The Founders

The sisters, Grace and Mercy, walked into the boardroom. There, around a long table, sat the 12 founders of Ambiguberg. They all turned as one to see who had the audacity to enter unannounced. They could see only the faint outline of the sisters, they couldn’t make out their substance. Nevertheless, everyone knew who they were and became filled with an expectant foreboding.

Mercy broke the silence, “We have come.” Though she spoke in her usual, clear tone, in their ears it sounded like a harsh screech or a clanging gong.  Some pretended not to be able to hear; others loudly continued their interrupted conversation ignoring Mercy’s voice. Still others covered their ears and hummed or made noise to drown it out. Her voice, however; penetrated to the essence of everyone; they heard and understood.

“This is your day of reckoning. You have traded your integrity for fame and have become children of pride. You have led the inhabitants of the city with your great influence toward your father. They have evolved into a people of folly.

Your established standard for conduct has been for each person to do what is right in their own eyes. This can seem noble and right, but you know where it has led. Without a greater purpose, each individual has become a god. From your perspective here, you have seen all manner of pain and suffering this form of self-government has caused yet you have done nothing.”

Grace stepped forward, “It is not too late. Change is possible. We were with you in the beginning when you were young and great, before power corrupted you. Though the city itself works tirelessly with its shifting to keep us captive within its limits, your time is drawing short. If there is no change, we will leave. The consequences that we are holding back with our presence will fall upon you. You will get what you deserve.”

There was a visible shudder from the 12. Vague recollections from a time when they were young and optimistic floated to the forefront of their memory. They had planned and dreamt of what they could create. Grace and Mercy were there helping them plan and organize. It was a time when actions had consequences… The last thought made all but one stiffen their resolve to proceed down this path they had been leading Ambiguberg. They were all too aware that consequences would shatter the amazing thing they had created. Nothing and no one was worth that sacrifice.  

Mercy noticed the one who was still listening. She spoke solely to him, “You know what to do. You know the steps you must take.”

He shifted nervously in his chair.

Mercy said with finality, “You have been warned.”

As they left the grand building the city spun with an even greater shifting than had yet been experienced. The sisters had received their answer.