Two months and one week ago.
August 25th, 2034.
It was just another day in the cycle of life: people were born and passed away, cities buzzed with activity, the countryside offered its tranquil charm, and each day began anew. However, everything changed when news channels and social media platforms erupted with reports of a new virus spreading worldwide.
Everyone on social media had their own conspiracy theories, and numerous hashtags were trending, but one stood out: #Biowar.
Numerous news outlets around the world were ablaze with headlines discussing the situation
SOUTH KOREA: "긴급 소식: 이른 아침, 새로운 질병이 확산되고 있는 보고가 들어왔습니다. 환자 수가 점차 증가하고 있습니다. 소셜 미디어에서는 이것이 의도적인 행위의 결과일 수 있다는 추측이 돌고 있으며, 해시태그 #BIOWAR를 사용하고 있습니다. 그러나 이러한 주장은 확인되지 않았으며 불필요한 패닉을 유발할 수 있다는 점을 강조하는 것이 중요합니다. 우리는 신뢰할 수 있는 소스에서 정보를 얻고, 확인되지 않은 소문을 퍼뜨리지 말라고 대중에게 요청합니다. 저희 팀은 상황을 적극적으로 모니터링하고, 추가 정보가 나오면 업데이트를 제공할 것입니다."
JAPAN: "緊急ニュース:今朝早く,新しい病気が広がっているとの報告が出ました.患者数の増加が観察されています.ソーシャルメディアで広がっている憶測では,これが故意の行為の結果である可能性が示唆されています.ハッシュタグ #BIOWAR を使用しています.しかし,これらの主張は未検証であり,不必要なパニックを引き起こす可能性があることを強調することが重要です.私たちは,信頼できる情報源からの情報に依存し,未確認の噂を広めないように公衆に呼びかけます.私たちのチームは状況を積極的に監視しており,新しい情報が入手可能になると更新情報を提供します."
INDIA: "ताज़ा ख़बर: सुबह के पहले, एक नए बीमारी के फैलने की रिपोर्टें सामने आई हैं, जिसमें मरीजों की संख्या धीरे-धीरे बढ़ रही है। सोशल मीडिया पर एक विचार फैल रहा है कि यह इस तरह के किसी ठोस कार्य का परिणाम हो सकता है, हैशटैग #BIOWAR का उपयोग करके। हालांकि, यह महत्वपूर्ण है कि ये दावे सत्यापित नहीं हैं और अनावश्यक भय को बढ़ा सकते हैं। हम जनता से यह निवेदन करते हैं कि उन्हें विश्वसनीय स्रोतों से जानकारी प्राप्त करने और अप्रमाणित अफवाहें फैलाने से बचने का प्रयास करें। हमारी टीम स्थिति का सकारात्मक रूप से निगराना कर रही है और अधिक जानकारी मिलने पर अपडेट प्रदान करेगी।"
UGANDA: "Habari Muhimu: Alfajiri mapema, ripoti za ugonjwa mpya unaosambaa zimeibuka, huku idadi ya wagonjwa ikiongezeka taratibu. Kuna uvumi unaosambaa kwenye mitandao ya kijamii unaopendekeza kwamba hii inaweza kuwa matokeo ya kitendo cha makusudi, kwa kutumia lebo #BIOWAR. Hata hivyo, ni muhimu kusisitiza kwamba madai haya hayajathibitishwa na yanaweza kusababisha hofu isiyo ya lazima. Tunawaomba umma kutegemea taarifa kutoka kwa vyanzo vinavyoaminika na kujizuia kusambaza uvumi usiothibitishwa. Timu yetu inafuatilia kwa karibu hali hiyo na itatoa habari za ziada kadri zinavyopatikana."
CHINA: "最新消息:今早传出新疾病蔓延的报道,患者数量逐渐增加.社交媒体上流传着一种猜测,暗示这可能是故意行为的结果,使用了标签 #BIOWAR.然而,重要的是强调这些说法尚未经证实,可能会引发不必要的恐慌.我们敦促公众依赖可靠来源的信息,避免传播未经证实的谣言.我们的团队正在积极监控情况,并将随着更多信息的获得提供更新."
USA: "Breaking News: Early this morning, reports emerged of a new disease spreading, with a gradual increase in the number of patients. Speculation on social media suggests that this may be the result of deliberate action, using the hashtag #BIOWAR. However, it is important to emphasize that these claims are unverified and could cause unnecessary panic. We urge the public to rely on information from reliable sources and refrain from spreading unconfirmed rumors. Our team is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available."
RUSSIA: "Последние новости: Сегодня утром появились сообщения о распространении нового заболевания, с постепенным увеличением числа пациентов. В социальных сетях ходят слухи о том, что это может быть результатом преднамеренного акта, с использованием хэштега #BIOWAR. Однако важно подчеркнуть, что эти утверждения не подтверждены и могут способствовать ненужной панике. Мы призываем общественность полагаться на информацию из достоверных источников и воздерживаться от распространения неподтвержденных слухов. Наша команда активно отслеживает ситуацию и будет предоставлять обновления по мере поступления новой информации."
Many news channels and social media platforms were actively working to raise awareness about the virus, providing the public with the latest updates, and debunking misinformation. Their efforts played a crucial role in ensuring accurate information reached the general public.
Simultaneously, hospitals worldwide experienced an influx of patients due to a new and fast-spreading virus. Reports from hospitals and health ministries in various countries suggested a significant impact, with a growing number of cases reported within just three days.
Symptoms reported included severe bodily coldness and bleeding from multiple openings. Immediate treatment was critical for some infected individuals to prevent fatalities. Additionally, some cases exhibited a white layer covering the iris, indicating potential nervous system damage.
While the number of deaths among the infected increased gradually, it was essential to note the severity of the situation, though exact figures might vary. Reliable sources continued to monitor and provide updates on the evolving situation.
Governments worldwide closely monitored the sharp increase in deaths following the rapid spread of the virus over just a few days. Various media platforms, including newspapers, articles, TV shows, and social media, discussed the nature of the virus and its global transmission. Hashtags like #pandemic and #leakedexperiment gained traction on major social media platforms, reflecting public concerns as articles detailing the rising death toll were continuously shared.
News broadcasts worldwide made extensive efforts to cover the situation comprehensively. However, there were reports suggesting that in some countries, news channels might be limiting the dissemination of crucial information, possibly due to government directives.
Experts, including scientists and doctors, shared their insights on the virus through their social media accounts and interviews. While reputable sources contributed valuable information, it was essential to discern credible experts from individuals spreading misinformation.
A YouTuber reported an interview with a renowned scientist, who stated:
"It is challenging to determine the origin of the virus and how it spread globally. There are speculations that it may have disseminated through various means, including oceanic routes, possibly involving fish. However, it's important to note that these are speculative hypotheses without concrete evidence.
The infection rate varies significantly, with some areas experiencing rates as high as infecting 3 to 5 people out of every 10. This underscores the importance of robust public health measures and vigilant monitoring to contain the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations.
We urge every country to implement stringent measures such as lockdowns and quarantine protocols to contain the spread of the virus. These measures, combined with widespread testing and contact tracing, are essential in mitigating the impact of the pandemic and facilitating the development of effective treatments and vaccines."
Initially, some governments were hesitant to implement quarantine measures, citing concerns about the potential economic impact and public opposition. However, as the death toll continued to rise, many countries swiftly changed their approach. Within just two weeks of the virus spreading, numerous nations announced nationwide lockdowns and established quarantine camps. Authorities began relocating individuals, including both humans and animals, to quarantine centers, even for minor fevers.
While most countries adopted stringent measures, including lockdowns and quarantine zones, a few, such as the USA, faced challenges in implementing such measures due to various factors, including public opposition. Additionally, some countries opted for quarantine zones instead of complete lockdowns, citing economic crises and other considerations.
News broadcasts worldwide now delivered urgent messages, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. Authorities urged individuals to wear masks, maintain physical distancing, and avoid gatherings to curb the spread of the virus.
In response to the escalating crisis, authorities implemented strict measures overnight. Quarantine zones emerged rapidly, isolating affected areas from the wider society. Military patrols were deployed to enforce curfews and restore order amidst the growing chaos.
After two months of quarantine, a breakthrough occurred: a cure developed by China halted the virus's ability to attack individuals, leading to a significant decrease in deaths and an increase in recoveries. This development astounded medical professionals, who credited the effectiveness of the Chinese-made cure in bolstering the body's immune response and stopping the virus in its tracks. Patients with severe symptoms, particularly those affecting the nervous system, were swiftly transferred to specialized hospitals and research facilities supported by the government for further evaluation and treatment.
As the situation improved, most quarantine centers were shuttered, with only a few remaining operational for individuals still exhibiting symptoms. Consequently, the majority of patients were discharged from quarantine.
After careful consideration and monitoring of the situation, the government announced a phased lifting of quarantine and lockdown measures. A week ago, it was declared that starting tomorrow, restrictions would be gradually eased, marking a return to normalcy. However, authorities stressed the continued importance of remaining vigilant and adhering to preventive measures to prevent any potential resurgence of the virus.
In the present day, mere hours before the outbreak of zombies across the globe...
November 1st, 2034.
At the Arctic Pole, a team of scientists huddled before a massive screen within a secure laboratory, their expressions etched with tension as they awaited an incoming video call.
All the major countries' presidents and prime ministers were visible on the screen.
The President of the USA asked, "What is that virus that spread a few months back? Does it have any connections to the ancient virus found in the permafrost of the Arctic?"
Stan, the chief scientist of the base, replied, "It is the same virus."
Both the American and Indian heads exclaimed simultaneously, "What are you saying? How did the virus get out?"
Stan interjected, "We've been raising concerns about spies and missing equipment for some time now. You didn't hear us then, but now you're asking how!"
The President of the USA then asked, "Okay, our shortsightedness let the virus escape from the Arctic. However, thanks to the collective efforts of all countries, the spread has been contained, and a cure, provided by the Chinese government, has been distributed. The real concern is, was the cure also stolen from the Arctic base?"
Mr. Stan responded, "We're relieved to hear that people survived, but I can't confirm if the cure was stolen from the base. We tested the Chinese-provided cure and found it to be somewhat identical to ours but more advanced. However, it's essential to note that the cure merely suppresses the virus, allowing the body to generate antibodies to fight it."
He continued, "There might be a need for another lockdown, so be prepared for that."
The President of Britain slammed his fist onto the desk in front of him, his voice seething with anger. "What you're saying is that the cure you've developed is still incomplete, and the virus remains a threat. Why should we continue pouring millions of dollars into this research if you can't deliver results?"
Stan, his frustration boiling over, kicked his chair back and rose to his feet, pointing a finger at the British President's image on the screen. "Are you even listening? You ignored our warnings about spies among us and yet you have the audacity to spout this nonsense," he declared.
"How can you expect us to unravel the mysteries of a virus buried for 10,000 years in this icy wasteland and demand a cure within just 4 years?"
"Who authorized you to hold the positions of world leaders?"
All of Mr. Stan's staff looked at him with a mixture of fear and admiration for standing up against the world leaders.
Addressing all the world leaders on the video call, Stan stated, "Regardless of the consequences, whether it's loss of lives, global economic collapse, or even the threat of a zombie outbreak, we need time, cooperation, and enhanced security measures."
All world leaders glared at Stan as he stood firm, refusing to back down.
Simultaneously, the world leaders were interrupted by their secretaries, ministers, and other officials. Fear filled their faces as they heard the news, their expressions turning pale as they witnessed the gore on the screen.
A few zombies slowly entered the video conference room, startling all the scientists with the sight of patients suffering from nervous system failure walking.
At the same time, the Singapore President shouted loudly upon hearing their secretary's report, "People eating people!" Without warning, his primary security guard, who was standing next to him, suddenly doubled over in pain and began vomiting blood. The President looked on in shock, pausing for a moment. Within minutes, the guard abruptly rose to his feet and lunged at nearby individuals, tearing into them with ferocity. The President of Singapore met a grisly fate, devoured live on the screen before the horrified eyes of the world leaders.
As the world leaders looked on in panic, unsure of what was happening, similar chaos erupted at the Arctic base.
One of the zombies approached a scientist near the door, lunging and grabbing him. Despite the scientist's efforts to defend himself, the zombie's weight bore down on him, resulting in a bite to the neck.
The chief scientist quickly called the soldiers stationed outside through the telecom device. "Soldiers, we're in danger. We need assistance."
The soldiers swiftly responded and intervened, despite the zombies' resistance and attempts to bite through their protective gear. The thickness of the gear prevented the zombies' teeth from penetrating the soldiers' skin.
The scientist who was bitten, Dr. Harrison, became sick within just five minutes, experiencing symptoms such as vomiting blood and a deepening of his voice.
After 10 minutes, people in the base were saying, "What the hell is going on? The Singapore president got killed. What the fuck is going on in the base?"
Chief Scientist Stan approached Dr. Harrison, checked his pulse, and solemnly announced, "He's gone." Stan then instructed one of the scientists, "Stella, bring the stretcher."
As Stan was talking with Stella, Dr. Harrison's dead body suddenly rose up, startling all the presidents and scientists.
The President of Europe exclaimed, "He's getting up, just like that bodyguard!"
Without wasting any time, it lunged at Stan, biting into his neck. Blood spilled onto the ground as half of Stan's neck was devoured. When one of the scientists attempted to pull the zombie away, it turned back with a groan and leaped at the scientist, tearing into him and consuming him as well.
The speed of this zombie was so fast that even world-class runners wouldn't stand a chance against it. In comparison to the previous zombies taken away by soldiers, this one's speed was unmatched.
Anyone who disturbed the zombie while it was feeding was bitten and devoured by it. Within 10 minutes, those bitten on the neck died and rose again as zombies to continue the rampage within the base lab.
Individuals bitten on the hands and shoulders began to exhibit symptoms of infection within 20 to 25 minutes, gradually transforming into zombies shortly thereafter. Those bitten on the legs and thighs experienced a slower progression, taking between 45 minutes to an hour to succumb to the virus and become zombies.
In this manner, the entire base lab of scientists is overrun by zombies, and soon, the infection spreads beyond the confines of the lab to engulf the entire world. The question lingers: will the virus remain consistent in its effects, or will it mutate and become even more formidable? Only time will unveil the answer, as humanity faces its greatest challenge yet.