Graystripe's Vow/Chapter 10

"Graystripe, I promise you, I knew nothing about this. [...] Or, no - I heard one or two rumors, but there are always rumors, especially now that the Clan is unsettled, with our leader away. I pay no attention, and Ashfur has never spoken to me directly. Is there any other cat on this?"

— Dustpelt to Graystripe in Graystripe's Vow, page 145

Graystripe's Vow
Chapter number:	10 (of 31)
Page numbers:	143-150
Point of View:	Graystripe
Chronology

Below contains in-depth information for chapter ten of Graystripe's Vow. If you are looking for a shorter summary of the entire book, please check the main article.

Chapter Number: 10 (of 31)

Page Numbers: 143-150

Chapter description

Graystripe painfully limps back to camp, and crouches behind an oak root only to scent ThunderClan. Ashfur, Thornclaw and Cloudtail emerge from the ferns, and Graystripe inquires about Brambleclaw and Dustpelt's whereabouts. Thornclaw responds they are back at camp, and that he fears Dustpelt is dead. Graystripe grimly states that he might be soon if they don't do something about BloodClan.

Graystripe is escorted back to camp with his Clanmates and approaches the medicine cat den. Dustpelt appears, and Graystripe asks if he is okay. Dustpelt replies that he is, and states that he is going to his nest to sleep. Graystripe informs Dustpelt that Ashfur is supporting the tabby warrior as deputy. Dustpelt whips around and stares at him in astonishment. In that moment, Graystripe knows Dustpelt hasn't been informed about this.

Graystripe explains that Ashfur told him he ought to appoint Dustpelt deputy, and that that might even extend to the time when Firestar will be back. Dustpelt isn't easily confused, but he seems appalled, scuffling his claws in the ground. Dustpelt states that he didn't know about this, and that there are always rumors during these times. He asks if any other cat is supporting Ashfur. Graystripe replies that Cloudtail is, and maybe Mousefur too.

Dustpelt admits that he does want to be deputy, his mouth twisting with sardonic amusement. However, he states that that is not going to happen with Firestar as leader. He says that he will confront them if they are going to do something mouse-brained. But if it comes to claws, he will back Graystripe. Dustpelt continues, saying that Graystripe can leave Ashfur to him, and that it is time he learned that he can't always have his way. Graystripe gratefully heads to the medicine cat den, relieved he won't have to worry about rebellions in ThunderClan.

Cinderpelt treats Longtail quickly, then asks where it hurts. Graystripe flops down, replying that everywhere hurts, and starts cleaning his fur. Cinderpelt fetches herbs, and determines that it is only a few scratches and bruises. She concludes that Graystripe should stay in the medicine cat den for a couple more days, and begins to treat Graystripe's wounds with marigold.

Graystripe begins hearing voices, and recognizes Ashfur's voice. Ashfur states it that worries him how the BloodClan cats had thrashed Graystripe and an entire patrol, and again states that perhaps Graystripe isn't up to leading them. Brambleclaw protests that it was eight against three. Cloudtail wonders where Firestar is, and Mousefur suggests Firestar went to become a kittypet again.

Cinderpelt hears Graystripe's growl, and asks if she hurt him. Graystripe answers that she hasn't, his gaze traveling outside. Cinderpelt says that perhaps he needs to refocus his attention. Graystripe thinks that Cinderpelt is right, and glances around the den. Longtail shifts around in his nest, wishing he wasn't blind. Graystripe reassures the tom that he will get better soon. Graystripe softly says to Cinderpelt that he can't stay here for long; he has to lead ThunderClan against their enemies.

The next morning, rain is pouring down. Graystripe rises to his paws, confirming to Cinderpelt that he is fine. In fact, he feels as though all the foxes in the forest have been tearing at him. He drags himself across the camp, arriving at the warriors' den. He announces that they are going to deal with BloodClan, and the warriors stir, groaning. Cloudtail asks if he is joking.

Graystripe just waits until the Clan wakes fully, then states that they will survey their entire territory. He orders two patrols to patrol the borders. Graystripe tells Dustpelt and Brambleclaw to guard the camp. Graystripe tries to seem strong and decisive, although in reality he is chilled at the thought of BloodClan. He that states he will lead one patrol, and the other will be led by Ashfur.

Clouds cover the sky, and light fades as the sun sets. Graystripe peers into the forest, scenting the air. The patrols had searched the forest for BloodClan, but there was no trace of them. The rain had stopped, only to start up again. Mousefur suggests that they head back to camp. Thornclaw agrees, and Graystripe is surprised, but spots Sootpaw who looks worn out and miserable. Mousefur and Cloudtail urge him to agree, the latter stating that they can't search the forest forever. Graystripe knows they are right, and leads the way back to camp. He glances back over his shoulder, aware that the rogues could be anywhere. He grimly thinks that he will never let them take ThunderClan.

Characters

Major

• Graystripe

Minor

• Thornclaw
• Ashfur
• Cloudtail
• Brambleclaw
• Dustpelt
• Mousefur
• Longtail
• Cinderpelt
• Sootpaw

Mentioned

• Firestar