Bluekit's Apprentice Ceremony

Ah, youth. Lichenstar made her way up the willow tree overhanging the camp, the dappled light coming through the leaves illuminating her already colorful pelt. She didn't often get to perform apprentice ceremonies - one of the things she missed doing as a deputy. The little bundles were all so excited to become warriors, and their parents always glowed with pride watching their kittens grow up so fast. This time it was her deputy's own son, which was perhaps why she was overseeing this one in particular.

"All cats old enough to catch their own prey, gather under the Willow Branch for a clan meeting!"

Bluekit hurried over at the ceremonial summons. His pelt had been meticulously groomed by his mother, and he felt ready for what was to come. He knew it was his apprentice ceremony, and equal parts excitement and worry filled him. He wanted to be the best RiverClan warrior ever, but he also very distinctly remembered the disaster that had been his first time swimming and he could only hope he'd never do so miserably at something again.

He looked up at Lichenstar, his blue eyes shining, and had to remind himself to breath normally. This was happening!

Wolfkit watched. It seemed that he had been waiting for his ceremony for at least 10 moons! He wished he could be an apprentice, like Bluekit. He watched Lichenstar as he spoke to the young tom. He had obviously known about the ceremony, his pelt was groomed beautifully. He sighed, knowing that he would have to wait just a bit longer for his ceremony.

Lichenstar's gaze found the young tom as he came below the tree. Having seen how he carried himself around camp and around his siblings, well, perhaps he needed a little boost to his confidence. He reminded her of a little leaf on the river's surface. Going as the currents took him instead of forging his path. Life was never easy, but passively letting it go by was a surefire way to get hurt. With everyone in their proper places, she began, voice loud and clear.

"Bluekit, you have reached the age of six moons, and it is time for you to be apprenticed. From this day forth, until you receive your warrior name, you will be known as Bluepaw. I will be your mentor, and I hope that you will learn well to become a strong and respected warrior of RiverClan." With these words she hopped down to touch noses with the newly named Bluepaw, her eyes a little softer than usual. She'd lead him to be that warrior hidden under all that kitten-fluff.

Bluepaw. Of course, he'd known what his apprentice name would be, but hearing himself really, truly referred to it was exciting. And Lichenstar was his mentor! He'd just gotten so incredibly lucky. A loud purr rumbled in his chest, and he hastily moved to meet her in the customary touching of noses. He might have been a bit too excited, though, bumping his nose into hers a little harder than he had intended.

"Whoops, sorry, Lichenstar." He whispered, looking embarrassed.