Chapter 5: The Nightmare Virus
453 Words
Looking down from above, Merlin saw that his neighborhood had been sealed off.
Outside, police officers had set up several rings of yellow tape, creating a scene eerily similar to the Green Garden neighborhood from last night.
“Boss, what’s going on?” the chubby guy asked over the phone.
Merlin was at a loss for an answer.
He still didn’t fully understand what was happening, but it was clear that his colleague, along with the other three employees, wouldn’t be able to get in.
“I just woke up and don’t have the full picture yet. You should head home for now. The studio will be closed today,” Merlin said. As the studio boss, he had the authority to make that decision, even though it meant losing out on some orders and money.
“But I brought breakfast,” the chubby guy said, looking at the youtiao and tea eggs in his hands.
Merlin hung up the phone.
The chubby guy sighed, feeling frustrated. Without work, there would be no wages, and with the situation outside, it was impossible to get in. The entrance was blocked off, with police and people in protective suits at every exit.
Unable to enter or exit.
Merlin brushed his teeth and washed his face, then checked his phone for local news.
As expected, there were updates.
“Bird City Morning News: According to the latest reports, three residential areas in Sanqiao District experienced an unexpected event last night, resulting in casualties. Further details will follow in our subsequent reports.”
Official media reports were always cautious. Although they seemed informative, they often lacked useful details.
Merlin continued browsing.
Some social media outlets had more sensational headlines.
“Breaking News: Something serious has happened. Sanqiao District is now sealed off. This is real—pictures and proof included…”
The post included several images.
Merlin saw that his own neighborhood was among them.
“The authorities are tight-lipped. The news I’ve shared might be deleted at any moment, so save it while you can. Here’s the crucial information.”
“Reliable sources say that many people have died. This picture was taken at 5 AM outside Building 4 in the Green Garden neighborhood. See for yourselves.”
The post featured two photos: early morning shots showing people in protective suits moving bodies from the building’s hallway, with a dozen bodies laid out outside, all in black body bags. The scene was unsettling.
The photos appeared to be taken by a resident.
“The official story has shifted from a gas leak. Based on the protective gear worn by the personnel on site, I suspect it might be a sudden infectious disease or an epidemic virus.”
- Writer
