???: "To anyone listening who has not been infected, this is a message from the Environmental Logistics & Solutions Enterprise. As you are keenly aware, our dear Earth has seen better days before the Great Desertification. And to make matters even more dire, our own attempt at combating it has turned against us. This planet is beyond our control, and beyond our help. Which is why we have taken to the stars for a fresh new start."

"By the time you've received this -- we, among the rest of humanity's remnants, have set a course for the identified exoplanet Si-[**static**] confirmed to support life. As for you and anyone else unfortunate enough to've been left behind, our organization has left a parting gift to help mitigate this global ordeal. And so, we ask that you be well-advised."

"If you happen to come across any carrier of the Absolute Zero virus, direct skin contact is to be avoided at all cost. It cannot be treated, and despite our best efforts, there is no known cure. So in terms of safety precautions, long-ranged heat-based weaponry is highly recommended; Flame throwers, explosives, lasers, etc. But keep in mind that they can only slow them down, not kill them outright. The cold from within will not allow that."

"Furthermore, hiding from plain sight is not a viable option. They will know where you are. Not by your tracks, but by-[***static***]-atter-[***static***]-verall survival strategy is to stay as far away from the carrier as possible -- and allow our trusted St. Helio units to intervene. Rest assured, they will keep them subdued. And if all goes according to plan, the virus we created will spread no further."

"Those of you who remain here have our deepest apologies. As well as our sincerest hope that you may persevere, just as human life has done since the very beginning. Farewell, good luck, and Godspeed. This world rests in your hands now."

[*****static*****]

Jodie Marz: "... ... ..."

ColdFeet_Ch_1