Coyotepaw’s Warrior Ceremony

“Let all cats old enough to run the moor join beneath the Tallrock for a Clan meeting!” Goldenstar was admittedly weary when she called out the Clan summons. She had worked overtime weaving bramble branches to reinforce the gorse wall, drilling queens and elders on the proper response to an alarm call, and organizing multiple patrols to sweep the tunnels for obvious weaknesses. Too many mistakes had been made in the last few days. This pause in her haste to protect her Clanmates was partially irritating, though mostly she had eagerly awaited the ceremony she would be performing.

The days have been long, dark, and cold since Daisypaw died and the rogue's attacked. She was weary. Tired. Exhausted. The whole clan was. Her only condolence was Hawkpaw... She motioned to the tom now, to join her. She sat close to where her mother stood, somber eyes peering up. What more bad news could this be?

[url=burlywood] “We are gathered today to welcome a new warrior into our ranks. Coyotepaw, step forward to earn your name.”[/color] She could see the exhaustion in her daughter’s eyes. “I call upon my warrior ancestors to look down upon this apprentice. She has worked hard to learn the ways of your noble code, and I commend her to you as a warrior in return. Coyotepaw, do you promise to protect and defend this Clan, even at the cost of your own life?" Ugh. That last bit had more sting than ever.

So this, this really was her moment. Her heart started racing faster than ever and as she stood and approached Goldenstar a little closer, she couldn't help but glance around to see if Hawkpaw was watching. Perhaps, Lighteningpaw too. Goldenstar had chosen her to receive her warrior name first, and that must mean something. At least... Hopefully. It seemed as if her mother didn't hold Daisypaw's death against her. Finally, Coyotepaw nodded and dipped her head out of respect. "I do. Without hesitation." She meant it. This clan was her life and she was vowing, at this moment, to not sleep if her clan was not safe. To not hesitate to do anything her mother, her clan, needed out of her.

... Anything.

“Then from this moment on, you will be known as Coyotegrin. WindClan recognizes your quickness in stride and in willingness to serve. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. You will sit vigil alone tonight to celebrate your new rank as warrior." Goldenstar jumped down to rest her muzzle on her daughter's head, eyes closing briefly.