Unison (The Spheral)
of this, but I have no proof. The Striker in custody is only a middle man. He received his orders through letters and comnet messages that were successfully erased from the main database. Unity Forces tried to retrieve them and failed.” Master Kai patted the desk with his hands. “And that’s why I asked you here today. The Overseer must disprove Tyrus’s erroneous views towards the outside. That’s why I asked you here today. I want you to write His next speech.”
    My heart beat in double-time. I wasn’t ready for such a big undertaking. Failure at this juncture of my assignment could lead to demotion. “Master Kai, I appreciate your confidence in me, but I don’t have Master Tyrus’s years of service or his large base of supporters. Perhaps you should appoint someone with more experience.”
    Master Kai glanced into his holologue. “You were at the top of your class in faith design. The techniques you learned worked.”
    “I haven’t tested them outside the classroom.”
    “I’m certain your friend Wade would disagree.” Master Kai leaned forward and pressed both hands on his desk. “I was impressed by your quick thinking and ability to persuade him to seek help. I saw that same spark in you during your last speech to the Chosen.” Master Kai sat erect and widened his eyes. “I’m the evidence!” He laughed and slammed his hand on the desk. “I don’t think I’ll ever forget the look on Master Avery’s face when you said that.” Master Kai sat back and gazed at me reflectively. “Your talent will take you far…should you choose to use it.”
    I bowed. “I’ll do my best to earn your respect.”
    “You’ll earn more than that. If your speech helps the Overseer turn the purple sleeves against Tyrus, I’ll personally hand you your first commendation.”
    “I’m humbled by your offer, but I must tell you, words alone won’t stop the Strikers.”
    “I know. But we can at least stop Tyrus. This may bring the rebellious purple sleeves back to our side. No one likes to be on the losing team.”
    I left Master Kai’s office doubting my ability to handle such an assignment. The only reason I got it was because of a lie. To trust in my own competence, I had to write a speech that would destroy Master Tyrus’s support base. If I could do that, my success would be deserved.
    With my first commendation in view, I spent hours orchestrating the right phrases and words into an inspiring message that would champion the Sacred Oath. The Overseer approved my speech and when he delivered it, I studied the crowd's reaction and was unexpectedly disconcerted when they hailed, cried, and laughed at all the moments I predicted. My reservations vanished after Master Kai congratulated me. We couldn’t be certain of the Overseer’s success until Master Tyrus’s next rally. When hardly anyone showed up, I knew a promotion was evident. The accomplishment reignited my passion, and I wanted to feel more because I hadn’t felt for so long.

    Master Kai offered me my commendation after the Overseer’s weekly assembly at Unity Hall. I got up and gave the usual acceptance speech. Towards the closing, the woman from my vision entered the hall. Her presence took over the whole room, and I momentarily forgot where I was and what I was doing. When I returned my attention to the audience, I slammed the side of my fist on the podium and shouted. “You’re all primitives! No amount of promotions or privileges will elevate you. You’re so intoxicated on self-praise, you believe your own lies. While the Outsiders move forward, you continue to devolve.”
    All the colors scoffed and hissed, but I didn’t hear them. I pointed my finger towards the purple sleeves. “The Strikers will win! You’ll eventually be outmaneuvered and defeated!”
    In the midst of all the yelling and jeering, I returned my attention to the woman from my vision. I heard only her voice speak a phrase I hadn’t heard since I almost jumped off the

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