Ink: Living Life as Serena Gleis

LXVII: The Knighting Ceremony II

I've been in a knighting ceremony once as Serena back in Gleis. I was only a spectator back then, it was Augustus, my father was the one who leaded the ceremony.  I don't really know what to say nor I wanted to have a long and boring speech but it seems like it is a requirement for this kind of occasions.

Am I prepared?

Absolutely not.

“Here.” I was surprised when Zion tapped me in my arm and gave me an envelop — a parchment rather.  I gave him a questioning look and he just smiled as a response.  I opened the parchment and saw a whole script on what to say during a knighting ceremony. I probably need to give him my thanks later on. His knowledge in this official occasions were still superior to anyone here.

I stood infront of the podium, it wasn't the first time that I will face them but it was nerve-wracking for me as well. It just felt like, as time goes by, Clye has returning to its full glory once again. I looked around the hall, all of their attention was on me. Saw some familiar faces but the ones that stood out for me the most was the faces of the soon-to-be official knights of Clye. They all look excited, proud and determined. I can't  help but to be proud of them as well.

I cleared my throat, “My beloved people,
We gather here today to honor these individual before us.” I walked down the podium and stood before the knights where they knelt.

“Everyone have demonstrated exceptional courage, unwavering commitment, and a spirit of selflessness that embodies the true essence of knighthood. Your deeds inspire us all and serve as a beacon of honor and integrity.” I continued, releasing my sword from it's sheath.

“Kneel before me. In recognition of your extraordinary contributions and in the name of the virtues you uphold, I hereby dub thee our knights continue to serve with the same valor and nobility that has brought you to this moment. May you carry this title with pride, and may your actions continue to reflect the highest ideals of knighthood.” I said performing the traditional sword gesture to each and every knight, giving them one by one the medallion that I ordered to be custom-made for them.

As they stood up, the crowd erected in cheers. The newly-appointed knights hugged each other and went to their family. My heart melted with the sight of everyone, they are all happy and proud. This is what I wanted to see in Clye and nothing else.

Maurice and Zion has prepared a simple feast we ate together with everyone. Something that I haven't seen back in Gleis nor any celebrations I've been with in this world. It doesn't look like those fancy banquet, it is more like a fiesta.

“You look happy.” Azrael whispered as he stood beside me while I am watching everyone have fun.  “This is the first time I saw Maurice laugh and smile like that as well.” He added. My sight went to Maurice, he's with Varka and Zion. As Azrael said, he truly looks happy.

“How about you?” I asked.

He let out a deep sigh, his eyes wandering on the entirety of the hall. “It's nice but it is scary at the same time.” This is also the first time that Azrael is truthful on how he feels.

“What do you mean?"  I asked.

“Change is scary. One day it's just us then the blink of an eye, there's... them.” He said, still looking on a far distance.  I gently tapped his back in hopes of comforting him. I guess I haven't considered his feelings for so long, everything must've been so overwhelming for him.

“You're not alone now Az. Look at them. They are your people, your family.” I said and gave him a soft smile which he returned.

The feast ended on a positive note, the families of the knight as well as the Clyians who attended the ceremony has returned to the town, into their homes. Of course, the knights have stayed to help us clean the hall for a bit.