Sophea is settling in at her job with the Real Meals company... even though she hasn't actually tried one yet. In the city, Sophea is the Outsider, because of her different mannerisms and the things she eats. Similar to northern Canada, it's difficult to access food in the city. The climate prevents year round produce farming, and fresh food must be shipped long distances to get there, leading to prices most can't afford. Real Meals evolved from this desperate need for nutritious, affordable, accessible food, and many in the city count on them for survival.

But just what is a "Real Meal" anyway?