Toriaportia

[rachel25]

A/N hope you enjoy this but please be nice this is my first Fanfic ever.


                                      Toriaportia
Prologue
It was the end of winter as the ship Bloodclaw slipped silently through the night towards the great and mystical island of Toriaportia. A silent figure stood smiling. The ocelot Warlord Slitthroat had arrived at last at his destination. After many a long season of sailing and plotting he had returned to take back the rightful place of rule that his ancestor had once held over the island of Toriaportia which had been stolen from them by a cursed racoon with his cursed allies many hundreds of seasons ago. But this time he would show no mercy to them as his horde of mink would lay siege to the island destroying every living creature in their path. As he called back to his mate Shataner his golden and black spotted fur shone in the moon light “we will conquer the island from the mountain side first”. Shataner smiled a wicked grin as their ships moved in on the island and as screams erupted from the small village at the foot of the mountain. “Revenge will be as sweet as honey. At last Toriaportia will be ours once more”.
                                          Book 1 “The Mountain Siege.” 
                                                CHAPTER 1
Stardown was tired, there was no other way of putting it. He had been training all day with the Nightshade Mountain squirrels and of course his older brother Moonshadow who all always seemed to be better than him at everything. Stardown was the youngest son of King Emoseth the racoon King of Wild Berry woods on the other side of the Island Toriaportia.His father had sent him and his brother here to train to be proper warrior princes instead of being lazy layabouts. So He sent them to Nightshade Mountain for two seasons. These two seasons had just happened to be autumn and Winter, the worst two seasons to spend on a Mountain. ”Hey Moon do ya want to go to the hot pools with me,” Stardown said. Moonshadow shook his head. “No, I'm going with some of the older lads to the Mess. See you later.” Stardown frowned. Moonshadow was a full two seasons older than him and never let him forget it by using words like older. Never mind he would go himself. The hot pools were the only relief to the inhabitants of the Mountain during the savage winter. The natural hot springs were near the top of the Mountain. He made his way up the narrow path that led to the pools. It had been a hard day being driven hard by what he called merciless old monsters A.K.A the Captains in charge of the recruits. He could not wait to go home to Wild Berry Court, his beloved castle home. Little did he know a mass invasion had been launched against Toriaportia only a few miles away from where he stood. He could see a few others who had decided to do the same as him; he waved to a passing young squirrel about his own age. He was small for his age and all over his fur was jet black, like all Toriaporian squirrels.  ”Hey Somb, have ya seen Lewa anywhere? “Said Stardown. Somb nodded, “yeah, she went down to the fort.” Stardown nodded his thanks before launching himself head first into the depths of the nearest pool, whose occupants were not too pleased.
“Hey, do you mind! It was quite peaceful before you came splashing in,” said one.
“Yeah, we were having a nice time” said another.
“Oh go and cry to the Sargent why don’t ya” Stardown sneered.
He then dived down as deep as he could before jumping out of the pool again. “Happy now?” He said before he grabbed one of their towels and walked off to where his tunic had been thrown before he jumped into the pool.  “Come on Somb, you can help me find Lewa.” Stardown shouted. Somb excused himself from a group of his friends he had been talking to while Stardown had been swimming. “OK Star, I’m coming.” They then set off down the narrow path together. “Why do you want to find Lewa?” Somb asked. Stardown shrugged. “She said she would show me something.” He winked mischeviously. “What do ya mean?” Somb asked again. “Oh something.” Stardown was giving nothing away “Maybe you would care to join us.” He said casually. “Oh no no way am I joining in with one of your ill thought pranks again. We were scrubbing barracks for weeks last time. No, I’m not helping. You two can go and get in trouble on your own.” Somb said angrily. “OK suit yourself.” Stardown said mockingly. “Oh all right I’ll come just make sure we don’t get caught.” Somb said heaving a huge sigh. Why did he go along with these stupid ideas? 
                                         CHAPTER 2
General Morca was the leader of Nightshade Mountain,and today he was in a surprisingly good mood. “Bendom, Bendom!” Shouted General Morca.
A young, handsome, but shy squirrel poked his head round the door. “Yes, sir?” He said timidly.
“Where are those two Princes. You know, Emoseth’s boys? Moonwado and Shinestone.” The General asked.
“Um their names are Moonshadow and Stardown sir, not Moonwado and Shinestone.” Bendom said quietly.” They're in……”
“Did I ask you their names? Well did I?” The Generals good mood had suddenly disappeared. The old squirrel stared hard at the younger one.
“No, sir. You didn’t. ”Bendom said staring at the floor.
The old General's heart softened. Bendom had been like a son to him since his Father had died fighting searats.
“Never mind about their names. Where are they? I’ve got a letter from their father here. Messenger just arrived.” 
Bendom thought for a moment.  “They might be down stairs or at the hot pools. Lots of the young recruits go there. Don’t worry, they shouldn’t be too hard to find. After all they are the only raccoons on the Mountain.”
The General nodded. “Yes, go and send someone to find them.” He then continued to look at some papers on his desk. Bendom smiled. Huh, he might as well be the only beast in the room. “It will be done General. ” He said before turning and leaving the room.
                                                    ****
Somb and Stardown had found Lewa in one of the sheds outside Fort Nightshade and, to Somb's horror, a pail of sour cream stolen from the kitchens. “What are you going to do with that?” He squeaked although he already knew the answer.
Stardown was giggling evily. So Lewa told him, “We’re going to drop this from the balcony into the officer’s mess hall.” She looked pleased with herself. “but why? All that’ll happen is we’ll all be caught and put to scrubbing barracks for a week.” Somb said scornfully. Stardown looked to the sky trying to find patience. “We’re aiming for Captain Worntin. He’s been on my case all week. So we’re going to pay him back.” Lewa gestured that they should get going. “Come on, if we don’t hurry he’ll have been and gone.” They then all made their way towards Fort Nightshade.   
                                                  *****
Bendom had quite a good idea where they’d be. The Mess Hall.  That’s where everyone was at this time. He made his way down the stairs towards The Mess  as everyone called it. He was passed by numerous recruits that were only a few seasons younger than himself. He wondered why he had been made a Captain at such a young age. Maybe it was because the General had been his father's friend before he died and it had been for him. Or it was that he had excelled himself in training. He had heard one of the Sergeants say that. He had just entered the Mess when he came upon Captain Worntin. “Hey, Worntin, have you seen either of those young racoons? Ya know, Emoseth’s boys?” Bendom asked. Captain Worntin did not like being called Worntin. He preferred Captain Worntin. Nor did he like being called Worntin by a creature half his own age. “No, I have not seen either of them. Why do you want to know?” He sniffed. He had a very clipped way of speaking and always seemed to be staring down his nose at you.  “Oh the General wants to see them in his office. That’s all.” Bendom said absentmindedly. He did not like Worntin; no one did. But he had just sighted Stardown up on the Balcony above the officer's mess hall. “Sorry can’t stay and chat, bye.” Bendom said quickly. Worntin watched him go.  "Huh, young uns these days, always in a hurry."
                                               ****
Somb knew he shouldn’t help but Stardown would then tell everyone that he had wimped out, again. Somb didn’t mind Stardown calling him a wimp. He didn’t even mind Lewa and the whole regiment calling him a wimp. But he didn’t like it when his father did. Yeah, he knew his father would probably never know about this. But his father had almost branded him with the name. He always was going on about how useless Somb was to everyone. He’d say, “Oh that boys such a coward. He'd run at the first sight of battle. No, he’ll never be a warrior, not that one.”
Those words had really struck home when he had heard his father talking to some of his friends. Maybe that’s why he had volunteered to join the Nightshade squirrels. He didn’t live on Mount Nightshade, no, he lived on a smaller Mountain called Blueheart. Ahh..... he missed his home so much.
He shook himself. Stardown was whispering something in his ear.
“Look, here come’s Captain Worntin. Get the pail ready.” Stardown said excitedly.  Captain Worntin walked right underneath them. They tipped the pail. The sour cream poured all over Captain Worntin but it also went all over General Morca. The General had come down from his office to talk with some of the Sergeants when the cream was tipped all over him. The General exploded with anger. He was shouting and screaming at everyone. Somb fainted right there and then, Lewa went pale with fear and Stardown could do nothing but make small unintelligible noises. They were dead.
                                              Chapter 3
Slitthroat the Warlord was content. He had mascaraed the inhabitants of the small Mountain village, but he hadn’t known that there were other villages nearby. The creatures living in those villages had escaped and he knew they would be back for revenge. But they’d bring all the other Toriaportians with them. But he would deal with that when the time came meanwhile he had learned the name of this small Mountain, Blueheart.  He didn’t like that name so he had renamed it Blackdeath. He was rather pleased with the name. The door to the room open and in walked Shataner, a violet cloak swirling about her.  Behind her walked a young ocelot of about eighteen seasons. He had pale blue eyes and long dark eyelashes. He was big and sturdy but very slow of the mark. Slitthroat had three offspring. One was the boy before him his name was Brask. Then there was Jigelnt a fiery young female with dark green eyes and a permit sneer. Then there was the youngest but defiantly the smartest, the fastest and the most deadly, Kiudos. Slitthroat was actually scared of Kiudos. He had Dead black eyes and was an expert with a bow and an assassins throwing knife.  Slitthroat also knew that Kiudos would slay him and his mother, Brother and sister without hesitation. In fact Slitthroat knew Kiudos would do this someday.
Shataner looked at Slitthroat sprawled on the bed. She curled her lip scornfully at the Warlord.
“So this is how you plan on taking Toriaportia. By laying around and getting our soldiers to do it for you. Huh some Warlord you turned out to be.” She said mockingly.
Slitthroat leapt up in anger shouting. “How dare you come sauntering in here insulting me? Now shut up before a cut you in to crow meat you useless lump of shark bait.”
   Brask tried to hide a giggle but Slitthroat never missed anything.
“You snivelling runt get out of here, go on before a cut you to pieces.” Slitthroat bellowed.
Shataner nodded to Brask before saying “We have something to show you oh mighty one.” She finished in a sarcastic tone.
Slitthroat glared at her but said nothing. “What is it then, it better be important for you to think it’s alright to come and disturb me when I’m thinking.”     
Shataner produced an arrow from under her cloak.
“Is that all? An arrow well if that’s all you wanted to show me then you can get out and stop disturbing me” Slitthroat sneered.
Shataner ignored him and said. “Do you not recognise this arrow?  Look closer.”
Slitthroat looked closer. It was a standard Toriaportian arrow. It was fletched with crow feathers and the arrow head was barbed and had small hooks so when it was fired into a beast it would be almost imposable to take out without tearing some flesh out as well.
“So it’s only an arrow. What’s so special about it?” Slitthroat said scornfully.
Shataner opened a pouch on her belt. “This was tied to it.”
It was a piece of birch bark paper on it was a message. “Well aren’t you going to read it?” Shataner Questioned mockingly. Slitthroat was no scholar Shataner of course knew this. Slitthroat glared at her “No I won’t, you can if it’s so important.” Slitthroat said angrily. Shataner sighed and began to read.
“You have slain a Toriaportian so that means you have become and enemy of us all and you must pay the price in blood. There is an old saying in Toriaportia which is   Blood must be paid for with Blood. That means that all who serve you must die. That means your sons, daughters, and all who work under your claw. Please prepare to pay the price. Evan if you try to run we will hunt you until you are all slain.”
                                            King Emoseth and allies.

Slitthroat was shaken by the words but he did not show it. “Ha what is this rubbish you bring me? Do you think a measly raccoon can defeat me? Slitthroat the Warlord, never , not in a million seasons.” He bellowed. Brask was sniggering. Slitthroat turned on him shouting. “You useless lump of crow meat you snot-nosed little nothing. Get out! Get out now!” He started throwing furniture at them. Shataner and Brask fled the room leaving the Warlord ranting and raving.
“He has not been himself since we came here.” Brask commented.
“You can learn to put a harness on that tongue of yours.” Shataner snapped.
Brask simply shrugged and walked away. “Suit yourself.” He called back over his shoulder.
From the shadows two dark eyes had witnessed the whole thing. Just like his father Kiudos never missed anything.
                                                  ****
Stardown was sitting in the General’s office. He went over the nights events for the sixth-hundredth time. After they had poured the sour cream over the General and Captain Worntin he had just sat there staring. The whole Mess Hall was in an uproar, everyone was shouting and staring. It had been Bendom who had restored order. He had been the one who sent two sturdy squirrels to take Stardown and his friends to the General’s office. He was the one who calmed the General and organised the clean-up of the Mess Hall.
Stardown knew he could have run so could Lewa but they didn’t because they both knew that they couldn’t run of and leave Somb who was still unconscious.
The General was sitting in his chair behind his desk staring at them. Somb was squirming and Lewa was looking at the floor as if it held some sort of interest. Captain Worntin was in the office as well staring hatred at the three culprits. Moonshadow was standing in the corner shaking his head in disbelief. 
“Now whose idea was this?” Bendom asked.
Lewa went even paler. Stardown knew it had been hers but he couldn’t let her get in trouble because of him, after all he had been the one who asked her to come up with a plan.
“It was me.” Stardown said boldly.
“Was it now?” Bendom said raising one eyebrow.
“Yes.” Was the replay.
“And how were you two involved.” Bendom asked gesturing to Lewa and Somb.
“I asked them to help.” Stardown said quickly.
“Did you now” Bendom said. He didn’t believe that Stardown was the mastermind. He could see how uncomfortable Lewa was and Somb was staring at the floor in shame.
“Well I guess I’ll have to take your word on it.” Bendom began.
“No! You shouldn’t take his word on it.” Captain Worntin bellowed at Bendom. “You should interrogate them until you find out the truth.” He continued.
“NO Worntin I won’t. I will deal with the situation my way.” Bendom said quietly but firmly.
Worntin turned a funny shad of purple before saying. “You will address me as Captain. Huh you will never be half the Captain I am you useless lump of shark bait you……”
“That is enough! All of you.” The General bellowed.
“Sorry Sir.” Bendom muttered.
The General turned to Worntin “And what about you?” He asked.
“Sorry Sir.” Worntin said with bad grace. 
“Now can we have a proper discussion?” Questioned The General.
“Yes Sir.” Came the replay.
“Good. Bendom I’m putting you in charge of these three.” The General gestured towards Stardown and his friends.
“But Sir I would be more than capable to deal with the situation.” Worntin said quickly.
“No no Bendom can manage.” The General said sternly.
“Come on you three. We can talk in my accommodations.” Bendom said.
“Ok we’re coming.” Somb said.
They followed Bendom when suddenly The General called sharply. “Not you Clarspoun.”
“My name is Stardown.” Stardown said between gritted teeth.
“Oh whatever.”  Was The General’s replay “I need to talk with you and your brother.” Here he gestured towards Moonshadow who was still standing in the corner. “I have an urgent message from King Emoseth.” The General said gravely.
“What is it?” Moonshadow said worriedly.
“If you’ll let me read it you’ll find out.” The General said angrily.
                “My sons a great evil has come to our lands and I am afraid you will have to come home even though your training is not complete. For only a few miles away from where you stand an invasion has been launched against Toriaportia. I will fill you in with the details when you return home. I have already sent The General a message concerning the issue.
                                                    King Emoseth.
                                                                                                                                                              Chapter 4
“When do we return home?” Moonshadow asked.
“Tomorrow morning.” The General said.
“But we didn’t even finish our training.” Moonshadow said sadly.
“Oh who cares we’re going home.” Stardown said joyfully.
“I care,” Moonshadow said quietly.
“That’s enough boys,” The General said before continuing. “Now go and pack your things I’ll assemble an escort, dismissed.” Moonshadow and Stardown left the room one depressed the other joyful.
“Captain Worntin, Captain Bendom your dismissed. Oh please send young Sibbl up here I have some very important news for him.”  The General said gravely. “Yes Sir I’ll send Somb up.” Bendom said. “But The General asked for Sibbl whoever he is.” Worntin said snifferly. “He meant Somb.” Bendom said trying not to lose his temper. “He forgets some of the newer recruits names sometimes.”
“Oh why didn’t you say that in the first place?” Worntin said rudely before walking of down the corridor.
                                       ****
Bendom found Somb in his room. “Somb,” He said quietly. “The General needs to see you in his office.” Bendom paused, “It’s important.” He said after a moment.
                                         ****           
Stardown was as happy as can be he was going home at last. Moonshadow on the other hand wasn’t so joyful he kept saying things like. “All this time we’ve been here and we’re not even finishing our training.” And his favourite thing to say was. “You’re in so much trouble when we get home Star.” He repeated this several times before Stardown throw a pillow at him. He shut up after that.
                                       ****
“Somb, I have so very distressing news for you.” The General said sadly.
“Your Father Corporal Tirentr has been….” The General took a deep breath before saying. “Has been….. Killed.”
Somb couldn’t believe what he was hearing.
“No he can’t be he just can’t be.” He stammered.
“I’m so sorry Somb.” The General said his face grave. “He was murdered when your home was attacked three days ago.”
“My mother and baby sister are they…” Somb began.
“Yes.” The General said his voice barely above a whisper.
“There’s something my scouts found in the wreckage.” He produced a beautiful sword from under his desk. Somb recognised the sword it was his father’s. He had been given it as a reward as had all the squirrels in his father’s regiment. It had a slim blade and silver handle with the Toriaportian symbol a flaming torch on it. The General handed the weapon over to Somb.
“There is no one else to inherit it Somb and I’m sure he’d have wanted you to have it.” The General said kindly. The old squirrel looked into the younger ones eyes and found only hate.
“Who killed my family?” Somb said a hint of steel in his voice.
“My scouts have told me it was an ocelot Warlord. He laid siege to Blueheart your home.” The General said angrily.
“Then I swear by this sword I will kill him.” Somb said sternly.
“Then I will put you on the list of those who are going to do battle with this Warlord, though I have had to call in help from Changmey.” The General said soberly. He was not about to get in the way of a Toriaportian and his revenge.
“Who’s Changmey?” Somb said confused.
                                        ****
Changmey was the chief of the tiila chipmunks. Her tribe lived on an Island just of the coast of Toriaportia. She had amber eyes and a quick and unruly tongue. Her fur was painted all over with plant dyes. 
“Naik, Yes, yes, me will help fight me like a good fight.” Changmey said in her quick and speedy language.
“Excellent.” The General said. We will attack as soon as Emoseth arrives.
                                                                                                                                                                    Chapter 5
It was the next morning and Stardown was existed. At last he was going home he must tell Somb and Lewa the good news. He couldn’t find Lewa anywhere until one of the other recruits told him she was on kitchen duty and it seemed no one knew where Somb was. Someone said Somb had been summoned up to The General’s office last night because something bad had happened but no one was sure. Never mind he would tell Lewa and Somb at breakfast. He didn’t see Somb at breakfast but he did see Lewa and he told her what he called the good news. She was pleased for him but was sad that he was going home because she wouldn’t see him again. Stardown saw the truth in her words and suddenly realised that the good news wasn’t so good after all. 
“You could come over to WildBerry Court ” Stardown suggested.
“Do you think that would be possible?” Lewa said hopefully.
  “I don’t see why not.” Stardown said with a shrug.
“Could Somb come to?” Lewa said all though she already knew the answer.
“Of course he can come!” Stardown said as if it was matter of fact and in a way it was.
“Good. That way we can all be together only it will be better because we won’t have to train.” Lewa said sounding very pleased.
“By the way have you seen Somb?” Stardown said quickly.
“No I thought he was with you. Actually I haven’t seen Somb since we were in The General’s office.” Lewa said a touch of worry in her voice.
“Maybe he’s up at the pools.” Lewa suggested.
“Yes! That’s the only explanation.” Stardown said jumping up.
“I’ll go and get him.” Stardown said walking towards the door.
“Ok I’ll wait for you here.” Lewa called after him but Stardown had already gone.
                                                 **** 
Stardown didn’t find Somb at the pools but he didn’t give up hope. Suddenly he remembered something. Somb’s favourite place when he had a problem was in a bunch of fur trees just above the pools. Stardown climbed the rocks up to the fur trees. When he reached the top he thought he saw a black bushy tail up on one of the branches.
“Somb!” Stardown called. There was no response “Somb I know your there.” Stardown shouted still there was no replay.  “Oh come on Somb please. I really need to tell you something!” Stardown shouted his temper rising.  “Somb if you don’t get out of that tree now so help me I will…..” Stardown thought for a moment.  “I’ll destroy your mum’s vase that you keep on your windowsill!” Stardown bellowed angrily.
“Don’t you dare?!?” A voice shouted from one of the trees.
“Try and stop me!” Stardown shouted back.
“Oh yeah, Fine I will!” Somb said jumping out of the tree right in front of Stardown.
“What do you want?” Somb said his voice was cold as ice. Stardown was taken aback the once gentle green eyes were now hard as rock and bored into him.
“I…. well was…. Ya know…. I was just….” Stardown stammered.
“Well what do you want or did you just come to annoy me?” Somb said scornfully.
“No I didn’t come to annoy you, I came to tell you I’m going home.” Stardown said feeling quit hurt by his friend’s words. He suddenly noticed the sword sheathed in Somb’s belt.
Where did you get that?” Stardown asked a bit annoyed that he didn’t have such a nice blade.
“None of your beeswax, why are you leaving? Gone and got yourself thrown out then.” Somb said a sneer in his voice.
“What? No…. What?” Stardown said his head spinning. What was wrong with Somb?
“I’ve not been thrown out my dad sent for me and Moon, because there’s going to be a war somewhere.” Stardown said at last.
“Yeah I know there’s going to be a war. I’m going to fight.” Somb said his voice choking up.
“What!?!” Stardown bellowed. “Why are you going?” He continued.
“Because their all dead, their all dead.” Somb said before climbing the tree and disappearing.
                                                 ****
Stardown thought about what Somb had said because their all dead, their all dead. His thoughts were interrupted when Moonshadow came over and shook him and said.
“Star, we need to go the escort is ready and waiting.”
“But I didn’t get to say g’bye to Somb. Well not properly.” Stardown protested.
“I’m sorry Star but we have to leave. Now go and get your things.” Moonshadow said and ruffled Stardown’s ears before leaving. Stardown sighed it looked like he wouldn’t be able to say goodbye to Somb after all.
                                                ****
On his way up stairs Stardown bumped into Lewa. He told her what happened she looked as confused as Stardown felt.
“What does he mean all dead?” She asked. Stardown simply shrugged. Suddenly they heard Moonshadow calling.
“Star, you better be ready. Come on we’re leaving.”
“I’m coming!” Stardown called down the stairs making a sorry got to go face at Lewa. She nodded her head and he ran up the stairs, went into his room and grabbed his things and raced down the stairs passing Lewa.
“Bye!” She called as he disappeared round the corner.
“Bye!” Came the replay.
                                               ****
Stardown looked back at Fort Nightshade . He knew he would miss it even though he was happy to be leaving.
                                             ****
Lewa was walking though The Mess when she saw a bunch of older squirrels gathered round the notice board.
“What’s up?” She asked.
“There’s been an invasion we’re looking to see who’s going to fight.” One said hopefully.
“Yeah! I really hope I’m picked.” Said another.
“Hey why’s that’s kid Somb’s name on the board?” A third said confussed.
“Where's this fight going to happen?” Lewa questioned.
“On Blueheart Mountain ” Said a fourth.
  Lewa thought she recognised the name but before she could question further a Sargent had come and taken away those who had been picked and the others went off to do other things.
                                              ****
Stardown loaded the last of his positions onto the little cart which was going to be pulled by four strong, sturdy squirrels. A small group on squirrels had come out to see them off. Stardown was sad to see that neither Lewa nor Somb had come to see him off. He looked over to where Moonshadow was saying goodbye to his friends. Actually one of them began to cry because he thought he might never see Moonshadow again. Stardown wouldn’t cry if he couldn’t see Moonshadow again. In fact he would rejoice but he did not mention this to Moonshadow.
“Ok boys time to go.” The leader of the convoy said to everyone. They began to walk down the steep path that led all the way down the mountain. But Stardown wouldn’t have called it a walk. No it was more of a slow run. As they came to a bend quit a way down the road Lewa came running out of the fort shouting and waving her arms about. Stardown couldn’t make out what she was saying so he just waved.
                                               ****   
Lewa stood at the top of the mountain looking in despair at the place where Stardown had disappeared around a corner. She had finery remembered where she had heard the name Blueheart. Blueheart was Somb’s home. She had to tell Stardown before he left. But she had been too late. She cursed herself silently. Why hadn’t she remembered before? She stared sadly at the place where Stardown had disappeared. Well she’d just have to go and see Somb.
                                                Chapter 6
Slitthroat looked out of the bedroom window at the piles of snow. Even though it was the beginning of spring the snow had not melted. He looked up at the clear blue sky and at the sun which offered no warmth. Suddenly the door opened and one of the mink captains walked in.
“Sah.” The Captain said in true military fashion.
“Yes, what is it?” Slitthroat growled. The mink captain swallowed nervously.
“My spies have just returned. They say the Toriaportians will attach soon.” The mink captain stood uncomfortably to attention.
“Humm, so they’re waiting for their friends from WildBerry Woods to turn up. Are they not?” Slitthroat said still looking out of the window.
“Yes, that’s what we think sah.” The mink captain said quietly.
“Very well.” Slitthroat began. “Set up defences around the mountain.” He ordered. “Let’s see them conquer a fully armed horde at the top of a mountain shall we.” He said evilly. He glanced over at the mink captain still standing to attention.
“You can go now.” He said looking straight at the mink.
“Yes, sah.” The mink captain said backing out of the door.
Once again two dark eyes had witnessed the whole thing. Kiudos smiled to himself, a battle at last, just the place for an accident to happen. His poor father would die on that battle field.     
****
Stardown was sprawled on a large bed back at WildBerry Court . He went back over the events that had happened on the journey. After leaving Fort Nightshade they had dog trotted down the mountainside. It had been hard going walking down the narrow, steep, path but they managed it. When they reached the bottom they walked next to a large river for about three days. Stardown had immediately noticed the change in climate. It was much warmer than it had been on the mountain. Stardown had been thrilled to see sunshine and to be able to feel it was wonderful. After traveling next to the river they then cut off into a heavily wooded area for about two days. When they left the woods they were on open ground close to the sea. Stardown thought it was the most wonderful, amazing, and beautiful, scene ever. The turquoise water lapping up onto the white sand as little sea crabs scuttled up and the beach past curling pink, gold and white speckled shells washed up by the sea. But they couldn’t stay there forever and after four days traveling next to the sea they crossed the border into WildBerry Wood . Stardown had looked about at the familiar scene. WildBerry Woods it was still the same as he had left it. With its tall handsome cedars, and fine red firs, and proud maples, and tall bushy Eastern Juniper, and its elegant Western White Pine, and the occasional Black Spruce, it was quite a place he had to admit. They walked at a fine old speed though the woodlands until they came to a large river. They walked in the opposite direction to the way the river was flowing and then in the distance they could see a stone path carved out of the rock leading up to a glorious building with a waterfall behind it and an ancient willow tree peeking out from behind the huge structure. WildBerry Court at last they had arrived .It was a grey building with tall towers and turrets. It had about a thousand windows and those were the ones on the front of the Castle. After they had hiked up the walkway the came towards two elaborate doors with thousands of small carvings on them, but the one that was in the centre was a flaming torch the same flaming torch that was on the sword Somb had had with him when Stardown came looking for him. It seemed like it was seasons ago when he was training with the Nightshade squirrels . Stardown rolled over on the bed. After arriving not much had happened. They had come in through the huge doors and were met by a whole army of servants and of course his and Moonshadow’s mother Queen Warose. At first Stardown was worried what if his mother had heard about how he had behaved. What would she do to him? He had tried to sneak off upstairs but it useless she had seen him almost at once.
“Oh there you are my son!” She had called so that everyone had turned looked at me.
“Yeah…. Hi.” Stardown had stammered.
“Where are you going off to in such a hurry?” She had questioned.
“Oh I was just going up to my room.” Stardown had said trying to walk backwards up the stairs. Then he had noticed that his father wasn’t there.
“Where’s dad?” Stardown had said puzzled.
“And where’s our escort gone?” Stardown had said after noticing that they were gone too.
  “They left as soon as you arrived. They have gone to help fight back in Nightshade territory.” Warose began.
“I would have gone but your father said it would be better if I stayed to welcome you.” She said sadly. Stardown had felt hurt that his father had left maybe never to return without saying goodbye. And as if to add insult to injury his mother had only stayed because his father had insisted.  Stardown got up of the bed and walked out of the door and down the stairs. It was time for dinner and Stardown was ready for it after his long journey living off meagre rations.
                                             ****

Stardown wolfed his food down. Oh he had missed it. Good old WildBerry Woodland food. Stardown ticked of the dishes he had missed as they were brought to him. He had missed the gooseberry pies, and the cheese and celery flans, and the raspberry wine, and the little chestnut and honey cakes. Moonshadow picked over his food. He was worried about what was going on back at Nightshade Mountain. Stardown was eyeing up Moonshadow’s plum and strawberry pudding.
“Um…… Moon do ya want that pud or can I have it?” Stardown said persuasively. Moonshadow simply pushed the pudding over and Stardown ate it with gusto.
“What is wrong Moonshadow?” Warose asked worriedly.
“Oh it’s nothing really…..” Moonshadow said playing with his fork as if it were an axe. Warose stared at him hard.
“You can’t fool me Moonshadow. Now come on what’s up?” Warose said firmly.
“Oh I’m just wondering what’s going on back at Nightshade Mountain.” Moonshadow said at last.
“Why? What do you care its only and old mountain it’s not going anywhere. I’m sure they’ll win hands down.” Stardown said with his mouth stuffed with flan.
“Yeah of course they will all that matters is that you get to stuff your face and not care about anyone but yourself. No wonder your friends didn’t come out to say goodbye when we left Nightshade Mountain.” Moonshadow sneered angrily. Stardown was surprised and hurt by his brother’s words. He was also angry because Moonshadow had brought up the fact that his friends hadn’t come and said goodbye.
“You just shut your face and never bring that up again.” Stardown almost screamed.
“Oh go and boil your head you useless worm.” Moonshadow said before storming out of the room and slamming the door behind him.
                                             ****
Slitthroat was pleased. The preparations for the coming battle had been made. He looked at the pile of boulders. He smiled (a rare sight in its self.) Stakes had been thrust into the ground. He looked at the deadly points. There was also a hidden pit full on sharp poles inside tipped with scorpion poison. They would do some damage. He turned his attention to his daughter who was striding towards him with an angry look on her face.
“Lord” Jigelnt began. Her voice was full of fiery. “Kiudos just told me to get lost and throw one of his stupid knifes at me and it took five of my whiskers off. Just cos I told him that I was in charge of regiment three, and four. But no he has to be in charge of not only one, and two, but three, and four, as well!” She practically screamed.
“What do you want me to do!?” Slitthroat said his voice full of rage.
“Tell him that since I’m older I should be in charge of more regiments than him. So there!” Jigelnt said her temper rising even higher.
“Oh of course I’ll tell him it’s not like I’ve got anything better to do.” Slitthroat said sarcastically.
“You’re useless. Do you hear me?!?! Useless that’s all you are. I hate you’re rotten guts you idijet.” Jigelnt screamed as she stroked off to find her mother, Shataner. Kiudos watch the whole thing from the foliage of a nearby tree. Never mind he would deal with Jigelnt when the time came. He would also take care of Brask. He could only be leader of the horde if the rest of his family were dead and that’s exactly what they’d be in a short while.
                                                            Chapter 7
   
           Somb stood to attention. He was in the parade ground with two score other Toriaportian squirrels and about three dozen Tiila chipmunks all of which were painted from tip to tail in plant dyes. Two days ago five score raccoons, skunks, groundhogs, and possums had turned up from WildBerry Woods. They had come marching up the mountain with King Emoseth out in the lead. They had immediately started to train with the Nightshade squirrels and the Tiila chipmunks. These were the creatures that were going to war with the ocelot Warlord. Somb was the youngest there and many of the older creatures had complained. General Morca had soon put a stop to it and Somb was left in peace.
“Now it’s time for blade practice” Bellowed a tall possum captain called Captain Vilea. She was the best blade expert Somb had ever seen. She could best any creature with a sabre, broadsword, dirk, long rapier, and fencing sword. Somb had been in owe of her abilities. But he had soon learned to take it in his stride. She taught him the proper way to use his sword which was actually called a schiavona. She was pleased at how fast he had learned to use his weapon correctly. Somb knew all sorts of new sword tricks that no other squirrel on Nightshade Mountain knew. Lewa had tried to talk to him a number of times but he would just walk away. Somb didn’t want to talk about the death of his family.
“Hey, Somb, are you coming for blade practice or not.” A tall, muscular, raccoon said mockingly. His name was Qukinj and he had been furious that Somb was training with him. As if it were some sort of insult that he be there. General Morca had spoken with the officer in charge of Qukinj’s regiment twice but Qukinj still targeted Somb anyway. Somb walk past Qukinj and ignored all the stupid names he called him.
“Hey ya big gurl are ya to scared to come and face me?” Qukinj called mocking after Somb. Somb didn’t replay he just kept on walking.
“To scared you’ll break ya daddy’s sword? Don’t worry he’ll never know I beat ya. He’s dead’a than a roasted duck.” Qukinj laughed. Somb stopped in his tracks. Somb didn’t know how Qukinj knew about his father’s death but he wouldn’t let him get away him laughing about it. Somb whirled around hatred in his eyes.
“So you think I’m scared do ya? Well here’s my answer. No, I’m not scared I just don’t want to shame my blade by fighting you with it. You good for nothing frogs bum, frizil faced piece of croaky. Your face puts gargoyles to shame you pudden head.” Somb shouted so everyone could hear. Qukinj was dumfounded.
“Why you little fly eater! Just wait till I get my paws on you.” Qukinj screamed. Suddenly he charged forward paws out stretched. Somb neatly sidestepped and landed a punch on the top of Qukinj’s head. Qukinj was dazed by the blow. But soon recovered and charged Somb again this time a little more careful. Qukinj struck out at Somb with a viscous upper cut. Somb dogged the blow again and struck out with a right hook which hit Qukinj right on the jaw. Somb then finished the fight by punching Qukinj on the left side of his head. Qukinj crumbled to the ground in a heap. Somb stepped over the fallen raccoon and set off to blade practice. For the first time ever he was happy he had been trained to box by Nightshade Mountain’s champion squirrel boxer.
                                                                       ****
Stardown lay on his bed looking up at the ceiling. He was still angry after the fight with Moonshadow. His first day back at WildBerry Court and he ends up arguing with Moonshadow great, just great. He wondered what Somb and Lewa were doing. He wondered if the battle had started yet. And if so who was winning? A loud knock at the door disturbed his thoughts. Stardown glanced over at the door. It was heavily barricaded by furniture.
“Who is it?” He called.
“It’s ya cousin, Flikom. Now let me in.” A voice called from the other side of the door. Stardown hopped up and scurried over to the door and began to clear the  doorway.   
                                                                                                   ****                                                     
When the doorway was cleared Flikom stepped in. He was a small slender raccoon with light grey eyes. Flikom was a quiet creature and didn’t like fighting or dying. Stardown thought maybe he was like this because his mother died when he was only four weeks old.
“So how was the training on the mountain?” Flikom asked casually.
“It was ok. How are things with you?” Stardown said with a shrug. His dark brown eyes shining.
“Oh you know the usual. Dads, fallen out with Grigafen, again. Ya know, Qukinj’s, dad.” Flikom said walking over to the tall window which stretched the whole length of the room. Stardown followed him over to the window.
“Again seriously? It seems like all they do at meetings is fight with each other. No wonder nothing gets done at those meetings.” Stardown sighed.   
“Yeah, I wish my dad would at least try and get along with Grigafen.” Flikom said sadly his grey eyes down cast and sorrowful.
“Oh never mind. Let’s forget about them for the time being and let me tell you all about Nightshade Mountain and everything me, and Moon did.” Stardown said cheerfully.
“Yeah that would be great!” Flikom said smiling.
                                              ****
“Now you lucky buckos salute for King Emoseth, and General Morca, and Madam Changmey.” A tough looking skunk captain shouted at the troops who were armed and ready for war. All present saluted the Toriaportian leaders smartly. King Emoseth came forward to give a speech to the brave warriors.
“My good Toriaportians it gives me great pride to see you all here. Here ready to fight for your home and the others who are weaker than you. You all shall go down in Toriaportian history for your bravery.” King Emoseth began. Cheers from the waiting troops filled the air.
“Now we must get down to sorting out the problem at hand. An Ocelot Warlord has invaded our land and murdered other Toriaportians. We must go and destroy every last one of them until all that is left is their blood and carcases.” The troops went wild.
“Toriaportia, Toriaportia, Toriaportia. Let the blood flow. Let us unite into one flame.” The squirrels, the groundhogs, the possums, the raccoons, and the skunks screamed. General Morca smiled.
“Wish I was younger so I could go with you.” He sighed.
“Naik, naik, don’t worry General I kill one for you.” Changmey said her blood beginning to rise.
“General don’t worry we will rid the world of these scum for you.” King Emoseth said determinedly.
“Thank you my friends. I can’t think of better warriors to send to do such a job.” General Morca said looking down at Bendom who was also going to fight.
(A/N if you would like to continue reading this story you'll just need to scroll down a bit because I ran out of room in this post thank you)

[Ungatt Trunn]

Looks promising!

[rachel25]

                                                  Chapter 8
                                                 "Oh we're marching off ta war
                                                   My dear will ya shed a wee tear for me
                                                     I'll coom' a marching back ta ye some day
                                                      But only if ya pray for me
                                                      Oh we're marching off ta war                                       
                                                       My grand blade will' a soar
                                                         Into the enemy lines   
                                                         But only if ya pray for me
                                                           Oh can ya feel ya blood arising
                                                             Oh can ya feel ya heart a 'beating
                                                              Now that we're marching off ta war
                                                               Let the memories of old warrior's calm our spirits
                                                               And let my blade be true
                                                               Oh I'll slain a vermin for ye my dear
                                                               But only if ya pray for me
                                                                Now that we're marching of ta war
                                                                Oh we're marching, marching of ta war."
The many ranks of Toriaportian warriors sang the marching song lustily. They had been marching for five days and by now their goal was visible. They could all see Blueheart Mountain in the not so far distance. Somb had stopped singing the moment he sighted his home. The feeling of hate and guilt had returned. He knew what he must do. He alone must kill the ocelot Warlord.  He looked at the other creatures who were his comrades. They were mostly young with a few exceptions. Somb had thought that he was the youngest creature who was fighting but then he had met Danny. He was a squirrel too. Somb had asked Danny why he had not seen him when he was training back on Nightshade Mountain. Danny had explained that he had not come from Nightshade Mountain. He was from Blueheart and had been there when the ocelot Warlord had attacked. He had only just escaped. He had decided to go to Nightshade Mountain to tell them what had happened. But one night when he traveling he saw firelight and had headed for it. The creatures around the fire were scouts for the Toriaportian army. That was when he had joined the Toriaportians. He had insisted on going back to fight and King Emoseth had agreed.
"I don't think I ever met you when I was on Blueheart." Somb said.
"That's because I lived much higher up the mountain than you did." Danny said cheerily.
"I like your blade." Somb said pointing at Danny's weapon which was in a scabbard on his back.
"Thanks." Danny replayed.
"What is it?" Somb asked a look of puzzlement on his face. Danny unsheathed the strange weapon and held it in his paws. It looked like some sort of weird axe. It was straight and razor sharp on one side. But on the other side it was shaped like a hammer.
"I call it a hanoxe." Danny said proudly. I designed it myself." He continued.
"Nice." Somb said noticing Danny's paws. They were like any other squirrel's paws except certain parts of them were coloured.
"What's wrong with ya paws?" Somb questioned. Danny quickly glanced at his paws and smiled.
"Every creature I meet asks me that question." He began. "I make colours out of different stones and mosses. Then I paint pictures with them. After adding water first." Danny explained. Somb looked at him with a weird expression on his face.
"That's nice." He said after a while. They marched on in silence for a while.
"So do ya have any family left?" Somb asked.
"No they were and killed. How about you?" Danny replayed.
"Mine are all dead as well." Somb sad looking straight ahead so Danny couldn't see the tears filling his eyes.
"It's a harsh world." Danny said looking at his footpaws.
"Company HHHHAAAAAALLLLLTTTTT!" Called one of the sergeants. "You will now turn to your left and walk seven paces until you reach the tall beech tree with the gooseberry bush at its base. That is where you will spend the night." The sergeant commanded.
                                                                     ****
It was evening after they had all eaten. Somb had unrolled his sleeping pack next to Danny's. They lay there in silence. That was until Qukinj stormed over and started shouting at Somb.
"You dirty little excuse for a warrior. How dare you knock me out and then just leave me in the middle of the parade ground." He bellowed. Danny looked at Somb and Somb did an I'll tell you later face back at him. He then sighed and stood up.
"What did you expect me to do? Get my medical kit out and start to bath your fat head in rose water. You started the situation and you shouldn't now complain that I knock you out I mean seriously get a grip." Somb shouted back.
"I'll get you back. Then I'll really make you suffer." Qukinj shouted angrily.
"Just talking to you makes me suffer. Geeze didn't ya mother ever teach you pronunciation." Somb said rolling his eyes. This last statement sent Qukinj into a real fit of rage. He started to clench his paws and stamp his footpaws and his face turned a rather nasty shade of blue.
"I'll kill you! You ya hear me! I'll ripe you to pieces." He screamed. By now a lot of the other creatures had all gathered round and had formed a ring around Somb and Qukinj. Some of the officers had also heard the noise and had come to investigate.
"Insult contest, insult contest, insult contest." They all shouted except for the officers.
"I'll agree to that!" Somb shouted. Everyone cheered and waited for the contest to begin.
"You're nothing but a slithering worm who can't tell the difference between his own face and his butt." Somb called mockingly. Qukinj then turned a funny shade of purple.
"Well you look like a wart on a fat frogs face!" Qukinj bellowed. Somb sighed heavily.
"My dear raccoon frogs don't have wart's that's toads." Somb said condescendingly.
"Well ya look like a toad." Qukinj said quickly. Somb simply Tut tuted.
"Tut, tut. My dear friend toads don't have bush tails or didn't you know that." This statement coursed laughter to erupt from the crowd.
"Ya walked right int'a that one." Someone from the crown called.  Qukinj face then turned red with rage.
"Your nothing but a pudden headed, fat nosed, thorn tailed, piece of fluff." He screamed. Creatures in the crowd had to hold their ears.
"Sorry I couldn't quiet hear you." Somb said cupping a paw round his ear.
"I hate you, I hate you, you fat face dimwit." Qukinj screamed. He was hopping with rage.
"What, you hate me? I thought you loved me." Somb said condescendingly.
"I......hate.....your rotten.......guts." Qukinj gasped. All the shouting had made his throat dry. He collapsed in heap on the ground. Somb patted his back.
"There, there. I think you should go and lie down." He said. Qukinj passed out.
"Well that's the end of that." Somb said dusting off his paws.
"OK you lot. That's enough you all better go to sleep now. It's going to be a long day tomorrow." King Emoseth said. Everyone turned and started. None of them had noticed the raccoon king.
"Yes sah." They all said before walking back to their sleeping packs.

[rachel25]

please If you like the story tell me what you think so far

[Romsca]

Great story so far! Keep writing!

[rachel25]

Thanks Romsca you've really filled me with confidence 

[rachel25]

Please if your reading this fanfic tell what you think pllleeeaaassseeeeee

[rachel25]

don't worry everyone I'm not going to keep them on Toriaportia forever  Get ready the battle is going to be in the next chapter 

[rachel25]

I just want to thank all the lovely people who have read this it always gives me pleasure reading what you have said about my story 

[rachel25]

Ok I've just decided to start a discussion topic for this so please don't post what you think on here any more and I'm going to start posting the chapters in their on post so all my readers can tell if there's a new chapter or not  I'm going to do the same with my other fanfition Sapphire Necklace  if you have any questions just PM me  here's a link enjoy