It's the year 2038 and a deadly virus has consumed the world for more than 14 years.
In Denmark, an unknown politician took it upon himself to create a safe space from the infected. As long as you abide by the 8 Obligations, you are allowed to live...
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"731, where is the fruit platter?" The Wife walks around the table I have been preparing for her company. "And why aren't the flowers fresh?"
"I'm sorry mam. I haven't had a chance to get the rations yet."
"Well, then hurry. What's the point in getting the best groceries, if I can't show it too my dear friends?"
"Yes mam. I'll get it right now."
Quickly, I retreat to the kitchen carrying the vases with the one day old flowers. I mutter curse words to myself as I remove the flowers and rinse the vases. The young female houseservant, that they acquired two days ago, tiptoes her way over to me. She can't be more than 16. Not that I ask. We aren't allowed to know each other's names or ages.
"Did-did she no-not like the flo-flowers?" The poor girl whispers to me while looking completely terrified.
"It's okay. You didn't do anything wrong." I try to comfort her. "I am the one who didn't bring in fresh flowers from the garden." With a smile I squeeze her shoulder lightly. "And we can't have that. We need all the best put right out in front of her friends, because how else is she supposed to let them know she's better than them." I wink at her, and she chuckles lightly, but quickly stop again.
"Don't make me laugh..." she says, but still with a smile on her face.
"Sorry. My bad, Ms."
She shakes her head at me as I go into the garden to cut some new flowers. The young girl begins to boil the water. I can see her through the window. She is clearly uncomfortable and scared to death of being in this house. Not that I blame her. Occasionally, I can get her to smile, but not that often. It breaks my heart knowing what she has to go through in this life. She is so young that she can barely remember the time before The Outbreak. This way of life is all she really knows. She will never be treated like a real human being. She will never know love or have kids. We are not allowed to. Not kids we can keep, anyway. But we are obligated to donate viable eggs and sperm to the ProCreationCenter.
"What is taking so long!" The Wife screams at the girl inside the kitchen, and I run inside with the flowers, hoping she will take it out on me and not the girl.
"I'm sorry mam, I was trying to find the prettiest flowers in the garden. Only the best for your guests." I humbly lover my gaze and show her the flowers.
"Fine. I'll let it slide. This time. But no more chances today. Not for any of you!" she steps closer to the girl, making her jump slightly and almost dropping the cups she was placing on the tray. Then she turns around and struts out of the kitchen.
"Oh no..." The girl sobs quietly as she tries to stop her hands from shaking. I want to comfort her so badly, but I know I need to get the rations and prepare the fruit as fast as possible, so The Wife won't punish us both. Unfortunately, I hear the doorbell ring. It's too late. They are here. I signal for the girl to stay in the kitchen as I go and open the door. Outside is three of the Wife's closest friends. I welcome them and announce their presence to The Wife as I take their coats and hang them on the coat rag. I'm tempted to get the bag with rations right now, while I'm right at the door, but I know she will be furious, if I don't guide the women inside and offer them a seat first.
