The Pentrals by Mack Crystal

Author:Mack, Crystal [Mack, Crystal]
Language: eng
Format: epub, azw3, mobi
Publisher: Apologue Entertainment, LLC
Published: 2013-11-11T18:30:00+00:00

* * 18 * *

As I force down a bowl of stale cereal the next morning, I watch Celestia Sky give a recap of last night’s anniversary party on the downstairs holopane. Her 3D frame glides back and forth across Violet’s kitchen, almost as if she were floating on a cloud right in front of my face. She talks about the lighting and the magical atmosphere, being sure to recount every whimsical detail. I almost gag on my cardboard breakfast as she recalls every spoonful of the four-course meal; it is the one part of the night I wish I could live over and over again.

Oddly, though, she fails to mention what I thought to be the most dramatic element of the evening: how all the party guests rose above their usual downtrodden appearances and transformed into stunning, happy individuals. Surely it must be worth discussing how lively and elegant the attendees were, but Celestia makes no mention of the crowd. The only fashion reference ties back to the host herself, commenting on how all the compliments on her attire made her feel so loved and appreciated. A replay of her dedication speech flickers off the glass, just in case anyone failed to remember how ravishing she looked. How is it that Celestia is the only Person to ever gain face time on the holopane? For city spokesperson, she makes little effort to promote anyone but herself.

I’m tired. The past couple days is catching up with me and I’m not sure how much longer I can hold on. Watching Celestia slink around the room doesn’t help; my movements are downright robotic next to her flawless frame. And to think that everything she does is some sort of game? It makes everything worse. It’s bad enough that I have to look at someone so pretty when my own face drives me near tears. Could she really be withholding other Persons the chance to appear on screen in effort to manipulate the population? Forcing them to only witness her beauty and no one else’s? It’s the only thing I can think of; the only way she could assume any kind of power. Everyone in town worships her, but really, she doesn’t have any competition. To stay on top, she’s systematically keeping everyone down, hidden from view. It seems so cruel, such a despicable way to spend time, and yet I can’t say it isn’t working.

The next few days do nothing to lift my spirits. Every encounter presents new ways to encapsulate me in darkness. Ben repeatedly tries to pressure me for answers, but I push him away. Thomas constantly corners me looking for affection. Sam gives up trying to talk to me and instead shoots death beams whenever our paths cross. And of course, every first period, Mr. West gawks at me like I am a mythological creature. As if I did not already know, based off the spine-tingling Reflection that never leaves my side.

It is in physics days later when I feel I am going to lose it.

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