Badgerkit's Apprentice Ceremony

"ShadowClan! All cats old enough to silently stalk in the shadows, please gather around for a Clan meeting!"

The deputy's voice carried over their makeshift camp, calling the attention of kits, apprentices, and warriors alike. She kept a watchful eye on one group in particular, searching for the kit who was ready to move forward and begin their apprenticeship.

Badgerkit sat huddled on the edge of the makeshift camp clearing, gaze focused sadly on where her mom was sitting. It was...Hard, being in the open without her mom nearby for cover but she knew it was important that she didn't sit near her when it was time for a ceremony or other important Clan meeting. ...Didn't change the fact that it sucked. She pouted, sticking her tongue out as she straightened up a little to look a little more presentable, but there was no denying how her fur was started to prickle. The sooner this was over, the better...

Seeing Badgerkit look so sad, Leopardsun was tempted to abandon all pretenses and sweep her daughter under her tail to the relative safety and privacy she could offer- but that wasn't realistic. She couldn't shelter them from everything.

Besides...

"Badgerkit, please step forward."

She waited patiently for her to come forward, and lowered herself enough to touch noses.

"You have reached the age of six moons and are ready to become an apprentice. From this day until you earn your warrior name, you will be known as Badgerpaw. I will be your mentor- I will do my best to pass my knowledge onto you."

Affection and pride were clear in her gaze.

"We'll have the chance to train tomorrow. For now, take the time to find a place for your nest."

Badgerkit's ears perked up as her name was called out, eyes growing wide. Oh. Oh no, it was time. She should have seen this coming, a few of her siblings had already gotten her name - she was going to be an apprentice. She should have been excited, she knew she was suppose to be exciting but it was...Scary. Everything was scary - cats were missing, things was happening and...

No, sh-she had to be strong. Or at least...Brave enough for this. All eyes were on her - this was her ceremony. Slowly she pushed herself to her paws and stepped forward, gaze remaining locked on Leopardsun's as she just tried to pretend everybody else wasn't there. She could feel herself relaxing ever so slightly as she came to a stop just before her mom, focusing on her words as she continued the ceremony.

Badgerpaw...And her mentor was... Her?!? A huge wave of relief flooded over the newly named apprentice, quickly nodding her head. Her mom was her mentor, that was fine. She would be safe with her, things would be okay. "Alright," she whispered as the two touched noses, giving her a weak smile. "I'll...Do my best."