It was strange how only a moon ago he'd been dreading the news he would have to share, but for this moon he was excited. The clan would be gaining so many new warriors among their ranks, which without a doubt would boost their spirits. With Leafbare approaching them soon, it would be a relief to have more paws on board to gather resources. Especially with Akemi's kits on the way. However, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness. These apprentices had arrived from the shipyard. Perhaps they would be the last to experience and remember the way RiverClan had once lived. Future apprentices would only know of this life and nothing else. It has a notion that saddened him. However, it was something that couldn't be changed. Something they must adapt to.
Adapt they will. A river is always changing after all. Their sadness, happiness, frustration, everything would change in time. I wonder what RiverClan those kits will shape?
He clambered upon the meeting trunk and looked down to witness families grooming the fur of their children, friends laughing, and those who decided to stretch their limbs. A gentle smile curls from his lips as he takes in the scenery. It's only when he locks eyes with another warrior does he realize that some have already started to gather, as it was typical of him to start a meeting soon. With a nod he begins, "Everyone please gather around for this moon's meeting." A couple of minutes pass by as he waits for a good amount of cats to form a crowd.
"A lot has happened since our last meeting. We've had new faces around, especially those in the campground. They have not shown themselves to be dangerous. I've even heard of our warriors having a pleasant time with them. Some of those cats have expressed interest in joining our ranks. I have been considering it for some time now. With Leafbare approaching more mouths to feed is the last thing we need to consider, but we will also be gaining more paws to help around camp. Not to mention we will be having many new warriors this moon."
The disapproval from Frostmoth is to be expected. However, he could only hope that the young tom was pleased that no formal decision had been made. That he didn't act without talking to the council first. Especially when they had multiple discussions in this month particularly about apprentices and whether or not they should be made warriors. Only one apprentice has been made a source of great debate, but it was not due to their lack of skill. All of them were in agreement that this apprentice was more than ready. Capable. However… They all agreed that this apprentice needed more time to grieve. To be looked after.
"That being said, we have many assignments to get through, so let's get started." Where… Where should I start? He looks at the crowd of apprentices who are practically radiating excitement. Should I make them warriors first or should I bring up a tragedy first? His gaze trails to Jackdawpaw and then to Melodykit. Both of them have gone through so much. I've always talked about the good news first, so let's try and switch it around for this moon.
He returns his gaze to the plethora of apprentices who look like they're practically five seconds away from sprinting out of camp. "Galepaw, Torrentpaw, Iciclepaw, Twinklepaw, Sharkpaw, Sardinepaw, and Crescentpaw. Please step forward to receive your warrior names." Oh, how his heart ached. He thought he would be ready for when the time came, yet he finds his eyes watering nonetheless. Even though only one of them was his apprentice, he still felt pride for each and every single one of them.
"Galepaw. You are the swiftest apprentice RiverClan has seen thus far. You are also quick-witted. I often find myself at a loss at your answers, as they hold a wisdom beyond your age. Use this knowledge to better not only yourself, but to aid others. However, remember that you are still young. There is still much to learn and… What you wish for is not truly out of reach. You simply need to run to it first." Out of respect for the younger tom he doesn't outright share with the clan what Gale desires most. It is not up to him to tell, but he felt it necessary to remind them he hadn't forgotten what was shared. That despite the responsibilities of the clan making their time together limited, he still saw them. "From this moment on you will be known as Galerunner." Was it an acceptable name? It was difficult to tell from the lack of reaction he had been given.
Is he mad? Stars, I can never really tell with him. Although… The leader smirks. "A river is always changing. No matter how much you try to stop it, the river will keep flowing. Sometimes it can even change the path it flows from. I'd say we aren't that much different from the river. I'll strive to continuously adapt like the river to whatever is thrown my way. That is how I'll allow myself to be." This is how animal I want to be. I found my answer, Galerunner. Now it's time for you to find yours. "A journey begins with the first step. Remember that."
Pikestar does not wait for the lanky warrior to scowl. While his words were wise, the others did not know how biting they could be to Galerunner. It was meant to be. Pikestar had thought long and hard about what to say, seeing as the pale warrior despite all his wisdom was still very much a kit demanding attention. For so long he had failed the warrior and because of this failure… The warrior in front of him still hadn't taken his first step. He was just a child who needed a nudge. For someone to see him as he was. All he could hope was that Galerunner didn't take his words as an insult. The wisdom passed down to him was meant to encourage them.
Nevertheless, Galerunner was not the only one to receive their warrior name for this meeting. He needed to move on.
"Torrentpaw. From the very beginning before apprentices were a thing, and when we were in the shipyard, you asked me what you should do to help this clan. I told you to seek training from Pineheart and you did so without question. You have always shown care for your clanmates and dedicated yourself to training in order to better help those you care about. There is bravery in that. You were aware you were a child, and yet you still wanted nothing more than to help. Even when things became difficult you were always there to rally your fellow apprentices or seek answers despite knowing risks you'll take."
"Your new name will be Torrentsky." His ears flicked at the murmurs of some cats. It was to be expected. After all, their clan had a complicated relationship with SkyClan. Even if he personally had a good relationship with some members of SkyClan, he wouldn't be naming the new warrior after their neighbor. He was not in the business of looking for approval from another clan. "When all seems lost, especially in the darkness we look to the sky. The stars shining brightly there guide us back home. I name you Torrentsky because I believe you will guide those in need without a second thought." Whatever opinions the rest of the clan held towards the name was none of his concern. The only thing he needed to worry about was the look on Torrentsky's face, and from the smile sent his way… Looks like I did alright.
With a smile he tilts his head to his son. Tears threaten to spill from his eyes. No matter how much he longs to hold the white apprentice, he can't. At this moment Iciclepaw is nothing more than an apprentice waiting for his warrior name. When this is all over he can go hug his son as tightly as he wants. "Iciclepaw. It's still a mystery to me how you managed to sneak into our group or survive for so long on your lonesome. Perhaps none of us will ever truly know. However, that is not what's most important. What is, is that you have continued to persist despite your unease. It is much easier to give up, and yet you never did. It was difficult. I wondered for some time if you would remain in your shell, but as the moons passed I began to see a young tom leaving behind that shell. Bit by bit he led with kindness and slowly began to find his place in this clan."
It was bittersweet to recall the times when his son was much smaller, when he hid behind his legs. It was impossible to do so now. The boy was too big and even if he tried to hide behind Pikestar, everyone could still see him. "Iciclewish will be your warrior name. You have learned the skills to be a warrior, but you need to believe in yourself. Even if there is still much to learn, it is my wish that you can finally see how capable and brave you are. Hold your head high, don't fear the unknown. Take a moment. Breathe. Remember all that you've learned and then decide what's the best course of action. Don't forget you aren't alone either. All you have to do is ask."
Pikestar remains silent for a short moment, before tilting his head to another apprentice waiting for their warrior name.
"Twinklepaw. Not only have you proven yourself in learning the skills required to become a warrior, you have decided to become a weaver. While I am no weaver myself and have only dabbled in fashion, I am aware of how challenging it is." To this day I can't make a flowercrown without messing up the first one, or working super slow. I just don't know how you all do it! And so easy too! "Not only are you adept with your paws, you are honest. Even when it is easy to lie, it's as if the thought never crossed your mind. It is a mark of wisdom to admit when you may not know something. Due to this honesty you have learned more from your mentor, and lately you've been seen helping younger apprentices weave."
A gentle smile curls from his lips. "With all this in consideration, your new name will be Twinkletuft." It is a name he thought suited her due to how her pelt shone. She had a bright future and he wished it would continue to remain that way for quite some time. "Even though you are now a weaver, don't stop learning. Keep your earnest spirit and continue to soak up knowledge and be willing to share it with others."
Is this really half of them? I knew a lot of them were going to become warriors, but I'm starting to get thirsty from talking so much. I… I really want to take a break and get water. Frostmoth would kill me though. AHHH! TOUGH IT OUT! You got this Pike!
"Sharkpaw." The grown tom is replaced with his kittenlike self. A memory of the little kit biting his tail comes to mind, causing the leader to chuff. "I remember when you used to bite me many moons ago. I hoped you'd grow out of it, but it seems like you haven't." It's a little joke sent the future warrior's way, one he knows they wouldn't appreciate. Not wanting to face their wrath, he continues, "I may tease you for it, but I have admired your ambition. Many moons I have watched you tirelessly train with other apprentices and spar with many warriors. With each warrior you sparred with… Every loss you faced, I watched as you practiced what moves they had made to better yourself. Even though there were some disagreements between you and your peers, it's clear that you are loyal to this clan. Remember that your fierceness is not just a weapon. It can be used to protect those you hold dear. For these reasons, your warrior name will be Sharkfrenzy."
A daunting name without a doubt. He can imagine cats of other clans still from fear hearing the name Sharkfrenzy alone. It was not his intention, but he supposed this was one thing Sharkfrenzy would love about his new name. However, the origin of his name came from love. He'd seen how close the warrior was with the newly named Torrentsky. Should anything happen to that warrior… He has no doubts that Sharkfrenzy would do everything in his power to seek retribution. Green eyes linger into blue. "Be mindful of your emotions."
"Sardinepaw. Ever since you were little, you were always around spreading your enthusiasm. Whenever there was someone upset you always lended a paw and tried to make them smile. Always looking at the bright side of things, no matter how daunting they seem. Something that I, even as your leader, struggle with. However, I want you to remember that you are never alone. You may be the source of happiness for others, but this doesn't mean you have to be all the time. Lean on someone's shoulder from time to time." He takes a pause with a smile, "Your warrior name will be Sardineskip. Continue spreading your joy, but remember to leave room for sadness." There is some truth within this wisdom. All he could hope is that Sardineskip would find an answer that satisfies him. One day you might face a terrible loss. A smile alone won't be able to fix it.
He moves on to the white apprentice. The very last apprentice to be made a warrior.
"Crescentpaw." It was difficult to even call their name. Not because they had done something so horrible, but because he was reminded of someone who was missing. A brown tom who would be beyond proud to see their child become a warrior. Do you know how much they've endured because of your actions? How many glares were sent their way? He shakes his head. This is not the time to be thinking of you. Pink eyes looked back at him patiently. "You have endured much silently, but your silence is not out of fear. The understanding within you is to be envied. No matter how much has been thrown your way due to circumstances out of your control, not once have you faltered. For all these reasons and more, your warrior name will be Crescentmoon."
Crescentmoon. A name not of song nor of gnashing fangs. Although not said, he only wished for her to carve a path of her own. "The moon is hidden from us in the day, but appears in the night. No matter how much the darkness tries to snuff its light, the moon remains. Much like you Crescentmoon. Continue shining, even when others struggle to take notice."
There was no need for him to offer them additional words of wisdom. He knows this. Perhaps many cats found it tiring to hear of it, but as he interacted with the children and faced the consequences of his mistakes… It became clear. Even more so with excluding Thunderpaw from becoming a warrior alongside her brother. The reality was that RiverClan had failed these children. While they had the survival skills required of a warrior, they still needed some guidance in other matters. Even if they decided never to reach out to an older warrior, at the very least they had his words and each other to look after. Growing up was not quite clear cut nor easy after all.
"That's all of our new warriors for this moon."
His gaze trails to Thunderpaw. Taking in the look of betrayal. If this had been the past, he would've avoided her entirely. However, he was tired of running. Making her wait was not done out of punishment. It was done in an effort to amend their poor care towards the children of RiverClan. Would it fix everything? No, but it was a start. We talked about this. She wasn't going to be happy about this decision, and we all knew it. All we can do is move forward.
"We will move onto some name changes."
He tears his gaze away from Thunderpaw and directs it to Akemi who rests near the medicine cat den. "Akemi is one of the newer faces within our clan. She has approached me and asked for a clan name. One that starts with Warm. Normally, a new joiner would go through training under a warrior for a moon, but Akemi is unable to. She's made it clear that she has no intentions of leaving the clan once the kits are born and have grown. Considering it will take some time before she can fully undergo training, I have decided to accept this request." There may be some who would be unhappy about this decision and he's more than aware of it. Even his own siblings were going through training. Brook might be peeved about this. "Akemi, your new name will be Warmglow. Despite being here for a short while, you have shown yourself to be amiable towards others. Going as far as asking permission to eat fish." It's a little jest, one he hopes is not too great of an offence.
The last name change is one he is wary of. He even asked Jinglemoon to bring the kit from the medicine cat den for this meeting. When asked why… He made it abundantly clear what it is he intended to do. The hesitance he was met was enough. After explaining, Jinglemoon agreed to it. He is prepared for the clan to question him. Especially after everything Melodykit had endured. It would seem cruel of him to do this to her. He looks at the injured kit by Jinglemoon's side. Said medicine cat looks at him with a questioning glance, as if to say is he truly certain this is worth it?
"Our last name change is going to be a questionable one. However, I don't intend this name to be a cruel one." The crowd is puzzled. Rightfully so. "As you all know one of our kits, Melodykit, was attacked by a dog. Jinglemoon worked tirelessly to ensure her recovery. Her recovery will be a long journey." I'm not talking about her wounds. I doubt she would get over nearly being killed by a dog so easily.
Pikestar turns towards Melodykit. "It was scary, wasn't it? It's okay to be afraid. I… I will change your name to Howlingkit. To show how strong and brave you are." How should he explain this? In a way that she would understand? In a way that didn't mean punishment? "Did you know dogs howl? One day, when you're bigger and stronger, you're going to howl back at any dog that comes your way. That's what I hope. This is what your new name means. Bravery and strength in the face of super scary dogs." Of course. It was to be expected he would go about it this way. However, he was talking to a kit. There was only so much he could say or do to make her understand the extent of his hopes for her.
Awkwardly, he presses on to the next matter of business. "We have lost an honorable warrior. A warrior who sacrificed their life for their apprentice. Mudpool would speak happily of Jackdawpaw's progress. I've seen many warriors who are proud of the strides their apprentice has made, but Mudpool practically beamed in pride whenever we spoke alone. I'm also sure they might have made some warriors roll their eyes when they spoke of what Jackdawpaw had done for the day. I'm sure they have no regrets in their decision." Please don't blame yourself. Mudpool would be sad to see you this way. They always loved it when you smiled, so try to smile when you can.
A bout of silence passes.
"Knowing that Mudpool would love to see their apprentice continue training, I have asked who would be ideal in taking on Jackdawpaw. Who would carry out Mudpool's wishes the best, and I found there is only one warrior who fits." The silver tom looks for a blue molly. "Lichentuft, you will continue Jackdawpaw's training."
Another bout of silence passes.
"That is all for this meeting." With that, he descends from the meeting stump. Where to? To drink some water from the river surrounding camp.
Adapt they will. A river is always changing after all. Their sadness, happiness, frustration, everything would change in time. I wonder what RiverClan those kits will shape?
He clambered upon the meeting trunk and looked down to witness families grooming the fur of their children, friends laughing, and those who decided to stretch their limbs. A gentle smile curls from his lips as he takes in the scenery. It's only when he locks eyes with another warrior does he realize that some have already started to gather, as it was typical of him to start a meeting soon. With a nod he begins, "Everyone please gather around for this moon's meeting." A couple of minutes pass by as he waits for a good amount of cats to form a crowd.
"A lot has happened since our last meeting. We've had new faces around, especially those in the campground. They have not shown themselves to be dangerous. I've even heard of our warriors having a pleasant time with them. Some of those cats have expressed interest in joining our ranks. I have been considering it for some time now. With Leafbare approaching more mouths to feed is the last thing we need to consider, but we will also be gaining more paws to help around camp. Not to mention we will be having many new warriors this moon."
The disapproval from Frostmoth is to be expected. However, he could only hope that the young tom was pleased that no formal decision had been made. That he didn't act without talking to the council first. Especially when they had multiple discussions in this month particularly about apprentices and whether or not they should be made warriors. Only one apprentice has been made a source of great debate, but it was not due to their lack of skill. All of them were in agreement that this apprentice was more than ready. Capable. However… They all agreed that this apprentice needed more time to grieve. To be looked after.
"That being said, we have many assignments to get through, so let's get started." Where… Where should I start? He looks at the crowd of apprentices who are practically radiating excitement. Should I make them warriors first or should I bring up a tragedy first? His gaze trails to Jackdawpaw and then to Melodykit. Both of them have gone through so much. I've always talked about the good news first, so let's try and switch it around for this moon.
He returns his gaze to the plethora of apprentices who look like they're practically five seconds away from sprinting out of camp. "Galepaw, Torrentpaw, Iciclepaw, Twinklepaw, Sharkpaw, Sardinepaw, and Crescentpaw. Please step forward to receive your warrior names." Oh, how his heart ached. He thought he would be ready for when the time came, yet he finds his eyes watering nonetheless. Even though only one of them was his apprentice, he still felt pride for each and every single one of them.
"Galepaw. You are the swiftest apprentice RiverClan has seen thus far. You are also quick-witted. I often find myself at a loss at your answers, as they hold a wisdom beyond your age. Use this knowledge to better not only yourself, but to aid others. However, remember that you are still young. There is still much to learn and… What you wish for is not truly out of reach. You simply need to run to it first." Out of respect for the younger tom he doesn't outright share with the clan what Gale desires most. It is not up to him to tell, but he felt it necessary to remind them he hadn't forgotten what was shared. That despite the responsibilities of the clan making their time together limited, he still saw them. "From this moment on you will be known as Galerunner." Was it an acceptable name? It was difficult to tell from the lack of reaction he had been given.
Is he mad? Stars, I can never really tell with him. Although… The leader smirks. "A river is always changing. No matter how much you try to stop it, the river will keep flowing. Sometimes it can even change the path it flows from. I'd say we aren't that much different from the river. I'll strive to continuously adapt like the river to whatever is thrown my way. That is how I'll allow myself to be." This is how animal I want to be. I found my answer, Galerunner. Now it's time for you to find yours. "A journey begins with the first step. Remember that."
Pikestar does not wait for the lanky warrior to scowl. While his words were wise, the others did not know how biting they could be to Galerunner. It was meant to be. Pikestar had thought long and hard about what to say, seeing as the pale warrior despite all his wisdom was still very much a kit demanding attention. For so long he had failed the warrior and because of this failure… The warrior in front of him still hadn't taken his first step. He was just a child who needed a nudge. For someone to see him as he was. All he could hope was that Galerunner didn't take his words as an insult. The wisdom passed down to him was meant to encourage them.
Nevertheless, Galerunner was not the only one to receive their warrior name for this meeting. He needed to move on.
"Torrentpaw. From the very beginning before apprentices were a thing, and when we were in the shipyard, you asked me what you should do to help this clan. I told you to seek training from Pineheart and you did so without question. You have always shown care for your clanmates and dedicated yourself to training in order to better help those you care about. There is bravery in that. You were aware you were a child, and yet you still wanted nothing more than to help. Even when things became difficult you were always there to rally your fellow apprentices or seek answers despite knowing risks you'll take."
"Your new name will be Torrentsky." His ears flicked at the murmurs of some cats. It was to be expected. After all, their clan had a complicated relationship with SkyClan. Even if he personally had a good relationship with some members of SkyClan, he wouldn't be naming the new warrior after their neighbor. He was not in the business of looking for approval from another clan. "When all seems lost, especially in the darkness we look to the sky. The stars shining brightly there guide us back home. I name you Torrentsky because I believe you will guide those in need without a second thought." Whatever opinions the rest of the clan held towards the name was none of his concern. The only thing he needed to worry about was the look on Torrentsky's face, and from the smile sent his way… Looks like I did alright.
With a smile he tilts his head to his son. Tears threaten to spill from his eyes. No matter how much he longs to hold the white apprentice, he can't. At this moment Iciclepaw is nothing more than an apprentice waiting for his warrior name. When this is all over he can go hug his son as tightly as he wants. "Iciclepaw. It's still a mystery to me how you managed to sneak into our group or survive for so long on your lonesome. Perhaps none of us will ever truly know. However, that is not what's most important. What is, is that you have continued to persist despite your unease. It is much easier to give up, and yet you never did. It was difficult. I wondered for some time if you would remain in your shell, but as the moons passed I began to see a young tom leaving behind that shell. Bit by bit he led with kindness and slowly began to find his place in this clan."
It was bittersweet to recall the times when his son was much smaller, when he hid behind his legs. It was impossible to do so now. The boy was too big and even if he tried to hide behind Pikestar, everyone could still see him. "Iciclewish will be your warrior name. You have learned the skills to be a warrior, but you need to believe in yourself. Even if there is still much to learn, it is my wish that you can finally see how capable and brave you are. Hold your head high, don't fear the unknown. Take a moment. Breathe. Remember all that you've learned and then decide what's the best course of action. Don't forget you aren't alone either. All you have to do is ask."
Pikestar remains silent for a short moment, before tilting his head to another apprentice waiting for their warrior name.
"Twinklepaw. Not only have you proven yourself in learning the skills required to become a warrior, you have decided to become a weaver. While I am no weaver myself and have only dabbled in fashion, I am aware of how challenging it is." To this day I can't make a flowercrown without messing up the first one, or working super slow. I just don't know how you all do it! And so easy too! "Not only are you adept with your paws, you are honest. Even when it is easy to lie, it's as if the thought never crossed your mind. It is a mark of wisdom to admit when you may not know something. Due to this honesty you have learned more from your mentor, and lately you've been seen helping younger apprentices weave."
A gentle smile curls from his lips. "With all this in consideration, your new name will be Twinkletuft." It is a name he thought suited her due to how her pelt shone. She had a bright future and he wished it would continue to remain that way for quite some time. "Even though you are now a weaver, don't stop learning. Keep your earnest spirit and continue to soak up knowledge and be willing to share it with others."
Is this really half of them? I knew a lot of them were going to become warriors, but I'm starting to get thirsty from talking so much. I… I really want to take a break and get water. Frostmoth would kill me though. AHHH! TOUGH IT OUT! You got this Pike!
"Sharkpaw." The grown tom is replaced with his kittenlike self. A memory of the little kit biting his tail comes to mind, causing the leader to chuff. "I remember when you used to bite me many moons ago. I hoped you'd grow out of it, but it seems like you haven't." It's a little joke sent the future warrior's way, one he knows they wouldn't appreciate. Not wanting to face their wrath, he continues, "I may tease you for it, but I have admired your ambition. Many moons I have watched you tirelessly train with other apprentices and spar with many warriors. With each warrior you sparred with… Every loss you faced, I watched as you practiced what moves they had made to better yourself. Even though there were some disagreements between you and your peers, it's clear that you are loyal to this clan. Remember that your fierceness is not just a weapon. It can be used to protect those you hold dear. For these reasons, your warrior name will be Sharkfrenzy."
A daunting name without a doubt. He can imagine cats of other clans still from fear hearing the name Sharkfrenzy alone. It was not his intention, but he supposed this was one thing Sharkfrenzy would love about his new name. However, the origin of his name came from love. He'd seen how close the warrior was with the newly named Torrentsky. Should anything happen to that warrior… He has no doubts that Sharkfrenzy would do everything in his power to seek retribution. Green eyes linger into blue. "Be mindful of your emotions."
"Sardinepaw. Ever since you were little, you were always around spreading your enthusiasm. Whenever there was someone upset you always lended a paw and tried to make them smile. Always looking at the bright side of things, no matter how daunting they seem. Something that I, even as your leader, struggle with. However, I want you to remember that you are never alone. You may be the source of happiness for others, but this doesn't mean you have to be all the time. Lean on someone's shoulder from time to time." He takes a pause with a smile, "Your warrior name will be Sardineskip. Continue spreading your joy, but remember to leave room for sadness." There is some truth within this wisdom. All he could hope is that Sardineskip would find an answer that satisfies him. One day you might face a terrible loss. A smile alone won't be able to fix it.
He moves on to the white apprentice. The very last apprentice to be made a warrior.
"Crescentpaw." It was difficult to even call their name. Not because they had done something so horrible, but because he was reminded of someone who was missing. A brown tom who would be beyond proud to see their child become a warrior. Do you know how much they've endured because of your actions? How many glares were sent their way? He shakes his head. This is not the time to be thinking of you. Pink eyes looked back at him patiently. "You have endured much silently, but your silence is not out of fear. The understanding within you is to be envied. No matter how much has been thrown your way due to circumstances out of your control, not once have you faltered. For all these reasons and more, your warrior name will be Crescentmoon."
Crescentmoon. A name not of song nor of gnashing fangs. Although not said, he only wished for her to carve a path of her own. "The moon is hidden from us in the day, but appears in the night. No matter how much the darkness tries to snuff its light, the moon remains. Much like you Crescentmoon. Continue shining, even when others struggle to take notice."
There was no need for him to offer them additional words of wisdom. He knows this. Perhaps many cats found it tiring to hear of it, but as he interacted with the children and faced the consequences of his mistakes… It became clear. Even more so with excluding Thunderpaw from becoming a warrior alongside her brother. The reality was that RiverClan had failed these children. While they had the survival skills required of a warrior, they still needed some guidance in other matters. Even if they decided never to reach out to an older warrior, at the very least they had his words and each other to look after. Growing up was not quite clear cut nor easy after all.
"That's all of our new warriors for this moon."
His gaze trails to Thunderpaw. Taking in the look of betrayal. If this had been the past, he would've avoided her entirely. However, he was tired of running. Making her wait was not done out of punishment. It was done in an effort to amend their poor care towards the children of RiverClan. Would it fix everything? No, but it was a start. We talked about this. She wasn't going to be happy about this decision, and we all knew it. All we can do is move forward.
"We will move onto some name changes."
He tears his gaze away from Thunderpaw and directs it to Akemi who rests near the medicine cat den. "Akemi is one of the newer faces within our clan. She has approached me and asked for a clan name. One that starts with Warm. Normally, a new joiner would go through training under a warrior for a moon, but Akemi is unable to. She's made it clear that she has no intentions of leaving the clan once the kits are born and have grown. Considering it will take some time before she can fully undergo training, I have decided to accept this request." There may be some who would be unhappy about this decision and he's more than aware of it. Even his own siblings were going through training. Brook might be peeved about this. "Akemi, your new name will be Warmglow. Despite being here for a short while, you have shown yourself to be amiable towards others. Going as far as asking permission to eat fish." It's a little jest, one he hopes is not too great of an offence.
The last name change is one he is wary of. He even asked Jinglemoon to bring the kit from the medicine cat den for this meeting. When asked why… He made it abundantly clear what it is he intended to do. The hesitance he was met was enough. After explaining, Jinglemoon agreed to it. He is prepared for the clan to question him. Especially after everything Melodykit had endured. It would seem cruel of him to do this to her. He looks at the injured kit by Jinglemoon's side. Said medicine cat looks at him with a questioning glance, as if to say is he truly certain this is worth it?
"Our last name change is going to be a questionable one. However, I don't intend this name to be a cruel one." The crowd is puzzled. Rightfully so. "As you all know one of our kits, Melodykit, was attacked by a dog. Jinglemoon worked tirelessly to ensure her recovery. Her recovery will be a long journey." I'm not talking about her wounds. I doubt she would get over nearly being killed by a dog so easily.
Pikestar turns towards Melodykit. "It was scary, wasn't it? It's okay to be afraid. I… I will change your name to Howlingkit. To show how strong and brave you are." How should he explain this? In a way that she would understand? In a way that didn't mean punishment? "Did you know dogs howl? One day, when you're bigger and stronger, you're going to howl back at any dog that comes your way. That's what I hope. This is what your new name means. Bravery and strength in the face of super scary dogs." Of course. It was to be expected he would go about it this way. However, he was talking to a kit. There was only so much he could say or do to make her understand the extent of his hopes for her.
Awkwardly, he presses on to the next matter of business. "We have lost an honorable warrior. A warrior who sacrificed their life for their apprentice. Mudpool would speak happily of Jackdawpaw's progress. I've seen many warriors who are proud of the strides their apprentice has made, but Mudpool practically beamed in pride whenever we spoke alone. I'm also sure they might have made some warriors roll their eyes when they spoke of what Jackdawpaw had done for the day. I'm sure they have no regrets in their decision." Please don't blame yourself. Mudpool would be sad to see you this way. They always loved it when you smiled, so try to smile when you can.
A bout of silence passes.
"Knowing that Mudpool would love to see their apprentice continue training, I have asked who would be ideal in taking on Jackdawpaw. Who would carry out Mudpool's wishes the best, and I found there is only one warrior who fits." The silver tom looks for a blue molly. "Lichentuft, you will continue Jackdawpaw's training."
Another bout of silence passes.
"That is all for this meeting." With that, he descends from the meeting stump. Where to? To drink some water from the river surrounding camp.
-
THIS IS A LONG MEETING I KNOW!!! Which is why it's a scrollable post so you aren't hit with a scroll of text. HERE'S WHAT'S ON THE MEETING AGENDA
NEW WARRIORS:
— Galepaw -> Galerunner
— Torrentpaw -> Torrentsky
— Iciclepaw -> Iciclewish
— Twinklepaw -> Twinkletuft
— Sharkpaw -> Sharkfrenzy
— Sardinepaw -> Sardineskip
— Crescentpaw -> Crescentmoon
NAME CHANGES:
— Akemi -> Warmglow
— Melodykit -> Howlingkit
REASSIGNMENTS:
— Jackdawpaw -> Lichentuft -
PIKESTAR— leader of riverclan, former shipyard cat
♱ 43 moons — he/him — ages realistically on the 1st — mentoring iciclepaw
♱ speech is"#36D9AB"— thoughts are italics — attacks are underlined
♱ short haired silver mackerel tabby with green eyes
♱ peaceful & healing powerplay permitted — underline & tag when attacking
♱ penned by velou — kasaven on discord — open to plots & dms
