by Jamie Marks
“It’s one of the reasons why people like me exist, Mr. President. Oh, and my protégé here,” Harris said as he indicated toward Ambrose.
“After the Greenbrier’s exposure in the press we had to find another place where government could continue without hindrance if a nuclear war was to happen, or an emergency such as this. We needed a place for government to continue to run safely, and to appear as if it was still operating from Washington.” Harris took a sip from his crystal tumbler. “And that opportunity emerged in 1996 when the Centennial Olympic Stadium underwent reconstruction, after the Atlanta Olympics to create a new baseball stadium for the Braves. Ted was a godsend; he loved the grandeur of the project and hence the title “Project Diamond.”
“I do enjoy all this cloak and dagger,” Holtz said.
“Underneath what is now Turner Field is the world’s most technological advanced bunker system that has ever existed. Atlanta was the obvious choice, not only did it have major roadways and rail links. It had in addition, access to local and international airports as well as Turner Field itself and the Five Points, the Marta (Metro Atlanta Rapid Transport Authority). Turner field itself allows more than enough space to enable helicopters and Jump Jets. I would furthermore like to add that Atlanta has a very strong military presence with Fort McPherson being near and supported by its own network of smaller forts and martial compounds, and let’s not forget the Centre for Disease and Control.”
“Amazing,” Holtz said.
“Once again that is a part of what I do, Mr. President, among other things, of course,” Harris said and then continued.
“The bunker itself has forty-eight dormitories, each capable of holding one hundred and ten people of which ten per cent of that figure is for military personnel. We have ten, thirty-five thousand-gallon water tanks and several diesel fuel tanks, which allow for one hundred and twenty-five days of operation without restriction. The bunker also has an eight hundred-seat auditorium, and a replica of the Oval Office, and the official White House media gallery, sponsored by Ted’s CNN. On the lower floors, the bunker has a hospital capable of treating one hundred and twenty people and a level-four research laboratory in case of an emergency, such as this.”
President Holtz shook his head in amazement as he took another sip of Scotch.
Harris continued, “We could stay under the streets of Atlanta for many months to come, nothing and nobody can get access to the bunker once the blast doors are shut, but we will still have complete access to the outside world via military and civilian telecommunications, where they exist. And we have full access to Time Warner’s movie database and programming for entertainment. The bunker is wired to detect any foreign agent released into the air, and can also detect any variables in the outer atmosphere not only in Atlanta, but also in several of our major cities throughout the country. I’m sure that’s enough of the stats for now, unless you feel otherwise, Mr. President,” Harris said.
“So we couldn’t become infected inside of the bunker?” Holtz asked, a little concerned.
“It’s extremely doubtful, Mr. President. Decontamination rules will be strictly enforced. Anyhow, it appears physical contact is the key to the spread of infection.”
Ambrose watched as the President offered a sigh of relief.
Harris continued, “As we speak, members of Congress and our leading men in the Military and Homeland Security, including the new head of Home Land Security, Martin Gibson, are making their way to the bunker via special shuttle runs we have organized. We don’t expect any trouble in getting everyone mobile, unless some have already fallen victim to the virus itself in the early days. Those men and women we cannot help.”
“When can we expect to see Carnegie?” asked Holtz. “I thought he would ride with us.”
“He’s already there, Mr. President, helping to organize everything from that end. I have also taken the initiative in organizing transport for Congressional dependants. On that note, how has your wife found her new role as the First Lady?” asked Harris.
Holtz smiled. “Well, as you can see, she’s not here with me. She’s out in the cabin taking care of the entertainment; she was born a perfect hostess.”
Ambrose watched Harris as he said, “Well that’s just fantastic, I hope she relishes the experience.”
Did any of these people even care a damn anymore? Ambrose thought to himself.
ON THE ROAD
TIME TO FUEL
Anderson leaned toward Tyler. “Most of the pumps seem clear. We may have to push a few vehicles out of the way, but that shouldn’t pose a problem.”
“Just noise and time, Lieutenant, both things we can’t afford.”
“I don’t see any other option.”
“Sadly, neither do I,” Tyler said as he scanned the area looking for any signs of life. Where are the drivers of all these cars, and trucks? He wondered. Then he saw something move, and quickly nudged Anderson, who glanced over to where Tyler had indicated.
Anderson couldn’t see anything and adjusted the light balance on his night-vision goggles. However, he still couldn’t acquire a clear view.
“What was it?” asked Cook.
Tyler shook his head; he was unsure.
“I think it’s somebody or something moving? It’s near the Toyota. You can see something moving toward the car. It looks like somebody’s crawling. Truth is, it could be anything.”
Cook couldn’t see much of anything in the dark.
It was nigh impossible to see anything with the smoke clouds covering the moon and the stars.
“I don’t see it,” Anderson said.
“You see where the Coke sign is...”
“Yeah.”
“Look to the right of that, you’ll see a Toyota.”
“I’m not good with Jap cars,” Anderson said.
Tyler pointed again. “The one behind the Chevy, to the right of the Coke sign.”
“Okay, got it.”
“Look at the front wheels, under the car, on the far side.”
“Okay. Yes, I see it. It’s moving.” Anderson paused for a moment. “How can we tell if it’s one of them?” Lieutenant Anderson asked.
“We go over and check it out,” answered Tyler, “or we wait here, and confirm,” he added.
“I vote wait here,” Cook said.
Tyler smiled in the darkness. “I guess a few minutes won’t hurt.”
“What if it’s a kid who’s scared or something?” Cook said after a few minutes, “They might need our help.”
“Are you suggesting we go and look?” Anderson asked.
“I’m laying down some options, that’s all. I was only considering that if I was a kid, I wouldn’t be too brave about moving around in the dark, especially with these things wandering about.”
Tyler agreed.
“The problem as I see it is this, the people who drove these vehicles are where? Are they dead or alive and walking out-of-town? They could be anywhere.”
“Yeah, who knows,” Cook said.
Tyler yawned, and added, “Well, if it is a kid, we can’t just wait around here.”
“We can’t wait around here anyway, Captain,” Anderson said. “I say we go down there and see what exactly it is, if it is anything at all. If it is one of those things, we’ll kill it. If it’s not one of them, we’ll score one for the good guys.”
Tyler nodded in agreement, as his mind went back to the girl playing soccer, at Fort Gillem. In his mind’s eye, he saw her fall and get up, and then fall again as her foot rolled over the ball. He considered where she was now and if she made it out? He doubted it, he never saw her again after the first few shots that had killed his men at the gates. He wished he could have done more for her; none of this was her fault, anyone’s fault, but the people who caused it all. Perhaps Susan was right, back out there on the road. Possibly, I don’t deserve their confidence, their trust. I’ve failed every test that’s been asked of me. I’ve failed everyone.
“You think w
e should just roll on down there?” Tyler said.
“I don’t see why not.”
“Cook, what are your thoughts on this?” Tyler asked him.
“I trust you’ll make the right choice,” Cook said.
Tyler chuckled to himself.
“What’s so funny?” Cook asked.
“If you knew, it would probably kill you,” Tyler answered him.
“Anderson, survey the surrounding area. I’ll watch the target. If it’s one of ours, I want them covered, we’ll be their guardian angels,” Tyler said, his choice made.
Lieutenant Anderson pressed his M16A4 to his shoulder and readied it to fire single shot bursts.
For the next few minutes, nobody spoke.
“Oh, God,” Tyler said as he pulled his night-vision goggles from his face with disgust.
“What is it?” asked Cook.
“You don’t want to know,” Anderson said as he lowered his rifle and removed his goggles as well.
“Is it that bad?” Cook asked. “Was it a kid?”
Tyler stood up and began to walk away. “I’m calling the area cleared,” he said as Lieutenant Anderson got to his feet and then followed him. Nevertheless, he first offered his night-vision goggles to Cook, who refused to take them.
“I don’t need to see it,” Cook said. “Just tell me.”
“It was just as you had said, but it wasn’t alive. A dog was dragging it...” Anderson said as he replaced the night-vision goggles back on his head and continued to walk away.
Cook looked up at the smoky sky. “At least the child was truthfully dead. I can thank you for that.”
* * *
Tyler leaned against the Humvee as the others stood around him in a half circle: Anderson, Cook, Williams, Charlie and Susan. Using a stick, a few rocks and a paper cup, Tyler told them the outline of his plan, which had only one possible problem, how to pump the gas? “If the pumps rely on the grid for power, we could be in some trouble,” Tyler said to the group, “unless the gas station itself has a backup generator, but if there is no generator for the gas pumps. I don’t know…”
“Well, that’s some awesome planning,” Susan said. “Which leaves me with just one question.”
Tyler sighed. “What?”
“Were you also involved in finding the weapons of mass destruction in Iraq? Because with your insight, you would have been a real asset to the team,” Susan said and then laughed alone.
There was no choice but to try though, regardless of what problems could exist, Tyler considered.
The vehicles needed fuel, and some more again in reserve, so Tyler continued to explain to them the entire plan. They would use the Humvee to force any vehicles that obstructed the pumps out of the way. Williams would stay with the Humvee to man the .50 calibre at all times. While Cook would deal with pumping the gas, providing all was well.
Tyler had given Susan the task of collecting water and anything edible for the journey ahead once the main area of the gas station was secured. It was a relatively easy task, even so, she voiced a complaint. “So a woman’s job is in the kitchen, Captain?”
“Can you use a gun?” Tyler asked her.
“If you can use one, I don’t see how hard it could be. On the other hand, maybe the lieutenant could give me a quick lesson on the basics of using a firearm and firearm safety?”
“No,” he said and then continued, “Do you know anything about generators?”
She shook her head no, again.
“Would you rather pump the gas?” Tyler asked.
“I’m a full service girl,” she said.
“Then yes; your job is in the kitchen, Miss Shaw.”
Tyler glanced over to Charlie. “Charlie.”
“Yes.” The big man was already sounding nervous.
“You help Officer Cook, whatever he says goes. Lieutenant Anderson will keep the outer perimeter under surveillance and will protect you both.”
“What about me?” Susan asked.
“I’ll protect you too,” Anderson said to her.
“Super!”
“I’ll get the pumps running if they’re not working. Otherwise I will support Lieutenant Anderson.”
Tyler gave his team one last look before heading out.
“We didn’t see any creatures that are mobile near the gas station. However, we will see some gruesome sights. Just keep your cool and everything will be fine, but if something does happen, if some creatures do arrive while we’re fueling up, try not to panic,” Tyler said, making eye contact with everyone in the group.
“Those of us, who’re armed, pick your targets and shoot for effect. Head shots only. Even so, just shoot if there is no other recourse; otherwise use one of the shovels on the Humvee. We’re low on ammo, and guns make loud noises. Keep your noses clean and your wits about you. You all know that if you become infected, you’re already dead. I have faith in all of you, and I have a good feeling about this. We’re all getting out of here alive or on my head be it. Let’s go!”
Susan opened the door to the Wolfpac and slumped into her seat. “God, that guy’s an Asshole with a capital A. Who the fuck does he think he is? We’d be better off with Lieutenant Anderson in command. A real man, smart, athletic, intelligent.”
Charlie didn’t say anything.
“Fucking Tyler. Paul was no different than him; the same macho bullshit. You’re lucky. It’s easier for a man, even a dumb fuck like you, only women can understand how cruel and twisted these types of men are. You stick with me; I’ll watch your back, just you and me --- a real team. This guy Tyler will kill us all, unless I do something about it. I have to stop him to save the group, to get us all home. And if he thinks I’ll be playing den mother to a bunch of immature, cowboy wannabes riding the range for shits and giggles, he has another thing coming!”
“We need the fuel Susan.”
She glared at Charlie. “Yeah, trust you to want to go play toy soldiers, Charlie. Why don’t you go and ask your boyfriend for a ride in their GI Joe Jeep and give ’em all a great big kiss.”
“I wasn’t saying…”
Charlie had known Susan to walk off the deep end before, but this was something that was even beyond what he knew of her. Her entire demeanor had changed from angry, to unhinged without so much as a warning. The hate he felt radiating from her was almost unpalatable, in spite of being as greatly in love with her as he was. He had always been afraid of Susan and worried about the looks she would sometimes give him; looks of disgust and pity, looks that made him feel smaller than a dime, and worth just as much. Except this was different. She scared him now, really scared him.
It was then he realized he had to help her, no matter what she might do, or what she had said to him, he had to help her. She needed him more than ever and in the end, she would love him for it. He was sure of it.
“Whatever, he expects me to walk around without a gun and to rely on the big brave captain for my safety. What is this, 1884? Do I look like the preacher’s wife? Just who the fuck does Tyler think he is? When we get back to civilization, I’m going to expose this moron to the world. I’ll tell the world how he ran away and left all those people behind, and how they begged him for help before he served them up for lunch. I’ll let everyone know that he is a coward.”
“That’s not true,” Charlie said.
“That doesn’t matter; the media is king. Look at the Arab spring. You-tube brought down Gaddafi and Mubarak! People will believe what they’re told to believe, and they trust in me! I have a fan base, Charlie, remember?”
“I remember.”
“I remember too. I remember everything, especially those who help me. You know that, don’t you, Charlie?”
“I do.”
She was right, Tyler had treated her badly --- maybe it went both ways? However, I know where my loyalty lies --- we’re a team now. The captain doesn’t understand just how important Susan really is, and what she means to millions of people. If he did, maybe things would be better.
She wouldn’t be as angry, and upset. He didn’t like to see her upset.
Charlie reached under his seat and searched for the Colt .45. Pistol that he stole from the armory just before the gas pumps had exploded.
“Take this, it’s loaded,” he said.
Susan snatched at it and held it with both hands.
Her face was beaming with delight.
It was then Charlie noticed that her injury was bleeding lightly.
“Cool,” she said, and then gave Charlie a huge kiss.
It sent his face bright red. “Don’t let them know I gave it to you,” he said, “otherwise Tyler will get angry, and you need me to work both sides, yeah?”
“Fuck them, Charlie.” She pointed the Colt toward Tyler as he climbed into the Humvee.
“I feel like a super hero,” she said.
“Hide it, please.”
Susan frowned before placing the gun in her handbag. “I’ll hide it for the sake of our team, but don’t cross me, Charlie. I’ll remember.”
WITHOUT A HITCH
“It’s said that it’s the coldest before the dawn,” Tyler said to Anderson.
Anderson shrugged while Cook said, “Today I’d have to agree.”
Each of the men could feel the dawn’s icy fingers tickling its sharp nails down their spines, sending cold shivers deep into their cores.
“All clear,” Williams said as he continued to scan the area wearing his night-vision goggles. “I think we’re good to go.”
“I don’t like this...” Anderson said.
“Everyone gets jumpy. I used to feel the same in Iraq, counting down the clock, the nervous glances, and soul-searching. We all do it, and on every mission, no matter how many you’ve done, successful or not. You could almost say that it was a tradition,” answered Tyler, who then climbed out of the Humvee.
Tyler removed his night-vision goggles to get a feel for the darkness, and found its utter completeness disturbing. Abandoned vehicles and the odor of corpses surrounded him. Tyler could smell death, a sickly, sweet, musk that wafted through the air. Nevertheless, the Dead were nowhere to be seen.
