NOVEL NEXT WORLD Chapter 29: Arriving at the CDC
"Now, get ready."
As soon as Jason finished speaking, everyone applauded and expressed their agreement with the arrangements made by these soldiers.
"Alright, I appreciate your trust. I can assure you that I will do everything possible to ensure your safety. We will be strong in this new world, and nothing will stop us."
Rick stood next to his wife, looking at this friend he had only truly gotten to know a few days ago. He, who used to speak little, was now communicating with those around him, and surprisingly, everyone had confidence that Jason was the one who would lead them out of this hell.
At that moment, Rick suddenly realized that Jason was well-suited to be a leader. He had a much broader vision than anyone else struggling to survive, he didn't hide behind others, and he was always thinking of ways to improve their situation.
"We won't achieve that if we leave everything up to just one group of people." Shane's voice came from the side. Rick turned his head to look at his friend and smiled slightly.
"Yeah, that's why we're going to help him."
…
Although everyone planned to leave the next day, Jason had different thoughts. He ordered everyone to get ready and then walked toward Ed's tent.
"Need any help?" Jason asked with a friendly smile.
At that moment, Carol stepped out with a large suitcase and looked at Jason standing not far from her tent. "You've already done so much for us. We're very grateful that you decided to take us all in."
Jason glanced into the distance and watched Ed loading things into a truck. He then turned back to Carol and said, "One day, you'll have to deal with it. Do you want me to help you with that?"
Carol seemed surprised—she had no idea how Jason had figured out her relationship with her husband in just one night.
"It doesn't matter. I just hope that one day, he changes..."
"I hope so too. But his behavior seems explosive, and that's something that won't be tolerated in the shelter." Jason reached into his vest and pulled out a thin knife, handing it to Carol, who took it with trembling hands.
"I hope you understand—this world needs strong people. If you want to protect your daughter, you must become a strong woman."
After saying that, Jason smiled and returned to his RV to organize his people. He didn't want to interfere too much in Carol and Ed's relationship, but if she didn't resolve that brewing issue, he would take care of it himself and show everyone that his authority in the shelter would not be challenged.
When everyone was ready to leave, Jason got into his vehicle, and the journey began.
…
[Priority Transmission Alert]
"This is an emergency message from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Atlanta facility. This shelter remains operational and is capable of receiving refugees."
"The immediate presence of military personnel or any government agency receiving this transmission is requested to reinforce perimeter and operational security at this designated safe point."
"This message is retransmitted at regular intervals. If you can hear it, there is still hope."
On the road, Jason heard the announcement playing on the radio just as they entered the transmission range. He needed to strengthen his ranks and expand his territory.
And the only way to do that was by taking in more refugees, which was why the broadcast played 24/7.
"Do you have a future plan for the CDC?" Morgan leaned against a seat in the RV, feeling a bit tired. He looked at the silent Jason and suddenly asked.
From what he had heard, the message on the radio came from the shelter they were heading to. The journey was long, and they had barely spoken about anything until now. He just wanted to know more about the plans in Jason's mind.
From his experience, he knew that resources would become a major issue for a shelter with so many people, so he wondered how Jason intended to solve that problem.
It was hard to imagine maintaining control in such circumstances—it required incredible authority and a firm hand to manage large groups filled with desperation.
Jason looked out the RV window at the road, thought for a moment, and said, "Before all of this happened, society had many different groups pursuing their own goals. Some of those groups were dangerous, and others didn't care who they had to eliminate as long as they achieved their objectives."
As he spoke, he pulled a sheet of paper from his bag and said, "Nowadays, can you imagine how many refugee groups like ours exist in the country? It's only been a few months since the modern world collapsed, and food is already starting to run out. What do you think those groups will do when they encounter smaller ones?"
"It doesn't matter if we're a group of five or twenty—larger groups will find a way to take what little we have. My goal is to expand our territory, find refugees, and prepare to create a new world within this hell."
After briefly explaining his plan, Jason looked at Morgan and Guillermo, who remained silent. "And what about you? Do you think my approach is right?"
"I do," Guillermo nodded and said. "We need to move much faster than the others, secure valuable resources before they become scarce, and prepare everyone for the world you're talking about."
Jason nodded and said, "While they work on a cure at the CDC, we'll need to expand our forces, train those who don't know how to use a weapon, and prepare for the future."
"I can only say that I'll help. I want to protect my family, and I won't allow any other group to come into our safe place and cause trouble," Morgan said after receiving a clear explanation from Jason. He thought things were moving too fast, but he also knew that many people wouldn't hesitate to do evil to get what they wanted.
Jason nodded and said no more. Seeing that everyone understood his words, he felt relieved about the road ahead. He had to do things right and avoid mistakes.
…
The journey was uneventful. The eight vehicles encountered no unforeseen problems, and even if they had, they had plenty of security, and everyone was prepared for the worst.
Jason's RV, driven by George, led the way, while the rear was protected by two Humvees with mounted machine guns.
By the time they arrived at the CDC, it was getting dark.
As they entered the CDC's well-guarded perimeter, Jason's people ensured that security was top-notch. Everyone could see tanks stationed at strategic locations and some streets completely sealed off with metal fences.
Humvees with machine guns and barricades manned by heavily armed soldiers made the place look extremely secure and reliable.
With Jason's presence, they all entered without needing to provide explanations or introduce themselves.
The garage door opened in the distance, and a few cars entered while the rest parked outside the CDC.
"Jason, you're finally back!"
Several people in black uniforms approached alongside the Jenners, and Jason stepped forward to greet them.
"I'm glad security remains intact in my absence. We'll continue to grow and make sure we have a stronghold for the future." Jason looked at the important scientists with a smile.
"There's nothing surprising about it. It's thanks to you that this place is still running and safe." Edwin looked at the people getting out of the vehicles and was surprised to see more survivors.
As everyone exited their cars and stood in the garage, the Jenners had already been briefed about many aspects of the future and agreed to establish a shelter as long as Jason remained in control.
Jason turned around and addressed everyone.
"Attention. Everyone here must undergo a blood test. This is an unchangeable rule of the CDC, and it's also for everyone's safety. Once inside the facility, you must not shout—many researchers are working in the laboratories."
"These are the lead scientists. This is Dr. Edwin Jenner and his wife, Candace Jenner. They will be responsible for the screenings."
After pausing, Jason looked at Rick and Shane. "Proceed in an orderly manner. Rick, Shane, organize everyone to keep things under control."
"Guillermo, once the tests are done, you'll be able to see your friends and family," Jason finally said.
"Thank you so much, Jason. I got it," Guillermo said, feeling emotional about the security of this place. The elders would definitely be safer here, and there was little to worry about now.