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It was now seven moons since the end of DeltaClan’s civil war. Darkstar had since stepped down as leader, choosing to take the name “Darkmeadow.” She lives a quiet life with her mate, Oatsun. However, with a lack of responsibilities the former leader becomes restless. She builds a habit of leaving camp for days at a time, exploring outside of DeltaClan's territory. Oatsun, though worried sick, understands that her mate needs the time alone.

On one of these excursions, Darkmeadow stumbles upon a kitten. Seeing the helpless thing all alone, she considers helping it find its mother. Upon discovering there is no mother to be found, she considers her other options. Darkmeadow considers that she and Oatsun had brought up the idea of starting a family (although adopting this kit would mean no more multiple days out of camp at a time. The kitten would need both of its mothers). After much thought, she decides to bring the kitten back to DeltaClan.

Oatsun although a little surprised, was delighted at the sight of the kitten (which they discover is named Rootkit). Both Oatsun and Darkmeadow loved their daughter dearly. And Darkmeadow became a full time nursery queen, finding her footing after being so unsure of how she would fit into the clan again.

When Rootkit showed signs of wanting to become a medicine cat, Darkmeadow fiercely advocated for her to be apprenticed under Bumbleheather. Her proud mothers watched as Rootpaw grew into a skilled healer. Darkmeadow and Oatsun were the first to congratulate her after she earned her full name, Rootmeadow, after the cat that found her.