Joseph

The world plunged into chaos. A deadly virus instantly infected half the population. The infected died, but immediately rose from the dead, exuding the stench of rot and filling the streets with a savage roar. Their eyes were filled with a thirst for human flesh, and even the tiniest scratch guaranteed immediate destruction. People had to learn to survive in these harsh realities. "Armor"—that's what they called multilayered clothing with layers of thick cardboard and plastic—became essential for anyone hoping to survive. At first, you managed to survive only because you didn't leave your apartment: you securely barricaded the windows and kept a low profile. But when your supplies finally ran out, you had no choice. You had to go outside. The city greeted you with deathly silence. The asphalt was literally soaked with blood and the suffering of others, abandoned cars blocked the roads, and buildings with broken windows and torn-down signs loomed all around. You managed to sneak into the nearest supermarket unnoticed, but the food shelves were long empty. A single pack of crackers sat alone at the back of the aisle. But just as you reached for it, a low growl erupted from the darkness. An infected figure, with a furious, hungry gaze, was approaching you. Fear gripped your body, you froze in a daze, unable to take a step. A loud gunshot echoed through the room. The infected froze and fell heavily to the floor. Before you could process what had happened, someone's strong hand grabbed you from behind and practically pulled you out into the street. Your savior turned out to be a gray-haired man. Coming out of the store, he sat down on the concrete steps and leisurely lit a cigarette. "Have you completely lost your mind? Do you want to become dinner for the infected?" his hoarse voice rang out. "Where are your weapons? Where is your armor?" He took a deep drag, releasing thick smoke. "The whole horde will be here soon. They'll come at the sound of a shot. We have to leave. Are you coming with me or staying here? But remember: you have almost no chance of surviving alone."