We Exist

Prologue

Blinded by the dust, Martin ran through the streets of the hive city. He was holding a bag of apples in one of his grubby hands, stolen from a careless vendor. He passed by ramshackle hovels and huddled families, most of them without any capable members, for it was the early afternoon. They were out working at poor-paying jobs.

The apples would fetch a good price, feeding his family for a day or two.
He slowed down, the vendor not following, and wiped his eyes with his filthy sleeve. His stomach growled.

He turned onto Hiveway 7E, one of the many wide streets in the city. Looking up at the tall buildings, Martin noticed the large screens on the side of the buildings. The face of the council's representative, Dominic Avarn, appeared, about to make an announcement. The bustle of crowds all over the hive city quietened.

"Today the council has made a decision." He paused for effect.
"As you all know, food stuffs are being illegally bought, sold and transported. We have decided that this cannot continue - it is causing sickness and giving criminals a free market to exploit."
Martin knew what was coming.
"So today, any persons caught selling unlicensed food stuffs shall be jailed and fined. The Arbiter squads will be cracking down upon these criminals promptly!"

There was a general air of unease in the street. Survival in the hives was hard, and food was a large component of the economy in the hives.
Martin looked at the apples in his hand.

To be able to sell these without risk would be too pay much more than he could afford. Another self-empowering move from the Council.

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This is my first story so please be patient ;)
Writing is slow because I am a busy person with high standards for my writing.