I am back.
So much has happened since it all began.
Planes flew overhead a few months ago dropping pamphlets all over the city. Apparently, this was all caused by a joint bioterrorist/cyber attack. A strain of something called ophiocordyceps unilateralis was released while "a massive cyber attack against American cyber infrastructure" commenced.
A group of us broke into one of the local libraries to try to figure out just what in the world this thing was. What we learned explained so much.
We've known for a while that close proximity to a head popper resulted in all nearby becoming runners. The reason why, we found, was due to that being a method of spore release. One popper can infect thousands of others, and given the right wind, you can be infected from miles away. We all wear masks now.
As the fungus continues to progress in the runners, they eventually reach what we call the "germination point". The runner becomes awkward and slow as it makes its way to the highest point nearby. Once it gets there, it roots to the structure, dies off, and the chest splits open, releasing millions upon millions of more spores into the wind. The fungus has somehow learned how to ensure its survival.
The rumors are that this thing has spread across the globe. Apparently, Europe had isolated cases just like we did before everything went dark.
The pamphlets say we're working on a cure.
I still haven't found Nicole. Hopelessness continues to gnaw at my heart, and those thoughts have infected my brain. I went back and searched the house. I even checked the hospital. I barely made it out. I still have nightmares.
Avoid the heart of the city. Runners are still out there. Be careful whom you trust. I've learned that the healthy are often more dangerous than the infected.
I've had to do things I would have never fathomed before. I can still see my friends in my memory. Their last expressions.
We came up here the other day before moving on. Into the woods by the tower is a basic shelter if anybody needs it. The tarp and some containers are on the other side. The tower should provide an adequate lookout tower. Winter is coming.
On my first watch, I couldn't help but stare out into the darkness of what was once my city and reminisce.
I left a small container with some items that may help you to do the same. To remember when things were good. To remember when neither our faces nor our hearts were covered in dirt.
WHAT HAVE WE BECOME?