Chapter 8: It's only a see you later
The day after the Trials was usually, Bel remembered, filled with a quiet, nervous energy, and this one seemed no different. The hopeful were supposed to convene on the main auditorium after their morning meditation and breakfast, and of course, this only heightened the anticipation. Clawmouse Clan in general was optimistic of their chances, and had unanimously decided to attend en masse to support Bink and Ta'gen. While not unheard of, non mandatory attendance meant most clans had a few members otherwise engaged while the apprenticeship ceremony was conducted. Even the smallest clawmice, however, were adamant on cheering for their older brother figures, and even if the testees themselves pretended to act aloof, their friend's love was a balm for their frayed nerves.
Breakfast was a quieter affair than usual, and a frugal one for many, too nervous to eat much, while morning meditations were an exercise in futility for Initiates awaiting their verdict. Considering their future was decided today, the teachers couldn't really begrudge them their distraction, even if they made a point of remarking on the Jedi values of discipline and self-restraint. And so, after a (frugal) breakfast and a (poorly performed) meditation session, they were wrangled into a line and headed towards the auditorium again, where all clans converged into the four entrances, quickly being ushered to the same areas they had occupied the day before.
A group of smiling Jedi occupied the central portion, clearly reminiscing about their own days in the clans, and the day they were chosen as well. They talked quietly among themselves, sharing anecdotes both personal and from the test the day before, waiting patiently as the younglings were seated. For a ceremony that happened every year, it certainly remained an special occasion, and it perhaps the most emotional event allowed to the Jedi until it was time for them to take a Padawan, at least. Of course, younglings were allowed more latitude, and few were the outward shows of emotion from the waiting Jedi.
After the younglings were seated, Master Jaune took the center stage and called them to attention with practiced ease. "All right then, children," laughter rippled among them as she looked sideways at the Jedi when she said that, and she waited until they quieted again. "The time for our next generation of Jedi to step forward is here, and we will do this in an orderly fashion, as we ever have. We will begin clan by clan, calling them in reverse alphabetical order. Please come down when your name is called, and meet the Jedi who would like to apprentice you." Children that knew what an "alphabetical order" was were about half of the total, and half again of that knew where that placed their clan in the list, so only a few disappointed groans and cheers rose up from the gallery. "Wolf Clan, will Bokni Hub please come down?" A proud looking Dyplotid skipped down the stairs, approaching the Master with a smile.
Beldorion smiled himself as he watched a couple of Knights debate on who would be able to take Initiate Bokni as an apprentice. He had shown himself to be a talented duelist, for an Inititate, even using a touch of Force telekinesis, a rare find in a youngling. Though he was quickly chosen, not all children were as lucky as to be fought over, of course, and some children were looked at with some skepticism, only being picked by some Knight or another after much consideration. Others still were encouraged to improve their skills before trying again, or directed to the Corps, which some took with better grace than others. The Jedi Corps were seen, after all, as an honorable charge... but a less glamourous one all the same. In any case, after what felt like hours, 9 clans had their go, and it was Clan Clawmouse's turn.
"Clawmouse Clan, will Bink Jorda please come down?" Master Beq's voice came to them, and Bink stood up, stiff as a board. The younger children cheered, while the older ones encouraged him in varying volumes. Almost sleepwalking, Bink went down the stairs until he reached the Jedi at the center. As Bel had expected, the three Jedi that had remarked on Bink the day before were conversing as he approached, trying to reach an accord before they began speaking to Bink. No agreement was reached, however, and they all walked to the youngling, introducing themselves. A short interview followed, where they took turns asking questions of him, getting to know him better and his interests. Finally, the Jedi Master, a near-human of a species Bel couldn't identify offhand, stepped forward and bowed to Bink, who bowed back. They talked briefly and then left for the eastern exit, where claimed Padawans went with their masters. Clawmouse erupted into cheers, while Ta'gen's smile could blind the sun itself.
Ta'gen's turn went by quickly, his Force healing having attracted some attention the day before. He was asked to demonstrate, as well as quizzed on his enhancement ability, and soon left smiling with a Petrusian Jedi Master that Beldorion vaguely recalled. Afterwards, only three Clans were left, and the remaining time went by quicker, after they were less emotionally invested. Surely they are as important to the Force as my friends were, Bel considered, but after all, I didn't know them. When the ceremony ended, they were led out to meditate, and he reflected on the non attachment creed spoused by the Temple. Getting us into the usual routine after they leave, not making a show of them leaving... it's all part of the strategy I think. He sighed, morose. And now to get everyone in shape for next year, and for however long I have left here... that Icia is gonna give me an ulcer. He smiled and continued his meditation, with a clearer mind.
Author's note:
Well, what do you know? It went as good as it could have. Now for our next chapter. Say goodbye to the new Padawans! Lil Fern was kind enough to read this and make some changes