Gillkit's Apprentice Ceremony

Another day, and another ceremony. He had done so many ceremonies over his time as the deputy. However, things felt different now. Each time he stood up on the tallbranch, it was not to replace the leader, he was the leader. Rippedstar doubted he would ever get used to this feeling. He doubted even more that he would ever be able to feel like he adequately could take Crowstar's place. But, he had to do it. As his claws scored the branch, he let out a familiar call, "Let all cats old enough to climb a tree gather beneath the tallbranch for a clan meeting!" His voice filled the clearing and called them forwards. Thankfully, there was some good news today. Even with everything that had happened, life went on and grew. Today, Gillkit would be named an apprentice. With a mentor decided and everything settled, all that was left to do was to officially give a name to the young tom. However, it felt much emptier than before. His face remained neutral and stoic, showing off a sense of duty. Responsibility drove him today. Rippedstar found himself wishing he could be happier for the kit. But, today, the feeling did not come.

Once he spotted the young tom, it was time to begin the ceremony. He found it hard to force the familiar words from his throat. Thankfully, he was able to use his resolve to push them out, "Gillkit, please step forward." It was redundant, but not reciting the words as they were always said felt wrong. His ear merely twitched as he waited for the kit to do so. There was no sense of wonder or feelings of pride as he watched the young tom before him. Rippedstar knew it was wrong, but he couldn't help it. His expression remained neutral as he continued on, even if the words remained unwavering,"We gather once more to name another young cat as one of the clan's apprentices. Gillkit is old enough to begin training. From this day forward, until you receive your warrior name, you will be known as Gillpaw. Pineheart is an experienced warrior and I know she will pass down all of her wisdom to you." As soon as the clan finished cheering, he leaped down to meow a quick congratulations before disappearing back into the leader's den.

As Gillpaw touched noses with his new mentor, it was bitter-sweet. He was extremely happy to become an apprentice, but he had finally noticed Rippedstar's attitude. There was no excitement, no energy like he had seen in him previously. He made a mental note to try and find out why. "So, what're we doing first?" Gillpaw asked his mentor. This was going to be fun! Gillpaw tried to reassure himself. Despite this, he could not shake Rippedstar's unhappy look...