Mutt DLs - 3/17/24

Word Count: 8,103

Mutt makes sure to give it a bit before visiting Flurry. He brings gifts of soaked moss and fresh prey for the new mother and making sure she and the kits are well before he gives her space to rest, but not before mentioning he'll be nearby if she needs anything.

Mutt seeks out Icefire today. He brings a fresh a squirrel with him as he offers it for some of her time. There's something on his mind but he keeps pleasantries in the way for now, asking how she and her sons were doing.

Mutt's tired face relaxes a little as Icefire talks about her little family. He rumbles out about how that's good to hear and notes her slight shift in demeanor for later. In return he gives an awkward chuckle and glances off as he admits he's been better. There's a beat of silence as he asks her if she had any ideas for a good way to apologize to someone you care about? He's normally on top of this sort of thing, but he admits he's found himself at a loss lately.

Mutt's attentive as he listens to Icefire. Her second account feels more fitting for the situation, he thinks, grimacing internally at the mention of kittens. He thanks her, explaining that he had apologized but still felt a bigger gesture was necessary for the situation.

Mutt looks contemplative now with Icefire's advice in his head but is still in the present as he hums softly. No further help, he supposes, but he's always happy to sit and chat with a pretty lady, he offers with a good natured smile, shifting the conversation to a more casual tone.

With so many of the kittens having been made apprentices, Mutt decides to visit Flurry. He brings freshkill and some colorful leaves for her kits as he checks in on the young queen.

Mutt smiles as he sits nearby. He assures Flurry he's alright, he just wanted to make sure she was doing well with so many paws running around. It seemed he wasn't overly interested in discussing himself today either.

Mutt watches the kits play from afar. The usual fondness in his eye is dampened by a quiet somberness. Inevitably he gets up to go and search the territory again.

Mutt comes to camp soaked to the bone with a bluegill in his jaws. He first brings it to Flurry to see if she'd want it, uncertain if fish are to her tastes. He also wants to just check in on her and the kits.

Mutt chuckles at Flurry's remark, standing a few lengths away to avoid dripping on her or anyone else in the den. He jokes back about how he's always been dripping with good looks but this was getting a bit out of hand. He does take a moment to soften a little as he asks her how she's feeling.

Mutt nods in understanding, leaning in just enough to clearly hear Flurry speak. He admits his own kits had become apprentices in the spring, yet he'd still fussed over them like they were still drinking milk. He gives a fond chuckle at the memory before assuring Flurry her little ones would be alright, they were strong and smart and of course had the clan to watch out for them alongside herself.

Mutt delivers a bundle of yellow chrysanthemums to Carrotblaze's nest while she's out. He makes sure not to linger too long and ducks his head as he leaves the den. He just felt he needed to do something. Maybe it was selfish.

Mutt is sure to cheer for the new warriors but focuses on Flurry's kits. He sits by her side during the ceremony with his shoulder gently bumping hers and a gentle smile on his face. He let's her go to congratulate and greet on her own though, instead going to congratulate those of Honey's litter briefly.

Mutt worries his cheek at all the news. After briefly trying to get a glimpse into the herbalist's den from afar, he elects to keep busy and joins Icefire in repairing and reinforcing the camp.

With apprentices already in the herbalist's den, Mutt finds himself checking in more often with Nightjarpaw. He asks her earnestly to tell him if she starts to feel unwell with a tail across her shoulders.

Mutt grimaces at Stumpsnout's antics. He swipes fresh snow over the tom's back before growling at him to shut up. Rosestar isn't dead, she's just stepping down from leadership. He forces out a deep breath before getting up to leave camp and scour the borders again.

Normally Mutt would take the time to introduce himself to the new faces but he finds himself without the energy to spare. Besides, the two were already crowded. He shakes snow from his pelt as he leaves camp for what must be the third time that day.

Mutt's seen sparsely in camp. Most of his time is spent with Nightjarpaw or dropping off a catch before he's leaving again.

Mutt watches everything from afar with a sinking pit of dread in his stomach. He nearly follows after Carrotblaze but the sight of Shrikefrost returns him to his senses. Did he... do that? Even if just in part, the guilt floors him before he himself is making his way to the dip and away from the crowd discreetly as possible.

There's a flicker of something in Mutt's face at the rule adjustment: maybe annoyance, but he covers it quickly. He'd been clear about his intentions when he came, that hadn't changed. The patrol however, catches his attention as while moons ago he'd probably have avoided the risk, he now jumps up to volunteer. Some new ground might be what he needed, it was selfish, but that wouldn't stop him.

Mutt had half expected to be left alone as cats bid goodbyes. It makes his heart squeeze but he retains his stoicness until Flurry finds him. He gives her a bittersweet smile and gentle touch of his nose to her head. He bites back the reminder that he's always been destined to leave one day, and settles for assuring her he'd be alright, and asking that she take care of herself and her kits here. For his sake, if nothing else.

Mutt's expression softens further and he let's out a quiet rumble as thank you, but not to stress herself over it too much. He smoothes his tired face into something akin to a confident grin though as Parsleypaw speaks and thanks him, before replying that he best take care of his mama now lest he have to back track. The humor in his voice covers his heartache as Icefire comes over. He hopes he might find something out there, it's been a long time, and he thanks her for her support and friendship.

Mutt had lingered to the back of the group the entire journey home, he and his daughter leaned upon one another for the last stretch. He's certain his paws are numb but he doesn't stop moving, ushering himself and Brindlelake beyond the crowd because he can't stand the bitter pain in his heart at the sight of the clan's reuniting families.

Mutt nearly knocks into Flurry when she comes to him due to how low his head had been. Something shifts in his tired face as he regards her and he stumbles over his words: "I- I-" He should explain things, or introduce his daughter, but before he can do either he's crumbling and pressing his face into Flurry's familiar shoulder where his tears are already soaking through.

Mutt has left a trench in the wake of his pacing in a corner of camp. His head is low between his shoulders as his eyes watch the herbalist's den. Premeditated guilt sits thick on the back of his tongue as he waits for any news on Brindlelake's condition.

After a long hunt that had kept him away most of the morning, Mutt returns to camp with whatever he'd managed to catch. Upon spotting Flurry though, he quietly approaches with a mouse for her and takes a seat beside her. He hesitates before asking if she minded him grooming out her fur.

Mutt is quiet, and tired but goes through with cleaning up Flurry's pelt anyways, empathy roiling in his chest as she spoke of Bugpaw. He admits he hopes for the best for her son, before going quiet. He's grooming between her ears when she asks about Brindlelake, and he hesitates before explaining with a voice swelling with emotion that she was the last of his kits- the last of his family.

After having spent time tending to Flurry, when they part for the ceremony he asks her to give his congratulations to Moonlily before his attention turns to Nightjarsquall. Both pride and guilt swell in his chest and he hesitates for just a moment before breaking stride across camp to her side where he apologizes to Robinflame before scooping his former apprentice into a tight hug.

Mutt can't help the sharp breath that leaves him, as though coming up for air after a long period underwater, at the returned hug. There's a part of him that wants to hold on when they part but he chokes it down and offers Nightjarsquall a tight but genuine smile before glancing to Robinflame. He'd leave the two of them to talk for now but, when Nightjarsquall was up for it he'd like to spend some time with her.

Mutt's ears swivel in Icefire's direction, though instinct drove him to offer her a smile, he wasn't certain if what twitched on his maw was even notable enough to be called anything. So he settled for accepting her invite with a gruff, "I'd like that,". He'd been planning to go out anyways, so who was he to turn down her offer.

Mutt is bringing fresh prey to Brindlelake. His movements are slow and he looks as tired as he feels. Either way, after a short conversation and a press of his nose to his daughter's head, he's fast to get busy again around camp.

Mutt looks vaguely more put together then he has the past few moons. It's not much, but it's notable, as he goes to find Nightjarsquall to see if she might want to hunt with him.

Mutt is standing at the mouth of the warriors den with fresh prey. He looks as though he keeps making to step in but stops himself. Eventually, he turns away.

Mutt twitches his whiskers and glances briefly at the den over his shoulder before shaking his head. "No,", he replies, "Just - trying to decide who to bring this too," he covers , gesturing to the prey he carried. Though he does pause to eye Barleywhisker's burr covered pelt before asking if he needed help getting them out.

He appreciates the tom not pressing the matter, and at Barleywhisker's acceptance of his offer to help seems to relax a little. He nods his head to a corner of camp and leads the way. Mutt does chuckle a little at the russet warriors comment though, and admits that he's certain he'd given his ma a plenty of fits over the things he'd bring home in his fur when he was younger.

Mutt cracks a smile and huffs out a laugh. "Didn't get called a ram growin' up for nothin'," he drawls, taking a moment to jokingly flex before leaning over to whisper to Barleywhisker, "Nevermind the fact that was mostly 'cause Doghart thought I was stupid and stubborn."

Mutt finally makes a visit to the burial grounds himself. He brings small bundles of wild flowers to leave at Sparkpelt, Bugpaw and Morningpaw's graves, but he ends his visit, laying by Hazelfang in silent company.

Mutt seems conflicted at the news, but if addressed makes certain to offer a tight smile. Eventually, he hefts himself onto his paws though and makes his way out of camp for a brisk walk.

Mutt is quick to offer his paws to Icefire's endeavors. He casts a quick look to the new bunch of kits but otherwise elects to leave them be to settle in as he follows behind the white warrior.

Mutt gives a hum of acknowledgement to Riot as he joins them, but when the tom doesn't seem to pay him much mind elects to focus most of his attention on Icefire. He makes sure to ask how she and her kits are doing, apologizing for not having been around more since he'd gotten back, but otherwise seems content to settle into idle chatter.

Mutt quietly watches the chaos around camp unfold. There's a spark of life in his tired eyes but he doesn't linger long enough to let it catch. Rather he seeks out someone's company to go herb gathering with him.

Mutt perks up as Shrikefrost joins him. He rumbles out a greeting to the other tom and is fast to accommodate him. He asks how he's been settling back in since they'd gotten back.

Mutt hums in acknowledgement of Shrikefrost's response, but falters and goes quiet when the question was returned. There's a distant look in his eye as he mulls over the question. He supposed this was home now. "Yes, but," he pauses, eyes flickering around as if looking for something or someone, "It could be better."

Mutt has been leaving gifts in Carrotblaze's nest lately. Varying from feathers and fresh kill to flowers and sweet smelling but othereise useless herbs. He makes certain she's not around when he leaves them though. His father's cowardice still runs in his veins he supposes.

Mutt is tugging the knots formed from a recent swim out of his fur when Icefire finds him. He tiredly greets her with as friendly of a chirp as he can offer.

Mutt lets out a surprised chuff at her question, tugging a little too harshly at his chest fur. He whips his head around to look at the white molly with eyes squinted, as though trying to parse something out of her. "What're you talkin' 'bout?" he'd ask, ears flicking this way and that, though there is a flicker of amusement in his eyes, "Soundin' like some young filly with nothin' better to do."

Mutt's eyes widen briefly at Icefire's response, but his mood seems to quickly shift as he turns his head away from her, ears pressing back. He chews over his words, unable to find the right ones, "She ain't- I should'a-" He lets out a frustrated sigh at himself and lets his shoulders drop almost defeatedly.

Mutt is quiet for a long time before he finally chances a glance at Icefire, as though trying to read her. "'M not so sure there's much to talk about. She'd be right to not want much to do with me." It isn't a "no".

Mutt lets out a bittersweet laugh at that. "After the way I left things? She'd be right to want nothin' to do with me," He shifts his weight to properly face Icefire now, stretching his hind legs out to the side.

Mutt's brow furrows a little at Icefire's reply, gaze flickering across camp briefly before returning to her. He's biting his tongue, reflecting upon their last real conversation. "Because she asked for it to be this way. Just friends," he debates sharing more, about why that had come to be, but refrains for now.

Mutt wants to say something about how the worst that could happen was she decides she really doesn't want anything to do with him, but he holds his tongue for now. His ears flutter briefly and he let's out a long sigh. "I reckon you make a mighty fine point."

Mutt goes to find Nightjarsquall after the ceremony, wanting to invite his former apprentice on a walk. They could hunt or forage if she liked, he just missed her and all the new apprentices has him nostalgic.

Mutt purrs softly at Nightjarsquall's bump and assures her he always had time for her, but hopefully things would be more settled from now on. As they head out he makes sure to ask her how she's been, and if there was anything interesting he'd missed out on.

Mutt isn't too hard to find, watching his daughter's current interaction from afar before his attention is taken by Flurry. He offers her a smile, and a drawled out agreeance. When he gets to his paws he takes a long stretch before sidling up next to her and asking if there was anything in particular she was hoping to catch.

Mutt makes certain to congratulate Icefire, though he's a little more flat as he turns to Riot. He's still rather uncertain about the ginger tom, but elects not to ruin his friend's day so settles for a passive aggressive glance before smiling and leaving the two.

Mutt looks for Nightjarsquall, Flurry and Brindlelake or any combination there-of to invite out on a hunt.

Mutt perks his ears at the news. While he wasn't especially close with the little queen, he recalls brief interactions with her in the past and makes a point to congratulate Smallfern  and drop off some feathers and fluff to line her nest with before leaving her to her closer friends and family.

After hearing about her tumble with one of the new arrivals through the grapevine, Mutt trots across camp to Nightjarsquall's side to check on her.

Mutt offers Nightjarsquall a small bump of his shoulder before affirming he just wanted to make sure she was alright after yesterday. Not that he doubted her skills by any means, it simply put his mind at ease to see her well.

Mutt makes time to stop by Nightjarsquall and Flurry each at having heard their names called. He presses his nose to the top of both molly's heads while congratulating them. He also gives a small chuckle as he affirms that it seems they'll have their paws full each.

At the news of Shrikefrost and Pumpkinstem's departure, Mutt seeks out Carrotblaze. He sits nearby and lays his tail across her's.

Mutt gives a soft sigh and leans back against Carrotblaze in turn. He assures her she has nothing to thank him for. This was the least he could do.

Mutt returns to camp after a hunt. He makes certain to do his rounds, checking in on each of his girls before settling in with Carrotblaze.

Mutt pads to Nightjarsquall's side during the ceremony. When it's over, he gives her a grin and pulls her in to affectionately ruffle her fur with a loud, rumbling purr. All the while telling her how good a job she'd done.

Mutt brings Carrotblaze a collection of flowers from his outing that day. He'd spent some time picking the arrangement for her and presents it with an affectionate nuzzle.

Mutt sends off Strawberry with well wishes and good luck. He adds in some advice for her travels before sending her off with a small affectionate bump of the head.

This time around, there's no questioning in Mutt's gaze as he rather eagerly touches noses with Basilpaw. It'd be good to have someone other then Brindlelake to keep his paws busy again. He chuffs affectionately at Flurry and thanks her with a bump of his head. The older warrior then urges Basilpaw to pick his spot in the apprentice's den quickly, they could head out into the territory after.

Mutt thanks Nightjarsquall as well with a touch of his nose to her forehead. From there, however, Basilpaw has his attention. He chuckles and ruffles the apprentice's head fur as he leads the two of them out of camp. "Hold on to that enthusiasm, kid, you're gonna need it."

Mutt means to visit Icefire in the nursery today but upon finding her asleep settles for letting her rest while leaving the various nest softeners he'd brought as a gift by her.

Mutt watches Basilpaw and Bulrushpaw's game from a distance. He visibly winces at the crack of their heads meeting but upon seeing them both bounce back to it elects not to intervene for now.

Mutt hadn't missed the altercation between Basilpaw and Milkweedshade. He gives a long sigh through his nose and catches the other warrior's eye as she pads out of camp with his apprentice in tow, and considers joining them before electing to send them off with a silent nod. Perhaps training with Vipershadow's more resolute daughter would do Basilpaw some good. In the meantime, he notices Fogbellow's approach and stands to meet the leader half-way.

Mutt returns Fogbellow's gesture with a low rumble that nearly sounds like a greeting. He doesn't seem particularly surprised by the large tom's request and gives a nod of his head. "I reckon you could have my ear as Iong as you need it."

Mutt had kept a careful eye on Slatekit since they'd brought him back to camp. The older tom stifles a chuckle at the sight of the kit's tumble before getting up to check on him.

Mutt flashes a grin as Slatekit bounces over. "Howdy," he rumbles back. "You doin' alright, son? Need a bite to eat or anything?"

Mutt lays with Carrotblaze as the weather gets colder. He's wrapped his tail around her and resting his head across her shoulders.

Mutt's ears press flat at the news of Parsleypounce's passing. His throat is tight and eyes misty but he pushes it down as he crosses camp to Flurry's side, draping his tail across her shoulders.

Mutt spots Basilpaw as he steps out of the warriors' den. He waves over his apprentice, already with a good inkling of what was on his mind. He offers the options to join one of the search patrols or to go searching on their own, so long as Basilpaw promised to stay close.

Mutt nods his head and ushers Basilpaw along with him. Upon spotting Flurry up and about on a similar mission, he trots up and asks if she minded if they joined her in searching.

Mutt brings Carrotblaze a fresh squirrel to share. He cuddles up with her joking about how nice it was to have such a pretty young molly to hold him in this weather.

Mutt just grins, purring as she pushes at his face. He just presses back in, wrapping his paws around her to tug her into a tight embrace. "Young and dashing? You can't be talkin' about this ole scoundrel now."

Mutt was returning from a patrol when Milkweedshade would find him. He's not too surprised by her questioning. Basilpaw was doing better, though there was certainly still plenty to improve on, he relays with an affirming nod.

There's an audible oof as weight comes down onto Mutt's back. He catches himself on his forepaws but his hind legs give out beneath him. When he gets his bearings and whips his head around to find Basilpaw, he narrows his eyes before grinning. He flops to his side and rolls onto his back on top of his apprentice, feigning a complaint about being unable to get up now.

Mutt winces some at the scream, but just rumbles and sinks more of his weight atop Basilpaw when he starts squirming. He's mindful enough to not completely crush the apprentice at least. "Tough talk for a flat cat," he teases.

Mutt listens attentively to Nightjarsquall with his head resting on Carrotblaze's shoulders. He can't help but grin to himself at her enthusiasm. He's purring so loud it's almost hard to hear her.

Mutt's returning from a patrol when he spots Basilpaw about. He arches a brow at his apprentice's mood, remarking that he looked 'tickled pink' before asking what was on his mind.

It's a bit of a struggle to keep up and Basilpaw's energy on stirs up a distant memory of Brindlelake's apprenticeship, but Mutt does his best to stay focused. He hooks a paw around the young cat's back in a tight return of the hug and lets out a rumbling laugh. "I'm glad you and your folks are doing good, but if you're plannin' to beat me at anything you better be putting in the work." At the mention of a 'cute girl', Mutt follows Basilpaw's eyes across camp before giving a rumbling sound of approval and sweeping him up with a teasing reminder he'd better be on his best behavior then.

"In your dream, punk," Mutt laughs, purring loudly as Basilpaw starts to contemplate his future name. "Maybe Basilbark or Basilhound instead," he offers, mischief sparking in his eyes. "Or maybe Basiltrouble!" he take the moment to wrangle his apprentice into a headlock for a noogie.

Mutt is still purring like thunder when Flurry and Vipershadow's congratulations find him. His tail swishes happily behind him as he promises to relay it back to Carrotblaze before he's sweeping Flurry up into a hug. Once he has a moment he hurries off to find Brindlelake.

Mutt sees Basilpaw wandering around with a stick. His whiskers twitch before he quietly strides up behind his apprentice to ask what he's doing.

Mutt's eyes shift to Basilpaw after all the commotion. He frowns, a hardness in his expression. "Hopefully not," he replies finally, "But stay on your guard."

Mutt had been meaning to go and find Carrotblaze with everything going on, but he's intercepted by Basilpaw. Initially, he was going to ask why Bitterpaw wasn't asking herself but as his eyes land on the young cat his expression softens and he gives a small nod. He flicks his tail against Basilpaw's shoulder before padding over to the other apprentice, gently urging her to follow him out of camp with a rumbling: "C'mon, darlin'."

Mutt isn't hard to find. He'd just finished changing out Carrotblaze's moss when he spotted Basilpaw. He takes note of the apprentice's expression and calls over to him, they could talk while he disposed of the old moss outside of camp.

Mutt listens closely to Basilpaw's grievances, and his jaw tightens a little as he considers his response, disdain rising in him again at the sound of Juncostorm's name with the apprentices again. "There are differences when everyone involved in a scrap are willing participants. Doesn't make it right though, especially when ones a warrior. Have you spoken about it with Fogstar or Smokeshine yet?"

Mutt's ears press back but before Basilpaw can get too far he calls after him. "You're allowed to defend yourself and others, remember that. Don't go picking fights, but keep in mind not all cats bend to words." He shakes out his pelt, and hopes his apprentice remembers to keep his head before making a note to find time to speak with Fogstar or Smokeshine.

Mutt had been trying to enjoy a few moments of peace in the cold snow, but then there was a weight crashing into his side. At this point he doesn't really have to do any guessing as to who's responsible. He rolls onto his back but drags Basilpaw with him, locking his paws around his apprentice in a tight hug, tail wagging and sending snow flying.

Mutt's whiskers twitch and he holds for a moment longer before releasing Basilpaw with a grunt. "This 'old man' could beat you with one paw tied up," he chuffs, blue eyes shining with amusement. "Almost a warrior or not, you've got a lotta work ahead of you if you're ever gonna outfox me."

Mutt's decided to busy himself with fretting over Carrotblaze if only to spoil her. He's in the middle of fluffing up her nest with fresh moss and some flowers he'd gathered from the early season blooms. He's asking if she's comfortable enough or if there's anything she'd like to eat.

Mutt assured Carrotblaze that he enjoyed himself a plenty taking care of her. He nuzzles the top of her head however and remarks that he'll relent if she insists. He doesn't want to smother her after all.

Mutt purrs loudly at the head bump. He returns it by rubbing his cheek to Carrotblaze's. In that case, he muses as he settles in next to her, he'll spend his time right here with the loveliest lady he knows.

Mutt is loud and clear as he shouts Basilflame's new name amidst the others. He's grinning and lets out a loud laugh as he calls an "Atta boy!" from the crowd. Pride simmers in the old tom's chest but he stands by to let his former apprentice mingle with his family and friends.

Mutt weaves through the gathered when he hears the news. His heart aches as he joins Flurry's side, pressing the top of his head against her shoulder and laying his tail across her back in silent comfort.

After tending to Carrotblaze, Mutt goes to check on Flurry. He gently bumps his head with her's in a greeting.

Mutt makes certain to be there if Carrotblaze needs him. He dips his head respectfully to Pearwhisper and Mudfang alike. He drapes his tail across Carrotblaze's shoulders.

Mutt makes sure to find the time to visit with Basilflame he brings fresh prey and water with a stern direction for the tom to eat something. He visits for a bit before gently pressing his nose to the top of his former apprentice's head, and then he's off looking for one of his daughters.

Mutt was poised over Carrotblaze's body for hours, his face pressed into her neck and body wracked with heavy breaths. Phantom smoke fills his lungs again, and he can't bring himself to look up for fear of seeing his mother's eyes or Bluetalon's singed pelt, or spirits' forbid the faces of his children. He only budges when he must, eyes red and lungs aching with every need to sob or howl that he bites down on the way to bury his love and their future.

Mutt had made himself present to be with Flurry for a brief period, but after that he had returned to the lakeside where he had been spending much of his time since Carrotblaze's burial. Though his eyes are on the horizon, his eyes still shift when hobbled pawsteps near him. His head turns to find Basilflame and the elder warrior just looks exhausted even as he rasps out something about how his former apprentice should be resting and getting better.

Mutt lets out a heavy sigh as Basilflame leans into him. The tom tucks his former apprentice under one of his arms and holds him close in turn, mindful still of his injury. "Ain't nothin' as important as you gettin' better," he replies, though he's not sending Basilflame on his way either. He appreciates the company.

Mutt manages a smile himself at the sound of Basilflame's voice, and he rasps his tongue soothingly between the younger warrior's ears. "She coulda done better then me, but I'll be forever grateful she saw somethin' to love in this old dog. Even if it didn't end how we wanted." He takes a deep breath and rests his head atop, Basilflame's, a few stray tears slipping down his cheek fur.

Mutt moves through camp with equal parts ease and distance. His mind is elsewhere as he weaves through his clanmates and once again heads for the lakeside.

Basilflame isn't quite quick enough to escape Mutt's attention. The older tom hefts himself to his paws and is fast on his former apprentice's heels. He knocks shoulders with the younger tom and invites himself along, lifting a questioning brow over saying anything.

Mutt can't bring himself to be too interested in the new arrival, focus instead on his daughter as she bounds off again. He bites back the urge to call after her but knows better by now. She'd need time too. For now, he let's out a sigh and pecks away at the slim picking of prey she'd brought him.

Mutt doesn't seem surprised by Flurry's company. He leans over and rubs his head against her's. He's quiet but nudges some of the prey towards her as an invitation to share. The tom takes some time to groom between her ears, attempting to soothe himself and her, it would seem.

Mutt forces himself to his feet as news travels. His pace is quick with every step as he comes to Flurry's side, a few tears already slipping down his muzzle even as he wraps one arm around his daughter.

Despite Fogstar's words, Mutt's been out in the territory since a concern was raised, scouring for a sign of Basilflame. He looks haggard, and the feelings from the day he'd been separated from his children come seeping back in as though time hadn't passed at all. The old warrior doesn't return til well into the night, and when he does he certainly isn't sleeping.

Mutt sits alone at the edge of the territory. He's still, just listening, blue eyes scanning for any sign of familiar orange fur on the horizon

Mutt turns his head at the sound of another's voice, his tired eyes setting on Marigoldbloom's form. Almost immediately, he assures her he'll be alright. There's a pause, before he adds that he'll be out here for a while.

Mutt regards Marigoldbloom closely for a few long moments before letting a small smile cross his maw. "Thank you," he rumbles, shoulder gently bumping her's before he's returning to scouring the distance.

Mutt doesn't miss a beat in joining Marigoldbloom and Gooseberry, even though it hasn't been that long since he returned to camp last. He offers a tight smile to them both.

Mutt can feel his age as he gets up again, but he pushes through it. The old warrior has set a routine it seems for searching the territory. Not exactly a new habit.

Mutt takes a break from his near incessant searching to be with a familiar face for a bit. He seeks out Flurry or Nightjarsquall when he can't seem to find Brindlelake around.

Mutt waits just long enough for most of the visitor's to clear before striding over to Basilflame. He's silent, brow heavy and expression hard to read as he regards his former apprentice for a long moment. Just when it seems like he's going to open his mouth to lecture Basilflame, the old warrior lets out a sigh and slumps forward, pressing his face into the younger tom's shoulder and pulling him close with a paw.

Mutt holds tight to Basilflame for several long moments, soaking in the fact that the tom was home. "Don't you ever do that to me again, boy," he rasps out, "I've only got so many great journeys left in me."

For the first time in a while, Mutt has settled down to rest. He's found a sunny spot to warm his fur in for a morning doze.

Mutt's bolted out of a dead sleep at Basilflame's antics, blinking groggily as he collects his bearings. His instincts aren't any duller though as he assesses the situation and rasps his tongue soothingly across his former apprentice's head with something muttered that's probably an assurance. He makes room for Basilflame as he settles back in.

As soon as he heard, Mutt was sitting outside of the nursery. Even as things calm down and visitors are welcomed in, however, he still sits, seeming hesitant despite wanting to give Icefire and Riot his best wishes on their litter.

Mutt makes certain to spend some time with Nightjarsquall if she's up for it, finally stepping foot into the nursery for the first time in a long time. He doesn't ask any prying questions, just grooms down her fur and asks how she's feeling or if she needs anything.

Mutt stayed near as long as Nightjarsquall wanted him too. He purrs loudly, smiling softly at the large litter now at her belly, eyes crinkled at the corner. He rumbles gently how proud he was of his daughter, and about how beautiful her little ones were.

Mutt can't help but chuckle at the squirming and squalling kittens. He lends a paw and gently noses them off top of each other and to Nightjarsquall's belly. He's sure they'll be piled up again in no time, but it gives them a chance at least.

Mutt was back on the hunt. Despite Fogstar's decision to dissipate any search parties, the old warrior has taken it upon himself to scour the territory where Wolfspirit's and Flurry's trail ended. He returns late in the evening, looking tired but with a bundle of feathers for Nightjarsquall and her kittens' nest.

Mutt had been on his way out of camp to search for the missing again, but then Fogstar is calling a meeting and he finds himself obligated to stay just a few moments longer. Though weary, his head lifts at the sound of Basilflame's name being called and he lets out a small rumble. The old tom's eyes meet his former apprentice's from across camp and he offers the orange tom a smile and dip of his head.

Mutt visits Nightjarsquall and her kits again, bringing a pawful of sweet berries for them. He looks tired but offers to groom out his daughter's fur, if she'd like.

Mutt smiles fondly at Leafkit and Clickkit both. He ruffles the former's fur affectionately as he explains how berries are gathered and found. He manages a chuckle at the exclamation however, and stoops down to be on the kittens' level. "I'm sure you and your littermates will outgrow me soon enough, darl'."

Mutt let's out a good natured chuckle at Pikakit's enthusiasm. The tom purrs louder then he had in days. "Oh, I'm sure, pumpkin. You lot'll be twice my size in no time."

Mutt wants to muster a smile for the good news amidst all the dreary but can't help the pang in his heart. The old tom sits quietly with a deep sigh, eyes closed as he feels the warmth of the sun on his flank, thinking of Carrotblaze.

Mutt's eyes flutter open at the touch of Leafkit's small paws, and almost immediately the warrior's graying muzzle widens into a smile. "I'd love to, sweatpea," he crouches down to her level with a loud rumbling purr. "You gotta promise to take it easy on this old man though."

The tabby stifles an amused chuckle at Leafkit's tumble, and covers it with a clearing of his throat. Mutt gives the kitten a small boost with his nose to get her back onto her feet. And then he promptly rolls onto his back with a soft thud, a large paw reaching out to bat gently and encourage her game. "Come on then and show me what you've got."

After spending his day scouring the territory again, Mutt returns to camp late in the evening to bring fresh moss and feathers to Nightjarsquall's nest. He's quiet, and almost hesitant as he asks if she minded him spending the night in the nursery with her and her little ones.

Mutt grins, turning his paws over to cradle Gentiankit's overturned body in them and grinning ear to ear. "What a spry little thing," he chuckles. "We've got a natural born acrobat on our paws."

Mutt's tail wags behind him, thumping the ground rhythmically. Nothing like his grandkitd to make him feel young again. "Being spry means you're active and lively. Energetic and youthful," he explains as best he can, using a bit if stray moss to gently wipe up Gentiankit's sneeze with practiced ease.

Mutt had made a routine for himself as of late. Scouring the territory throughout the day and returning in the evening with whatever he'd managed to scrounge together for his family and Nightjarsquall's. It doesn't take his senses long at all to lock onto Leafkit's mood and the old warrior is swooping in gently with a nuzzle to the top of her head as he looks her over and asking what's wrong.

Mutt takes the time to settle in and coax Leafkit safely against him with a large paw, though he frowns as she speaks, brow furrowing. "Well now, shame on him, cause that ain't quite right at all, pumpkin. Death can be a scary thing but it don't mean the ones we love are truly gone. Y'see they linger and stay with us as long as we remember them and talk about them and hold them close in our hearts, even if we can't see 'em outright, they'll always be there."

Mutt purrs and wraps himself safely around Leafkit as she rambles herself to sleep. His own weariness catches up to him after being on his paws so much lately and he finds himself soon following in his granddaughter's steps.

Mutt stops by the ever growing nursery again. He dips his head and rumbles a greeting to Icefire as he carefully steps and maneuvers around any stray kittens until he's at Nightjarsquall's side again.

Mutt grins as Leafkit hurries over and ducks his head to gently bump against hers in greeting. "Well, I certainly missed you too, pumpkin," he purrs with a happy twitch of his whiskers. "You and your siblings been behavin' for your mama today?"

Mutt's brow furrows initially at Leafkit's explanation, but as his eyes lift and he founds Pikakit alive and well he concludes no real harm had been done and relaxes his features again. "Well, I'm glad everyone's okay, it sure sounds like it's been a busy day. I sure hope you're not too tuckered out to spend some time with your ol' pawpaw."

Mutt chuckles, reaching out a paw to ruffle the fur on top of Leafkit's head. "Ain't no bigger then 'forever', it's just a way of sayin' tired," he remarks. "But if you're up for it, how about a story or two then? Or maybe a game?"

Mutt's not so distracted by his granddaughter to miss the new arrival leaving a gift and turning tail. His expression sobers into something serious and scrutinizing before he's making a decision to call after the young herbalist, recognizing him despite not knowing him well. "Now, hold on, son! Should at least stick around for a proper 'thank you', yeah?"

Mutt nods his head, regarding Cohoshstem closely before relaxing his expression some as he pats the ground nearby in a quiet invitation. "Awfully thoughtful," the elder warrior drawls. "Sure that's the only reasonin'?" While not accusatory, he's not going to any great lengths to hide that he's prying.

Thankfully for Leafkit, rescue isn't far away. Mutt's trudging back into camp after a long and unsuccessful hunting trip when he spots his granddaughter wandering curious circles by the nursery. He pads over and gently scoops her up with a big paw as he asks what sort of adventure she was on.

Mutt makes an interested rumble as Leafkit begins to recite her story. He takes a moment to scoot them both out of the way of the den entrance before fully settling down and locking in to her tale. Though his whiskers twitch with amusement, the old tom is certain to commend the kitten on her bravery in the face of almost losing her tail.

Mutt is deeply engaged in Leafkit's story but as Fireflykit sets the clamber up to his back, he quietly sweeps his tail around for added support. Just in case. Once he's in place however, he turns his head to flash a grin to his grandson, remarking on his blooming mountain climbing skills.

Mutt purrs, his whiskers twitching in amusement as he notes Fireflykit's exertion. "I don't think you'd break a sweat, son," the tom quips with a decisive nod.

Mutt is resting his sore and achy paws in the fresh frost and ice. His eyes are closed and curled ears drooping just so as he appreciates the weather and noises of camp during a short break.

Mutt nearly jumps out of his skin as Pikakit is squealing over to him. His heart hammers in his ribs but steadily he gets his bearings and can't help but smile at his granddaughter. "It's snow and ice, darlin'. It's water that froze where it got cold enough."

Mutt purrs loudly and coils his tail around Pikakit as she cuddles up next to him. "I s'pose it could if there was enough of it that melted at the same time, but usually it'll gradually melt so the ground has time to soak it up. You might find some puddles here and there still, though."

The news of Flurry and Wolfspirit's return along with their litter doesn't evade Mutt. His eyes go wide and track the family as they enter camp but Pikakit grasping his tail keeps him rooted to his spot. He swallows down the immense relief in his system with a promise to visit them after they've had some rest and turns his attention to his granddaughter, nuzzling her with a smile as he promises to play with her in the snow.

Mutt was returning from another unsuccessful hunt, though he'd managed to collect some things for Flurry and Wolfspirit's litter while he was out at least. He's slow moving on sore legs however after playing all day with Pikakit prior, so it's no hard task for Cohoshstem to spot and intercept the old tom's path. He rumbles a small sound of greeting to the young herbalist, his curled ears flicking with interest as he asks what he's up to.

Mutt's whiskers twitch as he nods his head, not bothering to remark that he already knew about the exchange between Cohoshstem and Leafkit. Instead, he once again thanks the herbalist for the gift, and after a moment his stern expression softens at the edges. He remarks that no two kits are going to be the same and you're liable to still get things wrong even with all the pointers in the world, but a big help is learning how to tell if a kitten needs a gentler paw or not. And that was something Mutt could help with, at least based off of his own experiences.

Mutt pads over to knock his shoulder against Basilflame's when he notices his former apprentice searching about. The old warrior rumbles as he asks how the red tom was holding up.

Mutt's brow furrows as he does his best to keep up with Basilflame's signing. He bumps his nose against Basilflame's forehead and remarks that he could always come hunker down with the old warrior, though he was getting a bit big to fit under him. At his question about his past, however, Mutt can't help but chuckle. A sound that was equal parts fond and sad as he sweeps up his apprentice with his tail as he prepares to regale the red tom with stories from his time protecting the barncats of his home and acting as a daylight warrior for CreekClan.

Mutt spots Flurry and meets her half way. She barely gets a word out before he's scooping her up into a hug, eyes a little watery as he holds her close. He apologizes for not having been by yet as he'd been busy with Nightjarsquall's litter and wanted to make certain Flurry had the time to rest. When he finally steps back, it's slow and hesitant before he manages a tired smile, telling Flurry how he was so happy she was safe and home, and how he'd been out looking every day for her and Wolfspirit.

Mutt takes the time to visit the nursery with a pawful of feathers he's scavenged. He stops by Nightjarsquall's nest to bump heads and check in on her and her litter before making it around to Flurry as well.

Mutt's as attentive as ever, keeping his steps slow and deliberate as Clickkit weaves between his paws and chatters. He chuckles and grins as he relays that he's certain she and her littermates will all have the best mentors. As he listens, he glances back occasionally to playfully flick his tail tip against Leafkit's nose or ear tips every now and then.

Mutt has made himself easy to find for the sake of his grandkits. When Pikakit comes cuddling up, he's immediately coiling his tail around her and turning himself to give her his full attention. He muses that he's probably too old to mentor anyone else these days, but she could always get his daughter possibly, though be assures her whoever she ends up with will be well-fit for her, he's sure. As far as what being a warrior is like, he's happy to ramble about his fond experiences as a warrior if she'd like to hear it.