Low Heath

Document 2A: Class V Infected (Cont)

Satisfied with the first tape, the hooded stranger pops it out, stuffing it in their bag. Ruffling around their pockets, they pull out another tape, thus one in seemingly better condition. They insert it into the receiver, popping open a can of beans and pulling out a spoon. Before they can dig in, the television hums to life again, making loud beeps and hums. The stranger, caught off guard, frantically attempts to silence the tv. As they sloppily fail to turn the volume off, soft humming could be heard, closing in on the room. Panicked, the stranger hits the tv with a rock, instantly silencing the beeps. The tape finally plays, and the gruff voice of the General returns to the old tv's primitive speakers.

"TAPE ONE- SECTION 2-A: COMMON AND EVOLVED INFECTED(CONTINUED)

This research was submitted by Doctor [REDACTED], Zod rest their soul.

This tape is a continuation of Tape [REDACTED], containing extended examples of Infected forms. As stated before, this tape, and its contents, are forbidden for human viewing.

Case Four,  Codename: [UNKNOWN.]

Rose's infected  from inhalation of Haze spores.

Physical mutations: Petal growth increases slightly. Loss of control over innate magic. Vine length and strength increases. Thorns sharpen.

An infected rose is a rare sight to see, as they're usually quarantined inside their respective castles, for fear of their magic capabilities. Little is known about these elusive individuals, as most times when a Rose is infected, they simply explode from the sudden massive spike in magic. If one is spotted, do not engage. We don't know enough to warrant the risk. Keep your distance.

Rumors have circulated about an evolved variant. Larger, tougher, and with a complete mastery over their now overflowing magical power. While these sightings are unconfirmed, stay cautious just in case.

Case Five,   Codename: TRICKSTER

Cacti infected from inhalation of Haze spores.

Physical mutations: Thicker thorns. Increased head flower growth. Hollow interior. Venomous thorns. Increased intellect.

One of the weirdest damn plants, cacti have always been oddballs, and the Haze only seemed to amplify that. These things can adapt to nearly any situation, changing colors to match their surroundings, setting up traps to snare survivors, and more. And, due to the haze passively hollowing out their bodies and altering their vocal cords, these creepy bastards can even MIMIC VOICES. They are also notably more intelligent than their peers, recognizing traps and disabling them effectively.

As you could have guessed, the passive hollowing of their bodies is very painful, making the afflicted plant much more aggressive during mating. And even though they can retract their thorns, sometimes they get too caught up in the moment, leading to multiple puncture wounds during their riding. If one catches you, pray to whatever god you believe in, this will hurt.

Before we move on to the mutants, we shall discuss exactly what happens if you are caught. This information was recorded by one of our scouts, who unfortunately didn't make it back from one of her missions fully intact.

Phase 1. After a long "bonding" session, the cuts, bruises, and other minor injuries sustained during your capture will heal at an accelerated rate, as long as continued contact with the Haze is continued. Little to no mental or physical changes

Phase 2. After a week or so of prolonged contact, something horrifying will happen. Overtime, the eye on the dominant side (if you are right handed, this affects your right eye) will begin to be consumed by vines. After an excruciating process, during which the Infected ensures the victim doesn't leave their sight, a sprout/mycelium strand will begin to grow out of their eye, the roots beginning to grow around their brain. The sprout will grow to be the same plant/fungus that their mate is. Thinking is now heavily influenced by the plant, and only the strongest wills can resist orders.

Phase 3 has not yet been sighted, so at the moment remains unknown.

MUTANTS

Case One-HX,  Codename: BRUTE

Infected Sunflowers in which, by prolonged contact with Haze spores, evolved into something much worse.

Sunflowers are a peculiar case when it comes to how the infection evolves within their bodies. Their mutations go as follows; larger petals, thicker stems and arms, as well as the development of large, pink thorns and vines that start to grow from where the heart would be, if they had them. Even if there was a cure, they're too far gone to save now. Almost makes you feel bad, until you remember that they're a filthy plant. Returning to the subject, these adaptations turn infected Sunflowers into hulking bunker busters, capable of shattering wood and stone and bending steel with ease. Close quarters combat will get you snagged.

Now, this may seem like these bastard plants are unstoppable,  however there is still some hope. For whatever reason, the Haze somehow reactivated the ancient Primal Sunflower genes, which may have something to do with their increased bulk. However, this also ate away at their intelligence, making these plants dumber than dirt, and thus easily distracted. Keep a distraction on hand, stay quick on your feet, and you may make it out alive without your nuts drained.

This is all of the information present at this time. I hope you can make use of it. Remember, this is no ordinary infection. Don't hide and wait for help, as none is coming. Do whatever it takes to see tomorrow. Stay cautious, General Mastiff out."