"Welcome to a picturesque Day 11,348 in The Society. As a 1B Civilian, it is your duty to attend lessons at the Institute. We look forward to your expeditious arrival." The Communicator cuts out sharply, and you exhale a deep sigh of relief.

​

Sitting up, you sleepily gaze around the shadowy corners of your bedroom. Locating your dilapidated oak dresser, you recall that you forgot to clean your Colors yesterday. Your rage swells up at your mistake. You resent soiling any piece of your sacred Colors.

​

Stumbling out of bed, you don your purple Colors and affix your silver Consolidated Coalition pin just above your heart. Before opening the bedroom door, you catch yourself immersed in the mirror, studying every inch of your Colors. You always loved that gorgeous shade of royal purple, you note to yourself, nodding your head.

​

Downstairs, your mom greets you in the kitchen with a warm grin as she slides a plate of half-charred toast across the table. "Good morning, Josiah. How'd you sleep?"

​

"Well, I guess," you answer.

 

She beams approvingly. "I'm glad. Listen, there's an Event of Pride this evening in Old Square. The United Covenant will be there, looking for purple Colors as always."

​

"I know, mom. I heard last week," you grumble, barely peering up from your plate.

​

"Please, Josiah," she re-affirms, moving her hand across yours. "I need you to be careful. All of us purple Colors need to be vigilant. You know how those Events can be.

​

"Of course, mom. I always am. You know that," you assure her, assuaging her fears. "Sorry to head out, but I have my lessons today." Rising from your chair, you start towards the front door.

​

"Josiah!" she calls. Stopping in your tracks, you turn toward her as she pushes you toward the corner and embraces you. "Please—avoid the Old Square. That's all I ask of you today," she whispers, pulling you in tightly and pecking you on the cheek.

​

"I know, mom. I always avoid gold when I can," you say, making eye contact with her to sell your lie. Nodding, she breaks away quickly after stealing a glance at the Communicator on the ceiling.

​

Stepping into the dreary grey outdoors, you're greeted with throngs of purple and golden Colors bustling through the red brick street. As you make your way up Street #4, you come to a halt, debating whether to turn left toward the Institute or veer right to Old Square.

​

​

​

​