The Alternative

There had to be an alternative placement. It was completely unheard of for anyone to be left without an apprenticeship beyond the age of fourteen. Who would accept him, especially now he had failed such a straightforward task? In fact, Felix couldn't think of anybody at all, let alone somebody with a trade to suit his slight frame. His mother appeared in front of the platform. She looked concerned, yet her presence was the reassurance that Felix needed. He reached down and their fingertips touched. There was nothing to say. Felix stood up quickly as he thought he saw that strange sway of the crowd and the flash of colour appear again. Hodge puffed himself up before he called out.
"Does anyone wish to offer a suitable alternative placement for Felix?" Nothing.
"Anyone?" There was an edge to Hodge's voice now. He was sweating and looked very uncomfortable. Felix had a hollow feeling and the hot anger was replaced by a creeping iciness.
The crowd grew restless and gradually began to move away. It didn't seem very long at all until there were only five figures remaining. Three stood on the stage, Felix's mother shifted around anxiously and a long forgotten cat looked for any tasty scraps. Felix felt a sudden surge of sympathy.
Felix knew he had let everyone down. He became aware of Hodge muttering quietly.
"Never before...I knew it was trouble...nothing for it...council...special meeting...tomorrow." Hodge's voice droned on.
Felix felt Drevil's hand on his shoulder once more and allowed himself to be guided down the steps into the arms of his mother.
"You must trust in him! His destiny was not to be with me. Perhaps a greater future lies ahead..." Drevil's voice sounded gentle and soothing as he spoke to Felix's mother. There was something in his tone that made Felix believe Drevil's words.