Chereads / Full of Life - Journey from Apocalyptic world to Omegaverse / Chapter 3 - Is having two wives common?

Chapter 3 - Is having two wives common?

"System, wait a minute… my father has two wives?" His voice echoed in his head, laced with disbelief. This new social structure explained the hierarchy, the betas and omegas, but two wives? That didn't quite fit the picture.

"Indeed, Host." The system replied matter-of-factly.

"Society is divided into three distinct castes: alphas, betas, and omegas. Alphas, with their imposing builds and dominant personalities, naturally gravitate towards leadership roles. However, their numbers are significantly lower compared to betas and omegas. "

Hong Yi raised an eyebrow. "So, alphas are the big shots here? Like warlords back home, only flashier?" "Not exactly, Host." The system continued, devoid of amusement. "While alphas hold a position of power, their dominance is regulated. A unique social dynamic exists due to the rarity of alphas."

Intrigued, Hong Yi leaned closer to the sleek voice-activated mirror, his reflection a stark contrast to his memories. "Unique? How so?"

"Polygamy exists for alphas, but with strict limitations." The system explained. "They can have multiple spouses, but only if their financial resources allow for a comfortable life for each partner. The Omega Rights Federation and the government work hand-in-hand to ensure this.""So, it's not just about power, it's about responsibility too. Not having enough resources for multiple wives sounds… troublesome." a sarcastic smile formed on Hong Yi's face.

"Indeed, Host." The system confirmed. "Betas and omegas, on the other hand, can only marry once. Additionally, relationships between two alphas are generally frowned upon."Hong Yi digested this information, his mind already calculating the implications. This social hierarchy was a puzzle box, and he needed to figure it out. "So, who do alphas typically marry? Betas or omegas?"

"Both, Host." The system replied. "Alphas tend to favor omegas for their nurturing nature and rare pheromones. However, strong, intelligent betas are also valued partners.

"Hong Yi rubbed his chin, a smirk playing on his lips. This world might be different, but it seemed filled with complexities he could exploit. Mastering these social dynamics, he realized, might be just as crucial as understanding the financial reports he would have to decipher soon. "Interesting," he muttered to himself. "This Omegaverse… it's got its own set of rules, doesn't it?"

Hong Yi felt a sudden squeeze on his hand. He glanced over to see Shu Ya glaring daggers at someone approaching. Three figures – two men and a woman – walked towards them. They bowed their heads respectfully before the photo, then one of the men turned to Hong Yi and engulfed him in a hug.

"Ah, Hong Yi, my dear nephew," the man boomed. "This must be so difficult for you." He released Hong Yi from the hug a little too quickly. "Don't worry, you have Uncle Li here. He'll take care of everything."

While the man's words seemed sincere, Shu Ya's sharp gaze told a different story.

"Brother Li," she countered sharply, "we are more than capable of handling things ourselves. My son doesn't need your help. He's old enough to take care of himself, especially with his two mothers and sister by his side."

Shu Ya's reply left a bitter taste in the mouths of the newcomers, evident by the way their faces contorted.

"Sister-in-law," the woman interjected, "we're here to offer our condolences. We're truly heartbroken by your loss."

Hong Yi, sensing the rising tension, stepped forward. He gently nudged Shu Ya behind him, creating a protective barrier between her and the unwelcome guests.

"If you truly respected my father," he stated firmly, "you wouldn't cause a scene here."

His simple words had a powerful effect. The three visitors exchanged uncomfortable glances before turning on their heels and leaving.

Hong Yi watched them go until they were out of sight. He turned back to find Shu Ya gazing at him with a mixture of love, admiration, and pride. He then felt a comforting hand pat his back – it was Ci En, her eyes shining with pride as well.

Hong Yi caught sight of a figure rushing towards them. "Mom, are you alright?" Hong Ling Wei exclaimed. "I just saw Uncle Li, Uncle Lin, and Aunt Shen. Did they cause any trouble?"

"Everything's under control, dear," Shu Ya replied calmly, a hint of pride in her voice. "Hong Yi handled it before things got out of hand."

Hong Ling Wei's eyes narrowed as she pointed at Hong Yi. "Him?" she said, her voice laced with doubt and a hint of disgust.

"A-Ling," Shu Ya began, trying to reason with her daughter, "he's your brother. Give him some credit."

Hong Ling Wei rolled her eyes dismissively. She then spotted Hong Hao Yu standing in a corner and beckoned him to follow. Before leaving, though, she fixed Hong Yi with a menacing stare.

"If I see a single scratch on Mom or Mama, you're in big trouble," she warned.

"Remember that." With that, she swept out, followed by Hong Hao Yu.

As the tension eased and slowly the quests departed, Hong Yi found himself alone with Shu Ya and Ci En. The weight of his situation pressed down on him, and he decided to address the elephant in the room.

"There's something I need to understand," he began cautiously, his voice respectful.

"The people who showed up earlier... Uncle Li, Uncle Lin, and Aunt Shen... who are they?"

Ci En sighed, her eyes flitting across the room before settling back on him. "They are your father's brothers and sister," she explained. "Hong Li, Hong Lin, and Hong Shen. They haven't always been the most welcoming to us, especially after... well, after Hong Shan married me, an actor."

A flicker of bitterness crossed her face, a stark contrast to her usual calm demeanor. Shu Ya placed a comforting hand on her arm, offering silent support.

Hong Yi absorbed this information, a new piece of the puzzle clicking into place. "And why were they causing trouble?" he pressed gently.

Ci En spoke this time, her voice laced with a hint of weariness. "They've always had their eyes on the family business, Zenith Media. Now that Hong Shan is gone, they likely sense an opportunity. Perhaps they believe a young, inexperienced heir like you won't be able to handle it."

His gaze darted towards the photo of his father, a pang of guilt twisting in his gut. "So, they're not here to offer condolences… Are they… worried about getting a share of the inheritance?"

Ci En gave a humorless chuckle. "Let's just say their main concern might not be grief for their brother."

"That's one of the reasons we never wanted them involved in you and your siblings' lives" Shu Ya replied nonchalantly. 

A cold anger simmered within Hong Yi. He may be new to this family drama, but he wouldn't tolerate greed directed towards his mothers. He met Shu Ya's gaze, his resolve firm. "Do they have a legitimate claim to the inheritance, Mother?"

Shu Ya studied him for a moment, a flicker of pride dancing in her eyes. "That, my dear Hong Yi, is something we'll have to discuss later. Right now, the focus should be on honoring your father's memory."