Favorites
– Are you going to make it to the curfew? – the blue-eyed girl asked worriedly.
Nari glanced at her communicator.
– Mmm, – she drawled, – I have about two hours. I’ll make it.
– Maybe I should see you off? They say it’s dangerous for omegas to be out alone like this…
– Thank you, Tika, but it's unnecessary. And you don't need to do it.
– You're bringing it up again…
In the world of Alphas and Omegas, Kanetika Tami was born a Beta. One could say she was lucky, if such conditions could indeed be called luck. According to official statistics, Betas make up 80% of the population of Katoria, the last human state untouched by the fog. Being born a Beta gives one a chance at a calm, measured life. At least until you follow all the rules. Betas were positioned at the center of the hierarchy, with Alphas at the top and struggling Omegas at the bottom.
– After all, a civil servant must maintain their reputation, – Nari shrugged, – it would be just dreadful for someone to see you at the gates of the ghetto.
– We’ve talked about this, – Tika sighed, – I don’t care. It won’t affect my job, and what others think is none of my concern. Besides, let them try to say something against a privileged favorite!
Kanetika tucked a strand of her short chestnut hair behind her ear and smiled. She and Nari had known each other since childhood. Tika's mother worked as a nurse who conducted gender tests at a clinic. That’s where they met. Despite the harsh class inequality, Mrs. Tami treated all children equally and raised her daughter accordingly. Even then, Tika was very curious about Nari’s unusual pink hair and her large, cosmic-like eyes.
– Tell me what you think about the new season of the Arena? – Tika asked.
– What’s there to think about? – Nari shrugged, – it’s definitely going to start on schedule. Still, the Tree has withered even more this winter…
She turned around. The crown of the World Tree loomed high above the rooftops of the low gray apartment buildings. For the last fifty years, Katoria had remained the only state in the territory where fertile lands and energy resources still existed, allowing the people to live relatively comfortably and safely. All thanks to the World Tree, which had its roots in the center of Elestra, the capital of the last state. Under the protection of the Tree's barrier, Elestra thrived and was considered the safest and most comfortable place in the world. Life here was quite expensive, so it was no surprise that the city center was occupied by the penthouses of Alphas, while the outskirts housed the ghettos of the Omegas, so necessary for the World Tree.
But the further one went from Elestra, the less rosy the reality became. Where the Tree's barrier was weaker and resources scarcer, life was more challenging. Where the gray mist from the dead lands seeped through the barrier, the earth dried up and crumbled to dust, people fell ill, the air was heavy, and the water filthy. And every year, the Tree's barrier continued to shrink. Although the governing corporation had decided not to publicize this, it was more than evident that the World Tree was slowly dying.
– I suspect that this year few will be taken to the farms, – Nari contemplated aloud, – they will be selecting newcomers for the Arena season. After all, omegas don’t have many options. And lately, we’ve had very few who could boast a strong calling. In total, only four veterans from the Arena remain in our ghetto. If others are in a similar situation – newcomers are doomed.
– I never asked, – Tika began carefully, – but… what happens if someone loses in the Arena?
– Hard to say, – Nari looked up at the sky, – some say they take them directly to the farm. Others speculate their calling gets processed in laboratory conditions, in some camps. In any case, nothing good. Who knows what those Alphas do with us when we become unnecessary.
– The life of favorites is tough… – Tika said gloomily, – I wish I could help you somehow!
– Forget it, – Nari waved her hand dismissively, – I’m fine just being friends. Besides, there are perks to being a favorite. For example, I can go out into the city. I always have money. And I’m always protected. Everyone who sees this thing doesn’t even think of coming closer.
She pointed to the metal collar, proof of her status as property of the Favorit Corporation.
– Naaaaaarrrrriii… – Tika hung on her friend's neck, – I love you!!! I love you! I love you!
– What are you doing?! – the girl flushed, – they’re watching!!! Tika, let go!!!
– Someday! – Tami suddenly said seriously, – someday, I will definitely break into our parliament! And I will try to change the attitude towards Omegas!!! I will fight for your rights, even if it takes my whole life!
– Tika… – Nari looked into her eyes, – you are extraordinary. I really appreciate your enthusiasm, but… I don’t think it’s realistic. Only omegas can sustain the World Tree. Do you think anyone will give us the right to choose?
– And still, it’s not fair, – Tika mumbled, – Alphas are strong, talented, successful. They are extraordinary from the moment they are born, the elite. Everything comes easily to them. Everyone fears them, everyone obeys. They can do anything! And you save the Tree… At the very least, you should be treated like heroes! Not kept behind tall fences in the ghetto!
– Shhh, – Nari pressed a finger to her lips, – the last thing we need is for someone to hear you. The structure of our society is built by Alphas. Questioning the system – it’s just attracting enemies. You are already putting yourself in danger just by being my friend.
– I don’t care!..
– Kanetika! – the girl looked at her seriously, – how do you plan to change the world if you end up in a camp outside the barrier?!
Kanetika calmed down a bit, the sparkles in her eyes began to dim.
– Alright, alright… – she whispered, – I won’t shout. But that doesn’t mean I agree with it!