No Pens, Just Knives

Faction Before Blood

\\•ANDY POV•//

" Faction before blood. "

Ever since the power went out all over the world, almost everything was destroyed. I barely remember it because I was only seven. Millions of people died from what I have heard. Order was needed and therefore factions have started: in order so we would not be taken over by the Monroe Republic.

Our society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue. These are: Abnegation, Erudite, Dauntless, Amity, and Candor. On an appointed day of every year, all eighteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives after taking an aptitude test.

Amity: The faction who values peace above else. The ones who try to make everything peaceful. Members of the Amity Faction are dressed in red or yellow. Every time I see them, they look kind, loving and free. Amity children are seen playing hand clapping games and singing songs. They mostly have a laid back happy go lucky attitudes and are viewed as artists. Yet despite that, Amity has given Chicago understanding counselors and caretakers.

Erudite: According to the norms of the faction, it is dictated that a faction member must wear at least one blue article of clothing at a time, because blue causes the body to release calming chemicals which attest to their saying, a calm mind is a clear mind. It is also noted that Erudites are big on speeches and that Eloquence are for them. They never seem to have fun, they just read books, work, and shun everything else.

Candor: The faction that values honesty. The ones who can't even tell one little lie. A member of the Candor faction can be recognized because of his black suit and white tie, a Candor standard uniform. They see the truth as black and white so that is what they wear. Through the years, the Candor Faction provided the people with trustworthy and sound leaders in law. Candor children are seen to make wide gestures with their hands and appear to be arguing. They are very truthful and would even frankly and tactlessly say what they feel. The candor initiation does not utilize simulation but utilize lie detectors tests and truth serum. An initiate sits in front of everyone and are asked a load of really personal questions. According to what I've heard, the theory is that if the person reveals all his secrets, he has no desire to lie about anything because the worst is already in the open. Although candor value honesty the most, they also seek to develop impartiality. The term "Candor" means: To shine,be white.

Dauntless: The ones who are brave, fearless almost. They strive to become fearless and indestructible. The Dauntless are those who guard the fence, making sure no one gets in or out, and are the best soldiers. Dauntless color is black, in which members completely dress. Dark makeup and tattoos are also recommended for members. They're like superheroes, what I've always wanted to be. Except if I am a Dauntless, I have to leave my family from the fifth faction.

Abnegation: Also known as the "stiffs". The faction that values selflessness in the service of others. These are ones who do community service. We are only allowed to wear one watch and are never allowed to be around mirrors. Our rules, in my opinion are ridiculous, but I don't want to let my parents down.

I may have forgotten to mention:

I am eighteen.

I am taking the aptitude test today.

I always would act like it's no big deal, but the truth is, I'm terrified.

What if I am factionless? The homeless? Ones who are always shunned? They get nothing. No food. Unless if it's from us: because it's Abnegation's job. But I would never see my family.

What if I let them down?

I couldn't sleep much last night. So I was drowsily getting out if bed when I broke up this morning. After getting a bath (since theres no power on to be able to get a shower) and getting dressed, I went downstairs to eat breakfast. The food isn't luxurious like the "golden days" when we had power, so it tasted like shit. But it was something to eat and keep us alive so that's all that mattered. Spending most of my life with this kind of food has gotten me used to it but I still can't forget about those cookies.

My parents were smiling at me in excitement. I never understood who the hell would be so excited about their kid being told who they are instead of them figuring it out themselves. It's stupid if you ask me.

"I can't believe it! You've grown up so fast! My child is taking his aptitude test today." My mom was pretending to be excited, I could tell she was hoping not to scare me but she never realizes she's a terrible liar. My dad patted me on the back and started conversing about how much I have grown and whatever faction I choose they will still love me.

"I know, I got it." I replied with a fake smile. It seemed to fool my parents because I wasn't beaming.

I was terrified.