Consensus: Part 1 - Citizen

Abigail McCormack

One of the Founders, responsible for developing some of the first algorithms of Esh's rating system.

Canopy

A curved structure that extends over Esh to protect it from the environment. It is anchored to the ground in several places along its perimeter and is supported by a single column at the center. It consists of a metal framework, with semitransparent panels that function as optical filters to clarify the incoming sunlight. Attached to the framework at regular intervals are machines for warming and dehumidifying outside air before pumping it through exhaust vents into the city. The framework is also designed to collect rainwater and channel it to processing centers throughout the city for use in homes and businesses.

Canopyscraper

A tall building, most often found at the Center of Esh. Despite the term, no building is tall enough to actually touch the Canopy.

Center

The central part of the city, known for its wealth and technology. The Center is where the Founders' concepts are the most fully accepted and implemented.

Clarine Waite

Rena's adoptive mother. A logistics supervisor at a food distribution center and a model lower-middlerate citizen.

Collective

The holographic information system used by all citizens of Esh. Designed to be a collective mind of useful information. New and existing content requires votes in order to remain relevant and accessible. Irrelevant information is deleted from the system.

Commons

Green spaces located throughout the city, designated for recreational use and shared by all citizens.

Community Hall

The place where citizens go to attend consensus and become informed on voting issues. Community halls and the staff who run them are supported by citizen donations. There are numerous halls located in each city segment.

Consensus

A weekly gathering of citizens, where they inform one another about social issues and inspire each other to vote.

Dalyn (Dal) Rigby

Rena's first and best friend who lives down the street from the Waites. Seventeen years old. Male. Goes by Dal.

Eldric

Rena's father.

Esh

A city of approximately two and a half million citizens. Circular in shape and organized into twelve segments. The wealthiest area is at the Center, where the most advanced technologies are utilized to bring citizens together in a communal, urban existence. As one moves away from the Center, society becomes more suburban, low-tech, and individualistic.

Exterminal

A device for accessing the Collective. A terminal that is external to a citizen's body, intended for multiple users.

Founders

The group of scientists and engineers who created Esh and the rating system that is the basis of society.

Gareth Waite

Rena's adopted brother. Five years old.

Hutton (Mrs.)