The day they closed the escalator

First it was a mother who who’s child’s clothing caught in some of the moving parts. Then it was an elderly man who complained of it going too fast. They had to slow it down and soon it required too many people to stand on it at once and this caused concerns with the Fire Marshall. Then someone raised complaints about the energy usage – they replaced the motors and the stairs went even slower. But most people didn’t want to bother any longer with the crowded contraption. One day without much fanfare the escalator was simply closed down, a simple sign placed at the bottom.

The Do-Gooder

“Poor child – it’s such a downright shame,” said Mrs. Rathberg from down on the corner. “and you say she actually told her daughter that the monster would eat her if she didn’t behave?”

Chosen – part 4: Enlightenment

He grabbed her hand and raised her chin so her eyes could see his. “The decision itself has to be yours to make. And I cannot emphasize this enough, it is your life, to do with as you please.”

Chosen – part 3: Determination

That was the only direction she had. She was to follow directions. The directions of the Council, for the good of the People. ’But it can’t be that simple?‘ she thought.

Chosen – part 2: Declaration

After a few more moments passed, he said in the manner of a cold statement of fact, “The Declaration is now complete.” He paused and didn’t even seem to breath as his stare went right through her.