Sunkit's Apprentice Ceremony

The smooth, well-worn stone of the Tallrock was shimmering weakly in the watery atmosphere, the chilly light of day reflecting upon the soft dusting of frost. Brindleface's fur caught softly on the tendrils of ice, a faintly evident rustling sound just barley noticeable above the breeze, as she pulled herself atop the ceremonial meeting place. Straightening up, the Deputy’s voice rang out with a sharp note of purpose as she called out the familiar summons, "Let all cats old enough to catch their own prey gather underneath the Tallrock for a Clan meeting!"

Sunkit strutted cheerfully out of the nursery, fur gleaming, feeling as though she could take on anyone, or hunt every rabbit on the moor. Better than that, she felt as though she could take down a whole horse! She had been looking forward to this day for moons, since she learned what it even was to be an apprentice. To say Sunkit was thrilled would be a dire understatement.

In spite of herself, though, was a feeling of apprehension. She had no idea who her mentor would be and she was well aware that soon, all eyes would be on her. This gave her pause.

It'll be okay, the kit thought. It has to be! I'm gonna be an apprentice!

Neatly winding her tail around her paws, Brindleface's austere gaze was pensive as she watched the bounce in Sunkit's step as she hurried into the loose throng of cats, excitement evident in the young she-kit's body language. Only when the last stragglers made their way to the scattered collection of cats did she finally raise her voice. "Sunkit, you have reached the age of six moons, and it is time for you to find your place among the Clan." She began, voice carrying a sharp and determined undercurrent, "From this day on, until you receive your Warrior name, you will be known as Sunpaw. I shall mentor you, and I look forward to passing down everything that my mentor once taught me."

Gracefully dismounting the looming stone of the Tallrock, the Leader made to complete the ceremony with the traditional first greeting between Mentor and Apprentice.

Sunpaw felt at a loss for words. To be mentored by none other than Brindleface, the deputy of the clan, was a tremendous honor! Instead of speaking, Sunpaw merely beamed and trotted up to touch noses with her mentor. She hoped the "thank you" in her eyes would be sufficient.