Description
Word Count : 567
Today was the day, the culmination of Dragonflypaw's tireless efforts. For many moons, he had painstakingly gathered flowers and attempted to propagate them in a very specific spot. It had taken years, much to his disappointment, to shape the area to his liking. Moving flowers wasn't an easy task, and ensuring they survived each leaf-bare was even harder, a delicate dance with fate. But this green-leaf, luck had finally favored him.
Between the Red Valley and The Rapids, there now sprawled a blossoming hill, adorned with labrador tea blooms, poppies, cloudberries, forget-me-nots, willows, and a host of other flora lovingly nurtured by Dragonflypaw's own paws. He could scarcely take a step without treading upon one of the vibrant blossoms, yet this was a necessary sacrifice to add the final touches.
With the reluctant assistance of Spiderbite, Dragonflypaw rolled a flagstone along the hill's side, minimizing any damage as they ascended to the summit. There, amidst the sweet-smelling blossoms, the stone found its resting place, marking the crowning achievement of Dragonflypaw's arduous work.
Now, the most formidable challenge lay ahead.
When Spiderbite inquired about Dragonflypaw's choice for his assessment, initial indecision plagued the young cat. What endeavor was truly worthy of his final trial? Nothing less than the sleek and nimble otter would suffice, he decided. Spiderbite deemed him mad, while Dragonflypaw accused his mentor of lacking inspiration and faith.
His assessment became an enduring saga, prolonged by countless failed attempts to capture one of the elusive otters. Many days found him soaked and battered, navigating the treacherous river's currents, even earning himself a scar on his lip. Spiderbite suggested surrender, believing Dragonflypaw should consider a more attainable goal.
But Dragonflypaw wasn't one to surrender easily. He had invested countless moons in his flower hill, and he wouldn't abandon his dream of becoming a warrior, driven by the desire to make his mothers proud. With renewed determination, he continued his pursuit of the river otters, meticulously studying their habits and movements.
Each day brought new trials, but Dragonflypaw persevered. He constructed a makeshift hideout by the riverbank, biding his time for the otters to frolic in the water. He watched their graceful dives and playful antics, striving to predict their every move. It was a test of patience and resilience, a testament to his unyielding spirit.
As moons waxed and waned, Dragonflypaw's skills matured. He honed his agility, became a proficient swimmer, and developed a profound understanding of otter behavior. Finally, the day arrived when Dragonflypaw successfully captured an otter. It marked a triumphant moment, a testament to his unwavering dedication. Returning to Spiderbite, he held the otter in his grasp, his soaked fur bearing witness to his victory.
Spiderbite, initially skeptical, couldn't hide his astonishment. Dragonflypaw had chosen a seemingly insurmountable challenge and emerged victorious, a testament to his determination and resilience. With that accomplishment, he informed Fogbellow that Dragonflypaw had passed his assessment and was now prepared to take on the mantle of a warrior.
Yet, one final heartfelt task remained. On an early morning, Dragonflypaw sought out his birthmother, Houndsnarl, and led her to the hill he had painstakingly crafted in her honor. At the peak rested the flagstone, beneath which lay the river otter he had captured, placed with the utmost care. His true and deepest desire as a warrior was to bring joy to his mother's heart, for as long as he could.
Character & Artwork is owned by me BongoBasal - Dragonflypaw