The CDC was once a highly confidential facility. After the zombie outbreak began, the relevant authorities stationed troops here for an extended period, continuing the fight against the undead.
However, a fatal event eventually caused the collapse of the garrison. Some soldiers inside were infected and turned into zombies, leading to complete chaos. The CDC's entrance had once been wide open, but the sudden onslaught by these zombies resulted in the immediate deaths of many staff members.
In the blink of an eye, the facility became another haven for the undead. Jenner was fortunate enough to survive, but he was completely alone. Never having ventured outside, he believed this place was still safe.
"Looks like you're having a pretty good time."
When Jason arrived at the CDC, he looked around and saw Jenner eating instant noodles. He smiled and said, "But from what I know, a facility like this only has limited food supplies. You've only got a few lights on in such a massive place. I'm guessing your backup power isn't going to last much longer."
Jenner was about to ask why Jason was here, but after hearing that, his expression changed. He forced a smile. "The power here is enough to last me a lifetime. I'm not worried about running out at all."
Though he spoke with confidence, Jenner was inwardly shaken. No one else should know these things. So how did this stranger know so much?
"Stop kidding yourself, Dr. Jenner."
Jason called him by name, then pointed to the work badge hanging nearby, shrugging. "I came here because I'm looking for hope. You're a doctor—my team needs medical help. Instead of sitting here waiting to die, why not come with me and do something meaningful?"
Jason wasn't one for subtlety. He had come to take Jenner with him—by any means necessary.
"Don't even think about it."
Jenner shook his head wildly. His mental state was clearly unstable. He darted to the workbench and locked the door with a click.
Sitting back down, he laughed maniacally. "You can't open that door, so you might as well stay. Just eat, drink, and wait for the end. Isn't that easier?"
He had food and drink—red wine and beef, no less. But stepping outside meant facing zombies again, and maybe becoming one of their meals.
"You maniac! Open the door and let us out!"
Shane shouted angrily. He had no intention of dying here with this lunatic.
"If I open the door, will you come with me?"
Only Jason remained calm. He took a seat, crossed his legs, and looked at Jenner with a half-smile. "Let's make a bet. I'll open that door. If I do, you come with us and join the team. Deal?"
"No way. You can't open that door!"
Jenner shook his head firmly. "Even if you somehow did, I'd go with you—but it's impossible."
As the facility's administrator, he was the only one who knew the password and the unlocking process. There was no way Jason, an outsider, could get through.
Jason smirked, then slowly walked over to the workbench. Under Jenner's stunned gaze, he suddenly snatched the ID badge off his chest. Then, he pulled out a hidden keypad device from beneath the table.
"You—!"
Jenner was completely stunned. He leapt to stop Jason, but Shane held him down and landed a solid punch.
"Stay put, or I swear I'll knock you out again."
Shane was furious. If Jason couldn't open the door, he was ready to take Jenner down himself.