Shadow of the Unicorn

Chapter 8

The following day, Jace discovered exactly what it was his peculiar adventure had earned him, at least academically. The room was used primarily for the advanced students of theology, philosophy, and the related arts, most of whom were or would one day become Apprentices of the Brethren. He was heartened to find Adan in several of his classes, an occurrence which had become rare of late, as their interests and future intentions had sharply diverged and thus, so did their classes. They worked together on several projects, discussed what it was they had learned that day over their meals, and exchanged books and notes that they found interesting or helpful. And strangely, Jace had never been more eager or interested in his studies before, though he had previously been an exemplary student; now he found himself ravenous for anything and everything he could learn from his teachers, friends, or books. Happily did he undertake the Lady's suggestions and found himself quite content therein.

But the strangest occurrence of the day was a newly sworn Apprentice, called Hawk, lingering in the room after the last class session before lunch. While Adan went off to fetch food for the both of them, the other Apprentice stood awkwardly off to one side, as if unsure how to approach his onetime rival. Jace caught his eye and smiled openly, which did much to relax the apprehensive Hawk, who then approached with a sheepish smile.

Said he, glancing about to ensure they were alone, "I know we have not always seen eye to eye."

Jace grinned ironically at this understatement, for the boy was the veritable leader of the cohort of Students that had either ignored or abhorred him. Jace had never openly opposed them, but they disdained having anything to do with him, one way or another, and he happily returned the favor. He nodded encouragingly, while the Apprentice studied his boots for a moment before continuing.

Said he, "yesterday everything changed, not just with my taking the Oath or your seeming change of heart, but rather, when we thought you severely injured, or worse, it all just melted away, for all of us, the jealousy, the impotent frustration, everything. We knew ourselves in the wrong, wretchedly so, and to think we might never have a chance to tell you! It was awful."

Jace nodded, "I understand, after seeing what my own recklessness had cost my friends and family, I can certainly imagine how you felt."

Heartened, Hawk continued, "you never boasted or treated others with disdain or scorn, thus you might have earned our contempt, but rather we were mostly jealous, our own vanity was injured by your success, and we held you responsible for our feelings of inferiority, though it was no fault of yours. I come on behalf of all who once opposed you, can you forgive us?"

Jace smiled broadly, "with all my heart." His smile became wry, "I can relate, for only yesterday did I fully feel my own inferiority and helplessness, naked before the Master."

Hawk shivered, "I am glad we need only be humbled before a fellow man!"

Jace asked teasingly, "so, was this contrition also brought on by your new status as one of the Brethren?"

Hawk smiled heartily, "I suppose it is befitting of one of the Brethren to do so," he paused and his smile turned sheepish, "but no, I cannot say it was brought about by any sudden maturity on my part."

They chatted affably for a few more minutes, until Adan returned with their food, at which point Hawk bowed in farewell and went in search of his own midday meal. Adan was astonished at the reason for the other Apprentice's visit and said as much to Jace, "I think your previous social achievements are about to be turned on their head. Those who once looked at you askance will now call you friend, while those that once looked up to you will soon forget why," he grinned impishly, "fanatic that you are." He narrowed his eyes, "have you thought of making it official?"