Chapter 01: Zombie Eradication Squad (ZES)

One day, I received a letter from the Arm Department of the Zombie Eradication Squad (ZES). I was at home, doing nothing special after returning from a recent survival mission. The letter stated, "Jim, we are offering you a position in our arm service. There is a city named Shadowfall, and your services are required there either as an individual or as a team leader if you have a team with you. Your job will be straightforward: you will clean the city of Shadowfall of zombies. Remember, Shadowfall is a central hub of zombie activity and is located far from any public areas. Given your extensive experience in combating zombies, we are offering you a handsome package for your service."

I read the letter and noted the sender's name. It was Lieutenant Jackson, the director of ZES. I folded the letter and placed it on the table, my mind drifting back to memories of working at the research center. That was where the virus first spread, forcing us to flee for our lives. I recalled how difficult it was to escape from that place. I remembered Sarah and Doctor Will, who I met on my first mission. Then, during our second mission, we encountered Emily and Mother Miranda. I wished to see them again, but rejoining the mission required careful consideration. After some thought, I decided to call Sarah.

Sarah answered the phone herself. “Jim, it’s good to hear from you. What’s going on?” Her voice was warm, and I could sense her genuine interest.

“I received a letter from the Arm Department,” I began, getting straight to the point. “They’re requesting our services for a city called Shadowfall.”

Sarah’s tone shifted as she processed the information. “Are they asking for you to go alone, or do they want a team?” she inquired, her voice tinged with curiosity.

“There’s an option for both,” I replied. “I can either go by myself or take the team along with me.”

Sarah’s interest was piqued. “So, they’re aware of our past missions?” she asked, her tone reflecting a mix of surprise and intrigue.

“Yes, the letter mentioned that they are familiar with our previous work,” I confirmed. “It seems they value our experience.”

“What’s your plan then?” Sarah asked, sounding genuinely interested in my decision.

“I haven’t made up my mind yet,” I admitted. “I wanted to get your thoughts on this before making a final decision.”

Sarah’s response was filled with confidence. “This is a great opportunity. Given our experience, I’m confident we can handle the job with ease. We’ve faced challenging situations before and come out stronger.”

I nodded, remembering the difficulties we had faced in our earlier missions. “Do you remember our last mission? It was incredibly tough to escape from that zombie-infested area,” I said, hoping to draw parallels between our past experiences and the current situation.

“That mission was definitely a surprise for us,” Sarah replied energetically. “It was our first big challenge, but this one seems different from anything we’ve faced before. The circumstances might be unique, but I believe we’re well-prepared.”

“The letter mentioned a handsome package for our services,” I said, trying to gauge Sarah’s reaction to the potential rewards.

Sarah’s enthusiasm was palpable. “That’s expected for a mission of this scale. If the stakes are high, the rewards should be as well. It sounds like a significant opportunity for us.”

I shifted the conversation to the rest of our team. “What about Doctor Will? Do you think he’ll be ready for another mission?”

“Doctor Will has been eager for another chance to tackle zombies,” Sarah said with a laugh. “He’s been looking forward to getting back into action. I’m sure he’ll be up for it.”

“And what about Emily and Mother Miranda?” I asked, considering the possibility of reuniting with them.

“I haven’t been in touch with them recently, so I don’t have current contact details,” Sarah said thoughtfully. “However, I’m hopeful that once we get to Shadowfall, we’ll be able to reach out to them and see if they can join us.”

“Alright, I’ll take all of this into consideration and let you know my final decision soon,” I said, feeling a sense of resolve forming within me.

“Okay, I look forward to hearing from you,” Sarah replied. “Goodbye for now.”

“Goodbye, Sarah,” I said, ending the call.

As I sat back, reflecting on the conversation, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. Sarah’s confidence and enthusiasm were encouraging, and the prospect of reuniting with Doctor Will, Emily, and Mother Miranda made the mission even more appealing. Shadowfall was a significant challenge, but with a capable team by my side, I felt ready to tackle whatever awaited us.

In the following days, I reached out to my family and friends to discuss the mission and gather their opinions. Their primary concern was my safety. They strongly advised against returning to such a dangerous situation. Despite their concerns, when I assured them that this mission was not as perilous as the previous two, they reluctantly agreed to support my decision to proceed. Their support, though hesitant, was comforting and helped solidify my resolve.

I then contacted Sarah to inform her of my decision. She responded with unexpected news that her father, Dr. Marcus, was ready to join us for the mission. I was taken aback by this development. Given that Dr. Marcus had faced significant challenges in the previous missions, I hadn’t anticipated him showing interest in participating again.

“He is eager to join us and wants to reunite with the team, just as we worked together before,” Sarah informed me.

I was curious about Dr. Marcus’s expectations. “Does he want the entire team from our last missions to be together for this one?” I asked Sarah.

Sarah confirmed, “He mentioned that since this mission is larger and more complex than the previous two, it would be beneficial for us to have our full team. He believes that having all our trusted colleagues together will enhance our chances of success.”

Prior to this conversation with Sarah, I had a brief discussion with Dr. Will. Sarah’s assessment was accurate—Dr. Will was indeed missing the fieldwork. He shared that he was currently teaching, but it wasn’t fulfilling for him as it lacked the excitement and challenge of active missions. His longing to return to the field was evident, and he expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining the team.

After confirming the interest and availability of my team members, I reached out to Lieutenant Jackson to update him. I made the call to his office, and he answered promptly. I briefed him on the composition of my team and our intentions.

Lieutenant Jackson initially hesitated when I mentioned that our team consisted of four members. He had originally expected a five-person team. I explained that although our team would start with four members, the remaining team members—Captain Lee, Emily, and Mother Miranda—would join us in Shadowfall City. This reassured him, and he agreed to the arrangement.

Jackson’s approval was a relief. With his consent, I felt a renewed sense of confidence and readiness. The prospect of reuniting with familiar and skilled team members, along with the support of Dr. Marcus, invigorated my determination to undertake the mission. As I prepared for the journey to Shadowfall, I knew that despite the challenges ahead, our combined expertise and camaraderie would be our greatest assets.

I was eagerly awaiting a response from Lieutenant Jackson. Every day felt longer as I hoped for some communication. Then, one day, the postman delivered a parcel along with a letter. Inside the parcel were four tickets to Stormwatch City. The letter contained instructions for us to join the head office of the Zombie Eradication Squad (ZES) within a week, which was located in Stormwatch City.

I immediately called Sarah and Dr. Will to share the news and instructed them to come to my home. It wasn't long before Sarah, her father Dr. Marcus, and Dr. Will arrived, each carrying their bags and ready for the journey. We exchanged farewells with our families, filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety, and set off for Stormwatch City.

The journey to Stormwatch City was uneventful, giving us time to mentally prepare for what lay ahead. Upon arrival, we made our way to the expansive headquarters of the ZES. The size of the complex was staggering; it seemed to stretch on endlessly, a testament to the vast operations conducted within.

As we approached the main gate, the grandeur of the ZES headquarters became even more apparent. The entrance was flanked by towering statues of heroic figures from past missions, immortalized in mid-action poses. The architecture was a blend of modern design and fortified structures, indicating both technological advancement and a readiness for defense.

Once inside, we began our search for Lieutenant Jackson’s office. The head office was a labyrinth of corridors and rooms, each bustling with activity. We saw groups of soldiers and researchers moving purposefully, their expressions serious and focused. The air was filled with a sense of urgency and determination.

We wandered through numerous hallways, each leading to different departments. The walls were adorned with screens displaying real-time data on zombie outbreaks, mission statuses, and other critical information. It was clear that this facility was the nerve center of the ZES's operations.

We soon found ourselves in an open area that served as a car parking lot. Vehicles of all kinds were parked there, from armored trucks to sleek, high-speed cars, all ready for deployment. The area was abuzz with mechanics and engineers working on the vehicles, ensuring they were in peak condition for any mission.

We continued our search, moving through various sections of the headquarters. One area resembled a small forest, with tall trees and lush greenery. This section was designed to simulate natural environments, likely used for training exercises. The sound of trainers shouting instructions and recruits responding echoed through the area, adding to the sense of a living, breathing organism that was the ZES headquarters.

After wandering through several more corridors, we finally arrived at Lieutenant Jackson’s office. The door was marked with his name and title, a simple yet authoritative sign. We knocked and were promptly invited in.

Lieutenant Jackson greeted us warmly, a broad smile on his face. “Welcome, team,” he said, shaking our hands firmly. “It’s good to see you all.”

He meticulously checked our documents to ensure everything was in order. Once satisfied, he gave us a brief overview of what to expect in the coming days. “You’ll find your stay here both challenging and rewarding,” he said. “Our facilities are designed to support you in every way possible.”

He then guided us to our hostel rooms, located in a separate wing of the headquarters. The hostel was well-equipped, with comfortable beds, a common area for relaxation, and various amenities to make our stay pleasant. Each room was furnished with a desk, a small wardrobe, and a private bathroom. The attention to detail was evident, providing both comfort and functionality.

After settling into our rooms, we took a moment to appreciate the surroundings. The view from the windows revealed a sprawling training ground, with various obstacle courses and shooting ranges. In the distance, we could see groups of recruits undergoing rigorous training exercises, their dedication and discipline apparent even from afar.

The headquarters also had a state-of-the-art medical facility, a crucial aspect of the ZES operations. The facility was staffed with skilled doctors and nurses, ready to handle any medical emergencies. It was reassuring to know that medical help was readily available, given the risks involved in our missions.

There was also a research and development wing, where scientists and engineers worked on new technologies and strategies to combat the zombie threat. The R&D wing was a hive of activity, with teams brainstorming, experimenting, and testing new ideas. The innovation and creativity on display were inspiring, showing that the fight against zombies was not just about brute force but also about intelligence and ingenuity.

As we explored further, we came across a large dining hall, where meals were served at regular intervals. The hall was filled with the aroma of delicious food, and the sight of soldiers and staff sharing meals together added a sense of camaraderie and community.

We also discovered a recreation area, complete with a gym, a swimming pool, and even a small cinema. The ZES had clearly thought of everything, ensuring that their personnel could stay fit, relaxed, and entertained during their downtime. This balance between work and relaxation was crucial, given the high-stress nature of our work.

After a thorough exploration of the headquarters, we returned to our rooms, feeling a mix of exhaustion and excitement. The scale and sophistication of the ZES operations were impressive, and it was clear that we were part of a well-organized and dedicated organization.

As I lay on my bed that night, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. The mission ahead was daunting, but with a capable team and the extensive resources of the ZES behind us, I felt more confident than ever. The journey to Shadowfall was about to begin, and I knew that we were ready to face whatever challenges awaited us.

The day following our arrival at the ZES headquarters, we gathered in the auditorium for our first class. I had anticipated meeting other trainers and teams, but to my great surprise, it was just our group—myself, Jim, along with Sarah, Dr. Will, and Dr. Marcus. The room was spacious and well-equipped, with large screens at the front and comfortable seating arranged in rows. It felt both professional and slightly intimidating, underscoring the seriousness of our mission.

We didn’t have to wait long before Lieutenant Jackson joined us. He walked in with a purposeful stride, his presence commanding respect. After exchanging greetings, he began the session by introducing himself more formally. Lieutenant Jackson shared his extensive background in the military, recounting his years of service and the numerous missions he had led. His experience was vast, and it was clear that he was someone who had seen and done a lot in his career.

“I know about your successful missions,” he said, acknowledging our past efforts. “However, while your missions were indeed successful, they were carried out more by accident and sheer determination than by formal training. Now, it's time for you to receive proper education and training to handle these situations more effectively.”

Lieutenant Jackson paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. “Let’s start with some foundational knowledge. The term ‘zombies’ actually originates from the word ‘zoom.’ This is used in the context of mind trapping. Zombies are not humans, but rather animals and other creatures that have undergone a transformation, mixing with human society.”

This was new information for us, and it was intriguing to learn the origin of the term. Lieutenant Jackson continued, “Although these creatures do not usually come into public areas, there is always a risk that they might attack public property given the right circumstances. Hence, our vigilance is paramount.”

He then showed us a series of images on the large screens, depicting various forms of zombies. The pictures were both fascinating and unsettling. Some zombies had retained animalistic features, while others looked eerily human, blending seamlessly into society.

“Shadowfall City,” Lieutenant Jackson explained, “is a divided place. Here, humans and zombies coexist in a tenuous balance. Your primary task is to monitor their movements without entering their territories directly. Observe, report, and intervene only when necessary. Our goal is to push them out from our land and ensure they do not pose a threat to public safety.”

The lieutenant's explanation was thorough, and his insights into the behavior and characteristics of zombies were enlightening. He emphasized the importance of understanding our adversaries—not just physically, but psychologically as well. He detailed how these creatures could mimic human behavior, making them difficult to identify without close observation.

We were shown more visual aids, including maps of Shadowfall City, highlighting key areas where zombie activity was most prevalent. Lieutenant Jackson pointed out the boundaries that we were not to cross and the zones where our surveillance would be most critical.

“Our strategy,” he continued, “is based on containment and control. By closely monitoring these creatures and their interactions, we can prevent potential outbreaks and safeguard human populations. Your role is crucial in this effort. Each of you brings unique skills and experiences to the table, and together, we will form an effective unit against this threat.”

Lieutenant Jackson paused again, allowing us to absorb the wealth of information he had shared. He then opened the floor for questions.

Sarah was the first to speak. “Lieutenant, could you elaborate on how we should differentiate between humans and zombies in a place like Shadowfall City?”

“Excellent question, Sarah,” he responded. “While zombies can mimic human behavior, there are subtle differences. They may have unusual physical traits, such as abnormal eye color, erratic movements, or even behavioral patterns that don’t align with typical human interactions. Our training will include detailed sessions on these indicators to sharpen your observational skills.”

Dr. Will was next. “Lieutenant, you mentioned that zombies have animal origins. How does this affect their behavior compared to typical human behavior?”

“Another great question, Dr. Will,” Jackson replied. “Their animal origins often make them more instinct-driven. They may react aggressively to perceived threats or changes in their environment. Understanding these instincts can help you predict their actions and develop effective strategies to counter them.”

Dr. Marcus raised a concern about the potential risks. “What measures are in place to protect us during surveillance?”

Lieutenant Jackson assured us, “You will be equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance technology and protective gear. We will also have rapid response teams on standby to assist if you encounter any immediate danger. Your safety is our top priority.”

I had a question about our broader objectives. “Lieutenant, beyond surveillance and containment, are there any plans to find a permanent solution to the zombie problem?”

Jackson nodded. “Indeed, Jim. Our long-term goal is to eradicate the threat entirely. Our research and development teams are working on solutions, including potential cures and more effective containment strategies. Your data and observations will be crucial in advancing these efforts.”

The session continued with more questions and detailed answers, each exchange building our understanding and readiness. Lieutenant Jackson’s depth of knowledge and his ability to convey complex information clearly were impressive. By the end of the class, we felt more informed and better prepared for the challenges ahead.

The first class was enlightening, providing us with a solid foundation for the work we were about to undertake. As we left the auditorium, the gravity of our mission weighed on us, but so did a sense of purpose and determination. We knew that the path ahead would be difficult, but with the right training and teamwork, we were ready to face it head-on.

The next class began with a continuation of the question-and-answer session from the previous day. We were eager to delve deeper into the specifics of our mission, and Lieutenant Jackson was ready to provide us with the information we needed.

“How will we fight them?” I asked Lieutenant Jackson, seeking clarity on the tactics we should employ.

“You can use both light and heavy weapons,” Jackson replied. “The choice will depend on the current situation you face. Sometimes, a lighter, more precise approach is needed to avoid collateral damage, while at other times, heavier firepower might be necessary to deal with a larger threat.”

His answer made sense, but I had a follow-up question. “I meant, is there any political situation we need to be aware of?”

Jackson nodded, understanding my concern. “You will encounter local police and various other forces. If your question pertains to the politics of dealing with zombies, then yes, they can engage in political maneuvers with you. They are known to negotiate and make deals when it suits their interests.”

Dr. Marcus, always cautious, raised an important point. “How much can we trust them?”

Lieutenant Jackson's expression grew serious. “Only as far as it serves our immediate goals. They have a very selfish record. Trust them just enough to achieve your objective, but never let your guard down.”

Sarah, curious about the unique aspects of these zombies, asked, “You mentioned they are more powerful here. What makes them unique?”

Lieutenant Jackson elaborated, “As I mentioned before, the city of Shadowfall is uniquely situated. Both humans and zombies have strong footholds within the city. This situation gives the zombies certain advantages. They can change their faces and bodies, blending into human society effortlessly. Moreover, they have the ability to hide themselves in the air, almost becoming invisible.”

This revelation was startling. The idea that zombies could disguise themselves so thoroughly added a new layer of complexity to our mission.

Lieutenant Jackson continued, “Additionally, these zombies have a particular interest in human women. They often play games with them in hotels and clubs, using their shape-shifting abilities to lure them in.”

Dr. Marcus, ever the strategist, asked, “Does that mean we can use women to trap them?”

Jackson nodded, though his expression showed a hint of reluctance. “Police forces have often used women in their operations. They have been able to kill many zombies using this method. However, it’s a dangerous tactic and not one to be taken lightly. The safety of our operatives is always our top priority.”

The room fell silent for a moment as we digested this information. The notion of using women as bait was troubling, but it underscored the ruthlessness required to combat such a deceptive and dangerous enemy.

I had another question. “Are there any particular areas within Shadowfall where these zombies are more active?”

“Yes,” Jackson replied. “There are hotspots where zombie activity is more concentrated. These include abandoned industrial areas, certain underground clubs, and some of the older, less populated districts. We have detailed maps and intelligence reports that will guide you in identifying these zones.”

Sarah, still processing the earlier information, asked, “How do we handle interactions with the local human population, especially if they are unaware of the zombie presence?”

Jackson's response was measured. “It’s crucial to maintain a low profile. The local population might not be aware of the full extent of the zombie threat, and causing a panic would be counterproductive. Use discretion and communicate only with trusted contacts within the police and other official agencies.”

Dr. Will, always the scientist, had a question about the nature of the zombies. “Lieutenant, do we know how these creatures came to be? Is there any ongoing research into their origins?”

Jackson nodded. “There is ongoing research, both within our organization and in collaboration with other scientific bodies. The current understanding is that these creatures were originally animals that somehow mutated, acquiring the ability to shape-shift and blend into human society. The exact mechanism of this transformation is still under investigation.”

Dr. Marcus inquired further, “Are there any known weaknesses or vulnerabilities that we can exploit?”

“Like all creatures, they have weaknesses,” Jackson confirmed. “While they are resilient and can regenerate quickly, they are vulnerable to certain chemical compounds and specific types of energy weapons. We will provide you with the necessary tools and knowledge to exploit these weaknesses effectively.”

I had a question about our support and backup. “In case of an emergency, what kind of support can we expect from the ZES headquarters?”

Jackson reassured us, “You will have access to rapid response teams and aerial support. We have drones and other surveillance equipment that can be deployed quickly. Your communication devices will be linked directly to our command center, ensuring that help is always just a call away.”

Sarah, still concerned about the potential for encounters with zombies disguised as humans, asked, “How can we verify the identity of someone we suspect to be a zombie?”

Jackson explained, “There are several methods. One of the most reliable is a biochemical test that can detect the unique markers present in zombies. We’ll provide you with portable testing kits. Additionally, behavioral cues and certain physical characteristics, as subtle as they may be, can give them away. You will receive detailed training on how to identify these signs.”

The session continued with more questions, each one addressing a critical aspect of our upcoming mission. Lieutenant Jackson’s answers were thorough and reassuring, providing us with a clearer understanding of the complexities we would face in Shadowfall.

As the class drew to a close, Jackson emphasized the importance of teamwork and vigilance. “Remember, you are not alone in this. Rely on each other, stay alert, and use the resources at your disposal. Your mission is to protect human life and ensure the safety of our society. It’s a daunting task, but with the right training and preparation, you will succeed.”

We left the auditorium feeling a mix of apprehension and determination. The challenges ahead were immense, but the detailed briefing and Jackson’s guidance had fortified our resolve. We knew that our training had only just begun and that the road ahead would be arduous. However, with the knowledge we had gained and the support of the ZES, we felt ready to face whatever lay ahead in Shadowfall.

Our theory classes continued for many days, each session packed with vital information. Lieutenant Jackson lectured us tirelessly about zombies and aliens, answering our myriad questions. We were often exhausted from taking copious notes, our hands aching from the relentless pace of writing. Despite the fatigue, we knew this knowledge was crucial for our mission. Finally, the day arrived when our physical training was set to begin.

Unlike the theory classes, there was no special trainer assigned to us. Lieutenant Jackson himself took charge, reflecting the gravity of our mission. He gathered us on the training ground and addressed us with a firm but encouraging tone. “As you have all been trained by the army, there’s no need to start with the basics. We’ll focus on advanced techniques that are essential for this mission,” he said.

Our first exercise was walking over a rope. It sounded deceptively simple, but Lieutenant Jackson emphasized its importance. “This exercise is crucial for building balance and agility. In the field, you might find yourself in situations where these skills are the difference between life and death,” he explained.

We took turns walking across the suspended rope. It was a test of balance, focus, and composure. Sarah moved with grace, her background in athletics evident in her fluid movements. Dr. Will and Dr. Marcus struggled initially, their lack of recent physical activity showing. However, with determination and a few falls, they managed to cross the rope.

Next, Lieutenant Jackson tested our stamina. We ran laps around the training field, pushing our bodies to their limits. This was particularly challenging for Dr. Will and Dr. Marcus, who were more accustomed to intellectual pursuits than physical exertion. Despite their difficulties, they persevered, driven by the knowledge that our lives could depend on our physical capabilities.

After running, we moved on to the shooting range. Lieutenant Jackson guided us to a specialized area where targets were set up at various angles. “This is no ordinary shooting practice,” he explained. “These targets are designed to appear only when approached from the correct angle. If you don’t align yourself properly, they remain invisible.”

This exercise was particularly challenging. It required not just accuracy but also the ability to think spatially and anticipate the correct approach. We took turns at the range, firing at targets that appeared only when we moved in the right direction. The practice was rigorous, demanding both physical and mental agility. Over time, we began to improve, hitting more targets with greater precision.

The lieutenant emphasized the importance of this exercise. “In the field, you won’t always have a clear shot. Understanding angles and anticipating your target’s movements are crucial skills,” he said. We took his words to heart, knowing that our survival could depend on these abilities.

In between these intense training sessions, Lieutenant Jackson allowed us a brief respite—a visit to the city of Stormwatch. The city, unlike what we had imagined, was not well-developed. It had a rugged, utilitarian feel, with numerous military installations and government buildings. The streets were lined with functional, unadorned structures, reflecting the city’s focus on defense and administration.

As we walked through Stormwatch, we observed the bustling activity around us. Soldiers and officers moved with purpose, their expressions serious and focused. We visited several institutions and department offices of the army, gaining insights into the broader operations of the ZES. The visit was both educational and sobering, reminding us of the scale of the conflict we were about to enter.

Despite its utilitarian nature, Stormwatch had a unique charm. There were pockets of civilian life interspersed among the military installations. Small shops and cafes provided brief moments of normalcy amid the backdrop of military preparedness. We took the opportunity to relax and recharge, knowing that our training would resume soon.

Returning to the ZES headquarters, we felt a renewed sense of purpose. Our time in Stormwatch had underscored the importance of our mission and the high stakes involved. We completed our remaining training sessions with increased dedication, mastering the advanced techniques Lieutenant Jackson taught us.

By the end of our training, we had become a well-coordinated unit. We had honed our physical skills, sharpened our shooting accuracy, and strengthened our stamina. Dr. Will and Dr. Marcus, despite their initial struggles, had caught up, displaying a commendable level of resilience and determination. Sarah’s athletic prowess was evident, and I felt confident in my own abilities.

Lieutenant Jackson’s rigorous training regimen had prepared us well. We had learned to trust each other and work as a cohesive team. As we finished our last session and prepared to return home, Jackson gathered us one final time. “You’ve all done exceptionally well. Remember, the skills you’ve learned here will be your lifeline in Shadowfall. Stay vigilant, stay strong, and most importantly, stay together,” he said.

We packed our bags and said our goodbyes to the ZES headquarters, feeling a mix of anticipation and trepidation. Our mission in Shadowfall awaited, and we knew that our training was just the beginning. The real challenges lay ahead, but with the knowledge and skills we had gained, we felt ready to face them.

Back home, we took a brief moment to rest and reconnect with our families. The time for relaxation was short, however, as the mission loomed large in our minds. We were no longer just a group of individuals; we were a team, united by a common goal and prepared to face the dangers of Shadowfall together.