(urth) A new mystery ...

[Son of Witz]

>> Severian I (clawless)  gained the phoenix throne, but did he become  
>> the New Sun? or is all of this Heirodules just trying to renurture him  
>> so that he has the character to pass the Trial.
>> I guess I'd assumed that they saw him become the New Sun, but now I'm  
>> wondering if they just saw the potential.
>
>
>I apologize, but I think I've missed something.  What is the "potential" that was seen?  While I personally perceive Severian as being unique and pretty wonderful (I'm in love with and have worn out my first copies of The Wizard Knight), I also can't help but feel that he "passed" because it was time for the New Sun much as, to overtly steal from Marcus Aurelius, grapevines produce grapes when it is the time of year for them to produce grapes.  I would be interested in responses.  Thanks for reading.
>Bob

The "potential" was that he would pass the test.
It seems the Heiro-dudes seem to think he 'could' fail.
according the Ash, there is still quite some time before the sun dies and the last glaciation occurs.  
I suppose the spirit of you question is right though. it was time for the New Sun.  I'm hazy on all this, but didn't the Jews think it was gettin' 'bout time for a Messiah 'round the time Jesus entered the picture.
It could perhaps be that the New Sun was waiting for a worthy host.  dunnoh.

~witz