Chapter 3
Since ancient times, this Earth has been shaped by three traits: Alpha, Beta, and Omega. The Alpha is strong and combative, known for achieving victories in war and for leading nations.
On the other hand, Omegas possess a delicate sensibility, often displaying talent in the arts. With their beautiful appearance, they were often welcomed as consorts to Alphas. Throughout history, many renowned royals were Alphas who chose Omegas as their partners.
In the past, 20% of people had special traits. But over time, that number dropped to less than 10%. Today, Alphas are about 6%, Omegas are 3–4%, and Betas make up around 90% of the population.
Because Omegas were rare, a system known as "Omega hunting" existed until the early modern period. Specialized hunting squads were organized to collect Omegas and present them to the king. However, in Japan, guided by the spirit of Shinto, trait-bearers were regarded as incarnations of the divine and treated with reverence and respect.
During the medieval era—often considered the darkest period, people suffering from the Black Death and famine believed a rumor that Omega secretions could cure illness. This led to desperate and violent Omega hunting, driven by fear and superstition.
If an Omega was found in a non-noble household, they were sold for a high price. Over time, a cruel custom developed—children with Omega traits were purposely conceived and sold. Omegas have fragile bodies, and forced pregnancies often led to difficult births, stillbirths, or miscarriages. Many Omegas died as a result.
In 1776, people in America began to oppose Omega hunting. This led to a law called the Omega Human Rights Protection Act. By 1789, anger toward aristocrats who controlled Omegas spread in France, sparking the "French Omega Revolution."
Fights over Omegas happened around the world and often led to war. In 1807, Africa ended its system of forced Omega breeding and banned trading people with the trait. After that, people began trying to protect the few who were left.
In 1945, Japan joined the World Human Rights Cooperation and started working to protect trait-bearers like Omegas. As more people around the world saw Omegas as endangered, a group of pastors from Queens, USA, held a large event in Washington, D.C. to mark 100 years since Linder's declaration banning Omega hunting.
The "March on Washington" on August 28, 1963, was a major event with over 300,000 people. People from many backgrounds, including renowned scholars and artists, spoke out for Omega rights. The movement also reached Japan, where laws about Omegas were reviewed and support systems were improved.
Most royal families around the world are made up of Alphas, and Japan's imperial family is no exception. The Alpha bloodline has remained unbroken. Today, Omegas are so rare that they are considered an endangered group.
In the past, Omegas had to marry into the imperial family. But as human rights became more important, Omegas gained the freedom to choose how to live and whom to marry. Nowadays, it's no longer acceptable for laws to control their lives.
Looking back through history, Alphas have excelled in fields such as science, astronomy, and sports, with many renowned figures—like Einjutain, Ejifar, and Galilai—contributing to the advancement of the world. Meanwhile, Omegas have shown remarkable talent in the arts, including music, visual arts, and literature, with individuals like Da Vinla, Mozarlle, and Van Gollon blossoming in beauty and creativity. Despite countless trials and ages of ignorance, the world continues its slow march toward harmony and peace.
Peace University, a prestigious Japanese institution ranked third in the world university rankings, is surrounded by clear air and gentle sunlight, bustling with vibrant students. On a stylish bench in front of the Faculty of Humanities, Tougo and Aiko sat with warm coffee in hand, happily chatting away.
"Phew… Once next week's finals are over, it'll finally be winter break. Got any plans?"
Aiko, wearing a fluffy pink knit hat, twirled her coffee cup as she asked.
Tougo took a sip of coffee and slowly replied.
"Lately I've been kind of busy… I've got my part-time job, I need to write an essay for the literary contest, I want to read more books, and I'd love to go on walks with my grandma… There's just so much I want to do."
"Geez, Tougo, you're way too busy! Come hang out with me. Hey, my upperclassmen friends are planning a trip to Seoul—want to come? It's going to be super fun!"
"Thanks for inviting me. But I can't get out of work… sorry. I'd love to go out for a nice lunch on a day off instead."
"Come on, we're just first-year university students—this is the time to have fun! Instead of working at the bookstore, why not tutor my cousin? You'd have more time and money."
"Sorry, tutoring might be a bit tricky. If my pheromones cause any trouble, that'd be a problem… Besides, I really like my bookstore job."
"My cousin's a Beta. Well… he might change once he sees your face, but still… There are housekeepers and staff at home, so nothing dangerous should happen. He's super rich, so you'd get paid a lot for the lessons…"
"Thanks for thinking of me. But I really like my current job. Working surrounded by books is fun, and I get free lunch and coffee. Everyone's kind too… I guess I'm pretty satisfied."
"Alright, alright! Hey, Tougo, that coat is amazing. It's purple, but you wear it so well. It looks fantastic on you! Come on, tell me the brand."
"Hmm, I'm not really sure… It's a hand-me-down from Dr. Suzuki's daughter. The fabric feels amazing and it's so warm. I feel lucky to have received something so nice. I'm really grateful."
"Let me see… the tag at the collar—whoa, I knew it! It's a brand. It's Louis Botton! Nice. You always wear such good clothes, I thought you were some rich heiress. But turns out you're a guy. Haha."
"They're all gifts from Dr. Suzuki. Is it really that famous?"
Aiko quickly tapped her smartphone and opened a secondhand luxury goods site, holding it up close to Tougo's face. His expression gradually shifted to one of surprise.
"This… it's this expensive even used? That's not a mistake, right?"
"Hey, this is a famous resale site. In Japan, no one skips Brand Kingmat. I bought this fancy bag for 100,000 yen. Cute, right? The retail price is 150,000 yen. The quality here is great, no fading, and I'm 200% satisfied!"
"Hey… why doesn't Louis Botton show its retail prices?"
"Hold on. Look at this—this is the official Louis Botton site."
"Wow… it's so beautiful, such elegant designs. But there's no price listed…"
"Exactly. It's a super famous brand, so they don't post fixed prices. The cost depends on exchange rates and timing. They even do custom orders. Princess Katharina and Juliana Roberts are fans. Dr. Suzuki's daughter must be incredibly wealthy."
"Yeah, she's a Hollywood actress."
"What?! Why are you just telling me now? Do you know her name?"
"Yeah… Professor Suzuki's husband is the famous Dr. Wayne Wise, and their daughter is Airi Wise. She got married two years ago though, so now she goes by Airi Cruz."
"Whoa, I've got chills! She's a super famous actress! Dinner at Tiffany's ,The Bridge of Edmond County, Holiday in Paris, Gone with the Wind ,Ghost of Love …She's been in so many masterpieces!"
"I've seen all of them too. But her name didn't ring a bell at first… Dr. Suzuki only ever said 'Hollywood actress,' and never went into detail."
"Hey, can you get her autograph? I've been a huge fan since middle school! Airi debuted as a star when she was just a teenager. I read in a magazine that her mom's Japanese, but she keeps her private life totally hidden, so I don't know much. Plus, she graduated from Harbor University, she's super smart, and absolutely gorgeous. She looks just like you, Tougo! Oh, and she married the actor George Cruz, right? I heard the wedding was private. Please, I'm begging you—just one autograph!"
"I'm not sure, but I'll ask Dr. Suzuki at my next appointment. Just don't get your hopes up too much, okay?"
"Okay, thank you!"
As the two chatted happily, behind them on another bench, guards planted by Tenmei quietly listened in, their sharp eyes scanning the surroundings.
Time passed gently, and after the December finals ended, the long winter break began. Tougo, heart lifts by the town's sparkling Christmas lights and beautifully illuminated trees, worked his part-time job with excitement and joy.
His grandmother had fully recovered and was now working hard at a cleaning job at an Omega support facility.
With just three days left until Christmas, Tougo finished his part-time shift at 5 p.m. and wandered through Peace Department Store, searching for a gift for his grandmother. He couldn't afford anything expensive, so he was looking for something modest yet heartfelt.
As a year-end bonus, Peace Bookstore gave all staff members a 10,000-yen gift certificate for Peace Department Store. Back in August, Tougo had given his grandmother a stylish white silk hat for her birthday, and she had been delighted—he was so happy to see her smile.
Peace Department Store was decked out in dazzling Christmas decorations, and just walking through it was a joy. Every section was bustling with people.
Couples walking hand in hand, looking blissfully happy.
Stylish groups of women chatting and laughing together.
Families browsing the store with cheerful smiles.
Gentle elderly couples quietly taking in the sights with warm expressions.
And solitary individuals, choosing gifts with serious faces—
Among the crowd, Tougo's eyes caught a sign on the second floor of the women's section: "Scarf Sale." Curious, he walked over and found a colorful array of silk scarves priced at 10,000 yen. Beneath the tags, the original price read 59,000 yen.
"This might be a great deal," he thought, and began searching for one that would suit his grandmother. They were all beautiful, making it hard to choose—but his heart was light and cheerful.
Suddenly, a wine-colored scarf adorned with elegant autumn leaves caught his eye. When he unfolded it, the gold and silver leaves shimmered brilliantly in the light. "Yes, this is the one," he thought. Just then, a nearby store clerk comes to him.
"You've got a good eye. That's a great purchase," she said.
She explained that the scarf was leftover stock from three years ago and had only just been put on sale this year. Tougo paid with his Peace Department Store gift certificate, and his heart brimmed with joy—he felt as if he were floating on air.
Christmas Eve.
The town was wrapped in a glittering melody, and everywhere was brimming with festivity. Even in the midst of it all, Tougo was diligently working his usual part-time shift at the bookstore. Tonight, he planned to share chicken soup and strawberry cake with his grandmother.
By 5 p.m., the store was overflowing with people, and the hectic hours had flown by. After finishing work, Tougo headed to the famous cake shop on the basement level of Peace Department Store. When he picked up the strawberry cake he had reserved, his heart felt light and buoyant.
Thankfully, the shop offered a wide range of cakes—from ¥3,000 to ¥30,000—and he was delighted to be able to buy the smallest one for ¥3,000. The cake was decorated with a cute chocolate Santa Claus, and strawberries were arranged in a perfect circle. Just looking at it filled him with happiness.
On his way home, Tougo's steps were light, as if dancing to music.
In the vast lapis-colored sky, stars sparkled like scattered jewels. A mysterious, ethereal light gently showered down, as if blessing the world on Christmas Eve.
Year-end was packed with events and parties, leaving Tenmei mentally and physically exhausted. Even so, tonight he was attending a charity party—a glamorous gathering of celebrities from politics, business, academia, government, and entertainment.
Tenmei received a report from his secretary, Tachibana, that Tougo had returned home safely, and he let out a sigh of relief. The bubbles in his champagne glass danced quietly, shimmering in the soft light.
Just then, Erika Koizumi—the beloved daughter of the Minister of Defense and a renowned actress—approached Tenmei and spoke to him.
"It's been a while, Executive Tenmei. You're as handsome as ever."
Dressed in a dazzling gown and exuding the sparkling pheromones of a Nemesia, she was Japan's top elite Omega actress. At 174 cm tall and 30 years old, she continues to captivate fans worldwide with her beauty and talent.
Tenmei and Erika first met when they were both 25 years old at a charity concert party. They were instantly drawn to each other and fell into a passionate romance—but it ended after just three months.
They were both self-centered and quick to lose interest. Their intense love was fragile, easily extinguished by the slightest touch.
For those three months, passion for sex was the only thing holding them together. Erika had been satisfied with their physical compatibility, but gradually found Tenmei's selfish attitude unbearable.
Still, that brief moment remained etched in her memory.
The Koizumi family is a distinguished political dynasty that has produced multiple prime ministers throughout history. Many of its members, including Erika herself, were graduates of Japan's prestigious Peace University.
Erika had been in the entertainment industry since middle school, and now she was a globally recognized actress, known not only in Japan but around the world. Her beauty and acting talent continue to captivate fans everywhere.
"What do you want?" Tenmei asked.
"You're as curt as ever," Erika replied.
"I heard you went on a formal matchmaking date with my cousin last week. It's all over the gossip circles. Are you seriously thinking of marrying her? Kyoka is innocent and pure. She's too good for you. Please, don't do it."
"I didn't want to do it. It was my grandfather's request. Besides, she's not my type."
"Then this will be quick. Just turn her down."
"Not yet. It's a political marriage. Benefits come first."
Erika's beautiful face trembled with anger.
"A womanizer like you will only end up hurting Kyoka."
"Too late. Kyoka's already head over heels for me. She messages me every day."
"Kyoka is a pure-hearted girl with no romantic experience, even at 24. She's devoted her life to ballet. After graduating university, she's been working hard at the Tokyo Private Ballet Company. Please, stay away from her!"
Tenmei recalled Kyoka's delicate, slender face. Compared to the glamorous beauties he had dated in the past, she seemed somewhat plain to him. Her slim figure—170 cm tall and weighing 48 kg—wasn't quite his type.
Still, she wasn't bad. There was something comforting about her quiet and modest demeanor.
They had lunch together in the VIP room of the Peace Hotel, Tenmei found Kyoka's way of eating oddly mechanical. She chewed slowly, as if trying to draw out a sense of fullness—something about that habit bothered him slightly.
Kyoka explained that she had been taking appetite-suppressing medication for some time, so she couldn't eat much. She left half of the main tuna dish untouched, and didn't even eat the pistachio mousse or seasonal fruit ice cream for dessert.
Even so, she carried a quiet beauty and an air of elegance that ordinary women didn't possess.
Kyoka had studied abroad at the Royal Ballet School in Vienna since she was thirteen, and graduated from the University of Vienna as an accomplished ballerina.
Her family background was equally distinguished and impossible to ignore. Her grandfather was the chairman of the Bank of Japan, her grandmother chaired a global securities firm. Her father served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, her mother was a professor of clinical psychology at Peace University. Her uncle was the Minister of Defense, and her aunt was the president of a global telecommunications company—truly a family of elite figures from politics and finance.
A marriage proposal involving Kyoka carried far more weight than mere romance.
Tenmei slowly savored Erika's beautifully made-up face with his gaze, then took a sip of champagne. To the public, she was undeniably stunning. But to him, she lacked the kind of beauty that resonated deep within the soul—the mysterious, quiet radiance that Tougo possessed.
Tenmei had experienced many romances and worked with a wide range of people in business. Those experiences had given him the ability to see through to a person's true nature.
"You're meddling, Erika. This is Kyoka's decision. Excuse me."
Leaving Erika trembling with frustration, Tenmei quietly made his way toward the hotel terrace.
December 24th.
A rare, crystal-clear night with softened winter chill.
In the pure air, Tenmei lit a slender cigarette.
His thoughts drifted toward the future of the Peace Group. Until now, he had freely enjoyed romantic relationships—thanks to his grandfather's consideration. It was an unspoken agreement: enjoy a carefree youth, and when the time comes, marry the partner recommended to him.
Already thirty. Next year, he would turn thirty-one.
As he exhaled a thinning stream of cigarette smoke, Tenmei looked up at the indigo sky. The stars sparkled, as if celebrating the stillness of the night.
"So beautiful…"
The moment that thought crossed his mind, Tougo's face appeared in his mind's eye, floating against the night sky—elegant, mysterious, and possessing a deep beauty that made his soul rejoice quietly .
Tougo is nineteen. There's an eleven-year age gap between us.
Tenmei was born a dominant Alpha, drawing attention from a young age. At sixteen, he entered Peace University and earned his qualification as a neurosurgeon in the medical faculty.
By twenty-three, he had obtained a doctorate in business administration from Harbor University's graduate school in the U.S. While building a smooth and successful career, he had also experienced many romantic relationships.
He always respected his partner's wishes, and when necessary, handled matters sincerely through his secretary. This was a method that ensured safety and peace of mind. As a matter of courtesy, he generously expressed his gratitude.
Actresses and models in the entertainment industry were restless, hoping to be chosen by Tenmei. Being selected by him meant having the opportunity to appear in Peace Group's advertisements and sponsored productions.
Tenmei had relationships with Hollywood actresses and models as well, and there wasn't a single person in the industry who didn't know his name. J&J Entertainment, a subsidiary of the Peace Group, was essentially his playground—his personal domain.
Tenmei had known the name Tougo for a long time.
The one and only "Ultra-Dominant Omega" in the world.
When Tenmei was fifteen, he had accidentally overheard a conversation between his father and grandfather.
"He's an extremely rare existence—the first in thirty years worldwide, and the first in fifty years in Japan," his grandfather had said.
He had secretly begun pulling strings behind the scenes, hoping one day to welcome him as a partner for his grandchildren. However, due to strict government policies at the time, even making contact was impossible.
Tougo's father was a contracted researcher at the Enlightenment Public University Research Institute, studying the neurodevelopment of trait-bearers.
Her mother was an international student from Korea, serving as an assistant professor in the university's Department of Trait Psychology while pursuing a doctoral degree under a special scholarship.
Her mother was half American and half Korean, and she appeared stunningly beautiful in photos. Her maternal grandfather had served in the U.S. Air Force, and perhaps because of that influence, her mother—despite holding Korean nationality—had a distinctly American appearance.
Her mother's research gained international attention, establishing her as a promising figure for the future.
The two fell in love and soon conceived Tougo. Though they lived in poverty, they were said to have led a happy life.
Tenmei didn't know much about what happened after that.
Nowadays, the rights of trait-bearers are respected around the world, and their desire to live quietly was naturally accepted by society.
When Tenmei was twenty-seven, a scandal involving Meisei finally led to his first encounter with Tougo.
At the time, Tougo was suffering from a panic disorder and was in a dazed state, so he couldn't clearly remember Tenmei's face.
Tenmei's secretary, Tachibana, handled the subsequent procedures directly and met with Tougo to move things forward.
According to Tachibana's investigation—
Tougo had lost both his parents in a car accident when he was ten.
The accident was caused by a truck driver who had fallen asleep at the wheel. The driver died instantly at the scene.
To make matters worse, the truck was uninsured, and the driver was an independent subcontracted deliveryman.
He had no surviving relatives, leaving behind only a thirteen-year-old son.
In the end, no financial compensation was ever provided, and the driver's son was taken in by a government-run orphanage.
Tougo's parents worked at a public university, but their salaries were modest, and most of their income went toward research expenses. As a result, they had only about 500,000 yen in savings. After their deaths, Tougo and his grandmother survived on his grandmother's small part-time wages and pension.
Despite losing his parents, Tougo never cried. Even when he was alone, he always smiled. He was a child of remarkable inner strength.
This was because his mother had repeatedly told him : "If anything ever happens to us, help your grandmother and live bravely."
His mother, being a dominant Omega, seemed to possess a form of foresight.
In general, dominant Omegas are known to have a heightened sixth sense.
Tougo was an outstanding student. At age thirteen, the Ministry of Education recommended he advance to university, but he declined, saying he wanted to enjoy school life. In truth, he simply didn't want to attract attention.
In his second year of middle school, his grandmother's health began to deteriorate. As they moved from hospital to hospital, the Enlightenment Public University Hospital recommended surgery for spinal canal stenosis. However, government subsidies were minimal, and the operation was postponed. With his grandmother unable to work, they lived modestly, relying on her pension.
Tougo entered Peace Private High School, affiliated with Peace University, on a scholarship awarded to top-performing students across all grades. He excelled both academically and athletically, and was the kind of person who got along well with everyone.
While Tougo was hospitalized, Tenmei learned about his past and family circumstances. Through his secretary Tachibana, he provided various forms of support.
Tenmei likes Tougo. But to someone like him—worldly, steeped in desire—his purity and elegance were far too dazzling. That's why he could only watch over him quietly from afar.
On the terrace, where the winter wind quietly drifts through, Tenmei is steeped in a somber winter melancholy. Just then, President Hayashi of Honest Daily News quietly appeared on the terrace.
"Executive Oosora. Lovely breeze tonight."
"Yes, the air is crisp and clear."
"There are rumors spreading about your engagement to Miss Kyoka Koizumi, daughter of Chief Justice Koizumi. Are they true?"
"Well, it's a possibility."
"Is it a love match? Or a strategic alliance?"
"Heh, I'll leave that to your imagination. Now, if you'll excuse me."
With a slight bow, Tenmei disappears into the lively hotel venue.
President Hayashi's instincts, sharpened by over thirty years in journalism, had already picked up on rumors about Tenmei's affairs—especially those involving Omegas. But such gossip wasn't enough to bring him down. Hayashi kept his antenna up, always searching.
"Everyone has a flaw, without exception."Believing this, Hayashi searched all around Tenmei's life.But whether it was his family background, looks, education, connections, or charitable work—everything was so flawless that Hayashi couldn't carelessly make a move.
The gentle strains of a classical ensemble drift from the hotel hall, while a cold wind sweeps across the terrace. Standing in the chill, Hayashi feels a strange sense of clarity and lets out a bitter smile.