"Well," said Karida, "I suppose you could be a child carer. You've got the babies following you around like the pied piper already."
Kira considered, and wondered why she hadn't though of this before. At just turned 13, she'd decided overnight that she wasn't a child anymore, after all most apprenticeships began from 12 turns upwards, and she'd thought of possible vocations for some days before letting her foster-mother know her thoughts. Karida had known that Kira was contemplating something, but not exactly what. Obviously part of this was precipitated by Amaris gaining apprentice status in the Harper Hall. While Kira was adept (well more likely JUST competent) at playing several instruments, she somehow couldn'tsee herself in harper blue. Not that she wasn't a good listener or problem solver, in fact she excelled in these areas, but she wasn't one for travel – the very thought of living in various places temporarily when she'd been born and raised at the Harper Hall created a knot of anxiety in her stomach. No, she needed a firm base – somewhere she found comfortable.
But . . . a child carer. That was perfect. She'd be able to stay at the Hall, and spend valid time with the littlies she loved, as well as feel more grown up. It was the ideal solution.
Karida watched Kira's face light up with recognition, and wondered why it hadn't been obvious to the girl. She'd always had a hankering to care for those younger than her, especially the discarded ones. Maybe having never met her mother – no, being rejected by her mother for a prosperous alliance, had affected Kira more than anyone realised. Not to mention her father largely ignoring her, then settling on the other side of the planet as soon as he acquired journeyman status. Kira hadn't seen him since she was 4 turns old.
Kira had made her mind up. After breakfast, *straight* after breakfast, she'd see the headwoman and suggest her foster-mother's idea.
Part 2:
One and a half turns later
When she heard the drums Kira roused only momentarily, wondering if Amaris was on duty in the heights. She returned to her slumber, only to be awakened what seemed like minutes later by the morning sun slanting across the room, and the bustle of people outside.
There was an atmosphere of anticipation in the dining hall, with everyone chattering loudly but attentive A hush fell as Masterharper Chase entered, flanked by his journeymen, and strode to his table at the back of the hall.
"Now for the postings," Kira ignored his words, after all they didn't, wouldn't, pertain to her. She entertained herself with thoughts of her plans for the toddlers morning. First some painting, then a swim to clean up.
"Amaris." The name broke through her musings. Now what? She listened incredulously as her friend was made journeyman, watched as she was collected from her place beside Kira by two of the drum journeymen and escorted up to the main table.
Kira blinked back her tears. She was so proud. She smiled encouragingly at Amaris who was looking stunned.
After breakfast, she was helping clear the tables and thinking if she was a journeyman she wouldn't have to do this, when Amaris tapped her on the shoulder. She gave her friend a hug. "See you in a turn or so," she was saying.
Dismay flickered across Kira's face. "Where are you
going?" She must've missed that bit.
" A smallish hold two days from here," said Amaris,
"Isn't it great?"
"But you've only just made journeyman! You shouldn't get sent out so soon," she wailed, still not taking it in. How could her best friend leave? What would she do without her? They'd known each other all their lives!
Part 3:
On her 16th birthday
It had been a miserable day despite her coming of age, Kira thought. A drum message just for her from Amaris (which *was* flattering she supposed), a new gather dress from Karida, and several marks from Lel and Taye. Couldn't even be bothered to choose something they think I'd like, she thought with disgust. Oh well, the babies love me.
In fact it had been a miserable half turn for her, since Amaris had gone she'd gradually come to the realisation that she needed to grow up. People were going to go, perhaps she could be one of those ones without falling apart. Impulsively she darted down to the kitchen and sought out the Headwoman.
"Are there any vacancies in other holds for child carers?" she asked breathlessly.
"I don't think so."
Kira felt a wave of disappointment.
"But I know they need another one at the Weyr. They've been badgering me for ages, but I know you don't want to move. We're quite well thought of there, you know."
There she goes, thought Kira. Full of it as usual.
The thought must have come out in her face, as the Headwoman snapped "And you could do a whole lot worse!"
"What, you mean you'd let me go?" Kira asked incredulously as the mark dropped.
