Ranks
First Navigator|| The leader of Dustclan. Sometimes, this rank is shortened to "First."
Second Navigator|| The leader in training/second in command. Sometimes, this is shortened to "Second."
Ranger|| A cat's main goal is to provide in many ways. The term ranger is a moniker to show that these cats are more than just warriors, they are seasoned explorers and hunters as well.
Healer|| The average medicine cat.
Seer|| Healer who specializes in reading signs and omens. Sometimes there is little distinction between seers and healers.
Apprentice|| Those training to become rangers or healers. Apprentices learn basic fighting and healing skills before choosing one to focus on. All are taught how to hunt and survive.
Second Navigator|| The leader in training/second in command. Sometimes, this is shortened to "Second."
Ranger|| A cat's main goal is to provide in many ways. The term ranger is a moniker to show that these cats are more than just warriors, they are seasoned explorers and hunters as well.
Healer|| The average medicine cat.
Seer|| Healer who specializes in reading signs and omens. Sometimes there is little distinction between seers and healers.
Apprentice|| Those training to become rangers or healers. Apprentices learn basic fighting and healing skills before choosing one to focus on. All are taught how to hunt and survive.
Traditions
Names|| Names usually follow the clan cat standard and tend to be more descriptive of a location or time associated with a cat's birth and personality than based solely on their markings. Kits and apprentices typically go by a single name in Dustclan and do not add "kit" or "paw" to their name. On becoming a ranger, the cat chooses their own name, signifying their growth from kitten to adult. Usually, their warrior name incorporates their kitten name, but it does not have to and on some occasions is completely different.
Their kitten name might still be used by those that knew them well as a kit, such as their parents.
Their kitten name might still be used by those that knew them well as a kit, such as their parents.
Star Guides|| New Moons are especially important to the clan, as these are nights when the stars are most visible. The stars are respected as not only spiritual, but physical guides. On these occasions, the entire clan moves together, socializing, hunting and exploring a new section of their territory according to the Seer. New cats are taught how to navigate by the stars. Even kits and elders who are able come, though if any cannot, the Second will stay behind to ensure they are cared for.
For an apprentice to become a warrior, once they are deemed ready, they accompany their mentor to a remote part of the territory to discover their ranger name, both taking a temporary vow of silence for the journey. During this time, the apprentice is expected to hunt for both parties. The trip usually lasts a day in one direction but sometimes longer, depending on how long the apprentice needs to be inspired by some bit of the terrain to claim their name. Upon their return, they speak their full ranger name to the First and this ends their vow of silence. Usually most cats keep their initial name and only add the last part, but sometimes, they change their name all together and this is completely acceptable.