Undead Horizon

Chapter 03: Trust

It's been three days since we saved Sage from the infected. Three days since the outbreak started in NYC, and maybe the whole world. We're holed up in my house, waiting for something to happen. The water and electricity are still on, but we don't know for how long. We did some online research and found out that they could last for a few weeks, unless the infected got into the power plants or water treatment facilities. Either way, we've started to fill whatever containers we can find with water, even though tap water in New York tastes like liquid metal, but better safe than sorry.

With electricity, we tune in to whatever news channel we can catch up on. In our shock, they're still broadcasting, despite the chaos and violence that have engulfed the country, especially in California. Not only do they have to worry about the infected, but also the riots, looters, and murderers who are killing other survivors for food and fun. The authorities in Los Angeles tried to make a safe haven for the survivors in that city, but there's a catch; only the rich and famous can stay there, protected by the military.

That, of course, pissed people off, because it's the end of the fucking world and there are monsters roaming around, and the CDC hasn't given any updates on the vaccine, making ordinary survivors restless and desperate. The last thing we heard about the LA situation was last night, so who knows what happened to the exclusive safe zone for the elite.

Besides LA, all major news stations are showing the presidential address. Our president is speaking to the nation with a somber yet determined expression, his voice echoing through the room as he stands at the podium.

"My fellow Americans," he begins, "we find ourselves in unprecedented circumstances. The events of the past few days have shaken our nation to its core. Our major cities have been overrun, our citizens have faced unimaginable horrors, and our resolve has been tested like never before."

He pauses, as if choosing his words carefully. "It is clear that the situation is dire. We have been confronted with a threat that has disrupted our way of life. Families have been torn apart, and we have lost too many loved ones."

The President goes on to praise the bravery and resilience of first responders, medical professionals, and countless ordinary citizens who have stepped up to help one another. "Our government is working tirelessly to address this crisis. We have been in contact with experts from various fields, and we are committed to finding a solution. Our top scientists are working around the clock, collaborating with international partners to understand the nature of this threat and develop a vaccine. We will not rest until we have answers."

He continues, "In the face of uncertainty, we must remain united. We must remember the principles that this nation was built upon: freedom, democracy, and the pursuit of happiness. Even in these dark times, our American spirit prevails."

The President then addresses the concerns about the situation in Los Angeles. "I understand the frustration and anger many of you feel about the safe zone in Los Angeles. The safety of our citizens is a top priority. We are in constant communication with local authorities to ensure that every American is treated fairly and protected. Our military is working diligently to maintain order and security."

He concludes his address with a message of hope. "We will emerge from this crisis stronger and more resilient than ever. We will rebuild our cities, mend our communities, and honor the memory of those we've lost. We are the United States of America, and may God bless us all."

The broadcast ends, and the room falls into a heavy silence. Sage and I look at each other, wondering if the President is telling the truth or just feeding us lies. He said the government is working tirelessly to find a cure for the infection, but how can we trust him?