Stagkit’s Apprentice Ceremomy

“All cats old enough to catch their own prey, gather beneath the willow branch for a Clan meeting!” Ivybrook’s voice rang out across the clearing, monotonous tone hiding any hints of emotion that her voice might have otherwise given away. Another youngling would be joining the apprentice den today, adding to the Clan’s slowly but surely rising numbers. Leaf-bare had done a number on the Clan, but they held strong.

Stagkit padded out of the nursery, his head held high and his tail up to match. It was finally time for him to become an apprentice! The proud, growing tom couldn't wait to step into the next stage of his life, with no doubt the strongest and most brave mentor to guide him.

Nodding when the headstrong kit stepped out of the nursery, Ivybrook began. "Stagkit, please step forward." When she saw his small paws step further toward the willow branch, she continued. "Stagkit, you have reached the age of six moons and are ready to become an apprentice. From this day onward until you receive your warrior name, you will be known as Stagpaw. Your mentor will be Addershade. I am confident in his abilities to train you to be the best warrior you can be." Leaping off of the branch, she gave a slight nod to Addershade and padded towards the fresh-kill pile, taking stock of what little seemed to be left.

Addershade approached his new apprentice.

Two apprentices, huh... he thought as he walked towards the young tom. Well...maybe that will be a good thing. An extra pair of eyes while out in the forest is always safer, I suppose. But can I really handle both him and Applepaw at once? What if one gets hurt while I'm watching the other...?

Addershade gave Stagpaw a smile, hoping he didn't look as tired as he felt.

There's no point worrying about this right now, he thought. Not that that had ever stopped him before.

"Hello, Stagpaw. Congratulations. I look forward to training with you,"