It started as a few people sick here and there, a brand new common cold.
"Breaking News Alert: New virus with cold like Symptoms Spreading
Health officials are investigating a new virus spreading through the nation, exhibiting symptoms similar to the common cold. Limited information available but be sure to take necessary precautions and monitor your health closely. Stay vigilant, wash hands frequently, and heed health advisories. More updates to follow. "
"Breaking News Alert: The virus resembling a common cold but with flu-like symptoms is now spreading rapidly across the nation. Citizens are urged to consult their doctors for symptoms similar to flu. Masks are cautiously advised as virus proves more contagious than initially believed. As well as maintaining hygiene. Stay informed and stay safe. We'll continue to keep you updated."
"Urgent Update: Tragic toll rises as 6 lives lost to spreading virus. Heightened precautions are now in effect: Maintain 6ft distance from others, masks now mandatory. Vigilance is urged with frequent handwashing & sanitizer. Mild symptoms? Please seek immediate medical attention. Those with severe symptoms? Proceed directly to your local Emergency Room. Stay cautious, stay safe. We'll keep you updated once we learn more."
"Urgent news Alert: Rising death toll is slowly bringing our nation to a halt. People are being asked to avoid any large gatherings of any kind. Major events, concerts and sporting events have been postponed. Masks are now heavily mandated. As well as maintaining a 6ft distance apart from others. Those confirmed with a mild case of the virus are being asked to Quarantine at home for 14 days. The CDC and WHO are closely monitoring the situation and planning accordingly. Please stay alert and prioritize safety. As always we'll keep you updated as we learn more."
At first it wasn't bad, a couple weeks vacation, Hell we even got paid for it. Eventually lab's started prioritizing the vaccine efforts, after a few months they announced what many were calling a half ass solution. As the vaccine officially rolled out we thought things were finally going to get better. Work, school, friends and family.
Bull shit.
Dante sat in his dimly lit office, his laptop open before him, casting an eerie glow across the room. The familiar sight of his nephew Nero appeared on the screen, his face reflecting the exhaustion of endless Zoom calls and virtual classes.
"Hey, old man," Nero greeted, his voice heavy with fatigue. "Thanks for hopping on. This whole virtual graduation thing is… well, it's something else."
Dante chuckled, his trademark smirk appearing even through the grainy webcam feed. "Ah, the joys of modern technology. Back in my day, we just had to worry about tripping during the ceremony."
Nero laughed, a tired but genuine sound. "Yeah, at least that would've been more exciting than staring at a screen for hours on end."
As they exchanged anecdotes about their respective graduation experiences, a sudden interruption pierced through their conversation. The sound of breaking news alerts echoed from Dante's television, drawing his attention away from the conversation with his nephew.
"Hey, hold on a sec, Nero," Dante said, his brows furrowing as he turned his gaze towards the TV screen.
The news anchor's urgent voice filled the room, capturing Dante's full attention. "Reports from various parts of the world are flooding in, detailing a terrifying epidemic that has left authorities baffled. Witnesses describe horrifying scenes of individuals exhibiting erratic behavior, resembling something out of a horror movie.
Eyewitnesses report individuals exhibiting symptoms of extreme aggression, coupled with a loss of cognitive function. These afflicted individuals, driven by an insatiable hunger for human flesh, have been seen attacking innocent bystanders without warning. Governments worldwide are urging citizens to remain indoors and avoid contact with anyone displaying unusual behavior."
"Kid go get your dad."
Nero's eyes widened with alarm at the severity of the news. " Dante, what's happening?" he asked, his voice tense with concern.
Dante's expression hardened as he quickly assessed the situation. "Nero, listen to me carefully. Pack a bag with essentials, tell Vergil to do the same, and get to the office. I'll meet you."
Nero nodded, his heart racing with adrenaline. "Got it."
Dante ended the call with Nero and quickly dialed Vergil's number, his mind racing with thoughts of what could be causing such chaos. As he waited for Vergil to pick up, he scanned the news updates scrolling across the screen, each report painting a more grim picture than the last.
Finally, Vergil answered, his voice tense. "Dante?"
"There's an outbreak," Dante replied bluntly. "We need to gear up, meet me here at the office."
There was a brief pause before Vergil responded, his tone grave. "Understood. I'll be there."
Dante hung up the phone, his mind already racing through potential scenarios and strategies. He swiftly moved around his office, gathering his guns and supplies.
As he prepared, his thoughts drifted to the safety of his family and friends. He hoped Lady and Trish were safe from whatever this was.
Dante's heart raced as he finished gathering his supplies. Just as he was about to head out, he heard a knock at the door. With a sense of relief and caution , he hurried to answer it.
Opening the door, he was greeted by the familiar faces of Lady and Trish.
"Speak of the devil"
"Dante, what's going on?" Lady asked, her voice edged with worry.
Trish's eyes scanned the room, taking in the sight of Dante's preparations. "Is it true what they're saying on the news?"
Dante nodded grimly, ushering them inside. "Yeah, it seems like some kind of epidemic. People are turning violent, attacking each other. We need to stick together and figure out what's going on."
Lady and Trish exchanged a glance before nodding in agreement. "We're with you."
———————————————————————
this is a remake/ reimagined version of a story I published in 2012. I hope you enjoy it and please provide feedback and advice. I appreciate it- Barbie Love