flurrypaw's apprentice ceremony

"Let all cats gather for a clan meeting." Stoatfur's call was the usual tame greeting. The clearing wasn't too large, and while growing swiftly, there weren't too many conversations echoing about. It was easy to capture the attention of exhausted warrior and apprentices who lounged about, trying to recharge some of the little energy they had. Settling back on his haunches, the little brown and white tom regarded them all. He knew each personally, having grown up alongside, or watched them grow. But this ceremony was different - it was for a Riverclan cat. Flicking his tail slightly, his gaze sought to rest on Flurrypaw as soon as she joined the throng of gathered cats.

Glancing around at the throng of unfamiliar cats in camp, Flurrypaw wondered if someday she'd know them all by scent. Her thoughts were interrupted by a call. The voice was now somewhat well-known to her and she was right. The brown and white tom stood atop a rock, a different sight compared to her former home's Willow Branch. To her surprise, their eyes met. A defiant stare was supposed to show her boldness, but she probably looked like a kit.

The fire behind her eyes was decisive. Flurrypaw needed a guiding paw and it couldn't be him. Normally, he spoke with mentors before making assignments, but this case was different. He flicked an ear at the young she-cat before addressing her, "Flurrypaw, you're over your six moons but you have plenty to learn about being a proper apprentice. Thrushnose will be your mentor when she returns, in the meantime, you can join me on patrols." It shouldn't be long, surely. Making such a decision convinced him that indeed both his medicine cat and mother would be returning soon. He dismissed the clan with a flick of his tail, not caring whether or not there were cheers carrying across the clearing, as this wasn't a naming ceremony, just a mere announcement.

The fact that the announcement was about her did not excite, nor arouse her. A nonchalant flick of the ears showed her acknowledgment. Getting up, she shook some snow off her paws before padding away to look for her family. Thrushnose... the name was embedded into her mind.