“It’s possible not all at the shopping area agreed with the idea.”
“Not likely,” Jimmy added.
“Unlikely but possible,” Wade pointed out. “Does anyone else have any thoughts?”
“I have a thought,” said one of the four unwelcome guests. “I say we kill the zombies, kill everybody chillin’ across the bridge and take what we want.”
All in the hallway stared at the four.
“You boys suggesting we turn into raiders?” Bubba asked.
“Force is necessary,” the ringleader growled. “I’m not a boy. My associates aren’t boys. We’re grown men.”
“How old are you?”
“Nineteen. Why?”
“Yep. You’re a boy. Listen, son.”
“I’m not your son. Name’s Hector. Standing with me on this matter are Mario, Warlock and Vinny. We’re the best you’ve got.”
“Any man who calls himself Warlock ain’t no man.”
“His name is Warlock for a good reason, redneck. He’s magical.”
“Ain’t no such thing as magic.”
“We all know violence is needed to win.”
“That might be the solution to problems in the future.”
“I’m taking charge.”
“I’ll eat shit before you run this group.”
“You’ll eventually see things my way.”
“You’re brave. I’ll give ya that. Jimmy, Wade. I’m headin’ to the roof. Robert, will you come with me?”
“Sure thing,” Robert answered as he turned his back on the aggressive teens and followed Bubba to the stairs. “I’ve had enough of this nonsense.”
“You and me both, buddy.”
Wade walked into the room to see Jessica on the bed. She shot the wall an apathetic stare.
“We don’t have to share a room, you know.”
“Would you prefer to have your own room, Jessica? I’ll get my stuff and go. I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable.”
“Yeah. Get out.”
“Okay. I’ll grab my stuff and move.”
“I lied.”
“You lied? So, you don’t want me to move out?”
“Right. Just wanted to see what you’d say.”
“Are we friends now?”
“No.”
“I accept that.”
“Good. What are your thoughts on being surrounded by zombies with limited resources? How about sharing space with four loose cannons? The enemies across the bridge?”
“Our thoughts are probably no different.”
“I disagree.”
“You’re confusing me.”
“Take advantage, Wade. Your status carries weight. What you think, say and do influences every person here. Manipulate these people when the opportunity presents itself.”
Wade poked his head into the hallway.
“Glad nobody heard that. Why are you thinking like that?”
“Why aren’t you? These people will fuck us if they think it’s in their best interest.”
“We’re a team.”
“We?”
“All fourteen people here create a single unit.”
“Don’t be a fool.”
“I don’t like what I’m hearing. It’s coldblooded, Jessica.”
“This is a game.”
“Not for me.”
“Then start doing thinking that way.”
Wade suddenly stopped and shuddered.
“Has everything changed so much in such a brief period? Has the world truly gone to hell? Do most human beings feel like it is all or nothing?”
“That’s the new reality. We’ll always stay on top if we combine our strengths.”
“The four teens bother me.”
“I’ve got that covered.”
“What?”
“I want to know what you’re thinking.”
“They have the hots for me. Quite an advantage. The people across the bridge shouldn’t be a big challenge. Their greater numbers don’t matter. They could’ve busted in and slaughtered us. They took a guerrilla approach instead.”
“Are you implying they are cowards?”
“I am. It’s obvious.”
“You could be wrong. They might have pulled that stunt to distract the dead for a getaway or because it was less risky. It’s imperative we not rule that out.”
“Why?”
“Sounds like something a terrorist would do. Raiders could have done this.”
“Taking a nap. Wake me up if you need to.”
“I will.”
Jessica’s harsh perspectives assaulted Wade’s mind. He headed to the roof to get some fresh air. Robert, Bubba and Marty sat in cheap plastic chairs.
“Wade,” Bubba said calmly.
Bubba tossed the soldier a beer.
“Thanks.”
“How’s it goin’, soldier?”
“Worried.”
“Yep. Me, too.”
“Look,” Marty huffed, rising from his chair and handing the binoculars to Wade. “See the light over there?”
Wade looked through the binoculars. His eyes spotted the light source Marty mentioned. It was atop a store’s roof.
“Interesting. Those people are clever, but not clever enough. Zombies will see and investigate the light.”
“Damn,” Bubba smiled, lips pressed against a beer can.
“How long’s it been shining?” Wade quietly asked.
“Been shining since we came up here,” Marty asked. “Makes me happy and excited. Almost tore my beard off.”
Wade took a second look through the binoculars. He was relieved.
“Some zombies are headed towards the shopping area. The dead are crossing the bridge as we speak.”
“I’ll be damned,” Bubba grumbled.
“I could be wrong, but I think most or all the undead near us will be in enemy territory by sunrise.”
“The sun went down a half hour ago. Plenty o’ time for those lanterns to attract more attention. That mistake is gonna cost em’.”
10
The opposers’ ignorance greatly benefitted Wade and his allies. Wade’s living adversaries were surrounded by zombies before realizing what foolish mistake was made. The stragglers remaining at and around the hotel were nothing the group couldn’t handle. Timid survivors used them for much needed combat practice.
“The trappers are now trapped,” Jessica laughed. “You know what people say about karma. How funny.”
“What goes around comes around,” Wade replied. “Karma’s a real pain.”
“Only if you are.”
“I feel bad.”
“Every human being feels bad.”
“Millions upon millions of innocents have suffered and died. Why? Children are frightened and being eaten alive by genuine demons. This is hell on earth.”
Wade descended to the first floor. Jimmy sat at the front desk.
“Hey, Wade. Watching the main entrance. Somebody’s watching the door at all times.”
“The windows concern me more. If I were to break in, I’d avoid entering through the front door.”
“Glad you’re with us. Gotta sharp head on your shoulders. I’ll tell the others what you said. Question.”
“I’m listening.”
“What are we doing? Why are we still here? What’s the game plan?”
“Who is to make that decision?”
“There can’t be two or more leaders. That’d end up in constant inner conflicts.”
“You’d be a good leader, Jimmy.”
“Thanks, but the group would be at its best with you as the shot caller.”
“Rules should be applied, as should plans regarding how to operate during multiple scenarios. We’re disorganized.”
“I agree. Everyone here likes you.”
“Except for the dopers.”
“My point leads to a request. Will you get everyone to come down here? I think we should hold a short meeting.”
“Sure.
Give me a bit.”
“Thanks.”
“Yep. Be back in a jiffy. Oh. Watch the door til’ I get back.”
“Will do.”
Wade stared outside while waiting for Jimmy to return with the rest of the group. He didn’t want to lead but felt he’d have to.
“Not again,” he thought. “Didn’t want to lead another group. Iraq was bad enough. This is entirely different. No person here is trained for combat. What am I going to do? Wish Mom was here to make some ziti. That ziti was the best food. Never could make it like she did.”
Wade’s mind continued drifting until Jimmy returned with the others.
“Okay,” Jimmy announced, clearing his throat. “I want to begin by thanking everyone for coming. I’ll get straight to the point. We need leadership and rules. Let me know now if you don’t approve of Wade being the group leader. Speak now or keep your mouth shut about it.”
“He’s a soldier,” Hector said. “I understand that part. That doesn’t mean he’d make the best leader. He has combat experience and a good brain. He’s skillful as well. I possess the same qualities and am willing to cross lines he wouldn’t. I’ll get evil to help the group if it’s necessary.”
“Wade wants to help you and everyone else here,” Jessica said with a glare. “You want to help yourself.”
“That’s bullshit. You’re kissing Wade’s ass because you need him as a protector.”
“You think I need a protector. Hilarious.”
Hector grunted.
“Then it’s settled,” Jessica said boldly. “Wade’s our leader. Leave if he doesn’t have your loyalty.”
Hector walked up to Wade and nodded.
“Mario, Warlock, Vinny and I are right behind you. Hate the idea, but whatever. Perceive us as your personal death squad. We’ll shoot for you. Say the word and we’ll kill.”
“Thanks, Hector. Happy you four are on our side. I want us to work as a team. As a single unit, we’re as strong as our weakest link. Everyone has or will have a job and schedule. I’ll consult with Jimmy and Jessica. Come find me when there’s a problem or concern. That’ll be all. Thanks.”
Eighteen hours passed. The survivors understood and fulfilled duties. Hector, his friends, Bubba and John often guarded the first and second floors. Marty and Robert took turns watching the perimeter from the roof. Jessica slowly persuaded Casey to see things her way while portraying a caring persona. Casey watched Chap when Erica offered to help Wade and Jimmy.
“Days have passed since the bulk of the horde began pursuing the enemy,” Erica stated. “Our temporary home wasn’t attacked with an assault.”
“They’re weak,” Jimmy added.
“Every choice made will be a very risky one,” Wade stated. “I’m not a local. What lies beyond the highway?”
“I recently moved here,” Erica answered.
“I live in these parts,” Jimmy said, taking a hard drag off a cheap cigar and stubbing it on the wall. “I know where everything is in this county.”
“Good.”
“Past the truck stop are middle class neighborhoods, car lots, small businesses and a ton o’ roads.”
“And from there?”
“At the road’s end is the edge of a town.”
“City’s population?”
“Roughly fifty-nine thousand people are in the town. This city? No idea. Well over a hundred thousand.”
“That’s too many undead.”
“Good thing you, Erica and I are speaking privately. I think I know where we can go. I have a safer place in mind.”
“Where, Jimmy?”
“My brother’s place.”
“Is it big enough to accommodate all of us?”
“And then some. He’s a filthy rich criminal.”
“Explain.”
“His place has it all. My brother was always prepared for the worst. Battery and gasoline operated generators, candles, guns, allies, vehicles, fences and a huge food and water surplus. Only thing the man lacks is a bomb shelter. Going there is worth it. Ain’t got a better idea.”
“Where is this place?”
“Twenty-five miles or so from here.”
“Twenty-five miles on foot doesn’t sound safe,” Erica warned. “Sounds like suicide. A lot could go wrong during the trip. We don’t know if the place is still there, Jimmy. It could be burnt to a crisp.”
“It’s still there. I guarantee it.”
“There are no guarantees,” Wade advised. “Anything’s dangerous.”
“My brother’s a big fish. He’s high up on the game ladder, so to speak. Don’t tell anybody about him being a criminal. Others are hesitant and paranoid as it is. So be it if they discover it later. It’s worth the trip, you two. It’s in the woods. Cameras monitor all movement in the area. Guards are patrolling around the clock.”
“What does the area provide? If the place is remote, we’ll have to rely solely on living off the land.”
“That’s what we’ll do when supplies are gone, Wade.”
“You’ve thought ahead. I’m impressed.”
“That brother o’ mine’s crazy. His madness has paid off time and time again, though. He has spent hours telling me what he’d do if something like this were to happen. Getting there is the bad part. Smooth sailing afterwards. There is a lake and creeks. Plenty o’ fish for food. Hunting’s always gonna be an option. I know he’s got crop seeds.”
“Say no more. I’m convinced it’s the best bet.”
“Not a single better long-term solution comes to mind,” Erica sadly agreed.
“Then it’s settled. I’ll do my best to guide y’all there.”
“Should we invade the stronghold across the bridge or move on?” Jimmy asked.
“Move on,” Erica answered.
“Yeah,” Wade replied. “We need to be packed and ready. We move forward at first light. Let everyone know. The road ahead is going to be tougher than we could imagine.”
11
The organized formation didn’t ease tensions, neither did the pep talk and sensible pace at which they moved didn’t. Searches at truck stops and probing car garages proved to be more challenging than Wade expected. Several close calls convinced the leader to slow the survivors’ pace.
“I almost died for snacks and soft drinks,” Casey cried. “I didn’t see that thing on the other side of the machine. It wasn’t moving. It was like a statue until I grew close.”
“Stay with someone at all times,” Wade calmly instructed. “Every action taken is a huge risk. Being exposed like this is agonizing. Is there a detour we can take, Jimmy?”
“Only way to bypass this half mile stretch is a quarter mile behind us.”
“You mean that right turn we couldn’t take?”
“Yep.”
“Shit.”
“We need extra firepower.”
“Is there a place where we can get some?”
“Yep. Be ready.”
“Always have to be ready to attack, defend or flee. We’ll be ambushed when we reach the hilltop.”
“What makes you think that?”
“Scouts in the bushes.”
“Really? I ain’t seen nothin’. I been lookin’ around the whole time.”
“These people definitely aren’t new to doing this. They’re fast, organized and possess better equipment.”
“How many?”
“Saw four scouts. I have an idea. Listen carefully. Need you to carry out a flanking maneuver. Take Hector, Mario, Vinny and Warlock just off the road’s right side. Stay ahead and remain hidden behind the brush. Don’t fire until the enemy is clustered together. Fire when ready if that opportunity doesn’t come. Go.”
Wade took a deep breath and fearfully led the team up the hill.
“I’m scared,” Jessica whispered, tugging at Wade’s shoulder.
“So am I, but we can handle it. Bubba, Jimmy, Hector and his friends should be able to steal the element of surprise and secure victory. Keep your cool.
Don’t engage unless I or they do.”
Wade examined the downward slope from the hilltop. He was right to assume an ambush awaited them. The team’s enemies used wrecked vehicles to conceal themselves. Dressed in winter attire and hunting masks, eight armed men casually and arrogantly blocked the group’s path. The first few seconds were of silence. The leader in a suit and face covered with red paint gave a smirk.
“Hello,” Wade addressed.
The man in the suit chuckled. His followers laughed.
“First time taking this route,” the man said as he stared at Casey and licked his lips.
“That’s right,” Wade replied. “We must walk through miles and miles to reach our destination.”
“You people seem like good folks.”
“I like to think we are.”
“Good folks help each other. Wouldn’t you agree?”
“They do their part to help the needy.”
“Glad we see eye to eye. My men and I are awfully lonely. It’s been so long since we’ve seen an attractive woman. That blonde gal would be an excellent addition to my ranks. She’d increase morale. I can imagine it now. So tasty. I could ensure nothing terrifying happened to you and your lowlifes. Kindly allow us to borrow her for three hours. All ya gotta do.”
“May God have mercy on you.”
“You humor me, my friend!”
“You’re no friend of mine.”
“A shame. Truly, it is. Such a damned shame. Try not to kill the blonde or brunette, guys. Making love to corpses isn’t as fun anymore.”
Jimmy, Bubba, Hector, Mario, Vinny and Warlock opened fire on the villains. The unsuspecting enemies didn’t have a chance to retaliate. Wade allowed six seconds to go by before issuing orders.
“Search the bodies. Take a firearm if you don’t have one. Plenty to go around.”
“Smart plan,” Erica praised. “You really know how to think on your feet, Wade.”
“Not my first rodeo.”
“Let’s keep moving,” Jimmy nudged.
“Jimmy’s right,” Bubba coughed. “That ruckus is gonna bring those things here. Need to get off this damned road.”
“My thoughts exactly,” Wade said to Bubba. “Where to, Jimmy?”
“I know where. Let’s get what we can from these assholes and head on.”
The team searched the bodies. Pistols, rifles, ammunition and two canteens filled with liquor were looted. Marty smiled while beginning to remove a gold watch from the deceased leader’s wrist. The corpse quickly and aggressively obtained a tight grip on Marty’s shirt collar just as the watch was seized. The newly reanimated creature pulled Marty in for a greedy bite.
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