The Cat Prince

The story follows the journey of Morris from birth to young adulthood.

                                                                                         Bert Last Name
                                                                     7451 West Circle NE
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                             Word count 4,868                              

                              title
Bert Haagenstad
         

Chapter One

          Born to Sabrina and Dark Star, Morris was one of the three kittens. On the first day after his eyes opened, he boldly went on his first adventure. His mother, Sabrina, along with his two sisters, Alexi and Jenni, were hiding at the edge of the straw bales, which wasn't far away. Sabrina, grabbing him by the scruff of the neck and carrying him back to their nest, may have saved him from falling over the edge. Arriving at the nest, Sabrina scolded Morris. That you cannot leave the nest alone, Morris, is what I have told you. There are many dangers out there." Morris replied. There is nothing I can't handle. With a stern look, Sabrina pushed Morris back next to his sleeping sisters. Morris lowered his head as Sabrina said, "I have to go hunting, do not leave the nest for any reason, you hear me?"


          Sabrina crawled to the opening, passing between the bales. Once in the open, Sabrina found a dead pigeon a foot away. Quickly, she looked around the inside of the haymow. Watching from high on a stack of bales, she found her mate, Dark Star. Each of them felt the absence of the other. If a primitive drive takes over, Dark Star might hurt their kittens. Until that drive stopped bothering him, they agreed to remain apart.
          Morris found it hard to reach the top of the opening the next morning. Sitting there, he watched the pigeons fly around above. After a couple of minutes, he felt odd, so he searched around above and below. He then spotted a different cat perched atop the high stack of bales. He had never seen another adult cat except his mother. The stranger looked much larger than Mother. Light through a high window made his shiny black coat glisten. And on his chest was a large white patch of fur. As Morris prepared to speak, Mother's sudden appearance interrupted him. Sabrina yelled, "Morris, get down in the nest immediately." Morris obeyed without question. Looking up, Sabrina saw Dark Star. They nodded their heads. After Dark Star disappeared, Sabrina ran down to the nest. Reaching her kitten, she found them playing together. She watched them for a while, sitting. Because the girls stayed hidden and Morris hadn't left the nest opening again, she felt the need to remind them about leaving the nest. Her decision was to overlook it. Lying down to feed her kittens, she rested.




          Later that night, Sabrina found another pigeon outside the opening. As she searched the area, she found the bright yellow glow of Dark Star's eyes watching her. Again, they both nodded. As Dark Star stood watch, Sabrina began eating.
          Morris followed his mother's instructions as the days went by. Growing bigger and stronger, he and his sisters played in the nests. One night, Morris woke up, and his mother was not in the nest. Because he was curious, he started climbing toward the opening. Reaching the end of the tunnel, he heard his mother's voice. Peeking out, he saw his mother and Dark Star sitting side by side, near the edge of the bales. Their heads were touching, and both of their tails were playfully twitching. Sabrina expressed, "Seeing your children soon and being together again as a true family, my love, is what awaits us."My dear, we have been apart for too long," Dark Star said, his voice gruff but also passionate. I look forward to meeting our children and getting to know them. "I'd like to hear about them." Sabrina giggled softly. Alexi and Jenni are remarkably close; they enjoy playing with each other. They are both sweet." "And Morris?" Dark Star asked with a smile. What is he like?" "Morris," Sabrina replied, laughing again, "not only looks like you, but acts like you too. Being bold and daring, he is even as stubborn as you are. "Stubborn?" Dark Star retorted. I'm not stubborn?" Sabrina said softly , "Okay, if you say so."
          What his mother said surprised Morris because she compared him to Dark Star. That Dark Star was his father came as the biggest surprise. Morris felt a sense of fear about knowing that, though the reason eluded him. Before he was discovered, Morris went back to the nest and quickly closed his eyes and pretended to be asleep. Returning to the nest, his mother appeared a few minutes later. Checking his sisters and then him, she curled up to rest.
          As more days went by, Morris thought about asking his mother about Dark Star. Asking about something forbidden would create suspicion, and he wouldn't know how to answer without incriminating himself. He learned from his mother that it was wrong to eavesdrop on others. Then, his mother came down into the nest. Her three children were seated in front of Sabrina. Smiling, she had green eyes that sparkled with excitement. "Today is a special day," Sabrina announced. You three will meet the rest of our clan, starting today. You will leave our nest to join the clan celebrating you and will become full members."
          Morris and his sisters, being so excited, jumped around and play-fought with each other. Their mother patiently waited for them to calm down, Sabrina asked, "Anyone here want to join me?" Because of that, they began to burst into jumping about again. Turning, Sabrina headed toward the opening and the celebration.
          Their mother led the three into a clearing in a grove of trees, a space not far from the barn of their birth. The outside world appeared so enormous. Along the way, their mother pointed out other things, like a house where giants supposedly lived, though none lived there anymore. Including the trees, they crossed a stream using a thing their mother called a bridge.
          Once they entered the clearing, they saw many cats of all colors and sizes. After Morris looked around, taking in all the new sights, a movement caught his eye. On a branch in a tall tree, he saw Dark Star sitting, observing the activities in the clearing. What Morris noticed was light reflecting something on Dark Star's head. He had Sabrina standing beside him. In a soft voice, she spoke. Staring at Dark Star, Morris inquired, "Do you know who that is?" Before Sabrina continued, he responded, "He is Dark Star". As the leader of our clan, he is our King.
          Dark Star began climbing down to the ground before approaching Sabrina and Morris. When he arrived, he said, "Lady Sabrina, welcome to the celebration. And who is this?" Sabrina bowed her head and replied. Dark Star, thank you. Morris is my son. > Smiling and bowing his head to Morris, Dark Star added, "Young Morris, I am pleased to meet you." After Morris was asked, "Do you know who I am?" he stared at him, then calmly said, "My father. Sabrina and Dark Star were both shocked by the answer. Although Sabrina started speaking, Dark Star held up his paw for silence. Sitting, Dark Star cocked his head and inquired, "What makes you think that?" Morris was in disbelief that he had spoken. Now he had to think fast. "Our markings are nearly identical," he responded. I can feel it too." Looking at Sabrina, Dark Star replied, "Lady Sabrina, you were right in your description of your son, our son," and Sabrina smiled and added. Morris, I am always surprised by you. On this day, you have exceeded all expectations.
          Having overheard the conversation, Alexi and Jenna came running. They stopped next to Morris. They were clearly excited. Sabrina stated. "This is Dark Star, this is King Dark Star, and girls, this is your father." The sisters asked without waiting. Smiling, Dark Star hugged his daughters and grinned at Sabrina, who smiled back.
          After a minute, Sabrina moved to sit beside Dark Star, then leaned against him. Morris joined the hugging. From around the clearing, cats were cheering, smiling, and joining the celebration of the family being together. For hours, the clearing was celebrated. The family talked and played until the children fell asleep, curled up between Sabrina and Dark Star. They stayed until it began getting dark. Sabrina announced. "Time to get these three back to the nest." Dark Star's response was, "What is stopping us from going back to our nest? It is now possible for us to stay together." Sabrina nodded, smiling. The children were woken up, and then they were led home. Back to the barn, and a stall on the ground floor. In the corner, they soon curled up together, having entered where fresh straw was.
          In the days that followed, Sabrina and Dark Star began training their children on the dangers of the outside world. Every day, they took off in different directions. One day, they went into the tall grass on the other side of the road to the empty house and barn. They followed the stream in the direction the water flowed for another day. They explored the house one day. Then one day, Dark Star sat his children down and told them about dangers. He said danger lurked in the skies as well. You might never see it coming, because birds could attack from above. Being picked up and carried away by eagles and hawks can easily happen to a kitten or adult cat, which will never be seen again. Naswoo, the king of the rats, and Barny, Naswoo's general, were the next danger Dark Star mentioned. Dark Star told them about the battles between the cat clan and the rat force. Because they hated each other, the pair swore to destroy each other. Dark Star couldn't remember when these battles began, as they started long ago. He noticed the fear in his children. "I think that's enough for today," Sabrina added. "It will be troublesome enough to get them to sleep."








































         

Chapter Two

          The morning came too early. With the exception of Morris, everyone was sleeping late. Being as quiet as possible, he went outside. The sun felt so welcoming; the warmth soaked into Morris's body. Morris heard a sound that came from the distance. It sounded as if the sound was approaching. Morris felt a vibration through the ground. The sound increased at the same rate as the vibration. It seemed to Morris to be coming from the road's direction. Eager to discover the source of the noise and shaking ground, Morris ran towards the road.
          Standing in the middle of the road, Morris continued to be excited about what he might discover. Soon, the noise was so loud that Morris moved to the side of the road. Suddenly, Morris saw a huge thing traveling on the road, towards him. Morris went into the grass so that he could hide. After Morris watched the thing pass him, it stopped at the house. To get closer to the thing, Morris moved quietly through the grass. As the ground stopped shaking, the noise ended. After a moment, the side moved, startling Morris as a large creature emerged from the bigger object. He realized that this creature matched the description he'd heard of a giant. Morris remained out of sight. Then two other giants appeared from around the other side of the noisy object. Their size was greater than the first. Fear took over and Morris began to shake. The two largest giants advanced towards the house; meanwhile, the other one stayed by the noisy object. Because he felt a little less scared, Morris moved along with the two giants. After moving to the house, they entered it. Moving closer, Morris was soon next to the outer wall. Morris was listening. So intent was he on understanding them that he missed the smaller giant approaching from behind. Before Morris could react, he felt the giant pick him up off the ground. Though Morris tried twisting, biting, and clawing, he couldn't get loose.
          It was a female voice that came from the giant when they spoke. Despite his fear, the voice was soft and sweet. As much as he fought against it, Morris found her voice soothing. The giantess hugged Morris, bringing him into her arms. Morris felt a sensation nearly as comforting as his mother's embrace. Morris felt the giant rub her cheek against him. Carrying Morris into the house, the giant entered where the other giants were. The giant said, "Mommy, I found this beautiful kitty." She called her the girl. "Lilly, that may be full of fleas or diseases." "He doesn't have fleas, Mommy," Lilly replied. I have decided to call him "Blackie".
          Remaining in Lilly's arms, Morris watched as other giants arrived and carried things into the house, entering different rooms. Sitting at a table, Lilly held him as she ate food. She fed Morris small portions of her food. Because it smelled really good, he accepted it.
          After she finished her food, Lilly carried Morris into a different room. After closing the door, Lilly set Morris on the floor. Morris rushed to the door, yet he couldn't fit through the opening. Then Morris saw the bright sunlight. After a jumping several times, Morris was at the window. He searched for an opening. When he saw his mother and father watching him from the tall grass. Seeing their faces, Morris understood the gravity of his error. Morris's eyes filled with tears as he wondered if he would ever see his family again.
          After Lilly put Morris on the bed next to her, he curled up next to her. He was unable to fall asleep. Because of his mistakes, he was separated from his family. When the morning came, Lilly woke up and hugged Morris. She carried him into the bigger room, the same room they occupied the previous night. A large giant was observed entering and exiting an open doorway, carrying items into the house. Taking a chance, Morris hissed as loudly as possible. Caught off guard, Lilly loosened her grip on Morris. With claws extended, Morrison turned and drew his paw across Lilly's hand. Lilly screamed, releasing Morris, and he moved the second he hit the floor. Within seconds, he was out the door and disappeared into the tall grass. Breathing heavily, Morris didn't stop until he was in the barn and back with his family. Everyone woke up when he arrived. Because they were so happy he was back, they all joined in a family hug. Morris was scolded by his mother and father for going out alone. They were frustrated that he had been sought by the giants, but amazed he was able to escape.
          In the days that followed, the children only left the nest with one of their parents. Their exploration continued in other areas surrounding the barn. Sabrina and Dark Star kept emphasizing the existence of numerous threats beyond the giants and the house.












         

Chapter Three

          Waking up on a sunny day with a light breeze, Morris was the first to stir. He saw that the rest were still asleep. He quietly left the stall and then the barn. He stood there, basking in the sun's warmth. I was trying to decide where to explore today. He believed firmly that he had enough maturity to decide for himself. He headed toward the tall grass across the road. Because the road held his curiosity, it would be his destination for tomorrow. He ran across the road and quickly entered the tall grass to hide from the danger above. Because the grass was wet with dew, he followed an existing path. Maybe next time he will follow his desire: forging his own path.
          Walking and walking, his peace was broken by a noise. Freezing, he attempted to locate the source. Listening carefully, he realized there were two sounds coming from two different directions. He hadn't been taught by his parents how to deal with this. The sounds became nearer. Although Morris lay as flat as he could, it didn't help much. Then he decided that making his own path now was a suitable time to start. Rising, he turned towards the tall grass on his left. Following his head, he forced his body through the blades. He got in far enough that he could conceal himself. Again, he froze and listened. Believing the grass might close behind him, he was thinking. Despite feeling like hours, he could discern the noises uniting. What he could hear was grudges exchanging words. Then the voices stopped, and he heard the noises were moving together away from where he had entered his path. When the noise faded completely, Morris retraced his steps to the main path. Looking in both directions and seeing no movement, he entered the path. He decided he had had enough exploration for one day. Running down the path, he headed toward the barn. As he turned a corner, he found himself face to face with two creatures. Coming to a complete stop, he looked back and forth from one creature to the other. He was filled with fear, knowing that these two were not cats. He turned quickly and ran the other way. Driven by fear, he could hear them closing in. His pace was so quick that he tripped on his feet. Turning, he saw the two creatures slowly walking toward him. Despite his efforts, his legs gave out. The creatures were moving closer.
          Suddenly, a crashing sound came from the side of the path. Appearing a second later, Dark Star stood between Morris and his pursuers. Ready to attack or ward off an attack, Dark Star stood tall, his feet set. Dark Star commented, "Naswoo, I see you are up to your old tricks. The act of attacking lone travelers. With a crude tone, Naswoo spoke, exposing his two oversized front teeth, one of which was broken halfway up. "What are you doing on my land, Dark Star? Dark Star gave a laugh. "Your land? No one has property. It's impossible for you to claim anything. Like all gatherers, you take what you want, with no concern for those you hurt. Naswoo hissed, "You are not my king; therefore, I neither serve you, nor care about your thoughts. Dark Star didn't give an inch, stating "Leave now, or we will take you down." He retorted, "You, along with your escort, are pathetic trash eaters and do not frighten me." Remember the last time we scrapped. You've lost one half of your front tooth. Finishing the job, I'll be glad to extract those teeth from that dilapidated head.
          Naswoo, stepping back, replied, "I would gladly show you who the true king is around here if I weren't late to join my pack." Because Dark Star moved forward rapidly, both rats quickly scattered. Dark Star laughed again, adding, "Naswoo, next time we will finish this, once and for all."
          Turning to his son, Dark Star questioned, "Young Morris, do you plan to die young?" Morris responded with a head shake and said, "No, father, I'm sorry." Moving closer, his father said to him, "Well, I'm sure your mother will have a few things to tell you. We've both been searching everywhere for you. We should return now, so your mother can further your education.
          When the two followed the path back to the road, they found Sabrina. Even being happy, she didn't seem pleased to see them. Sabrina's voice revealed a hint of tension as she spoke. "Return to our nest, Morris, immediately. You are not allowed to speak. Later, we will deal with this. In the meantime, you cannot leave the nest without your father or me. Understand?" Morris knew he was in deep trouble. After nodding, he went to the barn. Behind him, he could hear his parents speaking. His mother inquired as to his discovery location: "Where did you find him?" His father's reply was, "In the tall grass, on one of the paths. That there was more, Sabrina knew. "That is not all! "Tell me," Dark Star slowly said as he explained. "When I found him, he was with Naswoo and Barny." Sabrina's voice is sharp. - "Why was he injured?" Dark Star reported that they didn't get close to him, and he's fine. Like his father, the boy fears nothing." "We are not home yet," Sabrina scoffed. "I am going to show him fear." Dark Star broke the silence. "My dear, I understand your feelings, but he's been frightened enough today. We will talk to him together tomorrow, but relax until then, okay?" Sabrina scoffed once more, her reply being, "We'll see."
          Dark Star followed them into the nest. Knowing he deserved it, Morris sat waiting for his punishment. Sabrina went into the nest. After staring at Morris with a scruff, Sabrina began pacing back and forth in front of him and his sisters. Dark Star came in, sat down, and then waited to see what Sabrina would do. Pacing went on for her, then she stopped to glare briefly at Morris. Then she began pacing again. This pattern was repeated two more times by Sabrina, after which she left without a word.
          Dark Star waited until Sabrina was out of earshot and then said, "Son, you must be more careful." There will be times when your mother and I cannot step in. It was Naswoo's desire that you be gone forever. Think about the feelings of loss your mother, your sisters, and I would experience if you were gone. Morris lowered his head. I was wrong, Father, I know. I am aware that I made everyone anxious. I apologize. It's true that Mother is upset. Dark Star lay down and said, "Given that your mother and I take your safety seriously, listen to and remember the warnings and lessons we give you about the world. So, what can I do? The purpose of these stories isn't to frighten; instead, they are lessons for your protection. Our parents taught us these same lessons. There are honest truths behind them. Make sure to take them seriously. Listening, Morris replied with the expression on his face, "I see the value of the lessons, I will do better." Dark Star responded. "Okay, we will begin a new type of training tomorrow."
          With the arrival of the next morning, Dark Star initiated his children's training, instructing them in fighting and defensive moves. Watching, Sabrina also shared ideas that improved the options. While the two girls learned quickly, Morrison's learning was even faster. His determination was to learn everything possible. The learning pattern went on in this way every day. Morris quickly rose to become a challenger to his father.
          The family awoke one morning to Dark Star's announcement of a gathering in the clearing at noon. They used the morning to prepare before they had to leave. They took their time going to the clearing. When they were near the clearing, other cats greeted them by bowing to their king. As they entered the clearing, two females greeted them and placed Dark Star's crown on his head. After Dark Star lowered his head to receive the crown, he thanked the two for their help. It was a bustling clearing filled with activity. Remaining as a unit, they moved about the clearing. After they had made a full circle, Sabrina said, "Okay, you three go play, but don't leave the clearing without telling me or your father. Having agreed, the three went off in search of more fun.
          Later, two male cats approached with their heads bowed. One of the males reported. "Lookouts have messaged us that Naswoo and his force are planning to arrive at the clearing soon. Dark Star's reply was, "Get the word to everyone, tell them to go to their homes. All members who are battle-ready need to form a circle of defense in the middle of the clearing. Dark Star told Sabrina to retrieve their children and safeguard the nest from any attack.
          As many headed out, the clearing quickly shifted, with ten males remaining and forming a circle around their King. Having passed a few minutes, the circle readied itself for the rats that appeared from the trees on all sides. Dark Star noticed Naswoo in a stance of pride, next to Barney and his many rats. Leaving the circle, Dark Star went to face Naswoo. Having recognized Dark Star, Naswoo stepped forward to meet him.
          Back at the nest, Sabrina was having an issue keeping Morris from returning to the clearing. "Mother," Morris stated, "being nearly an adult, I have been trained by you and Father to protect myself, which was also intended to safeguard the clan. I belong beside my father." Sabrina stated, "Your father would have asked you to stay if he wanted you there." Morris responded, "Father and you are sworn to protect me. "It's possible that I ought to make the decision this time. Sitting back and watching wasn't why I did all that training." Sabrina's gaze met the eyes of Morris. Deep inside, she had the feeling that he was right. She replied, "Maybe that moment has come. Join your father, Morris, and be careful. Naswoo and his force engage in dirty fighting." Morris, after stepping forward to rub his face against hers, said, "Thank you, mother, I will be careful, and Father and I will return to you." Following that, Morris began to sprint back to the clearing.
          The battle started at the clearing. Because the odds were two to one. Still, the clan held onto their victory. Arriving, Morris saw teeth and claws slashing everywhere. Many rats lie dead or dying. To the side, a couple of cats were busy nursing their wounds. Looking for his father, Morris scanned the battlefield. Because he did not spot him, Morris called out. "Where are you, Father?" Morris waited, but there was no answer. "Father!" Morris exclaimed. "He went north after Naswoo," Morris heard from a clan member.
          It was a quick orientation for Morris. After finding North, he ran after Dark Star. After crashing through the trees, Morris crashed through the tall grass. Following that, he was able to hear the voice of his father. Morris's speed increased. Dark Star and Naswoo were facing each other, both prepared for a fight, when he rounded a bend in the path. Morris noticed that Barny Naswoo's General was approaching Dark Star stealthily from the rear. "Barny, turn and face me," Morris yelled, "unless you prefer to attack from behind." Hearing Morris, Dark Star realized he was trapped between Naswoo and Barny. Barny turned to face Morris, and he saw a young, unproven prince. With excitement showing in his beady eyes, he progresses toward Morrison, eager to add the prince to his extensive list of fallen opponents.
          Without waiting for Barny's attack, Morris made his move. He ran straight at him. Barny believed the princess would not try to show off again after this time. Morris leaped over Barny just as they were about to collide; with claws open on both front paws, Morris raked Barny's head and back almost to the base of his tail. Twitching and screaming in pain, Barny crumbled to the ground. His back was oriented toward his father when Morris landed. Screaming gave way to silence and immobility for Barny.
          Naswoo trembled with fear before Dark Star, as his trap had failed. Turning suddenly away from Dark Star. Moving away, Naswoo ran as fast as he could. Dark Star began to run at full speed, chasing Naswoo. Dark Star leaped over Naswoo landing several feet in front of him. Looking from side to side for an escape route, Naswoo froze. Not seeing one, Naswoo started stepping backwards. Having said nothing, Dark Star sliced Naswoo's throat as he charged. Naswoo couldn't speak; he grabbed his throat and fell to the ground.
          Together, Dark Star and Morris returned to the clearing. The battle was over. Only a few rats survived, and they had run off. Dark Star made sure to check on every clan member. Dark Star announced to warriors after a full accounting of the damage. We will welcome the true prince of our clan tomorrow. Let others know. Everyone is expected at high noon.
          The clan assembled at noon on the next day. Raising his paw, Dark Star asked for silence. So that everyone could hear, Dark Star's voice was loud and clear. "Those who are members of our beloved clan. I'm announcing today that my son, Morris, has the blood right, but blood is insufficient. In honoring his clan, his mother, and me, and indeed himself, he acted bravely. He has achieved all requirements to become the prince of the cat clan. Now introducing to you Morris the Cat Prince, as I crown my son!"


         

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