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The Feeding
Gilbert Collins
Science Fiction
3104 Oak Trail Way
Word Count 108,150
Leeds Alabama 35094
writingfromthesoul@hotmail.com
205-914-0508

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INTRODUCTION
The United States has always been in a race to have the most
superior weapons in the world, we were the first to develop the atom bomb
in 1945, the hydrogen bomb 1953, and we have the most nuclear warheads
with some 5,113 active since 2010. That superiority was put in question
however in New York with events of 911, when a small band of terrorist made
all our weaponry seem useless. Since that tragic day the United States has
been concerned about a chemical attack from these or other terrorist.
After several years of research the military, with the help of some
brilliant scientist have developed a breakthrough in modern day warfare, a
weapon that can cause an enemy to destroy themselves. Doctor Stan
Weston, world renowned for his work with viruses and their effects on the
DNA replication, he has found a way to combine human DNA with animals
through viruses.
On June 22, 2011 the top secret weapon 396 is given the code name
the Feeding Virus. Once this chemical weapon is released it causes a person
to become cannibalistic, stopping at nothing to feed on human organs. The
idea is groundbreaking to take out an enemy without firing a shot, but it was
not accepted by NATO, and the United States was ordered to destroy it.
General Dale Applewood a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in
Washington pushed to get the weapon developed. He was planning to run for
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public office using the weapon as his platform. Devastated by the news and
fuelled by rage the general sabotages the plane carrying the virus bound for
Alabama.
Just outside the town of Rock Hill South Carolina is where the plane
crashes and the devastation starts. The Christmas Holiday is approaching,
but people of the small town are unaware of whats going on, it just seems
like an extra bad cold and flu season.
The first attack happens at the Heart residence in Rock Hill, Jean is
feed up with her husband cheating, but when she confronts him Jean has a
reaction from the virus murdering and mutilating his body. Several more
attacks follow which leaves Sheriff Bobby Smith wondering why he left
Charlotte.
The sheriff calls in the military and they have orders to shoot
anyone having a reaction because this is the only way to tell a person has
the virus. Despite everyones best efforts the virus still keeps spreading even
to other cities. Iris Carter a success realtor who lives in Rock Hill is headed to
San Francisco for an awards ceremony; however during the ceremony a
woman cuts her finger on a wine glass, Iris follows the woman to the
restroom killing and mutilating her. Several people seen Iris leaving the
scene and now she is running from the police and trying to get back to Rock
Hill to get a cure for the virus.
As the virus spreads across country General Applewood knows he has
to do something before the public finds out it was created by the
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government. The general and the director of the Joint the Chiefs Harry
Gibson come up with a plan to drop a sub-nuclear bomb on Rock Hill
eliminating the problem, and covering up General Applewoods sabotage of
the first plane. The doctor is in a race against time; see if Doctor Weston can
save a city, and the country from this devastation. They give the doctor until
midnight New Years Eve to come up with an anti-dose, see if he meets the
deadline, or does something much worse happen.

CHAPTER ONE

A the large orange sun rises above the eastern sky over the Baliem
Valley in New Guinea, a group of native women are weaving long cord-like
vines that are used for their homes, Doctor Weston sort of smiles watching
the old men in the room gaze to the topless native women. The bright rays
of light glisten off the tree tops illuminating the area below, and everything
in the jungle seems to come alive, Stan says pushing the button to change
the power point picture. Doctor Jim Atkins and Doctor Stan Weston are here
at Bio Tech Corporation trying to get funding for another trip to study the
New Guinea people. Stan Weston is a tall thin dark-haired man, with dark
eyes and smooth skin showing his Italian decent, and Jim Atkins is much
older heavy-set with long stringy hair, but a very outgoing personality. The
room is dark and quiet as the three board members look and listen to Stans
presentation. Amazingly the New Guinea natives have been making their
tree tops huts for centuries using only branches and rope like vines. On any

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given day these people can be found hunting, most are masters at hunting of
any size game, fishing, and building the huts that line the tree tops, the
power point picture changes. The young men are taught the valuable skill of
hunting, while the women are taught to clean and cook whatever of animal
that is brought in from a days kill. Although primitive these natives have
their own social order, they even have a way to rid the tribe of any
sickness..cannibalism. Whenever a member of the tribe becomes sick, this
is a sign of weakness. If they dont recover quickly the sick person is killed
and eaten, this is the tribal tradition, Stan explains changing the power
point to display a graph. What has intrigued me about these people since
weve started this study the women in this village are dying at alarming rate,
while the men are unaffected? We feel that the men have something in their
immune system that may help fight cancer one day. That is the reason for
another trip to the area to take blood samples and bring them back for
testing, Stan says turning on the lights in the conference room. The three
old men on the board of Bio Tech seemed to be impressed shaking Stans
hand several times before Doctor Jones the head of the board says, Ill give
my official answer tomorrow, but if I were you I would start packing. Jim
gives Stan a high five, You did it. Yes, we did, I could not have pulled this
off without you, Stan sits down and breaths a shy of relief, but he still has a
troubled look on his face. Whats wrong buddy its done, you heard the man
lets get packing. Hey, be at my place at eight tonight we are going to
celebrate, no excuses, Jim pats him on the back quickly leaving. Stan has
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not told anyone that the military has approached him to make a top secret
chemical weapon and he needs the blood samples of the New Guinea people
to complete the project. Doctor Stan Weston is in a dilemma, the extra two
million dollars grant money given to him by the military was needed, but
Stan really doesnt want to make a virus that will kill people. Hes already
committed to the project, so hell have to finish. Stan decides to go get a
couple of drinks to help him relax.
Jim and his wife have invited a few friends to their home to help
celebrate receiving the funding for another trip to New Guinea; Jim even
invited Jennifer a single friend from college for Stan. He has not been the
same since his wife Beth died; he rarely goes out on dates just working
always working. Everyone waits and waits but Stan does not show. Jennifer is
sipping on a glass of wine and growing more inpatient by the minute. Finally
right before the party is over Stan shows up carrying an empty bottle of
wine. Ok.Im here lets get this party started, Stans words are slurred.
Hey man youre drunk, how did you get here, Jim asks. I drove, how do
you think, Stan struggles to stand up. Come on buddy let me take you
home; weve got to leave tomorrow, Jim puts his arm around him and helps
Stan to his car. This is the guy you fixed me up with, thanks a lot Jim,
Jennifer says storming off.
Well buddy looks you ruined your chances with that girl, Jim says
glancing at Stan as he drives. Ah who needs her..Ive got a secret and no
one knows, Stan slurs putting one finger up to his lips. What are you
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talking about man, Jim just thinks its the booze talking. I cant tell you
its a secret, Stan whispers looking around to see if anyone is listening. You
need a good nights sleep and several cups of coffee and youll be fine, Jim
pulls the car up to Stans place and helps him inside. Whats wrong with
him, Paul and Reggie both asks, Your father has had a little too much to
drink, be sure to set you clocks our plane leaves at six in the morning you
guys be ready and make sure Stan is ready, Jim says as he leaves.
Doctor Stan Weston made his first trip to New Guinea two years ago
doing a study on the peoples culture. That is when he discovered the women
of this particular tribe were dying at alarming rate. Stan also met a sixteen
year old boy named Akua, who he fell in love with. Akua followed Stan
everywhere, his bright young mind full of questions. He couldnt speak much
English, but would ask why with the most concerned eyes. Stan decides to
legally adopt the child and bring him back to the U.S. Stan gives him the
name Reggie, after his best friend who was killed in Viet Nam. Reggie has
always wanted to go to America to get a good education, now his dream will
come true. Once he got to Ohio Reggie worked really hard day and night
finishing high school in one year. He did this by taking high school grade
level test; once he passed Reggie could move to the next grade. His college
level studies were even more extraordinary making straight As in science
and math; he wants to be a doctor like Stan. Now Reggie and Paul, Westons
son is helping with the new project Stan just started.

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Doctor Westons specialty is viruses, creating and destroying them,
Stan has made some great strides in DNA replications combining human DNA
with animals, using viruses, and his success in this field has given him
national attention. Stan gets Paul and Reggie to assist him, with his project,
but he cannot give them details on what they are doing. Stan needs large
amounts of the New Guineas blood, to finish the military project so he has to
return to Reggies village.
A few days ago Reggie over-hears Stan telling Paul to make sure he
goes by the post office and picks up his passport. When Reggie finds out he
was going back home he could not sleep for several nights leading up to trip.
Reggie when you do get home youre going fall asleep from exhaustion,
Stan says as they leave for the airport. Oh no, Mr. Weston, I am really in
good shape, Ill be fine, he says glancing out the window. Doctor Weston has
tried to get Reggie to call him Stan, but he insists to call him, Mr. Weston. As
Stan and Jim walk up the boarding ramp together Stan whispers, Hey did I
say anything crazy the other night. Yeah you were talking about some
secret, but you wouldnt tell me what it was, Jim laughs remembering how
funny Stan looks drunk. Stan breathes a sigh of relief as his party boards the
huge 767 jet and finds their seats. Reggies eyes are like saucers from
excitement, looking around at the inside of the plane and out the small
windows. Ten minutes after the plane is airborne Reggie falls to sleep, his
head fallen over on the top of the seat next to him. I see he finally gave
out, Paul laughs. Yeah, I guess he is excited to return home being the first
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one in a long line of family members to finish college. How do you feel about
going to the jungle, Stan asks Paul. I have to admit its a little scary, but I
can handle it, Stan just smiles wondering if Paul can really handle what hes
about to see.
Last week a fierce hurricane swept through the New Guinea area
destroying most of their homes. Today while rebuilding their huts the chief of
the tribe spots strangers headed up river to their camp. The first canoe holds
Doctor Weston and his son Paul and the second holds Reggie and Stans
longtime friend and colleague, Jim Atkins. As the two canoes quietly make
their way up river, and the chief thinks he recognizes one of the men. Stan
is close to getting the last piece of this special project, he starts to remember
his childhood and what a long way he has come since the old two story
house on Primrose Avenue, in Portsmouth Ohio. He and his sister Teresa grew
up there; times were a lot different then. Stan remembers he had to sleep on
the sofa downstairs, the drafty old windows would let cold air through
blowing the thin white curtains up like flags, making Stan think ghost were
riding in their house on the wind.
Stan also thinks about his beautiful wife Beth, with long sandy brown
hair and a smile that could melt the coldest heart. He remembers the
beautiful cottage they had on the lake and on hot summer days they would
just float in a small boat on the water, he misses her so much. Beth died
from cancer when Paul was two years old. It was tough but, Teresa Stans
sister was a huge help raising Paul while Stan spent time working and
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studying. Once his wife died Stan threw himself into his work thats why he
has been so successful. Dad, I think we are being watched, Paul says
bringing him back to reality. A stream like mist has begun to rise, which
inhibits their view a bit, but Stan sees the faint images of natives in the trees
along the rivers edge. The distinct sound of alligators splashing gives Paul
an uneasy feeling. Do you think we are safe, Paul asks watching the
reptiles float in the water alongside of them. As long as we stay in the canoe
well be fine, Stan Weston sort of smiles, this is his sons first trip to a place
like this. As the men place their oars in and out of the alligator infested
waters, there seems to be more and more natives watching them. Doctor
Stan Weston and his colleagues have been studying the tribes cannibalistic
practices for the past few years; he knows they can be very aggressive when
threatened. Stan remembers his first trip to the New Guinea village the chief
took him to a special hut that had nothing but bowled skulls hanging all
around, it must have been some kind of trophy of the people they have
eaten. Now Stan hopes he can trade food for samples of the New Guineas
blood.
Once Stan Westons party reaches a shallow part in the river a group
of natives come out to meet them. The men are dark skinned dressed only
on a straw-like garment that barely covers their privates. All of the natives
are muscular, but one of them is taller than the rest and has on a different
colored head piece. That must be the chief, Paul whispers. Yes it is, Stan
remembers him well, the chief is an agreeable man, he let Stan adopt his
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son, but he has a very intimidating stare, and of course does not speak
English. When the chief gets to the waters edge he stops and looks at
Reggie, whose dark skin tone has faded a little from being in Ohio, but the
chief knows who it is. Akua, Akua, the chief says. Reggie runs to his father
hugging him tightly. The chief calls the whole tribe together to see their first
college man.
Tribal drums begin to play as Doctor Weston and the group is lead
into the camp; there the women come out of their huts to see the white men
as they walk by. They are also dressed in straw-like garments barely covering
their privates, and fully exposed breast. Paul begins to stare, Son whatever
you do dont stare at their women, they might get angry, Stan whispers
nervously, he hopes the drums are for celebration and not because they
might be dinner. Most of the men including the chief wear head gear made of
colorful feathers some have their face painted white, while others are
painted yellow. Stan believes it helps them to blend into the jungle to help
with hunting. Reggie begins a conversation in their language with his father
the chief explaining what they intend to do, but the chief and the native
people think the needles used to draw blood were filled with poison, because
they use poison needle-like darts to stun or kill their prey. The chief tells
Reggie that blood is supposed to stay in the body unless you are sick or
dead.
Stan Weston is not sure what to do at this point. Take my blood Mr.
Weston, Reggie says. I dont know about that, Stan looks at the chief.
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Come on its safe right, plus youve done it before, this is the only way my
father will agree to this, Reggie insists. Stan Weston stares in silence at the
six foot two, dark skinned man. Well.ok, you explain it to him, Stan says
taking a deep breath. The chief agrees but wants to watch. Stan is so
nervous he breaks out in a sweat, as he pulls the needle out of his bag. The
chief of the tribe stood above him with a machete waiting for something to
go wrong, if it did they would all be killed, and eaten. Stan Westons hands
start to tremble as he brings the needle close to Reggies arm, Ok its going
to sting, Stan says. The whole tribe is frightened at first as Reggie flinches
from the needle stick, but watch in amazement as the needle draws blood
from Reggie, and hes alive. Paul and Jim breathe a sigh of relief. Stans
experiments require large amounts of the New Guineas blood, so he needs a
lot of samples. Once the natives realized that everything was safe the whole
tribe wanted to give blood, now that the doctor has more than enough blood
for the project.
Paul is also a bright young man; he is working on his doctorate
degree and has helped his father with this project from the beginning. Last
summer Paul volunteered at the local zoo, one day while he was feeding the
monkeys one bit him on the finger. Stan panicked quickly running test for
rabies and other diseases; Paul took the painful rabies shots and was ok. This
is when father and son came up with the idea for combining animal and
human blood to make a virus.

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Since the doctor has more than enough blood, he will not have to
return to the New Guinea village, they start gathering up their samples and
equipment for the trip home. Stan sees Reggie talking to his father and then
starts to cry walking away to be alone. Whats wrong, Stan asks. Reggie
stares at him through tear filled eyes, My mother is dying I think it might be
cancer. Oh God no..what do you want me to do, Stan asks. You need to
finish your project; I am going to stay here and help my people. Do you think
the cannibalism could be causing cancer in my village, Reggie asks. You
know there are many things that cause cancer, but from all of our research it
certainly looks that way, Stan puts his arm around him. As soon as I get
back Ill send you more food and medical supplies, Stan hugs him they both
fight back tears; he has learned a lot from being around Reggie, the main
thing Stan has learned is that love has no color. Stan Weston, Paul and Jim
Atkins gather their equipment along with the blood samples loading them
back into the canoes. Its an emotional time for Stan and Reggie both men
shake hands and hug several times. You know Ill be back, Stan whispers in
Reggies ear as they hug for the last time. The two canoes make their way
down river now to a spot where a plane will pick up Stans group. The trip to
New Guinea was quite an experience but Stan got what he came for blood
samples, now he can finish the project.
Once back in Ohio Stan goes right to work, when he got his doctorate
degree Stan moved to Dublin, in a very large mansion, he has come a long
way since living in the old house in Portsmouth. Arent you going to at least
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wait until tomorrow, lets go to dinner I want something good to eat, Paul
says. That sounds good bring me something back, Stan gives him fifty
dollars. Paul knows once his father sets his mind to something there is no
changing it. Even though Stan loves to eat he is a tall thin man, he looks
more like an athlete than a doctor. Stan played a little basketball in high
school but was not very coordinated, so he sat on the bench. Paul is tall just
like his father, he played basketball in high school and college and was even
offered a scholarship, but Paul wanted to spend all of his time studying.
Stan was always interested in chemistry, when he was in grade
school he cooked up several experiments that had disastrous results. Once
he built a small rocket that got out of control and crashed through three
houses before landing into the neighbors garage setting it on fire. Stan has
always been pretty much a nerd, while his friends were dating and enjoying
college he was studying. However Stans hard work paid off he graduated
with honors and received his doctorate degree from Ohio State University.
Right out of college he started working for a research company called Bio
Tech and has been there for ten years, and now at the age of thirty two, Stan
studies viruses from all over the world, he has developed a way to change
how and when they spread. He knows when a virus takes over a cell in the
human body it releases genetic information to replicate itself. Stan has found
a way to add to this information causing the virus to do different things in the
body, even changing some DNA signals. Today Stan is considered one of the
top doctors particularly in DNA research and has recently been contracted by
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the military to come up with a chemical weapon that wont destroy cities and
be undetectable. The doctor has taken the blood of the cannibals and
combined it with some of most vicious men he could find. Stan visited death
row murderers telling them their blood is needed for an experiment, most
were glad to cooperate. Weston kept experimenting with the DNA of both
subjects the cannibals and murders to create a virus that will cause anyone
affected by it to become uncontrollably vicious stopping at nothing to feed
on human flesh. On June 22, 2011 the top secret chemical weapon was
created, and given the code name The Feeding Virus.
The first test was done in a controlled lavatory environment at the
Bio Tech Cooperation where twelve monkeys are put in a zoo-like section
completely sealed so no gas would escape. Most monkeys are usually very
social, getting alone with everyone in their colony. At 12:00 noon on June 23,
2011, the Feeding Virus was pumped into the monkeys section. Doctor
Weston and his colleagues watch as the minutes tick off a clock in the
lavatory. Finally after fifteen minutes the monkeys start to react to the virus,
snarling and making quick swipes at each other with their claws. The
monkeys once seemly peaceful faces are full of rage their large teeth
threaten anyone that comes near. After twenty minutes of exposure the first
blood is drawn, and the monkeys go into a frenzy taking large bites out of
each other. The weakest of the group go first being eaten up in a matter of
minutes, until there are only parts of the monkeys left. Doctor Westons

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Feeding, virus is a complete success, is given the number 396 and labeled
top secret.
General Dale Applewood has served in the military for nineteen
years, and received the Silver Star the highest metal for bravery. He has lead
men into battle for years all over the Middle East, but he truly hates to see
young boys die needlessly, when we have the technology at our disposal to
change things. Dales own son was killed in Afghanistan last year, and after
years of suggesting the Secretary of Defense finally approved for the general
to work with Doctor Weston, to further test the feeding virus on humans.
General Applewood and Doctor Weston searched for months until they find a
very small island in the South Pacific with the population of less than one
hundred. This little piece of land is set out in the ocean miles from any
populated area. The people of this island have been peaceful for centuries so
this will be a true test to see if the virus works, and changes these mildmannered people in any way. A cylinder about twenty feet long is loaded
inside the shell of a bomb that is set to explode fifty feet from the ground.
The virus is a little heavier than air so it will float to the surface just like
Doctor Weston planned.
On July 4, 2011 the chemical weapon known as the Feeding Virus,
is being carefully loaded onto a drone plane in Okinawa. This plane is smaller
in comparison to regular aircraft but it is still the size of an average living
room. The cylinder is mounted to the bottom of the desert green and gray
colored plane. Just like any other aircraft this plane has to go through pre16

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flight checks before it can take off. General Applewood and some of the
Defense Department cabinet have flown here to see firsthand what the
weapon can do; Doctor Weston is here along with his son Paul. The young
man was under the impression that their work was just experimental, and
not to be used on humans. Dad youre not really going to let this virus be
released on those innocent people are you, Paul whispers. Come on son
that what this is all about, now just be quiet and watch, his father says
trying to keep his voice down.
The drone plane is launched early in the morning under the cover of
darkness. Now Doctor Weston and the Defense Department cabinet wait to
see what happens. Its just another day to the people of the small island;
they are washing clothes in a nearby river, and cooking food on small camp
fires, and some of the teenagers are diving for pearls. By the time the drone
plane gets to the island its daylight. All the natives can hear is the quiet
hum of the air- jets and a loud explosion in the air above them. A huge white
cloud slowly disperses and the natives are not sure what just happened, they
are just standing around.
Doctor Weston if you had us fly all the way out here for nothing, its
not going to look good for your funding, Harry Gibson head of the Joint
Chiefs says. Just give it a few minutes, Doctor Weston is hoping the virus
works; he has spent years developing it. The headraces start first and all the
natives hold their heads and scream mumbling something in their native
language. After twenty minutes they begin coughing uncontrollably; next the
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natives one by one fall to their knees, and the change begins. The cameras
on board the drone plane focus in on every detail, one mans face begins to
change, his jaw stretches and his upper teeth enlarge protruding way past
his lips, and his eyes turn jet black. Next the mans lower teeth enlarge until
he looks a lot like a wild animal. There are some dogs and cats on this island,
they go first, once blood is drawn the humans go into a frenzy ripping the K9s apart, the poor animals let out a few yelps but are quickly silenced and
their flesh and organs devoured.
One hour has passed the smell of fresh blood from the animals is all
over the ground, and the humans are the only food source left. At first the
natives just snarl at each other showing their intimidating teeth. All it takes
in one scratch, once first blood is drawn the native behave just like vicious
animals taking large bites of flesh from each other. Not only are the looser of
these fights killed, they are eaten everything except a few small parts and
the bones, even the children are killed, or killing others. As the clock moves
to the two hours of exposer there are only two natives left and they fight
until there are only two severely damaged bodies remains.
Paul, Doctor Westons son burst into tears and runs out of the room.
Well doctor it looks like your weapon is a complete success, General
Applewood pats him on the back. Great job Doctor Weston, it looks like your
funding will continue, Harry Gibson gives him a firm handshake. As all the
men make their way down a hallway to luncheon prepared for them General
Applewood asks Stan in a whisper, What did you do to finally get the virus
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to work? I added some wolfs blood to the others, thats what did it. Stan
Weston does not look happy. Whats wrong you look like youve lost your
best friend, the general says. Stan looks at his son Paul who now wont
speak to him; hes sitting on the other side of the room. Maybe I have; I just
didnt expect the virus to be so violent, Stan looks at the general. Ah come
on cheer up, you got your funding, plus youll be famous soon, the general
says walking away.
From August 2011 until September the Defense Department debates
about sending the footage of The Feeding Virus, to the NATO convention
which meets on October. After several votes and recounts they decide to
send the footage hoping that NATO will see what a breakthrough this weapon
is. This year the NATO convention has two new partners, Iraq and Pakistan,
so the officials are hoping everything is peaceful. The convention is being
held in New York City and security is very tight, the NTPD, and the Sheriffs
Department are there. The meeting starts at exactly seven oclock in the
morning and by noon General Applewood gets up to say a few words about
the feeding project.
For decades researchers have been trying to develop a weapon that
can conquer a country with firing a shot or exploding one bomb. Ive been in
many wars and even lost my son to war, so I know what a devastating effect
it has when a loved one is lost. After several years of research, on June 22,
2011 we have developed such a weapon, its code name is, The Feeding,
and in a moment youll see why. Just think no more countless numbers of
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troops losing their lives fighting, just release this weapon and.well youll
see, General Applewood is excited as a child on Christmas, he motions for
the footage to start. Everyone in the large convention center sit silently
watching the natives go through the changes brought on by the airborne
virus. Once they see the children being eaten up, several officials stand up
and order the footage stopped. General Applewood I have to say I am very
disturbed by this, and we want this weapon banned from all usage, the
leader of the convention says.
Ladies and gentlemen may I have your attention please, Doctor
Weston gets up to say a few words and is tapping on the microphone to get
everyone to quiet down. The crowd slowly settles down, Most of the
countries represented here have developed weapons of mass destruction.
These atomic and nuclear weapons have the power once released, to melt a
persons skin right off their body, so what makes this any different than the
Feeding Virus. Thats just like the United States sitting here talking peace
and behind our backs developing weapons like this, the two men from Iraq
and Pakistan yell. General Applewood and Doctor Weston, the United States
cannot use this weapon in any war or other confrontation, and we
recommend that is be destroyed, the convention leader says.
As Doctor Weston and General Applewood leave the convention both
men are very disappointed, but the general feels like this a major setback in
his career. Dale Applewood had planned to run for public office probably the
presidency, and use the feeding weapon as part of his campaign. Dale has
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been successful in most everything he has attempted in life, so this is a
major setback; this is a big blow to his ego. Hey Stan, I guess your relived,
Dale says patting him on the back. They both get in a taxi and ride the
airport. What do you mean, I am relieved. Come on Stan Ive been around
all types of men my whole career and I am really good judge of character. I
could tell by the reaction to the footage you really didnt want the weapon
used, Dale explains. Well I guess youre probably right; I didnt expect the
weapon to be so violent, Stan Weston takes a shy of relief. Dale looks at him
with a sly grin, I am sure you developed an antidote. Yes, but thats not
necessary now, the weapon is going to be destroyed, Stan gives him a long
stare. Lets hope not, Dale lights a cigar and sort of laughs. Stan does not
know it but Dale has a plan to get revenge, and show what an innovative
weapon the Feeding Virus is. Dale Applewood has the anti-dose he had his
technicians duplicate it before the virus was sent to be destroyed.

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CHAPTER TWO
By November 1, 2011 the feeding weapon is ordered to stop
development and be transported to Anniston Alabama for disposal. The
weapon is sent to Langley Air Force Base to be prepared for the flight. The
two pilots picked for this mission Captain Jeff Peterson pilot, and Captain Sam
Taylor co-pilot. These two men have been flying together in Iraq, and
Afghanistan, theyre the best C-5A pilots the Air Force has. Doctor Weston
encouraged the military to use the safest plane because of the dangerous
cargo; he does not want any mistakes. The Feeding Virus is placed in two
nine foot long, six inch wide metal containers and sealed. Next these two
containers are carefully placed in a twenty foot long container that looks
something similar to a bomb. Foam is sprayed into a wooden crate and the
dangerous weapon is slowly lowered inside before the foam gets hard,
Doctor Weston oversees the whole thing.
About one hundred yards away in another hanger General Applewood
is overseeing the preparation of the C-5A plane that will be carrying the virus
to Alabama. While they are busy working the general walks over to one of
the flight crew and puts his arm around his shoulder. They walk into a small
spare parts room out of the sight of everyone else, General Applewood hands

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the young man a check for five thousand dollars, with a small box, they
shake hands and the general leaves.
Its December eleventh a cold morning at the Langley Air Base, snow
flurries have started, and Jeff shows up first to start his preflight check list,
hes always been a careful pilot. Sam Taylor has been in the Air Force for
sixteen years, his wife Helen and their two sons William and Walter have
gotten used to their father leaving for long periods of time. I should be back
in a couple of days; I am not sure what we are carrying but we are going to
Alabama, Sam kisses his wife and hugs the kids.
Hello partner, Sam says climbing up into the cabin. Hey Sam
hows the wife and kids, Jeff stops long enough to shake his hand. So what
are we baby-sitting all the way to Alabama Sam asks as he climbs into the
co-pilots seat. All I know its some kind of chemical weapon and it carries
the highest priority, Jeff continues to check his pre-flight list. Once the
ground crew finishes fueling they give Jeff the thumbs up towards his
window, he double checks the gages to verify. Were all gassed up and
ready to go, check the weather and make sure there are no surprises. Jeff
starts to call for clearance, This is Flight 176 Victor, Tango, Charlie,
requesting a taxi clearance. Roger Flight 176 Victor, Tango, Charlie you are
cleared on runway four, thats runway four, have a safe trip, the control
tower says.
Where are we going to land this big baby, Sam asks as the big
plane picks up speed going down the runway. Were going to land in
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Birmingham because the airport in Anniston is not large enough. Well it
looks like the weather is cooperating, no storms in the area, Sam double
checks his radar. He is still curious about what they are carrying, Are we
supposed to check on this mysterious cargo to make sure its ok? The door
is sealed we cant open it. Thats a very dangerous chemical weapon, I dont
think they want us near it, Jeff explains. Man it must be bad, the door is
sealed. I dont think we have ever carried anything we couldnt check on,
Sam keeps looking in the small window made into the door that opens to the
cargo bay. Just leave that thing alone, well be in Alabama soon and then
you can watch them unload it, Jeff frowns at him.
It takes approximately one hour and nineteen minutes to fly from
Langley, Virginia to Birmingham, Alabama; everything goes good for the first
forty minutes. Speaking of kids do you know what Walter did the other
night, Sam says. I dont know, what did he do, Jeff has never wanted
children. Walter walked in while Helen and I were having sex. Jeffs whole
expression changes, Oh man that got to be embarrassing. I was trying to
finish, but Helen pushed me off and grabbed her clothes. While we were
tucking Walter into bed he asks me, What were you doing to mommy?
We were both dumbfounded, finally I said, Mommy had a cramp in her leg
and I was trying to get it out, Sam and Jeff burst into a big laugh. All of a
sudden Jeff notices a lot of extra play in the tail of the plane. Hey Sam can
you check the computers, I am getting something weird in the tail section.
Sam checks the main computer that controls that part of the plane,
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everything looks normal. Ok Jeff everything checks out, I dont see any
problems. Alright but keep an eye on it just in case, Jeff begins to worry
especially with the chemical weapon on board. He has flown in Desert Storm
and other conflicts where cannons are firing at his plane from the ground,
but Jeff has never carried a chemical weapon.
About ten minutes later Jeff notices the flaps also giving extra play,
the big plane tips from side to side for a few seconds and returns to normal.
Something is wrong, Jeff says. Suddenly the computer for the tail section
and the flaps goes completely out; Jeff struggles with the controls to keep
the big plane in the air. The malfunctioning jet pitches to the right, then to
the left, and starts falling. Quick get over here and help me, Jeff shouts.
Sam jumps in the co-pilot seat, and they both pull with everything theyve
got, finally the jet levels off. Just when Jeff and Sam think things might be
ok, the number four engine blows. Fire in number four, Jeff shouts. Ive got
it, Sam pushes a button and the fire goes out.
I need for you to start the emergency help call, Jeff says trying to
hide the nervousness in his voice. Sam checks the radar to see where they
are and calls the Charlotte North Carolina tower. Charlotte tower this is
Flight 176 Victor, Tango, Charlie requesting emergency transmission come
back. We have you Flight 176, whats your status. Were coming in hot and
heavy Charlotte; we have little control of the plane, our number four engine
is gone, plus we have a TS package on board.

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Bill Williamson has been an air traffic controller for seventeen years
and helped to avert three major accidents while at the Charlotte airport. If I
remember from my military days TS means Top Secret. I need one of you to
call Langley and find out what 176 is carrying, Bill says to one of the men
sitting beside him. He sounds the alarm for the emergency ground crews to
be standing by. Ok we receive you Flight 176, come to heading two, five,
zero and look for runway five, do you copy, Bill says. Yes we copy runway
five, Sam responds. All of a sudden the big cargo plane dips to the right and
starts dropping. I am not going to be able to hold it, Jeff looks at his partner
as fear explodes on his face. There is a small door directly behind your seat,
it has all the emergency equipment in it along with parachutes, put one of
them and get ready to jump. What about you? Sam asks. We dont have
time to debate this, one of us has to live to tell what happened, Jeff still
struggles with the controls. We lost one of our computers and the number
four engine, what else happened, Sam is confused. I think we were
sabotaged. You know we have flow many of these babies and Ive never had
a main computer to go like that; no go before its too late, Jeff shouts above
the noise of all the warning buzzers.
Reluctantly Sam opens the small door in the back of the cabin and
inside is all sorts of equipment, ropes, wrenches, shovels, picks, floatation
devices, and parachutes. He puts one of them on and takes another for Jeff.
Alright I am ready, Sam sticks his head back in the cabin handing Jeff the
other parachute. Both men see they are quickly approaching the ground. If
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you dont jump now we both will die, Jeff says bluntly. Sam stares at him for
a moment, they have been friends for twelve years, and its hard to say
good-bye. May God be with you, Sam shakes Jeffs hand tightly, closes and
locks the cabin door. He has to pull very hard on the exterior door to get it to
release. A big gush of wind rushes inside the small space almost pushing
Sam out of the door, he holds on to the sides and looks down.
The crippled jet is now spinning like a top; Sam knows this type of
jump is very dangerous. He could be hit by one of the spinning wings, or be
sucked into one of the engines, but this is their only shot. Sam takes a deep
breath.and jumps. The wings on this huge plane are rotating like the blades
on a blender and one of them just misses Sam as he passes by. He is so close
to the ground Sam has to pull his parachute immediately, but the spinning
wings create a crosswind which causes his chute to go side-ways. Now as
Sam is rocking back and forth as he falls, he is completely out of control of
the parachute and hits some tall trees knocking him unconscious.
Jeff is alone in the cabin of the plane still struggling with the controls,
all the warning buzzers and lights are going off, and he realizes its
impossible to save the planes precious cargo, so he tries to get out. Jeff
jumps up and attempting to run to the small door, but the plane tips
sideways throwing him against the side of the cabin knocking Jeff
unconscious. Flight 176, flight 176, this is Charlotte tower whats your
status; youre getting too low pull up now, Bill Williamson shouts.

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Its almost noon on December 11, some of the residents that live
near the Rock Hill Forest look up to see the huge cargo crash through the
trees and explode into flames. With all the shifting the plane has done the
crate with the virus slid back and forth ramming against the sides of the
cargo bay and loosening the heavy chains that held it down. The crate
explodes into several pieces and hazardous container is thrown from the
plane on impact, and Jeff is killed instantly. The long gray and white container
is punctured and the virus is escaping. Bill Williamson immediately calls
Langley Air Force Base to tell them of the possible crash. In less than an hour
the officials call Fort Bragg, helicopters and ground troops are quickly sent to
Rock Hill South Carolina.
The troops at Fort Bragg have done many search and rescue missions
before, they first start searching in the area of flight 176 last transmission.
With the helicopters in the air and troops on the ground they make one mile
circles moving east to west. The search begins at six oclock in the morning,
the ground troops are advised to ware chemical suits, and by noon they find
the wreckage. Flight 176 is scattered all over several hill sides, but there is
no sign of the container with the virus.
6 Hours after the crash more ground troops are sent from Fort Bragg
to Rock Hill to help in the search of the container and to secure the area from
all the curious residents. I am sorry folks but this road is closed, one of the
soldiers says to group of sight-seers. But why is the forest closed we come
here all the time, one of them asks. We have a downed plane that may
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have some harmful chemicals on it. The metal container was thrown from
the aircraft during the explosion, and now lays in gully with white smoke
pouring out of it.
Flight 176 crashed just outside a small town called Rock Hill South
Carolina, it is in the northern part of the state near the Catawba River and
Rock Hill forest. A group of about twenty men dressed in hazardous chemical
suits search through the wreckage of the large cargo plane looking for the
container with the feeding virus. One of the men is carrying a device called a
sniffer, which can smell the air within a given area to detect any chemicals.
By two o clock in the morning the soldiers are exhausted, they have
worked all day and part of the night, but they still havent found the
container with the deadly chemical weapon. Many of the soldiers want to
stop but their orders are to find that container, so they push on. Sergeant
Dan Rivers is making sweeps in a heavily wooded area when he hears
strange sounds coming from nearby. Dan takes slow careful steps hoping not
to walk up on a bear or something. He stops listens, it sounds like someone
moaning; now Dan thinks it might be teenagers out in the woods having sex.
Dan moves closer to sound stops and happens to look up. There hanging in
the top of a tall tree is Sam Taylor who is barely conscious; Dan grabs his
radio and calls for help.
18 hours after the crash Sam Taylor wakes up in the Piedmont
Hospital in Rock Hill South Carolina. Where am I, Sam asks the nurse who
is standing outside his room talking to him on a mike. Youre in the hospital
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sir, youre plane crashed. The womans voice sounds like its in a tunnel.
Sam sits up in the bed and focuses to see hes in an isolated room; all the
walls are made of glass. What am I doing here? Sam yells. Do you
remember anything about your plane or the crash, the nurse tries to calm
him down. Sam looks at her, Oh yes there was some type of chemical
weapon on board, Sam struggles to get out of bed. Wheres my friend
Jeff? I am sorry sir, but you were the only one brought in. Alright, tell me
why I am in isolation, Sam demands. I really cant answer that question,
but someone will be here to talk to you soon.
24 hours after the crash, Doctor Stan Weston arrives in Rock Hill; as
soon as he gets off the plane Stan hails a taxi and heads for the hospital.
Just set my bags by the desk, Stan pays the driver and gives him a tip as
he walks in. My name is Doctor Stan Weston, I need to speak to the person
in charge of holding Sam Taylor. The nurse sitting behind the desk checks
the computer and says, Right this way doctor, Colonel Mathews is expecting
you, the nurse leads Stan through several hallways which all look alike. Stan
glances at the nurses well shaped body as they silently walk along. Finally
they reach a section that has all glass walls for each private room. Are all of
these people in isolation, he asks. Yes, they are all here for different
reasons, some have AIDs or another infectious disease, and a few have been
exposed to toxic chemical they can spread, so they have to be separated
from the public. They walk up to a man who looks to be in his forties
dressed in a military uniform.
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Welcome doctor; I am so glad to finally meet you, Ive heard all
about your work, the colonel extends his hand. I am Colonel Mike Mathews;
I just flew in from Fort Brag. I am flattered, but we need to question Sam
Taylor and find out where the container is; have you found it yet? Doctor
Weston asks getting right to business. No sir, but our men are working
around the clock, it will turn up soon, Colonel seems sure of himself. Stan
Weston has a worried look on his face; he knows the Feeding virus can
spread quickly once released into the air.
When the two men get to Sam Taylors section he quickly stands up.
Are you coming to let me out of here? No, not yet but we need to know
what happened to the container that was on board your plane? the colonel
says in a demanding voice. Sam looks at him and sees he has a higher rank.
Sir the last time I seen the container it was still on the plane, we lost control
of the aircraft and the number four engine went out. At this point Jeff told me
to jump while there was still time, that was the last I saw of the plane or the
container, Sam yells through the glass wall, his voice projecting his
frustration. Stan Weston looks at Sam, What happened to your pilot? Jeff
Peterson was killed in the crash, his remains were found in the wreckage; I
am sorry son. Colonel Mathews explains. Was their plane hit by any
missiles? Stan asks. No, not as far as I could tell but, Jeff thought the plane
was sabotaged, because we lost control of it so fast, Sam says pointing at
them. What did he mean sabotage, Doctor Weston asks but Colonel
Mathews gets a call. Excuse me, Yes this is Colonel Mathews.yes hes
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right here, yes I remember and I will take care of it. Doctor Weston begins to
look impatient so the colonel quickly ends his call. Thats all for now, we
will get with you later, the colonel says as they walk away. Hey when are
you going to let me out of here, has anyone told my family where I am, Sam
yells. I guess I should notify his wife, the colonel starts to make a call. Not
yet, we need to make sure Sam was not affected by the virus, Doctor
Weston says. The colonel frowns, Maybe we taking this a little over-board
dont you think doctor? the doctor just glares at him, Whats this about the
plane being sabotaged? Oh Ive got someone looking into that, Colonel
Mathews forces a smile.
Doctor Weston and the colonel walk toward the front lobby of the
hospital. Look colonel, I am not sure if you are aware of potential of this
chemical weapon. Yes doctor, I was briefed on the weapon before I left Fort
Brag. Stan Weston just smiles and says, Ok well see. Have you heard any
new about the container? No that was the sergeant calling me, they
havent found it yet. If that chemical virus gets out into the population, this
country is going to have a huge problem, the virus will spread faster than we
could contain it Weston says. Like I said we are taking every precaution sir;
why dont you me give you a ride back to Charlotte doc. Oh no, I can in a
taxi plus I am staying here close to Sam to see if he has a reaction to the
virus, the older man sits down in one of the lobby chairs; Stan has been
having trouble with his leg. Do you think that co-pilot Sam Taylor is telling
the truth? We can only believe what he said; Sam was unconscious when
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we found him. Colonel Mathews explains. At this point I think we should
notify the surrounding cities so they will be on alert. No doctor we dont
want to cause a panic, let wait until the container is found.
36 hours after the crash in the small town of Rock Hill South Carolina
things continue as normal. The Heart family has been living here for eight
years, they moved from rat race of New York to a slower paced town for their
children. Rod Heart swore he would change once they moved here, but he
cant stop chasing women, Jean his wife has already caught him once
cheating, and he has given her some type of sexually transmitted disease.
They have been fighting for months, but last night Jean has had enough, she
stayed with her parents, who live on the other side of Rock Hill Forest. After
spending all night and most of the morning talking to Mr. and Mrs. Harris,
which is Jeans maiden name, she has made up her mind; Jean is going to ask
for a divorce. While driving back to town Jean tries to call Rod, but does not
get an answer.
As soon as the young woman walks in her house she starts to cough,
and a sharp piercing pain runs through her head; Jean lies across the bed
and falls to sleep. Two hours later Rod comes home from work and wants to
have a little sex before dinner. He is a carpenter and while working on a roof
a shape piece of metal cut his hand, he just slapped a Band-Aid on it not
giving it a second thought, but the wound is still bleeding a little. Rod begins
kissing his wife behind the ear which is her weak spot. Jean doesnt want to,
but she submits just for that moment she wants him. Jean begins to enjoy
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the feeling it been months since she let Rod touch her, but all of a sudden
she starts screaming not from the pain of having sex, her whole face hurts
and the womans upper and lower teeth begin to get larger. Rod is so into
having sex he does not notice at first. When the young man opens his eyes
he is staring down at what looks like a wolf. Rod tries to scream but Jeans
powerful teeth bite right through his throat making screaming impossible.
Blood sprays all over them and Jean loves it, the smell of fresh human blood
excites her, so she begins ripping Rods body open to eat his internal organs.
Whatever caused Jean to lose it overloaded her system; she passes out on
the floor of her bedroom in a pool of blood.
Just up the highway leading into this sleepy little town of Rock Hill a
dead possum lies in the road, it was hit by a car. Ravens have started to eat
the carcass, but a hitch-hiker walking by shoes the birds away picks up the
bloody carcass and takes a bite. The taste is so good to him the man
continues to eat everything except the bones. His eyes are mid-night black,
his teeth and fingernails are abnormally long. Something is spreading
through the town of Rock Hill but no one knows what it is or where it came
from.
48 hours after the crash Colonel Mike Mathews has just gotten home
for the night, its about three in the morning when he receives a phone call
from the search team. Ok what do you have, Mike sounds tired. Sir, we
found the container.but it fell in the Rock Hill South Carolina Forest. Ok
good work, but was the container leaking, Mike asks. Yes sir, there was a
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white smoke coming from it. Alright thank you sergeant, Ill be in touch.
Mike Mathews calls Doctor Weston. Yes, colonel, he says in a broken raspy
voice. Weve found the container and it is leaking. Oh my God, where are
you? the doctor asks. I am at Fort Brag, Colonel Mathews is up now and
gets a cup of coffee. We need to check on Sam and figure our next move.
Give me about an hour and Ill be there, Mike begins to get dressed. His
wife already knows its something serious, he has not told her about the
virus, Mike does not want to frighten her, she kisses him and back out the
door he goes.
Stan Westons hotel is only ten minutes from the hospital so he has
time to shower and get his cup of coffee. Doctor Weston cant help but worry
what this virus will do to the people of Rock Hill, he takes a taxi to the
hospital; as soon as he gets there Stan rushes up to check on Sam, to see if
hes had a reaction. To his surprise Sam Taylor he is normal sitting his bed as
if he expected him. How is he, Colonel Mathews asks walking up and
touching the doctor on the shoulder. He looks normal for now; we need to
talk. Stan Weston is really nervous now. Come on down the hall, Ive
arranged to have a private room, the colonel leads Stan down a short
hallway to room 312. The room is set up just like a hotel without the bed.
Ok, have you called for an evacuation yet, Doctor Weston asks as
they walk in. We cant just start an evacuation, I have to go through the
proper channels. The first thing I have to do is call Mayor Blackman, Colonel
Mathews frown at him. Ok but while you are going through these channels
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people are going to die, and their blood is going to be on your hands,
Weston shouts. The colonel sort of ignores the Doctor while he calls the
mayor.
Well, hello Mike how is things at Fort Brag? Mayor Blackman weve
got a problem, a military plane carrying a chemical weapon crashed right
outside of Rock Hill in the forest. My men have spotted the container that the
weapon was in and it is leaking, we need to start evacuations now, the
colonel explains. Now wait just a minute, we cant start a panic, is it
confirmed that the chemical is dangerous, Mayor Blackman was sitting
down, but he gets up and starts pacing, puffing on a large cigar. Ok mayor
the doctor that invented the weapon is right here, Ill let you talk to him,
Colonel Mathews hands the phone to Stan Weston. Yes, this is Doctor
Weston.yes this chemical is very dangerous, with some side effects to
hideous to mention. In about two weeks your whole town will be affected.
Two weeks, the Thanksgiving Holiday is next week, and the Friday after is
the biggest shopping day of the year. We have all sorts of things planned,
even an air show. I think two weeks is long enough for you to figure out a
solution to this problem; you keep me posted Ive got to go bye, the mayor
hangs up. Well that was a big waste of time, so what do we do now doctor,
Colonel Mathews asks. The first thing we need to do is pray for a miracle
that we can stop this virus before it spreads, Doctor is standing at the
window of the room looking out over the quiet town of Rock Hill. If we dont
do something fast this is going to get ugly.
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This sleepy little town is not much different than the thousands of
others across the country. Its economy depends on the textiles and plastic
mills that are located nearby, when their business are good the town
flourishes and people move in from different areas like Marcus Green and his
family who moved to Rock Hill from California like most, looking for a slower
life style.
During this time in and around Los Angles California where Marcus
lived gangs was a way of life unless you could live in an exclusive high
income neighborhood. Marcus was offered a spot in a local gang, but he
turned it down, this insulted the gang leader so he had his young thugs jump
Marcus after school one day. They broke his jaw and one of his arms. Harvey
Green his father was livid; he grabbed his shotgun and started out for
revenge. Thats when Sue his wife called her sister in Rock Hill. There was an
opening in the plastic mill so the Greens moved to Rock Hill South Carolina.
Marcus now attends Rock Hill High School where hes a straight a
student, but unfortunately since he is not good in any sports this labels him a
nerd, which makes him a prime target for guys like Keith Fleming, star
quarterback for the football team. Marcus is seventeen years old now and
like most kids hes a few pounds overweight for his height and age. Hes a
nice looking kid, mild mannered, and very bright. Marcus tried out for the
football team, but the other guys were much slimmer, stronger and faster.
He would hate to take showers with the team because the guys always made

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fun of his weight, so after being humiliated for the last time Marcus gave up
football.
Its the last day of school before Christmas break Keith has been
harassing Marcus for the whole year and now there is a big crowd around
Marcuss locker, it seems Keith wants to fight, but Marcus wont give in to
him. Principal Dugan comes out to break up the fight, but he gets a phone
call and rushes off. As Marcus starts down the hall he walks right up to Keith
like there is going to fight him, but says, Ah, youre not worth it. This
infuriates Keith, but he cant do anything because Principal Dugan returns to
check on them. I am going to get you Marcus you weird-o. Marcus would
never fight Keith for two reasons, one he wouldnt win, but second he gets
rescued by Susan Winters. She is the most beautiful girl in school and has
been dating Keith for about a year now. She has long blonde hair and deep
blue eyes, and a body to die for. Every time Keith tries to do something to
Marcus Susan stops him. Her people are filthy rich, Mr. Winters is a
successful realtor and Mrs. Winters is a lawyer, but coming from a rich family
Susan has a beautiful personality which is sometimes unusual in rich girls.
All the students are out of school for Christmas break but Mr. Clark
the high school science teacher has been planning a winter field trip for
months, to get the kids out in the woods and introduce them to some winter
plants. It took some finagling but Mr. Clark finally got the school to go along
with the field trip to Rock Hill Forest as long as all the students sign wavers
in case something goes wrong. Any student who goes on this field trip will
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receive extra credit for Mr. Clarks class, so it was not hard to find enough
volunteers. Susan and Marcus are already in science class together, so if
they go on the field trip Marcus is hoping he can get to know her a little
better. However Keith decides to come along at the last minute just to keep
an eye on Susan, he knows all the guys will be trying to hit on her.
60 hours after the plane crash, its six oclock in the morning Mr. Clark
is counting heads and names as the students file onto the Rock Hill High
School bus. Alright we are all adults here so I am counting on you all to be
on your best behavior, Mr. Clark says to a bunch of disinterested faces.
Finally everyone is on board and Mr. Clarks field trip is underway. They enter
the back side of the Rock Hill Forest, Mr. Clark has arranged for them to let in
because that road is usually closed for the holidays. Marcus gets all the way
on the back seat listening to his MP3 player and watching Susan. Keith keeps
a close eye on her and every few minutes the football jock would take his
large arm wrap it around Susans neck and pull her close for a kiss. Susan
doesnt seem to like it, but shes scared to say no to him. Keith has a very
bad temper he has grabbed Susan a couple of times and almost hit her. He is
Rock Hills star quarterback so a lot of what he does is ignored.
The bus ride to the forest is a short one, but some of the students
take advantage of making out while they can. Ok boys and girls the winter
woods are calling us, Mr. Clark says parking the school bus near a hiking
trail. Slowly the teenagers file off the bus not really interested on why they
are there. Alright I want everyone to stay together.no wondering off. Mr.
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Clark gets to the back of the group to make sure nothing improper is going
on. He planned the field trip well, there is a cooler with water and sodas
which he made two of the guys carry. Mr. Clark talks about the different
plants as they hike up and down the hills. After hiking for three hours Mr.
Clarks group comes to a very large flat rock everyone can stand on and see
the forest valley. While the science instructor is explaining about the history
of Rock Hill most of the students are trying to get signals on their cell
phones. Marcus notices something smoking on a ridge not far from them.
Mr. Clark, look someone left a camp fire burning. I dont think thats a
camp fire, the older man strains to see. What do you think it is? Marcus
insists. I dont know Marcus; we just need to leave it alone. Once everyone
gets back on the hiking trail Marcus sneaks off down the ridge to see where
the smoke is coming from. The young mans curiosity drives him right to a
gray container that looks to be twenty feet long; a white gas is seeping out
of it. The container has some writing on it but Marcus just cant make it out,
so he reaches to roll it over. Marcus.get over here right now, Mr. Clark
shouts.
Back at the Piedmont hospital Doctor Weston and Colonel Mathews
are watching Sam Taylor very closely, looking for some type of change.
Maybe the gas didnt get to him, the colonel whispers. Maybe so, but there
is one way to find out.I ll be right back, Doctor Weston catches the
elevator to the basement. A few minutes later the doctor returns with a
corpse on a stretcher. What in the world are you doing doctor? This will be
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GC
a true test to see if Sam has the virus. I placed bags of human blood inside
this corpse. Who is this, the colonel asks. The guy in the morgue said this
is John Doe, they were getting ready to cremate him, Doctor Weston looks
like a kid with a new Christmas toy. He has the nurses open the air-lock to
Sams room and push the body in.
Sam Taylor takes one look at the corpse and starts banging on the
glass, Let me out of here there is nothing wrong with me. Doctor Weston
and the colonel just ignore his request. They both pull up chairs from the
waiting area to sit and see what happens next; the doctor has a stop watch
trying to record how long it takes for the virus to react. Why are you going
through all of this, wasnt this done in the lab when you can up with the
virus? Colonel Mathews asks. Not really the military was pushing to get it
finished; we couldnt do a lot of testing. I guess when you think about it the
concept is ground breaking, to have a weapon that completely wipes-out an
enemy without firing a shot or losing a solider, the colonel watches Sam
who suddenly begins to cough. Sweat begins to pour off of Sams head and
he paces back and forth. Hes getting ready to have a reaction, Doctor
Weston says. Sam goes to the corner of the room and sniffs the air. Sams
upper and lower teeth begin to grow as he screams from the pain. He goes
up to the corpse sniffing it first, and then Sams powerful teeth rip into the
chest. With each bite blood splatters everywhere; Sam begins chewing the
heart, liver, kidneys, and starts on the intestines. Sam stops and looks at

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them his eyes black as coal, then he growls just like an animal. Once he has
devoured the corpse, Sam returns to normal.
Now do you believe we need to evacuate Rock Hill, Weston says.
Wow, every time I see this its unbelievable, Colonel Mathews shakes his
head. This means the virus is going to very hard to spot if people can return
to normal. Its still not enough to get Mayor Blackman to change his mind
about the evacuation. Cant you call someone else, Doctor Weston asks.
Mayor Blackman is a very ruthless man, and he has a lot of connections at
Fort Brag, if I go over his head it could cost me my career, the colonel
explains. So what do we do now, Doctor Weston is not going to give up;
this virus has got to be stopped. Ive got it, Ill order some samples of Sams
blood, and once the CDC is involved maybe the mayor will have to evacuate
the town. Doctor Weston walks over to the nurses station to give them his
request.
After Marcuss little prank Mr. Clark decides to take all the children
back to town. Marcus sits quietly in the very back of the bus looking like
something is wrong with him. The young man begins to cough
uncontrollably, some of the other students slowly move away from him. Mr.
Clark is watching the road so he cant see whats going on. While they are
speeding around a curve one of the buses tires blows, the terrified teacher
has to struggle to keep the bus from flipping over. All the kids hold on for
dear life, as their bus spins in a circle and stops. Is everyone alright, Mr.
Clark shouts. They are shaken and confused about what just happened, but
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everyone seems to be ok. I want all of you to stay on the bus; I am going to
check and see how bad it is, Mr. Clark pushes open the small glass folding
door and slowly walks down the steps.
Right after the forty two year old teacher steps off the bus, Marcus
gets up on his knees on the back seat with sweat pouring off of him, saying
he does not feel well. The coughing starts again, Marcus stops and sniffs the
air. While Mr. Clark is not looking Marcus sneaks off the bus and runs toward
something laying the road. The carcass of a bloody possum lies right behind
the bus; Marcus runs over picks up the possum and takes a bite. Oh my God
Marcus is eating that dead animal, Susan shouts running to the corner of
the bus to throw up.
Mr. Clark has taken the school bus on many field trips, but nothing
like this has ever happen to him before. Hey Keith come and help me.
What can I do, I dont know anything about bus tires. Ah come on quit
complaining, if we work together we can get out the spare tire, so when help
gets here it wont take as long. Mr. Clark waits at the bottom of the steps
until Keith finally comes off the bus. He and Keith find the spare tire bolted
underneath the bus. If you help me I think we can get it off, Mr. Clark says.
Both of them squat down trying to loosen a large fly bolt that holds the big
tire on. Wait a minute I think Ive Keith cuts his hand on the sharp edge
of the bolt, and blood squirts all over Mr. Clark and on the ground. Marcus
stops and sniffs the air; he turns around to see the young mans hand
bleeding. Without hesitation Marcus heads toward the blood. Marcus get
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away from here what are you doing off the.. Marcus turns and growls at
Mr. Clark his long sharp teeth snarling at him just like an animal. The science
teacher quickly backs up as Marcus heads straight for Keith. Now wait a
minute Marcus; I didnt mean all those things I said about you; I was only
joking, Keith pleads. Marcus only has one thing on his mind Keiths bleeding
hand and nothing can stop him.
Before Keith realizes whats going on Marcus takes a large bite out
of his hand, only leaving two fingers, the terrified young man screams from
the pain, blood splashes all over the side of the school bus and Mr. Clarks
shirt. The terrified man screams along with the children on the bus, who is
watching out of the windows. The science teacher is almost in a state of
shock he really does not know what to do, he just stands there. Mr. Clark
help him, the students scream from the bus. Finally the older man gets
himself together enough to try and help Keith, but Marcus snaps at him like a
rabid dog so he backs off. With one powerful swipe Marcus knocks Keith to
the ground, grabs him by the collar and drags him into the woods. Keith
desperately screams for help but everyone is afraid to step off the bus or
they might be next. Many of the girls especially Susan is in tears listing to
Keith cry for help. Mr. Clark and the remaining students look at each other
wondering if this nightmare is for real. It becomes all too real to the science
teacher when he looks down and sees blood all over his shirt. He quickly
takes the shirt off and throws it to the back seat of the bus. The stranded
school bus has to sit for two hours until wrecker comes, and some of the
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students have started to cough, a lot. The sun is starting to go down
everyone on the school bus is frightened even Mr. Clark. What are we going
to do if Marcus or that thing he has become gets hungry again, One of
Keiths buddies shouts. Everyone we have to remain calm the last thing we
want to do is turn on each other, Mr. Clark says. What happened to Marcus
and why did he kill Keith was he getting him back for all the things he did to
him, Susan asks. I dont know the sheriff will have to figure all that out.
Now I want two people every six seats to be on watch to see if Marcus comes
back, Mr. Clark says giving the kid something to keep their minds off of what
just happened.
Mr. Clark finds a flashlight and the kids use the lights from their cell
phone to make the bus a little less threating. The darker it get the more
concerned they all become but finally over two hours later the wrecker
shows up and they all breathe a little easier.

CHAPTER THREE
72 hours after the plane crash finds a mother in Rock Hill is enjoying
her new found time with her five year old daughter, Jasmine. Ann Rollings is
a beautiful woman her high cheek bones and long black hair that reveals her
Brazilian heritage. Ann was able to quit her job at the plastic mill, because
her husband got a promotion on his job, so she gets to speed more time with
her preschooler.
Its a really cold day outside so Ann gets Jasmine to help her make
chocolate chip cookies. Ann has to smile watching her daughter stir the
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cookie batter, it reminds her of some of the same times with her mother, and
Jasmine looks so much like her. Mommy, can I please spend a few minutes
riding my bicycle outside? Jasmines birthday was last week and she has
been dying to try out her new bike. Ann can only smile and say, Ok honey,
but lets wait until the cookies are ready.
Ann reads Jasmine a story about Little Red riding Hood, while the
cookies are baking. Little Red Riding Hood has a grandmother that lives on
the other side of the dark woods, someplace she was never supposed to go.
One evening Red Riding Hoods mother ask her to take a freshly baked pie to
grandmothers house. If you leave now you will have enough time to get
back before dark, her mother says. The little girl puts on her red jacket with
the hood in case it rains. Red Riding Hood did not want to take the long way
to grandmothers so she cuts through the woods where the wolf sees her. She
quickly runs down the small path that has been made from so many people
going the dark wilderness. The wolf gets to grandmothers house first; he
takes her cloths and locks grandmother in a closet. When Red Riding Hood
walks in grandmothers house she says, Grandma what big eyes you have,
she steps in the bedroom and sets down the basket with the pie. The better
to see you with my dear, the wolf grins. Grandma what big teeth you
have, Red Riding Hood is really afraid now. The better to eat you with my
dear, Jasmine shutters and Ann holds her tight. The white timer sitting on
the stove makes a loud ding, and the cookies are ready.

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Jasmine loves the smell of fresh baked cookies it reminds her the
holidays are coming. The young girl grabs a cookie and runs toward the
garage. Wait a minute baby youve got to get your coat. Jasmines eyes
light up when she sees the shiny pink bicycle, Ann and her husband decided
to put training wheels one the bike to reduce the number of falls. The young
girl jumps on her bike and starts to speed down the sidewalk. Not too fast
honey remembers youre still learning, Ann shouts. Ok mommy, Jasmine
says, but there is a nice size rock on the sidewalk and she doesnt see. It
seems like a split second and the new little rider is down on the sidewalk
with a skinned up elbow. Oh Mommy it hurts, Jasmine yells holding up her
bloody arm. For some reason a sharp pain hits Ann in the head, she coughs
several times and then begins sniffing the air. Ann is breathing hard and
sweat is pouring off of her. For some strange reason she is focused on the
fresh blood coming from Jasmines arm. The tremendous pain in Anns head
almost blinds her; she turns around so her daughter cant see, then Anns
upper and lower teeth begin growing and her eyes turn jet black. The scent
of fresh blood has overtaken her now she reaches for Jasmines arm with one
thing in mind. As soon as Ann open her mouth Jasmine sees what her
mother looks like and screams to the top of her lungs. This frightens Ann for
a few minutes, Carol Anns sister lives right next door, she rushes over at the
sound of Jasmine cries. What in the world are you doing sis, Carol says as
she approaches. Oh my God, Carol sees her sisters face, she steps back
not believing Ann looks just like a wolf. Carol picks up Jasmine and runs for
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her house. For a split second Ann realizes her looks has drastically changed
and runs off so none one can see her.
Paul Stevens a middle aged black man has been delivering mail on
Midvale Avenue for nineteen years, and he knows something about every
person at each address. The old lady at the end of the block Mrs. Foster loves
to talk flowers; she works on them almost every day. Mr. Hatcher is a race
enthusiast and can name all the drives and how they are doing. The seventy
year old man spends so must time watching television while his yard is
neglected; two large bushes have all but covered the mailbox by the street.
Paul has threatened not to deliver Mr. Hatchers mail but he knows the
retiree needs his check. When are you going to cut these bushes Mr.
Hatcher, Paul says as he drives up to the mail box. I told you I would get
around to it, the old man says hobbling out to get his mail. Paul just smiles
at him.
Yesterday Paul was racing down the sidewalk in the front of their
house with their teenage son who swore he could beat his forty year old
father racing. Paul had him by a step until he fell right on the concrete
scraping his hand. His wife wanted him to go to the hospital, but Paul just
slapped a bandage on it. Mr. Hatcher, Paul hears a strange sound coming
from the other side of the bushes; it sounds like a dog, so Paul starts to reach
for his pepper spray. Just as he raises the can, Ann Rollings jumps out of the
bushes biting down on Pauls bloody hand, the can of pepper spray falls to
the floor of the small mail truck, and rolls out of his reach. Paul screams as
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blood gushes all over his clothes, he has on his seatbelt so the mailman is
trapped as the powerful teeth and claws rip into him. Just as Ann starts
eating Pauls organs a high school student named Josh and his girlfriend
happened to be driving up the street. Josh slows down to make sure hes
seeing this nightmare clearly. Call 911, Josh yells.
This is 911 emergency how can I help you, Peggy has been a
deputy sheriff for three years now and she is finally starting to get the hang
of it. You wont believe what I just saw. Ok, what did you see? Peggy
realizes they are teenagers. We saw Ann Rollings eating Paul the mail man
like he was a buffet dinner, his intestines and everything, Joshs girlfriend
begins to cry. Josh looks up into his rearview mirror and sees Ann running
toward them, Oh my God shes coming for us. Peggy hears the sound of
squealing tires.
Thirty nine year old, Bobby Smith has been the sheriff in Rock Hill for
five years; he came here after being shot in an attempted bank robbery up in
Charlotte. Something terrible happened that day so Bobby decided to move
to a smaller town. He spent ten years in the military and still keeps his
military haircut and six foot six body in good shape; there is not an ounce of
fat on him. He has enjoyed the slower pace of Rock Hill, but all that is about
to change. Bobby is divorced, he and his wife of six years settled everything
five years ago, right before he moved to Rock Hill, and they didnt have any
children so the separation was easy at first, but Bobby really loved his wife,
but she wanted someone else, now he has to start over.
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Try to get Josh back on the line and find out their location; Ill go
start looking for them, Bobby rushes back to his patrol car. I wonder what
kind of prank these kids have cooked up now, he thinks. There is a sudden
blast from the radio Peggy always talks loud as she says, Josh said that Paul
was on Midvale Avenue. Thats good, but where is he? Josh said he is on
his way home to Elm Street, Peggy responds. Ok tell them to stay there
and call an ambulance to the other address, Bobby turns on his siren and
heads for Midvale Avenue.
When the patrol car pulls up people have surrounded the mail truck
trying to get a look at poor Pauls mangled corpse. Blood is all over the inside
of the small vehicle; Paul has a big chunk missing out of his neck. His
stomach has been ripped open and internal organs removed. Ok people
lets break it up youve seen enough, Bobby says getting out of his car. Mr.
Hatcher comes out with an old sheet to cover the remains. Paul was a nice
young man, why would Ann Rollings do such a thing, Mrs. Foster asks.
Thats what were going to find out. Do you think it had to do something
with drugs? I dont knoweveryone lets move now, Bobby yells.
Over at the local newspaper a young ambitious reporter is becoming
bored with Rock Hill, Roger this place is a dead end, if I dont leave here
soon, Ill never make TV anchor, Jill Davis says. She has been working at the
paper for two years and is hoping for a big story that will put her on the map.
Her and Roger started on the same day and have been friends ever since.

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Ok you two, Ive got something for both of you, theres been a plane
crash on the other side of Rock Hill Forest, Roger I want you to take that. Jill
theres been calls about a woman attacking a mail man, her boss says.
What did she attack him with some cook books, Jill laughs. No, according
to the reports the woman used her teeth, she was eating the guy like a
cannibal. Now thats what I call a story; I am all over it Mr. Southern. Jill
grabs her camera, purse, and runs out the door.
84 hours after the plane crash, Doctor Travis Wilson, who is forty nine
years old, he has just been appointed to the Board of Directors of the
Piedmont Hospital for the many lives he has helped save. Travis has always
wanted to be a doctor like his father who practiced until he passed away last
year. Today Travis is preparing for surgery, he is operating on one of his
favorite patients Joe Bookman, who has been suffering with heart problems
for a two years; Travis is going to put in a pace-maker. Ashley Russell is a
head nurse; she has been assisting Travis in the operating room for five
years. Everything is ready doctor, Ashley says as he walks in. She helps
him with his mask and gloves, Ok lets get started, Travis seems in a good
mood today. All the necessary tools are laid out on a small metal table with a
white cloth on it. Randy the anesthesiologist has given Joe a shot and he is
completely under. Heart-rate and blood pressure is normal doctor, Randy
says.
Just as Doctor Wilson reaches to pick up the scalpel he starts
coughing violently. Are you alright, Ashley asks putting her hand on the
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doctors back. Yes, I am fine, just a tickle or something. Travis picks up the
scalpel to proceed, hes done this procedure thousands of times but suddenly
he cant remember what to do after making the incision. Are you ok doctor,
Ashley asks again. Yeah, I must be coming down with something, Travis
wipes sweat from his forehead. He finishes the incision down Mr. Bookmans
chest and blood starts to ooze out of the cut. Suction, Travis shouts. Its
something about the smell of the fresh blood that seems to excite him.
Doctor Wilson carefully watches as the clear plastic suction tube removes the
blood from the area, he still cant remember what he is supposed to be
doing. Now Travis is just standing in a daze. Do you need the saw doctor?
Ashley says trying to get him to focus. Oh yesthe saw please. The long
handled silver device looks like a power tool used for home repairs, but much
sharper.
Slowly the doctor moves the rotating blade toward the patients
chest, but Travis begins to cough again, with terrible pains in his head and
mouth. He has to grab hold to a nearby table to keep from falling; Travis
struggles to the corner of the room. Do you want me to call a replacement
doctor, Ashley rushes to him. Travis cant answer hes holding his head and
screaming loudly from the pain. Doctor Wilson knows something is
happening to him, but he cant do anything to stop it. Traviss canine teeth,
both upper and lower begin to grow, and his eyes turn a greenish black color,
he is soaking wet from sweat. Let me get you some, Ashley heads for the
sink .when she turns around and sees Travis all she can do is scream, Oh
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my God what happened to you. He tries to grab her but she quickly backs
away, Ashley is now in the corner of the room hoping this is some kind of
nightmare. Randy runs from the room screaming for help.
Ashley cant believe her eyes as she watches Travis bite through the
bones of Mr. Bookmans chest just like a surgical saw. Once the poor mans
internal organs are exposed Travis begins eating them like pieces of steak.
Ashley cant take it; she runs to the nearest sink and throws up. Randy
returns with two security guards that work for the hospital. The two young
men look terrified as they watch Travis finish eating Bookmans insides.
What is its name, they ask Ashley. His name is Doctor Travis Wilson.
Hes a doctor, they both say together. Never mind that, lets see if we can
talk to him, Doug Burns one of the guards suggest. He just started at the
hospital last week working part-time while still going to high school. The
young man is proud of the fact he just begun to shave, but he has several
small cuts on his neck right below his chin that are bleeding, he hasnt quite
got the hang of it. Travis immediately stops eating and sniffs the air. As soon
as Doug takes a step toward him, Travis grabs him biting deep into his throat.
Randy takes off running leaving Ashley alone with the monster. The
deranged man looks at Ashley for a moment remembering how great a nurse
and friend she has been, and then Doctor Wilson runs out the doors of the
operating room down the hall. The people that see Traviss face scream and
jump out of his way. Doctor Travis Wilson runs out of Piedmont Hospital
wearing a bloody white doctors coat and pants.
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As Sheriff Smith is getting statements from the people that saw what
happened to Paul Stevens the mail man, a red SUV pulls up and Bobby
recognizes the tags, Report One, its Jill Davis from the newspaper. Mr.
Hatcher did you see who did this, Jill asks. When I looked out my front
window I saw Mrs. Ann Rollings ripping this poor man to death. Whats
going on sheriff, an angry wife getting revenge Jill says to get Bobby talking.
This was no angry wife, Bobby stops. Jill pulls out her notepad and begins
writing. Thats all youre getting for now until weve had time to
investigate. Suddenly Bobbys radio attached to his shirt goes off, Sheriff
come back please, Peggy sounds irritated. Ive got an emergency call from
the Piedmont Hospital; it seems they have a mad man on the loose. Jill
hears the whole thing, now she has that gleam in her eye. No, you are not
coming with me, Bobby quickly says. Alright, are you going to let me go
with you, or just let me print what I just heard, Jill has a sly smile. Bobby
knows Jill has a tendency to add flavor to her stories so he says, Ok, but no
pictures. Alright, Jill runs to the patrol car.
When Bobby and Jill get to Piedmont Hospital Ashley Russell is sitting
in the back of an ambulance with a blanket over her shoulders, she is about
to go into shock. Hello Ms. Russell I am Sheriff Smith, my I ask you a few
questions. She nods her head and someone gives her a cup of coffee. What
happened in there? Bobby gets straight to the point. Ashley stares at him
for a moment and finally begins to talk in a soft low voice. Ive been working
with Doctor Wilson for five years and I have never seen him act like that.
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What do you think triggered him losing it, Bobby asks. Ashley looks at him
and burst into tears. Jill comes over to comfort her, Why dont you let me
talk to her sheriff, she puts her arm around Ashley. Bobby slowly closes the
ambulance door so they can be alone. Women, he mumbles walking into
the hospital.
The hospital is busy with people, as Sheriff Bobby Smith walks toward
the operating room to see the victims body; two young men are rolling Mr.
Bookmans body out on a stretcher. Stop, he yells to them. Bobbly lifts the
blood stained sheet, Its a little too late for this one sheriff, one of the
young men blurts out, and they both laugh. Hey, dont you ever let me hear
you disrespect a victim like that again or Ill report you to your supervisor,
Bobby is furious. Whats wrong with him, maybe he didnt get his donuts
and coffee this morning, one young man says. Sheriff Smith has seen a lot
of car accidents, but nothing like Mr. Bookmans body, he is missing all of his
internal organs, and his chest looks like a bomb went off inside it.
Bobby goes back to his patrol car to wait for Jill. Forty five minutes
later she finally steps out of the ambulance, and Ashley is taken into the
hospital for treatment. Jill walks toward the patrol car quickly wiping tears
from her face. Ok, what did she say, Bobby is as impatient as ever.
Sometimes I wonder if you have a caring bone in your body Bobby. Jill went
out with him for a while, but they broke up just for this reason, but she still
has feeling for him.

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As you guessed Ashley and Doctor Travis Wilson were close, they
been working together for five years. She said Travis was fine when they
started the operation, but just as he made his incision the doctor began
acting strange, Jill explains. What do you mean acting strange? Well
Ashley said Travis started coughing violently and complaining of a
headache, Jill pulls out her notepad and begins to write. Didnt you write
this down while you were talking to her, Bobby frowns. No, I didnt want
Ashley to feel uncomfortable while we were talking. Coughing doesnt
usually cause someone to rip open a body, Bobby shows Jill the pictures of
Mr. Bookmans body. Jill stares at the picture, suddenly her face changes
color, when her hand goes up to Jills mouth, shes about to throw up. Bobby
shouts, Not in my car. Jill opens the car door and loses it on the ground.
Ashley also said Travis seemed like he was catching the flu or something, he
was really sweating, and coughing. Bobby just sits there thinking, The flu
still wont cause a person to do all of this. Ok, what else did she say?
Ashley said Traviss teeth began to grow two or three times their normal
size. Come on Jill now your stretching it a little. Thats what she said his
upper and lower teeth grew, Jill gives Bobby a hard stare. Bobby shakes his
head. Ok take me back to my car, Jills angry now.
The ride back to Midvale is silent until Jill says, What happened to
Mr. Bookmans chest? The coroner said something or someone ripped it
open, and all of the mans organs are gone, he says. What do you mean
gone.you mean Travis eat them? Thats what it looks like, Bobby pulls
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up to Jills SUV. Look I need a favor from you, He has that look like he want
to ask something but doesnt know how. Oh no, we broke up a long time
ago and I dont do encores, Jill frowns. No, I dont mean sex; I know you
and I dont see eye to eye on a lot of things, but I need you to hold this story
for twenty four hours until I can do some investigating. Ok, twenty four
hours, and not a minute more, Jill gets out and slams Bobbys car door,
which he hates. Thanks for not slamming my door, Bobby shouts as he
pulls off.
96 hours after the crash Doctor Stan Weston inventor of the Feeding
Virus and Colonel Mike Mathews stand looking at Sam Taylor through the
thick glass. When are you going to let me out of here, or at least let me talk
to my wife, Taylor says. Do you think the virus is still affecting him, the
colonel asks. Well there is only one way to find out, Doctor rushes to the
elevator. A few minutes later the doctor returns with another corpse on a
stretcher. Stan has also put bags of blood inside the body. Ok what will this
prove, the colonel blurts out. If Sam still has the virus hell still attack the
corpse; hey I am hungry lets go get dinner, Weston says.
Colonel Mathews and Doctor Weston go to the cafeteria and try to
enjoy a dinner of hospital food, while talking about their lives. The colonel
tells of all his military successes, and Doctor Weston talks about the Feeding
Virus and all the trouble he had developing it. I am still impressed how the
virus can change any person into a killing, feeding machine. If this is
released on any enemy they wouldnt stand a chance against us, the
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colonel has a gleam in his eye. You do realize NATO told us never to use the
Feeding virus; we need to concentrate on how we are going to stop this
terrible weapon, Stan says. I really hate I developed it, you know when my
son found out that this virus was going to be used on humans he stopped
speaking to me; I guess he could see this virus was going to be a problem.
After about ninety minutes Weston says, Lets go check on Sam.
When the two men get back to Sams section the corpse has been
ripped open and emptied out. Sam has returned to normal, the only evidence
that he had a reaction is the blood on his clothes. Oh my God weve got a
bigger problem than I thought, Stan says. What do you mean, the colonel
doesnt follow. The virus was only supposed to live in the host for 2.4 days
and then die off, so it would be untraceable. The Feeding Virus enters a host
just like any other virus, but instead of dying it dominates the host, taking
control and changing the human body. This virus can lie dormant for days
possibly longer, sort of like the chicken-pops virus developing into the
shingles. The thing that makes this virus different from all others its
triggered by blood, Doctor Weston explains.
Sheriff Smith decides to drive back over to the Piedmont hospital
morgue to get some answers from Bill the coroner. Bobby has been working
with Bill for many years; hes a straight forward sort of guy, and very
intelligent. May he can figure out whats going on, Bobby thinks as he gets
on the elevator.

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Well hello sheriff, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit, Bill is
sawing open someones head. I dont know if you have heard, but there has
been some strange things going on around here, Sheriff Smith looks at the
exposed brain of the man lying on the table What do you mean sheriff? I
had reports of a house wife attacking the mail man, eating most of his
internal organs, plus a prominent doctor in your hospital feeds on his
patients organs in front of the operating room staff. I was wondering what
all the commotion was upstairs; I saw people running through the hall but I
didnt look out to see what was going on, Bill looks up at him. Werent you
even a little concerned? Not really, nobody wants to come to the morgue
for anything, Rusty turns off the saw and places it on a small table.
Here you go doc, they told us to bring this one to you, two
paramedics say pushing a stretcher into the room. The sheriff pulls back the
sheet to reveal Mr. Bookmans body. The poor mans internal organs are
gone, but Bobby wants him to see. Bill puts on his special glasses with
magnifiers in them, It looks like some sort of animal attacked this man.
This was no animal, it was Doctor Travis Wilson, Sheriff Smith says. Youve
got to be kidding, not the Travis Wilson I know he wouldnt hurt a fly. Bill is
closely examining the remains. This flesh and bone was torn not cut, these
look like teeth marks. I know this is going to sound weird, but can a virus
cause a person to do something like this, Sheriff Smith asks. There are
viruses that can cause hallucinations which could make a person kill
someone because he or she sees things that arent real. But to do something
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like this, I have to say Ive never seen a virus directly do this. Thanks Bill,
Ill see you later, Sheriff Smith rushes off.
It has been four and one half days since the plane crash; Stan Weston
is out of options, so he calls the CDC in Atlanta Georgia. CDC how can I
help, a present sounding lady says. My name is Doctor Stan Weston, I am
sure you heard about the military plane that crashed in South Carolina a few
days ago. Yes there have been rumors that the plane was carrying some
type of chemical weapon, did you ever find it? the woman asks. Stan
becomes quiet he is surprised at her knowledge of the incident. Well doctor
was the chemical weapon found? she asks again. Yes the chemical weapon
was found but the container was breached, Stan hates to admit it but they
have a problem. Ok let me connect you with our critical recovery team, he
is put on hold.
This is Doctor Allen Bridges, how can I help you? a mans voice
sounds young. Yes, I am Doctor Stan Weston, like I was telling the young
lady a military plane crashed in Rock Hill South Carolina carrying a chemical
weapon, and the chemical has escaped. Alright doctor tell me about this
chemical weapon, Doctor Bridges asks. I am sorry, but this weapon is top
secret, Stan whispers looking around to see if anyone is listening. Well if
there is a danger to the public we need to know, it would be better to tell me
sooner than later. I guess Ill have to fly to Atlanta and show you, if I can
get a flight Ill see you tomorrow, Doctor Weston hangs up and searches for
the airport number in his cell phone.
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It is the fifth night after the plane crash, Sheriff Smith is concerned
about Jill releasing her story and causing a panic, so he decides to call her.
Hello Bob; I know you want something because you havent called me since
we broke up, Jill says. Yeah, I knowbut I was wondering if you might have
dinner with me tonight. What do you want Bob, Jill is starting to get angry.
Are you going to print that story tomorrow? Yes, thats what you said, now
whats the problem. Ok I really need to talk to you, put something on Ill be
there in thirty minutes, Bobby hangs up.
Exactly thirty minutes later a horn blows outside Jills home. She
really doesnt want to go with Bobby because it might bring back some old
feelings for him. They dated seriously for about a year, but Jill could not deal
with Sheriff Bobby Smiths busy seclude, she broke it off five months ago. A
horn blows again; Jill looks out to see Bobby sitting in his personal truck. Oh
so youre off duty tonight, Jill steps up in his truck as he stands there
admiring her beautiful legs. Lets not go there, you know I am sheriff; I am
always on duty, Bobby sighs.
The couple end up at The Outback Steak House restaurant and Jill
seems a little impressed, What we are not going to McDonalds. Very funny
Jill, Bobby frowns. Good evening sir, two in your party, a tall thinly built
man at the door says. Yes, I would like a table in the back, Bobby says as
they follow the man. This will be fine, Bobby pulls the chair out for Jill.
Your waiter will be with you in a few minutes, the man hands them two
menus.
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Ok Bobby, I came all the way over here, so what is this all about, Jill
blurts out first. Alrightits about that story youre going to print about the
attacks. Mayor Blackman wanted me to ask you to hold your story for a few
days, Bobby hopes she believes him. Jill stares at him for a moment.
Suddenly Bobbys cell phone rings, This is Sheriff Smith. Hey sheriff this is
Peggy, the school bus has returned with Mr. Clark and the kids. I think you
need to get over here right now. Jill hears the message and has that look
Bobby knows something is on her mind. Is that the Mr. Clark who took a
bunch of students into the woods? Yes thats him, so whats on your mind,
Bobby asks. I tell you what; Ill hold my story if you give me first shot at that
school bus. Bobby frowns, you always drive a hard bargain.ok lets go.
They get up and quickly rush out of the restaurant, but what about your
meal, the waiter shouts. We will have to do it some other time, Sheriff
Smith shouts.
The yellow bus is partially blood stained on the outside, it has to limp
back into town on a tire that is just a little too small, but it was all the
wrecker had at the time. When Sheriff Smith and Jill pull up at the sheriff s
station, Mr. Clark seemed to be almost in tears as he steps off the bus
looking around like he is a strange place. The middle-aged man pants are
covered in blood; Jill pulls out her camera and begins snapping pictures. Ok
let me talk to him first, Bobby opens his patrol car door so Mr. Clark can set
down. One by one the remaining students slowly and quietly step off the bus.
How many children did you have on this field trip, Sheriff Smith asks. I
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took twelve, Mr. Clark declares. Bobby only sees six kids now, Mr. Clark
where are the rest of the children. The frightened and confused man just
points to the school bus Go see for yourself.
Slowly Sheriff Smith walks over to the bus and pushes the small glass
doors that open to a set of stairs. Bobby really doesnt want to see whats
there but he has to, so one slow step at a time he moves inside the bus. The
smell of death hits him, Is anyone still on here, Bobby yells. The first thing
he notices is white powder all over the floor of the bus. Jill watches nervously
from outside. The sheriff looks closer to see pools of something red
underneath the white powder; he takes careful steps trying not to step in the
blood. Bobby stops and takes his flashlight shining it toward something on
the floor sticking up from under the powder. Instantly the sheriff reaches
down and picks it up, he raises it up to get a better look, but quickly drops it.
A young mans leg has been bitten off and it still has on the tennis shoe.
Bobby quickly drops it. Oh my God, I wonder what has happened here, he
mumbles. He uses his night stick to probe through the powder; there are
fingers, hands, and a foot with the tennis shoe still on it.
Sheriff Smith storms off the bus, Mr. Clark, what in the hell
happened out there? Hell.thats a good way of putting it, thats where it
seemed like those monsters came from, Mr. Clark mumbles. Come on Mr.
Clark, have you been drinking, Sheriff Smith is losing patients with him. Jill
rushes up and puts her arms around the six remaining children and begins
asking them questions. Come on now I need the facts; what happened?
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Bobby says. The middle-aged man sighs and stares at him, We were on our
way back to town when the children started changing into I guess you would
have to call them monsters, they were trying to eat each other. They
tried..it looks like some of them did each other from what I saw on the
bus, Bobby yells. Why is all that white powder on the floor? I had to use a
fire extinguisher to keep the monsters from killing the remaining children,
Mr. Clark seems like hes going to lose it. Just relax everything is going to be
alright, Sheriff Smith walks over to Jill and the remaining children. Did you
find out anything? Probably the same thing you did, the children started
changing into some kind of monsters, which doesnt make sense, Jill feels
sorry for the kids, they look like they are about to go into shock. Ok, if you
can stomach it you can take pictures of the inside of the bus now. Really,
Jill grabs her camera.
Nervously the tall nice looking blonde steps up on the bus, and the
revolting smell of death and decaying body parts meets her at the door. She
doesnt realize blood is under the white powder, so when Jill takes her next
step he almost falls quickly grabbing one of the seats, blood is all over Jills
shoes and the bottom of her jeans. Now Jill takes a good look and sees two
fingers and a hand lying on the floor covered in white powder. The young
woman has very weak stomach, so she turns on her camera snaps a few
pictures, and runs off the bus throwing up on the ground outside. Bobby sort
of smiles as he walks over to her, Are you alright, he pats Jill on the back.
Ill be ok, what in the world went on out there. Thats what were going to
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find out, Sheriff Smith sticks his head in the door of the station, Peggy is
being overwhelmed with calls. As soon as you can I need an ambulance and
a crime scene bus out here. Ok sheriff right away, Peggy just shakes her
head not believing so many people are dying from a virus.
The children were supposed to be back almost two hours ago so the
parents are standing around waiting for their child to get off the bus. Long
emotional hugs and kisses go to the six survivors, but the parents of the
other children explode with anger, Keiths father is one of them. The
outraged man goes straight for Mr. Clark, Alright you freak, wheres my
son, he pounds his fist on top of the patrol car. Ok thats enough, dont
make me arrest you Sheriff Smith steps right up in his face. I want to know
what happened to my son, Mr. Long screams again. The sheriff closes the
patrol car door with Mr. Clark inside because angry parents move toward
them. Were going to get some answers, even if we have to string that fag
up, another man shouts. Lets do it Larry Ive got some rope, someone
else shouts. Before Sheriff Bobby Smith knows it someone grabs him from
behind and now they are on the ground wrestling for his gun.
All of a sudden there is a loud explosion from the front of the sheriff
station, Peggy is holding a shotgun. Now listen up, youve got one minute to
clear out of here, before I start blowing some heads off, and at this range
there wont be much left. Peggy points the gun at Mr. Long first. Sheriff
Smith gets up and pulls his pistol, You heard her lets get moving now.
Alright were going, but sheriff you havent done anything since you took
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over this town, you better get off your ass and do something about our
missing children, or youre going to have trouble, Mr. Long shouts as they
walk away.
Sheriff Smith takes Mr. Clark into the station for more questioning, Jill
also follows him in she is still sick from seeing that gruesome sight on the
bus. Man I glad you showed up this phone is about to explode its been
ringing so much, Perry puts the shotgun back in the gun cabinet. All the
mothers want to know what happened to their children and you cant blame
them, Peggy looks at Mr. Clark. Were going to get some answers, why
dont you bring us a couple of black coffees with a shot of liquor in them,
Sheriff Smith says. Ill just go for the shot of liquor, Jill follows Peggy to get
her a drink.
Now Mr. Clark.. Please call me Jim. Ok Jim, I want you to start
from the beginning and tell us exactly what happened, Sheriff Smith takes a
sip of his spiked coffee. Jim Clark takes a sip of the coffee and seems to snap
out of it a little, he takes a deep breath and starts tell the gruesome story.
Ive been planning this field trip for months; I just wanted the students to
see some of the winter plants that grow in our area. The first part of the trip
went well, we were right on schedule and even the students were fairly well
behaved. It was around lunchtime we stopped on this large flat rock where
you can see for miles, thats when we spotted the container that was
smoking in the distance, Jim explains taking another sip of coffee. Peggy
and Jill pull out pads and start writing. What did the container look like,
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Bobby asks. Lets see it was about twenty feet long and had some type of
marking on the side of it. What did the makings say, Jill asks. All I could
see was the hazardous; I didnt get close enough to see anything else. Wait a
minute Marcus, one of the students slipped away from the group and went
right up to the container, and after that his behavior changed, fear fills his
face as he looks at all of them. What do you mean his behavior changed,
Bobby thinks this is getting to the cause of all of the attacks. Marcus began
to cough uncontrollably, and complained of a headache, Jim Clark seemed
nervous even to talk about it.
On our way back to town the school bus had a flat tire, thats when
everything started to happen. Marcus got on the back seat of the bus still
complaining of a headache. I found out later that Marcus slipped off the bus
while we were busy with the tire, and was eating a dead possum that was
lying in the road, Jim looks at Peggy who makes a face, Thats disgusting.
I got Keith, one of the student athletes to help me get the spare tire
unlocked, while we were doing this Keith cut his hand, before I could react
Marcus began changing. What do you mean changing, Bobby and Peggy
both ask. I know it sounds weird, but the boy turned into a dog or wolf.
Come on Mr. Clark are you sure, Bobby just cant believe it. I think all of
forgot I am a science teacher, I only deal in facts; I am telling you Marcus
changed into some kind of animal, I dont know what kind because Ive never
seen anything like it. Did you see all of the blood and body parts on the floor
of the bus, normal people dont do that, Jim Clark is standing up shouting at
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them now. Ok Mr. Clark calm down, what happened next, Bobby wants him
to finish the story. When I tried to talk to Marcus he growled at me, then he
bit a part of Keiths hand off, everyone screamed as blood splashed on the
windows of the bus, and on my shirt. I rushed back on the bus quickly taking
off my shirt and throwing it to the back seat of the bus. Right before our eyes
Marcus drags Keith off into the woods to finish feeding on him. I have to
admit, I was terrified, all we could do was listen to the horrible screams Keith
made as he was being ripped to pieces, Jim stops bursting into tears saying,
Those poor children.
Bobby frowns he is still having a problem believing all of this, Now
tell me what happened to all the other children. Everything was quiet; we
waited for almost two hours until the maintenance truck came and fixed our
flat tire. Since it was an old school bus the guy only had a tire that was just a
little too small, but we were desperate so I told him to put it on. While I was
driving them back to town several of the students started coughing and
complaining of headaches. A few minutes later I hear screaming, three of the
children begin changed into the same thing as Marcus; their upper and lower
teeth grew, and fingers grew into long claws. The three monsters sniffed the
air; unfortunately some of Keiths Longs blood was on my shirt, which I
threw on the back seat of the bus. Just the smell of fresh blood on the shirt is
enough to send the monsters into a frenzy. These three students whose
names I cant remember, grabbed whoever they were close to and began
ripping into their flesh. While all this was going on I was trying to drive, it was
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all I could do to keep from running the bus off the road. By the time I got the
bus stopped these three monsters had eaten up Joyce, Shirley, and Mike,
their remains are laying on the floor of the bus. The only thing I could do is
use a fire extinguisher on them; I shot it right in their faces and it must have
burned because they ran away howling like wounded animals. Mr. Clark
youre saying that these kids became cannibals, Jill asks. Yes, I guess if that
what you call it; can I go now? Yeah you can go to the hospital and get
checked out, so finish your coffee weve got to go, Bobby demands.
Peggy looks out the window and says, Oh my God. Bobby, Jill, and
Mr. Clark rush to the window and cant believe their eyes, Marcus Fowler the
young man that changed into a monster first is walking toward the sheriff
station. Oh no its him, dont let him in here hell kill us all, Mr. Clark shouts.
Bobby gets his binoculars to get a closer look at Marcus, He looks normal,
Ill go out and talk to him. Peggy get the shotgun and cover me, Bobby
checks his pistol takes a deep breath and nervously steps out on the porch of
the station. Marcus Fowler, Sheriff Smith shouts and the boy stops walking.
Stop right there; I am coming over to talk to you.
It seems like two miles Bobby has to walk to get out to Marcus, he did
not want him close to the station in case he changes into one of those
creatures. How are you feeling young man, Bobby asks. I have a little
headache, but otherwise fine. Ive been hearing some really bad things
about you; did you kill those children on the school bus, Sheriff Smith is
watching him closely. I.just cant remember, Marcus starts to sniff the air.
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Why were you coming to the sheriff station? I am not really sure it feels
like Ive done something bad, I just cant remember what it is, Marcus gives
the sheriff a hard stare still sniffing the air. Whats wrong with you son?
Bobby notices the teenagers eyes change completely black. I am not sure; I
think there is.blood nearby. No there is not any blood you must be
thinking about what happened on the bus, Bobby is trying to get him to
talk. Youre lying.there is blood, Marcus teeth begin to grow right before
Bobbys eyes. They forgot Jill still has blood on her shoes and jeans from
when she was on the bus. Oh no Sheriff Smith is in trouble, Peggy raises
the shotgun taking aim.
Sheriff Bobby Smith is terrified as this teenager changes into
something that looks more like a wolf, than a teenage boy. He features are
still there but his teeth and figure nails have grown. Marcus you are going to
have to get control of yourself; I cant let you go in the station, Bobby slowly
backs away from him. Marcus growls and charges toward him his teeth and
claws ready to feed, Peggy raises the shotgun, but seemly from out of
nowhere another shot quickly rings out. Bobby has pulled his pistol and shot
Marcus in the chest once, but he keeps coming. Bobby fires again, the
deranged teen stops for a moment tries to take a step and falls to the
ground. Oh no; Ive just shot another teenager, Bobby thinks retuning the
gun to his holster. Peggy and Jill come running out, Sheriff are you alright,
they both asks. Bobby cant say a word; he just stares at Marcuss body. Did
he bite or scratch you? Jill asks. No I am fine; I just feel bad killing a
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teenager. You didnt have a choice; weve already seen what they can do,
Peggy watches as Marcus slowly changes back to normal, but she is still
afraid to get too close to him. Jill snaps off picture after picture, Man this is
going to be a great story, she mumbles. Once they get back in the station
Peggy calls another ambulance for Marcuss body and Bobby takes Jill back
to her place. While they are riding Bobby calls Bill the coroner, Hey Bill, this
is Sheriff Smith, he man I need a favor youve got a teenage kid with multiple
gunshot wounds to the chest, check him out and let me know what you find.
What happened sheriff, I know the teens have been getting unruly
but..Ill explain when I get there, Bobby is still upset about shooting a
child.

CHAPTER FOUR
Its the morning of the sixth day after the plane crash and signs of
the Feeding virus are starting to show up even at Fort Brag in Fayetteville

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North Carolina. Private Denis Brooks was on the recovery team for the
downed plane at Rock Hill, he didnt know it but his hazmat suit had a small
hole in it, so some of the virus got inside. Denis has been back to the base
for twenty four hours and has not had any problems, but now he is
complaining of a bad headache. He has been dating a nurse that works at
the base hospital named Pam. Denis just got off work so he gives Pam a call.
Come on baby I really need you tonight. Thats all you think about is sex,
Pam complains. When are we going to get married? I told you once this
tour is over, I am getting out, and then we can get married, I can give you
the wedding youve always wanted, Denis says with a sly smile. Pam is
silent for a moment, Ok be at my place at eight oclock, you know the drill.
I know bring condoms, Denis sighs, But why do we have to use those
things, I cant feel anything. Remember no condoms you get no sex, Pam
says hanging up.
Denis usually runs a mile after getting off work, but today hes not
feeling well so he goes to his barracks and lies across the bed, his head is
really hurting. It only takes a few minutes and the young man is fast asleep.
By seven thirty someone makes a loud noise in the hallway, Denis looks at
his watch jumps up and heads for shower. Its eight thirty by the time Denis
arrives at Pams house, I thought you werent coming, she says opening
the door with only a bathrobe that is partially open, Denis doesnt even
notice stepping inside. You look sick, are you alright? Pam asks. Oh I am
fine, he says watching her close the door and the white bathrobe fall to the
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floor. Pam has short reddish hair; her body is very well proportioned and has
a tattoo on the lower part of her back. I am going to take a shower if you
want to join me, Denis watches her walk down the hall and becomes
aroused, he rushes to take off his clothes, as he walks toward the bathroom
naked Denis begins to cough. All of a sudden young mans sense of smell
seems to be really heightened; he detects a few drops of blood on Pams
operating room clothes. Denis screams as a pain runs through his head. Pam
is singing in the shower so she cant her him. The young man goes down to
his knees as his upper and lower teeth begin to grow, his eyes change along
with his fingernails.
Pam stops singing and suddenly realizes that Denis is not there.
Denis I thought you wanted to do it, where are you? If you dont come soon
the oven is closing up, Pam laughs to herself. The green flowered shower
curtain suddenly slides back; Pam looks up at something that is not Denis.
She tries to scream but a set of large claw-like fingers rips open her throat
and blood sprays all over the walls and floor. Denis rips open Pams stomach
and begins feeding on her internal organs. Once the deranged man finishes
he blacks out naked on the bloody bathroom floor.
Its Sunday morning seven days after the plane crash, Denis wakes up
naked on the Pams bloody bathroom floor, Pams bloody remains are still in
the tub; hes in a state of shock. The young man looks in the mirror his
features have returned, Denis looks normal. Did I do all of this, he mumbles
looking around. Denis realizes his military career will be over if hes found
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guilty of murder. He quickly washes himself and puts back on his clothes.
Nervously Denis looks around as he steps outside running to his car and
hoping no one sees him.
On Monday morning the MPs show up to the warehouse where Denis
works. Are you Denis Brooks, the two men ask. Is there a problem, Denis
is trying to hide his nervousness. You need to come with us; we have some
questions about one of your friends. Who are you talking about, Denis
tries to jerk away from them, but the two MPs drag him to the car. They take
the young sergeant to the base police station and place him in the
integration room. A few minutes later two captains step inside one of them
has a folder under his arm. Do you know a woman named Pam Oliver, one
of them asks. Yes I know her, whats the problem, Denis tries not to look
nervous. This is the problem, one of the captains pulls two pictures out of
the folder and slams them on the table Denis is sitting at. The pictures are of
Pams mutated body, all he can do is just sit staring at them. You know we
have a witness that seen you running from Pams house early yesterday
morning, both captains say together. Denis does not know what to do all he
can say is, I want to speak to an attorney.
Earlier that morning Jills story hits the front page of the Rock Hill
newspaper, and it causes quite a stir. Military plane carrying chemical
weapons crashes in our backyard, the caption says. There is a picture of the
planes wreckage on the top of the page, with the mutated remains of the
victims attacked by people with the virus on the bottom of the page with the
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words, Can a chemical virus because ordinary people to do all of this? Jill
called Sheriff Smith the night before and warned him so they were prepared;
he stayed in the station all day helping Peggy answer the phones. Sheriff,
what are you doing about this poison gas cloud that is over our city, and
what happened to the kids on the school bus, one caller asks. The sheriff
response is the same to everyone, Were working on it.
After a grueling Sunday at the station helping Peggy with all the calls
Sheriff Bobby Smith is not able to sleep tossing and turning as the events of
the past week run through his mind. Bobby is frustrated; it seems that he
cant get any help from the officials of the city. Sheriff Smith decides to give
Mayor Blackman a visit on Monday morning, to try and get something done
about this virus. Hello Christina, where is the mayor, he says walking into
the office. I am sorry sheriff, but Mayor Blackman has gone on vacation; I
think he went to New York, her southern accent is very noticeable. Hes on
vacationwith all of this going on, Sheriff Smith shouts. I know I heard
about the virus everyone is talking about it, what are you going to do?
Christina asks. Thats what I wanted to talk to the mayor about; he can be a
thick headed old man sometimes, Sheriff Smith storms out of the office.
When Colonel Mathews gets back to Piedmont Hospital Doctor
Weston is on the phone with the airport, It leaves at six, that will be fine,
Stan says hanging up. Where are you going? the colonel asks. I am going
to Atlanta to talk to the CDC, once they see how horrible this virus is theyll

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quarantine Rock Hill. I should be back tomorrow, Weston starts to pack,
Just keep an eye on Sam Taylor until I get back.
On the other side of Rock Hill Iris Carter is preparing for her trip to
San Francisco California. She has been named top realtor for the second
years in a row. Even in this slow economy Iris has been selling houses, a lot
of it is her great personality, and being very beautiful does not hurt either.
This thirty year old woman is five foot three inches tall, with long black hair
and green eyes. Iriss mother was born in Italy and her father is from
England, most of her family says she looks just like her mother. She rides her
bike or runs every morning so her beautiful body stays in great shape.
The young woman has been up all night packing and Iris finally has
everything ready for tomorrows trip, she hopes. There is no one to worry
about while shes gone, Iris is single by choice, and she broke up with her
boyfriend John a few months ago. With Iriss busy schedule showing houses
she has not had time for any relationships, John became jealous when she
had to spend so much time working so he suggested they date other people.
He was immature anyway, Iris mumbles as she combs her long hair getting
ready for bed.
By six in the morning Iris has her car loaded with all her bags, and is
on the way to the airport. Her flight does not leave until eight so she hopes
there is time for a cup of coffee. Iris does not want to leave her new car at
the airport, but she figures it is just as safe there as at her condo. When she
gets the North Carolina airport it is packed with people traveling for the
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upcoming holiday. Iris gets one of the guys riding the golf carts to help her
get all of her bags into the terminal, and now the long lines. Ironically Doctor
Weston flight to Atlanta is leaving out at the same time, and he is in line only
a few feet from Iris. As usual when people have to wait some get impatient,
some get into long conversations on their cell phones, while others look at
their watches every few minutes complaining about the long wait; Iris is so
beautiful every man within eye sight is staring at her.
All of a sudden Iris begins coughing uncontrollably, the woman in
front of her turns around and frowns. Doctor Weston has so much on his
mind he doesnt notice Iris at first, but when he hears her cough, Stan stares
wondering if Iris is from Rock Hill. Excuse me, I am sorry, excuse me,
Doctor Weston says moving from line to line to get a closer look at Iriss
luggage hoping her tags have her city and state on them. The doctor is right
next to her, Iris sets her bags down waiting for the line move forward and
Weston sees the tags, they say Rock Hill South Carolina. Stan Weston knows
he has to do something fast, If she gets on that plane shell infect everyone
on it, he thinks.
Hello Ms. I know you dont know me but I am a doctor, have you had
that cough long. Iris gives Weston a hard stare; there is something
pleasantly familiar about him. What a corny line. Every other guy I meet
says hes a doctor. No I really am a doctor, Weston reaches in his wallet
and pulls out his medical ID. Iris holds it up and laughs as she reads. Man I
have to give you credit, youre giving it the old college try. Look Ms. I know
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you think I'm trying to come on to you, but there is a very bad virus going
around, where are you from? I am from Rock Hill South Carolina, she says
with a sharp southern drawl. Ive been in that area doing so work, and like I
was saying you need to do something about that cough, Doctor Weston
insists. Oh really, Iris doesnt seem concerned. You need to get yourself
checked out. Ok I will as soon as I can, Iris goes through the metal
detector and Doctor Weston follows her. Whats your name ma-am? My
name is Iris Carter, now youve got my name so leave me alone. Oh how
rude of me I havent introduced myself, I am Doctor Stan Weston, did you
hear about the military plane that crashed right outside of Rock Hill? No I
havent now if you excuse me, Iris pushes past him. The military plane was
carrying a chemical virus; I think you need to get yourself checked out before
getting on that plane, Weston grabs Iriss arm. Let me go; what do you
think youre doing, she cant break his strong grip. I am not letting you get
on that plane and affect all those people. Help, security, security, Iris
screams. Two security guards happened to be walking by quickly run over.
What seems to be the problem ma-am? one of the officers says.
This crazy man wont let me get on my plane. Iris snatches her arm away
from Weston. What is your problem sir? both the guards say. Hey, I am
Doctor Stan Weston; Ive been working in the Rock Hill South Carolina area
where a military plane has crashed. Ok..doctor, so what does that have
to do with this woman boarding her flight, the taller guard asks. She is
from Rock Hill South, the plane had a chemical virus on board, if she has the
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virus that whole plane will be infected, the doctor explains. The two guards
look at each other and smile, Ok sir let the pretty woman go, and you come
with us. Each guard grabs one of the doctors arms, but he gets one arm
free long enough to give Iris one of his business cards. Call me when it gets
bad. Ok guys you dont have to be so rough, look I am telling you the
truth..would someone at least get my bags they are over there, Weston
shouts as they drag him away.
Ok.what did you say your name was, a short overweight man in
the security office asks. My name is Doctor Stan Weston, I am from
Columbus Ohio, I was sent to Rock Hill because seven days ago a military
plane carrying a chemical virus crashed over there. Well I am Wayne
Newborn head of security; let me have your drivers license. You know
youre making a big mistake letting that woman on that plane, if something
happens the blood will be on your hands, Weston warns. Look.doctor, I
wont tell you how to do your job, so dont tell me how to do mine, Wayne
Newborn shouts pointing his finger in Doctor Westons face.
Several minutes past as the two men sit giving each other long hard
stares. This guy is probably some wacko who was charged with medical
mal-practice and has lots him mind, he probably dreamed this whole thing
up, Wayne thinks. Twenty minutes later another security guard returns with
Doctor Westons bags and says, His drivers license checks out but there is
no word of any plane crash. Wayne sort of chuckles, Oh really, now.doctor
do you want to change your story. There is a knock at the office door and
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four men dressed in black suits enter the office. Were from Homeland
Security; my name is Richard Wilson, what seems to be the problem. This
Doctor Weston clams there is some type of virus lose and he was trying to
keep one of the passengers form boarding her plane, Wayne says with a
smirk. Look..I am not a terrorist, seven days ago a plane carrying a
chemical weapon, a virus crashed near Rock Hill South Carolina, the doctor
is standing now shouting at them. Richard Wilson looks puzzled, I have not
heard of any plane crash. Everyone looks at Doctor Weston like he is crazy.
Alright, I tell you what call Colonel Mathews, he stationed at Fort Brag, he
can explain everything, Stan Weston gives Richard a telephone number.
Finally after all the confusion Iris got on her flight and everything is
going smoothly, but suddenly she begins to cough uncontrollably. A man is
sitting on her right and a woman on her left; they both frown and turn away
from her. For some strange reason Iris begins having a bad pain in her head,
she puts her hand over her mouth to keep from screaming. Are you alright
ma-am, a stewardess comes up and asks. Yeah could you bring me a
soda please, Iris cant say anything else, she jumps up and runs to the
restroom closing and locking the door. Maybe that weird guy at the airport
was right, Iris thinks gripping the sides of the small sink she has never felt a
pain like this before. While Iris is looking at herself in the mirror, her lower
jaw expands and teeth begin to grow past her lips, they look animal-like, her
upper teeth and jaw do the same thing. It suddenly goes dark like the lights
went out, but when Iris focuses looking in the mirror she sees her eyes are
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jet black. Iris holds up her hand the young womans fingernails have grown
several times longer and much sharper. Oh my God, I look like a monster,
in a fit of rage, Iris uses her pocket book to pound on the mirror until the
glass breaks. Can this be some kind of nightmare, maybe Ill wake up in my
bed at home, she thinks.
Suddenly there is a knock at the bathroom door, Iris jumps. Is
anyone in there, a womans voice says. Yeah.Ill be out in a minute, Iris
mumbles. But Ive got to go, the woman sounds desperate. The woman
waits a few more minutes until a man comes out of the mens restroom, then
she quickly ducks inside the mens room. Hey wait, thats the mens, a
man says walking up as the door closes. Tell that to the bitch holding up the
other bathroom, the woman shouts. Is there a problem here, a stewardess
named Robin walks up. Yeah that woman is trying up the mens restroom,
a short muscular man says. Robin knocks on the door where Iris is, Is
everything ok in there? Yeah just give me a minute, I am not feeling well.
Iris says the pain in her head is subsiding. Shell probably be out in a
moment sir, you can use whichever one comes available, Robin the
stewardess smiles and walks to the kitchen. Is there a problem out there,
Gloria the other stewardess asks. No, someone is sick in the womens
restroom, and everyone is impatient as usual.
Now Iris watches in amazement as her upper and lower jaw and teeth
slowly go back to normal. Ten minutes later Iris emerges from the restroom,
Well its about time, an impatient woman says pushing past her into the
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restroom. Iris quietly returns to her seat still not believing what just
happened. Oh there you are, Robin says walking up with her soda. Were
you the one in the bathroom? Iris just nods her head. How are you feeling
now, Robin asks. Oh much better, Iris takes a couple of sips of her soda
and smiles. Now the young woman feels herself again, but Iris still cant
believe a virus did all of that.
The rest of Iriss flight was ok, no outbreaks, she logs onto her laptop
and searches for a military plane crashing in South Carolina, she searches
and searches but nothing comes up. I wonder whats really going on, was
that guy even telling the truth, but something caused me to change like that.
Maybe it was something in Rock Hills water, there has always been a
controversy about those plants dumping stuff, maybe thats what caused my
outbreak, Iris thinks. May I have your attention ladies and gentlemen, I
need you to return to your seats, fasten your seatbelts, and turn off all
cellphones, and laptops, we will be landing in San Francisco in five minutes,
the captain says.
Are you feeling better, Robin comes by and asks again. Oh yes
much better thank you, the two women give each other a quick hug. Iris can
suddenly smell everything about her even the type of soap and perfume
Robin used. Slowly the passengers file off the plane into the airport, Iris looks
for the baggage section, but again her sense of smell is really heighten. She
can smell everything from a woman all the way on the other side of the
terminal who just had a meal with onions, and when Iris walks past the
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restrooms she smells a man who just comes out without washing his hands.
Man this is really weird, something is happening to me, Iris thinks.
Now there is a crowd of people standing around the baggage shoot,
Iris sees two boys playing with some kind of toy and one of them gets his
finger caught in it somehow cutting a gash in it. Blood starts to pour down
the boys arm, Iris begins sniffing the air, she knows whats about to happen,
this is when she remembers what that Doctor said, stay away from blood. Iris
can feel herself changing; she runs to the nearest womens restroom, finds
an empty stall and slams the door. The young woman tries her best not to
scream, the pain is unbearable shes grabs the sides of the stall and the
walls shake as the pain runs through her body. Hey are you alright in there,
a middle-aged woman that was standing at the sink says knocking on the
door. By now Iris Carter has changed into a creature that only wants to kill for
human blood, a growling sound is coming from Iriss stall. There woman is
alone in the restroom, she panics and runs for help.
A few minutes later, a very skinny young man dressed in a security
uniform yells, Security. He and the woman step in the restroom and lock
the door so no one else could come in; the young mans name is Bryan
nervously he walks up to the stall and knocks. This is security is anyone in
there. There is now answer, Did you say there was a.howling? Bryan
whispers to the woman, she nods too afraid to say anything. They wait a few
minutes, Ill be out in a minute, Iris finally says. Bryan and woman looked
shocked when Iris steps out of the stall looking as beautiful as ever. Are you
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alright ma-am, Bryan had to ask. I thought I heard you scream and a sound
likehowling, the woman says. You heard howling I dont know who that
was, but it wasnt me, Iris says as she washes her hands and struts out of
the restroom under their watchful eyes. The woman is sure she heard a
strange noise so she decides to look into the stall. Slowly she pushes the
silver door open; suddenly the woman stops and puts her hand over her
mouth, Oh my God. Bryan looks into the stall to see deep claw marks into
both sides of the stall.
When Sheriff Smith gets back to the station Peggy has received a call
of another attack. This one is on Renwick Drive, its the Hearts residence.
Ok, I am on it, Bobby pours a half of cup of coffee gulps it down and heads
out the door. Sheriff you need to slow down, youre not a spring chicken
anymore, Peggy is worried about him, Sheriff Smith has not rested since all
this started, she mumbles.
Ambulances and the police have already arrived at the home of Rod
and Jean Heart by the time Sheriff Smith arrives. What do we have Jerry,
the sheriff knew Jerry when they were coming up through the police
academy. Jerry had a problem staying away from the women; he even got
caught sneaking a girl in his room while in training. To be honest Bobby, Ive
never seen anything like this, the victims body is ripped open and most of
his organs are gone. I know there is a rash of that going around right now,
Bobby Smith walks into the bedroom the poor mans body is laying on his
back in the bed, covered in blood. There is a large hole in the mans stomach
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everything inside is gone; the blood has soaked into the sheets and is
dripping on the floor. So whats going on that youre not telling me Bobby?
Jerry walks in taking pictures. The once gray and off-white walls around the
tub in the bathroom are almost covered with blood. Weve had a few of
these cases already, and its suspected that a virus is causing this, the
sheriff looks at Rod Harriss mutilated body. It looks like the attack started in
the bathroom; evidently the victim fought off the attacker and made it to the
bathroom where the attacker finished the job, Bobby says walking through
both rooms. I dont see how a woman could over power a man this size and
modulate him, Jerry says snapping pictures. Are you getting all of this
Jerry, I am on it sheriff, Jerry smiles remembering some of their younger
days. Hey remember that time I brought that chick in my bedroom and got
caught at the academy. How could I forget, have you settled down yet,
Bobby asks. You know me Ill never settle down, theres too many women.
Hey guy, have you got back on the dating scene since your wife died, Jerry
hasnt seen Bobby in a several months. No, I am not ready yet, Bobby tries
to ignore him. Come on dude its been almost five years, youve got to go
on with your life man. Look you is trying to give me advice, Ill get around
to it, lets finish up here, the sheriff does not want to talk about it. Is Mrs.
Heart still here, Bobby asks changing the subject. Yeah shes in the
kitchen.
Hey I want you to email me those pictures as soon as you get back,
Sheriff Smith says as him and Jerry walks into the kitchen. Jean Heart is
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sitting at a sturdy looking wood table with plush high back chairs around it.
Her face is red and eyes swollen from crying, Jean is sipping on a cup of
coffee. A female police office is watching her closely. Tell me what
happened, the sheriff says pulling out a chair and sitting down. To be
honest sheriff I cant really remember, Jean says. Tell me what you do
remember, Bobby Smith pulls out a note pad. I remember having a terrible
headache and lying across the bed. Did you and husband ever fight over
money women.you know the usual stuff, Jerry asks. Jeans frowns at him,
Yes .weve been having problems Rod came home wanting sex so I gave
in, while we were making love something came over meI just lost it, Jean
looks irritated quickly wiping a tear and pulling her sandy brown over her
ears. Have you ever caught your husband with other women, Bobby is
trying to find out if this was a crime of passion. Yes I have and I had made
up my mind to divorce him. Maybe you just had enough and wanted to
make him pay, Jerry says. No, no thats not it at all, something came over
me like the flu or something, thats when I lost it, Jean explains. Alright just
go with this officer downtown, well finish talking down there, Bobby helps
Jean with her chair she stands up, the officer puts handcuffs on the very nice
looking thirty year old woman and walks her to the squad car.
Jean has never been arrested for anything she does not want to go to
Jail, rumors has it that anyone infected are beaten and killed, she has to do
something fast. When they get almost to the squad car Jean takes her
shoulder ramming it into the female officers stomach knocking her to the
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ground. By the time the officer gets up and pulls her weapon Jean has
disappeared in the woods near her house. Jeans father tried to teach her
some magic tricks years ago, one of them was how to get out of handcuffs.
One hour later Bobby gets a call, Hey sheriff, where are you, his
radio blasts. I am at a burger joint getting something to eat, and can you
turn it down a few decibels. Sorry sheriff.but you need to get over here
as soon as you can, Peggy is trying to keep her voice down. Whats
wrong? Jean Heart is her and she wants to talk to you, shes Rod Hearts
wife. It takes the sheriff a few seconds to make the connection. I thought
they took her downtown, he mumbles. Oh my God Peggy is alone with
her, Bobby panics. Peggy I want you to listen to me very carefully, that
woman is very dangerous, shes infected you seen how Marcus changed, she
could be on top of you before you know it, keep your pistol handy and try to
get her into an empty cell, Bobby turns on his lights and siren and rushes
through traffic.
When Sheriff Smith pulls up to the station he gets out checks his
weapon to make sure its loaded, and rushes inside hoping that Peggy is ok.
To his surprise Mrs. Heart is sitting in a chair by his desk drinking coffee and
talking to Peggy like nothing ever happened. The sheriff takes a couple of
steps and stops, he suddenly realizes how gorgeous Mrs. Heart is, shes a tall
brunette with perfectly straight hair that drapes top of her shoulders like a
soft sweater, the womans hazel green eyes are red probably from crying. For
a moment Bobby Smith has to catch himself, Mrs. Heart looks a little like his
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late wife Susan. Oh hey sheriff..I guess youre wondering what I am doing
here, Jean sort of smiles at him. Yes, that crossed my mind, Bobby is not
amused. Sheriff, I just felt like when I got downtown they were going to kill
me, you know they are killing all the infected. Are you ready to admit you
killed your husband, Bobby asks. Yes, some of it is starting to come back
now, I cant live with what Ive done, she starts to cry and Peggy gives her a
tissue.
Ok first lets start with your name, the sheriff looks at her. My
name is Jean Heart, Rod Heart was my husband. I hope you dont mind if I
record this, Bobby pulls out a small cassette recorder. Now are you
confessing that you killed your husband? Yes, Jean starts to cry again and
looks for the sheriff to comfort her. Sheriff Smith remembers how normal
Marcus looked up until he changed, so hes not giving into the tears. Can
you tell me what caused you to kill your husband was he cheating or
something? Jean stops crying and give the sheriff a strange look. Yeah, I
told you I caught him with another woman.well I really didnt catch him but
he gave he a disease, and some other woman kept calling the house for
him. Youre saying you killed him because he was cheating? Bobby asks
again. You know sheriff I am really not sure. Youre not sure he was
cheating or youre not sure you killed him. Oh he was cheating alright Ive
got the medical bills to prove it. Can you tell me how you killed him,
Sheriff Smith looks at Peggy. To be honest I am not sure what happened, I
remember lying down because I had a splitting headache, Jean pauses. Ok
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what happened next, Bobby still finds it hard to believe that this beautiful
woman mutilated her husbands body.
The next thing I remember Rod came home wanting to have sex,
something inside of me snapped. I thought about him lying with that other
hussy..I dont remember anything else. When I woke up Rod was dead and
I was lying naked and unconscious on the bathroom floor, Jean explains.
Bobbys stares as his mind drifts thinking about this beautiful woman naked,
Do you remember coughing a lot before all of this happened? Jean
frownsYeah, but what does that have to do with anything. Oh its just a
hunch I have; do you know what you did to your husband, the sheriff turns
his computer monitor around so Mrs. Heart can see. No when I woke up he
was covered with a sheet I was afraid to look under it. Your husband was not
only killed his body was mutilated, the sheriff brings up the pictures. As you
can see most of his organs are gone, Bobby says watching her closely. Mrs.
Heart begins sniffing and Bobby slides his hand down toward his gun. Are
you sure this is Rod? Oh yes, I am sure, I just left your house about an hour
ago. Jean looks confused, I really dont know what to say, I dont remember
anything, but after talking to you at my house, I just felt you would give me a
fair deal. I am curious what did you do before you can home that day?
Sheriff Smith asks. I visited my parents on the other side of Rock Hill
Forest. Where they sick or anything, Bobby looks at Peggy. No, not that I
remember, Jean hopes the questioning is finished. Do you have anything
else you want to say in your defense, Bobby reaches for a set of keys on his
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belt. No, thats all, Jean Heart looks relieved this is over. Unfortunately
ma-am I am going to have to lock you up. Sheriff Smith leads her to an
empty cell.
Eight days after the plane crash night has fallen, Iris finds the huge
hotel in San Francisco, where the awards banquet will be held, a young man
takes Iriss bags to her room, and she gives him a tip and a smile, Thank
you that will be all. She sits on the side of the bed and pulls out Doctor
Westons card out of her purse. Do I have some type of virus.can it be
cured, Iris thinks dialing the number.
Doctor Weston finally got his flight to Atlanta once Colonel Mathews
comes up to verify everything. His flight was smooth but it is hard to relax
with so much at stake. Its six thirty by the time Stan gets his hotel. He heads
straight to the CDC, hoping to catch someone there. May I help you sir, the
beautiful receptionist says turning off her computer. Yes, I am here to see
Doctor Bridges; I am Doctor Weston. The woman picks up the phone and
talks to someone. Ok Doctor just take the elevators over there to the third
floor, Doctor Bridges will meet you there. Stan Weston thinks about the
feeding virus as he rides up the elevator wondering after all of this, was it
worth it.
Hello Doctor I am Allen Bridges, its a pleasure to meet you, a tall
man with sandy colored hair says, the two men shake hands. Come right
this way. Doctor Westons cell phone rings as they start to walk down the
hall. He looks at the number thinking its Colonel Mathews. Excuse me I need
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to take this, here watch this Ill be there in a minute, Weston hands him a
disc and walks a few more feet down the hall. This is Doctor Weston. Hey
doctor this is Iris Cater, there is a long silence. This is who? Iris Carter,
the woman you tried to stop in the airport. Oh yes, how are you feeling?
First tell me more about this virus you was talking about.
Approximately eight days ago a military plane carrying a chemical
weapon crashed outside of Rock Hill South Carolina. Once the troops found
the wreckage the container was damaged, and the chemical escaped,
Weston explains. What was in the container? There is an annoying long
silence, An airborne chemical virus that produces violent reactions. Well I
must have it because my face, teeth and eyes changed, I looked like a
monster, Iris says. Where did you have the reaction? I was on the plane.
Oh my God did anyone get hurt, Weston wonders. No, I ran into the
restroom before anyone could see me. I thought I was losing my mind, my
mouth started to swell as my teeth grew, and my eyes turned a funny black
color, Iris says. What about your hands? Oh yeah my fingernails grew
longer and much sharper; is all that from the virus? Yes, I am afraid so,
Weston sighs. Who in the world would create a virus like that? I did, the
doctor admits. What are you some kind of mad scientist that likes to inflect
pain on other people, Iris shouts, shes really angry now. No, I was under
contract for the military to develop a weapon that would save soldiers lives.
This virus would be released and the enemy would kill themselves by
cannibalism. Weston feels bad having to justify the weapon. Am I supposed
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to be impressed, youve infected me with something and cant do anything
about it, Iris starts to cry. Is there an anti-dose, she asks. The doctor cant
tell her about the anti-dose because it has not been tested on a human yet.
No, there is not an anti-dose yet, but I am working on it
Ok doc, what should I do now, Isis says. Where are you? I am in
San Francisco California; I am here for a real estate award banquet. Oh
man..I would advise you to get on a plane and come back to Rock Hill as
soon as you can. No way..I cant do that, I am here to receive an award
for top realtor, she shouts. Young lady you dont understand, this virus is
transmitted just like a cold, or flu, anyone you come in contact with can be
infected. Now you listen to me doctor, you created this mess, now you fix
it, Iris slams down the phone.
When Stan Weston steps into the conference room Doctor Bridges
has a troubled look on his face, What in the world have you done, this is
horrible. First let me explain, I was under contract by the military to create
a weapon that could take out an enemy with firing a shot or dropping a
bomb, Weston sits down. Yeah but this is in-human. I know thats why
NATO made us get rid of it. The virus was on its way to Alabama to be
destroyed when the plane carrying it crashed outside of South Carolina,
Doctor Weston pulls a folder out of his bag. How many cases do you have so
far? Its been nine days since the plane crash and there have been nine
cases, Doctor Weston waits to see what Allen Bridges will say next. He
doesnt say anything but just starts writing on a notepad.
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Theres another problem. This virus was supposed to only last for
2.4 days and dissipate, but it has already past that time. It seems that once
this virus gets a host it wont let go.ever, sort of like the chicken-pocks that
stays in your system and turns to shingles. Thats not all, this virus is
airborne so it can be transmitted like a cold or the flu which will make it
spread even faster, Weston explains. Allen Bridges walks over to his desk
and picks up the phone. Who are you calling, Weston asks. I am calling
the National Guard at Fort Bragg; they need to be on alert because we will
probably need them. Ive got a feeling this is going to get ugly real quick.
Yes this is Doctor Allen Bridges of the CDC in Atlanta, can I speak to Colonel
Mathews please. Weston is there an anti-dose? Allen asks while waiting from
someone to come on the line. Stan is a little surprised by the question, Yes,
there is an anti-dose, but it has not been tested yet. Well I suggest you get
started on it right away, there is a lab here with everything you need, even
Sam Taylors blood, Allen says. You want me to work here, Weston likes his
own privacy. Yes, I want you to work here, there are a lot of lives at stake
and time is against us now. Ok Ill call him back later, Allen says hanging
up. Come this way and Ill show you to the lab, Allen Bridges leads Stan
Weston to the elevators and they go to the basement.
Out in California Iris Carter is furious; she quickly undresses and steps
in the shower, as the hot water hits her beautiful body she tries to relax.
Flashes of the past few hours run across her mind, Can this really be
happening, Iris thinks as she dries off looking at her reflection in the mirror.
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All of a sudden her lower jaw and teeth begins to grow, then her upper teeth,
her eyes turn jet black and she screams from the pain that usually follows,
Iris closing her eyes. Once the pain leaves she opens her eyes, and shes
normal, I must be having flash backs.
Ive got to get myself together, my boss and all the people from the
office will be here tonight, I cant back out now, Iris thinks. The telephone in
the hotel room rings and Iris jumps. Hello, she answers sounding irritated.
Its Doctor Weston. How did you get this number? You called me on this
number dear. Oh yeah, well what do you want, Iris is still angry. Look Iris I
know it is a lot, but dont ignore this virus it is deadly, oh one more thing you
have to stay away from any human blood, Weston quickly hangs up.
Earlier that Saturday morning, outside a cabin near Rock Hill Forest,
Craig Johnson and his buddies are preparing to go on a hunting trip. Craig
has been planning this trip for months; hes been bragging to his buddy
George what a good hunter he is. Craigs father started hunting with him
when he was very young and they have killed many large deer together.
Craig works at the 3D Systems Company with one of his buddies George,
who also is a hunter. Georges brother-in-law Mike wants to take his son, who
is eight along for his first hunting trip, and Craig, agrees.
After all the guys get a cup of coffee they begin loading up two fourwheelers with shotguns, bows, ammunition and supplies for the trip.
Suddenly Mike begins to cough uncontrollably. Do you think you need to see
a doctor about that cough Dad, James Mikes son asks. No, Ill be ok, lets
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go get your first deer. The two four-wheelers head out driving through small
streams and up one hill and down another, until Craig says, Hold it. He
points to the ground a few feet in front of them, all three men look and shake
their heads in agreement, but James doesnt see anything. What are you
looking at, he shouts. Mike and Craig get James down off the four-wheeler
so he can get a good look. The young boy has to strain his eyes but there on
the ground are several deer tracks.
Ok we walk from here, Craig says. A cool wind is blowing this
December morning as they head deeper into the woods. Everyone is carrying
a weapon even James, his father has taught him everything about weapon
safety. Why do we have to walk dad? James asks. We have to be as quiet
as possible because deer have a keen sense of hearing and smell, those four
wheelers will be like putting a loud horn on, and the deer will just run away.
Mike remembers his first hunting trip with his father, he smiles to himself
thinking about the first time he fired his shotgun.
Our tree stands are just up ahead, hold it I see something, Crag
whispers. He pulls out his binoculars and rolls the black wheel to focus. Oh
my God, it cant be, Craig mumbles. Mike you need to keep your son here,
George come with me. Something very important has got Craig worked up,
he is walking really fast and George has to run to keep up. Where are we
going is such a hurry? Youll see, Craigs first thought that someone has
hung a black man, but that sort of thing has not been done around here in
years. Oh man, I wonder who hung him, George starts to stare at the white
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man hanging in the tree. It looks like he hung himself, theres a note or
something pinned to his shirt. Hey go back and get one of the four-wheelers,
we can use it to stand on to cut him down, Craig instructs. George lays his
shotgun down by the tree; he learned it is not safe to run with a large loaded
gun in your hand, one of his friends killed himself that way.
Is there a problem, Mike asks as George runs toward him. A man
hung himself, just keep your son right here for a few minutes, George jumps
on one of the four-wheelers and speeds off. While Craig is waiting he decides
to call 911. This is 911 emergency how can I help you, Peggy says. The
sheriffs department takes the emergency calls on the weekend, because the
police department is under staffed. Hey ma-am my name is Craig Johnson,
my friends and I were hunting over here in Rock Hill Forest and we found a
man hanging in a tree. Oh no..was he black or white, Peggy asks. The
man is white and looks sort of familiar, George says, as he pulls up with the
four-wheeler. Is the man still there? Yes but we are about..Craigs cell
phone loses the signal. No dont cut him down there might be some
evidence, Craig, Craig, Peggy yells but Craig cant hear her. After a few
seconds Craig says, Yeah I can hear you but youre breaking up. Where
are you? Peggy shouts. Were not far from my cabin near Beaver Trail,
Craig shouts as his phone goes completely dead.
Sheriff Smith this is Peggy come back please. This is Sheriff Smith
go ahead Peggy. I know youre busy but some hunters found a man
hanging in a tree over in Rock Hill Forest, up by Beaver Trail. Was the man
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black or white? He was white, Peggy says. I know this sounds bad, but I
am glad he was not a black man, all we need is a race problem with
everything else that is going on. Tell the guys to stay put Ill be there as soon
as I can. Sheriff Smith turns on his lights and siren and heads out of town.
Ok man, pull it in close so we can take the tension off the rope,
Craig tells George. It takes some maneuvering but George finally gets the
vehicle close enough. Alright on the count of three we need to lift him up.
Crag pulls his large hunting knife out of a pouch on his leg. The two men use
everything theyve got to lift the dead body up, the rope is cut and the man
falls into the back seats of the four-wheeler. Oh my God that smell, George
covers his nose. Yeah it looks like hes been here for a while, Crag pulls the
note off of the mans shirt.

CHAPTER FIVE
My name is Doctor Travis Wilson; I was a surgeon at the Piedmont
Hospital in Rock Hill. I can no longer live with what Ive become, or what Ive
done, this seemed the only way out, the note says. I wonder what he
means, Craig says looking at George. The sheriff is on his way he can
figure it out, we need to get back I am not crazy about riding with a dead
body. George you drive the body, Mike and his son can ride with me, Craig
instructs. Why me, I dont want to ride this dead man around either,
George complains. Come on George remember you owe me. Look, I know
you got me out of jail that time, but thats been years ago, George says.
Craig gives him that look like hes not changing his mind.
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The two four-wheelers sound like riding lawnmowers cursing through
the woods, Craig, Mike and his son ride together, while George drives Traviss
body. No one notices that Travis began bleeding from his nose before he
died, and blood is running down one side of his face. Mike begins to cough,
slow at first and then longer and harder. Are you alright, Craig asks. Yeah
sure, I guess my allergies are acting up. Mike is quiet for a while and
suddenly he begins holding his head screaming from the pain. Dad, dad,
whats wrong, James yells. Craig stops his vehicle and George pulls up
behind them. Mike has his face in his hands still screaming from the pain,
they cant see his upper and lower teeth growing, plus Mikes eyes have
turned as black as coal.
A clean shaving middle-aged man has turned into something horrible;
he growls at them, James eyes are wide open he is paralyzed with fear. Mike
stands up and leaps over to the other vehicle landing on Traviss body, his
sharp claws tears through the mans flesh with one swipe pulling out internal
organs, and eating them. Craig pulls a forty five from a shoulder holster he
usually wears and raises it. Just as he gets ready to pull the trigger, No,
thats my dad, James grabs his arm, but the gun goes off hitting Mike in the
arm. The deranged man grabs his grabs his bleeding arm, looks at his son
and runs off into the woods howling like a wounded animal. James burst into
tears as Craig tries to comfort him. That is not you father anymore, I dont
know what is wrong with him, but that is not you father. Craig, George, and

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James make it back to Craigs house as fast as they can constantly looking
from Mike to attack them again.
Out in California Isis is getting ready for her award dinner; she slips
on her evening dress looking at herself in the mirror, when there is a knock
at the door. Who is it, she yells. Girl open this door, its your mother, a
familiar voice says. Mom, oh my God, you didnt tell me you were coming,
Iris is so happy she hugs her mother several times. This is quite an award
being named top real estate agent in your region especially in this economy;
I told your father we had to come. Thanks dad for bringing her, Iris hugs
her father and starts to cry. Ok we dont have time for that, lets get ready,
Mr. Carter says not wanting to show any emotion. That flight is so long,
Mrs. Carter sits down in the small sofa in the room. Dont get comfortable
its almost eight oclock. You know your daddy loves to give orders, Mrs.
Carter says still sitting on the sofa.
Slowly the guests file into the large ballroom of the hotel as the
awards banquet is about to begin, Iris is starting to get nervous. The
ballroom is filled to capacity, people are there from the west and east coast,
and everything seems to be going along smoothly. Iris and her parents have
to sit all the way in the back of the ballroom and she becomes nervous about
walking to the front with everyone watching. After a brief delay the
ceremony finally gets started, there are a couple of speeches, and then
dinner is served. This food is delicious, Mrs. Carter whispers. I know I
started to ask for seconds but dont want to overdo it, Iris says.
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Finally the moment they all been waiting for, the regional director of
the west coast region begins calling names, and each recipient comes up
accepts a trophy and a check, plus says a few words. Oh my God, what am I
going to say, Iris blurts out, and the people in nearby tables start to stare.
Just says whatever comes to mind, her father says. The Carters wait on
edge of their seats until they hear South Carolina Ms. Iris Carter, the crowd in
the back where all of the people from Carolina are sitting erupts. This is
Iriss second year for this award, congratulations Iris, the director says as
Iris walks from the back of the room. She tries to take small steps so her
heels wont get caught in her dress. Iris is so nervous she is shaking like a
leaf as she accepts the trophy and the check. First I would like to say thank
you to everyone that has helped me; I think everyone in this room is either a
realtor or knows one, so we all know how hard it is to sell in this economy,
thats why this award really means a lot to me. Id like to say a special thanks
to my mother and father who without them this would not be possible, and
also a thank you for all the people in South Carolina our great state, Iris
says as the crowd erupts again.
Iris Cater cant think of a moment more special than this one, as she
walks back to her table Iris sees a couple giving each other a toast. When the
couples wine glasses touch the womans glass shatters cutting her finger
badly. Blood quickly runs down her arm onto the light blue dress and down to
the floor. Oh my God, the woman jumps up placing a cloth napkin around
her hand, and running to the bathroom in the back of the banquet hall. Iris
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sees the whole thing and begins sniffing the air. All of a sudden Iris takes off
running past her parents toward the restroom. Where are you going honey,
her mother asks as she past them. Ive got to go, is all she says.
Iris steps in the restroom closing and locking the door while the
woman is standing at the sink running cold water on her bleeding finger,
unfortunately for the woman no one else there. The smell of fresh blood
completely takes over Iriss sense of reasoning, suddenly Iris drops to her
knees, and all she can do is scream from the pain as the virus changes her.
Man, I really messed up my dress.. the woman looks up for the last time,
the thing Iris has become over powers her. She tries to let out a scream, but
Iris feeds on her throat first, and then starts on the internal organs. The light
gray marble floor turns red with blood as Iris devours her victim.
The blood crazed woman is almost finished feeding, when a knock at
the bathroom door interrupts her, Hey this is not a personal restroom you
know, the desperate sounding lady says. There is only one way out of the
bathroom because there are no windows, so Iris unlocks the door and quickly
hides behind it. Two women are in such a rush to get to the toilet they almost
stumble over the corpse on the floor, and fall in the pool of blood. Once they
realize the horror in front of them, their blood curdling screams fills the
restroom. It doesnt take long before a crowd gathers at the restroom door,
but Iris is nowhere to be found.
Beautiful Iris Carter went from receiving an award for top realtor to
running for her life from a murder she just committed. Ill just have to call
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my parents when things cool down, Iris thinks slipping down a dark alley
behind the hotel. Iris peeps around several corners until she sees an empty
cab. Take me to the other side of town with no questions, and Ive got an
extra fifty for you, Iris says stepping in the cab. As the cabby drives he
makes quick glances in his rearview mirror to make sure she is not going to
try anything. The terrified young woman looks out the window fighting back
the tears wondering if this could be some kind of nightmare. I need you to
stop at the nearest clothing store, she instructs.
Heres twenty five of the fifty if you wait for me, Iris hands the
cabby the money. Iris realizes shes walking around with blood all over her
evening dress, she has to think of something fast. Hello ma-am hopefully
you can help me, I came on my period early and I need some clothes. Ok,
help yourself we take visa, MasterCard, American Express, and cash of
course, the older lady says with an emotionless face. Iris walks through the
small isles grabbing two pair of jeans and two tops, Do you have a dressing
room? Yes right down there, the woman points. Iris slips off her bloody
dress and pulls the tags off the new clothes, slipping them on. She finds an
empty bag on the floor so thats where the bloody dress goes.
That will be ninety two fifty, the lady says. Iris starts to use her
credit card, but decides not to in case they are tracking her, so she pays
cash. When she gets outside the cab is still waiting, Iris hands the man
another twenty five and says, Take me to some cheap apartments. The
cabby sort of smiles, the drive only takes a few minutes now they are in
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China Town. It seems like every apartment on the street has a for rent sign in
the window. Ok this is good; if I dont come out in ten minutes you can go.
Her fair is seventy so she gives the cabby eighty dollars.
Iris walks up the steps and rings the bell, a short Chinese woman
comes to the door. What are you renting the apartment for? The rent is
one hundred fifty dollars a week, she says in broken English. Iris hands her
the money gets a key and retreats to the small dingy room. She sits on the
bed dazed and confused she wonders what to do next, the young woman
looks for Doctor Westons card. A virus cant be causing me to react like this,
there must be some other explanation, Iris thinks, she decides to call Doctor
Weston again.
Stan Weston has just got into his work on the anti-virus when his cell
phone rings, Hello Doctor, its Iris; it seems you were right, I just killed a
woman at the banquet I was attending, she starts to cry. Where are you?
I am in China Town in San Francisco, she tries to keep her voice down. I
was afraid of that, Weston mumbles. What do you mean doctor? Well
now that the virus has a human host it can spread like a cold or flu. What
am I going to do now, if they find me Ill spend the rest of my life in jail, Iris
fights back the tears. I want you to fly back to Rock Hill, go to the Piedmont
Hospital and ask for Colonel Mathews, hell know what to do; Ive got to go,
Doctor Weston hangs up.
Back in Rock Hill Sheriff Smith finally arrives at Craigs cabin. Craig so
upset seeing Mike mutilate that mans body he waits in front of the cabin for
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the sheriff. Hey Bobby, remember me, I am Craig Johnson; I am the one that
called. Well, you sure have grown, hows the family? Oh grandma is fine,
still mean as ever. Where did you find him? Bobby Smith asks looking
around the outside of the cabin. It was about three miles over that ridge do
you want to see where it was? No, that wont be necessary, just show me
the body, the sheriff notices Craig keeps nervously looking around for
someone. Are you looking for someone? Oh, not exactly, heres the body,
Craig leads the sheriff to the back of the cabin; he has covered the body with
some camouflage tarps. As soon as the sheriff pulls back the tarp he knows
what happened. I thought you said this man hung himself. He did, but on
the way back one of our friendschanged somehow intosomething Id
never seen before, he started eating the dead mans body like it was food,
Craig is almost in tears. This friend does he have a name? Yeah, his name
is Mike, hes Georges brother-in-law. Ok wheres George, the sheriff
wonders. Hes inside, come on in.
Sheriff Smith walks into a very nice log cabin where a dark haired
man that looks to be forty, and eight years old boy who looks lost and
terrified sit on a leather sofa watching TV. You must be George; Ill talk to
you in a minute. How are you holding up son, Sheriff Smith asks James. The
boy burst into tears and runs to hug him. My father changed into some kind
of monster, James screams. I know son.do you have any soda or coffee,
the sheriff ask Craig. Yes, I have both, Craig heads for the kitchen. Ok go
get you a can of soda big man, and Ill be back to talk to you in a minute,
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Bobby leads James to the kitchen. Ok George I want to talk to you outside,
the sheriff opens the door. So what happened out there? Well we were
deer hunting and found this guy hanging in a tree, so we cut him down and
started back to the cabin. Thats when Mike changed into something Ive
never seen before, George explains. Ok what happened next, Sheriff
Smith already knows the rest of the story. Mike just began eating the dead
mans body like it was food. Did the boy see all of this? Yes he did and he
hasnt said much since. Poor kid.Ok hears what were going to do; I am
taking the boy to the hospital and his mother, and I want you two to stay
here until the ambulance comes for the body. I am sure you should have
enough weapons to hold off Mike if he comes back, Sheriff Smith explains.
Are you giving us permission to shot someone sheriff? George asks. Yes,
and make sure you hit the thing Mike has turned into more than one time
there are hard to kill.
Alright.James were going for a ride in a patrol car to see your
mother. What about my dad.he really didnt mean to hurt anyone, maybe
hes sick or something. I know son these guys are going to help your father
if they see him, but right now we need to get you to your mom, Sheriff
Bobby Smith heart is broken because he loves kids. Make sure you tell Craig
everything I told you, Bobby whispers in Georges ear. Hey sheriff hears the
note we found pinned to the dead guy, Craig hands him a piece of paper.
While they are riding through the woods back to town, James continually
looks out the window for his father. When they reach his house James jumps
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out of the car and runs to his mother who is outside waiting for him. Sheriff
Smith walks over and Jamess mother asks. Have you heard anything from
my husband? No, ma-am, but Ill let you know as soon as I hear
something, the sheriff holds her hands as she fight back the tears.
Its the week before Christmas; people in Rock Hill are scurrying in
and out of stores for those last minutes gifts. All of the children are out of
school and excited about Christmas. Today the weather is warm almost
seventy degrees. A young man named Donald Douglass eats and breaths
football, he watches every pro game and loves to pretend to be one of the
star players. There is an empty lot down the street from Donalds house
where he and his friends Bill, Mark and Jessie have their football games. This
is their version of the super bowl; Donald and Bill are the New York Giants,
while Mark and Jessie are the Dallas Cowboys.
Now both teams are in their huddles all of a sudden Donald starts
coughing, Bill frowns at him. Hey man you need to check those germs.
Alright Bill concentrate, I am going to fake the run to the right side, while
you go out for a pass, Donald instructs. Bill nods and also starts to cough.
Three, eighteen, three eighteen, hut, hut, Donald yells. Bill centers the ball
and goes out for a pass. While Bill is running looking back for the pass, Mark
runs right into him with a hard tickle driving him to the ground, it was text
book. Bill slowly sits up holding his head, Hey I didnt get the ball yet. Bill
reaches up and wipes his nose which has started to bleed. For some reason
Mark suddenly screams from pain and goes to his knees, his upper and lower
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teeth begin to grow forcing his jaw outward, and his fingernails become
extremely long. Donald and Jessie also develop the same features and now
all three surround Bill. Why are you staring at me like that, and what
happened to your faces. Wait a minuteno, no, Bill screams. His
desperate cries for help are quickly silenced as claws and teeth rip into his
flesh, the three monsters feed on his body. In just a few minutes there is
nothing left of Bill but a pile of bones and torn clothes, Donald, Allen, and
Mark start to look at each other and growl? The feeding continues, now as
the three viruses controlled boys tear into each other until there are only
body parts and a few pieces of clothes left.
By that evening all the boys parents become worried and call the
sheriffs station. Hey Peggy this is Mrs. Douglas Donalds mother, I am
beginning to get worried its way past dusk, Donald is always home by this
time. Now Mrs. Douglas dont get all worked up theres probably a good
explanation, maybe time just slipped by him. Oh I hope youre right. Just
to be on the safe side Ill call the sheriff, Peggy says.
For the first time in ten days Sheriff Bobby Smith has a quiet night,
once he gets home Bobby showers and lies on the sofa to watch TV. Just as
he starts to fall to sleep the phone rings, Yeah Peggy. I know I said you
needed to rest.but weve got four missing boys, one of the mothers Mrs.
Douglas is worried sick, can you go and check on them please. Yeah..I
had a feeling something would happen to spoil my rest, Bobby reaches for
his uniform.
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Mr. Blankenship a retired Army Captain is having trouble with
Christmas this year, his wife died on Christmas Day last year; he lives a few
houses down from Donald. Ed Blankenship is up walking his dog Willie, who
loves to get outside and explore. Today Willie is hurriedly pulling the fifty nine
year old man toward the vacant lot where the kids play Whats wrong boy
do you see a squirrel, Mr. Blankenship says petting Willie on the side of the
neck. Willie begins to bark louder and louder as he gets closer and closer to
the gruesome sight. He almost has to run to keep up with the one hundred
pound lab, but finally they get there, and the smell of death meets him at the
sidewalk. Lying in the grass are fingers, a part of a half-eaten leg with the
tennis shoe still on it, and a young boys head that has been mutated beyond
recognition. Mr. Blankenship pulls out his cell phone and calls for help.
Sheriffs station, how can I help you? Peggy says. Is that you sheriff? No,
this is Peggy. This is Mr. Blankenship, I think I found the missing boys, the
old mans words are broken as he starts to cry, hes seen so many young
men get killed in the wars, but these were just children. The sheriffs cell
phone rings as soon as he gets in the patrol car. The missing boys are
found.there near Mr. Blankenships place, Peggy fights back the tears. Ill
be right there, Sheriff Smith says.
Fifteen minutes later Sheriff Smith pulls up in front of Mr.
Blankenships house, he sitting on the porch almost in shock. Ok, where are
they? Just drive up the street to the vacant lot you cant miss it, I am not
going back up there, Mr. Blankenship declares. Sheriff Bobby Smith
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prepares himself; he remembers the massacre on the school bus. Slowly he
drives down the street; Bobby wonders why someone has not found the boys
before now. He stops the patrol car and gets out, that unmistakable smell of
death hits him, the green grass has turned red from the blood, and body
parts are everywhere. Peggy, this is Sheriff Smith I found the missing boys,
we need a couple of ambulances over tothe street Mr. Blankenship lives
onI just cant think right now. Bobby pulls a caution tape out of his patrol
car roping off the area, and a crowd of people begin to gather. Hey sheriff
does this have anything to do with that plane that crashed near here, I heard
it had some poison gas on it, one man says. Were not sure yet, but
whatever it is, iis contagious so I wouldnt get too close. The small crowd
slowly starts to back off the vacant lot to a spot across the street. Thats the
most effective crowd control Ive ever used, Bobby thinks and smiles.
The phones at the station are ringing off the hook so Sheriff Smith
jumps in to help Peggy. The fourteen know deaths have escalated to forty
nine, and sixty injured with the possibility of contracting the virus. Theres
something really weird going on here, the sheriff looks up the telephone
number for Fort Bragg, Surely they can help. Bobby watches Peggy
struggle with the phones, and trying to keep it together. Are you alright,
he asks touching her on the shoulder. Peggy has always liked Sheriff Smith,
but when he started dating Jill she backed off, his touch feels really good. Ill
be alright, she puts her hand on top of his and looks up at him. Bobby sees
the loneliness in her eyes, but hes not ready for a serious relationship right
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now. I am calling Fort Bragg to see if they can help us, he quickly says
changing the subject.
Fort Bragg administration how can I direct your call? Look I dont
know who I need to talk to, but I am Sheriff Smith of Rock Hill South Carolina,
we have some type of poison or something in our town forty nine people are
dead. If it means anything a military plane crashed outside of our town
eleven days ago, we need help. Hold on sir Ill be right back. Sheriff Smith
waits ten minutes and the young woman comes back on the line. Sir I have
a number you can call, his name is Colonel Mathews hes handling the plane
crash; I think hes in Rock Hill at the Piedmont Hospital right now.
It has been two days since the colonel has heard from Doctor Weston
and hes beginning to get worried, the colonels cell phone rings. Hello
doctor.. No sir my name is Sheriff Bobby Smith, I am the Sheriff of Rock
Hill South Carolina. I am calling for some answers; a military plane crashed
outside of our town eleven days ago and people are being affected with
something really weird. What do you mean by weird? They are acting like
cannibals, Bobby says getting loud. I knew it would come to this, I tell you
what son, I am at the Piedmont Hospital in Rock Hill, come in the front and
asks for me, the colonel motions for someone.
I hate to leave you Peggy, but Ill be back in a few minutes, Bobby
grabs his hat. Where are you going? I am going over to the hospital to talk
to a colonel from Fort Bragg; hopefully he will have some answers. I hope
this colonel can shed some light on all of this mess, Bobby thinks as he
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drives. As he walks through the hospital many people stop for a few seconds
realizing hes a sheriff. He has always been amazed to see peoples reaction
when they see him in uniform. He figures the ones that have something to
hide usually stare the hardest. As Sheriff Smith walks through the hospital
lobby he sees a young man who looks just like Marcus the teenager he had
to shoot. Bobby remembers the shooting in North Carolina.
Its a hot summer afternoon in Charlotte, officer Bobby Smith has just
got off work and he stopped by the bank to cash his paycheck. He does not
trust direct deposit, because of problems he has had in the past, plus Bobby
likes to see his check before he pays everyone. When he steps inside the
bank everything seems normal, but two teenage boys have something else
on their mind. One young man who looks to be seventeen is standing in line
in front of Bobby, while the other is at the writing station in the center of the
bank; both of them keep nervously looking at each other and watching the
large clock on the wall behind the tellers. Bobby is not in uniform because
hes been working under cover for the past few weeks so no one knows hes
a cop.
Just as the first young man gets up to the teller he turns around and
says, Alright everyone down on the floor now, he fires several rounds into
the air from his AK-47. The other teen pulls out two forty fives and walks
around the bank pushing people down that try to stand up, get down on the
floor, the boy hits Bobby in the back with one of his guns. The teen that was
in the line jumps up on the counter, Now fill up these bags and hurry up
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bitch, we havent got all day. The three women tellers nervously stuff the
bags that look like pillow cases full of money, hoping these crazy teenagers
dont kill them. While Bobby is down on his knees he slowly pulls up his shirt
grabbing his gun, he knows there is only one chance to stop them, and the
time is now. The tall young man is right above Bobby on the counter, he
takes a deep breath jumps up and says, Hold it Charlotte Police. The
seconds seem like minutes, the boy takes aim, but Bobby fires first hitting
him in the chest, the boy falls to the floor. The other teen fires twice and one
bullet hits Bobby in the shoulder, as Bobby falls he fires three shots two of
them hit the teenager knocking him on a table. Bobby Smith just sits down
on the floor in a daze; he cant believe he just killed two teenage boys. This
man just saved our lives, one of the customers in the bank says. What is
your name sir? My name is Bobby Smith I am a police officer. Well I just
want to say thank you for saving us, the man pulls out his cell phone and
dials 911.
Bobby suffered for a long time after this day; he had never shot a
teenager before. The nights were sleepless and the days were a blur. About
six months later Bobby moved to Rock Hill looking for a slower pace in a city
with less drama. Now in the quiet town of Rock Hill, Bobby had to shoot
another teenager at point blank range, this brought back a lot of the old
memories about the bank robbery in Charlotte. There has to be some
explanation for all the weird things going on in Rock Hill, Sheriff Bobby
Smith thinks as he walks in the hospital.
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Yes, I would like to speak to Colonel Mathews, Bobby says to the
woman behind the receptionist desk. Oh sheriff, the colonel is expecting
you; just take those elevators to the third floor. Once the elevator doors
open Sheriff Smith sees a tall balding man that looks like he works out says,
Hello sheriff. While they shake hands Bobby notices the birds on his uniform
distinguishing him as a Colonel. Let me start by showing you the first savior
of the virus, the colonel leads Bobby down a hallway to some double door
where he uses his ID badge to get in. They walk down a hallway and the
rooms are full of people that were lucky enough to survive an attack, but in a
few hours they will be infected themselves. You mean a virus is causing all of
this, Bobby asks. Yes about eleven days ago one of our planes carrying a
top secret weapon crashed outside of Rock Hill. So this virus is a secret
weapon, Sheriff Smith gives the colonel a strange look. Yes the military
wanted a weapon that could destroy an enemy without firing a shot or
dropping a bomb, but this virus is not like anything youve ever seen, the
colonel stops in section that has glass walls. Is this the isolation floor?
Sheriff Smith asks. Yes, these people have been attacked and survived,
most have had a reaction so we are keeping them isolated until we figure out
what to do; there is someone I want you to meet, when the Colonel steps
around the corner a healthy looking man, that looks to be forty years old
stands up and walks to the glass. This is Sam Taylor he was copilot of the
plane that crashed. When are you going to let me out of here colonel, I feel
fine, Sam Taylor asks. Why is he here, theres nothing wrong with him,
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Sheriff Smith asks. Sam Taylor was exposed to the Feeding virus, come with
me and Ill explain. Oh the virus has a name? Bobby follows the colonel
around several hallways to a conference room.
Bobby Smith steps into a room where a computer is set up to power
point. Have a seat sheriff, Colonel Mathews pulls out a chair and locks the
door. What youre about to see if top secret, its a little disturbing, just
wanted you to know. The footage you are watching is of Sam Taylor right
before the corpse is brought into his section. Sam looks normal at first, but
he begins to sniff the air, he knows fresh blood is near. He coughs a few
times and falls to his knees screaming from the pain in his head. Right before
Sheriff Smiths eyes Sam begins to change, its a little at first, but then Sams
eyes turn coal black, and his upper and lower jaws expand as longer sharper
teeth grow. Sam puts his hand up to his face and even his fingers have
grown longer, hes a perfect killing machine. Youre saying the virus causes
all of this, the sheriff asks. Yes, unfortunately it does. Why would
something as hideous as this even be needed? We were trying to develop a
weapon that could be used on an enemy without losing soldiers lives. This
virus could be dropped on an enemy and they would destroy each other,
Colonel Mathews defends. I am curious colonel, you said this was top secret,
but people in Rock Hill are dying, so the secret is already out. I know the
government is good for covering stuff up, but I think its a little late for that
dont you. So what is the military planning to do about this virus, Sheriff
Smith stands up and pounds his fist on the table. The creator of the virus, a
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Doctor Stan Weston is in Atlanta right now at the CDC, showing them this
information in hopes they will quarantine the city. All I have to say colonel,
you and your doctor need to stop playing around, my people are dying,
Sheriff Smith storms out of the hospital.
Now that she has changed clothes Iris Carter feels a little more
relaxed, she standing in line at the airport to get her flight back to Rock Hill
South Carolina. She begins to remember what Doctor Weston said about
infecting other people with the virus. Id like to cancel my flight, Iris says
when she gets to the counter. Ma-am you have a round trip ticket, we can
cancel your flight but theres no refund. Why do you want to cancel?
Something came up and I am going to drive back.
At the same airport the flight crew that brought Iris to California,
which consists of Robin Atkins, Gloria Stewart stewardesses, Peter Edwards
pilot and copilot David Lawson, are headed to New York, all of them have
been coughing and complaining of headaches. The passengers are slowly
boarding the plane which has just finished refueling. How do you feel after
this quick turn around, Gloria asks Robin. Oh its going to take some
getting used to, but this is what I signed up for, Robin just started as a
stewardess three months ago. A teenager named Nathan Harrington was in
San Francisco for the holiday, but he was a in a very bad car accident one of
his friends was driving drunk. Since his parents are out of the country his
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the Christmas holiday. Nathans upper body and chest were badly bruised,
and one of his arms has several deep cuts, its wrapped in white bandages.
Alright ladies and gentlemen this is your captain speaking we have
partly cloudy skies with a temperature of seventy degrees and a chance of
rain. Now I need everyone to fasten your seatbelts and turn off all cell
phones and note books. Nathan is a little afraid of flying, so he and most of
the passengers become quiet as the large jet speeds down the runway and
becomes airborne. Robin walks by meeting all the passengers, Can I get you
anything, she ask Nathan. No thank you I am fine. What happened if you
dont mind me asking? Oh I was riding with my friends and some guy hit
us, one of them was killed. I guess I am lucky to be alive, Nathan explains
forcing a smile. Yes thats true, but I am sorry to hear about your friend,
Robin notices one of the bandages on the young mans arm is starting to
leak blood. Suddenly she begins to cough and have a tremendous headache,
Excuse me, Robin rushes to the center of the plane where the
stewardesses prepare meals, and disappears behind a curtain. Whats
wrong, Gloria asks. I dont know I was talking to this guy in 41C and a
terrible pain hit me in the head, Robin sits down. Are you getting sick,
Gloria feels her forehead. No.I dont think so; I took my flu shot this year.
Alright you rest for a few minutes, and Ill finish with the passengers.
Gloria walks through the plane meeting and greeting the passengers,
but when she gets to Nathan, Gloria has a sharp pain in her head, and begins
to cough. Are you alright ma-am, Nathan asks. Yeah sure.I am fine,
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excuse me for a moment, Gloria rushes to the center of the plane. The
same thing happened to me; maybe we both are catching something. I
sure hope not, this is going to long flight if we are, Robin pours drinks for
the passengers.
Their flight left San Francisco at six oclock in the evening now
darkness is starting to fall. Some passengers turn on their overhead lights
and read; others get on their computers or watch movies. Reggie is almost
asleep watching his favorite series The Walking Dead. Only the dim lights
that run along the walls and floor light up the plane now. Robin stops to
check on Nathan and see if she has the same reaction. How are you doing?
I am fine, Reggie raises his arm to switch on the light, and the blood has
seeped through his bandage again. A sharp pain hits Robin in the head, this
time it is much more sever. She has to grab the seat to keep from falling.
Nathan thinks hes still watching TV as Robins upper and lower teeth and
jaws begin to expand, and her eyes turn black as coal. Fear fills Nathans
face when he realizes what about to happen he tries to scream, but Robins
teeth and claws have already taken a large section out of his neck. All the
commotion wakes the nearby passengers and they jump up screaming when
Nathans blood sprays on them. Some of the passengers run to the center of
the plane, Ms. Can you help us that stewardess.. when they pull back the
curtain the virus has already changed Gloria, she grabs her two victims and
begins to feed. Everyone is panicking now some of the passengers run to the
front of the plane and pull open the door to the cabin, Captain youve got to
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help us.. The pilot and co-pilot have already attacked and eaten each
other; it seems one of them cut his face saving before they took off.
Oh my God no one is flying the plane, one man shouts before he
over run by the two monsters. A teenage girl named Classy drops her cell
phone just before she runs to the restroom and locks the door. As luck would
have it the phone hits the video record button when it lands on the floor and
it records everything. Robin and Gloria have a feeding frenzy because their
prey is trapped inside the jetliner. One man is so desperate he pushes open
the emergency exit door; suddenly the man, other sections of people, body
parts, and the cell phone are swept out of the plane. The big DC-10 loses
cabin pressure flipping upside down and is headed straight toward the
ground.
Flight 296, flight 296, this is Dallas tower whats your status, the air
traffic controller says, but there is no answer. Flight 296 youre off course for
New York, and youre losing altitude, but there is still no answer. Pull up
flight 296, youre too low, pull up, the controller shouts. The crippled aircraft
plows into the ground exploding into a ball of fire. The ill-fated plane crashed
just outside of Dallas Texas, and the planes wreckage was spread over
several miles. It takes several days for the FAA to comb through the
wreckage but they find the teenagers cell phone and it is still working, it is
rushed to the FAA headquarters in Dallas.
It doesnt take long for the news of the plane crash to hit all the
networks, With this breaking news, a DC-10 from San Francisco to New York
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crashed just outside of Dallas today killing one hundred forty nine
passengers and crew. Causes of the crash are still under investigation, the
reporter says. The officials at FAA look at the cell phone footage several
times still not believing what they are seeing. The director of the FAA, Gerald
Evens calls the CDC in Atlanta and talks to Doctor Bridges.
This is Doctor Bridges how can I help you? Yes, this is the chief
director of the FAA in Dallas, Gerald Evens; I guess you heard about the
plane crash today. Yes, we heard it was very bad, but what does this have
to do with the CDC? A young womans cell phone accidentally recorded
everything that went on right before the crash. I dont want to say any more
over the phone, I think you need to see this; I am flying it to you right now,
Gerald says as they hang up.
Back in Rock Hill Sheriff Smith goes to see Mayor Blackman; hes
tired of him playing politics while people are dying. Is the mayor in, the
sheriff asks as he walks in his office. Yes, Sheriff he is but..wait a minute
you cant go in there, the secretary tries to stop big Bobby Smith but he
barges through the double doors. Sheriff..what is the meaning of this, the
mayor shouts and the governor looks very surprised. The meaning of this is
people are dying, forty nine in the last eight days, and twenty five of them
have been people of Rock Hill, but nobody seems to give a damn. Look
Sheriff I know youre upset, but thats what we were just talking about, the
mayor is trying to calm big Bobby down. We were just talking about putting
Rock Hill under a state of emergency, Mayor Blackman defends. Ive been
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getting phone calls from a Colonel Mathews and Doctor Weston for the past
few days, the governor adds. Sheriff Smith slowly calms down, Well thats
good, so how do you go about telling everyone. It will be announced on TV,
radio, the internet, and all the other sources. The message will tell people to
be mindful of their habits like washing their hands and coughing on each
other, every precaution they would take to prevent the flu. Mayor Blackman
explains.
While they are talking the Mayors phone rings, Mayor Blackmans
office, Christina says. May I speak to Mayor Blackman; this is Doctor
Bridges of the CDC. Mayor youve got a call from a Doctor Bridges of the
CDC. The sixty year old man tries not to look nervous as he picks up the
phone. This is Mayor Blackman. Yes mayor this is Doctor Bridges of the
CDC; Ive got Doctor Weston here, he created this virus we are trying to deal
with. He has explained to me about the virus and youve got a real problem
on your hands. Have you seen what a person effected by the virus can do?
No doctor I havent. Well, give me your e-mail and Ill send you some
pictures, Bridges suggest. That wont be necessary, Ive heard the
reports, Mayor Blackman does not want to look un-informed in front of the
governor. Due to the drastic effects this virus is having on your city, we
have no other choice but to quarantine Rock Hill until we get this thing under
control, Doctor Bridges says. So how does this work, the mayor asks. The
National Guard will be sent to Rock Hill and no one will be allowed to leave or
enter the city until the virus is controlled. But its the Christmas Holiday,
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our town need that revenue, the mayor starts to pace back and forth.
Mayor if you dont get this virus under control you wont have a town, do
you have any questions, Bridges asks. No, it seems youve taken over
everything, Blackman mumbles. Its our job to protect the whole population
which sometimes means quarantine, Doctor Bridges says hanging up.
Stan Weston is looking around trying to get use to his new living
quarters at the CDC. His room has all the latest updates, there is a king size
bed, a small sofa, two chairs with a table, its set up like an extended stay
motel except with a functioning lavatory in the next room. Well how do you
like it? Bridges asks. Oh it looks like motels I have stayed in before, Doctor
Weston opens the microwave door. These rooms are used when an
emergency happens and we cant get to our homes. Oh really, Doctor
Weston sets his bags down. Oh youll be glad to know in about two hours
Rock Hill will be under quarantine; let me know if you need anything, Doctor
Bridges pats him on the back. Hey thats great news about Rock Hill; its the
right thing to do. I knowits my job, are you saying that for my benefit, or
yours, Bridges says stepping back into the room. Its mainly for my benefit;
Ive had serious issues with this project since the beginning, and I havent
sleep in weeks, Doctor Weston admits. Thats ok Stan well finish the antidose and this will all be over soon.
It has been twelve days since the plane crash and Doctor Weston
spends the week in the lab mixing blood and trying different formulas for an
anti-dose. Stan Weston uses a computer generated test exposing Sam
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Taylors blood to the different anti-doses. Each anti-dose solution would fight
the feeding virus until its eighty percent complete, and then the virus would
over-power the anti-dose causing it to fail. Stan is getting frustrated he
knows time is running out, Ive got to come up with an anti-dose. Maybe
the other twenty percent will come if its injected into the body, theres only
one way to find out if it works, Doctor Weston locks the door to his room and
pulls out his black bag with a syringe, which is still full of his solution.
Carefully he pours his solution into another syringe mixed with the solution
Stan has been testing. He rolls up his sleeve, Id better call Paul first, Stan
sits on the bed by the phone, and they havent spoken since this virus thing
started. Paul knew this project would turn out bad; I should have listened to
him, Stan thinks as he dials the number. The phone rings and rings until
Stan starts to hang up when Paul finally answers. Hello dad, there is a long
silence. Well I thought you forgot about me, Paul says. Son I will never
forget about you, how are you doing? I am doing well; I met someone.
Hey Paul thats great, who is she, Stan asks. Its a girl I used to be in
college with. I am glad you found someone; the reason why I am calling, I
am sure you remember the feeding virus, Doctor Weston says. Oh yeah,
how could I forget, Paul frowns. Yes, but its destroyed by nowright?
Well, the plane that was taking the virus to be destroyed crashed near a city
named Rock Hill South Carolina. Now its killing people in the south and as
far west as California; Ive got to come up with an anti-dose, Weston pauses.
What about the anti-dose we developed, Paul asks. Ive been testing it on
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the computer but its not working, there only one thing I can do.I love you
son, Stan Weston says as he hangs up. Hey, dad wait a minute maybe I
can help you, Paul shouts. Doctor Weston turns his cell phone off.
With tears in his eyes Doctor Stan Weston takes off his shirt and picks
up the syringe. I created this virus, Ive got to end it, Stan extends his arm
hitting the inside of it with his other hand, right above the elbow. God
forgive me, the doctor jams the needle into his arm and pushes the plunger.
The green solution feels hot going into his body, now Stan turns his cell
phone back on to video his reaction, for several minutes Stan sits on the bed
waiting for something to happen.
Right when the doctor gets up to go to the bathroom it hits him; a
pain runs through his head like a jack hammer and Stan Weston becomes
dizzy. All the disoriented man can do to grab the sides of the sink to stay up.
Well I guess this is it, Stan says out loud. He stares at his reflection in the
mirror hoping nothing will happen, but suddenly the doctors upper and lower
jaw begins to expand, his teeth grow long and sharp. As he watches Stan
Westons eyes turn almost black but he can still see, it like wearing a pair of
dark shades. Oh my God what have I done, he screams passing out on the
bathroom floor.
The fifty nine year old doctor is out for eight hours until Doctor
Bridges becomes concerned and uses his key to get into his room. Doctor
Weston, Doctor Weston, are you alright, Allen shakes him. Stan gets up off
the bathroom floor and looks in the mirror; his face is back to normal. I
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wonder did the anti-dose work, he mumbles walking back into the other
room. What anti-dose, doctor what did you do? Bridges says looking at the
empty syringe on the floor. I tried the anti-dose on myself. Stan Weston
are you crazy, do you realize you could have killed yourself; I thought you
had a heart attack or something. What were you thinking? Allen Bridges
explodes. Come and let me examine you. But I feel fine Weston argues.
Now you know that does not mean anything you still could have the virus,
Allen finally gets Stan to sit still long enough to check him out. Open your
mouth, he holds his chin and looks at Stans teeth they look normal. Allen
takes a small light and shines it in each of Stans eyes and they also look
normal. How do you feel, Doctor Bridges asks. Feel fine, just a little dizzy.
We are going to have to run some tests, Doctor bridges says. Stan Weston
stares at him, Do you have any weapons in this complex. Yeah a few
why, Allen wonders what hes up to. I need you to go in the lab and get
the samples Sam Taylors blood, take them with you and bring back a loaded
weapon. Alright but you have to explain what youre doing before I give
you the gun, Bridges goes into the lab closing the door; he does as Stan
requests using another door to exit the lab, and down the hall he goes.
Doctor Stan Weston locks the door to his room pacing back and forth
waiting for his friend to return. He knows one of two things, the anti-dose
works, or he has the feeding virus and has to be killed. Allen returns a little
out of breath from running down the hallways, Ok explain your plan, he
yells through the now locked door. Alright heres the plan use your key to
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open the door while I stand on the other side of the room. Open up the
container with the blood, if I show any signs of the virus I want you to kill me
because I dont want to live like that, Stan Weston yells.
There is the sound of keys on a key chain and the door slowly opens,
Allen has the sample of blood out so Weston can see it. Nervously he steps
into the room but there is no reaction from Stan. Both men just stare at each
other for several minutes, Well doctor it looks like youre anti-dose worked,
Bridges steps further into the room. Yep finally.Stan Weston stop talking
and sniffs the air moving toward the blood. Doctor Weston, Doctor Weston
whats wrong? Very slowly the fifty nine year old man mouth changes and
his eyes turn coal black, he growls at Doctor Bridges. Before he knows it the
creature Stan has become is on top him and a single shot rings out. The
creator of the feeding virus is on the floor.
Its 1300 hours twelve days after the crash, at Fort Bragg and Colonel
Mathews is briefing the National Guard troops on the quarantine at Rock Hill
South Carolina. Everyone jumps to their feet when the Colonel enters the
room. At ease men..there is no easy way to say this so I want everyone to
pay attention. I am about to show some footage of what the Feeding virus
can do to a person, pay close attention because this is what youll be facing
in a few hours. The video starts, The man you see is Captain Sam Taylor,
and he was the co-pilot of the plane that crashed in Rock Hill. This plane was
carrying a chemical weapon called the Feeding Virus, watch what it can do,
the Colonel explains.
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The young soldiers sit and watch silently as the average clean-cut
Sam Taylors face changes, his mouth begins to expanding as his teeth grow,
and his eyes turn coal black. Oh man thats weird.you mean this really
happened, this looks like a low budget horror movie one solider says getting
everyone around him to laugh. The colonel nods, but is not amused by the
laughter. Sam uses his razor sharp teeth and rips into the corpse feeding on
the intestines. Man that is some weird shit, another solider blurts out. I
want all of you to understand once a person gets the virus they are not
human anymore. The best thing you can do is put them out of their misery
before they kill you, Colonel Mathews shows them the rest of the video.
The hardest part of this assignment, if there is no blood around people with
the virus look normal. So colonel how are we going to tell if they have the
virus or not, someone asks. Fresh blood, there will be containers of it at
each blockade, if theres any question test them then youll know for sure.
Alright thats the Feeding Virus; it can change a person into a
monster and back again without leaving any trace. Your orders are to contain
Rock hill dont let anyone leave, or enter the city, it must be contained at all
cost. Some of you will be stationed at the hospital; I want four snipers on the
roof, if you see anyone changing into one of these creatures, shoot to kill,
Colonel Mathews says. If anyone tries to leave the city that person will be
detained, tested and if they have a reaction, will be shot. This virus has the
potential of being nationwide in a matter of days, we have to contain it at
Rock Hill, the colonel pounds his fist on the podium hes standing in front of.
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I know this is a very difficult assignment, youll be equipped with stun guns
for anyone trying to leave. What if someone gets away from us and starts
to run? You are authorized to use deadly force, the colonel says with an
emotionless face. The soldiers start to whisper among themselves. Let me
say again, If you see someone changing as a result of the virus dont hesitate
use deadly force, it will probably be your only chance to stay alive, are there
any question, the colonel gives them all a hard stare.
Private First Class Glen Fields stands up and asks, So youre saying
we have to shoot innocent unarmed civilians? The colonel brings back the
picture of Sam Taylor after he has changed by the virus, Yes youll have to
shoot them unless want your mother or sister to end up like this. You have to
remember that once the virus takes over a persons body they are no longer
human. I didnt sign up for killing innocent people, Private Fields leaves the
room followed by five other soldiers. Colonel Mathews frowns. Now during
normal operations those men would be court- marshaled but since this is not
a normal emergency I am not going to do that. Is there anyone else that
would like to leave? Everyone else in the room just looks at each other but
they all stay.
At 1500 hours or three oclock the National Guard troops leave
Fayetteville North Carolina heading to Rock Hill South Carolina. In the city of
Rock Hill the police department is driving through the neighborhoods using
their car microphones telling people, Attention, attention, the city of Rock
Hill is now under quarantine, everyone needs to stay indoors as much as
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possible, and no one is permitted to leave the city until further notice, the
police officer says over and over. They cant do this to uscan they, Mr.
Blankenship asks other neighbors gathered in their front yards.
Sheriff Smith is driving James back to his mothers house when he
runs into one of the road blocks set up by the military. Hey sheriff, where
are you going? one of the soldiers asks. Sheriff Smith pulls out his wallet
and shows his ID. Ive got to take this boy back to his mother, we believe his
father was infected with the virus and ran off in the woods. The three
soldiers whisper among themselves for a few minutes, and finally say, Ok
sheriff go ahead.
As soon as the sheriffs patrol car stops in front of Jamess house, he
jumps out and runs to his mother who is standing out front waiting for him.
Oh thank God youre ok, Sandra says hugging James for a long time.
Thank you sheriff, has there been any word about my husband, she asks.
No ma-am, but as soon as we do Ill call, the sheriff says as he pulls off.
Come on in and let me fix you something to eat, Sandra heads straight to
the kitchen. I am not hungry mom. What about a glass of milk and some
cookies, she persists. James nods coughing as he goes to his room to play
video games. Are you catching a cold honey? He is so into his video game
now and does not respond.

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CHAPTER SIX
Sandra is always concerned when Mike goes hunting, but she was
really worried when he wanted to take James. Night begins to fall, Sandra is
very glad to have at least her son back at home, but every few minutes she
would go to the front window looking for her husband. Peggy said Mike
could have the virus, what am I going to do if he comes home and attacks
us, Sandra thinks. By ten oclock Sandra yells, Alright its time to go to bed
youve got school tomorrow, so turn that thing off. James continues playing
until he hears his mother coming up the hallway, then he jumps into bed
pulls the blankets up and pretends hes sleep. Sandra walks over to Jamess
bed pulls back the blankets and says, Now you know you have to take your
bath and put on your pajamas, if you cant do what I asks then you cant play
video games, Sandra says walking out the door. She does not see James get
angry and his eyes turn a dark shade of gray.
The night was quiet and restless for Sandra, she tosses and turns and
walks to window still looking for Mike. Sandra is up in the morning fixing
breakfast, its seven oclock James is usually up and dressed, but today hes
still in the bed. Sandra comes into his room and starts to disconnect the

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video game. James leaps out of bed and begs his mother, I promise Ill be
ready in ten minutes just dont take my games. Sandra is like most mothers
she feels sorry for her son she knows James misses his father so she doesnt
take his games.
The drive to school is quiet until James asks, Do you think dad is
coming back? Oh yes, I know he loves us, hell come back, Sandra fights
back the tears. Alright you have a good day in school and stay away from
that.Randy. His name is Randle mom. Ok Randle, stay away from him,
you guys are always fighting; youre never going to learn anything fighting
all the time, Sandra kisses James on the forehead. You seem really hot are
you feeling ok? James coughs several times, Yes mom I am fine, he does
not like to be babied in front of the guys.
There is a very long sidewalk leading to the school, James had to walk
in front of all his buddies and Randle is there. Oh James are you alright,
Randle tries to sound like Sandra. Knock it off pea brain. Oh no, the
students burst into a laugh. Who are you calling a pea brain, Randle jumps
up in Jamess face grabbing his clothes. Randle is nine years old but he
weighs one hundred and fifty pounds plus hes five foot tall. No one, James
says starting to cough. Get away from me coughing like that you might
have that virus or something, Randle pushes him. Yeah, I heard his daddy
got the virus and started eating a dead man, Burt, Randles buddy says.
Stop talking about my father, James jumps up in Burts face. Yeah or
what, Burt says with his fist balled up. Or Ill.. suddenly the bell rings.
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Lucky for you James .well see after school, Randle and Burt both have
sly grins.
Doctor Stan Weston body lays motionless on the floor, Allen Bridges
has two of his men place him in the bed. Allen has two of his other
technicians finishing up the wiring of a camera system in his room when Stan
Weston begins to wake up; the men quickly leave the room. How are you
feeling doctor, a voice echoes through the room. I have a headache; I
thought you killed me like I asked you to. Oh youre much too valuable for
that, weve got to find an anti-dose for this virus, and I need your help,
Doctor Bridges smiles. With both of us working together we should be able
to beat this thing. Ive wired a camera system so we can communicate as
well as see each other, this should save us time, so where do we start now,
Bridges asks. Well Ive already tested the anti-dose solutions on Sams
blood and nothing worked so we need to figure why the formula is not strong
enough. I really need my notes, Stan looks for his bags. Your bags are in
the closet, but they are empty. Ive taken your notes and organized them by
dates of each test, look over on that table, Doctor Allen Bridges explains.
Stan Weston is still trying to regain his balance so he hobbles over to the
table on the other side of the room. Man thats very efficient doctor, thank
you. Alright we dont have a lot of time so lets get to work, Doctor
Bridges is hoping they can find a cure soon.
Even though Stan Weston is confined to his room he and Doctor
Bridges are hard at work when Allens phone rings, its his secretary. Youve
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got two men here to see you doctor, Martha says. I dont have time to see
anyone right now, tell them to come back later, Allen shouts. But they are
from the FAA, and they have a package for you. Alright, send them in, the
doctor tries to straighten his desk. Whats going on? Stan Weston asks only
able to see whats on the monitor. Oh I forgot to tell you while you were out
a jet liner crashed right outside of Dallas killing one hundred forty nine
people. The FAA officials found a cell phone that video recorded everything
that happened on the plane before it crashed. Do you think it was it
terrorist? No I dont think so we saw no signs of an explosive being used,
but what they saw was nothing like they have ever seen before, Allen signs
for the package and opens it. Next he takes a cable and connects the cell
phone to his computer. Hey I want to watch, do you have anything bigger
than my computer screen to watch it on, Stan Weston asks. Yes, there is a
monitor right there, Allen says. Stan looks all over for a computer monitor,
I dont see a monitor, theres nothing here but this big TV. Stan that is
your monitor; Ive got to get you updated on technology, Doctor Bridges
laughs. Yeah whatever just turn the thing on, Doctor Stan Weston does not
like to be criticized. Just push the video button on the front of the TV.
Wow, now thats a huge computer monitor, Weston is impressed. Ok let
me switch on my web cam and now we can see each other. Doctor bridges
has everything ready.
The video footage shows where stewardess Robin Atkins sees
Nathans bandage seeping blood and starts to have a reaction. Oh my God,
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their infected, Doctor Bridges says. Stan Weston just stands there silently
watching with tears in his eyes. Oh no Iris, he mumbles. Where did this
flight come from? Doctor Bridges opens a manila folder that came with the
phone, This flight was coming from San Francisco California. The virus is
spreading faster than I thought, look for a woman named Iris Carter on that
list, Stan Weston paces back and forth. Bridges searches up and down the
passenger list, There is no one on the list by that name. Well doctor weve
got a bigger problem, Iris Carter who was infected with the feeding virus in
Rock Hill South Carolina, went to California and infected people there, and
probably the people on the plane, now she could be anywhere, Weston
explains. Doctor Bridges can only stand there with a worried look on his face.
I wonder how things are going back in Rock Hill; I need to get a hold to
Colonel Mathews, Doctor Weston says.
Later that afternoon Doctor Stan Weston calls Colonel Mathews, Well
doctor, I was wondering what happened to you, the colonel has to talk
above the sound gun shots and screaming. What in the world is going on
there, Stan shouts. I just outside the Piedmont hospital it has been overrun
by the infected, its total kayos here, the colonel says, Where are you? I
am in isolation at the CDC in Atlanta; I tried some of the anti-dose on myself
hoping to speed up the process, Stan explains. Well did it work? Stan
become quiet, Not exactly, but were close. Thats good because Rock Hill
is going to be too far gone soon, the colonel says.

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Stan Weston sits in front of his computer monitor with his head in his
hands. Whats wrong, Allen asks. The hospital in Rock Hill has been
overrun by infected. Oh God no..that means we have to work harder and
faster, Allen says hoping its not too late for that town.
Its less than a week before Christmas, some of the Rock Hill
residences are angry because they cant leave the city to cut Christmas trees
in Rock Hill Forest. This has been a Christmas tradition for many families for
decades. I cant believe the government is not letting us get Christmas
trees this year, it wont be the same, Mrs. Cromwell complains. I am sorry
ma-am but the city is under quarantine no one can leave, one of the
soldiers at the blockade says. But were just going to the forest to cut
Christmas trees, Regina Cromwell says. Ma-am we cannot let anyone
leave, we have our orders, the three soldiers move together taking their
weapons off safety. Oh so you would shoot us, the feisty old lady shouts.
Mrs. Cromwell is seventy five years old, her husband passed away two years
ago and now she has to struggle to survive. She just wants to make this
Christmas special for her grandkids. Mrs. Cromwells husband cut her
Christmas trees until he died, but now her oldest grandson Marvin has taken
over the job. He is determined to get his grandma a Christmas tree; he
whispers something in grannys ear. She winks and nods her head.
You know its a shame you men would treat an old lady like this,
youre supposed to protect us, not treating us like the enemy, Mrs. Cromwell
tries to slip past the soldiers and they quickly grab her. While all of this is
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going on Marvin moves past the blockade and the soldiers, and takes off
running toward the forest. One of the soldiers sees him and shouts, Stop or
Ill shoot. The young man just keeps running. Hes just going to get a
Christmas tree, Whats the big deal, Marvin thinks. The terrible echo of a
gunshot fills the area, and the boy falls to the ground. You bastards; you
killed my grandson, Regina Cromwell yells. Two of the soldiers go out and
bring Marvin back to the blockade; the bullet just grazed the young mans
leg. Mrs. Cromwell is furious as she helps Marvin to her car and speeds to the
hospital. I dont know why shes angry at least Kevin shot him and not one
of us. Yeah, you would have killed him, Dwain says to Lawrence one of the
soldiers.
Jill Davis has been reporting the news for five years now, but seeing
seventeen year old Marcus being shot at point blank range, plus seeing the
massacre on the school bus, has really bothered her. Jill has not been able to
sleep, and she has been coughing a lot lately. Young Ms. Davis has even
started missing work; this is something she never used to do. Mr. Southern I
am not feeling well; I need a day, ok, Jill says. But Jill weve got an
emergency going on here, plus I have a scoop that the man that mutated the
body at the hospital, and hung himself because of the virus, we need you. I
am sorry sir, Ill be back tomorrow, Jill says quickly hanging up. Mr. Southern
is really beginning to worry about Jill.
The three infected boys that mutilated some of their classmates and
put everyone else in a state of panic are now lost in the woods looking for
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some type of food, and to get out of the cold. They search for days but all
Brandon, Shan, and Charles can find are berries. Their lust for blood is gone
for the moment; they now look normal and need regular food. While roaming
through Rock Hill Forest they stumble onto a ranch its Jean Harris parents
place. Her father is outside in the back of the house deep frying a turkey for
the holidays, and the smell attracts them. The Harriss moved to Rock Hill to
get away and have the peace of the country. Robert has just retired and has
to finds things to do to keep busy, today hes replacing some of the shingles
on the shed out back. He has to use his hand saw to cut the wood because
his power saw is broken. While cutting the last board Roberts hand slips and
he cuts his finger.
Inside Betty Harris is doing her usual cooking for the holidays, she
was expecting Jean and Rod over for their usual Christmas dinner, but sadly
she remembers Rod is gone. Suddenly the doorbell rings. Betty opens it to
find three young boys looking cold and hungry. Excuse me ma-am, but
weve been lost in the woods for a couple of days and was wondering if you
could spare some food, one of them says. Betty Harris feels sorry for them,
Sure come on in and wash your hands the bathroom is right down the hall.
One by one they file in looking around inside. They all go into the bathroom
together giving Betty curious stares as they pass her.
Mr. Harris rushes in the house and pushes his way into the bathroom
until he realizes that the boys are in there, Oh I didnt know we had
company, the blood is running down Roberts arm as he quickly goes to the
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other bathroom. All three boys get the scent of blood, Come on now get a
hold of yourselves we cant have an outbreak, throw water on your faces and
hold your breath, do whatever, but dont let them see you like this, Brandon
whispers. He is the older of the three boys and the other two look up to him.
Mr. Harris quickly cleans up his finger puts a Band-Aid on it and rushes back
up to the kitchen. Who are those boys, he asks his wife. They came to the
door asking for food; I couldnt turn them away, Betty explains.
Brandon, Shan, and Charles are now in the bathroom holding their
breath trying not to have a reaction. Luckily the smell of blood is gone
because Robert Harris rinsed his finger in alcohol. Finally, about the time the
couple gets worried about them the three boys step out of the bathroom
looking hungry for regular food. Ok boys have a seat weve got ham, green
bean casserole, mashed potatoes, fired chicken, and apple pie. Betty has
been cooking for three days getting ready for Christmas so there is extra of
everything; the boys dig in getting large portions of everything. It looks like
they havent eaten in a while, Betty smiles for a minute but quickly frowns.
Hey wait a minute; we have to say grace before you eat in my house.
Charles and Shan immediately bow their heads but Brandon gives Betty a
hard stare. That goes for you too son, bow your head or go outside while the
others eat, Betty says with her hands on her hips.
Now Mama dont be too hard on them, we havent even found out
their names, Mr. Harris says sitting down at the table. Ok you go first,
Robert points at Shan. My name is Shan and I am seventeen years old. My
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name is Charles and I am seventeen years old. Now everyone is looking at
Brandon who is gulping down his food. Whats everybody staring at me
for? They want to know your name, Shan hunches him with his elbow. My
name is Brandon I am eighteen years old and this is so totally grade school.
Mr. Harris gives Brandon a hard stare, when he raises his hand to take off his
cap the Band-Aid has come off his finger and it has started to bleed again.
Brandon, who is sitting the closest to him jumps up and runs to the bathroom
quickly shutting the door, Whats wrong with him, Betty asks. Oh he has
not been feeling well I am sure it will pass, Shan tries to explain looking
nervous.
Inside the bathroom Brandon has already started to change, he has
to put his hand over his mouth so his screams cant be heard. The young
mans upper and lower jaws expand to make room for the enormous teeth.
Brandon tries his best to fight it throwing water on his face and holding his
breath for as long as he can, but nothing helps. Back at the table Shan and
Charles take small bites of food and nervously keep looking at the bathroom
door.
Several minutes past, Robert and Betty become more curious about
their guest and start asking Shan and Charles questions. How did you guys
get all the way out here, I didnt see any cars around, Mr. Harris asks. Oh
we were hiking and the group got away from us, Shan keeps looking at the
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attack the couple. Do you boys live in Rock Hill, Betty asks. They both nod
their heads, still trying to hide their nervousness.
Finally twenty minutes later Brandon emerges from the bathroom
looking normal. Shan and Charles breathe a sigh of relief. Are you alright,
Betty asks first. Yeah, it must be something I ate, Brandon says looking at
his buddies. I bet your parents are worried sick about you, finish your meal
and my husband will take you back to town, Betty starts the dishes. While
all three boys finish their meal they take small bits now because the cut on
Mr. Harriss finger is deeper than he thought and the Band-Aid is not holding
back the blood, his finger is bleeding again. The three monsters minds are on
fresh blood now, they all are staring at Mr. Harriss hand.
Well young men its been a pleasure to meet all of you, I am sure Ill
see you in town somewhere, Betty hugs all three of them. Robert pulls his
turkey out of the deep fryer and says, Ok boys load up, one of you can sit in
front with me. His truck has an extended cab so Shan and Charles quickly
sit in the back. Ill sit up front, Brandon says with a sly grin. Silence fills the
truck as they ride toward town, Brandon carefully watches Roberts finger the
blood has turned the tan colored bandage a dark red, and the young man is
about to have a reaction. Right when Robert enters the dark part of the
woods Brandon changes, reaching up and biting the poor mans finger
completely off, blood sprays all over Brandons face and he loves it. Robert
screams, trying to keep his truck on the road with one hand. What in the
world, Robert says looking at the monster that is sitting right next to him.
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He tries to scream, but just an animal when it is going for a quick kill,
Brandon bits through his neck silencing him for good. The truck swerves off
the road into a small ditch. Shan and Charles have also changed but they
wait to see what their leader does. Brandon grabs Robert by his clothes and
drags him out of the truck into the woods, with Shan and Charles following
behind. The three monsters feed on Robert Harris until there is nothing left
but his clothes and bones.
The boys take Roberts wallet and credit cards, now changing back to
normal, they have to struggle to push the pick-up truck out of the ditch, but
they are finally on the way to town. Hey man, we have blood all over our
clothes, Shan wipes his mouth with the sleeve of his shirt. Youre right lets
go shopping, After a few minutes of driving Brandon spots a road block just
outside of Rock Hill. Shan you and Charles take off your shirts and give
them to me, Brandon says. The two boys do what he asks and Brandon uses
them to wipe the blood off his face, Shan and Charles do likewise.
Hey guys no one is allowed to enter the city, one of the soldiers on
the road block says. Look man weve got to get my dads truck back, we
stayed out a little too late and hell kill me, come on give me a break,
Brandon pleas. You better be worried about one of those infected guys
getting a hold of you, one of the soldiers looks in the drivers window staring
at Shan and Charles who sit quietly in the back of the truck. Yeah I heard
they were pretty mean, Brandon smiles. The three young soldiers gather in
a group trying to decide on what to do, they looking at Brandon and the gang
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as they whisper among themselves. Hes not trying to get out of town, just
let him go. Dont you think we should check them for the virus first, one of
them suggests. No, I am fooling with that right now, just let them go, the
lead solider says and they all agree. Shan and Charles sit nervously in the
back seat hoping things dont get out of hand. Alright go ahead, one of the
soldiers raises the arm that blocks the road.
Over in Rock Hill, Jill Davis is having a hard time staying focused on
her job, she has been taking off from work, reporting the attacks seemed fun
at first, but all the death is getting to her; plus Jill feels like shes catching
something. Her boss is pressuring Jill to produce more stories so she decides
to call Sheriff Smith to get some leads. Hey Bobby its Jill, I want to ask you
something Oh really, whats on your mind? I have not been feeling well
lately, Ive been missing work, my boss in on me to produce, can you help
me with some leads, Jill asks. Bobby is quiet for a moment, I thought you
were keeping up with that stuff. Like I said I havent been feeling well.hey
if I remember correctly you still owe me a dinner, why dont you pick me up
at eight oclock, Jill laughs. Are you serious? Of course I am serious, so do
we have a date? Yes Ill be there, Bobby rushes to the shower.
Just like their date before Bobby shows up in his personal truck
dressed in jeans and a sweat shirt, but he still has his badge on his belt. It
has been twelve days since the plane crash and Sheriff Bobby Smith is
exhausted, all the past events are taking their toll on him, all Bobby wants to

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do is relax. Bobby takes Jill to Outback again but this time they get to stay
and enjoy the meal.
Look Bobby I know you and I dont see eye to eye on things, but I
need your help, can you give some information on the last few attacks, Jill
takes a sip of water. I am surprised that reporting the attacks has lost its
thrill, you seemed so in to it at first, Bobby frowns. I was at first, but like I
said I havent been feeling well lately, Jill starts to cough a lot. Bobby gives
her a hard stare. Youre not catching that virus are you? No of course not,
come on this is my smokers cough, Jill shouts. Bobby notices the area
around Jills eyes has been really dark lately; Sure Ill help you. Great now
I need a cigarette, Jill begins searching for a cigarette. Bobby really looks at
her for the first time in over a year since they broke up. He sees the woman
he started to fall in love with, I know what you need, but it not a cigarette,
Bobby says with a sly grin. Jill laughs out loud, Bobby youre something else,
but youre probably right, she gives him a sexy smile taking a sip of wine.
The couple enjoy a delicious meal and talk for about an hour until Jill
says, Do you want to come to my place? Bobbys smile is the answer she
needs, he pays for the meal and leaves a tip, and helps Jill with her coat; Jill
enjoys his touch gently moving close to him. When they get outside it has
started snowing hard, but they dont seem to mind. After twelve days of total
kayos Sheriff Bobby Smith is finally starting to relax. As Bobby drives he
makes quick glances at Jill, she smiles seeming to enjoy the extra attention.
Jill has always been a stubborn selfish woman that always wanted her way,
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but Bobby sees a different woman now, her personality is beginning to match
her beauty. Jill is five foot tall with a perfectly shaped body, brown hair,
chestnut colored eyes and a captivating smile.
They drive for about fifteen minutes, Jill lives in a very nice apartment
complex, Just make a quick right up ahead, she has moved since her and
Bobby dated last. Bobbys truck slides a little when they turn because the
snow is changing to ice, the temperature is dropping. Some of the people in
the complex have put up Christmas lights around their doors and windows. I
think thats nice, Jill says as they pass. What the lights; I remember the
first Christmas my wife and I had, we could not afford Christmas lights, so we
sat and sung Christmas carols all night, in front of a naked Christmas tree.
Bobby explains. Jill smiles at him, Lets not talk about the past tonight.
Bobby nods in agreement as they get out of the truck and track through the
snow to her front door. Jill has a panicked look on her face when she rambles
through her purse looking for her keys. The snow really makes it seem like
Christmas, Bobby says holding his hand out so the flakes can fall into it.
Yeah it does, but its a shame the virus.. Oh now we agreed not to talk
about the virus tonight, lets just relax, Bobby puts his arm around Jills
waist and he kicks his shoes on the side door frame to remove the snow.
Thats a neat trick where did you learn that, Jill asks. When I was younger
my parents lived in Chicago where there was plenty of snow, my father
taught me that trick, Bobby helps Jill take her coat still admiring her body.
Jill has not seen anyone else since her and Bobby was together, she enjoys
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his touch. They stand gazing into each others eyes. Suddenly they are
kissing passionately, which is a long breathless affair, finally Jill stops him,
Hey slow down buddy, do you know how to build a fire? Jill asks. Bobby
frowns, Thats what I am trying to do. Jill smiles at him, her eyes say she
wants him. Yeah sure, Ive had a fireplace before. He puts a few logs on the
grate and asks, Wheres the matches. Oh the matches.are on.the top
of the mantle, it takes her a few minutes to remember. Jill goes to the
kitchen to get some wine, Do you like white or red wine? Ill take either
one just surprise me, Bobby sticks the long match into the pile of logs and
the orangey red flames gives a warm feeling to the room. I see you have a
nice Christmas tree this year, did you decorate it yourself, Bobby asks
looking at the ointment he gave her last year. Why did you keep this
ointment, I figured you would have thrown it away since I gave it to you.
Now why would I do that the ointment is beautiful, but I thought we were
not going to talk about the past, Jill brings in two glasses of wine one white
and one red. Bobby takes the red wine. Lets make a toast, Jill says with a
gleam in her eye. Alright to more beautiful times, Bobby smiles as they
touch glasses.
Ok I am going to slip on something a little more comfortable, you
can turn on the TV, Jill walks to the bedroom. Bobby tries to entertain
himself with a boring movie for a few minutes, but when Jill returns all of his
attention is on her. The beautiful woman has on a sexy red nightgown that is
very short revealing Jills sexy legs. The gown is practically see-through and
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as Jill walks her large breast bounce with every step. Wow, Ive always
known you were beautiful, but we have been nagging at each other for so
long; Ive forgotten how beautiful you really are. Bobby pulls Jill close and
kisses her, this time she does not resists. Their kisses start out short and
affectionate, but quickly turn into long breathless affairs. Bobby and Jill are
both aroused, they look into each others eyes for a moment, and suddenly
become like high school kids having sex for the first time, fumbling to get out
of their clothes. Jill is complete naked first while Bobby struggles to get his
pants off. Here let me help you with that, she says in a sexy voice. She
slowly unzips his pants and looking at the bulge in his underwear.
Now that Bobby is undressed Jill can see hes more than ready for
her, she lays on the sofa and puts one of her legs up on its back. Come on
baby give it to me, she whispers. Slowly Bobby moves inside of her and Jills
eyes open wide and she moans from the pleasure of him. Give it all to me
baby, Jill says again causing Bobby to continue. The yellow and orange light
from the fireplace glows on their naked bodies as Jill and Bobby make love
for the rest of the night.
Twelve days after the plane crash the Piedmont Hospital in Rock Hill
has standing room only inside, plus people are standing outside waiting to
get in. The National Guard troops are there trying to keep order, but they are
quickly being overwhelmed. There have been so many people infected with
the virus they seem to outnumber the lucky ones who have not. Hundreds of
other people that have the beginning symptoms of coughing and headaches
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are also at the hospital looking for something to stop this nightmare. John
Harper the hospital director has to call other hospitals for extra staff to help
with the emergency. The nurses and doctors are exhausted most of them
have been working twenty four hour shifts with only a few hours break in
between them, this epidemic is getting worse by the minute.
The doctors have separated the patients, the ones who only have
symptoms of the virus like headache and coughing are left inside the
emergency room lobby. But the patients that are about to have an outbreak
are placed in an area outside guarded by security, and they are carefully
watched. Mark Tucker a construction worker sits in the emergency room
lobby coughing violently, and everyone sitting by him either stands up or
move to another seat. The virus is so bad the nurses and doctors are wearing
masks and gloves to protect themselves.
Amy White a nurse who volunteered from another hospital has just
finished stitching up a mans finger, and some of the blood got on her white
coat, but shes so tired Amy does not realize it. They young twenty five year
old is hungry so she goes to the lobby to ask her friend Monica about lunch.
All of a sudden Mark Tucker stops coughing and sniffs the air, he gets up
pacing back and forth screaming from the pain in his head. Mark goes down
to his knees and his mouth begins to stretch making room for his very large
teeth. The people sitting close by jump up running for their lives. Once a
person gets the virus they are much stronger and faster than normal, Mark
jumps over a few sections of seats and grabs Amy by the throat. The
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emergency room lobby is in chaos now as Mark uses his claw-like fingers to
rip open Amys neck, blood sprays everywhere. Just as Mark starts to feed
two security guards burst into the room and shoot him several times. The
Piedmont Hospital has become a hot spot, now hundreds of infected are
gathered outside trying to get in the smell of blood is drawing them. The
snipers on the roof are ordered to shoot anyone they is having a reaction to
the virus, and now that seems to be every other person. Its like shooting
fish in a barrel, Sargent Danny Jackson says, hes enjoying taking head
shots at the infected men and women. Hey man I see a little girl out there; I
cant kill a child, Coty says. Billy Gibson fires at the girl, but misses shes a
little too quick. Hey man when you got the shot take it, remember what the
colonel said, Its them or us and our kids, Billy snaps at Coty. Once the
snipers started killing the people having a reaction, the other infected have
plenty to feed on.
As night falls crowds and crowds of infected begin to gather around
the hospital they can smell the blood inside and will stop at nothing until
they get it. There are eight other National Guardsmen on the lower of the
hospital, and all they can do is watch wonder if they can hold back that many
of them. Its estimated that three thousand infected have gathered on every
side of the hospital, and it looks like they are planning to storm them soon.
At two oclock in the morning the soldiers and few remaining hospital
staff are awakened by the sound of breaking of glass, the infected are
throwing bricks through all the windows. The soldiers open fire but most of
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the infected are hiding behind cars, and a large bus in the parking lot. The
flurry of bricks and steel pipes continue until every glass window and door is
broken. Even the soldiers are worried now; they wait for what looks to be
their last stand. The infected wait until right before dawn and they come
about twelve thousands of them, with guns blazing the brave men try to stop
these creatures, but there is just too many of them. Desperately the soldiers
call for help but never get a response.
Sargent Mason decides to call his commander for instructions,
Sargent Mason calling Colonel Mathews, come in please. This is Colonel
Mathews whats your status? Sirwe are seriously outnumbered, there
are hundreds maybe thousands of infected surrounding the hospital, what
should we do, Mason asks. Son you were in the briefing, hold your
position, Colonel Mathews hears rapid gunfire and the sounds of people
screaming. In a matter of minutes the hospital is overrun, the soldiers and
remaining staff quickly become food. There is only one survivor; Director
John Harper has locked himself in his office praying the monsters dont break
in. John called the police, but they are busy trying to deal with all the other
attacks around the city, no one can help him.
The following morning Jill has a big smile on her face while she is in
the kitchen cooking breakfast; Bobby is in the shower. Jill can hear Bobbys
cell phone ringing in the bedroom; she picks it up and takes it to him. Well it
looks like your down time is over sheriff, she hands Bobby the phone. This
is Sheriff Smith, Bobby says as he dries off. Hey sheriff, I hate to disturb
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you, but there is another disturbance at the Piedmont Hospital, Peggy says.
Alright give me a few minutes and Ill be there, Bobby knows what Jills
reaction is going to be. Whats going on, Jill quickly asks. Theres been
another attack at the hospital; do you want to come along? Well you
promised to help me get some of these stories so I guess this is my chance,
Jill puts her arm around him. You know there may be some hope for us yet,
Bobby says rushing to get dressed.
Out in California Iris Carter rents a 2011 Ford Tarsus to make her trip
back to Rock Hill. She throws her bags in the trunk and heads east, the car
rides like a dream, and Iris takes interstate 580 out of San Francisco, to
interstate 5 south, which will lead to interstate 40 east. Iris buys a long black
wig and sunglasses hoping she can get across country without being
recognized. Its a long lonely ride, but it gives the scared confused woman a
chance to think, and try to figure out what to do next. Iris makes it to a town
called Needles California, where she stops for gas.
Iris gets out she slides her credit card and begins filling her car. An
old man is standing right outside the front door staring at her. Even though
Iris is wearing a wig and sunglasses her body still gets a lot of attention. You
know its not safe for a pretty young lady to be traveling alone at night, the
old man says. For a moment Iris forgets shes infected and feels human
again trying to ward off an attacker. Am not alone; Ive got my two friends
with me, she smiles. Who might that be sugar? That would be my friends
Smith and Weston, Iris pats her purse. The grin on the old mans face
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quickly leaves and he has nothing else to say. Iris laughs to herself, that line
has gotten her out of a lot of sticky situations, but with the feeding virus in
her, its the man that will need the Smith and Weston.
Iris notices a small diner next to the gas station so she decides to get
something to eat, and relax a bit. As soon as she walks in everything seems
to stop, and every eye is on her. This diner is visited by most of the people in
the area, so whenever a stranger shows they get the same treatment. Iris is
worried that someone might recognize her so she keeps on the black wig and
the sun glasses. She saw a state troopers car drive past after she walked in,
so Iris knows they will probably be coming there soon. Hello my name is
Alice, what will you be drinking today, a tall heavy-set woman asks. Alice
Green has been pouring coffee in this dinner for fifteen years; she knows the
difference between a traveler and someone on the run. Give me water and
sweat tea, Iris says looking over the menu. As Alice starts to walk away Iris
asks, How far is it to Flagstaff Arizona? Oh about one hundred forty five
miles probably a couple of hours, depending on how you drive, are you from
Flagstaff, Alice tries to keep Iris talking. No I am from South Carolina, Iris
tries to keep her voice down. South Carolina.man youre a long way from
home, what brought you all the way out here, if you dont mind me asking.
Iris gets really nervous and has to think of something. Oh I was visiting
relatives in San Francisco. San Francisco, I was there once.. Excuse
me. Alice, but I am in a hurry, Iris frowns. I am sorry do you want me to
go ahead and take your order, Alice takes out her ticket book. Yes, give me
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scrambled eggs, toast, and bacon. While Iris is drinking her sweat tea she
notices several men staring at her. Good looks can be a curse sometimes,
Iris mumbles. One old man just keeps staring at her, after a few minutes he
comes to Iriss table. Dont I know you? The man has obviously been
drinking, but Iris does not know what to say. No, I am sorry you dont know
me; I am not from around here, Iris tries to remain calm. Ive seen you
before somewhere, the old man stumbles away from her table and out the
door, still looking back at her.
Here you go ma-am, Alice brings Iriss meal and the ticket. The old
man has made Iris very nervous so she eats and watches him closely. He
steps out the front door still mumbling something about Iris. There is
newspapers stand right outside the door; Her she is right here, the old man
shouts to some customers coming in the diner. Fear grips Iris all over as she
realizes her picture must be on the front page of the newspaper, she knows
the police will be here any minute. Iris quickly pulls a twenty dollar bill out of
her wallet and lays it on the table, grabs her purse and runs to the restroom.
The young womans heart is beating so hard it feels like she is having a heart
attack; Iris desperately looks for way out of the bathroom. Theres got to be
a window here somewhere, Iris finally finds light coming from behind a dark
green curtain in the far corner. She pushes and pushes but the old window
wont budge, she frantically looks for something to break the window with.
Out in the diner Alice is asking customers where Iris went. She went toward
the restroom, one woman says. Hey young lady are you in there, Alice
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shouts. Iris panics taking off one of her shoes and breaking the glass of the
small window. Iris throws her purse out the small opening first and uses one
of her shoes to knock off the remaining pieces of glass. Now slowly she
maneuvers her body through the window. Hey Iris are you ok, Alice shouts
trying to open the door. Ill have to go get the spare key, Alice rushes off to
her office. Iris has everything except her cute butt though the window, and
there is the sound of keys at the bathroom door. She inhales and pulls with
all her might. The bathroom door finally opens, Alice is standing there
looking for Iris, and a group of people have gathered around the restroom
door wondering whats going on, there is the sound of squealing tires out
front, Iris got away.

CHAPTER SEVEN
Back in Rock Hill Brandon, Shan, and Charles are at the mall buying
everything from clothes, to skateboards. The three boys are in a video store
and have picked out four hundred dollars of video games but the store
manager is getting suspicious. Whose credit card is this? Oh its my
fathers, Brandon says boldly. Ok just wait right here, the middle-aged
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man goes to the back and calls the bank, who calls the Harris residence. Yes
this is the First Nation Bank; I just want to let you know your son is at the
mall buying four hundred dollars worth of video games. There must be
some mistake; we dont have a son, only a daughter, Mrs. Harris says. How
did these guys get my husbands credit card? More than likely it was
stolen, once we get more information, we will let you know, the young man
from the bank says.
I am sorry sir, but this credit card belongs to a Mr. Robert Harris, how
did you get it? the store manager asks. Oh Mr. Harris said we could use it,
Brandon insists. Ok I am going to need to see some ID. Charles and Shan
become really nervous but Brandon says, Alright I left it in my car, Ill be
right back. Brandon and the boys quickly leave the video store, and the
manager calls the sheriff.
While Sheriff Smith and Jill get to the Piedmont Hospital it is
completely surrounded by thousands of infected, they are feeding on the few
brave souls who are trying to fight them. The sheriff gets another phone call
from Peggy. Its me again..now I am getting calls about some teenage
boys at the mall using someone stolen credit card. Ive got some bad
news.the Piedmont Hospital has been overrun, Bobby says trying to keep
it together. There is a long silence, Peggy did you hear me, he asks. Yes,
sheriff.I am sorry but one of my friends used to work there, Peggys words
are broken as she begins to cry. Ok Peggy, you said something about credit
cards at the mall, I am headed over there right now, and Bobby tries to
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change the subject. Oh, one more thing, Mrs. Harris called and said the
three boys showed up at their ranch, she fed them, and her husband took
them into town, she has not heard from Robert since. Do you think these are
some of the boys from the school bus? Peggy asks. Yes I guess it could be
possible, were going to check the road leading to the Harris place, Ill call
you if I find anything, Sheriff Smith says. Sheriff. You said we, do you
have someone with you, Peggy already knows the answer. Yeah, Jill is
tagging along. Peggy really likes Sheriff Bobby Smith, but does not want to
come between him and Jill. As you heard I have another stop, do you want
to tag along, Bobby asks Jill. Yes, these will make great stories, Jill smiles.
It takes thirty minutes to get from the Piedmont hospital to the roads
leading into Rock Hill Forest and the Harris place. Bobby puts on the flashers
of the cruiser, but he has to really slow down, even though its still daylight,
the woods are very dark. He uses a spot light which the sheriff gets Jill to
hold and shine as he drives. They spot a couple of foxes, some raccoons, and
even a deer, but there is no sign of Mr. Harris. As the sun starts to set the air
gets cool, Bobby is about to quit from the evening when he sees what looks
like steam coming from the brush just up ahead. Shine the light right over
there, Bobby points. Once they get close enough a pile of torn clothes have
steam coming off of them. The sheriff stops the car, Bobby and Jill get out,
and just as they suspected there are the remains of Robert Harris. The only
possible evidence is his bones, with just a little flesh on them, a pair of false
teeth, and eye glasses. So the three boys we are looking for are infected,
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Jill finally says as they stare at the remains. Yes, that whats so strange
about this virus, people can be infected but youll never know it until its too
late, Bobby frowns.
Back in California at the diner the police finally show up. I am
looking for someone named Alice, one of the officers says as they walk
inside. I am Alice..let me see some ID. Both men look at each other and
shake their heads pulling out their wallets with the badges and ID. Alice
takes a long look at their credentials, I apologize, but you know there are a
lot a fakes in the area. Alright did this woman come in your diner, the older
officer holds up a picture of Iris Carter. Alice strains to see, It could be her,
but the woman that came in here had on dark glasses and black wig. Did
she say anything to you? Yes, she said she was South Carolina and she was
visiting friends in San Francisco. Why are you looking for her, Alice had to
ask. Its believed that she has a very deadly and contagious virus, the
officers say. Oh my God.and she was in here, why didnt you say that
earlier, Alice quickly takes Iriss plate of food and other dishes to the kitchen
to have them washed. The two police officers just stand and watch in
amazement.
Ok, is there anything else we need to know about her, Alice says as
she wipes down the table Iris sat at. Yes Iris Carter is wanted for murder.
Alice cant believe it. Who did this this sweat woman kill. We think Iris
killed a woman at a hotel in San Francisco, she mutated her body, the older
officer explains. No..Iris looked so sweat and innocent. Well sometimes
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looks can be deceiving, but if she contacts you or if you see her again, please
give us a call, the officer says handing Alice a card.
Peggy, this is Sheriff Smith weve found Robert Harris remains over
here on highway 215, you probably need a bus for the remains. Oh my
God, what happened to him? It looks like he was attacked by someone who
is infected with the virus. Oh no poor Mrs. Harris, someone needs to tell
her, Peggy says. Bobby frowns and looks at Jill, Do you want me to come?
Bobby has a look of desperation. Yeah, I think you need me right now, Jill
rubs his back.
The drive to the Harris ranch is a quiet one, Bobby has never liked to
give the bad news of a death to anyone, but he seems to be doing a lot of
that lately. Mrs. Harris is looking out the picture window when they pull up.
Bobby and Jill only stand on the front porch for a few minutes after pushing
the doorbell. Betty Harris answers the door with tears already in her eyes she
knows the news is bad. Hello Mrs. Harris, may we come in, Bobby asks.
Yes, you know youre always welcome here sheriff, whos your partner?
Oh this is Jill Davis shes a reporter for the newspaper..Mrs. Harris I am
afraid I have some bad news, Sheriff Smith takes a deep breath. Its Robert
isnt it, she tries to be strong, but breaks down and Jill comes over to
comfort her. What happened to him, Mrs. Harris asks. Those three boys
that you let into your home were infected with the virus, they attacked and
killed Mr. Harris, Sheriff Smith explains. Thats a shame those seemed like
such nice boys, Betty has to sit down. These boys where did they come
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from, Jill asks. Well they said they were hiking in the woods and got lost,
they were hungry so I feed them, and Robert Betty burst into tears
again. What kind of vehicle did your husband have, Bobby takes out a
small notepad. It was a 2010 Ford truck, black a F150 I think. Would you
happen to have the tag number? Bobby really feels sorry for the old woman.
Betty gets up and walks into the dining room and pulls out one of the
drawers to her china cabinet, Heres the number right here. Great now we
can be looking for you husbands truck. I am very sorry for your loss; if there
is anything I can do just call Peggy, Sheriff Smith shakes Bettys hand and
hugs her. Jill hugs her as well.
Once Sheriff Smiths patrol car gets back to Rock Hill him and Jill
slowly cruse through the shopping center parking lot looking for the truck
that belongs to a Mr. Harris, You dont think these guys would still be
around here do you, Jill ask. Remember these are teenagers who are
probably feeling pretty cocky right about now, they think they got away with
killing Mr. Harris, taking his truck and credit cards, so yes the boys might still
be here; lets go talk to the video manager, Bobby says.
Hello I am Sheriff Smith, Bobby extends his hand as they walk into
the small crowded store. Hey sheriff, I am Simon Parks the manger here,
he hands the sheriff a credit card. Can you describe these boys, Jill gets
out a note pad. Well the first two were average height and build, one had
brown hair and the other had red hair. But the taller one they called him
Brandon, he seemed to be the leader. When I told him he needed ID he
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calmly walked out with the other two following, Simon explains. What did
this Brandon look like, Sheriff Smith asks. Oh he was tall; Id say six foot,
thin with black hair. Did these boys behave strangely in any kind of way,
Bobby asks. No, they acted like teenagers, Simon starts pricing some
videos. Where any of them coughing violently, Simon looks puzzled, What
does coughing have to do with using a stolen credit card? I guess you
havent heard about the virus thats going around the city, Jill says. No Ive
have to work so much I havent had time to think about a virus. Its all over
the news, but be careful you dont want to catch this virus its deadly; if they
come back give me a call, Sheriff Smith gives Simon a card.
The residents of Rock Hill are becoming angry because they cant
leave the city for any reason, so some of them want to challenge the soldiers
to see what they will do. Two men Jessie and his friend Mack have teamed up
with two more guys, Rocky and Hershel, their plan is a diversion so two of
them can sneak by the soldiers. These men dont realize how serious this
quarantine is they think its a game. Its two oclock in the afternoon and the
four men sit in Macks car not far from the blockade. Ok we need to meet
back here at midnight right over there, Jessie points to some bushes only a
few yards from where the soldiers are. Oh yeah make sure everyone wears
black, Mack adds. But what about our cars, Hershel asks. Park them
further down the road so they cant be seen, and walk up here. Now are we
all in, Jessie says giving all of them high fives.

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That evening Jessie wife become suspicious when he begins to iron a
pair of black jeans and a black shirt. What are you and your misfit friends up
to now? Weve going hunting, Jessie quickly says. Youre not going
hunting dressed in all black, what are you really up to? Ah mind your own
business woman, cant I go out with the guys without all these questions,
Jessie shouts.
By eleven forty five the headlights of two cars pull about a hundred
yards from one of the four blockades placed around Rock Hill. Mack and the
group have parked their cars over a hundred yards away where the soldiers
cant see them, and four men dressed in black quietly make their way up the
road. Man my wife was full of question about what were doing tonight,
Mack blurts out. What did you tell her, Jessie asks. I told her were going
hunting just like we planned. Hershel and Rocky nod their heads, Yeah we
did too. Jessie has always been ambitious hes twenty five years old, where
Hershel, Rocky, and Mack are all in their fifties.
The men have reached their position, Ok Rocky you and Hershel its
show time, Jessie whispers. Reluctantly the two men make their way from
the bushes walking toward the blockade. Hello boys, Rocky yells as they
approach. Alright thats far enough, the two guards say walking up to
them. We cant let you leave the city. Come on guys its Christmas, I need
to get to Charlotte to get this special doll my daughter wants, Rocky says.
How are you going to get to Charlotte, walk, one solider says as they all
laugh. No, my car is parked up the road, Rocky defends. He and Hershel
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are standing in front of the guards so they cant see around them. I am
sorry sir, but the city is under quarantine no one can leave, the soldiers take
their weapons off their shoulders. Ok its time, Jessie says starting to run
past the blockade toward an open field. Mack tries to follow but Jessie is in
full stride now. This all started as a joke and no one thought it would get this
far. The plan was for both of them to run, but Mack is thirty something years
older than Jessie he will never catch him. The soldiers are only distracted for
a moment, one of them see Jessie running. Stop or Ill shoot, the young
man shouts rising his weapon. Now Mack realizes that this has gone way too
far, Jessie stop, or theyll. Suddenly a rifle shot rings through the area
hitting Jessie in the back, he falls to the ground, but the grass in the field is
high so Jessie cant be seen. Mack, Ricky and Hershel are all stunned; they
didnt think it would come to this, all three run out to help their fallen friend
but the soldiers stops them. Thats far enough, one young solider says
raising his rifle. Do you realize what youve done; you just shot an unarmed
man, wait until this gets to the news, Mack shouts as the others hold him,
because they know he has a temper.
Two other soldiers walk out to pick up Jessie who is barely conscious,
one grabs his feet and the other grabs him under the arms, and carry him
back. Mack, Mack it hurts so bad, Jessie says as blood pours out of his
mouth, and the soldiers lay him on the ground. Mack takes Jessie in his arms
as tears roll down his face; he realizes this was not a game. Hey
Mack..one thing I can sayI made it, Jessie says taking his last breath.
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Look at what youve done, Mack yells at the soldier that shot Jessie. Youre
just as much at fault as we are for putting this young man up to a stunt like
this, the young soldier responds. Mack tries to jump on the young man but
the others hold him, Come on Mack lets go, Rocky says.
Just as the three men start toward their cars, one of the soldiers,
Private Dave Parker begins to cough violently stops and sniffs the air. Right
before their eyes Dave changes, his eyes turn coal black; Daves jaw
stretches to make room for those long sharp teeth. Jessies dead body is on
the ground bleeding badly, Dave bends down and starts ripping into Jessie,
the eerie sound of tearing flesh can be heard, and the blood does not seen to
stop. Next Dave feeds on Jessies internal organs; just a normal person eats
food. Oh my God, do something, Mack shouts at the soldiers. The soldiers
are terrified, they cant do anything, only one of them keeps his cool enough
to pull his pistol and shoot Dave in the head. I cant believe what just
happened, that guy turned into a monster, Mack shouts. Thats why your
city is under quarantine, were trying to keep this virus contained, one of
the soldiers says.

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CHAPTER EIGHT
Over in Atlanta at the CDC Doctors Weston and Bridges are frantically
working on an anti-dose for the deadly virus. The news of the Feeding Virus
finally hits main stream media; it comes on the television while the doctors
are working. A strange virus is spreading through a town of Rock Hill South
Carolina, it has claimed forty nine lives in eleven days, and officials at the
CDC are worried that this virus could be out of control in a few weeks. No one
is saying where the virus came from, but it is rumored that a military plane
was carrying it when it crashed near Rock Hill, the TV reporter says. I am
sorry to say Stan the one hundred forty nine from that plane crash in Dallas
makes the death toll at two hundred in eleven days, Doctor Bridges says.
Yeah, thats all the known cases what about the cases that are not
reported, Weston adds. This is getting out of control ..I am going to call
Washington, Doctor Bridges waits for his friend to comment but all Weston
says is, We dont have any other choice.
General Manleys office how may I direct your call, a present
sounding woman says. Yes, my name is Doctor Allen Bridges, I am the
director of the CDC in Atlanta Georgia, and I am calling about a military plane
that crashed near Rock Hill South Carolina. There is a short pause, Oh
yes..one moment please. A few minutes later a deep sounding
intimidating voice comes on the line. This is General Manley, what do you
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know about our downed plane. Well sir, I know the plane was carrying a
chemical weapon, some unusual virus that causes people to eat each other,
Doctor bridges says. How did you find this information? First like I said I
am the director of the CDC in Atlanta; Doctor Stan Weston who created the
virus came to me asking for help, because the people of Rock Hill were
eating each other, and the death toll is climbing fast. How many have died
so far, the general asks. There have one hundred ninety eight known
deaths in eleven days. There is a long silence the general cant believe this
top secret weapon has escaped, he also wonders how they are going to stop
the virus from spreading and keep the information from the public. Plus I am
not sure if youre aware but the plane that recently crashed near Dallas was
caused by the feeding virus. How do you know that, the generals gruff
voice billows through the phone. We have video footage the FAA found a
cell phone that survived the crash and recorded everything. Son thats top
secret information, I suggest you get that phone to my office immediately,
the general shouts. I thought you said the virus was in Rock Hill South
Carolina, how did it get all the way to Dallas? We believe a woman from
Rock Hill went to California and spread the virus somehow, as the plane
returned east it crashed near Dallas, Doctor Bridges explains. Yes your
situation does sound serious, is Rock Hill under quarantine, the general
seems to calm down. Yes sir as of yesterday but I think we did not react fast
enough. Thank you doctor for the information, Ill talk to the joint chiefs

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and we will monitor the situation, and make sure I get that phone, General
Manley hangs up.
Stan Weston is watching Doctor Bridges talk to the general on the
monitor in his room and as soon as he hangs up, What did he say? Doctor
Bridges looks very disappointed, the general said he was not aware that the
plane crash near Dallas was caused by the virus, and he asked me how I
knew that. I told him we had a cell phone the FAA found that recorded
everything, thats when the general said that information was top secret and
wed better get that phone to his office immediately. Man, I have been so
focused on finding an anti-dose, I forgot the Feeding Virus was top secret,
Stan Weston says. The general also said they were going to monitor the
situation which really disappointed me, I expected a lot more than that,
Bridges admits. Youve dealt with the government for a while, you should
know they dont get in a hurry about anything, Doctor Weston goes back to
his testing.
Over in Rock Hill the middle school classes are just letting out for
today. James did everything he could to avoid Randle hoping he would forget
about the fight. However Randle has been telling everyone in school hes
going to beat James so bad hell run home to his mommy. A large crowd has
gathered behind the school hoping to see some action. Two of Randles
friends grab James while he is waiting for the school bus and drag him to the
back of the school. Well Mr. big and bad, lets see how tough you are now,
Randle punches James in the stomach and the crowd cheers. James falls to
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his knees coughing and gasping for air. He starts to get angry, and when
James quickly rises up to grab Randle, his head accidently bumps the big kid
in the nose causing it to bleed. Everyone in the crowd begins to laugh at big
Randle letting little James bust his nose, Randle is infuriated he climbs on top
of James and begin hitting him with a flurry of punches. His bloody nose
starts dripping down onto Jamess face. All of a sudden James screams the
pain in his head almost cripples him, his eyes turn coal black, and his jaws
extend as his teeth grow. Randle is so into punishing James he does not
realize hes turned into a monster.
Just as Randle draws his fist back to hit his victim again, he sees
Jamess face and so does the children standing nearby they run away
screaming, James is a monster. Randle tries to scream but the sharp claws
and teeth rip open his throat, and he falls to the ground blood pours from his
neck. With just one swipe James rips open Randles stomach and devours his
internal body parts, his blood is sweet. By the time James is almost finished
feeding the principal and his assistants come running toward him. James
never realized he could move so fast easily jumping and eight foot fence and
disappearing behind several houses. Are you sure that was James, the
principal ask Amy, one of the girls who seen James close up. Yes, I was
standing right over there, Randle and James were fighting, then James turned
into this monster, Amy explains. Ok..where is Randle, the principal asks.
They all look to see Randles mutated carcass on the ground. Oh my God,

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the principal says almost fainting one of the assistant principal have to hold
her up.
Iris Carter is still on her journey back to Rock Hill South Carolina, her
original plan was to take interstate forty but she was almost caught at the
dinner in Needles California, so Iris decides to take interstate 93 and pick up
interstate 10 outside of Phoenix Arizona. I cant believe this is really
happening to me, it all seems like a strange movie, Iris mumbles as she
drives. There are miles and miles of desert, power lines, and occasional
houses scattered along the highway. Iris begins to daydream behind the
wheel remembering the many people she has helped make the dream of
owning a home come true. Life was good then, she thinks. Iris goes around
a curve and car is sitting on the road right in front of her, she slams on the
brakes the tires skid and her car swerves, its all she can do to keep from
hitting other vehicle. This other car is in very bad shape, it looks like a truck
hit it and kept going. Iris gets out walking slowly toward the accident; she
can see someone is in the vehicle because an arm is hanging out of the
drives window. Iriss still has most of her human instincts which causes her
to want to help, but she hopes there is not a lot of blood.
The man that was driving is slumped over the steering wheel his
body is crushed and bleeding, a woman and children are in the back seat,
but they dont look to be hurt very bad and are barely conscious.
Instinctively Iris grabs her cell phone and dials 911. An older woman
answers, 911 emergencies how may I help you? There has been a bad
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accident on highway 93 people are hurt. Iris drops her phone and starts
screaming from the pain in her head, shes having a reaction from the virus.
She tries to run away from the car but only gets a few feet and her body
starts changing; now her thirst for blood takes control. The monster Iris has
become goes back to the car and grabs the man dragging him to the ground
and begins feeding. Right when Iris is enjoying the mans intestines her keen
sense hearing picks up sirens come up fast. She jumps in her car and speeds
away before the highway patrol arrives. When Iris looks in the rearview
mirror she sees another state trooper coming up fast behind her, fear is her
only emotion now. Luckily Iris spots a dirt road just up ahead, she quickly
turns down it, and this road branches off to three other roads. Isis quickly
loses the trooper, but after driving further down one of the roads she finds an
abandoned farm house, she pulls up for closer look.
As James runs through the backyards and alleys his facial features
begin to return to normal, then he realizes his house is not far. The young
boys clothes are stained with Randles blood, but he just wants to get home.
James rushes in the front door and starts upstairs hoping his mother wont
notice. Oh my God what happened to you, Sandra his mother asks. I was
in a fight, James says still trying to go upstairs. Wait a minute, in a fight
with whom? James does not want to answer. Was it Randle, his mother
asks with a frown that means shes very angry. The young man just nods his
head. I thought I told you to stay away from him. I know mom, but he kept
messing with me, James takes another step up. Sandra knows James misses
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his father, and that boy Randle is always picking with him. Alright hurry up
and take your shower dinner will be ready soon, his mother says still
wondering about all the blood on his clothes.
Iris found an old but well-kept ranch house stuck back in the woods.
Quietly she steps up on the front porch and rings the doorbell; its a few
minutes after midnight so whoever is home is probably asleep. Iris waits
several minutes and rings the doorbell again, but there is still no response. In
a way she hopes no one is home because Iris is worried about being
recognized. After waiting for fifteen minutes she decides to try the front door,
to her surprise its open.
Cautiously Iris steps into the dark house, carrying her suitcase. Hello
is anyone here, she shouts. The only response is an echo of her voice.
Instinctively the young woman reaches for the light switch and surprisingly it
comes on. Hello is anyone in here, she yells again. Iris Carter looks around
inside a house that hasnt changed in over forty years; there is navy blue
and white flowered wallpaper on every wall of the house, and in the dining
room there is chandelier that looks fifty or more years old. When Iris walks
into the dining room she sees mail on the table addressed to a Mrs. Pearson.
A glance in the living room reviles something really strange, an old black and
white TV encased in a light oak wood cabinet; the screen looks to be only
twelve inches wide. Oh my God its a TV, Iris is only thirty one years old,
shes heard about the old TVs but its something to actually see one. In her
excitement Iris looks down and remembers her bloody clothes. I wonder if
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the water is on, she walks down the hallway to one of the oak doors that
have been painted white several times. Inside the bathroom sits a bathtub
on what looks like its sitting on birds feet, and a medicine cabinet with a
very small mirror on the outside.
Iris looks at her blood stained face in the mirror, I need a shower,
she mumbles. She reaches over and turns on the faucet and to her surprise
the water is on. The beautiful woman steps out of her bloody clothes and
pulls the shower curtain around on its rod. No matter how bad things get its
something about a hot shower that makes you feel better. Iris starts to relax.
I hope my parents will be ok, she thinks.
Once Iris steps out of the tub onto the black and white checkered
floor and starts to dry off she has the feeling that someone is watching her.
She quickly dresses, walks in the bedroom and decides to try the phone. The
old land line telephone has a dial tone, so Iris sits on the bed and calls her
mother. Iriss parents have been worried sick about her, they have called her
cell phone several times, Iris wouldnt answer she was afraid of the call being
traced, but she feels a lot safer using someone elses telephone. After
several rings at the Carter house Iris begins to get worried. Hello, her
mother answers in a soft whisper. Hey mom its me, Iris. Mrs. Carters eyes
light up, Iris .is that really you? Yes mom its me, I just wanted to tell
you I am sorry for leaving you guys like that, but I am ok. Why didnt you
answer you phone.and where are you now, Mrs. Carter looks at the
strange number on her phone. Someone might be listing so let me say I am
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somewhere safe. Girl why did you leave like that, they are saying you killed
the woman at the banquet, her mother asks. There is a short pause Mom I
did kill the woman, mom. No way..must you be sick or something, are
you catching that virus theyve been talking about. Yes, mom thats what I
am trying to tell you, the virus makes you kill people, Iris tries to remain
calm. Oh I dont believe my baby would kill anyone; I just dont believe it,
her mother begins to cry. I am sorry to upset you mother but you taught me
to always tell the truth, the virus does make me kill, its like a living
nightmare. Mrs. Carter is still crying. There is some good news however, I
met this doctor who said he created the virus and I am trying to get All
of a sudden the phone goes dead and the lights go out. Iris quickly ducks
down beside the bed, she thinks it the police. Desperate to keep her freedom
she crawls over to the window, but when Iris peeps out she does not see
anyone.
Maybe it was a fuse, this is an old house. Iris uses her cell phone
light to make her way through the now dark house. She finds the kitchen and
stands in front of a couple of different doors until she finds the one with cold
air coming from around it. This is it, she opens it to a dark staircase. I
cant believe I am doing this, Iris mumbles as she descends down the stairs
to the basement. The air is cold and musty plus there is a strange smells
lingering. Slowly Iris makes her way over piles of junk, boxes, stacks of
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Suddenly the light from Iriss cell phone picks up a figure standing in
the corner. The terrified woman jumps but tries not to scream, quickly
slipping behind a cabinet. She shines the light toward the figure again but it
is still there. Trembling Iris just sits and waits thinking whoever it is will do or
say something. After fifteen minutes nothing happens and the figure has not
moved. Maybe their dead, it might be Mrs. Pearson, Iris carefully moves
toward the strange person that seems to frozen in time, watching for any
movement. Shes close enough to shine the light one more time; Iris finds a
manikin standing against some boxes. I cant believe I was terrified of a
person made of plastic, Iris mumbles.
She finally sees the fuse box in the corner of the basement on the
wall covered with years worth of dust and spider webs. Iris finds an old
curtain rod to brush the spider webs away causing the remaining spiders to
run for cover. She pulls open the small metal door shining the light inside. Iris
cant believe there are no fuses the box is empty. But I know the lights were
on when I got here, she says out loud. Fatigue is starting to come down on
Iris so she decides to find a bed. Iris has not slept since she left California
which was three days ago. I better not stay here too long in case the police
traced my call, she sets the alarm on her cell phone.
Now Iris is like the girl Goldilocks and the three bears, she is looking
for the most comfortable bed in the three bedroom house. Just like in the
story the third bed is perfect so Iris curls up for a nap. It doesnt take long for
the exhausted woman to fall asleep and all the events of the past few days
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run through her mind. For some reason Iris hears footsteps on the front
porch, she sits straight up in bed, The police have found me. Tip-toeing to
the window Iris peeps out, but there is not a car anywhere. Am I so tried I
am hallucinating, Iris thinks. Suddenly the footsteps start again but this
time their inside the house coming down the hall. Iris Carter is terrified the
person is dragging one leg along the floor as they walk, it sounds like coarse
sandpaper on a smooth piece of wood. The footsteps stop outside her
bedroom door now and someone is on the other side turning the knob. Iris
retreats to the corner of the room as the bedroom door slowly opens, an old
lady who looks like she died several years ago stands there looking at her.
Her face has decayed so much only parts of her flash remain, the womans
eyes bulge as she says, Get out of my house, pointing her finger at her. Iris
cant hold it any longer she lets out a scream and wakes up. Now the room is
empty. She is soaking wet from sweat, Iris rushes in the bathroom grabs a
towel and dries her face as she throws her things back into the suitcase.
Man that seemed so real; I cant stay here any longer.
Out in San Francisco at a coffee shop Iris visited a couple of times a
business man, Adam Jenkins sits outside on a nice Monday morning enjoying
a cup of coffee. Hes been feeling a little under the weather lately; Adam has
a sudden uncontrollable cough which almost causes him to knock over the
small table he is sitting at. A nice looking young man Josh is trying to work
his way through college by waiting tables at this coffee shop, he is hard at
work taking care of his customers. Josh has been learning how to shave and
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this morning he got too close in just one spot. He does his usual filing of
customers cups as he approaches Adams table. More coffee sir, Josh has
his pot ready to pour. Yeah sure, Adam is reading the paper, but suddenly
his cough gets worst he stands up looking at Josh who is terrified. After a few
seconds Adam stops coughing and sniffs the air, then suddenly screams from
the pain in his head. Is there something I can do for you sir, Josh asks
afraid to touch him. Adam cant answer but begins changing into something
that looks like a monster from a horror movie. Before Josh can move Adam
jumps on him biting into his flesh and begins feeding, all the other people
outside jump up screaming and running for their lives. Two brave souls pull
out their cell phones and record the whole everything. Before noon the
incident has hit the media and is on CNN.
Now at the CDC in Atlanta, doctors Bridges and Weston are working
twenty four hours a day trying to find an anti-dose for the virus. The horrible
tragedy at the San Francisco coffee shop comes blasting across the screen;
they have to stop to watch. My God Stan the virus is getting worse. Yes,
this man was probably affected by Iris or something she touched, Stan
Weston says. You must think Iris has left California. Yeah Ive got a feeling
shes on the move somewhere, thats a smart young lady, Stan declares.
Regardless of that this thing is getting worse; I am going to call Washington
again, Doctor Bridges looks worried.
Can I speak to General Manley please, Doctor Bridges sits down at
his desk. One moment please, a young man says. This is General Manley,
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his gruff voice comes through the phone. General this is Doctor Bridges
director of the CDC; I hate to be a pest but the virus we spoke about is
getting worse. Oh really, what are the numbers now. Sir I am trying to
impress on you the numbers are a result of what the virus has done, I am
trying to stop people from dying. General this is an airborne virus; it is
spread like a cold or flu. If we dont stop it soon the virus will be out of
control, and the whole country will be affected, Doctor Bridges explains.
There is a moment of silence, Alright doctor we are having a meeting of the
joint chiefs this Friday, why dont you come and give us an update on the
virus. But I am not the expert on this virus Doctor Stan Weston is. Ok
bring him too, the general says. Thats not possible because the doctor has
the virus, hes confined at the CDC in Atlanta; Ill come, Bridges frowns.
Out is Arizona Iriss rent-a-car has been running rough for the past
hour. She does not know much about cars but whatever is going on inside
the motor does not sound good. Finally right outside of Phoenix on highway
seventeen, the Ford knocks a few times and gives out. Iris pulls off to the
side of the road, and when she raises the hood steam and smoke come
pouring from the motor. That cant be good, Iris mumbles. Her plan was to
leave interstate forty and catch interstate ten outside of Tucson. She was
thinking about going further south hoping the police wont see her. Iris has
always been a creative woman, her good looks have gotten her any man she
wanted, and right now she needs a man to help her. Quickly she opens the
trunk and pulls a pair of jeans out of her bag; using a pocket knife the young
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woman always carries, Iris cuts the jeans off very short, like hot paints. She
sits on the passenger side of the car slipping off the pair of jeans and slipping
on the pair of shorts. Now with Iriss beautiful body all she has to do is stand
by the car and wait.
As cars and trucks pass by Iris men honk their horns, yell and do
double takes noticing beautiful Iris Carter standing by her disabled car. Steve
Hudson has been a big rig driver for fifteen years; his mind is not really on
the road right now, because he and his wife are going through a bitter
divorce. Steve is having a hard time not being able to see his son when he
wants. He happens to see Iris and pulls over to help.
A smile flashes across Iriss face when she realizes her plan for
rescue is working. Steve is six foot two with a small waist and a handsome
smile; hes wearing an NFL cap that has an Arizona Cardinals emblem on it, a
tee shirt and jeans. Iris sizes him up as he approaches; Steves jeans are full
in the right place. Its a scorching hot day in December even for Arizona, and
Iris has begun to sweat. I think its a little hot for something like this, Steve
says walking up to the overheating engine. Yes, it is very hot.are you a
mechanic, Iris gives him a sexy smile. I know a little, but it looks like your
problem is inside the motor which is bad. If you want I could give you a ride,
where you headed, Steve asks. Iris does not want to say anything about the
police looking for her or where shes going, I am headed east. Ok, well
hop in, but what about your car? Oh its just a rental we can leave it, Iris
bends over to get something out of the vehicle and Steve cant help but
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notice her beautiful body. Steve frowns, I dont think I would leave the car
on the side of the road, there has been a rash of cars being taken off the
highway in this area. If someone takes the car youre libel for the whole cost
of the vehicle. Iris knows about contracts and realizes Steve is telling the
truth. Ok so what can I do, she looks desperate. Well I am dead-heading to
El-Paso Texas, we can take your car there and swap it for another one, Steve
suggests. Ok, but what is dead-heading? Oh thats when you drive around
with an empty trailer, Steve opens his trailer doors. So how are you going
to get this car up there, Iris points to the inside of the trailer. Oh not just
me, but we are going to push it up there, Ive got some car ramps. Iris takes
her bags out of the rent-a-car and puts them in the truck, and then she helps
Steve push the car up the ramps. She thought it was going to be easy, but it
took everything they had to get the Ford up the ramps. Iris enjoyed watching
Steves muscles bulge as he pushes hard to finally get the car in the trailer.
Man that thing is heavy, Iris says trying to catch her breath. Steve just
nods he is also breathing hard. They are both leaning on the trunk of the car,
Steves eyes meets hers but Iris looks away. He climbs down out of the trailer
first, and then he puts his strong hands around Iriss waist lifting her down,
their eyes meet again there is a long silent stare, I think we better get
going, they say together.
Back at the CDC in Atlanta Doctor Stan Weston is full of questions
when he sees his friend is off the phone. What did they say? The general
said he wants a presentation about the Feeding Virus given to the Joint
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Chiefs this Friday, Allen Bridges is already nervous. I should be doing that
presentation, Stan mumbles. Yes my friend I agree, but thats not possible,
its already Wednesday I would appreciate it if you help me prepare, Doctor
Bridges just stares at him. Stan frowns, but he knows the virus must be
stopped before it gets any worse.
So are you from around here, Steve asks as he shifts the gears to
get the big rig moving. Iris does not want to be rude, but she just cant tell
him a lot. No I am from back east, she finally says. Oh really, I am
originally from Columbia South Carolina, Steve smiles trying to get her to
relax. What in the world am I doing climbing in a truck with a stranger, he
could be a serial killer or something, Iris thinks. You know its a shame
about that plane that crashed over near Rock Hill, the people back home was
telling me there was some type of poison gas on it, Steve waits for a
response. Yeah that was a shame, Iris turns her head toward the passenger
window. Steve frowns, You know this is going to be a long trip if we cant at
least talk to each other. Iris looks at him and sort of smiles.
After about an hour of silence Iris finally says, Where did you say
you were from? I am from Colombia South Carolina, Steve still has to wait
for her response. Iris is nervous, I was visiting friends in San Francisco, she
finally says. California, Ive been there a few times, Steve sees something
in the road up ahead. I wonder what thats all about. Whats going on,
Iris strains to see. It looks like some sort of road block, Steve shifts the
gears to slow down. Once they are stopped in traffic Steve reaches for his log
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book. Whats that for, Iris asks. We have to keep up with how many miles
we drive to make sure we rest. Iris only partially hears what Steve is saying
because she now realizes the road block up ahead is probably for her.
The traffic is moving very slowly, as Steve and Iris inch toward the
road block her heart is pounding so fast it feels like Iriss chest is going to
explode. When they get a few cars from the state troopers up ahead Iris
says, Look Steve I need your help I was accused of murdering a woman
back in San Francisco, I dont want to go to jail; can you help me. Steve
does not seem surprised he had a feeling Iris was hiding something. You
look too beautiful to murder anyone, climb in the sleeper and let me take
care of everything else. Thank you, Iris kisses him on the side of the face
and climbs between the two black curtains hanging in front of the sleeper.
Just be still Ill handle this, Steve says.
Where you headed, the trooper asks after Steve rolls down the
window, he tries to hide the fear in his face. I am headed to El Paso, Steve
gives him his log book. The officer frowns, I dont need that; were looking
for a white female that looks like this, he shows Steve the picture of Iris.
Steve looks at the picture for a moment Wow shes gorgeous, I am sure I
would remember seeing a beauty like that. The trooper looks at Steves
trailer, What are you haling? Oh I am dead heading to El Paso to pick up a
trailer there. Where are you coming from? I am coming from Phoenix,
Steve tries to remain calm. Thats a long way to dead head, the trooper
frowns. I missed a delivery because my tractor broke down, so thats why I
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am dead heading. Ok let me look in your trailer and youll be on your way,
the trooper opens Steves truck doors he can get out. The thirty year old
man heart drops, Steve knows if they see Iriss car, he will probably go to jail
with her. Slowly Steve climbs out of his tractor and walks with the trooper to
the back of his trailer. Inside the tractor behind the curtain Iris is so nervous
shes shaking. Suddenly she hears someone talking right outside the tractor
door. Let me check this last one and Ill be right there, the mans voice
says stepping up on the first step of the tractor. Iris holds her breath praying
he does not come any closer.
Steve is at the back of the trailer fumbling like he is looking for the
right key on his key ring. About a mile up the road in the opposite direction a
loud explosion shakes the ground. A tractor trailer carrying gasoline hit two
other cars, and now a big ball of fire and black smoke surrounds the area.
Ok sir you can go, the trooper says to Steve. Both highway patrolmen jump
in their car and speed off. Iris, Iris, Steve whispers after climbing back in his
truck. Slowly she pokes her head through the black curtain, while Steve is
shifting gears to get the big rig through the road block. What did they ask
you, Iris climbs in the passengers seat. They was asking about you.if I
am going to continue to help you I need to know whats going on, Steve
insists.
Tears begin to roll down Iriss face as she remembers how her life was
before she caught the virus. I used to be a successful real-estate agent, the
best in the state to be exact. What state was that? Steve quickly asks.
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Oh I am from South Carolina too. Well were neighbors, how about that,
he smiles. It was a shame about the plane letting out that poison gas.
Steve I am from Rock, the plane didnt let off poison gas, it was a virus, Iris
snaps and starts to cough. If it was a virus does this mean it can spread like
a cold or flu, Steve asks. Yes just like any common cold, only the results are
much worse. Alright my next question is obvious..do you have this virus,
he asks. Iris stares at him for a moment, Yes, unfortunately I do have the
virus. Oh manthats deep, so what are your plans, Steve asks as he
shifts gears. I am on my way back to Rock Hill to meet with a Doctor
Weston, he invented this dreadful virus and is supposed to working on a
cure, Iris forces a smile.
Back in Rock Hill South Carolina, Sheriff Smith and Peggy are
overwhelmed with calls there have been forty more attacks in just a couple
of days. The sheriff calls the police department but they are flooded with
calls too. Its Christmas Eve the snow is falling, everyone should be in the
Christmas spirit, but instead they are afraid to come out of their houses
because of the virus that is plaguing their town. Most of the people did online shopping and had their packages delivered, which kept UPS, Fed-Ex, and
the Post Office very busy.
Out west Steve and Iris stop at a truck stop for some fuel and
something to eat. When Iris starts to climb down out of the tractor she
remembers the hot pant jeans she has on. Oh no, I cant go in front of a
bunch of strangers like this. Why not, I think you look sexy, Steve adds.
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Thanks, but Ill just slip on another pair of jeans just turn you head, Iris
reaches in her bag pulling out a regular pair of jeans. She puts her legs up on
the dash slipping off the hot pants. Steve has to peek, the beautiful woman
looks even sexier in her underwear, and Iris is bulging in all the right places.
Once she wiggles into her jeans, I saw you peeking, she slaps his arm.
Come on lets go Ive got to pee, Iris insists. You go ahead Ive got to pump
my fuel, Steve says climbing out of the tractor. Ok Ill see you inside, Iris
looks good even in regular jeans, Steve thinks as she walks off.
Every eye is on Iris when she walks in the truck stop. Once she comes
out of the restroom Iris hears, Wow pretty lady are you traveling alone?
This driver is extremely overweight unshaved with a holey tee shirt and worn
out jeans. No I am not alone, my man is on his way in here, so go find
somebody else to hit on, Iris says. Youve got a smart mouth for a lot
lizard. Are you calling me a whore? Iris is furious. If the shoe fits, the
driver takes his large hand and grabs Iris by the throat almost lifting her off
the floor. For some reason the virus seems to be surfacing as her anger
builds, for a second the man looks at Iris and her eyes turn coal black, and
she growls at the driver like an animal. My word bitch, youre weird, the
driver quickly lets her go, pushing people out of his way as he storms out the
door.
Whats wrong with that guy, Steve asks walking up and putting his
arm around Iris. Oh he bit off a little more than he can chew, she says with
a sly smile. Speaking of chewing lets eat, where do want to sit. Lets get
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a booth by the window, Iris pulls him by the hand. So youre on your way
back to Rock Hill South Carolina, Steve asks as they sit down. Yes, I dont
have any other choice; I dont want to live with this virus. I have to tell you
Steve, this virus is nothing like youve ever seen before, it changes a person
physically, their never the same after being infected, Iris explains. Well it
has not done anything but make you look more beautiful, Steve says gently
rubbing her leg. Thanks, thats sweet, but if you could see me after a
reaction you wouldnt think so, Iris says. Steve stares at her for a moment.
I guess there is only one thing I can do. Whats that? I have to help you
get to South Carolina to see this Doctor Weston, Steve says. Look you dont
have to do that, what about the load youre supposed to pick up? Ill call
my dispatcher and tell him to get someone else, they owe me some time off
anyway, Steve places their orders.
At the CDC doctors Bridges and Weston are working on a power point
presentation about the feeding virus, to give to the Joint Chiefs on Friday.
Stan Weston is still in his isolation room so they have to see each other
through computer monitors. Lets use my notes as bullet points and get the
computer to calculate the progress of the virus over time, Weston suggests.
They spend the whole day looking through news reports about the virus to
find out approximately how many people have been affected. It turns out
that 2900 people have died from the feeding virus in thirteen days; this is an
average of 223 a day so far. Now all we have to do is link the numbers up to
the computer and were done, Stan Weston has given many power point
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presentations this is the first one he wont be able to attend. Do you think I
can pull this off, Bridges asks. Sure man just follow my notes and youll be
fine, Doctor Weston wants to shake his hand but cant. You act as if this is
you first power point presentation. Oh Ive done them before, but I get
nervous every time, Doctor Bridges looks at his colleague, I wish you could
come with me. I know but youll do fine, lets get this virus stopped, Stan
Weston says.
Allen Bridges catches a flight out of Atlanta to Washington D.C.
Thursday night; this gives him time to work on the presentation, so he will be
ready in the morning. Allen tires to relax by talking to his wife and kids,
When are you coming home, Allen you know Christmas is almost here, his
wife says. I know, Ill be back tomorrow just handle things until I get back,
this wont take long, Ill be leaving in the morning, Allen hangs up and
practices his delivery again, he has done many presentations before, but
never in front of some the most powerful men in Washington. He tries to
sleep but tosses and turns almost all night, when sleep finally does comes
the phone rings, its time to get up. After a shower and putting on his suit
Allen downs a couple of cups of coffee and practices his presentation one
more time. The phone rings and serious sounding voice says, Is this Doctor
Bridges. Yes this is Doctor Bridges. This is your chauffeur I will pick you
up in the lobby at seven thirty. Wow..I have a chauffeur thats a first,
Allen says out loud. By seven oclock Doctor Allen Bridges is ready so he
decides to go to the lobby to read the paper and wait on his ride.
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The Washington newspaper has a big article about the Feeding
Virus on the front page, although they call it an unknown virus it has killed
hundreds in a few days. City officials are scrambling to find out what it is,
and where the virus came from. Man I hope this meeting will help get this
virus stopped before it becomes a national problem, Doctor Bridges thinks.
Finally at seven thirty a long black limousine pulls up in front of
Allens hotel. A stocky white man gets out dressed in a black suit and walks
into the lobby. I am looking for Doctor Bridges, the man says with an
expressionless face. I am Doctor Bridges, Allen steps up with his bags. I
am here to take you to the White House; let me take those bags, the man
puts Allens bags in the trunk and they are on the way.
Allen Bridges sits quietly looking out the window wondering is this
really happening. Its eight oclock in the morning and the Washington streets
are full of people on their way to work. Allen really thinks hes watching a
movie when he sees people walking down the street with masks over their
mouth and nose to protect them from the virus. Stan Weston needs to see
this, he thinks. The smooth riding limousine pulls around to the back of the
White House where four military men are there to greet Allen. Welcome
Doctor Bridges, A young man in an Air Force uniform says, judging by his
rank he looks to be a colonel. The colonel escorts the doctor to a set of
tables where the contents of both of his bags is emptied out and searched.
Next Allen and the colonel walk through a metal detector, and hes given a
visitors badge.
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Right this way sir, two Marines lead the doctor down several
hallways to large conference room where other men military and civilian men
are standing around talking. One general who seems to be the highest
ranking officer enters the room, and every military man snaps to attention
when he steps up in front of the group. Hello Doctor Bridges, its a pleasure
to meet you, wheres Stan Weston? Thank you.Stan Weston has caught
the virus; we have him isolated at the CDC in Atlanta. The general looks
surprised.Let me introduce myself; I am General Applewood, I was with
Stan Weston when he invented the feeding virus, it unfortunate he is not
here. I hope your ready they have a lot of questionslets get started.
Doctor Bridges now notices the conference room is round with large
computer monitors mounted around the wall near the ceiling; each monitor
has a different location in the world on it. On the floor there is a counter that
stretches around the room with computer stations every three or four feet.
The chairs at each of these stations are empty because of this meeting. In
the center of this room is a very large conference table and around it sits five
generals from the different branches of the military each look to be in their
forties and fifties, and five other men dressed in black suits with United
States insignia pins on their lapels, they look to be members of congress, or
some other high ranking office.
Welcome Doctor Bridges, I am Harry Gibson director of the Joint
Chiefs, if youre ready. Allen Bridges takes a deep breath stands up and
hands a DVD to one of the other soldiers who puts into the computer. For
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those of you that dont know me I am Doctor Allen Bridges director of the
CDC in Atlanta. I was requested to talk to you this morning about the Feeding
Virus or secret weapon 396, Some of the generals frown and whisper among
themselves. Allen can sense what they are thinking. In case youre
wondering how I found out about your secret weapon Doctor Stan Weston
contacted me about six days ago to help him with a virus outbreak in Rock
Hill South Carolina. Stan Weston sent me this video which I am about to show
you. I am sure by now all of you are aware that a military plane crashed
some thirteen days ago, it was carrying this virus which has escaped in the
air surrounding Rock Hill. In my opinion this virus is more deadly than any
nuclear weapon you could unleash because it spreads rapidly like a cold or
flu, Doctor Bridges explains. Now the men in the black suits are whispering
to themselves. Allen shows a picture of a person going through a reaction,
Especially notice the jaw and teeth We already know what the virus
can do doctor, how are we going to stop it, General Applewood interrupts.
With all due respect sir, our job is to understand a problem before we can
try to fix it. Also Id like to ask you a question general, when the virus was
created why wasnt an anti-dose made for it then, Doctor Bridges asks. The
general frowns because he has the anti-dose but is just too stubborn to tell
anyone. I am not sure.Ill have to look into that, the general says with a
frown.
Continue doctor, Harry Gibson says. Well the Feeding Virus is like
most other viruses except for one major thing, once it gets into a host it
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remains there forever like the chicken-pox turns into the shingles over time.
Also I understand from Doctor Weston that this virus was only supposed to
last 2.4 days and dissipative, but we are in the thirteenth day and there are
no signs of it dissipating. Doctor Weston also believes the longer this virus
stays in someone it will begin to take complete control of all their normal
body functions, Allen explains. What exactly do you mean by that doctor,
a general asks. With most normal virus once they enter our bodies it begins
fighting this unwanted organism in our system, until the virus loses strength
and dies. This virus attaches itself to the DNA strains of our bodies and
changes them. Doctor Weston believes that if this virus stays in a person
long enough, they will only want human blood as their only food source.
Another amazing thing about the virus when someone is first infected, they
go through the change or a reaction as we call it, and return to normal which
makes them very hard to detect, Allen stops to take a breath. Has this city
Rock Hill South Carolina been quarantined, one of the general asks. Yes it
was quarantined four days ago, but I think we waited too long to react.
What do you mean doctor, Harry Gibson asks. People were leaving Rock
Hill right after the crash because of the holidays, so the virus has already
spread as far as California, New York, and right here in Washington D.C. Now
let me show you what this virus did to the copilot of the plane that crashed,
his name is Captain Sam Taylor, Allen gives the signal for the DVD to be
shown. Sam looked completely normal after the crash for the first four days,
it wasnt until Doctor Weston rolled a corpse into his isolation room that he
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had this reaction, Allen waits for their comments. In silence the room
watches Sam Taylor screams from the violent pain in his head, his jaws
stretch as his long teeth develop in his mouth, his eyes turn coal black and
Sams fingernails grow extremely long, he rips into the corpse feeding on its
internal organs.
The conference room is completely quiet now. Allen Bridges brings up
a map of the United States, There have been 2900 known deaths from the
Feeding Virus in just thirteen days. If the virus continues at its present rate
approximately 223 people will die each day. The red dots on the map are the
known deaths from the virus as of today. According to the computer in forty
five days the virus will look like this, Allen pushes a button and the map
turns completely red. Gentlemen in forty five days this feeding virus will
have infected the whole country and killed somewhere around fifty to one
hundred million people. The whole room erupts into conversation, they all
wonder how could this happen.
Alright Doctor Bridges what can we do to stop this virus, General
Applewood asks knowing he has the anti-dose. Doctor Stan Weston and I
are working night and day on an anti-dose, were close but its going to take
some time. It doesnt sound like time is an option we have, Harry Gibson
adds. No sir its not, that is why I was hoping your staff might have
suggestions on this crisis. Gibson just shakes his head and whispers
something to General Applewood. My suggestion at this point is to warn
everyone to practice safe hygiene like washing their hands several times a
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day. The average person touches their face about three thousand times a
day especially if they have a cold, so if youve infected whoever you touch
can catch this virus. A hand shake, using the telephone, or sometimes being
close to an infected person it can be contracted. I know this weapon is secret
but we should at least let the people know how deadly it is, Allen looks at
General Applewood. Does anyone have any questions, Allen asks before he
sits down. Yes doctor, what did you say triggers this virus, one of the
generals asks. Fresh blood, only a drop can trigger this virus. Alright
Doctor Bridges this problem does sound very serious, our staff will consider
the matter and take the appropriate actions; thank you, the officers will see
you out, Harry Gibson says.
Once Doctor Bridge leaves the conference room General Applewood
and two other generals say to Harry Gibson, You know this is going to be
very bad press if it continues, whats our back up plan? We have to put a
stop to this at all cost.if Doctors Bridges and Weston dont come up with an
anti-dose in eight days, by New Years launch the counter measures, Gibson
says. A young staff assistant Skip Walton has to ask, What are the counter
measures? We have two B-2 bombers loaded with enough payloads to wipe
a city off the map, General Applewood winks at Harry Gibson. We just cant
kill all of those innocent people that is murder, Skip protests. Listen young
man and listen good, in war there are always causalities, the virus has to be
stopped, General Applewood says. So what about the infected people that
have left Rock Hill, what are you going to do to them, Skip is very angry.
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We have a plan for them, Harry smiles at General Applewood. Of course
you know everything you hear in this room is top secret, General Applewood
says to Skip, who frowns but nods his head.
After Steve and Iris finish their meal they talk for another hour until
he says, Well we need to get going it will be dark soon. He pays for the
meal and as they walk out of the truck stop, Iris takes his hand. I just want
to say thank you for everything, she kisses him on the jaw, and Steve loves
her touch. Well your welcome, but I havent done anything yet, lets get you
to South Carolina. Iris sits in Steves tractor silently looking out the window
still wondering if all this is a bad dream. As the hours and miles pass Steve
and Iris continue to talk about everything until Iris stretches and says, I am
sleepy. Ok climb into the sleeper and rest, but I have to warn you it is a lot
different sleeping in a moving truck. Steve watches Iris maneuver her slim
body between the seats back into the sleeper. Ill be fine, she smiles at him
and lays down. We should be in El Paso by morning, Steve says shifting
gears. That beautiful woman has been through a lot, I really need to help
her. I guess thats my problem, I am too soft when it comes to women. When
I met Ruth my wife at that truck stop for the first time, I felt the same way
about her, she was working like crazy but took the time out to keep coming
to my table to check on me. I felt sorry that a beautiful woman like this had
to work so hard. Every time I went through Texas, I would make it a point to
stop in Austin. Steve remembers Ruth her skin was son soft, she could
captivate you with her eyes. But the hurt returns, Steve cant forget catching
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Ruth in bed with someone else; he thinks about Iris wondering what kind of
woman she would turn out to be.

CHAPTER NINE
The sun is slowly rising when Steve says, Wake up sleepy head
were here, he gently rubs Iriss leg. What .where are we, Iris says
sitting up and stretching. Were in El-Paso Texas, now we can drop your car
off and probably get another one, Steve smiles at Iris as she tries to wake
up and focus her beautiful green eyes. What did you do drive all night.
Yeah, but I am used to it, thats when I make the best time, less traffic, the
motor runs cooler which means less fuel, Steve explains. Why dont you
climb up here and find some directions on the computer to the rent-a-car
place. Oh yeah you guys have on board computers now, I read about that
somewhere, Iris works her way to the passengers seat. How did you
sleep, Steve asks. Ohit was different, but I guess I was so tired it didnt
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bother me; whats your pass word. Oh I am already logged on just type in
the address, Steve instructs. She pulls several papers from her purse and
Iris starts typing.
Alright heres a map to the location, Iris points to the computer
screen. Steve looks, Ok Ive got a good idea where it is now; Ive been to El
Paso several times. As Steve drives Iris sits silently gazing at him, He seems
like a really nice guy I wonder if hes married. I dont see a ring.are you
married Steve? I was married for ten years, but I am recently divorced. I
am sorry to hear that, I hate to see anyones marriage break up, Iris says.
What about you are married or seeing anyone, Steve takes a close look at
her hand. No I am not married, I was seeing someone, but he was
immature, Iris frowns.
Heres the street up ahead, now all we have to do is find..what is
the name, he asks. Its Prize Rentalsthere it is right there, Iris points
as they drive right past it. Ok now all we have to do is find a place to turn
around, Steve sounds tired. Why cant you just pull over somewhere, Iris
asks. I have a forty five foot trailer behind me the spot has to be big
enough. Steve has to drive several miles until he finds an empty parking lot
to turn around in.
Finally Steve and Iris pull up in front of Prize Rent-a-car. Why dont
you go inside and take care of the paperwork while I start taking the car off,
Steve says. Great because Ive got to pee, Iris slips down out of the tractor.
Her sexy body in those tight jeans causes every man within eye sight to look
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at her. When Iris steps inside the office she asks, Can I use your restroom?
The young man behind the counter is busy; Iris nervously waits for the young
mans response. Oh I am sorry, the restroom is right down that hall, he
finally says.
A few minutes later feeling relieved Iris returns to the counter. Hello
my name is Iris Carter, I rented a car in San Francisco California and while on
my way across country the car stopped on me outside of Phoenix. Where is
the car now, the young man asks. Oh my friend was nice enough to bring it
here on his truck, Iris gives him the paperwork. Ma-am this is highly
unusual, how do we know that your friend didnt damage the car? Steve is
a professional truck driver, I am sure he has handled cars before, Iris is
getting angry. Let me get the manager, the young man goes into a small
office and talks to a middle-aged man sitting at a desk, they both return to
the front. Hello ma-am I am Calvin Fisher the store manager, you say your
car stopped outside of Phoenix. Yes, and I told this gentleman my friend
was nice enough to bring it here instead of leaving it on the highway, Iris
explains again. We appreciate the extra effort, but we would have sent
another out to you if you had called. Oh..I didnt think about that, Iris
sort of smiles. Well its here now, we will have to check it for damages; Alex
you and Carlos give that guy a hand getting that car off the trailer, Mr.
Fisher instructs. The two young men say, Yes sir, quickly leaving out the
front door.

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While they are getting the car off lets get your information, Calvin
takes Iriss paperwork and types her name into the computer. In a few
seconds a warning flashes across the screen, Warning this person is wanted
by the police, contact them immediately. Can you excuse me a moment,
Calvin says going into his office and closing the door. Iris has a feeling
something is not right so she peeps at the computer screen. She panics
reading the word wanted, Iris rushes out of the office. Steve, Steve, we
need to leave right now, she whispers in his ear. Whats wrong, Steve tries
to calm her down. They identified me, the manager is calling the police right
now, Iris is terrified. Ok guys one of you get inside and steer, Ill get in the
back, you get in the front lets get this car off of here, Steve instructs the
two young men.
Yes this is Calvin Fisher manager of Prize rent-a-car; Ive got a young
lady here that brought one of our cars in on a trailer. You say shes driving
a tractor trailer? No, some guy is with her, anyway when I typed in her
name, Iris Carter a warning came up to call you, Jack explains. Did you say
Iris Carter, the office asks. Yes Iris Carter thats her name. Ok I want you
to listen very carefully, this woman is a deadly killer, try to detain her if you
can, stall as long as possible, but dont try to capture her, well be there in a
few minutes, the police officer says.
Steve and the guys have to strain but the car is off, he closes his
trailer doors and says, Lets go. They climb into the tractor and Steve
fanatically shifts gears to get the big rig rolling. By the time the couple gets
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to the end of the block two police cars comes speeding to the scene. Calvin
Fisher is outside pointing in their direction. Oh no it looks like we have
company, Iris says looking in the side mirror. Steve sort of smiles and keeps
on driving. Look Steve I know youre trying to help, but there is no since in
you getting in trouble too, why dont we just stop, Iris says nervously. Oh
no sugar, once this baby gets rolling I am not going to stop, Steve is
determined to help Iris at all cost.
Steve drives down several streets, and up ahead there are two police
cars blocking the road. I think youd better fasten your seatbelt, its going to
get rough, he says pressing on the escalator even harder. The two police
cars are following right behind them and Steve is not slowing down. Please
tell me youre not going to Just as Iris says the words the big truck rams
the police cars pushing them out of the way. The officers manning the road
block were ordered not to fire at them so they just get out of the way. Iris
frowns at Steve, Do you really think this is helping me, you just damaged
two police cars. Its a little too late to turn back now, Steve is really into
this chase thing, Iris just holds on for dear life. Hey I think I know a place
where we can get away from these clowns, Steve has a sly grin. As long as
it does not involve destroying anything, Iris says.
They drive about five miles up the road which opens up to a huge fair
ground; there are hundreds of tractor trailers parked in a large field. Whats
all this, Iris says. This is one of Texass largest state fairs and rodeos,
Steve drives right up though the sea of trucks. The couple quickly climbs out
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of Steves truck and mingles into the crowd. A few seconds later ten police
cars show up, and the offices spread out starting to search for them. This
state fair has thousands of people so finding Steve and Iris in not going to be
easy.
Its been fourteen days since the plane crashed near Rock Hill with
the feeding virus on it. The infected people thirst for blood has taken
complete control of their body functions, but they still look normal. Now they
are roaming the streets of Rock Hill in groups looking for blood or something
bleeding. Dead animals, bloody carcasses and trash cans become food for
them, looking for just a drop of blood to briefly satisfy their thirst.
As Sheriff Smith is driving back toward the station he sees a group of
the infected, men women, and children up ahead. He stops to watch them;
these people just walk aimlessly, no sense, no purpose just looking for the
scent of blood. The sheriff drives right up next to the group and uses the
microphone on his cruiser. Alright ladies and gentlemen there is nothing to
see out here, so return to your homes. The group of infected just ignore his
words and keep walking. Man I dont want to live like that, the sheriff
thinks. Bobby has not seen or heard from Jill in a couple of days, so he gives
her a call. Hey baby whats up, Jill says with sounds of people talking and
machines running in the back ground. How are things at work, Sheriff
Smith asks. Things are good; I am trying to get a long story about the virus
into the papers next run. I dont know if you realize it, but the people
infected with the virus have changed, the sheriff says. How have they
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changed baby? They are walking around in packs looking for human
blood. You cant be serious everyone looked normal this morning when I
can to work, Jill puts the phone under her chin as she tries to talk and work.
Bobby look, were trying to get these stores out cant this wait, Jill is
becoming impatient. No, it cant waitjust look out the window, he shouts.
Jill finally takes the time and walks over to fifth story window, she sees about
thirty people surrounding the garbage cans in the back of the building, and
some walking in front as well. Oh my God, what are they looking for? They
are looking for blood, so you need to hurry up and finish what youre doing; I
am coming over there to pick you up, Sheriff Bobby Smith hangs up and
walks over to the gun locker at the station. Whats going on Sheriff, Peggy
asks. I want you keep all the doors and windows locked and dont let
anyone in, the sheriff grabs an extra shotgun out of the cabinet. Sheriff,
will you please tell me whats going on, Peggy grabs him by the arm. The
infected people are starting to roam the streets looking for fresh blood; its
no telling what they will do next. I am going to pick up Jill at the
newspaper. Alright.be careful, Peggy says.
A young man named Richard has just got off from Wal-Mart where he
works as a security guard, he has to do this and another job to make ends
meet, so he has not had time keep up with the virus. On his way home
Richard is fighting to stay away when one of the infected steps right out in
front of him, he has to swerve and runs into a telephone pole, banging his
head against the steering wheel. Blood starts to pour from the cut on the
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Richards head, all the infected stop walking and sniff the air. Hundreds of
infected people surround his Jeep grabbing Richard and pulling him out, they
begins ripping at his flesh as Richard screams for help. Sheriff Bobby Smith
happens to be coming up the street, but its too late to help the poor man,
there are just too many of them. All Bobby can only try to turn a deaf ear to
the man screams as he drives away. I wonder if it will ever be the same,
Bobby thinks.
When Sheriff Bobby Smith makes it to the Herald, Rock Hills
newspaper building it is surrounded with infected people. He gets out pulling
the extra shotgun; Bobby places one of the guns on his shoulder and carries
the other shotgun in his hand, hes now ready for anything that comes.
Bobby walks by a group of infected standing by the door; they stop walking
and sniff the air. He pulls the pump back on the shotgun. Before Bobby
knows it one of them rushes up and sniffs his clothes. Hes terrified, but
keeps his cool long enough until the man walks away.
The sheriff steps into the lobby of the building and calls Jill. Hey this
is Bobby what floor are you on, I am on the fifth floor, but we are going to
be a few more minutes; Ive got to finish this. Everyone is working to help Jill
get this story to print, so they dont even notice her on the phone. Bobby
starts to take the elevator, but decides to take the stairs instead. No one
knows that on the third floor Fred one of the maintenance men is working on
one of the big printers that have been jamming up for the past couple of

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days. Fred has a large pipe wrench trying to tighten a large bolt, but his hand
slips and the wrench cuts his finger, blood begins to pour from it.
All of a sudden the infected people outside stop walking and sniff the
air, something has triggered them their teeth and nails grow now they storm
into the building. Bobby is on the second floor stairwell when he hears a herd
of people coming his way, he raises the shotgun and prepares to fire. It
seemed like only an instant several snarling people come charging at him,
Bobby fires hitting one of the men in the head, blood and brain matter
splatters everywhere. The sheriff runs up the remaining flights of stairs,
looking back every few minutes to see if any of them is following him. The
crowd stops to feed on the man, which gives Bobby a chance to get up stairs
to the fifth floor, rush in the door close and lock it.
Sheriff Smith is terrified sweat is pouring off of him, he realizes the
infected are in the building and will eventually find fresh human blood, if
anyone has a cut or scrap they will become dinner for these monsters. What
in the world happened to you sheriff, and why do you have all those guns.
You look like youve seen a ghost, Jill says. I did see a ghost about thirty of
them; look you need to wrap up what youre doing and get out of this place,
Bobby paces back and forth as everyone gives him a strange look. This
place is going to be overrun by crazed infected people we all need to get out
of here, Bobby shouts. Sheriff I know youve been under a lot of stress, just
relax everything will be fine, Mr. McDonald Jills boss says. Sir with all due
respect you need to look out the window then youll see. Mr. McDonald
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frowns but walks over to the window, Oh my God what are all those people
doing out there? Those people are infected with the virus, theyre behavior
has drastically changed, and now they are in this building, all of you need to
go now, Bobby says. Several of the workers look scared staring at their boss
for some direction. Everything is going to be fine, come on let finish this
project, Mr. McDonald says trying to ignore what Bobby is saying.
While all this is going on Fred the maintenance man has climbed to
the top of the printer, and is surrounded by the infested men, women, and
children, they are growling at the terrified man while grabbing at his feet.
Fred tries to scream but the loud noise of all the large printers running covers
his cries for help. One of infected men tries to climb up on the printer to get
Fred, but he falls into the fast moving teeth and is cut to pieces. Another
maintenance man named Randy happens to walk up and see Fred, he runs to
call upstairs.
Here this is for you, a worker says handing Mr. McDonald the
telephone. This is McDonald; I dont want any bad news. I am sorry sir,
but bad news is all I have, Randy says. Sirthere is a bunch of..people
down here and they, Oh my God, the sounds of Freds screams can be
heard in the background. Whats going on down there, Mr. McDonald
shouts. Sir they are eating Fred alive. The older man looks as white as a
ghost when he hangs up the phone. Ive worked with Fred for thirty years,
is all Mr. McDonald can say. Sir whats going on, Jill shouts. Just like the
sheriff said we are being attacked, the old man sits down on a desk and
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starts to cry. Now everyone else panics and run to the stairs, Wait a minute
stop, we need to make sure no one has any cuts or open wounds. Look at the
person next to you and check them out, if anyone has something yell out,
the sheriff instructs. Four of the women have funny looks on their faces; one
of them raises her hand. Yes what is it, Sheriff Smith points to her. I know
this is going to sound nasty, but what if we are on our periods. Oh my God,
I completely forgot about that; what about you, the sheriff looks at Jill. No I
am fine, she turns red. Sheriff Smith sees and old freight elevator in the
back of the large room, Ok all of you that are on your periods come with me
we are going down the freight elevator. Now the rest of you, I want you to
listen carefully. The infected will not attack unless they smell blood, but I am
not sure if noise provokes them, so be as quiet as you can. I want two of you
to go down the steps at a time, wait about three minutes and two more go.
Dont run just walk quietly, Ill meet you at the bottom, Sheriff Smith says
trying to keep them calm.
The group of ten employees forms a line and the first two women
slowly make their way down the stairs. They are both so nervous they are
almost in tears, once they get to the third floor stairwell the door is open,
one of the women almost screams when she sees an infected man chewing
on Freds leg. Please dont scream or well both die, the other woman says.
Two of the infected stop feeding to look at them for a second, but continue
feeding.

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On the fifty floor of the Herald building, Mr. McDonald is really
nervous now, I want to go down with the women on the elevator. Sheriff
Smith frowns at him, but agrees. Come on Jill you go with us, the sheriff
motions for her. Are you sure there is enough room? Oh yeah you can
squeeze in, the other women say. They all quickly bunch into the old freight
elevator; Sheriff Smith is praying the car will hold all of them. He pulls the
black steel gate closed and pushes the button. The belts pulling the elevator
scream and then grab pulling them downward. Bobby and Jill are standing by
the gate with everyone else packing in like sardines.
When the elevator gets to the third floor the unthinkable happens the
elevator stops and the gate opens by itself, one of the infected pushed the
button for it to stop. The infected immediately smell the blood of the females
and come charging at them. Here do you know how to use this, the
sheriff hands Jill the other shotgun. But Ive never shot a gun before, Jill
looks scared. Just point and pull the trigger, but hold on real tight its got a
kick. Two of the infected get to within arms reach of them, Jills shotgun
explodes, blowing one mans head off, Bobby hits a woman in the chest
pushing her several feet back, Mr. McDonald and the others are trembling
with fear. The other infected quickly start to feed on them, Sheriff Smith
quickly closes the gate back and pushes the button so the elevator continues
down.
By the time the elevator gets to the bottom all but two of the ten
employees have made it down the stairwell. Jill hands Ralph the shotgun and
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he helps the sheriff stand guard to make sure on more infected come for
them. Finally everyone has made it out of the newspaper building, ironically
Jills story The Blood Bath in Rock Hill, gets covered in blood as the infected
fight and feed on each other inside the building. Mr. McDonald takes as many
as his SUV can hold, while Ralph takes the rest. The sheriff suggests that
they all stay together and come back for the other vehicles later. Sheriff
Bobby Smith is exhausted all the stress is taking its toll on him. While Bobby
is driving Jill to her apartment she tries to keep him talking about other
things. Man you sure were good the other night. Bobby smiles, Well thank
you so were you. Bobby starts to slow down when he sees a group of
infected in the middle of the road feeding on a deer. Here take this, Bobby
hands Jill one of his handguns this time. You sure seem bent on me having a
gun, Jill takes the weapon. This road is narrow and Ill have my hands full
trying to keep the truck under control, we dont know what the infected
might do. he says.
Slowly Bobby tries to ease by the group of infected, but some of them
stop and look up at them, a couple of them sniff the air. One man jumps on
the hood and the other jumps in the bed of the truck. The infected man in
the bed of the truck tires to grab Bobbys arm as he drives. It seemed like
only an instant Bobby has his gun out of his holster and fires, there is a loud
thud and the truck shakes when the mans body falls down. Bobby suddenly
slams on the breaks causing the other man to slip off the hood. The sheriff
seems to enjoy gunning the accelerator and running over him with the truck,
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there is a cracking sound as the heavy truck crushing the infected man, Jill
frowns at him. After a short pause Bobby says, Now.I want you to tell me
why those infected stop eating a bloody deer to come after us? Jill is
embarrassed, I am sorry Bobby, but I am on my cycle too. Dam it Jill, you
know you could have gotten all of us killed. I know; I am sorry, she says
again. He frowns at her shakes his head and then smiles, Well its over
now.
Man I havent been to a state fair in ages, Iris says as they walk
down the midway. Steve makes quick glances at her followed by a smile.
Hey lets ride the roller coaster, Iris pulls Steve by the hand. Oh no..I am
not riding that thing, he says. Ah come on please, Iris flashes her sad
green eyes. Well ok, Steve gives in. You shouldnt be afraid of anything
the way you drive your truck. Yeah, but the truck is on the ground, this
thing I dont know how high it is, Steve looks up at the tallest part of the
roller coaster. Youre not scared are you, Iris pinches the side of his face.
No, of course not, I served in Viet Nam why would I be scared of a roller
coaster, Steve proclaims. Alright, lets do this thing, Iris gives him a high
five.
While the couple stands in line waiting for their turn on the ride, they
keep looking around for the police and checking to see if anyone recognizes
Iris. I dont know how I let you talk me into this, I have never liked these
things Steve looks at the roller coaster again. He starts to leave, Oh come
on, it will be fun, she puts her arm around him. He gives in like she knew he
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would. It seems like the wait is forever Steve nervously looks at his watch
hoping this ordeal will soon be over.
Now its Steve and Iriss turn to ride the coaster, Ok sit down and
keep your hands inside the car, a young man says pulling a steel bar with a
rubber pad on it down in front of them. Steve looks terrified. Are you alright
Isis asks, but he doesnt answer. I still cant believe a man that would drive
a big truck through a road block is afraid of a roller coaster. Steve does not
respond because the car is slowly moving up the first large hill. He is afraid
to move so Steve just looks around with his eyes as they go higher and
higher. The other young people on the ride are screaming and having a good
time.
The group of four cars finally makes it to the top of the first hill and
the cars seem to come to a complete stop, then they fall very fast. The
people in the other cars are laughing and yelling as the wind pushes against
their faces. Iris has her hands up in the air and laughing her head off, while
Steve holds on for dear life. It was only a few minutes and the roller coaster
cars come to a stop again, Is it over, Steve asks. Oh no, were only half
way, Iris says. Now the cars start to climb an even bigger hill. Steve looks
down and catches a glimpse of the police searching his truck. Look over
there, he points as the car starts to fall again. All Steve can do now is hold
on and try not to let the wind take his breath.
The roller coaster ride seemed to take forever, but their car finally
comes to a stop, the bar in front of them pops up and everyone jumps out.
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Wow that was fun, lets do it again, Iris tries to pull him. On no, not
again.lets ride the Farris wheel, Steve suggests. The Farris wheel thats a
little old fashion dont you think, Iris says. Steve just smiles at her. Well at
least you want to ride something. The beautiful young woman is having the
time of her life. Catching the feeding virus and everything else that has
happened all just seems like a bad dream right now. Steve and Iris walk
through the crowd holding hands and smiling at each other. Iris pus her arm
around him, I just want to says thanks for everything. I could not have done
any of this without you. You know youre welcome, but lets ride the Farris
wheel, Steve seems insistent doing that.
Steve is glad to see the line for the Farris wheel is not half as long as
the roller coaster; they get a seat in one of the rocking metal cars in a few
minutes. Iris seems a little nervous as she steps in; Steve puts his hands
around her small waist to help her, they gaze into each others eyes. Slowly
the big wheel moves causing the cars to rock back and forth, Iris seem a
little unsure about this. Are you alright, Steve asks. Oh no I am fine, its
just been a long time since Ive been up in one if these. Once their car gets
to the top Iris looks down at the people below, she is still a little nervous.
Its funny how you can ride the roller coaster, but youre afraid of the Farris
wheel, Steve says with a smile. You just had to have something to come
back with.yeah for some reason these things terrify me, Iris admits
putting her arms around Steve to feel safer. Take a look over there, Steve
points to the field where all the police have his truck surrounded. Well it
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looks like theyve found my truck; well have to find another way out of
here. Iris sort of frowns, she has to stay with him because Steve has brought
her this far.
Next the couple enjoys cotton candy, corn dogs, and popcorn,
washed down with milkshakes and soft drinks. They ride a few more rides all
except the roller coaster, and Steve looks at his watch, We need to get
going. Alright.do you mind telling me where, Iris says. An old buddy of
mine named Billy owes me a favor. He owns a car lot not too far from here, if
we leave not we can catch him before he closes for the day, Steve explains.
They have to sneak out of the back entrance of the fair. Iris buys a big sun
hat and some more sunglasses to keep from being recognized. There are two
cops standing on either side of the exit checking people as they go out.
Steve picks up and old newspaper and pretends to be reading as he walks
out, past the policemen. Now it Iriss turn, Steve decides to take his cigarette
lighter and hold it up to the newspaper lighting it, and throwing the flaming
paper in a trashcan right outside the exit. Once the trashcan starts burning
real good the two officers rush around trying to find a fire extinguisher. Iris
walks out of the exit unnoticed.
The couple walks down the block and cab just happened to be
coming past them. Steve whistles, then screams, Hey cabby. The cab stops
mainly because he seen Iris. When Steve and Iris get to the small car lot Iris
notices a nice looking black man beginning to lock the front door. Youre not
going to lock up before you help your help your last customer, Steve says as
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he pays for the taxi. Well.I cant believe it, Steve Hudson what in the
world are you doing here? Billy walks up and the two men hug. Man how
long has it been, Billy asks. I dont know too long I guess. Now who is this
beautiful side kick, Billy stares hard at Iris. Oh this is my friend Iris Carter;
Iris meet Billy Webster the fastest draw this side of the Mekong Delta.
Excuse me my friend, but I am going by William now, he says straightening
his tie. Well I was surrounded by four Viet Cong and this William guy just
walks up, and before anyone could blink an eye, he has pulled his gun and
killed all of them, Steve says laughing loudly. Oh come on he exaggerates,
they were not four, I thought there were ten Viet Cong, William and Steve
both burst into a big laugh, while Iris sort of stands there watching the two
grown men act like little boys.
What brings you around after all this time, William is still staring at
Iris. Look this beautiful woman is in trouble, and I am trying to help her, can
we borrow on of your cars, Steve asks. Borrow one of my cars, wheres
your truck, William frowns. My truck is down right now. I cant just let you
take a car, I am trying to run a business here, William protests. I tell you
what, here are the keys to my truck you can hold it as collateral until I come
back; you know my truck is worth three times as much as one of your cars,
Steve hands him the keys. William looks at Iris; well to help this beautiful
woman, I guess its ok.
Its Christmas Day, doctors Stan Weston and Allen Bridges are at the
CDC still working on an anti-dose, but Doctor Weston is still in isolation. Hey
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man you know I want to stay and help but the other half.. Allen tries to
say. You dont have to explain you need to spend time with your family. Hey
do you realize its been fourteen days since the plane crash, Stan Weston
says. Yes, I know, Allen Bridges nods. When we created this virus it was
supposed to last only 2.4 days, and was dissipate to be undetectable.
However since the feeding virus is staying in its host for so long, it is bound
to have some adverse effect on them, Weston explains. Allen Bridges tries
to hide the worried look on his face. Its Christmas man why dont you relax
for a while maybe it will help clear your mind. Oh no, I cant stop time is
against us people are dying, Doctor Weston says pouring a green liquid into
a test tube. Dont you have some family, someone you can call on this
holiday, Doctor Bridges asks. No, my wife died of cancer seventeen years
ago; all my other kin people are gone. Dont you have a son? Yes, I have
a son named Paul, and he has not spoken to me since we worked together
creating this virus, he thought it was going to help people, Weston words
are broken as he fights back tears. Well Doctor Merry Christmas, if you need
anything just call me, all the numbers are on a paper by your computer,
Bridges says as he leaves. Merry Christmas to you too, Stan Weston
mumbles.
This Christmas day is totally different than any other; the streets of
Rock Hill are completely empty everyone is staying inside because of the
feeding virus. There are no children out playing with their new toys; no
grandmothers or grandfathers being taken out to dinner, the city looks like a
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ghost town. On this holiday Doctor Stan Weston sits alone wondering if it was
worth it, the money he got for creating the virus was nice, but none of it can
help him now. My own son wont have anything to do with me because of
this virus, Ive got to find an anti-dose, Weston goes back to work.
Another lonely man Sheriff Bobby Smith is sitting alone on this
holiday; he volunteered to watch the station so Peggy could be home with
her six years old son. Peggys marriage broke up three years ago and she
has been alone ever since. While Bobby sits thinking about his ex-wife he
hears a womans voice, You look lonely, why dont you let me out and Ill
keep you company, Mrs. Jean s Harris says. Bobby has forgotten about her
being locked up with everything else that has been going on. He just sits
there staring at the beautiful woman who winks her eye at him. Remember
she has the virus and could change and quickly kill you, Bobby thinks.
Something draws him to the set of keys to her jail cell in his desk drawer.
Mrs. Harris slowly pulls up her top revealing her large breast. Now Bobby
seems to be in a trance as he walks toward jail cell, with keys in hand and
only one thing on his mind. Bobby knows its wrong but for some reason he
wants her.
Right when Bobby starts to put the key in the lock, the phone rings
and he seems to snap back to reality. Oh hey Jill, Bobby watches as Mrs.
Harris pulls her top back down with a frown on her face. Merry Christmas to
you too, Bobby catches a glimpse of Mrs. Harriss eyes and they look as
black as coal. Why dont I come over and keep you company, Ive already
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talked to my mother and all the other kin folks, Jill suggests. Sure its
boring around here today; everyone is staying inside because of the virus.
Ive made you a cake; Ill be over in just a minute, Jill sounds excited. Be
careful you know some of the infected are roaming around, Bobby says. Jill
arrives about an hour later, she and Bobby spend Christmas Day talking,
laughing, and stealing kisses.
A beautiful eight foot Christmas tree sits in the middle of the living
room at the Walton residence in Washington D.C. It is surrounded by many
presents and two excited kids. Skip Walton just sits on the sofa watching his
family thinking about all the innocent families of Rock Hill South Carolina that
will die in less than a week. Ive got to do something, Skip gets up and
quietly walks down to the basement. While everyone is enjoying their gifts,
Skip gets on the computer to look up the telephone number for the CDC.

CHAPTER TEN

In Atlanta Doctor Bridges had all the telephone wired to ring in Stan
Westons room since he and security are the only ones in the building for the
holiday. Stan is seriously at work when the phone rings, he does not realize it

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at first, but then it dawns on him to answer. CDC how can I help you? Can
I speak to Doctor Allen Bridges please, Skip asks. I am sorry sir, but
everyone is gone for the holidays they wont be back until Monday, Stan
Weston says. There is a long silence, Is there anything I can help you with?
Stan stops working and looks for a note pad. No thanks I need to give
Doctor Bridges some information about Rock Hill South Carolina. Rock
Hill..what kind of information, Stan Weston asks. Oh its confidential, its
about the virus, Skip admits. Are you talking about the virus on the military
plane that crashed near there about fourteen days ago? Skip is shocked; he
thought with such a high security clearance on the Feeding Virus, no one else
would have this information. How do you know so much about this virus,
Skip asks. Sir I am Doctor Stan Weston, I created the Feeding Virus; I am
here at the CDC in quarantine because I caught the virus trying to come up
with an anti-dose. Oh and I suppose to believe you, Skip snaps. Well son
right now I am all youve got unless you wait until Monday, Stan is losing
patience. I dont mean any harm, but do you have a way to get a message
to Doctor Bridges, Skip asks. Yes as a matter of fact I do. Well tell him
that the Joint Chiefs are planning on wiping out Rock Hill if you guys dont
come up with an anti-dose by New Years, Skip sits down on the sofa in the
basement. What a minute, who are you, Stan asks. I am Skip Walton an
administrator for the Joint Chiefs of staff. My God.. Youre saying they are
going to bomb Rock Hill, Stan shouts. Yes, thats exactly what I am saying,
unless you come up with an anti-dose. Man..Ill call Doctor Bridges right
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now, thanks for the information, Stan Weston hangs up, quickly calling his
friend.
Once Steve and Iris leave El Paso they make really good time
because Iris can help drive, now that they are in a car. During one of their
conversations she asks about Steves marriage. If you dont mind me asking
what caused you and your wife to break up? Iris seemed a lot more
comfortable with Steve now. He gives her a hard stare, I am sure the main
cause was because I was on the road all the time. I wont forget my first time
out as a new driver, I went to California; I begged my wife to come with me
and she refused. No matter how much I begged she would not go on the road
with me, and I am not sure why, Steve looks like he wants to cry. Thats a
shame, were you driving a truck when you met her? Yes she worked in a
truck stop where I fueled up. Steve seems like a good man that just had a
bad wife, Iris thinks.
Honey this is for you, Allen Bridges wife says giving him the
telephone. Yes this is Allen Bridges. Allen this is Stan; Ive got some news,
but I think you need to get over here. What have you found an anti-dose,
Allen yells. No, but I cant tell you over the phone, Stan hangs up. Baby
Ive got to go to the office for a little while, Allen grabs his coat. Allen its
Christmas cant this wait? his wife has an irritated look on her face. Ill be
back in a few minutes you know we are working on the anti-virus, he kisses
her on the forehead and rushes out the door.

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Steve is sound to sleep, Iris is driving; Steve we are a few miles out
of San Antonio, the car is about empty and Ive got to pee. Man.how long
was I sleep, Steve says as he stretches. You were sleep for almost three
hours, but I took care of everything, so what kind of gas do you want, Iris
looks for the signs. The cheap kind this is not my car, Steve says. Iris pulls
into the first gas station she sees. Steve gets out stretches, swipes his card
and pumps the gas, noticing that the station is very old and small. Are you
going to use the bathroom in a place like this, he yells. Oh yeah, Ive got to
pee, Iris keeps walking. The wind has started to pick up and thick dark
clouds begin to roll into the area. I guess we are going to run into rain, I
hope those wipers work, Steve thinks.
Iris walks into a small gas station that looks several decades behind
times. There are only two aisles one for the candy and the other for chips,
and a cooler for sodas. Do you have a restroom, Iris asks the old man is
standing behind a cabinet with outdated souvenirs in it, and a register on
top. Yeah, its out back, he gives her a key with a large piece of metal tied
to it. Reluctantly Iris takes the key and quickly walks behind the building. A
door that was once white is filthy with dirt and stains; Iris sticks the key in
the only new part of the door, the lock. She pushes the door open and sees
an even filthier room with a dirty toilet and a very nasty sink. The once white
walls are filled with graffiti and stains of all kinds. She slides down her jeans
and underwear and sort of squats over the nasty toilet. The restroom is very
cold, but Iris has the strange feeling that someone is watching her. She does
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not realize that the owners teenage grandson has drilled a hole, through the
wall from the mens room to the womens room, and he is the mens room
watching Iris.
Once Steve has finished pumping the gas he has to use the restroom
too, so he walks inside the station. Do you have a restroom? Yeah its in
the back, the old man also gives him a key with a piece of metal tied to it.
Steve walks around the building wondering what Iris is doing so long. He
starts to use the key but the door is already open. When Steve walks in there
is a teenage boy on his knees by the wall looking at something. It suddenly
dawns on him the boy is looking through the wall at Iris in the womens
restroom. The young man is so into what hes doing so he barley notices
Steve.
With Steves long legs he only has to take a couple of steps and hes
right next to the young man. You low down pervert, so youre spying on my
woman, Steve grabs the boy by the collar and punches him in the stomach.
The boy goes to his knees gasping for air. Please misterI was just having a
little fun, he pleads. Steve punches him again, and pulls a forty five out of
his pants placing it in the mans face. Come on man. Its not that serious,
the young boy is terrified. Come with me, Steve drags the young man by
his collar and pulls him to the front of the gas station, still pointing the gun at
him.
Iris still has a feeling that someone is watching her, but she finishes
in the restroom and makes her way to the front of the building, suddenly she
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hears shouting. I want you to know this perverted boy is peeping at my
woman through a hole he made in the wall of the restroom, Steve shouts
waving the gun at them. Look mister; I am sorry, but there is no reason to
get violent, the old man pleads. Do you know there are laws against
perverts like this, Steve shouts. Steve.whats going on, Iris steps in
looking surprised at Steve holding a gun. This pervert was watching you
from the mens restroom, Steve yells. Oh really, now Iris is angry. Oh in
that case do whatever you want to them, Iris walks back to the car hoping
Steve doesnt kill them; she is in enough trouble already.
Look mister, I dont want any trouble, there is not much money but
whatever is in the register you can have, just dont kill us, the old man says.
I need to call the police and report this pervert, Steve says. The old man
opens the register and starts taking the money out. Steve points the gun at
both of them, Heres what we are going to do; I am not going to take all of
your money because that would be robbery, so what I want is the money I
paid you for gas, and well call it even. But you paid with a credit card, the
old mans words are broken, and nervous. Just give it to me in cash, Steve
shouts. Ok heres sixty dollars, that should settle things, the old man gives
him the money.
Iris gets worried because Steve is taking so long. Finally she sees him
in the rearview mirror walking toward the car smiling. So what happened,
she asks. Well that pervert was watching you in the restroom, Steve sits
down in the drivers seat and puts his money in his wallet. What did you do
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to them, Iris still wants to know. I only scared them, the man gave me my
gas money back plus twenty dollars, Steve says with a big smile. Iris is not
impressed; she stares at him for a moment. Steve I have to tell you I dont
like guns, where did you get that one? I had this thing ever since I started
driving trucks. What would you have done if that thing had accidently went
off, Iris asks. It cant go off there are no bullets, Steve pushes the button
on the side of the gun an empty clip falls out. He reaches in his pocket and
shows Iris the full clip. Man .you are something else, Iris says with a
smile.
When Doctor Bridges gets to the CDC Stan Weston is waiting for him.
Ok whats so important you couldnt tell me over the phone, Allen takes off
his coat. I got a call from an administration assistant to the Joint Chiefs of
Staff, a man named Skip Walton, Stan explains. Ok and. Allen Bridges
wonders if his friend is not losing it. According to Skip the Joint Chiefs plan to
destroy Rock Hill unless we come up with an anti-dose by New Years. You
cant be serious, where did this Skip get this information. I was there and no
one said anything about destroying Rock Hill, Allen sits down and looks into
the monitor. Maybe it happened after you left, I dont know but the young
man sounded serious. Did he give any names of who was supposed to
have said this, Allen asks. No, he did not mention any names, so you think
its a fabrication of some type. I am not sure maybe this guy wants a
promotion or the publicity of being involved some way. I just cant see the
government wiping out a whole city. There would have to be some
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investigation, so if they are trying to hide something this would make it
worse, Allen explains. Maybe they are trying to cover up the Feeding Virus
because it was a top secret weapon, Skip might be telling the truth. Well if
thats true then they will be coming for you next, Allen adds. Stan Weston
sort of smiles, You know what now that I have this virus I am almost dead
anyway, so it wont matter. Dont say that, were going to beat this thing,
Allen Bridges frowns. Stan Weston forces a smile, Ok, we need to get to
work on this anti-dose just in case Skip knows what hes talking about.
Its two days after Christmas; Skip Walton has spent a quiet holiday
with his wife and children opening gifts and playing games. His daughter
challenged him to a dance game on the Wii, and they all get a kick out of
watching Skip with his uncoordinated self-try to dance. With the teenage kids
home for so many days the food quickly runs out. Skip be a sweetheart and
run down to the store and pick up a few things, his wife Claudia says. He
was glad to get out of the house for a while for some peace and quiet.
Here you go baby, Claudia says giving him almost a full page of
things. This looks like a regular shopping list. You know when the kids are
home we eat more, so just be careful and hurry back, she gives him a quick
kiss. Skip climbs into his new BMW wondering if he should get gas while hes
at the bottom of the hill. Ever since Skip was a kid he has always wanted a
house on a hill, and now he has one, and the view of DC is gorgeous
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As skip makes his way around the winding curves heading to the
store it seems like another car is following him. Skip does not give it second
thought except in the grocery store a strange man seems to always be on
the same aisle he is. He tries to approach the man to see who it is, but the
man quickly ducks into a crowd or disappears someway. Now Skip is a little
concerned, Could this man really be following me because I called Doctor
Bridges.
On his way home Skip notices the same car following him all the way
to the street that he lives on. Once Skip gets ready to turn in his driveway
the car pulls up beside him, the passengers side window goes down and
Skip can see the man clearly now. The man raises his hand as if it was a gun
and points his finger at Skip, making the motion like he is shooting at him,
then the car speeds away. Skip is too shocked to even get the license plate.
Now the thirty year old man is so nervous he can barely walk, Skip is shaking
like a leaf as he carries the bags inside. Whats wrong honey, are you
getting sick, Claudia asks. No, I am not getting sick; at least I dont think
so. Skip sets the bags on the kitchen table walks in the living room and sits
down. He starts to think about the other people that have tried to blow the
whistle on the Joint Chiefs; they have either died mysteriously or
disappeared. Skip turns on the TV and just stares at the screen as all these
thoughts run through his head.
The rain is pouring down as Steve and Iris make their way to Huston
Texas. Man these wipers are useless, Steve complains as he struggles to
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see. We must be running into some type of front or something, Iris is
beginning to get nervous. If you cant see why dont you just pull over until
it passes? We are only an hour away from Huston according to last sign,
Steve changes the radio station looking for something about the weather.
Ok listen up everyone in case you havent heard Hurricane Katy is expected
to make land fall within the hour. Anyone in the Huston Texas area that is
outdoors needs to seek shelter immediately, this is a very dangerous storm
with winds over ninety miles an hour, the man on the radio says. Oh my
God Steve we need to find a place right now, Iris shouts. I saw a sign that
said of all thingsthe city of Katy two miles away, so we can get off the
highway there, Steve is still struggling to see through the water covered
windows. Thats ironic that the town is named after the hurricane. Iris sees
the image of something large coming right at them moving very fast, Oh
Steve. watch out. A whole highway sign is coming right at them, Steve
swerves and a part of the sign bangs against the passengers door causes Iris
to jump. Man that was close, Steve says. Iris cant answer she has turned
as white as a ghost.
Back in DC, Skip is on edge for the rest of the holiday snapping at the
kids and his wife. Finally that night Claudia asks, Honey whats wrong with
you, ever since you went to the store youve been acting strange; are you
sick or something. No, I am not sick, Skip says almost shouting. He looks
at Claudia and says, If something ever happens to me, I want you to take
the kids to California with your sister. Move to California, I hate California
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were not moving there, so tell me whats going on, his wife insists. All I can
tell you it has something to do with the job, so just do what I ask you. Tears
begin to fall from Claudias face now unsure about their future. Just
remember I love you baby, Skip hugs her remembering when they first met.
I love you too, Claudia kisses and holds him. They make love and Claudia
falls to sleep, but Skip lies there wondering if the government would really
kill him for telling the horrible plan they have to kill thousands of innocent
people.
Just up ahead Steve finally sees the sign that says Katy one mile,
slowly he eases the car off the highway trying to be careful not to hit
anything. They can see a four lane road with gas stations and restaurants
every few miles. Luckily there is a sign of a hotel, but its off the main road
back in the woods. Steve has to drive very slowly because the rain is being
pushed by the wind, and even with good wipers it would be hard to see. He
pulls the car up under the covered entrance in front of the hotel, but the
wind-blown rain is still fierce. I am going up to see if anyone is inside,
Steve grabs his jacket placing it over his head. Trying to run in rain like this is
useless because Steve is soaked before he gets a few feet from the car. Once
he gets to the front doors they are locked with plywood nailed up in front of
them. Oh man, no one is here, Steve knocks anyway, waits a few minutes
and returns to the car. Was anyone there, Iris asks. I dont think so, the
doors are boarded up. What are we going to do now, Iris looks scared. The
wind is so strong now its uprooting trees, Steve even looks worried. All of a
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sudden a large section of a tree rams in the back of the car pushing them
forward. What was that? Iris asks her eyes full of fear. Steve quickly sticks
his head out the door, That was a tree section.
I dont think we should.. someone comes up to Iriss window and
knocks. Iris jumps her nerves are really on edge now. What are you two
doing out here, an old man shouts. He motions for Iris to roll down her
window. We were on our way to Huston when this storm hit, Steve yells
above the sound of the wind and rain. Look we are closed, but I guess you
can come in and stay until morning, the old man looks at Iris. Ok that
would be great, Steve and Iris follow the man around the side of the hotel
trying to keep the wind and rain off their faces.
It felt really good to get out of the rain, the hotel is completely silent
and a welcome sight to the two wet and cold travelers. This is really nice of
you sir, Iris says shaking the old mans hand. He smiles checking out Iriss
beautiful body, Steve frowns. What are your names, the man asks. I am
Steve and this is Iris, Steve shakes his hand. My name is Mr. Whitmore; I
am the owner operator of this hotel. I am on my way to South Carolina,
Iris says. South Carolina, youre a long way from home, but you wont be
going anywhere tonight its really bad out there, as the old man is talking
there is a loud crash, another tree falls near the hotel.
The hotel is empty like I said; Ill put you two on the second floor so
you can have your privacy, the old man smiles at Iris, and gives Steve a key
card. Thank you very much.how much do I owe you. Well since youre
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the only customers, its on the house, Mr. Whitmore says. Thank you very
much, Steve and Iris both say walking to the elevator. Iris is so nervous she
is shaking, I am not climbing in bed with a man I just met. Steve is
handsome, but what if I have a reaction, she thinks. Silence fills the elevator
as they ride to the second floor. Steve and Iris both want to say something,
but are afraid. The bell for the floor seems to be extra loud for some reason,
when they step off the elevator Steve finally says, Look I know you dont
want to climb into bed with a man you just met so Ill sleep on the floor or on
a sofa if they have one. Iris smiles, Yes that is a good idea.
They walk into a spacious room with a king size bed, and a sofa with
a hid-a-bed. Thats perfect, Steve blurts out. He pulls out the mattress
attached to a metal frame and falls across it. I am so ready to get some
sleep, Steve pulls off his shirt and walks to the restroom, Iris admire his
well-shaped body. While he is behind the closed door Iris slips into the hot
pants and a tee-shirt she wore earlier. Once Steve and Iris lay down the
roaring wind and rain can clearly be heard, the storm is not easing up. Man
that sounds bad, Iris says. Steve turns on the TV, Hurricane Katy is making
land fall as we speak, everyone within fifty miles of coast need to seek
higher ground because we are expecting a very high storm surge, the
weather man says. I wonder how far we are from the coast, Iris asks. I am
not sure my atlas is in my truck. Steve has taken off his pants; he gets up
and walks into the kitchen for a drink of water. Iris notices the bulge in the
front of his underwear and this excites her. It has been almost two years
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since she has had sex. Iriss need for sex causes her to forget about having
a reaction. All that riding has made my back sore, could you rub my back,
Iris says with a sexy voice and a smile. Steve is surprised since he was the
one who volunteered to sleep on the sofa.
With his big strong hands Steve pulls up her tee-shirt and begins to
rub the beautiful womans back. With each movement up and down her back
Iris become more and more relaxed, and aroused. Steve does not know it,
but she is not wearing any underwear. Iris rolls over and slides off her hot
paints, Now can you massage my front. Steve is already aroused, he has
wanted her since they first met; the thoughts of the storm and the virus are
put aside now. The big man pulls off his boxers and gets into position. Iriss
eyes open wide as Steves long hard erection penetrates deep inside her, Iris
moans from the pain and the pleasure. They are both getting into the feeling
when Iris hears the sound of breaking glass and furniture banging into the
wall. What was that, Iris says pushing Steve off of her. What.I didnt
hear anything, Steve frowns wanting to finish. He thinks Iris is imagining
thinks. It was the sound of something ramming into the wall, it came from
downstairs, Iris stands up and slides her pants back on. Steve does the
same and walks to the window; he pulls the curtain back and is speechless
for a moment. Oh my God were trapped. What do you mean, Iris runs to
the window; there is six foot of water surrounding the hotel. My God Steve
what are we going to do? Just try to stay calm, let me go down stairs and

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see if there is a way out, Steve kisses Iris on the forehead and starts
downstairs.
Steve knows not to take the elevator so he heads for the stairwell.
After going halfway down one flight of steps he hears the sound of water and
things bumping against the wall. When Steve gets to first floor water is
seeping through the cracks around the door the metal door. He eases up
close enough to look through a long narrow window not believing the water
rose this fast. Suddenly Mr. Whitmores body bumps against the door. The
poor mans eyes are wide open reveling the terror of how he died, Steve
jumps back. He suddenly hears a loud sound of metal tearing, the door is
about to give way, Steve runs back up the steps. There is a loud crash as the
metal door, and pieces of cinderblock slams into the steps and is bounced
around by the rushing water.
By the time Steve gets back to the second floor the water is right
behind him, he rushes back into the room slamming the door. Well is there
another way out, Iris asks. Steve has his hands on his knees trying to catch
his breath. No, but there is six feet of water downstairs and its rising fast,
Steve tries to catch his breath. What about the manager Isis asks. Hes
dead..we have to go now, Steve grabs Iris by the arm while she is trying
to get her things. We dont have time for that, lets go, he insists. Once
they open the door the water is already to their waist, and coming in from
everywhere, around pipes and through vents. Do you think this is safe, Iris

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says noticing the electrical fixtures in the ceiling above them. Just try to
stay calm and keep moving, Steve instructs.
Skip Walton does not have to return to work until after New Years, so
he does everything to relax and enjoy his off-time. Skip has not had a chance
to run because things have been hectic at work, so this morning he takes a
jog. As the young man runs he thinks, I wonder if telling the doctors about
the plan to wipe out Rock Hill was such a good idea, because General
Applewood is such a vengeful person.
Back at Skips house a strange car drives past the house one time
and then pulls up into the driveway. A man dressed in blue coveralls quickly
gets on the ground and slides under Skips car. The two young Walton boys
who happened to be playing the living room, gaze out the window wondering
who this guy is, Ok kids its time for lunch, Claudia their mother says. They
only nod their heads but continue to stare at the man. What are you two
looking at, Claudia walks over to the window. That man is fixing dads car,
they say together. Claudia sees a very thin white man get off the ground and
look straight at her, and then he gets in his car and drives off. Claudia does
not think anything of it, Maybe Skip told someone to come by and look at
his car. Ok guys wash your hands, its time for lunch.
When Skip and Claudia first looked at their dream home she was not
impressed especially because of large hill to get up to the place. Skip got a
great deal on this house probably because the old couple that owned it got
tired of driving the winding curves to get up or down. Right now skip is
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jogging back up some of these curves and it is a grueling workout. Once Skip
gets back to his driveway he stops puts his hands on his knees gasping for
air. Wow that was some run, he pants. Come on in and get some lunch
honey, Claudia says sticking her head out the door. Yeah sure what are we
having, Skip groans when he straightens up his bad back, an old football
injury seems to be acting up. We got turkey from the holiday; Claudia has
already cut him some. Great, do we have mayo, he asks. Oh baby I forgot
to put it on the list, Claudia admits. Dag baby, you know I dont like turkey
without mayo; Ill just run down the hill and get some, Skip grabs his car
keys and cell phone as he rushes to the door. Hurry back honey, Claudia
begins cutting more turkey because the boys are eating Skips pieces.
Skip tosses his cell phone in the passengers seat of his BMW
because his jogging suit does not have any pockets. He just purchased the
blue Beemer a couple of months ago and it really preforms on these large
hills. Right after Skip rounds the third turn his cell phone rings. Yeah baby
do you need something else, he asks. No I was just wondering who that
guy was that was working on your car today, Claudia says. Skips car is
moving a little too fast now, and when he tries to apply the brakes, the pedal
goes all the way to the floor. What guy, Skip shouts. A guy was here doing
something to your car while you were jogging. Oh my God my car does
not have any brakes. If anything happens to me make sure Skips phone
goes dead. Oh no. kids stay right here, Ill be right back, Claudia rushes
to her SUV she does not have time to get them ready.
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There have been so many accidents around the sharp curves leading
to Skips subdivision the city decided to build a two foot high brick wall
around the really bad curves. When Claudia gets half way down the hill she
sees a hole in one of the walls. She stops and jumps out running over to the
edge, about two hundred yards down a rocky cliff a blue BMW is engulfed in
flames. Oh God no, Claudia burst into tears and tries to call 911. Her
fingers are trembling so bad she can barely dial the three numbers. 911
emergencies how may I help you, the woman says. Help, help, my
husbands car just went over a cliff, Claudias voice is broken as she fights
back the tears. Ok ma-am I know youre upset, but where are you? I am at
theits twenty ninth street north westI am on the hill. Claudia finally gets
out. Just stay right there, help is on the way.
Steve and Iris are trapped inside the hotel wading through waist high
water that is still rising. Iris is terrified as she watches sparks pop from lights
on the wall as the water touches them. When they finally get to the last
stairwell the back of the hotel, the force of water against the door makes it
very hard to open. The couple has to pull with everything they have until the
metal door finally opens, and the rushing water pushes them up stairs to the
next floor. Iris slips and falls twisting her ankle, she seems ready to give up.
Come on we cant stop now, Steve helps her up putting her arm around his
neck. We got to keep moving the water is still rising.
There are only four floors to this small hotel, but when Steve and Iris
get to top floor there is a ladder instead of stairs leading to a small door in
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the ceiling. Steve quickly climbs up the ladder but the small door has a
padlock on it. Oh no, its locked, he shouts. The water has made it to the
top floor and is still rising. What are we going to do now, Iris is in tears
from the pain in her ankle and realizing this might be the end. Drastic times
require drastic measures, Steve pulls the forty five out of the back of his
pants and slides a loaded clip into it. Get over there out of the way this
bullet might go anywhere, Steve instructs. Iris moves as far away as she
can and turns her head. He points the gun and pulls the trigger but nothing
happens. It must have gotten wet, Steve points the gun at the lock and
pulls the trigger again, this time a loud echo rings in their ears as the
padlock burst into pieces. He helps Iris up the ladder first, and by the time
Steve gets all the up the ladder, the water stops just a few inches from the
small door, they are finally safe on the roof. Wow that was close; I have to
say you always come up with some way to get us out of a tight spots, Iris
kisses and hugs Steve tightly, he wants to make love, Not one the roof,
she complains. Well, all we have to do now is wait for someone to pick us
up, Steve and Iris sits down and try to get comfortable.
Its four days after Christmas and Doctors Weston and Bridges still
dont have an anti-dose yet. In Pasadena California the feeding virus is
starting to spread. Denise Woods works in an office building only a block
from Los Angeles coliseum where the Rose Bowl is played. Denise has been a
diabetic for almost ten years, but her doctor has warned her about checking
her blood sugar regularly, so while at her desk she decides to do it while
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things are a little slow. Roger Ackerman who is also an accountant works a
few desks over from Denise and has been coughing for the past few days.
As soon as the small drop of blood comes out of Denises finger Roger
stands up and screams holding his head, the pain is stronger than he has
ever felt. Other workers get up and look over the partitions that divide the
offices to see whats going on. Roger goes to his knees and begins to
change. A woman that happens to be walking by sees Rogers jaws stretch
way out of proportion; his teeth grow so long they protrude from his mouth.
When Roger looks at her she can see his eyes are coal black, he growls like a
wolf and jumps over the proportion onto Denise before she knows whats hits
her. Rogers sharp teeth rip opens the womans throat and blood splashes on
the walls and people sitting nearby. The remaining employees run out of the
office screaming, someone calls 911. However by the time the police get to
the building Roger is gone, and now officials are worried about the Rose Bowl
coming up in a few days.
Back in Rock Hill the phone calls are flooding in about the infected
people roaming the streets and some of them are trying to sneak out of the
city, the National Guard is asked to send extra help. General Applewood has
some of the Army scientist come up with a virus testing kit and has them
placed at all the blockades. These kits come with manuals explaining how to
use the kit and what to do if someone fails the test. The manual states, If a
person is acting erratically in any way or trying to leave the city they are to
be tested. While during the test if a person shows signs of a reaction like
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screaming from pain or has facial changes they are to shot without
question.
The testing kits look like a small lunch box with six compartments
filled with fresh blood and covered with a plastic top. The infected person has
to stand within two feet of the sample for it to be an effective test. General
Applewood knows that an infected person cant hide a reaction once it is set
off by fresh blood. Since the quarantine of Rock Hill began some of the
soldiers have become bored and they welcome some excitement. However
whats about to happen to one station the soldiers will wish for the boring
days again.
Its a typical cold December afternoon everything is quiet at blockade
station number four until an approaching car seems to be turning around
several times. An old man pulls up to the guard shack looking lost. I am
sorry sir, but you cant leave the city, one of the soldiers says. Henry
Simpson a seventy four year old grandfather is taking his granddaughter to
get some ice cream. He has been suffering from Alzheimers disease and
gets lost very easily. Sargent King the leader of the soldiers thinks Henry is
drunk or suffering from the virus. Sir, I have to ask you to step out of the car
please, Sargent King says. Oh that wont be necessary; I am just taking my
granddaughter to get some ice cream. Two other soldiers pull their rifles off
their shoulders and point them at the old man. Ok, out of the car, now sir,
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Slowly Henry slides his legs out of the car and stands up. Ok the girl
too, Sargent King insists. Pamela, Henrys granddaughter does not want to
get out shes afraid of the soldiers. Come on baby this wont take long and
then we can get your ice cream, Henry holds out his hand and the seven
year old takes it and slides across the seat of the old Chevy. You have to be
tested for the virus before you can leave, Sargent King motions for one of
the soldiers to get the test kit. Oh I dont have that virus, look at me, Henry
says. Ok but this is procedure sir, stand right there, they point to a painted
spot on the ground. Henry can see the soldiers are serious so he stands on
the spot. Sargent King pulls the cap off one of the containers of blood and
they nervously watch him. Henry stares back at them for several minutes but
nothing happens. Ok now the girl, Sargent King instructs. But grandpa I
dont like tests, Pamela complains. She really doesnt have to tested, shes
only seven years old, Henry pleads. Yes, she has to be tested its
procedure. Sargent King slides the top off the second container of blood.
Pamela is very nervous suddenly she breaks loose from Henry and starts
running. Grab her, Sargent King shouts. When one of the soldiers reaches
to grab the little girl she falls to her knees screaming from the pain in her
head. Right before their eyes the seven year old begins to change, her little
jaws begin to stretch; the girls teeth grow out past her lips. Pamelas eyes
turn coal black and roll back into her head, then she growls at all of them and
takes off running to the woods just outside the city. Shot her, Sargent King
shouts. I cant shoot a little girl, one of the soldiers mumbles. Sargent King
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raises his rifle takes aim, right when he gets ready to fire Henry grabs the
rifle and it goes off in his chest. The old man has shocked look on his face as
he falls to the ground. Pamela gets almost to the woods when a shot rings
out hitting her in the shoulder, spinning Pamela around, but she keeps
running. My God Sargent King you just killed a grandfather and wounded a
seven year old, the other soldier says frowning at him.
Its a little after midnight now in Washington D.C. and the rain is
pouring down, Claudia has to go home and take the boys to a neighbors
house and return to the scene. Ok Mrs. Walton let me ask you again, was
your husband drinking tonight? the police officer says. No, he was not
drinking, Skip went to the store to get some mayo, thats all, Claudia
watches as a large wrecked pulls the remains of Skips car up the steep hill
filled with rocks. Since it looks like your husband was killed his car it will be
examined to find the cause of the accident. Alright Mrs. Walton that will be
all for now, well be in touch, the police office says. When Claudia gets
home she calls her sister and gives her the bad news. Oh sis I am so sorry,
what can I do? It would be a big help if you would come and take the boys
to your house. No problem Ill be right there, her sister Linda says
grabbing her keys and rushing out the door.
Claudia is alone now the thought of an empty house without Skip is
too much to bear; she falls across the bed and weeps bitterly. After several
hours of crying Claudia falls to sleep and dreams about Skip, oh how she
misses him, his touch, his laughter, and the way he made love to her. For
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some strange reason Claudia senses his presence, Has Skips ghost come to
visit me already, she thinks. Suddenly there is tapping sound on what
seems like glass, Claudia looks around but there is no glass in their bedroom.
Its quiet for a moment and she hears it again. Am I dreaming, she says
straining to open her eyes. Claudia is now sitting on the side of the bed and
the strange sound continues, I know I am not dreaming now, Skip has a gun
in the top of the hall closet but shes afraid to use it so Claudia grabs one of
Skips gulf clubs the driver and starts downstairs.
If it were a burglar would they be pecking on the glass, Claudia now
realizes the sound is coming from the kitchen door. She makes slow
disciplined steps toward, whatever or whoever it is. The frightened womans
heart is racing now, but shes ready for this intruder. When Claudia gets to
the dining room just outside the kitchen the tapping is much louder, she uses
the wall to hide behind and slowly peeps around the doorframe. A bolt of fear
runs through her like hot wax melting down the side of a candle, there is
someone at the door and hes trying to get in. Oh God if Skip was here he
would protect me, Claudia thinks. Her arms tremble as she raises the gulf
club to make a stand. The light switch is right by the kitchen door, Maybe if I
turn on the outside light hell run away. Once she steps into the kitchen,
Claudia uses the gulf club to extend her reach. The closer the gulf club gets
to the switch the more Claudias arm shakes, three feet, two feet, one foot,
the light is on. Claudia drops the gulf club, her eyes bulging from shock, its
Skip, and hes standing right outside the door. Am I still dreaming, can this
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be real, she thinks still just standing there. Come on baby open the door,
Skip says almost in a whisper. Oh my God .I thought you was dead,
Claudia opens the door grabbing Skip, hugging him tightly and bursting into
tears. I know, I jumped out of the car just before it went over the cliff, but
keep your voice down, I dont them to know I am still alive, Skip whispers
taking off his dirty jacket, his clothes are filled with mud. You dont want
who to know youre alive..Skip whats going on, Claudia is trying to
understand. Where are the kids, he looks nervous. I sent them to my
sisters house. Good, remember I told you that if something ever happened
to me, I wanted you to take the kids and move to California, well nows the
time. Honey.whats going on, Claudia asks again, pulling Skip by the
hand getting him to sit down. He looks around to see if anyone else is in the
house. Remember you said a man was under my car while I was jogging.
Yes, I remember, I thought you sent someone to look at your car, Claudia
says. No, I didnt ask anyone to look at my car, whoever that guy was he cut
my break lines, he was trying to kill me and they almost got away with it.
But why would someone do that Skip? He stares at her, Ok I know some
top secret informationbut it wont make a difference if I am dead, he pulls
Claudia by the arm so she will sit next to him.
A few days ago we had a meeting of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, of
course I was there, Skips stops to see if Claudia is listening to him. Ok go
ahead, shes so glad hes alive. It seems the government has created a
chemical weapon and turned it into a virus that causes people to turn into
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cannibals. Baby, I love you, but do you know how that sounds, Claudia
tries not to laugh. Havent you heard about the virus that has been
plaguing the cities, Skip is getting angry. Yes, Ive heard about it, but I did
not know that people were eating each other. Well its true you can check it
out on the internet. Anyway this virus escaped when a plane carrying it to
Alabama crashed in a place called Rock Hill South Carolina. If the American
people found out the government created such a deadly virus, and it was not
contained it will be very bad for all the officials in Washington. If an anti-dose
for this virus is not found by New Years the Joint Chiefs plan to destroy Rock
Hill and everyone in it, Skip is still looking around to see if anyone is in the
house. Come on the government wont just kill innocent people, Claudia
says. Oh really, they tried to kill me. I still dont understand why they are
after you? I called the CDC in Atlanta and talked to a Doctor Bridges; hes
the director and I told him about their plan to wipe out Rock Hill. What did
he say, Claudia wonders if Skip is losing it. The doctor seemed sure that
they would have the anti-dose before New Years, but Skip looks terrified.
Skip look, I am sure everything your telling me is true, but how are you
going to prove that someone cut your break lines, your car was burnt to a
crisp, Claudia hugs him. Why dont you relax youve been through a lot.
Skip looks into his wifes eyes which are filled with confusion and fear, I
would feel better if you would take the kids away for a while. I am not
leaving my house, she shouts suddenly filled with anger. Skips mind is on
stopping the joint chiefs, so he does not hear what Claudia said, Ive got to
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warn Doctor Bridges. He jumps up grabbing his coat; a cold rain has started
again outside. Where are you going, Claudia is screaming now. Ive got to
find a payphone they can trace the call from here, Skip rushes out the door.
But its raining, the door slams and Claudia watches as her husband runs
down the street his unbuttoned coat flying in the wind. Maybe he hit his
head in the crash, that would make more since than what Skip is telling me,
she thinks.
Its two oclock in the morning and everyone is asleep at the Bridges
home, the phone rings and Allen Bridges fumbles around the nightstand
trying to find it. Hello, he says sounding sleepy. Doctor Bridges I am sorry
to bother you at such a late hour, but remember I told you the Joint Chiefs
were going to wipe out Rock Hill, Skip has to stop and take a breath. Who is
this, Allen shouts. This is Skip Walton remember I called and left a message
for you about the Joint Chiefs a few days ago. Yes, Doctor Weston told me.
Well they tried to kill me, Skip lowers his voice. There is a long pause,
What do mean they tried to kill you, Allen sits up on the side of the bed.
While I was jogging my wife seen a strange man under my car, he must
have cut the brake lines because while I was driving down the hill from my
house, my brand new car suddenly has no brakes; I lost control of the car
jumping out before it goes off a cliff bursting into flames. My God, youre
lucky to be alive; where are you? Allen asks. I live in the subdivision on the
top of 29th street, but I am at a convenient store at the bottom of the hill,
Skip has to talk loud the rain is pouring down now. Just stay there, Ill be
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there in a few minutes, Allen looks for something to put on and wakes his
wife. Where are you going this time of night, and dont tell me youre going
to the office, Ann Bridges says sitting up. A friend of mine is in trouble, Ive
got to help him, Allen kisses her on the forehead and rushes out the door.
Sometimes I wonder if that job is driving him crazy, Ann mumbles.
Allen Bridges only has to drive thirty minutes to get from his house to
the area Skip lives in. He finds Skip standing under a bus stop shelter trying
to get out of the pouring rain. Allen knows it has to be him, but he has to be
sure, Are you Skip Walton, he shouts through a window that is rolled down
a few inches to keep out the rain. Skip is not tall only about five feet, but his
muscular body bulges from under his jacket, he nods to answer the question.
Hey I am Allen Bridges, he extends his hand as Skip gets into the car.
Hello Allen, try to make sure on one is following you, Skip nervously looks
behind them. Try to relax son.how long have you been with the Joint
Chiefs, Allen asks. This is my fifth year, Skip says shaking the rain off of
him. How about a cup of coffee, and maybe some breakfast, Allen
suggests. Skip nods I think there is an IHOP not far from here, As Allen
drives he makes quick glances in his mirror wondering if someone is
following them.
The two men walk in to the IHOP and find a booth in the back where
not many people are sitting. A very nice looking waitress walks up, How can
I help you gentlemen? We take two coffees one black and..how do you

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like yours, Allen asks Skip. Oh, cream and two sugars, he still looks like
hes in shock. We need to be alone for a while honey, Allen says.
Ok Skip explains how this threat went down because as you know I
was there with the Joint Chiefs, Allen Bridges says trying to keep his voice
down. Your coffee sir, the waitress says. Skip stares at him for a while, You
had just finished your presentation and left the conference room, General
Applewood looks disturbed and says to Harry Gibson the director, You know
this is going to give us a very bad black eye Harry. Yes I knowwell have
to put a stop to this at all cost. If doctors Bridges and Weston dont come up
with an anti-dose by New Years launch our counter measures, Harry says. I
was sitting there really not believing what was just said, What counter
measures, I asks, Skip takes a sip of his coffee. General Applewood sort of
smirks, We have two B-2 bombers with enough payload to wipe out a city
are on standby. I just sit there not knowing what to say, Skip says. Of
course you know everything in this room is top secret information,
Applewood adds. I bet he wants to keep that a secret, this sounds like
something from a science fiction movie, Allen adds.
Alright explain to me again what happened to your car, Allen
Bridges wants to make sure Skip is thinking clearly. Yesterday morning while
I was jogging my wife said a man came to my house and was under my car,
we dont know who he was or where he came from, the only explanation he
had to be from the government, Skip explains. I was on the way to the
store going down the hill and suddenly my car has no brakes; I am lucky to
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be alive. You and Doctor Weston better be careful because they may come
after you guys next. Look Skip I know youre upset, but Doctor Weston and
I are very close to coming up with an anti-dose; were not worried about
anyone trying to kill us. Ok doctor I just wanted to warn you guys, Skip
and Allen order breakfast and talk for several more hours.
Every year between Christmas and New Years a young man named
Dillon Reaves and his buddies go skiing in Aspen Colorado. Dillon is an
account manager for a large computer software firm is San Francisco; he
lives all year for this trip. Dillon is a very good skier, but when he goes to
Aspen he does not take cell phones or anything that will interfere with the
sport he loves. His best friend Jack Wilson, who also works for the same
company usually, goes with him. These two guys have known each other
since high school and graduated college together. Dillon is average height
and build, but an above average desire to succeed in everything he does,
once Dillon sets his mind to something wither its keeping his body in shape,
or landing the perfect job, he usually get what he wants. The twenty seven
year old has sandy brown hair, with an outgoing personality. Jack on the
other hand is the same height and build, but struggles with keeping his
weight off, he is more on the quiet side.
Now as they move into their late twenties, Jack has begun to put on
weight so he decides to start playing handball during his lunch with his friend
Raymond Williams who is a pro athlete. Raymond has been beating Jack
every game and gloats after every win. Jack has to keep reminding himself
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that he doing this for the exercise. Are you going to ever win a game, I am
even taking it easy on you, Raymond brags. Jack is gasping for air, I wont
be able to play handball with you tomorrow Ray. What are you tired of
getting beat, the big man shouts. Nope, were going skiing in Aspen
Colorado. Wow really, I have not been there in a long time, I would like to
come along, Raymond says. Jack gives him a hard stare and tries not to
laugh. I dont know many black men that ski; can you ski Raymond. Jack I
am surprised at you going racial on me, of course I can ski.how hard can it
be, Raymond smiles. Well I guess you can come along as long as Dillon
doesnt mind. Dont worry about Dillon we grew up together hell let me
go, Raymond has beaten Jack at another game of handball and starts to
pack up his things. When are you leaving, he asks Jack. I think we are
leaving Thursday but Ill have to get back to you on that.
As soon as Raymond gets back to his mansion he calls Molly Lacey,
they have been dating for two years now. Hey girl what are you up to. My
boss is tripping as usual, if I didnt need this job so bad, I would walk out of
here right now, Molly threatens. Hey, I have something that will cheer you
up, a friend of mine, Jack you know him right. Yeah hes dating Kim. Well
Jack is going to Aspen for a skiing trip Thursday do you want to come,
Raymond asks. Oh baby really, yes I would love to go. Great what time are
we leaving, Molly is excited. Jack has to get back to me on the time, Ill let
you know. As soon as Molly gets off the phone with Raymond she calls Kim
Comings, Jacks girlfriend.
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Hey girl, guess what I just heard, Molly says. What please dont tell
me about your noisy neighbor? No, Raymond asks me to go skiing with him
this Thursday, him and Jack are going to Aspen. Oh yeah, I know they do
that every year, how did Raymond find out, Kim asks. Jack asks him to
come. Oh man, Dillon is not going to be happy, Kim takes a sip of beer.
Why do you say that, Molly is not going to let Kim talk her out of this trip.
Dillon usually just takes the guys, I know hes not going to like this, Kim
says hanging up.
By Wednesday morning Dillon is about to explode, Hey Jack I need to
see you in my office, Dillon slams down the phone. Whats up, Jack walks
in and sits down in a chair not knowing his friend is about to lose it. I just
have to ask what have you done to our trip. Dillon shouts. What do you
mean? You invited Raymond who invited Molly his girlfriend, she told Kim
your girlfriend who just called wanting to go. Jack this trip was supposed to
be for the guys, now there are a bunch of girls coming along, Dillon
complains. Come on Dillon whats wrong with having the girls along dont
you want a warm body next to you at night, Jack explains. Nothing wrong
with it, but I just wanted the guys to get together, you know like we always
do. Oh, I know you havent been the same since you and Windy broke up,
its time to move on Dillon, Jack pats him on the back. If you want me to, I
can fix you up with someone. Oh no, youre not going to put me with some
fat woman so you can get a good laugh, Ill find my own woman, Dillon
shouts.
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It took several hours for Dillon to get his head around the fact that
the girls are going and there was not much he could do about it now. He
receives a phone call from a friend he hasnt heard from in years. Is this
Dillon Reeves? Yes this is Dillon, who is this? This is John Davis your star
wide receiver. John how in the hell are you, Ive havent heard from you
since high school, Dillon shouts glad to hear from his old friend. I am doing
well how about you? Oh I am good; I am an accounts manager for a
computer software company here is San Francisco. Yeah I got your number
from Jack, he was telling me you were the big boss now, John sort of laughs.
Right now a group of us are getting ready to go to Aspen for a skiing trip,
Dillon says looking for his travel agents number. Hey, Ive always wanted to
go to Aspen, do you think I could tag along, John motions for his wife. We
are leaving tomorrow; do you think you can be here? Yes we are just up in
Santa Rosa, we can drive down there.hey this will be awesome, John says.
I forgot to tell you all the girlfriends are coming some you might want to
bring someone. Oh I think my wife would love to come. Your wife..I
didnt know you got married, Dillon has to sit down at his desk. Yes, weve
been married for three years, John loves his wife. Ok man; meet us at the
airport by eleven oclock Thursday morning, Dillon hangs up and realizes,
Well I guess I am going to have to find a larger cabin.
While Dillon is on the phone making reservations for another cabin,
Tammy one of the secretaries from the third floor walks in. Ive got the
Simpson account ready, is there anything else Dillon, she flashes a sexy
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smile. No.that will be all have a nice weekend, Dillon hangs up the phone
and watches her walk away. Hey Tammy.wait a minute, She is five foot
tall with blondish brown hair with an amazing set of blue gray eyes. If you
dont mind me asking, what are you doing this weekend, Dillon drums up
the courage to ask. Oh nothing special probably hanging out with my
friends. Tammy has a great smile which lights up her eyes. A bunch of us
are going to Aspen to go skiing, would you like to come? WellI dont know
this is such short notice. I know, but weve got one spot left, each person
only has to pay three hundred seventy five dollars, Dillon cant believe hes
doing this. Oh I would love to go Dillon, but I spent all my money for
Christmas, maybe some other time, Tammy starts to walk away. Wait just a
minute..Ill pay for everything, all you have to do is come along, Dillon
offers. Dillon you dont have to do that. I dont mind its my pleasure, he
takes Tammy by the hand. I really would appreciate it if you go with me.
Ok, Ill go but Ive got to get my things together, thank you, Tammy hugs
him. Oh, what time are we leaving? Be at the airport by eleven oclock in
the morning, Dillon walks her to the office door.
By the time Dillon Reeves gets home for the day hes exhausted but
feels good Tammy is going to Aspen with him. The telephone rings as Dillon
sits on the sofa, Hey buddy do you have everything together, Jack asks.
Oh yeah, I found this sweet cabin near Bell Mountain called Cascade Lodge.
It has five bedrooms each with a hot tub, and all each person has to pay is
three hundred seventy five dollars, Dillon explains. Hey man that sounds
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great, but what about a woman to take with you? Dillon gets quiet for a
moment. Look buddy. I am not going to let you go on this vacation by
yourself, Jack insists. Ok, ok man, Ive got someone to go with me, Dillon
interrupts. Who is she, Jack cant believe it. Its Tammy Redmond the
secretary from the third floor. You mean that sexy blonde with the
awesome body, Jack had to ask. Yep, thats the one, Dillon smiles. Well
alright then handle your business, now you can enjoy your vacation; Ill see
you tomorrow, Jack says hanging up.
Earlier that evening when Tammy gets home with the news about
going to Aspen her father explodes. You cant go traipsing off to Aspen
Colorado with someone you barely know, who is this guy Dillon anyway, Mr.
Redmond screams. Honeyremember your blood pressure, his wife warns.
Remember my blood, why cant she remember my blood pressure. Tammy
burst into tears and speaks in broken words. Dillon is a manger in
advertising; weve been working together for two years now. Oh really,
have you two been out before, her father asks. Tammy is really surprised at
her father, No, not exactly we work together; I do a lot of his contracts. Plus
dad I am twenty one, I dont really need your permission. Watch your tone
young lady, Tammys father points his finger at her. Look, I know I had to
move back home when Brad and I broke up, but I am an adult dad, and its
about time you realized that, Tammy says wiping tears from her eyes.
Shes got a point dear, Tammy is a woman now you might as well let
her go, her mother adds. Let her go, she barley knows this guy. Ah Carl
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you cant say anything, your parents werent happy about you dating me
because I worked at the dinner back home, do you remember, Mrs.
Redmond says sitting on the sofa. Carl Redmond has to sit down in his
favorite recliner realizing what his wife just said is true. You know what
baby.your mom is right, my father acted the same way; ok you can go to
Aspen.
Stan Weston is getting tired of being isolated from everything, but he
is focused on finding an anti-dose. Every day is a carbon copy of the one
before; Stan gets up after sleeping three hours and begins testing blood
again looking for that right mixture to cure the virus. He sees Allen Bridges
show up on the monitor, Well good morning how was your night, Stan asks.
Oh it was long, Skip Walton called me, and he said the Joint Chiefs come to
his house and cut the break lines on his car; he just got out before the car
went over a cliff, Allen drops his briefcase on his desk. So do you think hes
telling the truth about us only having until New Years to find an anti-dose?
I am not sure, but hes really nervous about them trying to take us out,
Allen turns on his coffee pot and watches Stan pours blood back and forth
from one test tube to another. Oh my God.what did you just do, Allen
stands up and points at the monitor. I think you need to get that first cup of
coffee, youre tripping, Stan says. No, youve been handling fresh blood for
weeks and have not had a reaction, the anti-dose you took must be
working, Allen begins rambling through some folders. Oh man your right,
Stan Weston stands up grinning from ear to ear. So whats our next step,
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Allen asks. We need to try this anti-dose on one of the infected, Stan says.
How in the world do we do that, Allen wonders. Well just have to capture
one, I am sure theres a way. Hey Ive got a couple of interns, one of them
actually works at the zoo, I am sure hell have some ideas, Allen begins
searching for their phone numbers.
Dillon Reeves, is really excited about the skiing trip even with the
women going along, hell still get to be with his buddies. Raymond Williams,
a twenty eight year old wide receiver for the San Francisco Forty-niners; Jack
Wilson is twenty seven and he is an assistant accounts manager for the
same company Dillon works for, and John Gibson a real-estate investor and
the oldest of Dillons buddies. Johns wife Wanda, plus their girlfriends are
ready for the trip of their lives.
By eleven oclock Thursday morning Dillon and the gang make it to
the airport, but they have to wait a few minutes for John to arrive, hes
running a little late. Flight two thirty six for Denver and Dallas is boarding at
gate ninety five, the announcer says. You guys go ahead Ill buy Johns
ticket and wait for him here, Dillon says. Ill wait with you, Tammy
volunteers. Dillon smiles at her, Thanks he takes Tammys hand she seems
to be getting a little more comfortable around him. They wait fifteen more
minutes until the announcer says, This is the last call for flight two thirty six
boarding at gate ninety five. Dillon sees two people running through the
airport toward them waving their hands and yelling something; its John and
his wife when they finally reach them, the older couple reaches them they
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are breathing hard wanting to rest a minute. You two just made it lets go
before the plane leaves, Dillon begins running pulling Tammy along with
him. Tammy cant believe shes running through a major airport at her age,
shes been brought up to respectful in public, this is something her father
would frown on, but she loves it. When they all get to gate ninety five they
are ready to close the door leading to aircraft. Wait, wait, were here, Dillon
yells. I hope you have tickets, the lady says sort of frowning. Yes, we have
tickets, Dillon holds up the tickets and the rush inside the plane to take their
seats. Hey I didnt get a chance to buy our tickets, John says as they sit
down. Dont worry I paid for them, you can just pay me back later, Dillon
says him and Tammy sit together already smiling at each other.
Jack and Kim start watching a scary movie on Jacks tablet; Kim gets
so scared she moves real close to Jack putting her arms around him.
Raymond and Molly are playing video games and Molly is winning. Raymond
gets mad and says I am tired of this game. Oh so now that you are losing
youre going to quit, Molly says loudly so other people can hear. So I guess
you are going to pout now. I am not pouting, I just dont want to play
anymore, Raymond says his oversized arms folded staring at Molly. Dillon
and Tammy sit whispering and smiling at each other as she thanks him again
for bringing her. Raymond looks at Molly and whispers, One of my buddies
that bowls with you and Kim on Wednesday night overheard you two talking
about me not being able to raise my flag in bed. Molly is so embarrassed
shes really surprised that Raymond found out what she said. I can believe
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you blabbed to Kim about my condition, now everyone will know. I didnt
tell everyone, I just told Kim, Molly defends. Well that is just like telling
everyone, Kim has a big mouth, Raymond gives Molly a hard stare. Oh
calm down..a lot of men have that problem, they have pills for that, Molly
tries to keep her voice down. Pills.I told you I am not popping pills,
Raymond is shouting now. The passengers on either side of them turn
looking to see if everything is alright. Well I guess we wont be doing
anything then, Molly snaps. Well I guess we wont, Raymond folds his
arms and looks out the window on the other side of the plane. Molly just
shakes her head and starts to read a book. Amazingly John and his wife
Wanda sleep through everything; they are exhausted having to get up early
to get to the airport on time.

CHAPTER ELEVEN
At the CDC in Atlanta, Doctors Bridges and Weston with the help from
the two interns come up with a plan to capture one of the infected so they
can try the anti-dose. Corey an ex-marine is one intern, and Peter works part249

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time at the local zoo is the other, he helped the doctors to come up with this
plan. Its almost midnight in Atlanta, Corey and Peter has placed a fresh bag
of blood in the bottom of a trash can at the rear of the building. Now they all
sit watching the monitor of the outside cameras to see if anyone takes the
bait. It took several hours but a group of the infected is walking toward the
trash can, they get closer and closer but they just keep on walking. Ah
man, both young men shout. Remember guys we only need to isolate one
for this thing to work, Doctor Bridges says. They wait for three more hours
but nothing happens. What happens when they find the bag of blood,
Corey asks. Remember once the infected takes the first bag of blood you
will throw another bag of blood right outside the back door. Once the
infected takes that bag, Peter I want you to push this button and it will open
the door to the cage I have designed, Doctor Bridges explains pounding on
the steel bars. This was left over from a gorilla capture I did a few years
ago, Allen brags.
They wait another hour and Corey shouts, Wait a minute doc, I think
weve got someone interested in the bag in the trash can. A white man about
six foot tall still wearing a business suit stops and sniffs the air around the
trash can. He looks around to see if any other infected are in the area, so he
wont have to defend his prize. The man begins coughing grabbing his head
and screaming. Corey and Peter watch in amazement as the mans jaws
stretch making room for his long sharp teeth, and his fingernails double their
size. Man thats weird, Corey says. Trash goes flying as the infected man
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digs through the can for the bag of blood; he grabs it using only one long
fingernail to sever the bag and begins to feed. His coal black eyes roll back
into his head as the sweet red liquid satisfies him. Cory throws the next bag
of blood right outside the back door and quickly closes it. Just like Doctor
Bridges planned the infected man curiously climbs the short set of stairs up
to the dock, and goes right for the second bag quickly feeding.
Peter pushes the button and the front door to the cage opens to the
back dock, the infected man jumps startled by the sudden noise, he is
curious so he looks inside but stops at the cage door sniffing the air. A dark
room seems to intimidate the man; he only stands at the entrance trying to
see whats inside. Stan Weston can only watch everything from the monitor
in his room. Allen Bridges has an idea, he rushes over to a file cabinet and
rambles through one of the drawers. Ah, here it is, he grabs a flashlight and
runs back to the cage; Allen raises the black curtain a little and shines the
light on the bag of blood. The mans coal black eyes light up when he sees
the only thing the drives his existence, he quickly moves inside the cage and
the door closes behind him. Allens plan actually works.
Doctor Bridges, the two interns and Stan Weston watch as what used
to be a man making sounds like a dog or wolf as he devours the bag of fresh
blood. The man even licks the drops of blood off the floor. Allen Bridges
switches on the lights and pulls up the black curtain, the sudden bright large
room seems to agitate the infected man, he growls at them several times.
Man what in the world is that thing, Corey says afraid to get too close to
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the cage. You dont have to worry that cage is strong enough to hold a full
grown gorilla, Allen boasts again. Did you see that Stan, Allen yells into
the monitor to his friend. Yes, that was very clever.now you need to start
recording to see how long it takes him to return to normal, Stan Weston
says. Great idea, Ill get my camcorder, Allen Bridges rushes around as
excited as a child on Christmas quickly moving away from the monitor. Stan
Weston can see the infected man clearly now walking around in the cage like
an animal. He heart goes out to him thinking about all the other people he
has infected, My God what have I done, Stan Weston breaks down into
tears.
Doctor Allen Bridges starts recording at one thirty in the morning, the
infected man is still pacing back and forth in the cage stopping every few
minutes to look at the Doctor and his helpers. It takes until four thirty in the
morning when it happens. The infected man stops pacing and drops to his
knees and screams form the pain. Corey and Peter are amazed as the
creature changes right before their eyes, back into a normal looking man.
Did you get that, Stan Weston yells. Oh yes we got it, all of it. Now we
need to administer the anti-dose and place some more blood in the cage and
see what happens, Weston instructs.
What am I doing in this cage, the infected man asks. Youve
contracted a very deadly virus and we are going to help you to get rid of it,
Allen explains. Wheres my family, the man seems very disoriented. We
dont know, whats your name? Allen walks over to his computer. My name
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is..Simon Reynolds. Are you having a hard time remembering, the
doctor asks. Yes, especially in the past few weeks. The last thing I
remember, I just left the office on my lunch break, I was on my way to look
for a Christmas gift for my wife when this strange almost invisible cloud
came from out of nowhere. I know I probably was imagining it but this cloud
seemed to focus right on me. Once it engulfed me, I fell to my knees, oh man
the pain was so sever and when I stood up I was like the creature you seen a
few minutes ago, Simon explains. He must have gotten the first wave of
the virus, Stan Weston says. You mentioned your family, have you spoken
to your wife since then to let her know where you are. No, I was afraid for
her to see like that, plus I loose complete control once I change, I could kill
anyone, even her. Simon turns his head to hide his tears.
Ok Simon, I am going to give you a shot of something that will help
you, dont be alarmed by the camera we have to record your progress, Allen
pulls out the needle filled with the green anti-dose. Now this is going to
sting a little, he quickly sticks Simon in the arm and checks to make sure
the camcorder is on. Ok administered the first sample of anti-dose one to
subject at four 4:15 AM, subjects body seems to be accepting the drug
without any complications, Doctor Bridges says into the camcorder. Stan
Weston watches everything taking notes every few minutes. Peter opens a
small door and slides a new bag of blood and now everyone watches Simon
to see if he has a reaction. Hours and hours pass but Simon does not even

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look at the bag of blood. Once four hours have passed Doctors Bridges and
Weston begins to get excited knowing that a cure for the virus is very close.
The sun slowly begins to peep through the tall tinted windows of the
CDC, its eight oclock in the morning and Simon has still not had a reaction.
How long are you going to keep me here, Simon asks. We are very close
to finding a cure for this virus and youre the key, it should not be too much
longer, Allen says. Its two days before New Years Eve their time for finding
a cure is running out.
By four oclock in the afternoon Dillon and his crew land in Denver,
they gather their bags and walk through the airport looking for the rent-a-car
service Dillon picked. I have reservations for Dillon Reeves, he says as they
walk up to the counter. The nice looking Chinese woman begins to type on
the computer, We have an Expedition fueled and ready for you sir. When
Dillon reaches in his wallet to get his credit card, Raymond walks up and
says, Put that away Ive got this. Thanks, but you dont have to do that,
Dillon says. Oh you know I dont mind, Raymond opens his wallet to revel
ten credit cards all with large amounts of money on them, he hands one to
the lady. Since Raymond has become a pro football player money is no
object; Dillon and Raymond grew up together in the same neighborhood.
Dillon can remember when Raymond and his mother did not have food to eat
because his father left. Now that life has changed for Raymond and Dillon
has been a little jealous, but he would never admit it.

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All the guys load their bags in the Expedition and they start the four
hour trip to Aspen. Dillon, Tammy and Jack sit in the front talking about the
job. Raymond, Molly and Kim sit in the middle, Raymond is on the cell phone
talking to someone about last weeks game while Molly and Kim gossip. John
and Wanda sit in the back of the large SUV; they are still exhausted for the
early start to San Francisco, so it doesnt take long and the couple to fall
asleep.
Snow has started to fall; Dillon has to slow down a bit because the
roads start to get slick especially going around the curves up the mountain.
Dillon also got up early and has to fight to stay awake. Are you ok Dillon, do
we need to stop, Tammy asks noticing him getting tired. No, I am fine, we
dont have much further, Dillon says trying not to look tired. The four hour
trip seemed more like eight, but finally by eight oclock that night the group
makes it to Bell Mountain in Aspen. As they travel down the snow covered
road the headlights only give brief glimpses of the beautiful scenery around
them. Tammy is amazed she strains to see more of the winter wonderland.
Oh my God, Dillon this is amazing, she says as they pull up in front of the
cabin. They all pile out the Expedition, now Dillon is fumbling with a set of
keys trying to find the one to the front door.
Once the beautiful oak doors swing open everyone just stands in the
doorway with their mouths open. Wow man you really out did yourself this
time, Jack pats Dillon on the back. The Cascade Lodge is enormous; a small
foyer opens up to one of the large dens with a huge stone fireplace the
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eighteen foot ceilings have cedar beams spaced every six feet, and cedar
panels cover the remaining space. Hey Dillon, whats that small section in
the panel for, Tammy asks. I dont know storage I guess, Dillon and Jack
stare at opening which may be access to an attic. A large leather sectional is
complemented by two Lazy Boy recliners, and a big screen TV occupies one
wall. I am sure Raymond will love this, Molly blurts out. Dillon looks around,
Where is Raymond. Oh he outside talking about football to so guy on the
phone, Molly forces a smile. They all notice a buffalos head hanging above
the fireplace, Wow someone knew you were coming Jack they have your
head hanging over the fireplace, Dillon says with a laugh. Kim laughs but
Jack frowns at her. Dillon I have to says for a young man you have very good
taste, Wanda comments smiling at him. John gives her a hard stare. Ok
gang lets see the rest of the place, Dillon starts to walk them through the
spacious cabin; everyone is amazed at how gorgeous it is. Raymond is still
standing outside talking on his cell phone to someone; he has a couple of
homes as nice as this so the big man is not impressed. The group walk down
a small hallway to another den, this one has a pool table, a couple of
oversized loveseats, and of course a big screen TV. I am going to get you on
this pool table and spank you real good, Jack threatens Dillon. I love it
when you talk dirty to me, Dillon says trying to sound like a woman. Why
you. Jack grabs Dillon. Ok guys if youre going to fight take it outside,
John steps in pulling them apart. They are not fighting, they always act silly
like this, Kim says. Did someone say fight, Raymond says catching up with
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them. Theres no fight just these children acting up, Kim and Tammy says.
I think this is my spot, Raymond picks up the remote turning on the TV,
Its a good game on now. Thats all you think about is football, Molly
slaps him on his rock hard arm. We didnt come all the way up here to watch
football, tomorrow were going skiing my friend. Do you know how to ski,
Dillon asks. Oh yeah.. How hard can it be, Raymond smiles to hide his
fear; he has never skied in his life. Come on lets see the rest of this
gorgeous place, Tammy pulls Dillon by the arm.
Wow, Oh my God, I think I am in love, the three women comment
when they see the huge kitchen. Molly sort of smiles, Raymonds mansion
has some of the same things. The walnut cabinets with glass fronts are
highlighted with a light gray and black marble counter top and backsplash.
There are two large stainless steel sinks, a commercial sized double oven,
and two refrigerators full of food. I am never leaving this place, Tammy
blurts out. All the other women look at her frown, She just trying to get
attention.I bet you her boobs are fake, Kim whispers because Tammy is
even bigger breasted than her. Tammy is by far the best looking woman
among them; she has long blonde hair, beautiful dark blue eyes, and a
perfectly shaped body. Tammy knows they are talking about her so she sits in
one of the eight chairs that run along the huge breakfast bar crossing her
beautiful legs. I wonder who is going to do the cooking, Kim says with a
frown. I didnt come up here to spend my whole time cooking, Molly blurts
out. Girl you need to stop, you dont cook that much anyway, Raymond
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scolds. Molly turns her head up and walks away from him. She is really
spoiled, since Raymond is so wealthy Molly cooks once a week on Sunday.
Hey, I am pretty good cook why dont we take turns, Tammy suggest. All
the other women just frown and mumble among themselves.
Ok, lets take a look at the bedrooms, Dillon leads the group down a
hallway and up a few stairs. Everyone expression changes, even Raymond
looks a little surprised. Man this is bigger than my apartment, Kim blurts
out flopping on the bed. All the other guys begin to stare because Kims legs
fly open. Jack frowns. Kim is a beautiful woman with short red hair, green
eyes and firm breast. She may be short but is very aggressive, and not afraid
to tell a man what she wants, she has never had a problem getting a man.
Dillon I have to say traveling with Raymond weve been to a lot of cabins,
but this is the best Ive ever seen, Molly admires the fireplace in the
bedroom. Tammy and the other women walk into the rest of the bathroom,
Oh my God, does each bathroom have a hot tub, Kim bends down and
turns on the water. Yes, they do, Dillon says proudly. I am glad I brought
my bikini, Molly looks at Raymond. There is one more room I want you to
see, Dillon takes them down a short flight of steps to a formal dining room
complete with a table, twelve chairs and a china cabinet. Wow, my man this
is over the top, this is going to be a vacation to remember, Jack gives Dillon
a high five. Thanks man..now Raymond why dont you help me get the
bags out of the SUV, Dillon says. Youre kidding right; you are going to ask
the only black man in the group to get the bags, Raymond shouts with fists
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clinched. Ok, ok, dont get all racial on me. Jack come and help me, Dillon
frowns at Raymond as they walk out.
Once the travelers get settled Tammy volunteers to cook spaghetti
for everyone. Its the holiday so the TV is full of football games, Raymond
and the guys are in one of the dens crowded around cheering for their team.
The women are in the kitchen commenting as Tammy prepares the spaghetti.
She doesnt seem to mind and in about an hour, Tammy has dinner ready,
while the other women are arguing about politics.
Back in Huston its been two days Steve and Iris are still on the roof
they are hot, tired and very thirsty praying someone will pick them up soon.
Iriss beautiful skin especially her face has become red and blistered from the
sun, she is getting weaker by the minute. Steve looks out over the area to
see all the buildings around them are surrounded by at least seven feet of
water. Hold on Iris help is coming soon, Steve says putting his arm around
her. He hopes his words become reality soon. The minutes seem like hours
another day passes, but still no one has come to help the stranded couple.
Iris holds on as long as she can but finally she passes out from heat
exhaustion. Iris, Iris, come on wake up, Steve says trying to wake her.
Suddenly in the distance there is the low hum of the Coast Guard
helicopter, the big spinning blades of the chopper seem like a mirage
dropping down right in the light of the bright sun. A warm but welcome wind
from the helicopter blades gives Steve the strength to get up to help Iris who
is barely conscious. One of the Coast Guard rescuers is slowly lowered down
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to the roof; he has on a pilots helmet and a microphone close to his mouth.
Are you alright, he asks Steve. I am ok, but I think she needs to go first.
The Coast Guard officer takes a small flashlight and shines it in Iriss eyes.
She is about to go into shock. Captain the two on the roof are alive, but
one of them a white female is going into shock, have the doctor standing
by, he his microphone. Slowly a stretcher made of a metal frame and cloth
straps is lowered down to them, Steve helps the officer lay Iris down and he
straps her in. With a few hand signals the stretcher is carefully raised to the
chopper and the doctor starts treating Iris.
Ok sir, youre next, the officer says to Steve. He straps a harness
between his legs and away he goes. Finally they are being rescued, Steve
breaths a shy of relief, as his is raised in the air he can see the havoc that
hurricane Katy reaped on Huston. Ships are out of the water and sitting in
parking lots, a school bus sits on top of a two story building, mud and sand
covers everything along the shoreline and beyond, many of the structures
that were standing tall before the hurricane are gone. We got you, two
Coast Guard men pull Steve in the chopper. He sees the doctors working
frantically on Iris. Is she going to be ok? Yes, shes dehydrated, but in a
day or so shell be fine. However we did fine a strange virus in her blood,
something we have never seen before, one doctor says. Iris did mention
something about a virus in South Carolina where she is from, but that is all I
know, Steve hopes he did not say too much, now he wonders if they will find
out about Iris killing the woman in San Francisco.
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Wow Tammy, youre a really good cook, Dillon says taking a large
helping of the spaghetti. Yeah, I have to admit this is very good, Raymond
says looking at Molly. Alright dont you start, she gives him a hard stare
that says you dont want to go there. Ok, ok we are all going to get along, I
didnt pay to come up here and listen to you two argue, Kim says. After
dinner the guys crowd back around the TV, while the women clean the
kitchen. Kim and Wanda pitch in to help Tammy clean up, but Molly is just full
of negative comments. She has taken a bottle of wine from the wine rack,
and with every sip Molly gets a litter higher. So Kim how are you and Jack
doing, Molly speech has become slurred. Kim smiles, Were doing fine,
why? I was just wondering if he was hitting you right in the bed. Why
Molly I am surprised at you, Wanda says being the oldest woman in the
group. Yeah I am sure John is laying that pipe to you, Molly staggers to one
of the stools. I think youve had enough to drink, Kim tires to take the wine
bottle from Molly, but she pushes her away. Oh no, this is the only pleasure I
am going to get tonight, Molly looks around to see if Raymond is nearby.
You mean to tell me the big pro football player cant raise his flag, All the
women laugh. Yeah sex has been out of bounds for quite a while now,
Molly turns the bottle up taking large gulps.
Raymond happens to come in the kitchen for some more beers and
the woman stop talking. What are you ladies up to? Oh just girl talk, Kim
says first. Oh no, youre not drinking again, Raymond snatches the wine
bottle from Molly. Why dont you let me have some pleasure tonight, she
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mumbles. Suddenly Raymond realizes they were talking about his problem.
Anger runs through his veins now instead of blood, he throws the wine bottle
into the kitchen cabinets, and small pieces of glass fly everywhere. On his
way out of the kitchen the big man punches a fist size hole in the wall,
Raymond glares at Molly and storms outside.
What in the hell is going on in here, Dillon looks in the kitchen
seeing the damage, and he follows Raymond outside. Do you want to tell
me whats going on? Not now Dillon, just leave me alone, Raymond turns
and stares at him with fire in his eyes. Dillon takes his advice and goes back
inside walking fast into the kitchen; he knows hes no match for the six foot
two football star. Alright ladies, do you want to tell me why we have broken
glass and a hole in the wall, Dillon starts to pace. They all smile at Molly
who is still drunk. Her make-up begins to fades as she burst into tears;
Raymond is having problems.. Molly looks around to see if hes near.
What she is trying to say, Dillon asks. Raymond is having problems with
sex, Kim blurts out. Youve got to kidding, are we talking about the same
Raymond that plays in the NFL, and that I grew up with, Dillon cant believe
it. Dillon I am warning you dont say anything to him you seen how violent
he gets, Molly pleads. I am not going to say anything to him, but doesnt
Raymond know there are pills for that. Come on Dillon youve known
Raymond longer than I have, you know he doesnt like pills, especially since
hes a pro athlete, Molly slowly begins to sober up.

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Hey, whats the big meeting about.and what happened here, Jack
walks in followed by John. Raymond is having problems in bed, Dillon says
with a big smile, There is finally something the big man is not good at.
Youre joking right, Jack cant believe it. No, I am not joking, Dillon stops
smiling. Ah thats an easy fix, Ive got some Viagra he can have, John says,
everyone gives him a hard stare. What are you doing with Viagra at you
age, youre only.what forty? Jack asks. I am thirty nine, but a lot of guys
use it to give them that something extra when youre with that special
woman, John looks at Tammy. I only use the pill when I am really tired and
my wife wants me; I take the pill and it works, John looks at Wanda who
nods her head and smiles.
Steve and Iris slowly wake up in the Texas Medical Center in Huston
Texas. Steve gets up to go to the bathroom. Hes a little groggy, but Steve
wonders why he and Iris are in the same room, I have the best medical
coverage there is. Steve walks over to the solid oak door and pulls the long
silver handle, its locked. Iris, Iris you need to wake up weve got a
problem, Steve sounds nervous. Whats wrong, Iris struggles to open her
eyes. Were locked in, Steve whispers. Now Iris is awake enough to realize
whats going on, she jumps up and runs to the door trying the handle, My
God why would they lock us in. There is long narrow window on the side of
the door Iris peeps out and sees a policeman standing right outside. Oh
nothey must have found out about the woman in San Francisco, what are
we going to do now, fear covers Iris face and she starts to cry. Just give me
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a minute, Ill think of something, Steve sits on the bed. I dont want to go
to jail, the virus made me kill that woman, I had no control, Iris paces back
and forth.
Out in the hallway a nurse is bringing up a patient from the operating
room, there is a bag of fresh blood attached to a metal pole on the side of
the bed. Suddenly Iris stops pacing and has a strange look on her face. She
starts sniffing the air. Iris whats wrong, Steve says. The beautiful woman
grabs her head, as pain rushes through her; she wants to warn Steve, but
cant say anything. Iris goes to her knees, Steve runs to her, but she pushes
him away. Stay away from me if you value your life, her voice sounds
different, horse and angry. Steve backs away from her, right before his eyes
he watches the beautiful woman he has started to fall in love with change.
Iriss jaws begin to stretch, her teeth grow so long they hang way below her
mouth; Iriss eyes turn jet black and her fingernails grow abnormally long.
Now Steve is really terrified he backs all the way in the corner not really
knowing what to do.
The creature Iris has become turns to the oak door and with one
swipe rips the section where the lock is into several pieces, the handle falls
to the floor. It looks like someone took a chain saw to that part of the door.
Before the policeman in the hallway can draw his weapon, Iris is biting into
the soft tissue of his neck; his red blood is so sweet to her. Terror fills the
young police officers eyes watching this creature take his life. Everyone in
the hallway starts screaming and running, the younger ones knocking the
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older people down trying to get away. Iris knows the police will come soon,
but the smell of fresh blood is overpowering she focuses her attention on the
patient in the bed; Iris pushes the nurse up against the wall knocking her
unconscious. The woman patient in the bed never knows what hits her; Iris
grabs the bag of blood quickly devouring it. She seems to enjoy ripping open
the womans stomach and feeding on her intestines. As Steve watches from
the doorway he cant believe any of this, can this be Iris the beautiful woman
he just met. He thinks back to their first conversation in the truck when Iris
said the virus changed her Steve, did not realize it was anything like this.
While Iris is having a reaction her sense of hearing is heightened,
there is the sound of many footsteps running toward her, still dressed only in
a bloody hospital gown Iris bolts out the doors at the end of the hallway with
the police right behind her. Steve just stands in the door to see what
happens next. While running through the hall right past Steve one of the
police officers begins pulling his weapon. Before the gun is out of the holster
Steves foot slips out in the young mans path tripping him. Steve quickly
slips back in the room, there is so much commotion the police man does not
know who tripped him. Get up man shes getting away, another officer
runs up and says. But someone ... save the excuses, just get up and lets
go, the other police officer runs off. Steve is in the bathroom slipping on his
clothes, and he grabs Iriss things. With so much commotion in the hallway
Steve easily slips out the door undetected.

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Right behind the hospital is a small shopping center; Steve decides to
try there first. He slows the pace down and just walks into the first business,
but he receives very strange looks because many of the small places are
womens boutiques. He looks around and walks straight to the back, I am
sorry but someone escaped from the hospital and I am helping with the
search, Steve says trying to explain his presence. Is this person
dangerous, one lady asks. Yes, this person can be dangerous, so if you see
her dont approach her just call this number, Steve grabs a piece of paper
and jutes down his number. After checking all the stores in the shopping
center he walks around the building, there is a heavily wooded area that
seems to stretch for miles. Iris is probably in there, Steve says out loud.
As Steve walks across a small street he sees a chain length fence in
front of a section of well-kept grass, a large area of woods is directly behind
it. Steve hops the fence and is just standing there debating on whether to
enter or not. Iris needs me; Ive got to try and help her, he says climbing
through the thick brush, hoping no snakes pop out and surprise him. Steve is
really nervous, his heart is pumping so loud and fast he can hear it in his
head, now wondering if this was such a good idea. I hope Iris recognizes
me, so I wont end up like the policeman at the hospital. Fallen tree
branches, small puddles and thick brush is what Steve has to climb through,
just to see a few feet of clearing and more trees and brush. The soft chirping
of birds is interrupted by the loud warning blast of ravens as Steve moves
deeper and deeper into the woods, but there is no sign of Iris.
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The cool air and warm ground has created patchy fog which makes it
even harder to see. Steve almost begins to get comfortable in this
wilderness, but he suddenly freezes when he hears the sound of rustling
leaves in the distance, for a moment the woods become silent, then the
blood curdling low growl of a wolf can be heard. Iriss coal black eyes have a
bright green tint in the darkness of the woods. The thing Iris has become
slowly walks into a spot where the sun is barely peeking through. She stops
and sniffs the air, Iris, Iris its me Steve dont you remember. Steve knows
he cant run now so all he do is stand there shaking from fear. The forty three
year man he has never been this terrified in his life. Closer and closer the
creature moves her coal black eyes blinking trying to focus. Steve cant
believe how long and sharp Iriss teeth have grown they protrude way past
her once beautiful lips. She takes one of her long fingernails and gently runs
it through Steves hair, remembering the time they made love. Iris, look I
brought your clothes, he holds up her jeans and top. She growls knocking
them to the ground, as if to say, I will never be human again. Iris please
dont give up, I am going to get you back to Rock Hill to find the cure for this
virus. The creature only stares at him trying to remember the good times
they had together.
Steve does not realize while walking through the thick brush it
scratched his face and now its bleeding. Iris steps back and sniffs the air,
now she begins to growl again. Steve has been through a lot to help this
woman, if he was going to die, it well be helping her. Iris its Steve, he says
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holding up his hands as if someone had a gun on him. She is right on top of
Steve now; Iris slowly raises her hand ready to finalize the kill. All Steve can
do now is close his eyes and wait for the inevitable. Suddenly a shot rings
out hitting Iris in the shoulder, she screams like a wounded animal running
off into the woods. A police officer quickly emerges from the brush ready to
fire again. Steve grabs his arm, Wait you cant kill her thats my girlfriend.
That will never be the woman you knew, shes better off dead, he says
resuming his chase. Steve just stands there not really wanting to hear the
truth about Iris, but thankful to be alive.
Very large snowflakes are starting fall in Aspen, as the bright orange
sun disappears behind the mountains. All the couples are tired from their trip
and relaxing by sipping on wine and watching movies, except Raymond and
Molly. She sits pretending to read a book on the other side of the room,
Raymond is in another room watching a football game. After the movie is
over Dillon is flipping through the channels and CNN has a story about the
attacks at a Huston Hospital. A woman that is suspected of having some
type of virus attacked a police office by taking bites out of his neck, then she
cuts open a patients stomach and feeds on her organs, the news caster
says. Man thats gross, Tammy comments. Dillon looks around the room, I
wonder if any of us have the virus. Oh come on, do you see any of us
ripping open someone and feeding on them, Jack takes a sip of wine. All I
know is that would be a horrible way to go, Tammy puts her arm around
Dillon as if he will keep her safe.
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Raymond walks into the room during their conservation. All of you
act as if eating humans is something new, dont you remember several years
ago when a soccer teams plane crashed not too far from here. Once they
were exposed to the brutal weather for several days the survivors started
eating the dead to stay alive, Raymond explains. Yeah, but they ate body
parts to stay alive, this is a virus causing people to feed on each other, thats
not normal, Tammy defends. Ok just for fun lets take a poll, a show of
hands for anyone who thinks they can eat another person to stay alive,
Raymond says. All of them look at each other shaking their heads; Jack is the
only one who raises his hand. I dont have a problem eating someone to
stay alive, Jack whispers something in Kims ear. Youre so nasty, she
blurts out. A person can go longer without food than water, I think I would
take my chances, Molly says quickly wiping a tear from her eye to hide the
fact she has been crying. Can we talk about something else, Kim thinks she
is going to be sick. Finally they all quiet down and get into one of the Twilight
movies, and by one oclock in the morning Dillon says, I think we need to
turn in, weve got a big day of skiing tomorrow. Alright Dillon, you and your
skiing, everyone but Tammy complains. Her mind is on having sex with
Dillon, its been two years since her and Brad broke up, Tammy has not been
with anyone since.
Dillon and Tammy are the first to leave the den and make their way
toward the master bedroom. He is a little drunk and Tammy wonders why
Dillon is carrying the wine bottle. She thinks about her fathers statement,
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You cant go traipsing off with someone you barely know. Dillon seems like a
nice enough guy he has a good job; maybe this can turn into a serious
relationship. They are now at the bedroom door Dillon can feel Tammys
hand sweating, Whats wrong are you nervous. Yes, I am very nervous.
Is this your first time, Dillon sets down the wine bottle and pulls her close,
putting his arms around Tammys small waist. No, this is not my first time; I
broke up with my boyfriend two years ago and have not been with anyone
since. Why dont you take a sip of wine it will relax you, Dillon hands her
the wine bottle, and she turns it up taking long swallows of the red liquid.
Dillon opens the bedroom door and they set inside. Tammy blinks her eyes a
few times and starts smiling. The passion she has been holding in for two
years slowly emerges; Tammy pulls Dillon to her rubbing her hand up and
down his muscular body. Gently he kisses her on the neck, Tammy eyes close
as she enjoys his touch. Dillon stops and stares into her passion filled eyes,
and they kiss passionately, both of them become aroused. A few minutes
later Tammy reaches around to her back unfastening her black bra dropping
it to the floor. Slowly he pulls up her top to reveal to large firm breast which
ready for him. Dillon ravishes her like a starving child, and she moans from
the pleasure placing her hand gentle behind his head to keep him there.
Tammy rubs her hand down his leg to feel the bulge in his pants, Well I see
youre ready, she says with a sexy smile. Each of them slide off the rest of
their clothes, then Tammy scoots back into the bed, opening her legs wide
like a butter fly. Dillon gets into position and Tammys eyes open wide as he
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penetrates deep inside her, the feeling is so good he starts to lunge harder.
Hey take it easy, its not going anywhere, she screams. He slows down so
they both can enjoy the amazing feeling, fifteen minutes later Dillon and
Tammy both scream and fall into each others arms.
Jack and Kim make it to their bedroom next, they have had sex many
times before, but Kim seems to be hotter than normal probably because of
being in the nice cabin, their sex usually doesnt take long, Jack is out of
shape. They finish but Kim wants him again, Just give me a few minutes,
Jack says breathing hard. John and Wanda the oldest couple they are
watching a movie after sleeping all the way up the mountain. Raymond and
Molly start the night like most of their others arguing. Well I guess youre
satisfied, youve put all my business in the streets, Raymond shouts. Look
Raymond I am sorry, Molly puts her arms around him gently caressing the
back of his bald head. They stare at each other remembering the days when
their love was magic. Molly reaches in her purse and pulls out a small blue
pill, I want you to try this for me. Whats that, he asks. It will help you;
just try it this one time. I told you I am not popping any pills it will mess up
my career, Raymond declares. Look you missed the last couple of games
because of your knee, plus the season is over for this year, so try it, Molly
pleads. Raymond frowns, but walks over to the small frig and gets a bottle of
water, he picks up the pill swallowing it with several sips of water. Ok I took
it but nothing happened. You have to give it time, come on and watch the
rest of this movie with me, Molly pats the bed in the spot next to her.
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Raymond frowns but does what she asks. About an hour later as Molly starts
to drift off to sleep Raymond begins to feel different, his need for sex has
returned, in a big way. Gently he kisses her on the breast; Molly knows hes
ready so she pulls him on top of her opening wide to receive him. Its been a
few months since they have had sex and Raymonds lunges hurt at first, but
Molly closes her eyes caressing the back of his balled head. The pain she
fells quickly turns to pleasure as the couple makes love for two hours.
Raymond and Mollys room is right next to Kim and Jacks who have
been finished with sex and begin watching TV. Wow Raymond must have his
flag up tonight, Kim smiles at Jack. Yeah maybe I need some of those pills,
he suggest. Kim only smiles hoping he does try the Viagra.
Over in John and Wandas room she thinks she hears something. Hey
turn the TV down John, I think I head something, Wanda says. He frowns but
does as requested looking around. I dont hear anything, John says. No, I
thought I heard something up in the ceiling, Wanda declares. John just
shakes his head, Were not at home honey there are no squirrels in the
attic.
Back in Rock Hill its four days after Christmas, the city looks like a
ghost town except for the large groups of infected roaming the streets. The
Feeding Virus is a little over four weeks into its development, and is affecting
each person differently. Some only have coal black eyes, others have only
long teeth protruding from their mouth, and still others just have unnaturally

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long fingernails. They still roam the streets with the fully developed infected
with only one thing on their mind, blood as much of it as they can find.
Sheriff Bobby Smith has decided to let Peggy have a few extra days
off to spend with her son for Christmas. Hes alone now; Bobbys wife left
him for of all things, another woman, this devastated him. This is just
another holiday Bobby sits lonely staring out the front window of the sheriffs
station, thinking about his wife and how much he loved her. A group of
infected are walking down the road past the station and the sheriff notices
something different about the group. He takes his binoculars to get a closer
look, Bobby is surprised seeing even little five and six year old children
infected with the virus, so now its fathers, mother, and they children affected
by this terrible virus. They search through dumpsters, garbage cans and
anywhere else they can find bloody carcasses. Further up the road there is a
bleeding dog that got hit by a car, everyone in the group stops sniffs the air
and begins running toward the carcass. Now they are growling and snarling
at each other like a pack of hungry wolves. The strong ones of the group get
the spoils; the weaker are wounded in the fighting and are later a food
source. Death is probably the best thing that could happen to these poor
people controlled by this vicious virus. Bobby couldnt imagine not being in
his right mind living off of blood found in the streets.
Jill Davis had a wonderful Christmas she spent the day with Bobby
and they had a ball, in spite of whats going on. A couple of her girlfriends
from college dropped by two days after the holiday, Jill really enjoyed being
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with her girlfriends; they spent time cooking, eating and talking about the
good old days. After Jills friends left she is completely out of food, so she
needs to go shopping. Ever since the virus has started to get worse, Bobby
has been escorting Jill to the store, but she does not want to bother him
today. Jill scribbles out a grocery list on the back of an envelope, grabs her
coat and car keys and out the door she goes. She stops before locking the
door and rushes back inside. In the top drawer of the china cabinet is a hand
gun Bobby gave her, Jill sticks it in her purse and rushes back out the door. I
might need this since Bobby is not going, she mumbles.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Its a cold December day, the snow is lingering and light flurries are
blown by the cold winter air. Jill has been driving a nineteen nighty nine
Chevy which is on its last leg, but she doesnt want to go in debt to get
another car. She scraps the ice and snow off the vehicle jumps in and turns
the key. The car goes click, click and stops. Awe come on, dont do this to
me now, Jill pounds her fist on the steering wheel. Out of desperation Jill
turns the key one more time and the old car comes to life.
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Mr. McClain an eight five year old man from Hungry has been running
a small grocery store in the neighborhood years, and its not far from Jill
apartment which is really convenient for her. On nice days before the virus,
Jill would walk or ride her bike to the grocery store; she would enjoy the fresh
air and exercise. As soon as Jill turns the corner a group of infected come
roaming downs the street. They stop look at her for an unnerving amount of
time but turn away.
The small grocery store is a lot like Mr. McClain old school; he tried to
keep the atmosphere of his country, but had to recently make some changes
because customers were complaining. Jill walks up to the old wooden door
with four glass panes. A bell attached just above the door and it rings when
someone enters. Well I am surprised to see you out alone today, wheres
Bobby, the old man asks peeping over a set of wire framed glasses. I
decided to come alone; hows the wife and kids, Jill tries to change the
subject before he calls Bobby. Mr. McClain only shakes his head, These
young people always in a hurry, he says continuing to price some can food.
What was that sir, Jill was taught to respect her elders. Oh nothing just an
old man talking to himself, he declares.
Jill pulls out her envelope shopping list and begins placing groceries
in the wire basket shopping cart. For a long time Mr. McClain only had small
flat carts with a handle, similar to a wagon, but customers began to complain
so about a year ago he brought these heavy metal shopping carts. Jill has a
certain way she shops putting her can and other foods in first on the bottom
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of the cart, and then placing a clean plastic trash bag down on top of them,
the meat goes on top of that.
All the other items are checked off and are in the shopping cart, now
its time for the meat. Jill stands in front of the small meat section trying to
decide what to get, while looking at the red meat it jogs her memory. Her
cycle has been going on and off, and it feels like its starting right now. Oh
my God, if the infected get a scent of my blood.. Jill grabs a pack of steak
and fish hurrying up to the single check out. Dont panic, noting will happen,
just act natural everything will be fine, she mumbles trying to remain calm.
Well did you find everything, Mr. McClain asks he is happy to finally
see a customer; his business has really suffered since the virus broke out in
Rock Hill. He has even delivered groceries to some peoples homes that were
too afraid to get out. Yes, I found everything, thank you, Jill forces a
nervous smile. Are you feeling alright, you look pail, Mr. McClain says
sliding the groceries over the scanner, something else new he just
purchased. I hope youre not coming down with that virus, its something.
The old man stops and glances out the front window to see if any infected
are nearby. Oh no, dont put that one me, I am fine, Jill cant smile because
shes thinking how she came without Bobby and shes on her period.
That will be 89.80, Mr. McClain says starting to bag up Jill things.
Wow sir, your prices sure went up, Jill frowns at him. I am sorry Jill, but
since the virus Ive had to raise prices to stay in business, not many people
coming out you know. Do you want me to take these to your car? Mr.
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McClain collects the money and places the three bags in the cart. Yes I do
need you to help me. For those prices I should get something extra, Jill
thinks as they walk out together.
Outside the wind has picked up the snow had stopped, but has begun
to fall again. Mr. McClain is very nervous about being outside even for a few
minutes; he looks all around to see if any infected are nearby. Jill pops open
the trunk and the old man places the bags inside. From out of nowhere six
infected, four men and two women come charging at them. Mr. McClain is
terrified, Thanks for your business, the old man runs as fast as he can back
to the store, getting inside and locking the door.
When Jill sees the infected running she knows they are coming for
her. She cant believe Mr. McClain just left her there, but she cant worry
about that now. Try to stay calm, find the key and get the door open, she
says to herself. The virus infected people are only a few feet away now; Jill
can see their long teeth drooling for the sweet red blood running through her.
She jumps in and as soon as the door slams the infected crashes into the
side of her car moving it a bit. Now fear begins to filter through the young
womans body, her hand is trembling as Jill tries to get the key in the ignition.
Three of the monsters are on one side of the car and three are on the other,
they growl at her through the now seemly thin window glass that separate Jill
from a horrible death.
Jill is so terrified she freezes just sitting there staring at the once
human people. Suddenly she comes to herself and turns the ignition but the
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old the Chevy clicks and clicks but does not start. Oh God no, she screams.
The smell of her blood excites the infected men and women; one of them
finds a piece of black metal pipe from a building that was torn down across
the street. Jill watches in terror as one of the infected starts pounding on the
glass window of the passenger side of the car with the pipe. Frantically she
turns the key again but the car just clicks. Mr. McClain is watching from his
front window too terrified to do anything to help her. When he finally gets the
nerve to call for help, the infected smell the fresh meat in the back of his
store, they throw bricks through the one large window in the front, and begin
coming in. Quickly the old man runs to the small bathroom and locks himself
in. One of the infected stands out front and howls calling several more of the
once human creatures to the feast.
Outside the six infected are still after Jill, pieces of glass are raining
on her as Jills passengers window gives way. She turns and turns the key,
Please let this piece of crap car start, she mumbles. The infected man with
the pipe has broken through the window and has half of his body inside the
car, he is grabbing at Jill with his long fingernail like claws. A hot piercing
pain suddenly rushes through her thigh, the creature has scratcher her. Fresh
blood excites the man even more and he continues to pull and grab at her.
Girl if you dont fight youll die here today, this thought rushes through Jills
mind. She looks down at her bleeding thigh anger and rage fills up in her,
with clinched fists she swings hitting the man in the face, this stuns him for a
few minutes but he quickly starts after Jill again. The only thought running
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through Jills mind now is to kill this thing; she suddenly remembers the gun
in her purse. She swings hard at the man again this time hitting him in one of
the coal black eyes. The creature screams like a wolf holding his eye, Jill
grabs her purse her hand quickly clinches the revolver, Bobby was afraid to
give her an automatic.
A loud deafening explosion of the gun fills the car; pieces of pink
brain matter, broken skull parts, hair, and blood spray the seats and roof. Jill
turns the ignition and the old Chevy finally starts; she floors the accelerator
and speeds away. One of the infected women grabs hold to the hood of the
car holding on tight. Jill is infuriated thinking that the creature wounded her,
she gets the old Chevy going as fast as it can, all of a sudden she slams on
the brakes. The woman goes flying to the ground, as she struggles to get up
Jill floors it again there are two hard bumps the infected woman is crushed to
death. While she is stopped Jill gets out and grabs the headless man by his
feet pulling him out to the ground, and kicking his body several times
bursting into tears. You bastard, she shouts.
Suddenly the sound of people running can be heard, the infected are
coming in her direction. Frightened and bleeding badly Jill jumps back in the
car speeding away before any more creatures can attack her. Once she gets
back to her apartment Jill breaks down, with her arms on the steering wheel
she weeps bitterly. Her relief is short because another group of infected are
walking down the street. Jill knows that if she gets out of the car with her
cycle on and bleeding from her leg she wont get but a few feet before she
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attacked. She remembers a roll a paper towels she brought back at the store,
Jill jumps out of the car and drags her bleeding leg across the black top, her
white tennis shoe red with blood. She pops open the trunk grabbing the
paper towels. Ripping the package open Jill does not worry about who sees
her, she pulls down her jeans and panties rolls almost half of the paper
towels sticking it between her legs, and then pulls her jeans back up. Now
with the rest of the paper towels Jill wraps her bleeding thigh. The infected
are about thirty yards away, Jill wants to scream from the pain in her leg, but
she knows that will only attract more infected. She stands up takes off her
coat and raps it around her waist, hoping to hide the smell of blood. Jill
remembers when she first started her cycle in middle school she had to do
the same thing.
Tears are streaming down Jills face from the pain; she drags the
injured leg up the short flight of steps to the front door. The infected are at
her car now eating the bloody fragments from the mans head, and trying to
lick the blood off the seats. With trembling hands the terrified woman
fumbles with the keys, finally Jill finds the right one and opens the door. All of
a sudden everything gets dim; she stumbles in the door falling to the floor.
Suddenly the horrifying sound of people running can be heard, the infected
must have got a scent of her blood. Just barely conscious Jill uses her good
leg to slam the door and stretches her foot to turn the lock. Loud thumping
can be heard as the infected run and pound against the front door. Jill slowly
drags herself across the polished wood floor to the phone sitting on a small
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table down the hallway. This all seems like some horrible dream, the virus is
infecting so many people and the way they become afterwards. I wonder if I
will get the virus now; man I glad I kept that land line, Jill thinks straining to
reach the cordless phone standing on its charger. She has to dial the number
several times because Jill can barely see now, but finally the call goes
through.
At the sheriff station Mrs. Harris is still trying to talk Bobby into letting
her go because she can sense other infected nearby. No you are not
leaving, Bobby repeats. But I am normal look, the beautiful woman raises
her top to expose her breast. Before Bobby can get a good look the phone
rings. 911 emergencies how I can help you, Bobby says. The voice is so
weak she can barely be heard, Bobbythis is.Jill Ive been attacked,
she drops the phone and falls, her head hitting the wood floor with a thud.
Oh my God no, Bobby quickly calls Peggy, Hey Peg weve got a problem,
Jill has been attacked she just called me from her apartment. Oh
no.how, Peggy is in the living room playing with her sons train. I need
you to come over and watch the station; I am going to see about Jill, Bobby
pulls an extra shotgun from the gun cabinet again. You go ahead sheriff; Ill
be there in a few minutes. Peggy calls her sister so she can keep Jason her
son.
The sheriff jumps in his cruiser flipping on the lights and siren, but
after a few blocks the loud sound seems annoy the infected so he turns them
off. When Sheriff Smith turns the corner on the street Jills lives on he sees a
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group of the infected surrounding her car. Bobby panics. I no, I am too late.
Calm down Bobby she called you, she must be alive, he mumbles. Bobby
pulls up not far from his girlfriends car he peeks in just to make sure Jill was
not there. The groups of the infected are still finishing up the blood and brain
fragments in the car. Sheriff Bobby Smith has been in law enforcement for
many years, but has never seen anything like this.
As soon as Bobby steps out of the curser he grabs the extra shot gun
pulls back the pump and has it ready, none of these freaks are going to stop
him from helping Jill. He is also carrying an extra pistol behind his belt which
is also ready; sweat is beginning to pour from Bobbys head as he slowly
walks past the infected at the car. They stop eating and look at him, but
notice the weapons and dont smell any blood so they continue fighting for
the scraps. Bobby is at Jills front door now, he turns the knob, but its locked.
JillJill can you hear me, the sheriff shouts. Several minutes pass but there
is no response. Ive got to get in there, Bobby takes his shoulder and rams
the door, it gives a little. He is worried about Jill, so the big man raises his leg
and kicks the door cracking the frame.
Jill is lying on the hallway floor in a pool of blood. Jill, Jill, can you hear
me, Bobby gently shakes her. With her eyes half open she says, Bobby is
that you? Jills thigh is still bleeding badly, Bobby runs to the bathroom
grabbing every towel he sees. He takes one towel and spins it to make a
cats tail, then raps it as tight as he can on her thigh to stop the bleeding.
The remaining towels are used to absorb all the blood. Ok Jill try to wake up,
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we have to get out of here, Bobby helps her up. She strains to open her
eyes, Jill frowns holding her head, Man my head hurts. Bobbys face
suddenly fills with fear because when Jill finally opens her eyes they are coal
black; it was like looking into two deep empty holes. Bobby doesnt want to
believe it, but he knows she is catching the virus. Ive got to find someone
to help us, he grabs his cell phone searching through phone numbers.
I wonder if Rock Hill will ever be the same, Bobby thinks as he
searches through the numbers in his cell phone. He finds Doctor John Harper
director of the Piedmont hospital; they met while Bobby was investigating on
of the attacks. Finally after several long rings This is John Harper, whats the
emergency, he whispers. Is something wrong, I can barely hear you,
Bobby says. You know weve been overrun, Ive been hiding in my office for
a few days now; I accidently cut my hand opening some letters, and the
infected have been trying to find me ever since. Ive called.. Suddenly an
infected man burst into the doctors office. John is under his desk and can
see the mans legs. Doctor Harper, Bobby says. John quickly covers his cell
phone with his hand. The deranged man walks past Johns desk several times
but does not see him. I think its safe now, so what is your problem, John
asks Bobby. My girlfriend has been scratched by one of the infected, can
you help us, desperation can be heard in Bobbys voice. The first thing you
need to do is pray the CDC comes up with an anti-dose soon or they will be
no hope for any of us. In the meantime get a gun and keep it close, because
once your girlfriend gets to the final stage of the virus she will be better off
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dead, Doctor Harper explains. What do you mean doc, Bobby was hoping
for something encouraging, he can never kill Jill; he has always secretly loved
her. I mean once the virus takes complete control the only thing an infected
person wants or understands is blood, nothing else matters. I can never kill
my girlfriend, what else can I do? You need to isolate her someway, keep
her away from any and all blood, and please dont bring her here, Doctor
says. I know doc, I seen what the infected has done to the hospital, did you
call the National Guard? Yes, but they could not promise they were
coming, John whispers. Well hang in there, if I find anyone to help you Ill
send them your way, Bobby says hanging up.
Jill has lost so much blood she passes out. Bobby hurries outside and
brings his cruiser to the back of the apartment trying not to arouse any
attention. Luckily there are no infected close by, gently Bobby carries Jills
motionless body to the car laying her on the back seat. Before he can close
the door a group of infected come charging at them, they smell the fresh
blood from Jills leg. Bobby grabs the shotgun off his shoulder and begins
firing, hitting a man in the head and a woman in the chest. Most of the
infected stop to feed on the fallen, but one deranged woman tries to get Jills
leg. While Bobby was on the police force he was called the fasted draw in his
precinct. It seemed like only seconds the pistol is out and three shots hit
their mark, the woman falls to the ground. Bobby slams the door and jumps
behind the wheel, before he can get from behind the apartment another

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infected man is standing in the road, Bobby floors it and there is the sound of
bones crushing as the cruiser runs over him.
When Sheriff Bobby Smith gets back to the station Peggy is already
there, she has cleared off a couple of desk and pushed them together to lay
Jill on. Right after high school Peggy went to college for nursing and almost
completed it, but she ran into money problems and had to drop out, thats
when she came to the sheriff department. Tears fill Bobbys eyes as he
carries Jill inside and lays her on the desks. What happened to her, Peggy
begins treating Jills leg. She was scratched by one of the infected. Why
was she out alone, Peggy asks. I dont know..maybe she didnt want to
bother me, she can be so stubborn sometime; dam it Jill, Bobby pounds his
fist on the top of the desk. Hey, Ill keep Mrs. Harris covered she might get
mean with the fresh blood in the air, Bobby pumps the lever on his shotgun.
Ok Ill see what I can do about this leg. Peggy puts on some plastic gloves
and cuts off Jills pants to get to the wound.
The beautiful Mrs. Harris begins to change into an infected creature
growling at both of them. Anger and rage fills Bobby he raises the gun at her
hoping she will try something. Sheriff youre not really going to shoot her
are you, Peggy asks. These things infected Jill; of course Ill shoot Mrs.
Harris if she tries something. It takes almost an hour to stop the bleeding
from Jills leg. Peggy has a small sewing kit in her purse, so she stitches up
the long deep cut as best as she can. Bobby pulls some liquor out of a
bottom desk drawer, he was saving it for Christmas, but the holiday has
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gone now, and the virus still remains. Using his coffee cup Bobby gives Jill
small sips of the liquor, and uses the rest to pour on her wound. She screams
from pain when the liquid hits the wound.
All of a sudden Jill sits straight up screaming as she relives the
incident that caused her to be infected. Jill, Jill, youre safe now, its me
Bobby, he tries to put his arm around her but Jill pushes him away. The
young woman screams from the pain in her head, Jill eyes turn coal black
again and her jaws stretch to make room for the long teeth. Bobby has to
take a few steps back not believing the nightmare in front of him. Jill growls
like an animal ready to attack. Peggy open the jail cell, Bobby shouts
keeping his distance from the thing Jill has changed into. Peggy rushes over
to the jail cells so terrified she fumbles trying to find the right key. While she
is looking down the long arm of Mrs. Harris grabs Peggy by the throat.
A loud deafening explosion from a shotgun echoes through the sheriff
station, Mrs. Harris goes flying back up against the wall, Jill immediately tries
goes for the bleeding body as the blood begins to run out on the floor. Bobby
cant stand to see her like this. It breaks his heart but Bobby raises the
shotgun at Jill prompting her to back up. Jill is still in her right mind enough to
know what this gun will do to her, Peggy opens the empty jail cell Jill backs
in, and Bobby quickly locks the door. Are you alright, Bobby asks Peggy.
Yeah, I think so, Peggy rubs her sore neck feeling for scratches.
At the CDC Doctors Bridges and Weston are very excited about Simon
Reynolds progress, its New Years Eve and Simon has not had a reaction in
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three days, the doctors feel their anti-dose will stop the Feeding Virus. Allen
Bridges lets Simon out of his cage to call his wife; he has not talked to her in
several weeks, he nervously dials the number. Hey honey its me Simon,
he glances looks at Doctor Bridges. Is this some kind of joke, my husband is
dead hes been gone over a month ever since the virus broke out, his wife
says. Karen..its me Simon, he yells. There is a long silence, Simon is
that really you? Yes its me; I am at the CDC, I have the virus but they are
working on a cure. Oh honey Ive missed you so much, Karen starts to cry.
Ive missed you too, Ive been, Simon stops and grabs his head frowning
from the pain, and closing his eyes. Doctor Bridges runs over to him,
Whats wrong Simon? My head is killing me, he opens his eyes and Allen
whole expression changes, his eyes are coal black. Whats wrong doctor,
he screams. Here look in this, Allen hands him a mirror. For the first time
since the virus started Simon got a good look at himself, rage fills him. Dam
it doctor I thought you were trying to help me, he throws the mirror across
the room and it hits the wall shattering into pieces. Come on you need to
get back in the cage just as a precaution, Doctor Allen Bridges leads Simon
to the other side of the room, he very disappointed that the anti-virus did not
work.
Simon thought he was getting out of the confinement of the large
gorilla cage, but hes back here again. These guys dont know what theyre
doing, Id be better off roaming the streets, at least then there was nothing
to hope for, Simon thinks retreating to a corner of the cage. Allen thinks he
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hears someone talking so he returns to the telephone, and Karen is still on
the line. Simon, Simon did you hang up on me, the squeaky voice says.
When Allen picks up the phone to tell her about her husband but he hears,
Bob I told you my crazy husband was up to something, now he wont even
answer the phone. You were talking about breaking off our relationship, were
not breaking off anything, Simons wife says. Ah excuse me..Mrs.
Reynolds but this is Doctor Bridges at the CDC in Atlanta.your husband is
here and is being treated for the virus. Oh really, well good, keep him there
hes no use to me, Karen Reynolds says hanging up.
Its New Years Eve and Kim is up first, she has her MP-3 player
blasting as she puts on pot of coffee. Molly and Wanda decide to help Tammy
who has already started to cook breakfast. The smell of food cooking starts
to draw everyone to the kitchen, first Dillon who really comes to the kitchen
looking for Tammy, for a quickie before going skiing. He kisses her on the
back of the neck and quietly sits down. John shows up next, Wanda have
you seen my razors, he grumbles. What would they do without us, Wanda
smiles at the other women. Raymond wonders into the kitchen next wearing
a pair of shorts, a cut off tee shirt, and his oversized muscles bulge which
causes all the other women to stare. Raymond is smiling this morning for the
first time and everyone notices. Well you look different, Kim says first.
What do you mean, Raymond sits down at the breakfast nook. Youre
smiling, that something you havent done the whole trip, Kim looks at Molly
and winks her eye. Oh so you two have been fanning the sheets, Kim
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insists. Raymond and Molly look at each other and start laughing. Well look
who joined us for breakfast, how are you feeling Ray, Dillon says. I am
fine.why is everyone all up in my business, are we going skiing or what,
Raymond frowns. Yeah we are going skiing, but everyone has to eat
breakfast first, Wanda says placing pancakes on all the plates. Along with
pancakes the girls have whipped up eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, and grits.
While everyone digs in Dillon says, I suggest you guys dont eat too much
before skiing, you could get sick out there. Ah thats for chumps, I can eat
what I want and still go skiing, Raymond shouts taking a big helping of
pancakes. Ok, well see, Dillon just smiles at him. The group sits and talks
for two hours, they really seem to be bonding now in spite of their
differences, finally Dillon says, Alright lets go skiing.
Dillon and Tammy reach their bedroom first, Dillon you know Ive
never skied before, Tammy says stepping out of her jeans. He moves up
close behind her rubbing Tammys beautiful legs, Thats ok; Ill show you
everything you need to know. Lets not start something or we will never go
skiing, Tammy flashes a sexy smile. Dillon gets dressed first so he goes to
the den to wait for Tammy, when he gets there Jack, Raymond, and John are
also waiting. Why does it take women so long to get ready, Jack asks. My
Dad used to say, They enjoy making us wait, John adds. Many times I
wonder if thats not true, Dillon says sitting down.
Finally forty five minutes later the women come out, they all look
nice, but Tammy is dressed in a skin tight ski suit that reveals every feature
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of her perfect body, every one of the men stare at her. Kim, Wanda and Molly
hit their men on the arm, What are you staring at, they shout. Ok guys the
ski lift is about two blocks down the street, Dillon points. You mean we
have to walk in all this snow, Kim complains. They all moan and complain,
but drudge through the deep snow, finally just up ahead are the ski lifts.
Each couple gets into an orange car and a young man checks to see that the
bar is secure in front of them. Suddenly with a quick jerk they are airborne,
So how long have you been coming up here, Tammy asks Dillon as the car
carries them to the other side of Bell Mountain, the view is breath taking.
Ive been coming up here since I was seven years old, thats when my
father taught me to ski, Ive loved it ever since.
Back at the CDC Doctor Bridges is still working on Simon Reynolds, he
is taking another sample of his blood when the phone rings, its General
Applewood. This Doctor Bridges how are you general? I am fine.but its
New Years Eve how are you coming on the anti-dose? General we are very
close, our patient just had a little set-back, we should have it any day now,
Allen explains. Doctor you dont have any day, it was supposed to be ready
today, the generals gruff voice echos through the phone. Yes Sir I know,
but like I said we had a minor set-back. Well, just keep working on the antidose Ill talk to you later, the general starts to hang up. Hold on general, I
want to ask you something, Allen puts him on speaker. I heard from an unnamed source, that if we dont finish the anti-dose tonight you are going to
bomb Rock Hill South Carolina, Allen says. Thats absurd; where did you
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get a crazy idea like that, General Applewood clears his throat. Like I said it
was from an un-named source, Allen sort of smiles. Well you know we cant
go bombing a city or any place else without approval from the Joint Chiefs;
just keep working on the anti-dose, Ill talk to you later, the general quickly
hangs up. Did you hear that, Allen asks Stan. Yes I heard, but I dont
believe a word he said, the general has something up his sleeve, you can bet
on it, Stan sits down in front of the monitor.
Even though the doctors are in separate rooms they both sit with
puzzled looks on their faces. What is it were missing Stan? I am not
surehey why dont we try putting some more blood Simons cage, Stan
suggest. Well.what do we have to lose, Allen walks over to the
refrigerator pulls out a bag of blood and places it through a small door. Simon
has already changed his coal black eyes stare at plastic bag filled with the
substance that sustains all life, even the infected creatures. He quickly
snatches up the bag ripping it open and devouring its contents, blood dips
down the sides of Simons mouth. Now he paces around the cage and every
few minutes stops to growl at Allen. All of a sudden Simon stops with a
strange look on his face; he grabs his stomach and runs to the corner of the
cage, throwing up the blood and everything else in his stomach.
Corey is out of school for the holiday so he decides to stop by the
CDC and see how the doctors are doing. He walks in right as Simon throws
up. Oh man thats gross, Corey says stepping around the mess that is
running out of the cage. Well, youre just in time, be a sport and clean that
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up for me, Allen says. I am not touching that stuff, the young man
complains. You dont have to touch it just rinse it down that drain, Allen
points to a hole in the floor with a brass cover on it. Corey frowns but takes
the heavy-duty water hose and completes his task.
Hey Allen I just thought of something, Stans voice blast through
the speakers full of excitement. Whats on your mind doctor? The anti-dose
must be having some effect because Jake didnt digest the blood. Oh man,
youre right we must be close. The doctors begin working all through the day,
using Simons blood sample adding different amounts of the formula for the
anti-dose. However every time they put the sample in the computer to
analyze, it will go to ninety percent and then the computer says.failed.
Damn, whats wrong, Stan pounds his fist on his desk.
Excuse me sir, but you have a visitor, a security guard walks in and
says to Doctor Bridges Tell them to come back on Monday were closed
now, Allen seems irritated. But sir, he says hes kin to the doctor, the
guard whispers. Ok send him in, Allen cleans off a space on his cluttered
desk. A tall thin young man with dark hair and eyes walks in looking just like
Stan Weston. Hello, I am Paul Weston; I would like to see my father. Oh my
Godyou are his son, Allen shouts. Yes sir is he here, Paul shakes Allens
hand setting down his backpack. I know you father will be glad to see you,
but hes in quarantine, Stan has the virus. I figured you were going to say
that, Paul looks at Simons in the cage, What did he do? His name is
Simon; weve been testing his blood still looking for the anti-dose. To be
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honest Doctor, I am surprised to see dad is still alive, Paul says. Why is that
son, Allen has Paul sit in front of the monitor. In our last conversation my
father sounded desperate, and he said he loved me, something Stan rarely
does, Paul explains looking at his father busy working. Well how he got the
virus does not matter now; Hey Stan you have a visitor, Allen interrupts
him. Stan is busy checking and rechecking his figures, finally he stops and
looks up.
Doctor Stan Westons whole expression changes his words are broken
fighting back the emotion. Paul.is that you, Stan finally says. Yeah pops
its me, Paul places his hand on the monitor as if was touching his father.
After your phone call I havent been able to sleep thinking you did
something crazy and I looks like I was right, Paul shakes his head and
smiles. I am sorry son..it looks like you were right about the Feeding Virus;
I am sorry I let General Applewood talk me into creating it, so many people
have died.
General Applewood is an egotistical fool, hell do anything to make a
name for himself, Paul says with clenched fists. Speaking of General
Applewood there is a very strong rumor that hes going to destroy a city
called Rock Hill in South Carolina, if we dont come up with an anti-dose,
Allen says. I wouldnt put anything past that man..so whats the
deadline, Paul asks. We have exactly nine hours, Stan and Allen says
together. Thats not much time, how close are you dad? We are very
close, weve been testing Simons blood, the anti-dose seems to work but for
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some reason it wont last, Stan explains. Paul puts on his glasses looking at
their calculations, Its been several weeks since Ive seen this, but
everything looks right. Usually its something simple.well lets get started,
Paul takes off his jacket and puts on a white lab coat. He works with Allen in
the lab, coordinating everything with Stan in his room. All Corey can do is
watch and run out for sandwiches when they get hungry.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN
A hard snow arrives for New Years Eve in Aspen, Dillons group are
in the ski lifts on their way to the other side of Bell Mountain. Wow Dillon,
its beautiful, Tammy takes in a deep breath of mountain air her face red
from the cold. Ive watched people ski on TV and always wanted to try it,
but can you get hurt if you fall. Yes skiing can be a little dangerous, but Ill
even show you how to fall so you wont get hurt, Dillon he puts his arm
around her and they stare into each others eyes stealing a kiss. Ive
always enjoyed coming up here theres something peaceful about the snow,
he says rubbing her leg. How are your parents doing? Tammy asks trying
to get her mind off of having sex. She immediately realizes from his reaction
this is a tinder subject. I lost my dad three years ago; he had several heart
attacks as his health began to fail. I thought I was prepared for his
death..but I was wrongI really miss him, Dillon sort of turns his head
away to hide the pain. I am sorry to hear that, what about your mom,
Tammy had to ask. My mother has not been the same since dad died now
her health is failing.what about your parents, Dillon changes the subject.
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Tammy turns red when she says, My father is a policeman and he
blew a gasket when I told him I was coming up here with you. Oh really,
Dillon smiles to hide his sudden nervousness, Her dad is a policeman, Id
better be careful with this one. How did you get him to agree to the trip?
Oh I told him I am twenty one, and dont need his permission, Tammy
smiles. I bet that went well. Not exactly, my mom stepped in calming the
situation, telling my father he should let me go, so here I am, Tammy hugs
Dillon, Thanks again for bringing me.
In one of the other cars Raymond has started kissing on Molly, hes
ready for sex. Ok hold on buddy we are supposed to be skiing, Molly says
trying to push him away from her. Since he has started taking the Viagra
Raymond cant get enough. You cant have any more of those pills, she
declares. Oh really so you want me to stop taking them, Raymond smiles.
Molly tries to hold back her smile, but Raymond tickles her. She burst into a
laugh shaking her head, Molly really enjoys being with him again; things had
gotten so tense between them.
While John and Wanda are snapping pictures with their cell phones
the large gray cable that pulls the cars makes a grinding and a popping
sound jerking them a little. Oh my God is this thing safe, Wanda shouts. I
sure hope so, John says looking to see how far it is to the ground. Are these
things safe, Tammy ask Dillon holding on to the side of the car for dear life.
Oh yeah, hundreds of people use these every day, Dillon declares. The
jerking and strange sounds only last for a few minutes, finally the cars make
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it close enough to the ground to get off. Everyone in the group exit their cars
except John, who waits too late to step out and falls right into a large pile of
snow. They all laugh taking Johns pictures to send their friends so they can
remember this moment.
Back in Washington General Dale Applewood is starting to put
operations clean sweep in motion. He contacts one of his old college buddies
Lewis Burton who has been a computer systems designer for the past ten
years. While they were in school Dale Applewood was always the go getter,
he got a lot of women because of his brashness. Lewis on the other hand was
more reserved. Whenever he would get up the nerve to talk to a girl, Dale
would come along and sweep her off her feet, he has always resented Dale
for that. Lewis loved working with computers even while he was a kid, taking
apart some of the older models and up grading their systems. Now Lewis
works for a company called Software Inc. designing and repairing systems for
large companies like Lockheed and Bowing.
In the past year Lewis has made some bad stock purchases and lost a
lot of money. He is afraid to tell his wife so Lewis does small projects in his
basement which has helped him recover a lot of his losses. One Saturday
afternoon Lewiss phone rings, Hello Lewis, do you know who this is, the
strange voice says. No.not really, Lewis has a nervous habit of rubbing
his hand through his hair. This is Dale Applewood, do you remember college,
the girls. Yeah, I remember, you got all the girls even the ones I wanted,
Lewis can laugh about it now. I heard youre a three star general. Actually
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I am a four star but whos counting, Dale quickly says. Are you still working
out like you used to, Lewis asked knowing the answer his self-centered will
give. Well you know I am always trying to improve myself. Listen the reason
I called Ive got a problem maybe you can help me with. We are testing one
of the new bombers next week and I was elected to come up with a plan to
maximize the fuel consumption for these birds. So I am going to get the pilot
to go into glide to see how much fuel they can conserve, are you with me,
Dale asks. Yeah I am with you, but I thought you guys had technicians for
that kind of stuff. Yes, we have technicians, but if I can pull this off it will
make me look good in front of the Joint Chiefs, Dale gets off his treadmill
and sips on some water. What do you want me to do, Lewis asks. I need a
device that can shut off the fuel supply of a jet for lets say a minute and turn
it back on. How long would it take you to put together something like that,
Dale wipes his forehead with a white towel. Oh probably a few daysbut
whats in it for me. How does five thousand dollars sound, Dale says.
Make it eight thousand and youve got a deal. Oh looks like you grew a
pair over the years, that took guts; Ill tell you what Ill make ten thousand
just because youre my friend, Dale Applewood hangs up with a sly smile on
his face.
Its one thirty in the morning the night before New Years Eve, two
young soldiers stand guard over the B-1 and B-2 bombers at Shaw Air Force
Base, Sumter South Carolina. General Applewood flew in from Washington
hoping he can talk his way past the guards. Mike and Tim see a black
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limousine with two white flags each bearing four stars. A gray headed
medium height man dressed in an Army uniform with four star general
ranking gets out carrying a small package, Mike and Tim snap to attention.
What are you doing here sir, Mike says first. Oh I General Applewood; I am
commander of these planes. Sir, with all due respect, by orders of General
Glen no one is to touch these birds, Mike takes his weapon off his shoulder
and holds it in front of him. Now dont get all excited son, Ill just call
General Glen and straighten this out, we are old college buddies, General
Applewood pulls out his cell phone and starts searching numbers. The two
young soldiers look at each other and then their watches. Sir its one thirty
in the morning, do you think its a good idea to call the general this early,
Mike asks. No its not a good time to wake him, but to satisfy you I am
calling, Dale Applewood is really calling his house. Mike looks at his partner
Tim, What do you think? Well Ive seen him here on base during a
ceremony before, Tim says. Mike is not sure what to do, Ok sir, but first
whats in the box? All I have to do is mount this camera on that plane, it
will only take a second, the general points to one of the bombers. Well ok,
but make it fast our butts are on the line here, Mike raises the rope to allow
General Applewood to enter.
Out on Bell Mountain everyone has finished laughing at John, now he
tries to wipe the snow from his face, John even has to smile thinking again
how he feel head first out of the ski lift into the snow. Baby that was a
classic, Wanda is still laughing. Ha, ha, you didnt even stop to see if I was
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hurt, John throws a snow ball at her. Oh stop complaining and lets go
skiing, Wanda starts putting on her skis.
Dillon I am really nervous about skiing, Ive never done it before,
Tammy puts her arm around him. Thats ok you and I are going to start
slow, that is where well begin, Dillon points to a spot where the hills are
small a lot of children and older people are. I have to ski with the kids,
Tammy protests. Yes, unless you want to take a chance breaking parts of
that beautiful body, Dillon smiles gazing at her. Now lets get you into your
boards, he holds Tammy by her small waist and she steps into the ski boots
attached to the skis. She rises up her foot and tries to walk, Man you cant
move your feet without these skis, Tammy says. Thats the purpose of the
boot where ever you go the ski goes. Dillon straps on his skis, holds
Tammys hand and they start down the small hill her blue gray eyes wide
with excitement.
Molly is a beautiful black woman, five foot tall long flowing black hair,
and a creamy smooth skin that covers a naturally perfect body. She is also
wearing a pink sink tight ski suit, that enhances her large thighs and hips,
and Raymond cant keep his hands off of her. She met Raymond at City
College in Ingleside California, Molly was a business major, and Raymond
was on football scholarship also studying business. They met in an
accounting class; Ray was having trouble so she helped him. He invited her
to one of the schools football games, Molly and everyone else in the stadium
seen what an extraordinary athlete Raymond was rushing for over two
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hundred yards and scoring three touchdowns. It wasnt long after that at the
age twenty thee Raymond was offered a five year contract, worth twenty
million dollars to play with the San Francisco Forty-Niners. They fell in love
but wanted to live together a few years before getting married, Raymond
and Moly left college to live the million dollar lifestyle.
Both of Mollys parents are lawyers so she started skiing at a young
age, but Raymond even though they have been several times, cant get the
hang of it. Ok Ray let me help you this time, Molly offers. Dont worry, Ive
got it this time, He snaps on his skis and travels a few feet before falling in
the snow. Hey, thats not funnynow help me up, he demands. Raymond
has thought since he is such a good athlete he can handle skiing, but so far
its not true for him.
Tammy is progressing nicely she has made it down a couple of hills
and even learned how to stop herself. Hey I am really skiing, she says eyes
big as saucers. Dillon applauds her, Very good, he looks down the hill and
sees Raymond getting up from a fall in the snow. Ok I want you to continue
right in this area and Ill be right back, Dillon grabs his ski sticks and makes
his way down to Raymond.
Hey Ray hows it going, Dillon says coming to a quick stop pushing
up a cluster of snow. Oh its going good, I was just brushing up on some of
my skills, Raymond is still knocking snow off of his ski suit. Yeah, I can
see, Dillon holds back his laugh looking at Molly. Hey man.if you want me
to help you Can it Dillon, I dont need your help, I can ski just as well as
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you if not better, Raymond declares. Oh yeah, Dillon shouts. Yeah, do
you want to race and find out, Ray challenges. I dont know Ray maybe.
What are you afraid Ill beat you? Ok big man its on, whoever gets to the
bottom of the hill first wins, Dillon thinks this is a good way to keep up with
Raymond so he wont hurt himself.
Dillon puts on his goggles, Ok big man on my mark, one, two three,
go. Dillon starts out like hes in a real race, but quickly remembers Ray cant
ski well so he slows down. Raymond almost falls at the start, but his athletic
ability keeps him upright, before he knows it Ray is actually skiing. Hey, I
am really doing it, I wish Molly could see, the big man is quickly picking up
speed. Now Dillon has to fly and catch up with him. Oh my God this is off
the chain, Ray screams now going even faster. Speed is not a problem now,
but steering is, there is a group of trees dead ahead and Raymond does not
know how to stop or turn.
The snow is falling again hard and fast, so its getting difficult to see.
Before Dillon knows it the trees are right in front of him and Raymond. Hey
Ray look out for those tress, he shouts. A gushing wind is pushing strong
against the big athlete now, the cold snowflakes feel like small tacks sticking
into Raymonds face. With each bump or ridge Ray s legs have to strain to
keep him upright, the big man feels like he on one of the video games
speeding out of control, but suddenly becomes all too real. Raymond wants
to scream but is afraid, he can see the headlines now; NFL star caught
screaming like a girl on ski slope. The trees look like sticks before, but now
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they giants, and hes coming fast on top of them. Raymond decides since he
cant stop, hell just jump off of his skis. Ok Ray you can do this, he says to
himself. On the count of three Raymond goes airborne, he misses the first
few trees, but one tree catches his leg, there is a loud cracking sound when it
hits. The big man lands on the ground screaming with pain, and the snow
around his legs turns red from the blood. Dillon skis as fast as he can to the
wooded area, jumps out of his skis and runs in the deep snow to his friend.
Just on the other side of the trees Jack and Kim are having the time of
their lives taking pictures, and making snow angels when they see Raymond
speed into the trees, they run to help him. Dillon rushes up to Ray but stops
a few feet away. The largest bone in Rays leg has been broken and is
sticking out several inches, blood is pouring everywhere. Oh my God man,
Dillon says. John and Wanda arrive next, Wanda has to walk away and throw
up it looks so bad. John has never liked the sight of blood so he stands back.
Jack and Kim arrive to the scene next; Kims mother is a nurse so she has
helped with breaks like these before. We have to get the bleeding stopped,
Jack take off you sweater, Kim commands. What for, he complains. Just
do it, Kim snaps, she knows Jacks sweater is made of cotton which will help
absorb the blood. Reluctantly Jack pulls his arms out of his ski suit and takes
off the sweater. Now come over here and hold pressure right here while I
take off mine, Kim goes behind a large tree pulls her arms out of her suit
taking off her sweater and bra, then slipping her ski suit back on. She takes
her sweater wrapping it over Jacks and uses her bra to tie them tightly,
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Raymond screams from the pain as Kim pulls the bra tight, but the bleeding
is almost stopped. That was quick thinking, Kim I need you to carry my skis
while Jack and I help him back up the hill, Dillon says.
I cant make it all the way up there, why dont you call for help,
Raymond says. Molly skis up, Oh my God Ray what have you done, she
tries to hug him. We dont have time for that now Molly, we all need to get
inside the snow is getting worse, Dillon shouts about the howling wind. Hey
Ive got a signal, Wanda shouts. 911 whats your emergency, the young
mans voice says. Tell him we are on the north side of Bell Mountain and a
skier has a broken leg, Dillon says. We are on the north side of.hello,
hello, damn I lost them, Wanda says shoving her phone back in her pocket.
We, cant stay here lets get as far as we can up the hill maybe someone
will help us, Dillon puts Raymonds arm around his neck and Jack does the
same, now they dredge through the deep snow and howling wind followed by
the rest of the group.
Hey slow down man, Ive only got one good leg, Raymond shouts.
Hey guys look, we are almost at the ski lift, Dillon stops to let Ray rest.
Suddenly a loud mans voice comes blasting through the speakers mounted
through the ski slope. Attention all Bell Mountain skiers, a bad snow storm is
headed this way packing seventy to one hundred mile an hour winds, there
will be blizzard like conditions on the mountain, so the ski lift will be closing
in fifteen minutes. If you dont have a cabin we will take as many as we can
in the lodge, but everyone needs to seek shelter immediately. Ok guys you
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heard the man.Oh my God Tammy, I completely forgot about her. Kim let
me have my skis, John I need you to help Jack get Raymond to the ski lift,
Ive got to find Tammy, Dillon says putting on his skis and goggles. Hey
man they are going to close the ski lift in fifteen minutes, Jack yells. I know,
I should be back, Dillon grabs his ski sticks and skis off into the blowing
snow.
The conditions are getting worst by the minute visibility is zero, Dillon
tries to look for tracks but the blowing snow quickly covers any that are
made. He sees groups of people making their way to the ski lift, but there is
no sign of Tammy. Dillon has to take off his skis and track through the deep
snow up hill to the spot where he left Tammy, but on one is there. Tammy
can you hear me, he yells over and over, but only the howling wind
answers. Oh my God if something happens to her, Tammys father will kill
me, he thinks.
At the CDC its New Years Eve and its four hours before midnight,
Doctors Bridges, Weston and his son Paul pour and re-pour samples of blood
mixed with the anti-dose, placing them in the computer to be analyze the
probabilities of it working. Each sample would run up to the ninety five
percent mark, and failed flashes across the screen. Damnwhat are we
missing, Stan yells. All three of them go over the calculations looking for
one thing different.
Everything on Bell Mountain is covered in white, the wind is whipping
and temperatures are dropping fast. Jack, John, Raymond, Kim, Wanda, and
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Molly finally make it to the ski lift, Ok two at a time watch your step, the
young man running the lift says. Ok Molly you and Raymond go fist, John
and Wanda goes next, Im going to wait here for Dillon, Jack yells about the
howling wind. I thought this was everybody, the young man gives Jack a
hard stare. No, theres one more, but Ill wait for him, Jack tries to stand
with the wind to his back. I am staying with you Jack, Kim announces. Well
your guy better get here by the time all of you make it to the top the ski lift
has to be shut down.
At the sheriffs station in Rock Hill, Jill is in a jail cell pacing back and
forth as Bobby and Peggy frantically clean up the blood of Mrs. Harris and
they move her body to the back of the station Harris. Jill has turned and she
growls at them through the bars of the cell. Bobby pulls his pistol and carries
the feet of Mrs. Harris with one hand, and the gun in the other, Peggy has the
dead woman by the arms. As soon as they open the back door, a group of
infected is out there waiting for them. Bobby and Peggy quickly rush back
inside slamming the door. I guess we will have to leave the body here,
Bobby says. Weve been catching hell ever since this thing started surely
there must be an anti-dose or something by now, Bobby remembers talking
to a Colonel Mathews when this outbreak first started, he grabs the phone.
Who are you calling, Peggy asks. I hope someone who can help us,
Bobby waits for an answer.
Colonel Mathews office, a present sounding lady says. I would like
to speak to Colonel Mathews please, Bobby looks at Jill. One moment
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please, the lady puts him on hold. A few minutes later, This is Colonel
Mathews what can I do for you. Hey Colonel this is Sheriff Bobby Smith of
Rock Hill South Carolina, were catching hell over here, many have died or
been infected, the hospital has been over run, plus my girlfriend has been
infected, is anyone trying to help us, Bobby shouts. Yes sheriff Ive heard
about how bad it is there, but Doctors Bridges and Weston at the CDC in
Atlanta are very close to finding the anti-dose, just hold on, the colonel
says. Hold on, the sheriff station is surrounded by infected, suddenly a
sound of breaking glass can be heard. What was that, the colonel asks. I
think one of them threw something through our back window, Ive got to
gosend help fast, Bobby rushes to gun cabinet pulling more weapons.
The howling wind is so fierce Jack, Kim and the young man has to
hold on to the supports that keep the ski lift cable in the air. Ok guys Ive
waited thirty minutes we have to shut the ski lift down once you two get to
the top. Jack knows Dillon is great skier but even an expert would have
trouble in this weather. Ok I tell you what, send my girlfriend first, and by
the time she gets to the top if Dillon is not here, Ill go. The young man does
not want to but agrees, helping Kim in the car and locking the bar across her.
Kim is really nervous about the ski lift, and now the wind is pushing her car
back and forth, she has to hold her breath and pray.
Its a terrifying ride and there is a loud banging noise can be heard as
Kims car reaches the top, Ok man weve waited long enough come on or I
am shutting the lift off right now, the young man is angry now. Come on
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Dillonwhere are you, Jack has his head down as he walks to last ski lift car
and starts to sit down. I cant believe I am leaving the best friend Ive ever
had. Suddenly Jack sees the faint image of someone traveling very fast
toward them. Waitthere he is, Jack and the young man cant believe it
but its Dillon skiing like he has never skied before. Oh man I thought you
were not going to make it, Jack says patting Dillon on the back. I searched
everywhere, but I could not find Tammy, Dillon says gasping for air. Ok
guys have a happy New Year, the young man secures the bar in front of
them. Dillon and Jack make their way to the top of the mountain, Dillon is
really worried about Tammy, Man, if something happened to Tammy Ill
never forgive myself.
Dillon and Jack are now on top of the mountain walking the two
blocks in the deep snow back to the cabin. Jack is exhausted, but Dillon is
running on pure adrenaline he knows Tammy must been found, theres no
way she can survive out in this blizzard. When they get to the cabin Dillon
sticks his skis in a snow bank and runs inside, Has anyone seen Tammy?
The young woman hears her name as she walks around the corner. Dillons
face lights up, Tammy, thank God youre ok, I was worried sick about you,
he runs up hugging her tightly. Where did you go, Dillon takes off his snow
suit. Well.first of all you went racing down the hill with Raymond,
completely forgetting about me; when the wind picked up and it started
snowing hard, I came back up here, Tammy explains. How did you get back
up the hill? Jack asks. I caught a ride with a snow cat that was picking up
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people. Was there a guy name Lenny driving, Dillon asks his face now red
with anger. Yes, how did you know? Oh weve met before when he was
hitting on another woman I used to know, Dillon says trying to calm down.
Now Dillon.youre not jealous are you? Dillon does not answer he walks
into the kitchen to get a beer.
Molly is right up under Raymond trying to do anything to make him
more comfortable. Kim comes over and looks at his leg, its starting to turn
black and blue, she frowns quickly walking in the kitchen. Weve got to do
something about Raymonds leg its turning blue; this is not a good sign, plus
he is about to pass out from the loss of blood. I know we need to get him
to a hospital, but we cant go anywhere until it stops snowing, Dillon tries to
keep his voice down. Molly rushes into the kitchen, Will you guys keep it
down, Raymond can hear you. Dillon, Kim and Jack all look at each other,
Lets try to get him talking and maybe he wont pass out, Jack says.
Well Ray do you want to tell us how you broke your leg, Jack asks.
Well thanks to Dillon the master skier, we were racing and I hit a tree,
Raymond gives Dillon a hard stare. Dillon you were racing an amateur skier,
man thats pretty low, Jack reprimands. Yeah, I am sorry Ray, Dillon
extends his hand. Raymond just looks at his hand, but does not shake it.
Sorry I was trying.. Save the apologies, do you realize what youve done
to my career? If I had my pistol Id blow your brains out. Raymond..thats
your friend, Molly says trying to smooth things over. Alright guys lets cool

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it, what about the football game, Jack walks over and turns on the TV.
Football is like a pacifier to the big man, it calms him right down.
Jack pulls Dillon in the kitchen, Look man I dont know why you did a
stunt like that, but you need to stay away from Raymond until we get off this
mountain. Molly is on the other side of the kitchen trying to get control of
her emotions. All of a sudden, You damn, Raymond throws the remote
against the wall smashing it into pieces. Kim quickly retreats to the kitchen;
she looks at Molly and whispers, Is he always like this. Yes when his team
loses or like now when hes hurt. Dillon is in the other den looking out the
window; he wants to stay away from Raymond. Maybe we never should
have come up here, Dillon sighs. Hang in there buddy the snow will be
stopping soon, and we can go back home, Jack says walking up and patting
him on the back.
Dillon and the rest of group, pale into the formal dining room which is
adjacent to the den where Raymond is laying with his leg propped up. Dillon
and Tammy suggest they play cards. By the way Wanda, wheres John,
Dillon asks. Everyone looks around the table for him. Yeah, where is John,
Jack asks. Oh hes in the restroom, John has been a little sick for some
reason. Come on honey we are playing cards, Wanda yells at the restroom
door. A few minutes later John finally emerges from the bathroom with a
strange look on his face. Are you all right baby, Wanda asks dealing the
cards. Yeah, I must be coming down with something. John gets a lot of hard
stares, and he looks at everyone with nervous eyes.
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Its New Years Eve one hour before midnight, Doctors Bridges, Weston
and his son Paul are frantically working to find the right mixture for the antidose. All of a sudden Paul has a strange look on his face, Oh my Godthats
it, the blood of a wolf dad. Oh man, youre right, a wolfs blood thats what
we are missing; I completely forgot about it, Stan Weston says. Ill call the
Atlanta Zoo to see if they can help, Allen runs to the phone.
Hello, this is Doctor Allen Bridges director of the CDC here in Atlanta,
we have an emergency salutation. Have you heard about the virus that has
been spreading through the country? Yes Ive heard about it but was that
have to do with our zoo, Lisa Jones one of the zoo keepers asks. We need a
sample of wolfs blood to complete the anti-dose for this virus, can you help
us. I dont know sir, I would probably have to ask the director and hes not
here right now, the young woman says. Look ma-amwhat is your
name? My name is Lisa Jones, she says in a very quiet voice. Ok Lisa
heres the deal; you said you heard about the virus, well people are dying by
the hundreds, and if we dont get this anti-dose finished tonight thousand will
die, all we need is a sample of one wolfs blood, Allen is trying to be patient.
There is a long silence, Ok doctor, Ill have a sample of a wolfs blood ready
by the time you get here, but you must show some ID. Thank youthank
you very much, Allen hangs up and grabs his coat. Ok Paul prep the
equipment like we are running a test on a sample, but dont do anything until
I get back, Allen Bridges rushes out the door.

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Nominally the zoo would close by five oclock on New Years Eve, but
Lisa is there taking care of sick gorilla. Lisa is very good with all the animals
she seems to be able to read their actions to know how they feel. The
wolves are a lot like big dogs they travel in packs with feeding their only
motivation the difference is they are very territorial. Lisa knows to approach
they must always be fed first. Their last feeding was at five oclock so Lisa
pulls out some more raw meat and throws it in the section. Only a few feed
while the large males just stare at her. Lisa has never been nervous around
any animal, but she feels a little uneasy about doing this without her bosss
permission.
There is a nine foot fence built into the rocks around the lowest parts
of the section and a five foot fence around the highest parts of the section.
Lisa unlocks the gate with her key and takes a couple of steps inside closing
the gate behind her. She brought the tranquilizer gun just in case, so Lisa
tries to lure one of the wolves in with fresh meat. Holding the steak up in the
air one of the females comes towards her and stops a few feet away. The
animal is so smart she is waiting for Lisa to throw the meat out to her, but
Lisa wants her to come closer. Just like a dog before he bites the wolf sniffs
the air smelling the meat and Lisas tension. Wisely Lisa has already loaded
the tranquilizer gun, and is holding it with her other hand behind her back.
The curious female wolf is hungry so she moves in closer towards the stake.
Come on just a little closer, Lisa whispers. Four feet, three, two feet, the
wolf is close enough now, she throws down the steak and the female wolf
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goes right for it. With one quick shot to the hip the wolf lets out a yell and
falls down, quickly Lisa is drawing blood, but the large male hears the
females cry and is up on all fours staring straight at Lisa. The big male wolf
makes a howling type bark as it starts to charge; she almost has a full
syringe full of blood. The brave girl s hand is shaking as she pulls the needle
out and a starts running for the gate, a large male wolf is right behind her.
Lisa falls out of the gate on her back, pushing it closed with her feet. There is
a loud crash as the wolfs heavy body slams into the metal fence.
Most of the New Years Eve festivities are near downtown so Allen
makes good time getting to the zoo. Its eleven twenty when he pulls up to
the front gate, a high red brick arch towers over an eight foot steel gate
locked with a heavy metal chain. Allen peeps in as far as he can, looking for
someone to help him. Suddenly there is the sound of hurried footsteps; Lisa
is a nice looking young woman who looks to be in her twenties. Are you
Doctor Bridges, she asks unlocking the gate. Allen reaches for his wallet. I
hope this helps the wolfs were really agitated tonight, I had to tranquilize
one to get the blood, Lisa complains looking at his ID. She hands Allen a test
tube full of blood, he places in a small cooler with a rack for holding test
tubes, and bottom filled with ice. Thank you very much, Allen quickly
shakes Lisas hand and jumps back in his car.
At eleven thirty General Applewood calls Allen Bridges on his cell
phone as he rushes back to the CDC. Doctor Bridges this is General
Applewood I guess we got cut off earlier, how are you coming with the anti312

GC
dose? The sound of Allens engine revving can be heard in the back ground,
Were almost there only one more test and the anti-dose will be complete.
Allen swerves almost hitting another car; this gets the attention of a
policeman sitting in his cruiser. Hey ass hole, watch where youre going,
hang up that phone and drive, an angry driver shouts. Doctor you do
realize I told my bosses this would be complete by now, are you trying to
make me look like a fool, the general gruff voice makes what hes saying
even more irritating. No sir, just give me another fifteen minutes and youll
have an anti-dose, Allen sees the policemans flashing lights behind him.
Ive got to go. This cant be happening, Allen pounds his fist on the
steering wheel after he pulls over.
At Sumter Air Force Base the test of the new B-2 is about to begin,
General Applewood is using this guise of testing a new plane to pull off his
crazy plan. Captain Rodney Wills is flying the new B-2 plane while Rusty
Lawson is flying a B-1 bomber as an escort in case there are any
malfunctions. We are ready for launch general, one of the ground crew
walks up and says. Ok lets get these birds in the air. General Applewood
has a sly smile as he walks over to the pilots while they are doing their preflight checks. They see the general and snap to attention, Captain Rodney
Wills is the senior pilot. Let me have a word with you Rodney, the general
puts his arm around him as they walk off. Rusty can see the general says
something which causes Rodney to have a surprised look on his face. These
two guys have flown many missions together, over Iraq and Afghanistan,
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Rusty knows his partner pretty well. Rodney and the general shake hands
and the general walks away. What was that all about, Rusty asks.
Oh.nothing lets finish so we can get in the air, Rodney forces a smile.
Doctor Allen Bridges is only a few blocks away from the CDC sitting
on the side of the road waiting for the police officer to come to his car. A
heavy-set black man gets out of the patrol car walking causally toward Allen
drivers side window with his hand on his pistol. Whats your hurry sir, do
you know you swerved back there, he asks as Allen window does down. Yes
sir, I know; you see I am Doctor Allen Bridges director of the CDC. I am trying
to get this blood sample back to the lab; we are working on an anti-dose for
the virus and there is not much time, Allen looks at his watch. Youre going
to endanger the lives of everyone on this street for a blood sample, license
and registration, the police officer says angrily taking Allens license and
walking back to his car. Allen sits taping on the steering wheel nervously
looking at his watch every few minutes hoping time does not run out.
Here you go, so you really are a doctor now whats this emergency
you were talking about, he gives back Allens license. Have you heard
about the virus that is spreading across the country, Allen looks at the clock
its eleven forty five. Yes, I have a friend of mine that was infected. Well if
I can get this blood sample to the lab in time well have a cure. I tell you
what doctor, Ill escort you to the CDC, I want to make sure youre not
speeding again, the officer says. Allen follows the police car with his lights
on through traffic and actually saves a few minutes.
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Thanks again officer, Allen jumps out of his car and runs into the
CDC building; he hopes the guard is up front. Their waiting for you doctor,
the security guard opens the door. Allen rushes in the elevator, when the two
big steel doors opens Paul pours a little of the wolfs blood into the anti-dose
they already made. Lets hope it works, Paul and Stan Weston say
together. By eleven fifty six once the new sample is placed in the computer
for final testing.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Back in Aspin Dillon and the group are walking on eggs so to speak
after Raymonds accident, they dont want to do or say anything that will
upset him. Molly has seen him like this before she decides to cook steak for
everyone this will keep her out of his way. The cabin is soon filled with the
smell of fresh steak cooking which seems to make everyone hungry. Molly
also prepares baked potatoes and salads, now she is cutting Raymonds
steak into small bite sized pieces like she always does. Molly takes a deep
breath as she takes Raymond his food on a TV tray without the legs. Here
you go baby, she says forcing a smile. Wheres the steak sauce, he
shouts. Molly runs back in the kitchen to get the steak sauce, she gives him
the bottle and waits for some comment about the food. This crap is cold,

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Raymond pushes his food over and everything splatters on the wood floor.
Molly starts to run in the kitchen for something to clean up the mess, No,
no, Ive got it, Dillon sends her to the kitchen to sit down. He gets some
clean towels for the mess and gets down on his knees in front of the sofa to
wipe it up. You dont have to treat her that way, before Dillon realizes it
Raymonds big hands are around his throat squeezing. Oh my
God.Raymond let him go, Kim screams first. Molly and Tammy come
running in the den, Raymondyou let him go right now. Or what,
Raymond says sort of smiling as he tightens his grip. Jack sees talking is not
going to stop him, so he runs to get a ski stick, Dillons faces is starting to
turn blue. Jack has fear and anger on his face, as he jabs the sharp point on
the end of the ski stick into Raymonds broken leg, the big man screams with
pain, but lets Dillon go. He falls to the floor gasping for air. Dillon baby are
you alright, Tammy says helping him out of the reach of Raymond. That
was totally uncalled for, everyone says together.
Dont judge me..you dont know what kind of pressure I am under
to keep our jobs in the NFL, Raymond shouts almost in tears. That does not
give you the right to treat Molly like your dog and try to kill Dillon. In case
you havent noticed were on your team man, Kim burst into tears and
rushes off. Despite his show of emotions no one feels sorry for Raymond;
they all go into the other den, leaving Raymond all alone except for Molly. I
dont know whats been wrong with you lately it seems like everything makes
you angry, she complains. But you dont understand its a lot of pressure
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trying to keep your job. Every year new guys come out of college hungry
wanted a spot, one too many dropped passes for us, and too many missed
tackles for the defense and our jobs are given to someone else, Raymond
moves his leg and it starts to bleed again, he screams with pain. Stop
moving around so much youre going to make it worse, Molly looks closer at
Raymonds leg, the redress and swelling is getting worse. Weve got to get
you to a hospital.
Even though Iris Carter is wounded her will to survive pushes her on,
she uses back roads and wooded areas to make it to Monroe Texas. With
every agonizing step Iris gets weaker and weaker, her features are normal
now but the pain from the gun shot seemed less when she was reacting to
the virus. Iris stumbles several times but gets up and keeps walking.
Night is falling in this small Texas town; since it is New Years Eve
most of the residents are huddled around their TVs to watch the festivities in
New York. Mercy Memorial Hospital in Monroe has a skeleton crew working,
and for a change this New Years Eve is quiet. Iris sees the hospital and
struggles to some bushes in the rear of the building. Through blurry eyes she
sees an ambulance pull up, a man and woman paramedic get out and take a
patient inside. The woman paramedic is walking alongside the stretcher
talking to the patient. Iris sees an opportunity because one of them leaves a
back door cracked open. Iris drags herself to the vehicle grabbing the sides
of the door and pulling her bleeding body up. Inside the ambulance it looks
like a small hospital, she starts rambling through packages and bottles
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looking for anything that says antibiotics. The bullet in her shoulder begins to
bleed again, Iris can barely stand up. Finally she finds the package she is
looking for, but struggles to get it open. Where are my claws when I need
them, Iris chuckles. She takes her still sharp teeth ripping open the package
and pills fly everywhere. The desperate woman scoops up a hand full of pills
and swallows them, the medication goes straight to her blood stream; Iriss
body makes a loud crash as she hits the floor.
Neil Parker and Emily Johnson have been driving an ambulance for
the Mercy Memorial Hospital for five years; both are competent paramedics
and have saved a lot of lives. They had a short relationship, but it began to
affect their job so Emily decides to break it off. I hope she makes it that
seems like a nice lady Emily says as they walk to the ambulance. Yeah you
are always getting so emotional with the patients, just treat them and let it
go, Neil says, neither of them notices one of the back doors is cracked open.
Its been quite a day, Neil says starting to pull out of the parking
lot. After he goes over the first speed bump Emily glances in the back of the
ambulance, Oh my Godstop. Neil slams on the breaks, they lunge
forward and he frowns, Whats wrong. Theres a woman in the back,
Emily jumps out and runs to see if she is ok. She looks to be out cold, Emily
steps up in the vehicle. Iris is lying in the floor with only a hospital gown
covering part of her. Its a woman alright, Neil says glaring at her. You
mind is always in the gutter, Emily pulls down a blanket from one of the
shelves of the ambulance to cover Iris. As she pulls the white blanket over
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her, Emily notices the bullet hole in Iriss shoulder. She reaches toward her
neck to make sure the woman is alive, and Iris quickly grabs Emilys arm her
grip is very strong. Slowly the wounded woman opens her eyes, Oh no,
Emily quickly steps back seeing Iriss eyes are as black as mid-night. Oh
man thats one of those infected people.you better get away from her,
Neil says still standing outside the vehicle. For some reason Emily feels sorry
for her, probably because she looks to be her age. What are you doing,
shes infected.get away from her. Calm down, shes been shot, Emily
move closer. Yeah probably because shes infected..dont you get it, Neil
is in a panic mode. We cant just let her die in our ambulance; its our job to
save lives. Emily puts on a pair of plastic gloves to examine her wound. Iris
has not completely changed only her eyes are coal black, now they follow
the care givers every move. Emilys hands tremble as she pulls back the
blanket and nightgown to see the bullet hole. Iris jumps from the sudden
pain. Its ok; I am not going to hurt you I just want to take a look at your
shoulder. Iris seems to trust Emily; she slowly nods her head as approval.
Emilys touch is gentle, carefully she feels around the wound and for some
strange reason the bullet seems to have worked its way just below the skin.
Neil get up here and get me some tweezers and a scalpel; oh and a full
dose of morphine. Emily what are you doing, we dont know what this
person will do when you stick her with a needle. I dont think this is a good
idea, Neil complains. Come on man Ill take full responsibility, Emily
pleads.
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Neil looks around to see if anyone is close by, then reluctantly he
steps up in the ambulance. He tries to stay as far away from Iris as he can,
he even puts on plastic gloves just to hand Emily the tools. You know this is
not a good idea, he says again. I know, so lets do it quickly, Emily
motions for the morphine. Ok, Ive got to give you a shot for the pain, so
this is going to sting a little, Emily tells her. Iris nods her head shes in too
much pain to speak. Iriss beauty is still evident even in this state; she closes
her eyes as the needle enters her skin. Iris slightly opens her mouth reacting
to the pain; Emily sees how abnormally long her teeth are. Wow look at her
teeth, she whispers. Now just relax the medicine will kick in shortly, Emily
takes her hand. Even though shes infected Emily still treats her like any
other patient.
Emilys hand is trembling as she tries to make small incisions around
the bullet wound, but the pain medicine has quickly worn off, Iris starts to
move. Neil come and help me hold her, Emily shouts. Ok, but you owe me
big time for this, Neil says holding Iriss arms. Patiently Emily works and
works with the tweezers grabbing the bullet, and pulling it out. Iris sits up
looking at both of them and then passes out.
Back in Aspen Dillon and the group have eaten drank some beers and
watched TV, they are all exhausted from the days events so one by one they
retire to their bedrooms. Raymond is still angry about his injury so he decides
to sleep in the den alone. Are you sure you dont want me to stay up here
with you in case your legs bleed again, Molly asks. No..Ill be fine; I just
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want to be left alone, Raymond insists. Just as our sex life was getting on
track, now this, Molly thinks as she walks away.
The roaring blaze in the fireplace has cooled down to just some hot
ashes the fire is almost out. Raymond restlessly watches TV as the huge
cabin becomes quiet. Outside it is still snowing and some of the drifts are
almost covering the windows. Tears form in Raymonds eyes as he thinks
about his career being ruined, he twists and turns until his leg bleeds again,
but the big man finally falls to sleep. A quiet cabin is only interrupted by the
occasional sound of the furnace coming on, Raymond is in a deep sleep but
for some reason he thinks someone is walking through the dining room
toward him in the den. It seems like a dream, but Raymond cant wake up. A
man that looks to be sixty or older takes quiet steps toward the sofa
occasionally looking around to see if anyone else is nearby.
Suddenly the man appears right next to Raymond, but there is
something strange about him, his face is not normal. The two spaces where
his eyes are supposed to be are like looking down two dark bottomless pits,
when the man raises his hand his fingernails are long and sharp. Raymond
finally wakes up out of what he thought was a nightmare, but the man is still
there. He tries to yell for help, but a claw-like fingernail rips into his throat.
Silently the strange man feeds on Raymonds organs and parts of his flesh,
and then disappears.
The following morning a cloudy sky finally gives way to a bright sun,
and it has stopped snowing. Jack wakes first he is thirsty and has the
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munches, he walks and stretches thinking about how good the sex was with
Kim last night, the young man notices a strange odor in the cabin, but his
hunger and thirst override the smell. He pours a glass of milk and cuts a slice
of cake Tammy made. The smell is stronger now so Jack walks into the den,
but he doesnt see Raymond. Jack moves in front of the sofa stops and
stares; the glass of milk falls from his hand hitting the wood floor crashing
into several pieces. Oh my God, Jack runs to the bathroom to throw up.
Whats going on, oh man, Dillon and Tammy run to see what all the
noise is. It looks like Raymond was attacked by some kind of animal, Jack
says wiping his mouth as he comes from the bathroom. The only things they
can recognize from Raymond are his hand and part of his foot, Raymonds
face and other parts of his body have been ripped to shreds. Tammy turns
her head away from the gruesome sight; John and Wanda show up next.
Why is there so muchoh no, what happened towas that Raymond, John
asks. Thats just too gross, cant we get a sheet or something to cover this
up, Kim says walking in. I agree, Wanda runs to the hall closet and pulls
out some sheets, to cover Raymonds remains. Molly hears all the
commotion and makes it to the doorway of the den where Kim runs to stop
her. Whats going on, she asks. Raymond was attacked, Dillon blurts out.
Thats classy Dillon, Kim shouts as Molly comes unglued. No, no, not
Raymond.who did this, Molly screams when she sees her boyfriends
remains. Yeah Dillon youve got all the answers, who did this, John asks. I
think maybe a wolf, or a small bear. How did they get in, Kim asks. Thats
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what we need to find out, John and Jack come with me, Dillon leads them to
the front of the cabin, We need to check every window and door, make sure
they are secure and look for footprints near them, lets meet back in the
den, the guys run off through the cabin. The women are huddled in the
kitchen trying to console Molly.
A few minutes later Dillon, Jack and John return, Weve checked
every window and door in the place none of them show any signs of entry,
Dillon says. What did happen to Raymond, Jack asks. Dillon has a strange
look on his face as he stares at all of them. Hey do you remember that
newscast we saw about that virus that causes people to become cannibals,
one of us may have killed Raymond, Dillon rushes off to the computer in his
bedroom.
I am calling my father, Tammy looks for cell phone. Didnt you say
your father was a policeman in San Francisco, what can he do in Colorado,
Jack asks. Yes he is in San Francisco, but he may know some law
enforcement people here, its better than standing here like deer caught in
headlights, she dials the number. Hello Daddyits Tammy. Hey baby girl
how is your vacation going? Oh it was going good until one of the guys
broke his leg skiing. Oh I am sorry who was it Dillon, he father asks hoping
she would say yes. No, it was somebody else, but that is not all, something
came in our cabin last night and.killed him. What did you say, Mr.
Redmond is furious. I said.. her phone goes dead.

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Personally I think Dillon has lost it, because thats the craziest thing
Ive ever heard, one of us doing this to Raymond, its not possible, John
complains. Well.I guess a virus can affect anyone anywhere, Kim says. I
think we need to get the remains out of here before it smells up the whole
place, Wanda tip toes around the pool of blood on the floor. Yeah, youre
right, come and help me John, Jack says. Oh no, I am not touching that,
John folds his arms. Wanda goes to the kitchen and finds several pairs of
plastic gloves. Kim and Tammy can you help us, Wanda request. Ill help
you, Jack frowns at John who just stands there with is arms folded, and
suddenly rushes to the bathroom. Jack, Kim, Wanda, and Tammy work for an
hour cleaning up the blood and placing Raymonds body parts in garbage
bags. Something or someone very powerful did this to Raymond, Jack
comments.
What can we do with this bloody mess now, Tammy asks. Weve
got a huge refrigerator right outside in the snow, Dillon says returning to the
room. Dillon and Jack work digging holes in the snow to bury the bloody
remains, while John remains in the bathroom. The women are in the kitchen
trying to console Molly. She loved Raymond even though he could be cruel
sometimes. Once they finish Dillon and Jack walk back into the den to see
the bloody sofa still sitting there. What do we do with that, Kim asks
walking in to see how they are doing. Dillon hands Jack a snow shovel and
they return outside to continue digging. While they are working on the hole
for the sofa, Dillon uncovers one of the bags with Raymonds body parts and
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pulls out a finger sticking it in his pocket. What is your problem man, Jack
screams when he sees the finger. Ive got a real good use for this, Dillon
has a crazed look in his eyes.
Inside all the women are still gathered in the kitchen trying to
comfort Molly who is crying uncontrollably, she is about to go into shock.
Dillon and Jack walk in blowing and knocking the snow from their clothes and
boots. Alright everyone gather around, Ive got something I want to say,
Dillon takes a plate from the cabinet. What about John, Kim says. Yeah,
where is John, Dillon looks around. Hes still in the restroom, Wanda says.
Dillon walks over to the bathroom door pounding hard on it. Ok John the
blood is gone you can come out now. John is a couple of years older that the
rest of the group, and everyone wonders if he is ok.
Now that we are all together I want to say something; ok what we
know so far there is an airborne virus spreading across the country, this virus
causes people to become cannibals feeding on human flesh, thats what I
believe happened to Raymond. Dillon takes the plate outside and puts a
scoop of snow on it. What are going to do Dillon throw snow at us, John
says with a laugh entering the room. Once a person is infected by this virus
they look like this, Dillon holds up a picture of an infected man, his eyes are
black, teeth long, and finger nails are twice their normal size. Oh man is that
real, where did you get that, Jack asks. I pulled this from the internet, and
someone in this group looks just like this when they are having a reaction to
the virus. Dillon, thats the craziest thing Ive ever heard, who put you in
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charge anyway, John gets up and starts to leave the kitchen. Look,
Raymond had issues, but he didnt deserve to die like that, plus I am the one
who rented this cabin so I feel responsible, Dillon looks at Molly. I heard
about that virus before we left San Francisco, some woman attacked another
woman eating her insides, Wanda says. Alright, Ive thought of a way to
find out which one of us have this virus, it is triggered by fresh blood, so I
have this, Dillon pulls out one of Raymonds fingers and puts it on top of the
plate of snow.
Oh my God, Dillon has gone mad, John declares. Why would you
want to bring that in here, Kim frowns. Yeah Dillon, thats not sanitary,
John adds. Now we are going to find out which one of has that virus and
killed Raymond, everyone sit down, Dillon demands. You cant tell me what
to do, John starts to walk out of the kitchen. Dillon pulls a thirty eight he
found in one of the dressers in his bedroom, and points it at John. Oh my
God, where did you get that, Tammy yells first. Never mind that right now,
Dillon looks serious so John sits down. This boy has really gone mad, John
repeats looking for someone to side with him.
Now I am going to walk close to each one of you with this bloody
finger, according to the internet just the smell of blood will cause an infected
person to have a reaction, Dillon has the plate in one hand and the gun in
the other, he plans to kill whoever reacts to the blood. Everyone in the group
become nervous wondering if they might have the virus somehow, Ok Kim
youre first. Dillon seems to be moving in slow motion as he steps toward
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her, Kims whole expression changes. When he moves the plate close to her
Kim frowns, but does not have a reaction. Thats gross, she says.
Dillon moves toward Jack next who quickly stands up. I know youre
not going to point that thing at me. Take the test Jack, so we will know.
Dillon I am your best friend, Jack says. Not if you have the virus; I am not
ending up like Raymond. What if I refuse are you going to shoot me, Jack
does not move as Dillon moves closer and closer neither is going to give in.
Jack is so nervous he turns pale white and breaks out in a sweat, Dillon
places the plate with a bloody finger right in front of his best friends face,
but he does not have a reaction, Jack exhales, Now you see I dont have the
virus. Ok, you and Kim stand behind me over there, Dillon directs them
with the gun.
The moments are very tense as everyone watches and wonders do
they have the virus, and will Dillon shoot them if they do. Tammy youre
next, Dillon walks toward her lowering the weapon a little, he really would
hate to shoot Tammy, but if shes infected he will have no choice. Dillon its
meI dont have the virus, you and I were together last night, she pleads.
Yeah except for the time you got up. Everyone gives Tammy a hard stare,
she is the newest among the group, and maybe she is infected. Come on
man I went to the bathroom, Tammy throws up her hands in disgust not
believing this is happening. Ok, since youre not infected prove it, Dillon
holds out the plate with the bloody finger. Tammy walks close to the plate
and smiles, Now you see I told you I didnt have that virus. Alright, stand
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over with the others, Dillon directs her with the gun. When we get back to
San Francisco dont ever speak to me again, Tammy shouts.
Wanda youre next, Dillon says. I think this is crazy testing for a
virus youre not a doctor. I am today, Dillon walks up to her with the plate
and gun stretched out. Wanda suddenly moves back from the plate quickly
putting her hand over her mouth and frowning. Dillon and everyone else
jump holding their breath, but Wanda only sneezes. They all exhale. I guess
I am allegoric to bloody fingers, Wanda says. Ok youre good stand with the
others.
Molly I hate to do this but youre next, Dillon looks to see she has
stopped crying. I know you dont think I killed Raymond like that, she
protests. I am sorry but we have to be sure, plus its not fair to the others.
Dillon walks up to the black woman and she backs away, seeing her
mutilated boyfriends finger on a plate is a bit much, but Molly doesnt have
a reaction.
Oh, so that only leaves you John, Dillon sort of smiles he hopes its
him he would like to shut him up. Dillon gives John a long hard stare
wondering how he could do that to Raymond. Well do you want to take test,
or admit you have the virus and killed Raymond, Dillons hand is starting to
shake hes beginning to get nervous. Hes never shot a man before, What if
he is infected can I pull the trigger, Dillon thinks. Go ahead shoot him man,
hes got to be the one, Jack yells. No, I want to be sure first, Dillon moves
toward John with the plate and gun, but for some reason doesnt seem
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nervous. Ok pick it up, Dillon demands. Why do I have to pick it up your
standing right next to me, isnt that enough, John complains. I want to see
you pick it up, Dillon still believes he has the virus. Dillon and everyone else
watches closely as Johns hand moves over the plate. The finger has almost
turned black now; Raymonds skin was a coffee brown. John picks up the
bloody finger and puts it down without any reaction. Everyone in the group
just stands there looking at each other wondering who or what killed
Raymond.
Baker leader to control, we are at the coordinates and awaiting
further instructions, Rodney says. Control to baker leader you have a green
light for the test, this is live fire test so go weapons hot, I repeat go weapons
hot. Rodney and Rusty cant believe what they just heard. Control we are
over a populated area repeat command, Rodney asks. General Applewood
who is standing in the control center grabs the mike. Son I know damn well
where you are, you were ordered to go weapons hot. The two pilots flip their
switches which arm the tomahawk missiles loaded with sub-nuclear
warheads. These missiles are not as strong as a full nuclear weapon, but can
destroy a city.
For weeks now the FAA has had men combing through the wreckage
of the military plane that was carrying the virus, but since its New Years Eve
everyone is off. There are four blockades on the main highways leading in
and out of Rock Hill South Carolina. One is posted on the north, one on the
south, one on the east, and one on the west. Each blockade has four soldiers,
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but Fort Bragg decides to let the three highest ranking men at each station
off for New Years. The senior soldiers were happy about the news, but the
new guys were not.
One young solider named Jamie Black is sitting in the small metal
building that has windows all around it. Jamie is talking to his soon to wife
and mother of his child Barbara, who is in Fayetteville North Carolina. How
did they let everyone off for the holiday but you Jamie, thats not right, she
complains. The commander said the three highest ranking; those guys
came into the service before me, Jamie explains. Well I dont like itas
soon as you get relieved I want you to straight over here and make love to
me. But youre seven months pregnant, wont that hurt the baby, Jamie
asks. No silly just get over here; hey I love my diamond ring it sparkles
when you hold it up to the light, Barbara holds up her hand. My relief
should be here soon, Jamie looks up the empty road hoping Private Rivers is
not late again.
Skip Walton never told any of the men he worked with he has a
brother who lives in Rock Hill South Carolina. Ever since Skips car accident,
he has been telling his brother Cliff about the powerful men in Washington,
and what they plan to do. I am telling you bro you need to get you and your
family out of Rock Hill, Skip says over and over. I just cant up and leave
man Ive got a business here. Cliff says. After midnight there wont be a
Rock Hill. Ok man Ill think about it, hey Ive got to go, Cliff says rushing
Skip off the phone.
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For the rest of New Years Eve Cliff Walton tries to forget about his
brothers warning but he keeps thinking what if its for real. He sits staring at
the football games on television not saying a word, this is not like Cliff, hes
usually up screaming on every other play. Whats wrong Skip telling you
about the corruption of the government, Rose his wife asks. Yeah, hes at it
again, but did you know someone cut the brake lines on his BMW and he ran
off a mountain side near his house, Cliff pulls Rose by her small waist close
to him. This is really bothering you isnt it, Rose kisses Cliff on the
forehead. Yeah, I just wonder why all of a sudden Skip is telling these
stories; hes never said anything before he has worked there five years. So
what exactly is Skip saying is going to happen? He says the big guys in
Washington are going to bomb Rock Hill to get rid of the evidence of the
virus. Rose is a curly haired woman with a thin but beautifully shaped body,
her whole expression changes. You know I would not put it past the
government, this virus started when their plane crashed a few weeks ago;
maybe we need to think about leaving just for New Years, if nothing happens
we can come right back, Rose suggest.
During the half time of the football game there is a national news
break and Rock Hill is featured. There are reports people all over town being
attacked by infected victims of this strange virus. The news caster warns
that the video my not be suitable for small children, they show a woman
being attacked by several of the infected; they drag her out of her car
ripping the womans stomach open and feeding on her organs. You know I
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havent felt safe here since this virus started, lets start packing, Rose pulls
Cliff by the arm; its eight oclock four hours before midnight.
About two hours later Jamie sits watching the empty road still waiting
for his relief to come, wondering if he made the right decision coming into
the military. Jamies dad wanted him to finish college, but one of his buddies
talked him into joining the service. Suddenly he hears the sound of an
approaching car, but its not mid-night yet. The car has a man, a woman, and
two children, and is packed with suitcases everywhere. Jamie slides open the
door and steps out of the guard house, Where are you going sir? We are
leaving Rock Hill, and you better get away as fast as you can, Cliff says
rushing his words. What are you talking about sir, Jamie puts his hand on
his pistol. Youre pistol is not going to stop whats coming son, you better
get away while you can, Cliff looks very serious. Jamie immediately thinks
this guy is some kind of nut, but he has to ask. Whats coming sir? My
brother works in Washington he gave me the inside scoop that the
government is going to bomb Rock Hill at mid-night tonight to cover up the
virus. I am sorry sir, but you cant leave the city we are under quarantine,
Jamie steps closer to the car. Look son I know youve got your orders, but
this is coming straight from Washington, you better leave while you can. I
cant leave my post, Ill be relieved in a little while, Jamie frowns at him. Ok
its your funeral, you cant say we didnt warn you, Cliff revs his car motor
and puts his car in gear, Wait a minute, you cant leave, Jamie pulls out his
pistol and points it at them, his hand is trembling. Oh my God Cliff, do what
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he says, Rose shouts. Well son I guess youll just have to shoot us because
were leaving, Cliff floors it, the car bursting through the wooden arm that
stretches across the road. Damn, the first sergeant is going to kill me,
Jamie mumbles. He rushes in the guard station to call in what happened, but
the phone is dead. Jamie tries his cell phone but its dead too. Suddenly there
is a loud noise so Jamie steps outside to see what is going on. He sees two
jets several miles up one of them leaving a black trail of smoke.
General Applewood stands proudly in the control room watching the
bombers on a huge monitor at Sumter Air Base when his cell phone suddenly
rings. The general has a surprised look on his face, its eleven fifty. Hey
general this is Allen Bridges of the CDC, we have finished the anti-dose,
Allen is so excited he can barely talk. Oh really, there is a short silence,
General Applewood starts tapping on his cell phone, What did you says
youre breaking up. General weve found the anti-dose, Allen screams, but
all he can hear is static. What did he say, Paul asks when Allen gets off the
phone. He didnt say anything the general hung up. Stan is listing to
everything through the monitor in his room, So the general is really
planning to blow up Rock Hill.
Baker leader to control, we are still awaiting instructions, Rodney
calls. Ok gentlemen it looks like the new bird is preforming well I want this
next test to be as real as possible so follow your strike command
procedures, General Applewood says. Both pilots shake their heads but

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proceed. The B-2 and B-1 bombers are flying so high that no one sees or
knows what they are doing.
While everyone in the command center is watching the bombers
General Dale Applewood has slipped his hand down into his jacket pocket
and pushed a button on a small device. No one notices the red light that
suddenly appeared in his coat. All of a sudden the B-1 bomber that Rusty is
flying begins to shot off because of lack of fuel. Ah, control this is baker two,
I seem to be losing power, the computer says I am low on fuel there must be
some malfunction, Rusty says trying to hide the nervousness in his voice.
Baker two can you control the plane? Control..Ive got a dead stickno
power or control..I am in a dive, repeat, I am in a dive. I think I am going to
ditch this one, Rusty stretches to reach his eject lever, but the bomber is
falling fast. Control to baker two, we see you on radar you getting too low
pull up or get out. It looks like my coordinates are over the Rock Hill Forest,
Ive got to bail, there is loud explosion Rusty finally reaches his ejection
lever. The big black bomber crashes right next to the spot where the last
military plane crashed, but luckily none of the missiles exploded.
Rusty keeps a cool head hes been in this situation before, thats
what Dale Applewood is counting on; hes hoping Rusty can get the crippled
bomber close to the first crash sight. The cold December air hits Rusty hard
in the face until his blue and white striped parachute pops opens and he
starts drifting toward the ground. As Rusty is descending hes still trying to
figure out how his plane lost all that fuel so fast, It just doesnt add up.
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Jamie hears the bomber crash and rushes outside; it looks like it fell
in the Rock Hill woods not far from him. Now he knows something is wrong,
Those high dollar planes dont just crash, Jamie says out loud. Maybe that
guy was right, but the government wouldnt bomb an American city, would
they. Jamie is in panic mode now, he just stands there in a daze really not
sure what to do. He is startled by a car horn, its Cliff and his family. Hey kid
when I saw the plane go down, I thought about you come on hop in while
there is still time. Cliff says. Jamie is almost in tears hes so happy, he jumps
in the backseat between the kids and the suitcases. Cliff floors it talking as
he drives, I told you it was coming kid. I still have a hard believing the
government would kill innocent people, Jamie says. The big bomb is
probably on the way right now so we dont have much time. Once this kind of
bomb hits it will wipe out a large area in just a few minutes so we cant out
run it, I saw a tunnel just up ahead we can hide there until its over, Cliff
shouts above the sound of his revving motor. The black smoke from the
bombers crash is filtering through the area, and Cliff struggles to see.
Ok Cliff whats your plan, Jamie asks. Alright when we get to the
center of the tunnel there will be are large man-hole cover we need to
quickly remove it and hide in the sewer. I am not hiding in any sewer,
Rose shouts. Ok you can stay above ground and let you skin bowl off your
bones, take your pick, Cliff frowns at his wife as they enter the tunnel.
Control to Baker leader activate the Clean Sweep, General
Applewood says to Rodney. The senior pilot types in the coordinates and flips
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a switch. A long narrow door on the bottom of the bomber opens and a white
and gray missile is dropped into position. At the push of a button the missile
is on its way. As Rusty gets closer to the ground he hears the missile launch
but cant believe it, This is got to be some mistake. A narrow band of white
smoke is pouring from the missile as it gets closer and closer to Rusty, he
suddenly realizes its coming right for him, frantically he struggles with the
cords of his parachute trying to get out of its way. All the terrified man can
see is a blur as the missile misses him by only a few feet, but the force
cripples his parachute and throws Rusty into the woods below. Every muscle
in the mans body is hurting or torn; Rusty is hanging high in a tree trying to
find his release lever. A bright piercing light suddenly fills the sky, followed
by a super-hot wind igniting every tree in the area. Rusty knows there is no
escaping a bomb like this he says a prayer before his body explodes into
dust.
Right after Cliff enters the tunnel Rose turns around to see whats
approaching; all the trees that line the highway begin smoldering and ignite
into flames. Maybe the sewer wont be so bad after all, she admits. Hurry
up its almost here. The motor of Cliffs car begins to smoke as soon as they
come to stop. Alright were here, kids grab as much as you can carry and
hurry please, Cliff tries to remain calm. The youngest girl Rebecca wants to
take all of her stuffed animals, No baby we only have time for the two best,
Rose says trying to hide the fear on her face. Jaime I need you to help me
move the man-hole cover, Cliff recently had surgery on his back and is not
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supposed to lift anything over ten pounds. Since the cover is solid steel and
oversized the two men struggle to move it. Once the cover is out of the way,
Jamie you go first so you can help everyone else, Cliff looks and sees the
white radiation cloud is entering the tunnel. Ok kids I need you to go really
fast down the ladder, Rose you go right behind them. But what about you,
Rose screams, she is worried how Cliff is going to move that heavy cover by
himself. Ill be fine you guys go ahead. Rose is in tears but she climbs down
the nasty ladder. The sewer is cold, dark and very disgusting; on the bottom
there is a three foot wide trench of black water filled with sewage flowing
past them. Rose wants to throw up, but is too frightened. The kids start
screaming when large rats go running past them trying to escape the
radiation.
Right up above them Cliff knows he has to move this cover or die
trying. He takes a deep breath and tries to lift the right way with his legs, but
it doesnt move. The temperature inside the tunnel seems to have gone up
fifty degrees; sweat begins to pour off Cliff as he struggles to breath. A
grinding sound can be heard as the heavy cover moves ever so slightly. With
each second the temperature raises, Cliff cant move the cover any further.
Come on Cliff time is running out, Jamie yells up the ladder. They all listen
but he does not respond, Id better help him, Jamie quickly climbs up the
ladder. Cliff is bent over the cover and cant straighten up. What are you
doing, I told you to stay with the others, he shouts above the now hollowing
wind. Sweat is pouring off of both men now. We dont have time to argue,
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you go below and let me get this cover on before we all die, Jamie helps Cliff
to start back down the ladder. Jamie has to strain, but he moves the cover in
position, it fits over the hole but the air is hot he does not have the strength
to move it any further, leaving him exposed to the super-hot radiation.
Jamie what are you doing theres still time, Cliff yells. But its too late the
heated radiation particles burn right through Jamies clothes blistering and
bowling his skin, his eyes bulge as the heat overwhelms him. In a matter of a
minute the young mans body is turned to dust, and filters down the small
holes in the sewer cover. Cliff holds onto the ladder weeping bitterly trying
not to let the kids see him crying.
Wheres Jamie the children asks. Hedidnt make it, Cliff looks at
rose. Hot radiation ash begins falling through the small holes in the cover,
Alright kids lets move further back away from this spot, Cliff takes them by
the hand. Once the super-hot radiation clouds get inside the tunnel the manhole cover gets red hot. Poor Jamie, Cliff mumbles.
Slowly the Walton family move further back into the dark nasty
sewer, Cliff and Rose hold tightly to the kids and they all want to just throw
up. Robert their son is six years old and is intrigued with the smelly black
water rushing past them in the trench. Dad what are those things floating in
that water, he asks. That is waste son it nasty and has a lot of germs, Cliff
looks at Rose they both shake their heads. The sewer seems to be protecting
them from the hot radiation but they wonder for how long.

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CHAPTER FIFTEEN

In Monroe City Texas Emily takes off the plastic gloves she has done
all she can do for Iris, now she just stares at new patient who is on the floor
uncurious. Neil take me to my place, sounding more like a command that a
request. Neil frowns, Please tell me youre not going to do what I am
thinking. Ah, you always have something to say about my business; just
take me to my apartment, Emily snaps. Neil mumbles something as they
both get out and close the back doors. What did you say? I didnt say
anything, Neil sort of smiles.
Neither one of them have much to say on the ride to Emilys
apartment, they just make quick glances at each other. Neil cant believe she
is doing all of this for someone thats infected. Emily looks back every few
minutes to check on Iris, and after a thirty minute ride Neil says were here,
he remains behind the wheel. Well, help me get her inside, Emily says
quickly getting out of the ambulance. Night has fallen, Emily lives in a very
quiet neighborhood so she tries to get Iris inside without making a scene.
Neil you grab her feet and Ill grab., Iris starts to wake up. They are both
surprised to see Iriss features have returned to normal; her green eyes are
bright and cheerful now. Wait a minute, who are you, she ask Neil and
Emily. We are paramedics; I took a bullet out of your shoulder. I am Emily

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Johnson and this is Neil Parker, were trying to help you, Emily extends her
hand. Iris struggles to get up almost falling but Neil catches her. Let us help
you, Emily commands. She puts and an arm around each of them and they
start inside. Emilys apartment is on the second floor when they get to the
bottom of the stair well old Mrs. Buckley comes out and asks, Is everything
all right? Oh yes, she just had a little too much to drink, Emily forces a
smile. The old woman looks at Iris like she wants to say she going to hell, but
just frowns as they pass.
It took some doing but they finally got Iris up the stairs to Emilys
apartment and onto a sofa. Thanks Neil, really, Emily extends her hand. He
smiles taking his partners hand and pulling her close, You know what I
want. Oh no, not now in front of a stranger, Emily pushes him away
walking into the kitchen. She rambles through the refrigerator to find
something to eat for Iris. Well since I am not wanted here, I guess Ill leave,
Neil pouts giving Iris a curious eye as he leaves. Emily sort of smiles and
waves good-by.
Iris is sitting on the sofa with her head back the morphine still has her
groggy, she falls to sleep and dreams about how she killed at the woman at
the awards ceremony. As she bits into the womans neck, Iris wakes up
screaming. Emily runs to her, Are you alright? Yeah, just dreaming my past
it was a nightmare, Iris pulls her long black hair out of her face; her Italian
heritage is very noticeable. Emily has Indian in her blood, she has high cheek
bones and caring chestnut colored eyes, they both are about the same age
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and this is why Emily wants to help Iris. What do you do for a living, Iris
asks. I am a paramedic, I enjoy helping people. Hey I made some soup; do
you like coffee, Emily asks. Oh yes, I love coffee, I cant get my day started
without it, Iris forces a smile remembering how things were before she got
infected.
Emilys apartment is nice and compact; a fireplace is in one corner of
the living room gives the place a warm cozy feeing. The kitchen is small, but
just outside it is a section with glass top table with four chairs, Iris gets off
the sofa stretches her shoulder and frowns. How are you feeling, Emily is in
the kitchen pouring the coffee. Oh much better, thanks, Iris sits down at
the table. How did you get shot, Emily asks. Iris gives her a hard stare,
Look there is no since beating around the bush, Im infected as you already
know, a friend and I were trapped in a hotel just outside of Huston when
hurricane Katy hit. We almost drown trying to get away from the water,
escaping to the roof. I was taken to a hospital where the blood caused me to
have a reaction, Iris takes a sip of coffee quickly changing the subject. Are
you married, I could hear that guy Neil has an interest. No, I am not
married, and Neil is just a friend, I havent found the right one, Emily sighs.
What about you Iris are you married? No.for the same reason, in a way
it looks like I wont ever get married, Iris has a sad look, she thinks about
Steve.
Iris watches silently as Emily pours soup in an oversized cup with a
handle. What did you do before you were infected, Emily asks sitting down
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with her coffee. I was in real estate sales and doing quite well, I was the
best in my state. Oh really my brother was in real estate, but when the
crunch hit he has had to struggle, Emily sees Iris is feeling better. Life was
so much different for me before this nightmare started, the only thing that
keeps me going is, I am trying to get back to Rock Hill South Carolina to see
a doctor named Weston, he is supposed to working on a cure, Iris takes a
deep breath hoping its true. You know Ive got a question for you, everyone
else is afraid of infected people why are you so calm around me. Oh Ive
heard about the virus and how deadly it is, but I am in the business of saving
lives, plus I just wanted to help you, Emily smiles.
You know Ive always wanted to buy a house, Emily says looking
around at her apartment. Its too bad but I cant help you, I only have a
license in South Carolina, maybe your brother can help. You know there are a
lot of good deals out there you just have to know where to look, Iriss eyes
seem to light up when she talks about real estate. What happened to cause
people to shoot at you, Emily asks. Well like I said I was doing well selling
real estate, I won an award for top sales person in our state and the award
ceremony was in San Francisco so of course I went, Iris stops to take a sip of
coffee. Ok, go ahead, Emily is ready for the rest of the story. First
everything started at the airport, while I was standing in line I began to
cough violently. A nice looking gentleman came from another line to ask me
was I ok, he went on to tell me he was a doctor, and of course I didnt believe
him. He said his name was Doctor Weston and I needed to get the cold taken
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care of. I agreed to do that when I had time, but this was not good enough,
this guy tries to keep me from getting on the plane, Iris explains. Oh my,
what did you do, Emily interrupts. Someone called security and the doctor
was taking away, I didnt realize until I was on my flight when something
strange started happened to me. First a blinding headache hits making you
unable to function or call for help; next my face starts to hurt and my jaws
stretch to make room for my enlarged teeth; and last my eyes turn coal black
along with my fingernails growing unnaturally long, Iris looks at her host
waiting for a response. Wow the virus does all of that what did you do,
she asks. When the headache hit I ran to the bathroom, and thats where I
stayed until it subsided, and I returned to normal.
Alright what happened in San Francisco, Emily pours them some
more coffee. Ok it was not until them that I realized that its fresh blood that
causes the virus to react. A man and his wife were toasting with their wine
glasses when the womans glass broke badly cutting her finger. She has on a
powder blue evening dress that is now covered with blood, the woman
rushes off to the restroom. Now I can feel myself having a reaction so I rush
to the restroom right behind her. Once I get inside and start changing, I seem
to loose complete control. My long nails and sharp teeth were no match for
the woman; I tear into her throat seeming to know this will silence her
screams. With a quick swipe of my long claws I rip open the womans
stomach and begin eating her intestines, Iris says with tears in her eyes.
Emily jumps up running to the sink spitting out her coffee, You cant be
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serious. Oh I am very serious, thats when I started running and why
people are shooting at me. Emily begins to get a little nervous now, but
tries to hide it from her guest. Now I am just trying to get back to South
Carolina to find that doctor and see if he has a cure, Iris looks devastated.
You know I heard on the news or somewhere that the CDC in Atlanta is very
close to finding a cure, Emily is trying to cheer Iris up. Oh really so maybe
there is hope, Iris forces a small smile.
Its evening the day after Raymonds death, Dillon and the group is
still puzzled on who or what killed the star athlete. Everyone is in the den
watching a movie on TV, but they are all suspicious of each other, whenever
someone would get up to leave the group, they all wonder what they are up
to. Dillon still has it in his mind that John is infected somehow, whenever
John gets up to go to the kitchen Dillon would follow him at a distance. Kim
gets fed up with everyone being suspicious of each other, so she goes to
kitchen to talk to Molly who is sitting alone. I really miss Raymond, I know
he had his issues but he loved me, Molly wipes tears from her eyes. I know
its hard but youll get through it. I am always available just call me if you
need anything, Kim hugs her giving Molly a card with her number on it.
Suddenly Molly stands straight up, Oh my God.. Raymonds parents, how
will I tell them; what will I tell them, Molly starts to panic. Dont worry, Ill
help you think of something, we dont have to tell them right now, just try to
calm down, Kim says.

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Night has fallen in Aspen, Dillons group is becoming sleepy, but they
are all afraid to go to bed. By two oclock in the morning John and Wanda
says, Ok were going to bed we will see you people in the morning, they
both say walking down the hallway. Ok good night, make sure you lock your
doors, Dillon suggests. John frowns at him as he walks away. Tammy gets up
next, Good night, she directs her words to everyone but Dillon, frowning as
she passes him. Dillon and Jack sit alone on the sofa now occasionally
glancing at each other. Hey look man I am sorry about all of this, but I dont
want to end up like Raymond, Dillon confesses. Jack stares at him for a
moment, I know man, I am scared too, but we have to keep it together until
morning. Jack shakes Dillons hand accepting his apology. I think someone
should stay up and watch tonight just in case, Dillon suggest. Ok Ill take
the first watch, you need to go straighten things out with Tammy, Jack
smiles, he always give him good advice. Dillon is surprised but agrees, Ok
Ill relive you in a couple of hours.
Outside the snow has stopped, but the temperature is dropping fast.
Molly and Kim finally make their way to bed, Ok baby are you ready for
bed, Kim asks taking Jack by the hand. Dillon and I think someone should
stay up and watch tonight just in case, Ill be there is a couple of hours, Jack
kisses her on the forehead. Oh alright, I guess I can do without you for that
long, Kim mumbles walking down the hall. As soon as Dillon enters their
bedroom he and Tammy start arguing. Kim slips on a very short night shirt
and reluctantly goes to bed. It only takes thirty minutes before she misses
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Jack so she calls him on his cell. Hey big man, what are you doing, she says
in sexy voice. Watching a movie on TV, Jack responds trying not to take his
attention away from the movie. I am missing you already, Ive been spoiled
and now I hate to be along; hey I am sending you a picture, Kim says. Jack
has a grin on his face when he sees a picture of Kims very large naked
breast. Do you see what youre missing, she whispers. Just hold on Dillon
will be here to relieve me in a couple of hours, and then Ill take care of you,
Jack takes a sip from the bottle of beer he started. Well.ok, Ill be waiting,
Kim tosses and turns for almost an hour before falling asleep. She does not
realize it but her period has just started, the fresh blood stains the sheets
and soaks into the mattress, its smell filters through the room.
Kim is exhausted from all the events surrounding Raymonds death;
she finally falls into a deep sleep. For some strange reason Kim is dreaming
or having a vision that a man is walking into the bedroom, and standing next
to the bed. Kim thinks its Jack, Come on baby I am ready, she whispers into
a dark room still half asleep. The man just stand there which is not like Jack
at all, hes always ready for sex. Come baby give it to me, Kim sits up and
suddenly a long claw-like fingernail stabs her right in the throat shutting off
any chance of her to scream. Blood pours out of her mouth when the man
bites into Kims throat, the fresh blood excites him. As Kim starts to take her
last breath her arm falls over on the night stand hitting the button that turns
on the lamp. Terror fills Kims face when she sees the monster that is taking

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her life, his eyes look like dark pits. Now the man begins pulling and ripping
at Kims flesh feeding on his favorite organs as he comes to them.
Dillon did not get any sleep because he and Tammy just argued so he
relieves Jack an hour early. Hey man youve got another hour, Jack says,
but he is glad to see him. Yeah that was pointless Tammy is so stubborn,
you can go to bed Ive got this, Dillon says patting Jack on the back. Ok
man its almost two oclock in the morning, do want me to relieve you at
four, Jack asks. No, thats ok, you get some rest I am ok, Dillon insists.
Jack hurries down the hall to his bedroom taking off his shirt, and
unfastening his pants. Ok baby I am ready, he says quickly opening the
door. Terror fills him like and empty glass, Jack cant move looking at the
creature and what he has done to Kim. The infected man stops feeding
stands up and gives Jack a hard stare. All Jack can think to do is call, Dillon,
his voice choking with fear. At first Dillon thinks hes hearing things, but he
hears his name again. The young man pulls the gun from the back of his
pants and runs down the hall. Jack is up against the wall where the light
switch is so he flips it on. When Dillon enters the room the first thing he sees
is whats left of Kims naked body on the bed covered in blood. The infected
man has retreated to far corner of the room when he sees the gun in Dillons
hand. He looks just like the picture on the internet, the eyes, teeth, and
fingernails are all abnormal. So this is what killed Raymond, anger fills
Dillon as he pulls the hammer back on the weapon pointing it at the thing
that was once a man. Go ahead shoot him, that thing killed Kim and
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Raymond, either shoot him or I will, Jack shouts. Dillon hand is shaking
nervously hes never killed anyone before. Jack reaches for the gun and
Dillon pulls the trigger..but nothing happens, the safety is still on, Dillon
has never fired a gun. The man-like creature growls at them just like an
animal; he now realizes the gun is not a threat so he reaches for Jack, who
jumps out of his way. Terrified Dillon and Jack rush down the hall toward the
front of the cabin. Tammy opens the bedroom door to see what all the
commotion is dressed only in a short night gown. Dillon grabs her by the
arm, Come with us if you want to live, he shouts. Now all three of them are
rushing to the front door and the creature is right behind them. The effects of
the virus seems to slow his movement down some which gives Dillon, Jack
and Tammy time to get to the front door. Jack is so scared he cant get the
door open and the creature is getting closer and closer. Finally the door
opens and as they run for their lives the creature grabs Tammys gown
ripping it down the side, but they keep running. They are so terrified running
in the snow does not matter, Tammy only has a torn night gown, Jack has a
pair of socks and shorts, and Dillon has on a pair of cutoff jeans with no
shoes. All of a sudden two shots ring out hitting the infected man in the
chest, he tries to keep going but another shot is fired, and down the man
goes falling in the snow covered walkway just outside the front door, the
white snow beneath him turns red with his blood.
To Jacks surprise a snow cat and two highway patrol cars at sitting in
front of the cabin. One Park Ranger and two Highway Patrolmen rush up to
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them, one of the men puts a coat around Tammy. Man are we glad to see
you, but how did you know we needed help, Jack asks. I forgot to tell you
while Tammy was arguing with me she got a signal on her cell phone and
called for help, Dillon explains putting his arms around Tammy. Thanks for
saving me, she says giving him a kiss. Jack sort of smiles until he thinks
about poor Kim. Hey whats all the commotion, John and Wanda stop just
inside the doorway. Now everyone watches in amazement as the infected
man features returns to normal. Oh my God, its Mr. Winfield the man I
rented the cabin from, Dillon says. He must have caught the virus and was
afraid to go out until you guys can along, one of the Highway Patrolmen
says. Dillon and his group can head home now; they are minus two of their
members, but they have had an experience they will never forget.
Back in Rock Hill the streets are crawling with groups of infected men
women and children, White, Black, Mexican, and Indian everyone has been
infected either directly or indirectly. People who are not infected are afraid to
go out because the attacks have been so numerous. At the sheriffs station in
Rock Hill things seem to settling down for the first time in weeks. Jill has
returned to normal, Sheriff Bobby Smith wants to let her out of the jail cell
but Mrs. Harris body is still in the back of the office. They stare at each other
shedding tears and whispering, I love you, to each other. Peggy feels a
little uncomfortable so she decides to go out on the porch, luckily the
infected have wondered away from the station. Peggy sits in the white
rocking chair wondering if all this is really happening and will it ever end.
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Suddenly a bright light followed by an enormous explosion rocks the
whole city. Peggy jumps up and tries to run, but the blinding light burns her
eyes to the point she cant see, Peggy falls to her knees. The brave woman
crawls to the front door to warn the sheriff, but her skin begins to bowl and
falls dead. The front door of the sheriffs station blows open and Bobby cant
believe his eyes; a white mushroom cloud looms not far from the station.
This cant be a nuclear bomb in Rock Hill, Bobby says as the super-heated
radiation cloud blows everything around them. Trees are up rooted and ignite
into flames quickly turning into dust. Bobby sees his pick-up truck blown up
in the air and turned to dust before it hits the ground. Sheriff Bobby Smith
knows this is the end, he runs and unlocks Jills jail cell. They hug each other
tightly, Good-by my love, Bobby says. Jill just smiles when she sees whats
about to happen, the young woman knew she was already dead when the
infected man scratched her leg. The sheriffs station is quickly turned to dust
and blown off its foundation.
John Harper the director of the Piedmont Hospital is still locked in an
office with thousands of infected still roaming the halls looking for blood. He
feels the ground shake when the bomb hits, John looks outside and sees the
mushroom cloud and goes to his knees to say a prayer for all the infected
and their families, he thinks about all the lost souls. The mushroom cloud is
full of radiation and super-heated air sweeps through the hospital, vaporizing
every living thing inside, in a matter of seconds the large hospital is just a
pale of dust. The majority of Rock Hill North Carolina has been reduced to
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rubble, out of the forty seven thousand residents; it is thought that twenty
one thousand mostly infected were killed in the sub-nuclear bomb blast;
General Applewood feels the Clean Sweep operation was a success. It not
only whipped most of the infected, the bomb destroyed all evidence of the
viruss origination, plus it wiped out the fact that General Applewood
sabotaged the plane carrying the virus.
It does not take long for the news of the bomb to hit the media, news
casters from everywhere drop what they are working on and rush to Rock
Hill. In Monroe Texas Emily and Iris are talking when the programing is
stopped, We have breaking new from a place called Rock Hill South
Carolina. Reports are sketchy, but from the information received a subnuclear bomb just exploded caused by a B-1 bomber crashing there. At first
count eighteen thousand are confirmed dead and another three thousand
missing. It is believed that many of the people killed were infected with the
strange virus that has been plaguing this city for almost two months, the
newscaster says. Oh God, no my parents; my brother, theyre all gone, Iris
stands up bursting into tears, Emily tries to console her. We are not sure
what caused the warhead to detonate, or why it was even on board a plane
flying over a populated area, I am sure an investigation is pending. Now we
switch you to the front steps of the CDC in Atlanta for more breaking news.
I am here at the CDC with Doctor Stan Weston who wants to say a few
words about the deadly virus gripping most of the country, a female
newscaster says.
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Hello I am Doctor Stan Weston, Doctor Bridges director of the CDC
and I have been working on an anti-dose for the virus and it is finally
complete. I know the anti-dose works because I had the virus and it has
cured me. Mass quantities of this anti-dose is being shipped to cities all of
the country; please, if youre infected or even if you think youre infected get
this anti-dose immediately, Doctor Weston says. Hey thats him, thats the
guy who tried to stop me at the airport, hes alive, Iris shouts. What will
you do now, Emily asks. Iris begins to pace nervously back and forth, Ive
got to get back to Rock Hill just to make sure none of my people are still
alive, after that I am not sure. How are you planning to get to South
Carolina, Emily is trying to get Iris to think rationally. I am not sure
hitchhike I guess. Iris starts to cry again thinking about her family. Emily
pulls her hair off her ears, and nervously taps on the glass top table. I tell
you what; Ive got a weeks vacation coming.Ill take you to Rock Hill on
one condition, Emily searches for her cell phone. Alright whats the
condition, Iris tries to calm down. Once you see about your family, you
have to come back to Texas and live with me, after you take the anti-dose of
course. Iris cant believe this stranger would do all of this for her. You
would do that for me? Yes, I need a roommate, plus I can get you a job at
the hospital. Okhey I really appreciate that, they hug wiping tears and
smiling, Emily calls the hospital.
In Washington D.C. the press is on a feeding frenzy trying to get more
information about the sub-nuclear bomb. First Harry Gibson has to smooth
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things over with the president, now the press in gathered in the pressroom of
the White House awaiting word from the Joint Chiefs. Alright Dale tell me
what you have, Harry says as him and General Applewood walk down the
hall toward the pressroom. The clean sweep operation was a successful
killing most of the infected in Rock Hill, the general is so blinded by his ego
and pride he has overlooked the fact that many of the infected left Rock Hill
for the holidays, before the quarantine or the bomb was set off. If these
people dont take the anti-dose the virus will still spread. General Applewood
was disappointed that NATO would not let the United States use the Feeding
virus, so thats why he caused the first military plane to crash releasing
secret weapon 396. He had to find a way to hide his first mistake, so Dale
Applewood caused the B-1 bomber to crash setting up his chance to set off
sub-nuclear weapon to wipe out all of the evidence, and Harry Gibson is
covering for him.
Do you have your statement ready, Harry asks Dale. General
Applewood glares at him for a minute, Yes, a B-2 proto-type was on a test
training mission over an area near Rock Hill South Carolina when it
developed engine problems causing it to crash. Unfortunately one of the
nuclear warheads it was carrying exploded. Whats our collateral damage,
Harry asks as they stop right outside the pressroom. Twenty one thousand is
the estimated kill. How are we going to cover all the lawsuits, Dale
whispers. Now Dale Applewood, youre not getting soft on me are you?
Harry gives him a concerned look. No, no, I was just wondering, Dale forces
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a smile. He does not want to look weak in front of one of the most powerful
men on Capitol Hill. You take care of the military end and let me take care
of the politics, Harry pats him on the back. We will probably stall for a
couple of years and only pay out fifty percent of the claims that havent
dropped out, then we will have finally put this Feeding Virus to rest once and
for all, Harry says. Oh what about Stan Weston he created the virus, Dale
asks. Well have to wait until everything settles down, then we will deal with
him and Skip. Alright are you ready, Harry opens the door to the pressroom.
Hundreds of reporters are packed into the room each scrambling to
ask the first question. General Applewood, General Applewod, can I ask just
one question, a female reporter asks. I am going to give my statement first
and then Ill answer questions, the general says. Harry Gibson just stands
back as General Applewood give the statement about the bomber on a test
mission and the accidental crash. Ok I am ready for your questions.
General, can you tell me why a bomber was carrying nuclear weapons of
any kind above a populated area, one young gentleman jumps up and asks.
Well sir when a proto-type is being tested we try to use everything as if the
plane was in combat, this gives us an idea on how the plane can perform.
All the young news reporter can do is sit down. General, since this was a
nuclear explosion what about the fallout, another reporter asks. General
sort of smiles, This was a sub-nuclear explosion, the fallout is a lot heavier
that the regular fallout so it stays with the confined area. So youre saying
the fallout will not go any further than Rock Hill? Yes, thats exactly want I
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am saying. Harry Gibson steps up and says, The Department of Defense
sends its deepest symphony to the families of Rock Hill, and we will work as
fast as we can to get the survivors some relief.
Several thousand miles away in London England a young mother
named Robin Belcher is giving birth to her first child, she is really nervous.
The nurses have been working with Robin for hours trying to get this delivery.
Ok Robin youre almost there, now one more big push. Robin takes her last
bit of energy and pushes; she has never felt pain like this before. I can see
the head, just one more push, on the count of three; one, two, three, the
doctor reaches in and pulls out a baby boy. He slaps the baby on his butt and
it starts to cry, Hes got a set of lungs, the doctor hands the baby to the
nurses so he can be cleaned up.
Ah, isnt he cute, the nurses say as they begin to clean him. The
boy is wrapped in a blue blanket and a white cap is placed on his head. When
the baby starts to open his eyes the nurse holding him seems to be terrified,
Oh my God, she quickly sets the baby down. Doctor you need to see this,
they pull the doctor back in the delivery room. He walks over to see an infant
with coal black eyes and abnormally long fingernails. My word, it looks like
the little chap looks like he does not have any pupils, the doctor says.
Whats wrong with him doctor, the nurses asks. I am not sure; it could just
be a temporary reaction from delivery or.some kind of virus.
The endor is it.

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