Ceremonies and a [Change] (All of SunsetClan!) 07/04/2015

[[Acro.]]

{THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR MEGA-PATIENCE. YOU ARE ALL AWESOME. HEARTS FOR ALL <3

Note: once again, this post is IMPORTANT. Please read/scan through all of Ratstar's speech/announcement portions (you are allowed to skip past any Ceremony that is not relevant to your cats) The beginning and end each have important information for the entire Clan!! (I will make colorful the bottom most important parts) =)

Mentors Note: Hawkpool, Waterstep, Softblossom, and Duckstrike are each receiving two apprentices, so, RPers of these warriors, read carefully.

You are free and INVITED to have your cats approach Ratstar with any questions, concerns, or conversation at the Moonrock after the Ceremonies are completed. I think there will be plenty of that, this time around...

I encourage everyone to post here, but these are the people most relevant to the thread: Isilme, Wolf, @greencatdude, Lightningtrail, Eveningbreeze, Echo, Skiv, @snowykcnomre, Ambrose, εℓιzαвεтн., @101asa, Winter is Coming, Falcon, Vinepool, Icestorm, Twineheart, Rogue, Babylonranger, Puddlesdog, @lilykit, @iamrae, Avery, ℓυиαя, Midnight (for Mintpaw) aaaaaand Legit phew}

+-----+-----+

Green Leaf was warm, but Ratstar felt cool in her bones. The chill, one might say, was from a build-up of nerves...

but Ratstar was not a cat who ever felt nervous.

The petite leader strode purposefully out of her den and made a beeline toward the Moonrock, leaping easily onto its smooth surface, the stone warmed by the heat of the day. The sun was low against the sea, casting an orange glow across the sands of the neighboring beach. "All cats loyal to SunsetClan who are healthy enough are to gather about the Moonrock, immediately," Came her usual summon, and Ratstar waited for cats to gather, letting her eyes search out across the waves in the distance. Once there was a crowd, the leader went on, her voice steady. "As you are all aware," she began carefully; considerately. "Our constant efforts in the search for our Wildpaw have, thus far, been fruitless. After moons, we have recovered no sign of her... and with the tragedy that has befallen TalonClan with Pebblestar's untimely death, we must now rule out Wildpaw's involvement or suffering at the paws of those catnappers." Given the timing of things, Ratstar had been convinced that Wildpaw had either fallen in with the wrong crowd and had been a part of the catnapping... or she had been taken, herself.

but this was clearly not the case. "We will, of course, continue our search... but we must all prepare in the moons to come for colder weather, when we will have less freedom to spare warriors and time." It might be a hard reality to swallow... but Ratstar could only allow for so much time searching for a cat who may not want to be found. The leader went on, hoping to shift the mood to something more optimistic. "but now, friends, it is time for Ceremonies."

"Ferretpaw," she began, wasting no time. "Your path has been of many turns, but you have walked it stalwartly. From this day forward, you will be known as Ferretheart, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of loyalty and strength."

"Brightpaw," Ratstar continued, searching for the black she-cat. "Your path has been winding and roundabout, but you walked it courageously in your own way. From this day forward, you will be known as Brightberry, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of compassion."

"Firepaw," she summoned, sharp eyes scanning for the young tom. "Your path has been long and arduous, though you have walked it proudly. From this day forward, you will be known as Firetooth, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of courage and ferocity."

"Flamepaw," came the next lucky up-and-coming, Ratstar giving the blind she-cat a moment to come forward. "Your path has been shadowed, but you have tread confidently and your paws have been true. From this day forward, you will be known as Flamestrike, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of perseverance."

"Tigerpaw," she called, keeping an eye out for the striped tom. "Your path has been narrow, and you have walked it fearlessly. From this day forward, you will be known as Tigerhawk, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of intellect and skill."

"Wasp-paw," the leader announced as the list continued. "Your path has been hazy, but you have walked it without hesitation. From this day forward, you will be known as Waspwing, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of aptitude and grace."

"Petalpaw," Ratstar carried on, trying to pinpoint the sandy feline. "Your path has been imposing and impeding, but you walked it with unassuming paws. From this day forward, you will be known as Petalbreeze, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of elegance and dignity."

"Pinepaw," she summoned, looking for the young tabby. "Your path has been deceptive, but you have walked it tirelessly. From this day forward, you will be known as Pinestorm, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of ambition and pride."

"Heronpaw," was the next name; the name of the young tom with the mysterious past. Ratstar wanted to make sure this tom knew he had a true family, a home, here, even if his origins were unknown. "Your path has been strange and unfurling, but you have walked it with light paws and a lighter spirit. From this day forward, you will be known as Heronsplash , warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of faith and fortitude."

"Cloudpaw," Ratstar called, reaching the final name in the long list of to-be-new warriors. Almost. "Your path has been calm, and you have walked it with grace. From this day forward, you will be known as Cloudshine, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk a path of truth and kindness."

"Snowpelt," she called, giving the SunsetClan inductee a moment to find her way forwards. The leader could remember the day this she-cat had come to her, asking for refuge within the Clan... "Your path has come from daring beginnings, and you have done your best to walk alongside this Clan. From this day forward, you are Snowpelt, warrior of SunsetClan--may you continue to walk among us as kin."

"Briarspring," Ratstar called, not often having the chance to conduct a Ceremony such as this. "You have spent your share of moons walking beside your Clanmates and serving this Clan with your grand spirit and indomitable strength. I say now that you are free to rest your paws, and join your comrades within the Elders' Den, where you will be looked after with the respect you have rightly earned, until your path at last turns you toward the stars." A noble Ceremony, indeed.

"Scorchkit," she went on, going from the old and back to the young. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Scorchpaw, and Ferretheart will mentor you along your way."

"Frostkit," came the next name, Ratstar searching for the dilute calico. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Frostpaw, and Aspenstream will mentor you along your way."

"Snakekit," the leader summoned, giving the tom a moment to come forward. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Snakepaw, and Softblossom will mentor you along your way."

"Shadowkit," Ratstar announced, trying to spot the black tom in the crowd. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Shadowpaw, and Mossbrook will mentor you along your way."

"Rustkit," she addressed, searching for the next fortunate feline on that day's long list. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Rustpaw, and Featherstep will mentor you along your way."

"Birchkit," she went on, hardly struggling to find the white she-cat among the masses. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Birchpaw, and Applestream will mentor you along your way."

"Riverkit," Ratstar called, pausing so the blue-grey tom could step forward. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Riverpaw, and Hawkpool will mentor you along your way."

"Redkit," she summoned, the names an endless parade. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Redpaw, and Waterstep will mentor you along your way."

"Ravenkit," was next, and, with so many new apprentices, it was only a matter of time before there would be some doubling up... but Ratstar had no doubts her warriors could handle themselves. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Ravenpaw, and Softblossom will mentor you alongside Rustpaw on your way."

"Skykit," came the name, and Ratstar searched for the she-cat momentarily. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Skypaw, and Waterstep will mentor you alongside Redpaw on your way."

"Hollykit," she called, hoping she wasn't forgetting any after such a vast Ceremony. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Hollypaw, and Duckstrike will mentor you along your way."

"Fawnkit," Ratstar announced, waiting for the young hopeful to come forward. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Fawnpaw, and Hawkpool will mentor you alongside Riverpaw on your way."

"Tansykit," was the final name--a young tortoiseshell--and then, afterwards... the news., knowing this name would be marked as starkly different from the others. "It is time for you to begin walking the path that will lead you to becoming a warrior of SunsetClan--until such a time, you will be known as Tansypaw, and Duckstrike will mentor you alongside Hollypaw on your way."

Falling quiet to make room for the cheering, Ratstar caught her breath... and then recalled the attention of her Clan.

They needed to hear what she was to say next.

"Now, friends... I have an important announcement that requires your full attentions. Please." Ratstar paused, waiting for the crowd to quiet. She threw a glance toward Vineheart, trying to signal to her Deputy what she was about to reveal to the Clan so that the other she-cat might prepare herself. "I don't need to tell you all that we, SunsetClan, have seen our share of tragedies and wars, and also tasted great victories together. but, for those of you who were present and able... I ask that you remember the times when we have been our greatest--our strongest. Silverstar's death... the overthrow of the giant Birds... and I also ask that you stretch your minds, and try to fully understand what it was about those times that made us strong." The Clans.

The Clans had been united.

Ratstar hesitated, wondering how much of an uproar this was going to cause, or if she would receive stronger support. Her Clan had never let her down, in the past... "When we, as a single Clan, are together, SunsetClan is strong. but when we are united, we are strongest." Another pause as she wondered how much of her intentions to reveal at such an early stage. "In the days to come, I will be visiting with the other leaders. Sparrowleaf, I ask that you join me, and trust Mintpaw to care for this Clan in your absence. As for who will lead you all... Vineheart will act is sitting leader until my return. You are all to treat her with the same amount of respect as you have always--always--shown me." Ratstar's eyes were sharp as they met coolly, though fiercely, with the collective eyes of her Clan. "Anyone with concerns, or questions, you may speak them now, or see me privately, but I ask that we maintain a conversational tone and do not let our civility fall to shambles. Thank you."

+-----+-----+

Sandstrike, his gaze dark with restraint, strode forward to stand at the base of the Moonrock. He burned Ratstar with his eyes as though to speak against her, a palpable tension between them, but then turned and faced fully the entire Clan. He stood beneath his leader, a outright display of support, simultaneously inviting others to join him while also daring anybody to take one step too far, too close, to her.

Neither he nor Ratstar knew how the others were about to react.

+-----+-----+

{Ratstar's announcement wasn't exactly crystal-clear, and this was intentional. Cats should be confused/worried/outraged/surprised/mortified/supportive/excited. Take your pick, to any degree, but it would be great if we had some who are totally supportive and others who are totally against what she is suggesting. You can even make a separate thread with your character approaching Ratstar to discuss what is happening. AND IF YOUR CAT RECEIVED A WARRIOR NAME, DO NOT FORGET TO POST *HERE* WITH IT.}

[Falcon]

The newly named Firetooth didn't hesitate in the slightlest when he saw Sandstrike stand below Ratstar he dipped his head both in thanks to the cat who had both given him a home and gave him a life here in her clan before he strode forward sitting next to Sandstrike, briefly nodding his head to the older warrior before staring out at his adopted clan his eyes fierce and challenging for any cat to try and defy his leader

Flamestrike listened with her ears prickled, though she didn't see what was going on due to her blindness she could feel the tension like a thick fog over the clan she didn't step forward, mostly out of fear of running into any other cat, and felt a curiosity to Ratstar's words "but what if the other leaders do not agree with you" she called out, her voice soft like the breeze, not accusing or angry, just worried and curious

Tigerhawk snarled a little at Ratstar's words, he admired the leader yes but this was just plan foolish "They'll kill you if you go out there" he didn't mean to sound so angry, his eyes squinting as he struggled to see his leader, but he didn't want Ratstar to die, not out there with only one cat for protection

[Acro.] for Ratstar

[ℓυиαя]

"All cats loyal to SunsetClan who are healthy enough are to gather about the Moonrock, immediately."

The call of Ratstar flooded the camp as Vineheart made her way from the warriors den and out to the base of Moonrock as was expected of her as deputy. The small tabby made quick work of the distance, feeling the heat of the sun hit her with force compared to the cool haven of the den. On the outside, the dark tabby looked calm and collected when in reality she was a bundle of nerves. Over the last while, her mind had been plagued with thoughts of their last conversation, of her acceptance, of Ratstar's plan. And now, it seemed the rest of Sunsetclan were going to be filled in. If she were honest with herself, Vineheart didn't know how they would take the news. Nodding to her leader as the she cat reached the top of moon rock, Vineheart took her spot at the base, looking out over the gathering cats through jailed eyes and trying not to think about anything other than this moment. It was hard to keep her mind still, her thoughts flitting like a trapped dove, however masking her face meant that only she and those closest to her, would have any idea what she were feeling.

As Sunsetclan's leader spoke up again, it was to address her friend Wildpaw, causing Vineheart's ears to flatten and her eyes to darken. Her announcement brought back all the fruitless patrols, the sleepless nights, the worry and the dread to the forefront of her mind. The clan, and herself were all giving up hope on the young tabby ever returning causing a spear to pierce her heart and compress her chest. The last thing she wanted was to stop searching, to just.. give up and let fate be as it was and so she let out a silent sigh of relief as Ratstar announced they would continue to search if a little less. It was a decision that had to be made and as much as Vineheart wanted her friend and clan-mate back, the clan couldn't keep the frequent search patrols up.

And she couldn't keep running herself into the ground either.

The ceremonies commenced then, leaving Vineheart to dwell on her thoughts and lock them away in her mind. It was something she was becoming a lot better at and though it was hard at times for the emotional cat, she was learning from the best. Golden eyes tracked each individual as they received their new names and mentors. She had always loved Ceremonies however tonight she couldn't wait for the heavy feeling to leave her chest, to take flight and leave. By the time the young Tansykit had become Tansypaw, Vineheart could tell with the slight pause of her leader coupled with the brief glance thrown in her direction, that this was it - be as it may.

"When we, as a single Clan, are together, SunsetClan is strong. but when we are united, we are strongest. In the days to come, I will be visiting with the other leaders. Sparrowleaf, I ask that you join me, and trust Mintpaw to care for this Clan in your absence. As for who will lead you all... Vineheart will act is sitting leader until my return. You are all to treat her with the same amount of respect as you have always--always--shown me. Anyone with concerns, or questions, you may speak them now, or see me privately, but I ask that we maintain a conversational tone and do not let our civility fall to shambles. Thank you."

That was it, the announcement thrown firmly to the wind leaving herself and Vineheart to catch the clans reactions, their emotions and hopefully their support. Watching the clan carefully, Vineheart watched a familiar sandy tom make his way to the base of Moonrock, his normally light gaze hard and dark. He hadn't known - he was hearing it just like the rest of the clan for the first time - something he didn't seem to be taking lightly. Pulling her ears back slightly, Vineheart stood and joined him facing the gathered cats, meeting their gazes steadily to reinforce her decision - the one she had made when first asked. She would support Ratstar in this and she only hoped for support in return.

-----

A tall tom had sat quietly on the wing of the gathered cats, silent through the ceremonies called one by one but at Ratstar's last announcement his ears raced forward and iced eyes narrowed.

What?

Thornfrost respected Ratstar, he always had and so didn't immediately oppose her stance however his mind whirred and he stood to his feet. Sparrowleaf, I ask that you join me, and trust Mintpaw to care for this Clan in your absence. As for who will lead you all... Vineheart will act is sitting leader until my return. Her words filled his mind and he watched as Sandstrike joined her no questions asked. Thornfrost however thought of the threats she would be putting herself against. From what she had said, it would be her and Sparrowleaf - a leader and a medicine cat - no more and no less. Both capable fighters but nothing if the clans decided to turn against them. Speaking from where he stood as Vineheart also showed her support, his voice cut out over the heads of his clanmates to his leader upon the rock. 

"So, you are intending on bringing the clans back together once more? What if the other leaders do not take kindly to you? Walking in with no one to defend you is mousebrained, Ratstar, and I only wish you would consider more support."

[εℓιzαвεтн.]

Applestream tags; Birchpaw, Ratstar ([Acro.])

The ceremony began as usual, though he was eager as it was about time he would be given an apprentice of his own. Nothing really out of the ordinary for clan meetings, an update on the missing apprentice Wildpaw. Applestream himself had never known the young she-cat, but knew that she was missed among the clan. While his innate curiosity piqued, silently wondering what could've possibly happened to her, he kept questions to himself. She had not been part of his life and he had no right to go asking after her.

He watched with slight interest as the apprentices and kits began moving up in the ranks. With each warrior name called, he nodded to the cats who would now be sharing the den with him. It was with a twinge of regret that he realized he had not really socialized with the apprentices- erm, warriors. The ginger tom was normally the first to jump at making friends, yet he truly didn't recall any conversations with the young warriors.

He spent even less time with the kits. Whereas Applestream could at least recall watching one of the apprentices doing something or another around camp, he really didn't pay any attention to kits, except to make sure he didn't step upon them. It was no wonder he hadn't received an apprentice yet when he took no interest in the kits. So, when his name was called to mentor a cat named Birchpaw, he winced as he stepped forward. He did not recognize that name and didn't have the slightest clue of what she would look like. He looked around, conspicuously trying to find the cat he would lead to warriorship.

Ratstar had finished the ceremonies but did not seem to be finished. She continued speaking, and with each word, Applestream became more and more confused. What exactly was she saying? Uniting the clans? Was that it? Well, no, it couldn't be. That couldn't possibly work. Could it? No, no, he must be mistaken. She must mean something else. but what?

The ginger tom stood, looking up at Moonrock with wide eyes before taking half a pace forward towards his leader. He wanted to call out, ask why she would be leaving. but the words were stuck in his throat and, instead, he watched her with shocked yellow eyes. He wanted so desperately to trust her, but how could he trust that trying to unite would be best?

---

Tansypaw tags; Duckstrike, Hollypaw, Vineheart, Ratstar

Tansypaw was properly groomed for what felt like the first time in moons. Never mind that she had only lived six moons, it felt like she had been as clean and shiny for eight moons. Nor had she ever felt so excited in her life. She would become an apprentice! And apprentices got to leave the camp and do important things, like, like... well, she wasn't exactly sure what important things, but she knew they existed. The tortoiseshell waited eagerly as every other kit was called before her.

When her named was called, she practically bounced onto her feet. Not only would she be training now, she would be training alongside another apprentice! Tansypaw was searching for the apprentice who had been given Duckstrike just before her, as well as her new mentor. She would meet them, and maybe she and Hollypaw could have nests beside each other! Hopefully the other apprentice was friendly enough, and her mentor would hopefully be kind enough. After she found her mentor and fellow apprentice, she would go show to Vineheart how great of an apprentice she would be now.

but, before she could even scamper in the direction she last saw Duckstrike and Hollypaw, Ratstar continued speaking. Tansypaw hadn't been alive for any of the things Ratstar spoke about, but she had heard stories about the harsh leader and the Birds that had attacked the clans. but, still, the young apprentice wasn't quite clear on what she was saying. What could possibly be so important that she would leave to speak to the other clan leaders?

Tansypaw quickly got over her confusion and began realizing the slight riff between the clan that was beginning. She saw the confusion that was echoed in the eyes of her clanmates. That, she understood. but, she also understood why others had begun to physically stand by Ratstar in a show of support. And Tansypaw knew that no matter what Ratstar was doing,the tortoiseshell believed in her. This was her clan and she was meant to stick to the loyalty of being a Sunsetclan warrior.

She threw a look around her at the confused and angry clan cats before slinking, almost trying to disappear, up to her deputy. She didn't understand everything that was going on, but she had faith in her leader and in Vineheart.

Although, Vineheart's new leadership position meant that the tabby she-cat wouldn't be able to play with Tansypaw as much.

[Rogue]

Cloudshine tags: Heronsplash (Twineheart), Ratstar

Cloudshine's grey and white pelt tingled lightly as her warrior name was announced. It felt so good to finally be a warrior. Not only that, but her fellow Clanmate and dear friend Heronsplash had been made a warrior alongside her! The she-cat bounded over to the tom, a loud purr rumbling throughout her entire body as she pressed herself up against his side. "Isn't this exciting?!" she meowed happily, glancing at him with gleaming amber eyes. When their leader began to speak, she looked up at Ratstar in slight confusion. What did this mean for the Clan? She wasn't quite sure how to feel about this announcement, although she could tell that some of her Clanmates had already made up their minds about it.

[Puddlesdog]

Duckstrike tags: Hollypaw, Tansypaw

Duckstrike sighed, he was thinking about hard about a story to tell to all the Warriors, although he felt this to be like an elder type thing, stories could some time up the moods of the Warriors who missed loved ones. Sometimes it could even boost his spirits for his loved ones. Swallowing hard he looked up, tail swaying, a good story came into mind. As soon as he opened his maw to speak, everyone say up and left. Not wanting to stick out like a sorepaw, the tom followed behind everyone the occasional sorry had to mumbled if he stepped on a law, or tail that was dragging. Why was everybody moving? The best answer was the ceremonies, despite himself, Duckstrike squealed. Hollykit, and Tansypaw. that was all he could make out before disappointment and confusion came over him at the leaders next speech. "What? but why would she?" a was still for a moment, then he jerked out of his thinking stage to be welcomed by the bustling cats. He needed to see his apprentices. Where were his apprentices? If he could loose them this easily, this was not going to be fun. "Hollypaw? Tansypaw?" in all his excitement, Duckstrike didn't lower his voice at all, he only tried to raise it above everyone else's.

[Deleted]

Featherstep and Softblossom sat right next to each other, their tails coiled together. They watched the ceremony, expecting everything to be the same. None of them had thought anything interesting to happen, but it seemed as though they would be proved wrong.

Softblossom pricked her ears, hearing her name called. She had received her first apprentice, and she felt so honored to be chosen. A big grin was on her face; her cousin had nuzzled her in support. Softblossom promised something to herself at that second: she would be the best mentor ever.

Featherstep was proud, and she heard her name called. She bit her lip - another apprentice? How would she deal with this? She lowered her head softly, but she nodded at her leader. She had zoned out the rest of the ceremony, only paying attention when Softblossom said something.

"Hey," her cousin murmured in her ear, "You'll be fine. I'll be able to help you.. besides, I have two apprentices now too." She smiled softly, and the two she-cats giggled. They would be together forever, raising their apprentices the only way they knew how - together. They both stood up, looking for their apprentices.

Together, their voices rang through the air, "Snakepaw! Rustpaw! Ravenpaw!"

[Wolf]

The old tabby cat dipped her head, pale green eyes gleaming as Ratstar spoke the words that finally would relieve her from her warrior duties after he had performed the ceremonies that passed her duties on to the younger cats of the Clan who had only just made their way to their warrior name. "Now I can leave the duties to the younger cats. StarClan bless them so they may always have strength." Briarspring murmured to herself, watching with pride in her Clan as the excitement of the warrior and apprentice ceremonies buzzed around all the cats in the Clan. Along with the other cats, she cheered along for all the cats who had been given their new names.

[Vinepool]

Waspwing eyes widened as he heard his name be called. He puffed out of his chest in pure pride in himself. He listened to all the other ceremonies. At the end of the ceremonies he heard Ratstar's important announement. His eyes widened and he tilted his head at her words. He thought what does she mean? join clans? Puzzled, he walked up to Ratstar his eye narrowed with puzzlement. He looked at her and said," Um, Ratstar, what do you mean by leaving the clan for a little"? His head tilted still trying to think about what Ratstar meant. He waited for her answer.

[Deleted]

(Weren`t you gonna announce something about Dawnpaw?)

Skypaw navigated through the crowd easily. She trotted towards where her mentor stood. The keen eyed she-cat had not taken long to find her new mentor, Waterstep. Her yellow eyes darted across the crowd of cats, quickly spotting a large white cat. Skypaw greeted her mentor politely, with a calm sense of ease. Not at all energetic like her fellow clanmates, Skypaw showed no excitement, though her eyes sparkled with obvious happiness.

Isilme
[Acro.]

[Eveningbreeze]

Tag: Hawkpool (Isilme), Fawnpaw

As Ratstar spoke, the soon to be Riverpaw felt a little guilty: He should have helped to search for Wildpaw, even if he didn't knew the apprentice at all and he was still a kit at the time. Even if it was illogical, he wished he could had been a part of it. Maybe things could have been different...

The young tom interrumped his thoughts when his name was called. He took a step forward with a smile, but he slightly worried that this whole 'warrior training' thing would be too boring or hard for him to take it. He had spent every day of his life spoiled by his mother, with no other worries that his mousebrained brother. Well, it can't be that hard...

He listened to the rest of the ceremony, and got surprised to heard he would be sharing mentor with some other cat. but what surprised him the most was to hear such a strange announcement.

Well, if Ratstar wants to go to do something, fine by me. I don't need a leader here anyways...

[Icestorm]

OOC: Twineheart just a mention because I thought it was cute and funny

A small light sandy she-cat sat beside a much larger impending tabby. Her muscles tense. "Would you stop worrying. This is it. Ratstar is finally going to give us our names." The tabby smiled softly to her smaller friend. "You deserve it Petalpaw. Come on relax or I'm going to call Heronpaw Twineheart over here." The large she-cat smiled, "Heronp-!"

Petalpaw turn quickly to face her friend, "That's not fair! I am relaxed." She knew it was a lie, but she didn't want Pinepaw to tease her anymore.

With her name being called the small she-cat raised her head, her large eye filled with a wonder, but also a fear. This was it. She was going to be a warrior. Would life be easier now?

Petalbreeze

A hard pressure pulled her out of her fuzzy feeling, when she looked to the tabby that called her attention she say her nod her head with a proud smile. This was it she was a warrior now. For real. She had to start to learn let go. To stop over thinking...

Pinestorm

The pale she-cat turned to her large friend with a happy smile. The name suited her friend so much!

The rest of the ceremony went by in a blur, but Petalbreeze felt her stomach drop when Ratstar continued. Not because she didn't support her leader, but because she was worried about how some of the others would take the news. She could already feel her the anger rolling off her friend.

"Ratstar [Acro.]! Why leave the clan yourself? Why not send Vineheart instead?" Pinestorm asked bluntly.

[[Acro.]]

ooc:// These reactions are perfect, everybody! <3
TAGS: Falcon, ℓυиαя, Vinepool, Icestorm, Legit (just mentioning Sparrowleaf again) and @snowykcnomre - in regards to Dawnpaw, I'm so sorry that I totally forgot to announce that--it wasn't on my list and it kind of escaped me :c If you like, you can have Dawnpaw approach Ratstar afterwards and ask about being reinstated as a warrior =)


{Hope is the thing with feathers}

Ratstar allowed her news to settle, and she waited for the much-anticipated questions to start rolling in.

She didn't have to wait long.

The first came quietly, from one of the newest warriors, Flamestrike: "but what if the other leaders do not agree with you?"

Followed by a much franker declaration from another fresh inductee, Tigerhawk: "They'll kill you if you go out there."

And then a more seasoned warrior, Thornfrost, stepped forward: "So, you are intending on bringing the clans back together once more? What if the other leaders do not take kindly to you? Walking in with no one to defend you is mousebrained, Ratstar, and I only wish you would consider more support."

Next was a quiet question, seeded in confusion, from young Waspwing: "Um, Ratstar, what do you mean by leaving the clan for a little?"

Finally, Pinestorm stepped boldly forward to supply her own, wizened question: "Ratstar! Why leave the clan yourself? Why not send Vineheart instead?"

All of these questions, these concerns--they were all valid. And Ratstar knew, regardless of the tones or voices which spoke them, they were all based in something inherently good: concern for the well-being of SunsetClan. Concern for her. For or against her decision, at least Ratstar knew her Clan was together in spirit. Straightening up, the dappled leader lifted her voice again above the crowd, speaking with refined authority and careful consideration for each question posed to her, thus far. She did her best to squarely meet the eyes of each cat who had stepped forward, as she answered their individual questions for all to hear. "If the other leaders do not agree with me, then I will know now is not the time for such change in this world, and I will hold to the hope that I have at least lain the seed for future generations." Ratstar knew the gravity of what she would be asking--and she was not so ignorant to think that change as this would come easily.

but someone had to start the fire, or else nothing would ever burn.

Ratstar continued, able to address both Tigerhawk's and Thornfrost's concerns within one reply. "Just as I once asked of my Deputy, I ask of you all now: think carefully about these assumptions you may be making against the other leaders--of our neighbors. If we think they are ruthless savages, then, logically speaking, they are currently thinking the same of us. but do you see us--see me--as so cruel that we or I would do harm to another leader if they came to speak here? They may not take kindly to me being there, but I have no fear for my lives. For my message to be received, I must place as much trust and faith in them as I am asking them to place in me." She paused so her words could sink in, and then she added, "And I am only bringing Sparrowleaf as my escort because it is understood that Medicine Cats are a universal sign of peace; whereas warriors... they are signs of aggression--of war." And this is not how Ratstar wished to be received.

The leader went on, providing a bit more information to perhaps clarify the nature of her absence. "I will set out across the territories, speaking to each leader on their own terms. Some may ask that I stay for longer than others, to discuss my thoughts, and there may be delays, especially because I must be careful to only hunt on neutral ground, which will add more traveling time. All together, I believe this trip may take, perhaps half a moon. Diplomacy takes time, and I want to get it right."

And then, at last... why was she not sending Vineheart, in her place? Ratstar's whiskers twitched back in what almost could have been a smile, but her expression remained steady. "Vineheart's place is here. I cannot burden her with ideas that are weighted in my own heart. The other leaders know me--I believe they trust me in a way that only comes with time. I brought them together against Silverstar, and I brought them together against the Birds. At the very least, I have faith that they respect me enough to hear me." And, if something did go wrong... Ratstar had the lives to spare. Vineheart had only one.

{That perches in the soul}

[Icestorm]

Pinestorm watched her leader with cold eyes. Petalbreeze was scared of those eyes, she hated them because Pinestorm could get mean. "See she'll be fine."

The tabby didn't even look to her smaller friend. "I don't like it. I think it makes us look weak." She wasn't loud, but she wasn't trying to hide what she said either. The clan couldn't just have their two most important cats leave. It left them open and vulnerable. Not that the large warrior was denying Vineheart's or Mintpaw's abilities, but because she felt there were other ways to do it.

Petalbreeze let out a heavy sigh. She knew there was no way to stop Pinestorm from thinking that or even feeling that.

[ℓυиαя]

Tags: εℓιzαвεтн. for Tansypaw,

Standing there beneath Moonrock, Vineheart felt the weight of a thousand eyes on her, some angry, some concerned, many confused. She understood. When Ratstar had first asked her to express her opinion on the matter, she had been just as worried, just as unsure. What it had come down to was how much she trusted her leader.

Trust was going to be needed if they were going to get through this because, like it or not, Ratstar had made up her mind.

The deputy noted movement to her left and she turned her head slightly to see a young Tansypaw slinking her way forward, trying not to draw so much attention towards herself. Golden eyes softened from the almost impenetrable state they had taken up as the new apprentice came towards her. Vineheart knew the young cat from around the camp, stopping to get to know her once or twice. She was a sweet thing, that obviously had immense confidence to be making such a bold move on her own in front of Sunsetclan. Nodding to her, Vineheart shifted slightly to allow Tansypaw to sit next to her, purring in comfort and briefly touching her feathered tail to the younger cat.

I'm proud of you, the actions spoke silently.

Turning her attention back to the clan before her, Vineheart tuned back into the commotion of questions and confusion being flung at Ratstar above her. As the questions died down slowly, she listened carefully to what Ratstar had to say to each. Each reply was well thought out and answered the question however that didn't mean they were happy with the answers they received. Above the crowd, Vineheart locked eyes with Thornfrost and was almost burned with the intensity of his iced features. She knew him well from around camp, knew of his loyalty and to begin she was surprised he wasn't standing up there with them. He was younger than Sandstrike but older than a lot of the warriors gathered in the camp. He'd had more than his fair share of experiences but she could tell he had not been expecting this. The white, leopard spotted tom slashed his tail but dipped his head in response to his leader. For a while, his blue eyes cast along the line in front of Moonstone, white whiskers pulled back in displeasure, and it was unclear what he would do then. He seemed to be torn between standing by his leader and his concern for her safety and so he sat where he was.

His gaze was drawn from the cold tom as a question was raised from the crowd. "Ratstar! Why leave the clan yourself? Why not send Vineheart instead?" asked Pinestorm. They had a valid point and it was not one that Vineheart had thought of herself. When Ratstar had asked her for her opinion, her role had been described as sitting leader, a hard enough thing to get her head around. Would she be able to sit there with a warring clan and sort out everything with the calm and thoroughness that Ratstar had? Most of all, she wondered how her leader would answer this question and when Ratstar addressed the warrior, Vineheart listened as if her own question was being answered. Once again, the answer was fair and rational - Vineheart only hoped the rest of the clan saw it that way too. If that was Ratstar's thinking and intentions, Vineheart would do her work here to the best of her abilities and hopefully Ratstar's journey would be both swift and fruitful.

Vineheart cast a glance of the sandy tom beside her briefly, trying to gauge more of his reactions but it was so hard to tell. No doubt he would speak his opinion of this in private and away from the clan.

---

Never before had he been so torn between his loyalties. He knew more than many that being loyal wasn't just aggreeing with your loyalty but sometimes it was to oppose them if in their best interests. Ratstar was right in thinking that bringing along warriors would provide a tense and perhaps dangerous situation but there must be another alternative to what she was suggesting. He hated the thought of her going there practically alone into starclan knows what. Yes, the other clans would be thinking the same of them but sometimes there was something else - as was shown clearly with Silverstar. Sometimes the other leaders didn't think how you would expect them to.

His eyes cast along the line again, seeing Sandstrike with his stoic expression, Vineheart with her gentle acceptance, Tansypaw with a innocent determination. It was clear that Sandstrike was perhaps not the happiest tom today which made Thornfrost think about where he stood. Did he agree completely with what Ratstar was saying? No. Did he think improvements could be made, most definitely. That didn't mean he didn't support her and so with a stoic expression, the slender feline rose on long legs and wove his way through the crowd, seating himself next to Sandstrike and keeping his face masked.