The War Begins

As planned, Morris Cain led his group down the side staircase while Arthur Knox, leading the second group, took the main one. Just as they had predicted, most of the zombies were attracted toward Arthur's path, creating a clear escape route for Morris's team — which included most of the students.

As the undead began swarming the staircase, Arthur shouted, "Keep moving! I'll cover the rear!"

The students obeyed, rushing down the steps while Arthur stayed behind — hacking and smashing the zombies with steel bottles and raw force.

Then, without warning, something changed.

A zombie — but fast.

It sprinted toward Arthur and pounced, knocking him down.

Arthur realized instantly — this thing was stronger. Much stronger.

He tried to fight it off, but it overpowered him.

That's when Sophie Elwood stepped in.

Without hesitation, she hurled a fire extinguisher to Arthur. He caught it, slammed it into the zombie's skull with all his might — and crushed it.

"You okay?" Sophie asked, her voice trembling.

"Perfect," Arthur grinned through bloodied teeth.

But the smile vanished.

Behind Sophie, two zombies had reached Simran and Raghav. Arthur watched in horror as one of them bit into Raghav's arm. Sophie screamed as blood splattered across the wall.

Arthur didn't hesitate. He lunged, obliterating both zombies instantly — but the damage was done.

"They're bit... Get them to the infirmary, now!" Arthur yelled.

They ran inside and bolted the door shut. Sophie immediately began treating Raghav and Simran with whatever medical supplies they could find — even though they both knew it was probably pointless.

Arthur checked everyone else for scratches or bites. Three more were injured out of the 18 in his group. He knew they'd eventually turn — but he still brought them along… for Sophie's sake.

On the other side, Morris waited by the cycle stand. Others urged him to leave, but he refused.

"I trust Arthur," he said.

Ironically, eight out of twenty-six in Morris's group were also injured.

Just when hope started to fade…

Arthur appeared, leading his group out of the staircase — drenched in crimson.

"Come fast! The runners are coming!" Morris shouted, holding the cycle stand gate open.

Everyone bolted through and slammed it shut behind them.

"We wait here," Arthur ordered.

"It's 12:06 p.m. We'll leave in the morning."

Everyone nodded and settled in, exhausted.

Except for Arthur and Sophie, who stayed awake, sitting side by side — watching the blood dry in silence.