Graystripe's Vow/Chapter 23

"I know that the path of a warrior isn't always easy. You don't always get what you want when you want it, but you keep on going, helping others along the way if you can. You know, Graystripe, you don't need any cat, living or dead, to tell you what feels right in your gut. If you think it over for yourself, the right answer will be clear."

— Barley giving advice to Graystripe in Graystripe's Vow, page 306

Graystripe's Vow
Chapter number:	23 (of 31)
Page numbers:	300-307
Point of View:	Graystripe
Chronology

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

Chapter Number: 23 (of 31)

Page Numbers: 300-307

Chapter description

Graystripe and Barley continue recalling stories of their youth, and Gremlin's life. After many stories, the two cats try to sleep again, but Fang grows impatient. The gray tomcat grows restless as they spend more time not saving the other cats trapped in the Twoleg nest. He tells Graystripe and Barley the horrors of how his mother died. Fang explains how the Twoleg treated her and their friends very well at first, until the Twoleg became sick. He mentions that Gremlin had developed a cough that grew progressively worse. After bringing in multiple new cats, and food-less days, Fang tells the two old friend that all of his help was in vain. He describes the horrible conditions they were left in, including rotting Twoleg food, dirty boxes, and locked rooms. Graystripe is shocked at the conditions these cats were living in. Fang informs them that Gremlin told him to find a way out and to help the other cats escape. He doubts his ability to actually save his friends without the ThunderClan warrior's help. He explains the severity of waiting to free the endangered cats, and Graystripe suggests staying in the barn one more night to plan the raid. Fang denies the idea, but Graystripe convinces him to stay. The elder compares his attitude to his late mother, and mentions to him that Gremlin would be proud.

Graystripe and Barley wake early for their new mission. Barley wonders why Graystripe is already awake, and the gray tom explains his grievances toward his Clan and StarClan. The two cats bicker about their age and their mobility. Barley reminds Graystripe of the commitment and honor warriors hold as he doubts his worth as a ThunderClan cat. Graystripe listens to his old friend's words, and remembers Millie coming to him in a dream. He feels clearer about his destiny lying ahead.

Characters

Major

• Graystripe
• Barley

Minor

• Monkeystar
• Clawwhistle

Mentioned

• Ravenpaw
• Gremlin
• Petunia
• Two unnamed kits
• Millie