Minnowpaw's Moonstone Journey

Thunderclan was growing, and it was growing fast. Dovefrost couldn't be more happy with this outcome. More and more apprentices we're becoming warriors. Of course he had a play in that with their moonstone trips but really it was all because of their hard work. With a bundle of herbs nearby he called the apprentice out of their den. "Minnowpaw it's time for your Journey." Once the apprentice had pulled himself out of the den, Dovefrost directed the tom. "Eat those, and then we can get going." The large tom said, gesturing to the herbs with his paw.

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The long journey had felt even longer this time. Probably due to the cold and the wind, but relief was found as soon as they entered into Mothermouth. The cavern, even though it was cold, sheltered them from the harsh wind. Dovefrost sat off to the side. "Press your nose to the Moonstone, and Starclan will claim you."

Some apprentices would've refused to sleep, excitement claiming their wake. Minnowpaw however, was tired, and hungry. After eating a mouse he'd caught, the apprentice went straight to the apprentices' den, sleep easily overcoming his weary form. With the unmerciful claws of leaf-bare clutching at his pelt, hunting for food seemed to drain more energy than consuming it provided. It seemed that he had only been sleeping for a few heartbeats, but a voice woke him up, telling him it was time for his journey. Blinking sleep from his eyes, the tom stretched and stepped outside. Dovefrost was waiting with some herbs. Wait. Today's the day? Realization hit him, and he quickly swallowed the bitter-tasting stuff.



Hollow bones needed rest, forcing his paws to keep going step by step. At last, there it was. Bathing in the brilliant glow of the Moonstone, the tom's eyes shined. Taking a couple of steps closer, the voice of his experienced companion made him flinch. Following the instructions, he sank down onto the cold stone, gently touching his nose to the glowing stone. Eyes closed and he entered his needed, peaceful slumber. This is nice...

One of Ashstar's favorite responsibilities of being a StarClan cat was getting to interact with the youngest generation of cats. She'd had varied experiences with Moonstone journeys, but more often than not, it was just nice to talk to another living being. Hopefully, her advice would be helpful... difficult times were coming for the Clans. Even more than they were already dealing with.

A soft gray cat appeared from behind a tree in the star-studded plains of StarClan, blessed in an eternal greenleaf evening. This was where most apprentices met with their chosen ancestors. "Wake up, Minnowpaw," she leader said gently, a smile reaching her face as she saw the dozing tom. "Remember what you're here for."

Yet again, the time of rest was not long. A soothing voice reached his ear, just like the other time, telling him to wake up. Expecting his limbs to protest, the tom was surprised to find him so full of energy. Getting to his paws, he turned towards the source of the sound. A gray she-cat emerged from behind a tree. Realizing there were leaves on it, he spun around, taking in the scenery. Greenleaf. The apprentice had never really experienced this sort of weather. It was breathtaking and beautiful, the place of his dreams. And really, it was a dream.

"So this is StarClan." he mewed, wonder in his voice.

Ashstar's smile grew wider. This apprentice was certainly calmer than many others she'd talked to before. In a moment, she was irresistibly reminded of her own kits at that age. "Yes, it certainly is. You may dwell here someday. But that time is far in the future." She shook out her pelt and looked down at him, spring-green eyes radiant with the light of the stars. A soft, warm breeze blew past Minnowpaw. "My name is Ashstar. I was the leader of WindClan quite a long time ago. Not the best leader, perhaps, but a leader nonetheless. And I am here to speak with you, and offer any advice you may need. Do you have any questions for me?"

The StarClan cat was smiling at him, logic informed him it was probably good to smile back. And so he did. As a kit, he had found comfort in the stars above, dotting the night sky. Seeing the starry warrior was a wondrous thing and inside, he was bursting with joy and curiosity. "I'm Minnowpaw of ThunderClan." he replied with confidence, which immediately fell apart when he remembered she already knew. The radiant she-cat moved on, asking if he wanted advice on anything. Averting his gaze, he looked at his paws, pondering what to ask. He would be a warrior soon. "Do you have any tips on serving my clan and being a better warrior?"

Cats always liked to introduce themselves, though it was a little redundant given her knowledge. Ashstar appreciated it anyway. It was only polite. And of course, his question was understandable. Gray ear twitching thoughtfully, she tilted her head in response. "That tends to depend on the individual cat and their Clan," she responded finally, her voice deep and resonant. "However, there are a few tips that apply to all. Honesty and loyalty are good for all warriors. However, despite the tough times you and your Clan may have to deal with, it is important to remember to follow your heart. Still follow the Code, of course, but in your dealings with other Clanmates and cats, do what you believe is right. Act with kindness and mercy when necessary, but fight back against injustice." She looked down at him, meeting his gaze with her bright green eyes. "As long as you do that, I believe you will be a great warrior."

Honesty, loyalty, follow your heart. Be kind and merciful, fight against injustice, and do what is right. The apprentice did his best to take all her words in, memorizing them for when he would need the advice. The look in his eyes was serious as he listened, determined to be the best warrior he could possibly be. His brief interaction with Starclan was coming to an end, the heavenly scenery fading away. "Thank you... for your guidance." he mewed as his vision slowly grew dark. Eyes blinking open, he was met with the comforting light of the Moonstone.