The world of this story is set in a version of our real world, only now deep into a mid-apocalyptic era. Humanity has begun to stabilize itself, barely, following a zombie outbreak that first began four years ago. The virus—or whatever it is—reached its peak about a year into the spread, and by that time, two major waves of the apocalypse had already struck.
At first, the infected were mindless, rotting corpses, animated by nothing but an endless, gnawing hunger. But they've since evolved. The second generation of zombies developed the ability to smell, hear, and even move—sluggishly, but with purpose. They aren't fast, but they chase now. The origin of the outbreak remains a mystery. And as for a cure? So far, nothing has worked. The only partial success has come in the form of suppressant drugs—temporary solutions that can paralyze the undead for a short time on contact.
So how are humans still surviving?
Every country has reorganized its territory into designated safe zones. Any area that's been completely overrun or destroyed—where zombies roam freely and lethal threats wait around every corner—is now called a Dead Zone. These make up the vast majority of the land. Only the military is authorized to explore these zones… though most don't dare enter them at all.
In India—where this story takes place—an estimated 95% of the country is classified as Dead Zone.
The remaining 5% is divided into three levels of Safe Zones.
Level 3 Safe Zones are where ordinary people live. They're protected by basic fences and walls, guarded by a mix of lightly armed or sometimes even unequipped personnel. Most people call them "residential zones." You'll find community-run farms, makeshift markets, and the occasional military drop-off—if the higher-ups feel generous enough to spare the rations.
Level 2 Safe Zones are more tightly secured. These are priority zones, shielded by solid concrete walls, constantly monitored by surveillance cameras, and guarded by trained personnel. Inside, you'll find key institutions: military-training schools where students undergo intense physical and tactical conditioning; town halls ruled by local government figures like the Mayor; a few hospitals—only available to those who can afford the bribes—and the underground market. What's the underground market, you ask? You'll find out later.
Then there's Level 1—the highest tier. These zones are off-limits to nearly everyone. Inside are military bases, advanced research labs, Parliament offices, and, somehow, the luxurious residences of the country's remaining billionaires.
Our story begins in one such Level 2 Safe Zone, centered around a school that managed to survive the first two waves of the apocalypse. Thanks to the political reach of its owner, the school earned its classification as a priority zone.
But how long can it really last?
Because the world outside hasn't stopped collapsing.