Station-wide, the exodus continued.
On Level 8, ten thousand Gammas moved up simultaneously. Overwhelming checkpoints through sheer numbers.
On Level 6, Beta workers joined the protest. "We're tired of serving Alphas too!"
On Level 4, Alpha families barricaded themselves in luxury apartments, terrified of the rising tide.
The social order was collapsing.
Ashton watched from his office, seeing his worst nightmare unfold. "How many have moved up?"
"Estimated twenty thousand Gammas above their designated levels," Agent Reeves reported. "And growing."
"Can we push them back?"
"Not without massive civilian casualties, sir. And some of our own forces are... hesitating."
Ashton's hands shook. "Hesitating?"
"Several Beta officers have refused orders to fire on Gammas. They're saying the people have a right to move freely."
The system was fracturing. Not just genetically but ideologically. People were choosing sides.
"Declare martial law," Ashton ordered. "Full lockdown. Anyone moving between levels is shot on sight."
"Sir, that's—"
"Do it!"
The order went out. But half the security forces ignored it. Some actively defied it.
The station was splitting apart.
Gamma versus Alpha. Beta caught in between. And the question everyone faced: which side of history would they be on?