Echoes

Back to Normal

    Forsephore nudged her way into the crowd of Echoes on the ground floor of the Hub's main hall. Fears surged within her. Surely a Fade would be challenged or even cast out of the assembly.
    But the sea of identical faces provided camoflauge. Though hairstyles, apparel and levels of brightness varied, every Echo wore the face of the Prime, identical down to the dusting of freckles on each cheek. So long as no one looked too close at Forsephore's tattered clothing or translucent skin, she could pass for Fifth Caste--high enough to enter, low enough to be ignored.
    The lights had resumed normal function following the earthquake. But tension hung thick in the air throughout the gathering.
    Most days, myriad debates distracted attention from the outside world. But the sudden quake jolted everyone's confidence. Nervous murmurs replaced the usual carefree conversation and light-hearted atmosphere. Many Echoes watched projections of the Prime's vision, or looked to the Alphas at the center of the room for assurance. 
    A flash of realization grabbed Forsephore's attention, and she stumbled, jostling the nearby Echoes. How do I know what's normal in here? I don't remember ever visiting.
    Yet she drew on an instinctive knowledge that seemed accurate and certain beyond doubt. And in fading to the Third Caste, she'd forgotten her own purpose. So, what else don't I recall?
    A curious excitement rushed through the gathering, and Forsephore turned with the crowd. Some pointed toward the pedestal of the Alphas. Others hushed casual, distracted dialogue in their vicinity.
    Sevnynate, the Chief Alpha, ascended to the podium.
    She seemed a walking contrast. Her golden skin and eyes radiated Inspiration. She kept her hair in a tight bun above an elegant silk Chinese qipao. Sevnynate walked with poise in the snug garment, refined yet ravishing. But her harsh glare spoiled her beauty, at least in Forsephore's estimation.
    "My dear Enlightened ones," her melodious voice addressed the crowd. "The Prime suffered an unexpected calamity, yes. But be at ease. All is well, order is maintained, our society stands in peace and security."
    Sevnynate gestured to the gleaming Echoes behind her. "Like any other day, the Alphas gathered behind me represent Hope's primary motivatons and beliefs, her guiding influences. If you feel fear, consider that nothing has changed. You may rest easy and resume your normal affairs."
    She continued speaking in a calm but firm tone, and Forsephore tuned her out.
    The uncertainty in the room shifted, but Forsephore felt more confused than before. The tranquility she expected never materialized. Instead, a heavy malaise fell upon the gathering. The room actually seemed to dim before her eyes.
Another thought formed, one Forsephore had no reason to consider, yet felt with wholehearted conviction:
    When did "normal" become so dull?