Ashwings legacy

Chapter 3

   Ashpaw stood at the foot of the waterfall, beaming with joy as his five mentors stood before him. He was surrounded by Starclan cats from every era, he recognized most of them but there were a few faces he hadn't seen very often, but all of them had gathered for this. The very first Starclan warrior naming ceremony, and it was his.
   Thunderstar spoke first, his tail swishing as he dipped his head. "We, the founders, have watched over this apprentice in his journey to get here, and we recognize his dedication and hard work to understand our noble ways. We commend him as a warrior in his turn."
   Ashpaws eyes shone with excitement as Riverstar spoke next, "Ashpaw, do you promise to uphold the warrior code and to protect and guide the clans, even at the cost of your spirit?"
   Ashpaw took a deep breath and stood strait up, puffing out his chest as he spoke, "I do."
   Shadowstar stepped forward next and smiled warmly at him before speaking, "We have thought long and hard about what name to give you, and we've come to an agreement." She started.
   Ashpaw held her gaze with eyes full of affection and appreciation for all Shadowstar, the other founders, and his mother have done for him. "From this day forth, you will be known as Ashwing, as you exhibit the same strength, qualities, and passion as our dear friend, Gray Wing. Congratulations."
   She touched noses with him and Ashwing felt his heart soar as he heard the chorus of cheers from the star pelted cats in the crowd. They cheer his new name and he felt overjoyed at that moment. He nuzzled Shadowstars cheek and whispered over the yowls and cheers of the Starclan cats, "Thank you, for everything Shadowstar."
   Shadowstar nodded and looked at him with what he thought was love in her gaze. He stepped back and turned to face the chorus of cheering cats still honoring him, and at that moment, he felt as if he could do anything in the world.

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   Later that day, Ashwing sat alone in a clearing under the moonlight. He had celebrated his new name with all his friends, but wanted to enjoy some alone time, or rather, alone time with Shadowstar. As if he had summoned her with his thoughts, Shadowstar walked up from behind him and sat beside him, keeping a respectful but friendly distance. "Greetings Ashwing, how are you?" She asked, a soft smile playing at her features.
   Ashwing felt the familiar heat under his fur as he did when she was around. He smiled, returning her gaze. "I feel great. I've finally become a true warrior, and I've made my mother proud. I know it." He looked up at the night sky as he finished, thoughts of his mother flooded his mind once more.
   "I'm glad. I believe she is overjoyed at your accomplishments, wherever she may rest." She said, her voice silky and smooth, full of passion.
   He smiled, thinking about his mother always brought him joy, even though he never got the chance to meet her, he was eternally grateful for her sacrifice every day. As he gazed up into the sky, another thought crossed his mind. What do I do now? It had always been his goal to become a warrior, and now that he's achieved that, he began to wonder what his future held, was he destined to do nothing expect roam the stars? He had trained, and worked so hard for his strength and skill, but for what? He dropped his gaze to the grass below him and Shadowstar gently nudged him, likely sensing his tension. "Something on your mind, Ashwing?"
   Ashwing was broken from his thoughts and took a breath, deciding to confide in Shadowstar for advice. "It's just...what do I do now?" He started, "I've worked so hard for this but I feel like it's all going to waste."
   He paused, looking down at his paws. Shadowstar looked at him, thoughtfully tilting her head. "What makes you say that?" She asks sincerely.
   "Just think about it, I have all these skills but what am I going to use them for? Protecting a clan?" He says, looking up at Shadowstar.
   She had a small frown but looked as if she was thinking. Finally, she sighed in defeat, but gave a small smile. "I'm sure you'll have the chance to use your skills one day Ashwing."
   He nodded, appreciating her attempt to encourage him. "Thanks Shadowstar, I hope you're right."
   "Of course, anytime." She responded, standing and arching her back in a big stretch. "As much as I love talking with you, I think I'm going to go rest."
  Ashwings heart lurched as she turned and began walking away. He didn't want her to leave yet, he still had more things to say, but he didn't know how to say them. She took a few paces before stopping and looking back over her shoulder. "Unless... you want me to stay?" She says, shuffling her paws nervously.
   Ashpaw stiffened, his mind raced. Should he say yes? Should he tell her how he really felt? Could he tell her? These questions raced through his mind but he knew he couldn't just stand there in silence. "Oh, no, it's alright. I'm going to rest as well..." 
   You mousebrain! He scolded himself internally, he had just threw away his chance to talk with her more. Shadowstar smiled but looked a little disappointed. "Oh... alright then, have a good night Ashwing." She said as she turned and kept walking.
   "Y-yea, you too Shadowstar..." he stammered hopelessly.
   Ashwing watched her leave and gave a long sigh. That was definitely disappointment in her voice. He gazed back into the sky, wanting to yowl the words in his heart out for all to hear. I love you Shadowstar! But he couldn't make the words come out, instead just breathing another sigh. I'm one of the strongest, most skilled cats here, and yet I'm still a huge coward...