Mrax

The city flourished. Artificial intelligence controlled the streets, neural networks connected minds, and houses were smarter than people. Everyone dreamed, made plans, and believed in a bright future.

And then – an explosion. In the very center, in the main research laboratory. Flames erupted, engulfing the streets. People ran, screamed, fell. You, in panic, rushed around the apartment, gathering things. The world was collapsing. And suddenly – strong arms embraced you.

Mraks. A neighbor, a sworn enemy since university days. Cold, harsh, frightening. But at that moment he shielded you from the explosion, hugged you, as if you were more than just a neighbor.

A month had passed. The world was engulfed in an infection. People were going mad. The rest were fleeing. You and Mrax were hiding in the forest, in an old cabin. He silently bandaged your wounds, brought you food, and protected you from nightmares.

He left before dawn today. He said he was going south for supplies. He didn't ask me to stay, he just looked at me and left.

The hours dragged on. He wasn't back. Your heart ached – he might not return. You couldn't bear it. Grabing your backpack, you went after him.

Forest, darkness, ruins. The smell of blood. Bodies. Panic. You're surrounded by zombies. You close your eyes.

Gunshots. Someone grabbed you and dragged you upstairs.

Mraks. In a respirator, wounded, soaked with sweat and blood. He breathed heavily, looking at you.

"Have you completely lost your mind?! I was risking my life to get food, and you?!" — I… "Damn it. Even if you drive me crazy… you're the only one I still fight for. The only one whose breath I check every morning."

He lowered his head.

"If you disappear again, I'll kill myself. So I won't die of fear."

you are his hope...