by Citroner, GW
“The state’s under military control?”
“Well, I don’t know if that’s the right word for it, Dan. Government at all levels sort of faded away as the crisis spread and people stayed home to take care of themselves and their families. Before long, the National Guard was all we had left. Even they were in disarray until General Manning arrived with his men. He took command and now also controls emergency services, food distribution, and the like.”
Dan asked earnestly “But it’s only been a couple of months since the epidemic started, how could it all come apart so fast?”
“Government is made up of people. When enough of those people drop everything and leave to save their own skins, well, you know how it goes. There was a job that needed to be done, and General Manning stepped up to the challenge. Since emergency services, hospital, and even law enforcement personnel just left their posts, he replaced them with military personnel and civilian volunteers that serve under his command.”
Lily wondered. “If things are under control here, where is everybody? The highway is empty except for official vehicles and any businesses we passed were shut down. Gas stations, rest stops, they’re all abandoned.”
“Like I said, young lady, General Manning has assumed responsibility for all state functions, and that includes ensuring that the contagion doesn’t spread and preventing attacks from the infected. He’s established safe zones where residents are protected and anyone who shows early signs of the disease can be quickly removed for medical treatment.”
“But there is no treatment,” said Ty carefully.
“That’s where you’re wrong. Those government scientists from out east where this thing started are working on something that can prevent or slow infection and maybe even reverse the process once it’s started.”
Dan’s jaw dropped. “Have they contacted the CDC about this?”
“I’m sorry, Dan. I thought you knew already, there’s no more government agencies left as far as we know. I guess too many officials got sick, killed, or left their posts. As far as I know, every state is on its own. Boise is now a sovereign state under the control of one General Manning.”
Ty shook his head sadly. “It makes sense, if there’s no federal authority then each state is going to have to figure itself out.”
“The General has been good for us. He’s maintaining control of the state and has men out looking for refugees. They also work nights using thermal imaging to hunt down the infected. Apparently, their body temperature is so high that they show up easily on infrared binoculars and riflescopes. When one is spotted a patrol is sent out to capture or subdue them.”
“This may sound stupid, but why did they pick a car lot to attract people and not a supermarket or truck stop?”
“That’s a good question, Lily. Those places are being used to attract people; there are troops stationed at many of them, but they’re instructed to make those businesses look deserted. Looting is an ongoing problem; it’s how they’re separating good people from troublemakers. A car lot doesn’t have much looters would be interested in, especially if there’s no gas to get the cars off the lot. Odds are I’ll attract folks like you, just looking for help or shelter.”
Dan stood up. “Thank you, Rich, but I think we should be getting back on our way. Is there anywhere we can gas up? I can trade for it.”
“Why don’t you stay a while? Boise is safe and you can get fed, and sleep in a real bed for the night. It would also help if you spoke with the authorities here and shared your experiences. It’s the main reason I’m here. Communications are down nationwide. Until service can be restored, information from folks passing through is invaluable.”
Dan suddenly felt nervous, but couldn’t figure out why. Something seemed a little off. “That sounds great, Rich, but we really should be on our way. Where did you say we could fuel up?”
“I didn’t. But I’ve got a pump that supplies our service garage, I can spare enough to make sure you make it to Boise with a little to spare.” The man’s face looked more shrewd than friendly.
Ty grew impatient. “That would be fine, but I think we’ll steer clear of the city and keep on our way. The girl’s grandmother will be expecting her and Dan’s anxious to see his family.”
Rich sighed. “I’m sorry, but I’ll have to insist. I was told to make sure anyone stopping here speaks with the authorities about what they know. It’s also a health issue, you all need to be checked for signs of infection and examined.”
Dan spoke firmly. “I think we’ll just head out Mr. Newsome. Thank you for your hospitality, but we don’t want to be delayed any longer than necessary.”
“I’m really sorry, but that won’t be possible.”
All three realized that something was very wrong.
Lily got up. “No, I want to go to my grandmother and Dan’s family is waiting for him. We’ll just get back on the road and be on our way. Guys, can we leave now, please.”
Ty looked at Lily. “Yup, it’s time to go. Dan forget the gas, we’ll figure it out.”
Rich pointed toward the entrance, where they could see uniformed men standing outside the wide glass doors.
“As you can see, you don’t really have a choice. I would have preferred that you went to Boise willingly. This location is under constant surveillance. If someone decides not to accept our hospitality, the local patrol is called to come and assist. “
“In other words, make us an offer that can’t be refused.”
They regretted leaving their weapons in the van, but it didn’t matter. The five men waiting outside outgunned them.
“Just step out slowly, with your hands in the air. They don’t want to hurt you, just escort you back to the city center and do what I said they would. Ask you some questions and have the doctors examine you. Who knows? You may like it here and decide to stay anyway. Besides, the odds are against anyone finding their family in this mess. Lily would also be safer here. Didn’t you say her parents had both passed?”
Lily was shaking. Dan held her hand. “Let’s do what the man says and see what happens. I’m sure we’ll be fine.”
“Please go now. If you take too long they’ll just come in to get you, and these men are a little high strung. You don’t want to risk upsetting them.”
They heard thunder, as the sound rolled over them, it started to pour.
“Ty, Lil, let’s go.”
Handcuffed, eyes examined, and temperatures taken, the men put them in a Humvee. Driven to the city’s downtown they got out at a small corner diner.
“Well it looks alright, so far” said Ty as he dug into his burger and fries.
Dan agreed. “Sure, the chow’s good, but being chained up makes it tough to get up and use the facilities.”
Lily stared at her leg. “Having an ankle cuffed to the chair is a bit inconvenient.” She looked around at the five or six other people calmly eating at other tables “and a little embarrassing.”
Seated by a window, they were shocked to see so many people on the street. They thought the crisis had convinced most it was much safer to stay indoors. However, no one was just strolling. They were all moving with a purpose, all heading somewhere. Many were obviously military personnel, wearing fatigues and carrying weapons.
After finishing the meal, they were released and taken for another ride. Dan noticed the soldier who drove was gray haired, wore sergeant’s stripes on his sleeve, and the distinctive peaked cap of a US Marine.
“May I ask where we’re headed gunny?”
“I thought you carried yourself like a vet, son.” The soldier looked at him from the rear view mirror as he drove. “I’m Sergeant Hartman. Where and when did you serve?”
“I was a marine with the Second battalion, Eighth Marines from ’05 to ’09. I took part in the Al Asad deployment. What’s a Marine doing with Guard troops?”
“We’re all a long way from home nowadays. I was with Second Battalion, Weapons Company, out of Camp Lejeune when the shit hit the fan
. Most men deserted and the few hard chargers left looked for any functioning military unit they could find to call home. I joined General Manning in Virginia.”
He looked over his shoulder again. “To answer your other question, you’re heading to a debriefing. Any information you have could help the war effort.”
Lily blurted out, “What war?”
“Pick one. The war against those ugly bastards infected with the virus, the war to restore the United States or the one we’re fighting against looters. We have a big job ahead of us”
Ty’s asked, “I was told there’s an effort underway to treat the infected, not kill them all.”
“In some cases, the medical boys can help. But most times the infected are too far gone and too goddamn dangerous.”
“So they’re being exterminated.”
“That’s right, son. Healthy people need protection. I don’t think there are many of us left.”
They became increasingly unsure of themselves as he explained the situation. While being kidnapped was unnerving, these people seemed to have a plan. It was harsh, but sounded reasonable.
Dan was indignant. “Why didn’t anybody explain this to us before? Why were we handcuffed and treated like prisoners?”
“We had to wait long enough to be sure. We restrained you to protect us in case any of you started showing signs. There’s another health check scheduled before you speak with anybody official, but temperature and blood pressure readings tell us you three are alright.”
Lily wondered. “What would have happened if one of us showed signs?”
“Whoever has advanced symptoms of infection like bloody eyes or jagged skin is killed as quickly and painlessly as possible. However, if detected in its earliest stages, our docs can help. There’s a lot of work to do yet, but they’ve made real progress.”
Seven
City Hall was impressive. The storm had finally ended and shafts of sunlight broke through the remaining clouds, bathing the sprawling building in a golden glow.
Dan, Ty, and Lily weren’t enjoying the improved weather. They were taken separately into different offices and questioned for every detail they could recall, not only of their journey, but anything they could remember from the weeks leading up to the crisis. The interviewers were brusque, but kind. Taken to a nearby hospital for medical tests, they were finally provided dinner in the cafeteria.
“How was it, Dan?”
“There was lots of poking and prodding, especially poking. I think they took a pint of blood by the end of it.”
“Same here, have you seen Lily?”
“I asked one of the docs and was told we’d probably see her tomorrow.”
They got their food and sat down. They ate and watched the day slowly fade into night.
“You gentleman mind if I join you?” It was Hartman.
“Good to see you, sergeant.” Dan scooted his chair over a bit to make room him.
“Good to see both of you! I assume the debriefing and medical exam went smoothly?”
“It was exhausting, but we got through OK,” Ty replied. “When can we get Lilly and get back on the road?”
“That’s why I’m here. The staff want to hold Lilly at the hospital for a bit longer. She’s been through a lot and they’d like to keep her under observation for a while.”
“Wait, what?” Dan dropped his fork. “Hold her for how long?”
“Now, don’t get upset. The docs are doing right by her, and I heard about what happened with her mom. That’s a nasty shock – physically and emotionally for a teenaged girl; and she’s been in close proximity to the virus. If you’re really concerned about her welfare, you’ll understand.”
Ty agreed. “Dan, maybe he’s right.”
“Damn straight I’m right. Give the docs a chance to do their job and she’ll be fine.”
“What about my wife and kid? They’re waiting for me and I haven’t been able to contact them.”
“I can help relieve you of some worries on that count. We have word from long-range patrols that the Southeast is breaking up into different ‘protectorates.’ They’re either under military control, like us or a by a coalition of militias and law enforcement. Your family, if they survived the first weeks of the epidemic, shouldn’t be in any immediate danger. Which brings me to the other reason I’m here, I understand you’re both trained firefighters and paramedics, and Dan has extensive military training. I’d like you to help us out.”
Hartman folded his hands on the table. “While your friend Lily’s being cared for, we could really use your help.”
Ty didn’t mind. “That sounds fine, we’d be happy to help out!” Under the table, Dan hit his leg.
“Great! You can both bunk down at the fire station starting tonight. I’ll speak with the fire chief and ask him to give you the night off to build up your strength.”
Hartman rose from his chair and left. As soon as he was out of earshot, Dan asked, “What the hell was that all about?”
Ty explained carefully. “Have you been paying attention, Dan? Do you honestly think he was giving us a choice? We can pretend to agree with everything, and let them relax. If they think we’re not going along with the plan, I’ve got a feeling the situation could go south fast.”
“Sure, I guess you’re right. But I don’t know if we can believe anything he said.”
“Basically, we’ve been shanghaied. All we have to do is stay sharp and be ready to jump ship when we can. Lily is stuck in the hospital and we’ll be in and out of here dropping off patients. We may get a chance to speak with her, warn her to be ready to run. We won’t leave her here.”
“No, we can’t, she’s a sweet kid. We’ve been through a lot together and we gave our word to help her.” Dan grabbed his tray and wearily stood up. “Let’s get to the station, I’m ready to drop.”
As promised, the two men got a full night’s rest. The relatively familiar surroundings lulling both men into a deep dreamless sleep. They woke early and after a quick breakfast, the Fire Chief sat them down to introduce himself and explain the situation.
“I’m Fire Chief William Craddoc. Including both of you, there are sixteen men divided into two twelve hour ‘rattle watches.’ Do you know what that is?”
Dan answered. “It had something to do with firemen patrolling the streets in New York before they had a regular police department.”
“That’s right. We’re short handed for every city function and everyone pulls double duty. We lost our cops when the trouble started and what’s left of the fire department is stepping in to fill the gap. Phone service is dead and the radios have limited range, so each team patrols the city in twos or threes by ambulance or fire truck. If you find trouble you can’t handle on your own, use the radio to call in help.”
“Eight is our shift change. You two join the rest taking over from the last night’s crew.”
Ty complained “But we don’t know the city, how are we even going to find our way back?”
“Thankfully, the satellites still work and each vehicle has a GPS. You’ll know exactly where you are to call in help, and how to get where you’re sent. Getting back is as easy as pressing ‘home’ on the screen.”
“What area are we covering?” Dan asked.
“All of it, which isn’t much since so many have run off, died or both. We’re the only firehouse still open for business. However, Guard troops are picking up some of the slack.” He folded his hands together. “Honestly, just do your best, we’re making it up as we go along.”
“Will we be armed against attack by the infected?”
“Firearms are in short supply, but we do have Tasers and loads of cartridges for them – don’t feel bad about it, wait until you see what a little jolt does to one of them.”
They were out by the airport as they neared the end of their shift and the sun was going down. The idea was to grab the highway and cut straight to the station at about seven thirty to make the eight o’clock shift change.
> “Hasn’t been a bad day so far, buddy.”
Dan agreed. “I was anticipating worse, but they really seem to have this city buttoned up.”
The most dramatic event of the day had been rescuing the city’s only telephone lineman who had fallen off a pole. They treated his head injury and splinted his leg before dropping him off at the emergency room. The day had been sunny, which kept the infected hiding in the shadows to avoid burning their colorless skins. Therefore, there were no attacks.
Near an underpass, they found a personnel carrier blocking their way.
“Stop here Ty, I’ll get out and ask them to let us through.” Stepping out, Dan sensed something was wrong. He shouted toward the truck. “Hey guys! We just need to get through so we can make it back, how about it?” There was no response from the men inside. Walking closer he felt the ground stick underfoot, like stepping on wet paint. Checking the bottom of his shoe, he saw a thick, clear substance, like what dripped from the mouths of infected people. He headed back and locked the door behind him. “What’s a matter, Dan? I wanna get back, I’m starving.”
“Look at my shoe, that’s slime from an infected. Drive up to the side of the truck. I want to take a closer look.”
“Alright, here we go.” A body lay torn and partially dismembered on the broad sloping front of the eight-wheeled truck. “Dan, I think we should back out of here.” Weird, chirping howls sounded all around them. Then out of the deepening twilight shadows, they came. Four-legged, hairless, with wide mouths, lumpy heads, and rat like tails. Yet Ty found them oddly familiar. “I think those are infected dogs. That’s not supposed to happen!”