DATAFILE:
Initiation into the Order
To take up the mantle of a Guardian is no easy task, and is offered only to a select few within the Empire. Hailing from any number of worlds and peoples, Guardians across the galaxy typically share common origins and experiences within their early years.
THE SPARK
Most Guardians are made aware of their Radiant nature by an event known colloquially as a “Spark.” Such an event is characterized by a sudden and uncontrolled release of power within The Light, usually at a time of heightened emotion. For some, this might be the levitation of a falling rock to save a friend, a word of foresight to calm an upset stranger, or the inexplicable quieting of a rampaging beast. Each incident is largely random and does not necessarily correlate to any future calling toward a particular sect. While most individuals experience their Spark as young adults, such an event can occur at any age. There are countless cases of young children – even infants – and the elderly experiencing their powers in The Light for the first time.
For those whose family has little experience with Radiance, a Spark can be an intimidating time. For so-called “legacy” families – where powers in The Light have been consistently passed on – a Spark is a time of celebration and excitement. Failing to experience one can even be a point of shame and disappointment.
When they occur, “Spark” events can be reported to the Order’s Bureau of Radiance. The Bureau, once notified, will reach out to local academies to send a representative to investigate the incident and the individual who caused it. Cognitive and physical tests are often administered, monitoring for sensitivity to The Light. If the individual is found to be Radiant, they will be welcomed by the Order and permitted to attend a training academy immediately. Because some powerful members of the Ordo Venefari can detect Radiant individuals on their own, there are also many instances where individuals are recruited to The Order even before their Spark occurs.
A BLESSING OR A CURSE
The occurrence of a Spark is welcomed by many individuals, though certainly not all. Many downtrodden families and even some legacy families have even faked Spark events to attract the attention of The Order towards their children. After all, becoming a Guardian means a life of honor, prestige, and significant influence. On the other hand, some attempt to downplay or even cover up their Spark, fearing the consequences of a life dedicated to the Order. While the Order does not forbid marital relationships or family, to join the Order often means the reprioritization of these aspects of life in favor of one’s dedication to The Light. Past careers must be abandoned as well, which for some proves a pill too big to swallow.
Individuals can choose to refuse The Order’s invitation but to do so is often less than ideal. Radiant individuals who refuse to join the Order are monitored intensely by the Empire. Undisciplined powers in The Light are considered a significant threat, and imperial forces keep a close eye on would-be rogue Radiants. In some cultures, failure to take up one’s responsibilities as a Guardian is considered shameful and selfish. In more traditional communities – where respect for the Guardians is not yet established – Radiant individuals outside the safety of the Order’s ranks are still seen as freaks and pariahs and are often persecuted, abused, or worse.
INITIATION CEREMONY
After receiving the blessing of the Order, an individual is permitted to join any of more than two dozen training academies scattered about the Empire. New students are typically assigned randomly to these academies, though individuals can occasionally sway their selection based on life circumstances. Upon acceptance, the Radiant individual becomes officially known as an “initiate,” and is thereafter known as a member of the Order of The Light.
While most of these academies cater to adolescent and adult students, a handful – most famously Brightleaf Academy on Titus – cater exclusively to children. Due to their age and level of education, the training of young children requires an extended period as an initiate which usually lasts until adulthood. During this time, children are introduced to Guardian skills and philosophies, but also more common educational topics such as reading, writing, mathematics, and the sciences.
An adult individual’s time as an initiate is generally a short one. At the start of their first semester of training, every initiate takes part in an elaborate initiation ceremony. Here, new students are called before the student body to accept their crystal saber and pass to the rank of novice. Accepting their training saber – typically from the school’s Grand Master – the student is asked to recite the following oath:
“This is my blade, a symbol of my calling. May it be used to strike down the enemies of the Empire and serve as a reminder of The Light that burns eternal in me.”
At this point, an individual is asked to face their peers and ignite their blade for the first time. As this will be the first activation of the blade, the crystalline structure realigns itself to ignite in the color of the bearer’s sensitivities, effectively sorting the student into one of the Order’s now-five sects. It is customary for pre-existing members of the sect to cheer and welcome their newfound sibling with open arms. The student is also presented with an arm band in the color of their sect, which the student will display proudly for the next phase of their training.
The initiate has now officially become a novice.
