STATUS REPORT: MORE DATA NEEDED FOR ANALYSIS OF IMFECTED INDIVIDUALS
EXPANDING CIVILIAN SEARCHES FOR MORE RURAL AREAS
CURRENTLY HOUSING A FEW CIVILIANS
BROADCASTING MESSAGES TO BRING IN MORE PEOPLE
SEARCH PARTIES ALSO DO SUPPLY RUNS TO ENSURE WE CAN ACCOMIDATE MORE PEOPLE
"So, Ash.. what say you to a trial run?"
"Huh?"
"It's simple really. We give you a week with us. In that time we can see what you do. If you can hold your own, see the amount of resources you consume, etcetera. We aren't asking you to jump into hordes for us, you're just a kid. But maybe do some foraging, hunting if possible. Show your strengths. Actions speak louder than words, don't they?"
"Yes, you're right!"
"Good. Then the trial run begins now. You can learn the layout of this place on your own time. For now, everyone can try and rest. It's late. Ash, you'll have to either share a room with someone, or sleep somewhere else. We're already lacking in rooms."
"Yes- got it! I promise I won't let you down."
"Aight lil guy, if ya' want ta you can room with me. I got space, plus you seem like a cool kid."
"Uh- sure okay!"
"Then that's settled. Everyone, get some rest. This meeting is over."
With that, everyone begins going their separate ways. The southern man beckoning Ash over. Together the two head to a room on the right side of the building. Inside there's a mattress on the floor, with some ragged looking posters sprawled on the wall. A picture hang on a wall in a cracked frame, portraying the man in his younger days beside some animals at a Ranch.
"Well, ya' can make yerself comfortable here I reckon, least 'til we get things more properly sorted. Also- I outta introduce myself. Names Sylvester Wayne, but ya can just call me Wayne. 'S what my Paw and Maw did anyhoo."
"Alright mister Wayne! I said my name before, but I guess I should give you my full name. Ashton Myers!"
"So, what's yer story kid? From what I can tell you ain't come here with anyone."
"Well- uhm, I never really had many people. I didn't know my parents. I grew up in an orphanage, but lost track of the other kids there when this mess began. But hey, I'm sure they're okay!"
He gives a smile. Whether he's lying to himself, or trying to remain optimistic is anyone's guess.
"Hey- now that's what I'm talkin' about man! Never give up hope, that's what I'm doin' right now. Grew up with my paw and maw on our family ranch back in Arkansas. Was takin' care of the cattle and horses since I've been walkin'."
"Oh, cool! So you're also good with animals. But you said Arkansas? That's like- pretty far from here right? Why are you in North Dakota?"
"Well, my paw reckoned I could get better at takin' care of animals if I got myself an education. So he done sent me over here to the college in this place. It's how I met all those people you were seein' just those few minutes ago."
"So I'm guessing you all knew eachother before everything happened?"
"Well, sorta. I saw most of them passing by. Colt was mighty quiet in school, and I didn't speak with Kara much. Lucas was off the radar, and Bonnie was someone you wanted to avoid I'll say! Axel though, that big man, he was my roommate. He's a fine man he is. Got smarts and strength ya' know? He was always doing some type o' science experiments in the dorm he was. But hey, he's probably one of my best buds he is now! Big fan of the baseball. I played catch with my paw so we had that common interest we did! Oh but look at me rambling. What about you yungin? You had some good friends?"
"Oh- yeah I did! This kid, Leo, he was cool! He got me into Soccer. We'd sneak out and head to this empty field to play from time to time, and I really liked it! Plus he helped me get into the Boyscouts. It's why I'm so good with foraging and stuff!"
"Aight, aight."
The two continue talking back and forth, having a nice time retelling past stories of a world they once knew.
"Oop, kid. Can I tell ya' somethin' quickly?"
"Sure. What's up?"
"Lucas, that scrawny lookin' fella. I'd keep my distance from him, ya' heard? He looks unassuming, but I know his type. He only cares for himself. A selfish one he is. Just ignore 'em if he tries to annoy you, yeah? Everyone's doin' that now and it's been working so far."
"Uhm- okay then. Whatever you say mister Wayne!"
"Yeah- though we should rest now. Why it's almost 2 AM it is. Here-"
He moves to a corner, pulling a blanket out.
"I'm not giving up my bed kid, nothin' personal. You can use this though. Grounds carpeted so it shouldn't be too bad yeah?"
With that, the man lie down, leaving Ash to his thoughts.
"..The people here are great! Mostly. It's been a whiles since I've been able to talk like that.. forget about everything for a little. If I prove my worth, than I could even stay! I can make some friends, and maybe feel safe!"
"..Hopefully."