goldenpaw's warrior ceremony

Mottlestar let out a gentle purr as she lept on top of the place she'd called her Clan to gather so many times before. It seemed like the apprentice's den was basically overflowing these days, so much so that they had to actually expand it while rebuilding from the earthquake that had hit their territory not many moons prior. But with the two legs finally gone, and her Clan once more home, it was time to begin commending the apprentices that had worked hard. "Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather beneath the Highrock for a Clan meeting!"

Sunpaw stood among the gathered cats, his gaze fixed on his sister.

Goldenpaw stepped forward, her pelt blending in with the mass of other pelts. She could feel the stares of her clanmates trace her pelt, and she shifted her paws self-consciously.

Mottlestar watched as her clanmates gathered, and she looked at the apprentice with a smile. "Goldenpaw, step forward." Once the apprentice had done so, she continued. "Goldenpaw, you have trained hard in the ways of the warrior, and you have more than done your part to earn your full place in Thunderclan in light of recent events. But I first need to ask, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and serve Thunderclan, even at the cost of your life?" She asked, her head tilting as she awaited the young molly's answer.

Blazefang sat off to the side, tail twitching with excitement. Her daughter was about to become a warrior! She managed to keep from letting out a whoop of joy so as not to embarrass her daughter, but it was all she could do. The ginger watched, waiting for her daughter’s answer.

Goldenpaw raised her gaze to meet her mentor and leader's eyes. "I do," she mewed.

With the confirmation from the apprentice, Mottlestar beamed. "Then from this day forth, and by the powers Starclan has given me, I am proud to say from this day forth you shall be known as Goldenfern. Thunderclan honors your compassion and gentle touch, and we welcome you as a full warrior of Thunderclan. Tonight, as the clan sleeps, you will sit in silent vigil and watch over your clan." With the customary words out of the way, Mottlestar's tail waved to dismiss the formal side of the ceremony. "Thunderclan, welcome your newest warrior, Goldenfern!"

“Goldenfern! Goldenfern!” Blazefang cheered, finally letting loose and jumping up and down. Then it hit her. Goldenfern. Mottlestar knew of the surrogacy situation, but Blazefang didn’t think she knew who exactly Mudfern was! Was this just a coincidence? Had StarClan been involved somehow? Regardless, Blazefang stood still for a moment. Your kits are doing great, old friend.