Archived by USSCMD
Introduction
This now defunct Official Website was part of a marketing campaign for the live-action movie Resident Evil Apocalypse. The website launched in August 2003 and was last updated on November 14th 2003.
Official Website
I can’t tell you who I am.
If they discover me… when they discover me… I’ll vanish like the others that tried before.
I am breaking the silence now because I may not survive enough to complete this mission.
I have been watching Umbrella for some time. Gathering information on their terrifying research. I have tried to collect evidence - anything concrete that would make people understand.
The Umbrella Corporation is boldly moving forward with their unsound practices.
In a massive effort, mobilizing Umbrella forces and an entire army of skilled labor, the Corporation is staging a full-scale simulation of viral outbreak in an urban setting. It is being created on massive soundstages under the pretense of just making a movie.
RESIDENT EVIL: Apocalypse..
I know that this is not just a movie.
This is… real.
I’m inside the operation, trying to remain unnoticed as a small cog in this huge machine. So far they don’t know what I’ve learned. They don’t know what I am telling you.
While I can, I will shed light on this evil.
I will take notes.
I will take pictures.
I will take video.
For as long as I can, I will post to this site.
Until I am discovered, until I am… eliminated, I will report to the world from inside.
If they discover me… when they discover me… I’ll vanish like the others that tried before.
I am breaking the silence now because I may not survive enough to complete this mission.
I have been watching Umbrella for some time. Gathering information on their terrifying research. I have tried to collect evidence - anything concrete that would make people understand.
The Umbrella Corporation is boldly moving forward with their unsound practices.
In a massive effort, mobilizing Umbrella forces and an entire army of skilled labor, the Corporation is staging a full-scale simulation of viral outbreak in an urban setting. It is being created on massive soundstages under the pretense of just making a movie.
RESIDENT EVIL: Apocalypse..
I know that this is not just a movie.
This is… real.
I’m inside the operation, trying to remain unnoticed as a small cog in this huge machine. So far they don’t know what I’ve learned. They don’t know what I am telling you.
While I can, I will shed light on this evil.
I will take notes.
I will take pictures.
I will take video.
For as long as I can, I will post to this site.
Until I am discovered, until I am… eliminated, I will report to the world from inside.
USSCMD Note: This button would lead to the info (below), when the mouse hovered over it, pop up text would appear, that read “Inside, I post what I learn.”
Tuesday 12th August 2003
The screenplay, (or is it really a blueprint to disaster?) is tightly controlled. Those who do require this document are forced to agree to keep all details of this movie and of the Umbrella Corp in the strictest confidence.
The screenplay, (or is it really a blueprint to disaster?) is tightly controlled. Those who do require this document are forced to agree to keep all details of this movie and of the Umbrella Corp in the strictest confidence.
Tuesday 12th August 2003 - It Has Begun.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Script_Confidential”
This is the first time I have been able to post – the first time I’ve had any real information. There is so much happening; I don’t know where to start.
This is just the beginning of my search for the evidence that will prove the intents and, ultimately, bring down the Umbrella Corporation.
This is a huge operation. Massive construction has been going on for months. So far, I have not found a way to infiltrate those parts of this "production". Plainclothes security officers guard every door.
Dozens and dozens of trucks, all of them secured, keep coming and going from the Umbrella studio facilities. Many of these trucks are delivering filmmaking equipment. This film, this pretense for Umbrella’s simulation, is a huge endeavor. The other trucks frighten me. They are large, black trucks that arrive quietly in the middle of the night. Under guard, special crews offload their cargo. From my hiding place I still can’t make out what is contained in the trucks. From the way the crates are handled I know it is dangerous.
The screenplay, (or is it really a blueprint to disaster?) is tightly controlled. Those who do require this document are forced to agree to keep all details of this movie and of the Umbrella Corp in the strictest confidence.
Tomorrow I am supposed to work on the set. I have a camera that I will try to hide. If it is not discovered – if I am not discovered – I will have an image here as soon as I can risk posting again.
Tell people what is happening. Tell anyone. Tell everyone.
Safe yourself. Save your loved ones.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Script_Confidential”
This is the first time I have been able to post – the first time I’ve had any real information. There is so much happening; I don’t know where to start.
This is just the beginning of my search for the evidence that will prove the intents and, ultimately, bring down the Umbrella Corporation.
This is a huge operation. Massive construction has been going on for months. So far, I have not found a way to infiltrate those parts of this "production". Plainclothes security officers guard every door.
Dozens and dozens of trucks, all of them secured, keep coming and going from the Umbrella studio facilities. Many of these trucks are delivering filmmaking equipment. This film, this pretense for Umbrella’s simulation, is a huge endeavor. The other trucks frighten me. They are large, black trucks that arrive quietly in the middle of the night. Under guard, special crews offload their cargo. From my hiding place I still can’t make out what is contained in the trucks. From the way the crates are handled I know it is dangerous.
The screenplay, (or is it really a blueprint to disaster?) is tightly controlled. Those who do require this document are forced to agree to keep all details of this movie and of the Umbrella Corp in the strictest confidence.
Tomorrow I am supposed to work on the set. I have a camera that I will try to hide. If it is not discovered – if I am not discovered – I will have an image here as soon as I can risk posting again.
Tell people what is happening. Tell anyone. Tell everyone.
Safe yourself. Save your loved ones.
Thursday 14th August 2003.
Major cities were plunged into the darkness, but with blinding lights, the Apocalypse continued.
Major cities were plunged into the darkness, but with blinding lights, the Apocalypse continued.
Thursday 13th August 2003 – NOTHING STOPS THEM
Chaos is descending on the nation and they just kept working.
Of course Umbrella would have its own power supply. Still, I wonder if they might in any way be behind this blackout that affected such a large swath of the country. Can this be another part of their plan?
Maybe this blackout was a test of the emergency preparedness of the city - or, God help us, the nation.
Maybe the blackout was unintended and just a glitch as Umbrella took over the power grid
I don’t know what really happened but I do know that while tens of millions suffered in the dark and the heat; while chaos and disorder rang in the streets, the Evil went on, unheeding and unabated. They just moved relentlessly forward.
Major cities were plunged into the darkness, but with blinding lights, the Apocalypse continued. Massive air conditioning units continued to whirr as the crew and technicians continued their work.
Most frightening was a whispered comment by the man that seems to be the closest link to Umbrella, Jeremy Bolt – the ‘producer’ of this Evil. I heard him telling an aide: “The A/C must stay on. It’s not the humans I’m most worried about.”
Not the humans?
Chaos is descending on the nation and they just kept working.
Of course Umbrella would have its own power supply. Still, I wonder if they might in any way be behind this blackout that affected such a large swath of the country. Can this be another part of their plan?
Maybe this blackout was a test of the emergency preparedness of the city - or, God help us, the nation.
Maybe the blackout was unintended and just a glitch as Umbrella took over the power grid
I don’t know what really happened but I do know that while tens of millions suffered in the dark and the heat; while chaos and disorder rang in the streets, the Evil went on, unheeding and unabated. They just moved relentlessly forward.
Major cities were plunged into the darkness, but with blinding lights, the Apocalypse continued. Massive air conditioning units continued to whirr as the crew and technicians continued their work.
Most frightening was a whispered comment by the man that seems to be the closest link to Umbrella, Jeremy Bolt – the ‘producer’ of this Evil. I heard him telling an aide: “The A/C must stay on. It’s not the humans I’m most worried about.”
Not the humans?
Friday 15th August 2003.
The first Image! I feel that it's not that she didn't see me, it's that she was looking for someone else. Or something else.
The first Image! I feel that it's not that she didn't see me, it's that she was looking for someone else. Or something else.
Friday 14th August 2003 – I WAS ALMOST DISCOVERED!
The spy camera is working, but this first time in was nearly my last!
USSCMD Note: Lost Image called “image002”
I finally had the chance to get onto the ‘set’ of this ‘movie.’ Sure enough there are security agents everywhere. I snuck down an underground access corridor and nearly came face to face with… I’m not sure, but I know I’ve seen her before – somewhere. She looks so familiar, yet I just can’t be sure. I can see she’s armed, well-trained and fearless.
I tried to enlarge the image to see her face but the image quality of this camera just can’t support the demand.
USSCMD Note: Lost Image called ”image004”
USSCMD Note: Lost Image called “image006”]
I will keep trying. I will find out if she really is… If she really is Jill Valentine.
I don’t know how I escaped. As soon as I saw the torch light up I ducked behind some equipment. I feel that it’s not that she didn’t see me, it’s that she was looking for someone else.
Or something else.
She disappeared down another corridor and I returned to the surface.
These are not the corridors of The Hive. This was a corridor just beneath Raccoon City.
The spy camera is working, but this first time in was nearly my last!
USSCMD Note: Lost Image called “image002”
I finally had the chance to get onto the ‘set’ of this ‘movie.’ Sure enough there are security agents everywhere. I snuck down an underground access corridor and nearly came face to face with… I’m not sure, but I know I’ve seen her before – somewhere. She looks so familiar, yet I just can’t be sure. I can see she’s armed, well-trained and fearless.
I tried to enlarge the image to see her face but the image quality of this camera just can’t support the demand.
USSCMD Note: Lost Image called ”image004”
USSCMD Note: Lost Image called “image006”]
I will keep trying. I will find out if she really is… If she really is Jill Valentine.
I don’t know how I escaped. As soon as I saw the torch light up I ducked behind some equipment. I feel that it’s not that she didn’t see me, it’s that she was looking for someone else.
Or something else.
She disappeared down another corridor and I returned to the surface.
These are not the corridors of The Hive. This was a corridor just beneath Raccoon City.
Saturday 16th August 2003.
As the blackout continues they are not even phased. The Resident Evil set is like a pool of light in a darkened city. It just keeps filming, generators providing all the power they need. Umbrella is not easily stopped.
As the blackout continues they are not even phased. The Resident Evil set is like a pool of light in a darkened city. It just keeps filming, generators providing all the power they need. Umbrella is not easily stopped.
Sunday 17th August 2003.
I caught this picture as Jill Valentine seemed to be looking right through me. Looking at, or looking for something dangerous. Something terrifying.
I caught this picture as Jill Valentine seemed to be looking right through me. Looking at, or looking for something dangerous. Something terrifying.
Sunday 17th August 2003 JILL VALENTINE
I knew it, it really was Jill!
I knew it, it really was Jill!
Maybe it was too easy this time. Maybe they just don't pay attention to me anymore. I brought a delivery to the set and my identity badge allowed me to walk right into the protected area near the movie cameras.
My own hidden camera worked perfectly this time and I caught this picture as Jill Valentine seemed to be looking right through me. Looking at, or looking for something dangerous.
Something terrifying.
I don't know why the camera crew needed such protection. And for the few minutes I was able to see anything, I felt that I was seeing genuine fear, not just acting.
I'm going back in. I must find some answers.
My own hidden camera worked perfectly this time and I caught this picture as Jill Valentine seemed to be looking right through me. Looking at, or looking for something dangerous.
Something terrifying.
I don't know why the camera crew needed such protection. And for the few minutes I was able to see anything, I felt that I was seeing genuine fear, not just acting.
I'm going back in. I must find some answers.
Tuesday 19th August 2003.
I don't know if is warning about this flight or about what might be on that flight.
I don't know if is warning about this flight or about what might be on that flight.
Tuesday 19th August 2003 - CAUTION ?
After capturing a shot of Jill, I was hoping that I could get closer. That I could somehow discover that she would be my ally. Alas that was not to be. I was kept far from her. Far from the action. I became very nervous yesterday, wondering if someone was onto me. It's good that it's been a hot day so that nobody can tell that I was sweating from the fear.
It's been a little different today, I felt that I was still safe - still undiscovered. For the first time I was able to get close to the suits. I was exhilarated as I nearly, for just a second, got a peek at their papers but they were too alert for that.
I felt that I was so close... and yet any foolish move on my part would have been my last. I would risk my life to stop Umbrella. I do risk..... But now I still have work to do before I know they will be brought down.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Matchbook CAUTION!”
My observance was not in vain. One of the suits left behind a matchbook and I snatched it. Inside I found the message of caution. I don't know if is warning about this flight or about what might be on that flight. Maybe it's just an innocuous comment. But I fear there is nothing innocuous about these men.
Something else about this puzzles me.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Matchbook - O'Grady's Inn”
These are very powerful, very wealthy men. I don't expect suits like these to spend time at a quaint little Inn. This seems so out-of-place. Maybe it's just my perception. Maybe I should try to find this place and see if there are any clues there.
But what if they spot me there? How do I explain that I've turned up where the suits go?
It's a risk but if I can't get back to the action soon - if I can't get more proof of their evildoing, then I fear that I have no choice. I have to seek out the evidence, the truth, wherever it may be. And I have a duty and a mission to bring it back here and to tell it to the world.
After capturing a shot of Jill, I was hoping that I could get closer. That I could somehow discover that she would be my ally. Alas that was not to be. I was kept far from her. Far from the action. I became very nervous yesterday, wondering if someone was onto me. It's good that it's been a hot day so that nobody can tell that I was sweating from the fear.
It's been a little different today, I felt that I was still safe - still undiscovered. For the first time I was able to get close to the suits. I was exhilarated as I nearly, for just a second, got a peek at their papers but they were too alert for that.
I felt that I was so close... and yet any foolish move on my part would have been my last. I would risk my life to stop Umbrella. I do risk..... But now I still have work to do before I know they will be brought down.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Matchbook CAUTION!”
My observance was not in vain. One of the suits left behind a matchbook and I snatched it. Inside I found the message of caution. I don't know if is warning about this flight or about what might be on that flight. Maybe it's just an innocuous comment. But I fear there is nothing innocuous about these men.
Something else about this puzzles me.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Matchbook - O'Grady's Inn”
These are very powerful, very wealthy men. I don't expect suits like these to spend time at a quaint little Inn. This seems so out-of-place. Maybe it's just my perception. Maybe I should try to find this place and see if there are any clues there.
But what if they spot me there? How do I explain that I've turned up where the suits go?
It's a risk but if I can't get back to the action soon - if I can't get more proof of their evildoing, then I fear that I have no choice. I have to seek out the evidence, the truth, wherever it may be. And I have a duty and a mission to bring it back here and to tell it to the world.
Wednesday 20th August 2003.
They left the Umbrella Studio Facilities today.
They left the Umbrella Studio Facilities today.
Wednesday 20th August 2003 JILL VALENTINE
They left the Umbrella Studio Facilities today. - A massive army of trucks rolled out and took the Evil with them. The production went on location and so did a full security detachment. I took another camera with me. This is not giving me the best image quality, but it is even smaller and easier to hide.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilLocationSecurity”
I wasn't given a security card for this location so I cannot leave the Base Camp which is just outside the perimiter of the set. I just managed to take these pictures of the exterior. I focused between one of the guards and an outstation. I had to rush to get this out to ... to those who want to help.
Behind the truck (they surrounded the location with these large, white semis), you can see the huge tarps that cover their actions. You can also see the hydro tower that provides power to this enterprise while the rest of the region is being urged to conserve for risk of additional blackouts. These people don't worry about risk. They are the greatest risk of all.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “LocationSecrecy”
My day is barely half-over now, and I believe that tomorrow I will get the chance to enter at least some parts of this strange and dangerous location. If I am not caught first.
They left the Umbrella Studio Facilities today. - A massive army of trucks rolled out and took the Evil with them. The production went on location and so did a full security detachment. I took another camera with me. This is not giving me the best image quality, but it is even smaller and easier to hide.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilLocationSecurity”
I wasn't given a security card for this location so I cannot leave the Base Camp which is just outside the perimiter of the set. I just managed to take these pictures of the exterior. I focused between one of the guards and an outstation. I had to rush to get this out to ... to those who want to help.
Behind the truck (they surrounded the location with these large, white semis), you can see the huge tarps that cover their actions. You can also see the hydro tower that provides power to this enterprise while the rest of the region is being urged to conserve for risk of additional blackouts. These people don't worry about risk. They are the greatest risk of all.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “LocationSecrecy”
My day is barely half-over now, and I believe that tomorrow I will get the chance to enter at least some parts of this strange and dangerous location. If I am not caught first.
Thursday 21st August 2003.
My Umbrella security badge was white - which only gave me access only to the general portion of the "set".
My Umbrella security badge was white - which only gave me access only to the general portion of the "set".
Thusday 21 August 2003 – INSIDE - S.T.A.R.S
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Carlos_Gun”
Finally, I was sent inside today!
My Umbrella security badge was white - which only gave me access only to the general portion of the "set". I tried to accidentally wander down a corridor.
I tried to enlarge the image to see her face but the image quality of this camera just can’t support the demand.
I couldn't get far though, I spotted Carlos and felt like I could easily have become his target myself.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Carlos_Eyes”
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Carlos_Umbrella”
I'm not sure though whether he was really there to stop me, or maybe to save me. It's so hard to tell where allegiances really lie with Umbrella in charge.
I see the Umbrella logo every day, but this one on Carlos' uniform give me more of a chill then ever!
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Carlos_Gun”
Finally, I was sent inside today!
My Umbrella security badge was white - which only gave me access only to the general portion of the "set". I tried to accidentally wander down a corridor.
I tried to enlarge the image to see her face but the image quality of this camera just can’t support the demand.
I couldn't get far though, I spotted Carlos and felt like I could easily have become his target myself.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Carlos_Eyes”
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Carlos_Umbrella”
I'm not sure though whether he was really there to stop me, or maybe to save me. It's so hard to tell where allegiances really lie with Umbrella in charge.
I see the Umbrella logo every day, but this one on Carlos' uniform give me more of a chill then ever!
I wish I knew if he is here to hunt me or to help me.
Saturday 23rd August 2003.
Yellow.
Yellow.
Saturday 23 August 2003 - AT A PRICE!
Drastic change of status today. Maybe other things have changes too...
I was summoned upstairs and notified that I was to be assigned a yellow security badge tomorrow. This will allow me far greater access. This is only two levels from Blue! This exciting news had barely had a chance to sink in when I was informed that this would require a stop at Dr. Eichinger's for a "tetanus" shot.
It was explained that the production insurance demands that anyone allowed onto the main sets must be inoculated due to all the sharp and dangerous equipment used in the special effects and stuntwork.
I don't believe them! I understand the background check, it's standard on most movie jobs, even though no other production company does such a thorough job as Umbrella. But this requirement - this shot is not Standard Movie Procedure!
I had no choice. If I were to refuse I would never get the chance again. And, even worse, they might have started to pay closer attention to me. To study my actions, question my loyalties, discover what I really am! For my sins, I allowed the shot. When Dr. Eichinger injected the serum, I felt the searing pain for only a moment or two.
Now my status is different - I have greater access and that indicates that they are not onto me. Yet. And now I also have, coursing through my blood, something that Umbrella claims is a simple vaccine.
I am terrified but still I soldier on. Tomorrow with my yellow badge I must get some evidence. I will get evidence of Umbrella's real operation.
Drastic change of status today. Maybe other things have changes too...
I was summoned upstairs and notified that I was to be assigned a yellow security badge tomorrow. This will allow me far greater access. This is only two levels from Blue! This exciting news had barely had a chance to sink in when I was informed that this would require a stop at Dr. Eichinger's for a "tetanus" shot.
It was explained that the production insurance demands that anyone allowed onto the main sets must be inoculated due to all the sharp and dangerous equipment used in the special effects and stuntwork.
I don't believe them! I understand the background check, it's standard on most movie jobs, even though no other production company does such a thorough job as Umbrella. But this requirement - this shot is not Standard Movie Procedure!
I had no choice. If I were to refuse I would never get the chance again. And, even worse, they might have started to pay closer attention to me. To study my actions, question my loyalties, discover what I really am! For my sins, I allowed the shot. When Dr. Eichinger injected the serum, I felt the searing pain for only a moment or two.
Now my status is different - I have greater access and that indicates that they are not onto me. Yet. And now I also have, coursing through my blood, something that Umbrella claims is a simple vaccine.
I am terrified but still I soldier on. Tomorrow with my yellow badge I must get some evidence. I will get evidence of Umbrella's real operation.
Tuesday 9th September 2003.
Whatever it really was, the blood wasn't the worst of it. It was what was in that blood.
Whatever it really was, the blood wasn't the worst of it. It was what was in that blood.
9, Tuesday 2003 – The Taste of Freedom
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Girl%20Hair”
A week in quarantine, Seven days with no human contact other than Dr. Eichinger who entered my room - my cell, every four hours without fail to monitor my progress and give me a booster each and every time. He always asked how I was feeling but carefully evaded any other discussion. He was cautiously evasive when I even tried to learn exactly why I was there.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “GirlHand”
Why. That is something I may never know. I know what they told me but I don't believe them. Of course I had no choice but to pretend to believe. Umbrella have perfected their form of deception just as surely as they have perfected the thousands of products that ubiquitously have become integral parts of all our lives.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Girl_Leye”
This is what they told me: Inside the set. Deep inside as permitted by my new, so-desired, yet wretched yellow security badge I saw just a small amount of the horror that they so embrace.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Girl_Reye”
One of the guards, acting as an Assistant Director called out a warning : "Don't touch the blood - It's hot!"
The blood was everywhere I had never been in a place like that - I had never imagined a place like that. I couldn't avoid it, a single misstep and I brushed against a blood-soaked table. Seconds later I was taken away - told that the stage blood had been contaminated and therefore I was to be isolated for my own protection.
Stage blood. That is not real how can it be contaminated with anything that could cause harm. And, if so, what about the others - those who were covered in blood?
Whatever it really was, the blood wasn't the worst of it. It was what was in that blood - what caused the blood to flow. That was an image that was seared into my mind. And, for every one of those days in isolation, for every waking moment all I could see was that image. That child so young, so innocent, so terrible.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Girl%20Hair”
A week in quarantine, Seven days with no human contact other than Dr. Eichinger who entered my room - my cell, every four hours without fail to monitor my progress and give me a booster each and every time. He always asked how I was feeling but carefully evaded any other discussion. He was cautiously evasive when I even tried to learn exactly why I was there.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “GirlHand”
Why. That is something I may never know. I know what they told me but I don't believe them. Of course I had no choice but to pretend to believe. Umbrella have perfected their form of deception just as surely as they have perfected the thousands of products that ubiquitously have become integral parts of all our lives.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Girl_Leye”
This is what they told me: Inside the set. Deep inside as permitted by my new, so-desired, yet wretched yellow security badge I saw just a small amount of the horror that they so embrace.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Girl_Reye”
One of the guards, acting as an Assistant Director called out a warning : "Don't touch the blood - It's hot!"
The blood was everywhere I had never been in a place like that - I had never imagined a place like that. I couldn't avoid it, a single misstep and I brushed against a blood-soaked table. Seconds later I was taken away - told that the stage blood had been contaminated and therefore I was to be isolated for my own protection.
Stage blood. That is not real how can it be contaminated with anything that could cause harm. And, if so, what about the others - those who were covered in blood?
Whatever it really was, the blood wasn't the worst of it. It was what was in that blood - what caused the blood to flow. That was an image that was seared into my mind. And, for every one of those days in isolation, for every waking moment all I could see was that image. That child so young, so innocent, so terrible.
I wish I had never been given the clearance. Some things are just too terrible to behold.
Thursday 11th September 2003.
And I may never forget this horror!
And I may never forget this horror!
Thursday 11th September 2003 - They Were Ravenous
I knew this could not be human!
Wednesday 17th September 2003.
In the Film Business, unless you're at the top, you learn to take orders. With Umbrella you dare not question those orders!
In the Film Business, unless you're at the top, you learn to take orders. With Umbrella you dare not question those orders!
Wednesday 17th September 2003 - The Crates!
I was part of a convoy last night. We pushed off just after dark, a slew of black cars and one of those ominous, large, black trucks. Nobody told me where we were going or what the mission was. In the film business, unless you’re at the top, you learn to take orders. With the Umbrella Corporation you dare not question those orders. They are the authority. Never question authority.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “roof_guard”
Like a precision military maneuver, we went out into the night. Taking the lead was the Transport Captain, and the rest of the vehicles became an armada surrounding the trucks. Inside my vehicle only the crackle of the walkies could be heard - not a word was spoken until we reached our destination.
High above the heart of the city we arrived at a private rooftop helipad. It was fortress-like, and guarded by heavily armed Umbrella troops. It was eerie and frightening up there on top of the city in the middle of the night - it felt like another world.
Another very dangerous world.
I was part of a convoy last night. We pushed off just after dark, a slew of black cars and one of those ominous, large, black trucks. Nobody told me where we were going or what the mission was. In the film business, unless you’re at the top, you learn to take orders. With the Umbrella Corporation you dare not question those orders. They are the authority. Never question authority.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “roof_guard”
Like a precision military maneuver, we went out into the night. Taking the lead was the Transport Captain, and the rest of the vehicles became an armada surrounding the trucks. Inside my vehicle only the crackle of the walkies could be heard - not a word was spoken until we reached our destination.
High above the heart of the city we arrived at a private rooftop helipad. It was fortress-like, and guarded by heavily armed Umbrella troops. It was eerie and frightening up there on top of the city in the middle of the night - it felt like another world.
Another very dangerous world.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilFlightTroops”
Cleverly, Umbrella explains the helicopters flying to and from this rooftop by telling the world it is just for the film. They use the same explanation whenever there's an 'incident', and gunfire ensues.
Our mission was to meet flight 43 - the midnight 'shuttle.' On that flight is Kulzer - 0ne of the most powerful 'suits' in this entire operation. He doesn't bother with the likes of me. For that I am glad. The man has a frightening presence. He exudes a cool, chilling sense of absolute power. There is little doubt that he is on the upper echelons of Umbrella. Like Bolt, this name is only said in hushed and guarded tones.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Evil_Landing”
I discovered that the truck was there to bring carry three huge, black crates. Each made of some sort of anodized metal. Each was welded shut. And each had provisions for ventilation
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Chopper_Kulzer”
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “chopper2”
Whatever was inside was alive!
A hurricane is approaching North America and these crates - whatever is in these crates had been sent out early to beat the storm. We were told the final test would have to happen on the set instead of the lab!
Cleverly, Umbrella explains the helicopters flying to and from this rooftop by telling the world it is just for the film. They use the same explanation whenever there's an 'incident', and gunfire ensues.
Our mission was to meet flight 43 - the midnight 'shuttle.' On that flight is Kulzer - 0ne of the most powerful 'suits' in this entire operation. He doesn't bother with the likes of me. For that I am glad. The man has a frightening presence. He exudes a cool, chilling sense of absolute power. There is little doubt that he is on the upper echelons of Umbrella. Like Bolt, this name is only said in hushed and guarded tones.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Evil_Landing”
I discovered that the truck was there to bring carry three huge, black crates. Each made of some sort of anodized metal. Each was welded shut. And each had provisions for ventilation
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “Chopper_Kulzer”
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “chopper2”
Whatever was inside was alive!
A hurricane is approaching North America and these crates - whatever is in these crates had been sent out early to beat the storm. We were told the final test would have to happen on the set instead of the lab!
This impending storm seems reassuring somehow. I will sleep better knowing there is at least one force more powerful than Umbrella.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “sky4”
Our film crew assisted the Umbrella team as we labored together to load the crates as gently as possible.
Someone reassured us that the contents were sedated, they couldn't even smell us in this state. Kulzer heard this and a thin smile appeared for just an instant as he whispered, "just hope they don't taste you..."
When he said that the Umbrella team, almost to a man, shuddered. I could tell that they knew something about this cargo. Something terrible.
Something that could taste you from inside the crate? There surely is nothing on this earth that could do that. Nothing that should be on this Earth!
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “sky4”
Our film crew assisted the Umbrella team as we labored together to load the crates as gently as possible.
Someone reassured us that the contents were sedated, they couldn't even smell us in this state. Kulzer heard this and a thin smile appeared for just an instant as he whispered, "just hope they don't taste you..."
When he said that the Umbrella team, almost to a man, shuddered. I could tell that they knew something about this cargo. Something terrible.
Something that could taste you from inside the crate? There surely is nothing on this earth that could do that. Nothing that should be on this Earth!
Wednesday 24th September 2003.
Still, the worst is yet to come.
Still, the worst is yet to come.
Wednesday 24th September 2003 - HOME
[Lost image called “strt1”
It has been a long - very long day. The 'First" was out there with a vengeance tonight. He was putting the troops through their paces. Sometimes he treats our crew like they are Umbrella forces. Maybe there is no difference. I believe that at some point in the power chain it will be discovered that we all work for the same, dreaded enterprise.
We are shooting nights now. And it struck me as the greatest irony that we use that term - shooting. Yes, we shoot so much!
I came home through the downtown. It's always struck me as seedy and downbeat. I don't know how Umbrella let it get out of hand like this. Unless this is the way they want it.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “strt2”
USSCMD Note: [Lost image called “strt3”
It seems that Henderson and the R.P.D. could just move in and clean up this town. Of course if the town is really controlled, or owned, by Umbrella then you have to know that Umbrella wants this. That somehow they are using this.
I'm glad I live away from this. The Raven's Gate Bridge makes me feel that I'm a world away from this havoc.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “strt4”
In spite of the hour and the madness on the street this is a quiet night for me. In the lingering hour before the cool gray dawn of autumn I reflect on my Mission. I have seen terrible, unimaginable things and yet I know that the worst is yet to come. I cannot turn back and I don't know how I will summon the courage to go ahead.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “strt5”
What really helps is having allies out there. People like you -- people who care about the devastation that Umbrella can and does bring upon the world. To those who have sent mail to my Code Name: I thank you. Please understand why I can never risk writing back. Still, from what you have told me - what you continue to tell me, I know that my work is not in vain. When I am caught you will carry on the fight.
I hope to bring down Umbrella but if I am only to blaze a trail then I am still doing important work. For I am leading the people to the doorstep of the greatest evil the world has ever seen. And I am telling the people to open their eyes and look.
What you will see is the horror that I have survived.
So far…
[Lost image called “strt1”
It has been a long - very long day. The 'First" was out there with a vengeance tonight. He was putting the troops through their paces. Sometimes he treats our crew like they are Umbrella forces. Maybe there is no difference. I believe that at some point in the power chain it will be discovered that we all work for the same, dreaded enterprise.
We are shooting nights now. And it struck me as the greatest irony that we use that term - shooting. Yes, we shoot so much!
I came home through the downtown. It's always struck me as seedy and downbeat. I don't know how Umbrella let it get out of hand like this. Unless this is the way they want it.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “strt2”
USSCMD Note: [Lost image called “strt3”
It seems that Henderson and the R.P.D. could just move in and clean up this town. Of course if the town is really controlled, or owned, by Umbrella then you have to know that Umbrella wants this. That somehow they are using this.
I'm glad I live away from this. The Raven's Gate Bridge makes me feel that I'm a world away from this havoc.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “strt4”
In spite of the hour and the madness on the street this is a quiet night for me. In the lingering hour before the cool gray dawn of autumn I reflect on my Mission. I have seen terrible, unimaginable things and yet I know that the worst is yet to come. I cannot turn back and I don't know how I will summon the courage to go ahead.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “strt5”
What really helps is having allies out there. People like you -- people who care about the devastation that Umbrella can and does bring upon the world. To those who have sent mail to my Code Name: I thank you. Please understand why I can never risk writing back. Still, from what you have told me - what you continue to tell me, I know that my work is not in vain. When I am caught you will carry on the fight.
I hope to bring down Umbrella but if I am only to blaze a trail then I am still doing important work. For I am leading the people to the doorstep of the greatest evil the world has ever seen. And I am telling the people to open their eyes and look.
What you will see is the horror that I have survived.
So far…
Tuesday, 30th September 2003.
The meeting was (we were told) organized to present some new technological advances for this "movie".
The meeting was (we were told) organized to present some new technological advances for this "movie".
Friday, 19th September 2003 A TERRIBLE DEVELOPMENT
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShell3”
I had no idea the danger so great!
A special meeting was held today with heads of the production's Design and Development team. Of course this is just another cover for Umbrella's ever-so-dangerous Research Department.
The meeting was (we were told) organized to present some new technological advances for this "movie". That was all that the regular crew were ever told about this.
The session was held on the Executive Level. There, the conference rooms are equipped with the absolute state-of-the-art in computerized presentation facilities, absolute security, and Level 3 anti-contamination systems. I noted that I was kept far from that in another quadrant of the Umbrella Production Facility. To be expected, after all I am still just a yellow-badge.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShell2”
Even away from the meeting one could feel the effects. Tension cut through the crew like a surgeon's scalpel through the flesh of his sleeping subject. It was eerie on the set.
The conference lasted two hours and twenty-six minutes, exactly. I know this because several of the group came into the lunchroom and we obediently stepped aside - these people would never wait even a moment behind any of us. It is so strange - for all the terrible things that these people perfect, all the horrors that they have brought to light, these people seem quaintly amused by novelty of crew lunch. They are actually amused by the idea of dining amongst us. Surely they would be equally amused by the idea of using any one of us as their test subjects as well.
I could not eat. I sat though lunch fighting back the awful sickening feeling that comes with the knowledge that I was just feet away from the architects of creations of absolute terror. Vainly I tried to overhear even a snippet of their conversation. Of course, the innocuous music pumped into the room was laced with white noise just to prevent such eavesdropping. At last they left. A clutter of dirty dishes the only proof these men had ever been with us.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShell1”
As I, following proper production protocol, bussed my own dishes away, I spotted an odd item on the table. There, among their lunch-time discards - crumpled napkins, soda cans, crumbs and other bits of food - was one tiny memory chip glinting at me. My heart was pounding! I was suddenly wonderfully, dangerously exhilarated. My mind raced as I tried to figure it out - could this be a trap? Could it be another who, like me is trying to get word to the pubic? Could any of these soulless technicians possibly be so careless as to disregard their extensive Umbrella security training?
I took the risk and maybe I took the bait. Masquerading my motive as an effort to help clear the table's mess, my fingers trembled and palms sweated as I swiped the techno-nugget.
I don't know how I made it though the day. All I could think of was getting home, getting a look at the chip and seeing what - if anything was contained within.
At first look the directory was empty. If it ever contained files they had been erased. My only hope now was that the chip had not been subjected to Umbrella's Secure Data Destruction Technology. A sequence of low-level scans showed clearly that this chip had been once cleaned to Umbrella standards. Just as my hopes began to sink the computer found an aberration - a fragment of an encrypted file had remained on the disk. This is extraordinary. , it can only mean the file had been added after SDDT treatment. I had a head-start, having already cracked the most basic Umbrella procedural encryption - that used for internal documents. Only an hour later, with the use of three processors, I had re-assembled the file to discover a partial, but terrifying image.
The file was a minute part of some sort of test. I don't know what they were testing but I can see it was an instrument of the most absolute brutality. Surely not even Umbrella would unleash a terror like this.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShells1”
I pray this was only a test.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShell3”
I had no idea the danger so great!
A special meeting was held today with heads of the production's Design and Development team. Of course this is just another cover for Umbrella's ever-so-dangerous Research Department.
The meeting was (we were told) organized to present some new technological advances for this "movie". That was all that the regular crew were ever told about this.
The session was held on the Executive Level. There, the conference rooms are equipped with the absolute state-of-the-art in computerized presentation facilities, absolute security, and Level 3 anti-contamination systems. I noted that I was kept far from that in another quadrant of the Umbrella Production Facility. To be expected, after all I am still just a yellow-badge.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShell2”
Even away from the meeting one could feel the effects. Tension cut through the crew like a surgeon's scalpel through the flesh of his sleeping subject. It was eerie on the set.
The conference lasted two hours and twenty-six minutes, exactly. I know this because several of the group came into the lunchroom and we obediently stepped aside - these people would never wait even a moment behind any of us. It is so strange - for all the terrible things that these people perfect, all the horrors that they have brought to light, these people seem quaintly amused by novelty of crew lunch. They are actually amused by the idea of dining amongst us. Surely they would be equally amused by the idea of using any one of us as their test subjects as well.
I could not eat. I sat though lunch fighting back the awful sickening feeling that comes with the knowledge that I was just feet away from the architects of creations of absolute terror. Vainly I tried to overhear even a snippet of their conversation. Of course, the innocuous music pumped into the room was laced with white noise just to prevent such eavesdropping. At last they left. A clutter of dirty dishes the only proof these men had ever been with us.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShell1”
As I, following proper production protocol, bussed my own dishes away, I spotted an odd item on the table. There, among their lunch-time discards - crumpled napkins, soda cans, crumbs and other bits of food - was one tiny memory chip glinting at me. My heart was pounding! I was suddenly wonderfully, dangerously exhilarated. My mind raced as I tried to figure it out - could this be a trap? Could it be another who, like me is trying to get word to the pubic? Could any of these soulless technicians possibly be so careless as to disregard their extensive Umbrella security training?
I took the risk and maybe I took the bait. Masquerading my motive as an effort to help clear the table's mess, my fingers trembled and palms sweated as I swiped the techno-nugget.
I don't know how I made it though the day. All I could think of was getting home, getting a look at the chip and seeing what - if anything was contained within.
At first look the directory was empty. If it ever contained files they had been erased. My only hope now was that the chip had not been subjected to Umbrella's Secure Data Destruction Technology. A sequence of low-level scans showed clearly that this chip had been once cleaned to Umbrella standards. Just as my hopes began to sink the computer found an aberration - a fragment of an encrypted file had remained on the disk. This is extraordinary. , it can only mean the file had been added after SDDT treatment. I had a head-start, having already cracked the most basic Umbrella procedural encryption - that used for internal documents. Only an hour later, with the use of three processors, I had re-assembled the file to discover a partial, but terrifying image.
The file was a minute part of some sort of test. I don't know what they were testing but I can see it was an instrument of the most absolute brutality. Surely not even Umbrella would unleash a terror like this.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “EvilShells1”
I pray this was only a test.
Monday, 20th October 2003.
I took note of the fact that this time they did call it a "prop".
They called it a weapon!
I took note of the fact that this time they did call it a "prop".
They called it a weapon!
Monday 20th October 2003 - THE SECOND UNIT!
I have been away. For two weeks I have been deeper into this organization than I ever thought possible.
It was so sudden. It was only days after that Executive meeting - the day that I discovered the image of the deadly Umbrella test.
I have been away. For two weeks I have been deeper into this organization than I ever thought possible.
It was so sudden. It was only days after that Executive meeting - the day that I discovered the image of the deadly Umbrella test.
Here's how it happened: Someone was unhappy with the laser system on a 'prop'. Why do they even bother to talk this way? What movie prop requires a laser sight? There must be Corporate rules about keeping up this pretense. A team was dispatched immediately to the Production's Second Unit. Until that moment I had no idea there was another unit in some other location. This is even bigger than I ever dreamed. The Second Unit is far-removed from the main production facilities. We were shipped out like a military operation. I believe we were a military operation.
At night, as usual with this group, we were taken to another Umbrella Heliport. I couldn't believe what I saw - Umbrella had actually taken over City Hall. The rumors, my suspicions must be true - they do actually own the city!
In a floodlit pool of fog and smoke was a massive military cargo chopper. The guard detail silently watched from behind their blackened helmets as we obediently filed onto the airship.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “UmbUBCSHeli”
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “UmbHeliGuard1”
We strapped into the benches that lined the chopper as the cargo door pulled shut, sealing us into the fluorescently-lit glow of the airship's hull. We would stay locked in place until we reached our destination and our captors decided we could leave The windows were covered, preventing any of us from seeing where exactly we were being taken. Our Captain was Carmody, or so it said on the side of the ship. He never came out of the cockpit and we only heard his voice twice. First when he ordered us to strap in for lift-off. You could tell that he was not just comfortable issuing orders, but that he was the type whose orders are always followed. The second time was hours later when his voice cut through the jackhammer rattle of the powerful rotors to warn us that our landing would be rough. Compared to what Umbrella is capable, the landing was nothing. Obviously, we did survive.
Tired, stunned, and dizzy from the flight I stumbled out of the chopper and was immediately ushered into a waiting black Umbrella SUV. I barely had a moment to register the change of weather before I arrived at the Umbrella Production Research Facility, Second Unit.
Here, at the mysterious Second Unit, we worked long and hard days. The tech team refined the laser system. Of course, I was never allowed to see that device. I did manage to catch a few frightening pieces of information. I heard crazed rumors that this was to be attached to some sort of monstrous weapon. I took note of the fact that this time they did call it a prop. They called it a weapon!
At night, as usual with this group, we were taken to another Umbrella Heliport. I couldn't believe what I saw - Umbrella had actually taken over City Hall. The rumors, my suspicions must be true - they do actually own the city!
In a floodlit pool of fog and smoke was a massive military cargo chopper. The guard detail silently watched from behind their blackened helmets as we obediently filed onto the airship.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “UmbUBCSHeli”
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “UmbHeliGuard1”
We strapped into the benches that lined the chopper as the cargo door pulled shut, sealing us into the fluorescently-lit glow of the airship's hull. We would stay locked in place until we reached our destination and our captors decided we could leave The windows were covered, preventing any of us from seeing where exactly we were being taken. Our Captain was Carmody, or so it said on the side of the ship. He never came out of the cockpit and we only heard his voice twice. First when he ordered us to strap in for lift-off. You could tell that he was not just comfortable issuing orders, but that he was the type whose orders are always followed. The second time was hours later when his voice cut through the jackhammer rattle of the powerful rotors to warn us that our landing would be rough. Compared to what Umbrella is capable, the landing was nothing. Obviously, we did survive.
Tired, stunned, and dizzy from the flight I stumbled out of the chopper and was immediately ushered into a waiting black Umbrella SUV. I barely had a moment to register the change of weather before I arrived at the Umbrella Production Research Facility, Second Unit.
Here, at the mysterious Second Unit, we worked long and hard days. The tech team refined the laser system. Of course, I was never allowed to see that device. I did manage to catch a few frightening pieces of information. I heard crazed rumors that this was to be attached to some sort of monstrous weapon. I took note of the fact that this time they did call it a prop. They called it a weapon!
I learned more about this weapon, but it was conflicting information. The weapon is said to weigh nearly 100 pounds and I also heard that it was to be held in one hand. Surely there is no member of the Umbrella Forces able to operate a hand-held weapon of this size and weight. It's just an inhuman proportion. Causing me to doubt further the truth of these rumors I heard that it was to be one-handed operation to allow for a rocket-launcher in the other hand. Surely that is too extreme, too brutally violent even for Umbrella.
USSCMD Note: Lost imaged called “EvilDeparts”
I tried hard to come to grips with the fact that my attempts to infiltrate this evil operation was still, at least for now, helping them to carry forth with their gruesome plans. I hope that I can stop them before any of these devices of terror become operational. I could not live knowing that I had helped to spill the blood of any innocent beings.
My mission in mind, I tried to explore this new Umbrella facility. My Main Unit security badge was of no use here - I was assigned a temporary, severely limited "visitor" badge. Security was far more evident here than it had been back at Main. Every hallway was guarded and the security cameras covered the place like a blanket. I worked where I was assigned and slept in the dorms on site. I felt like both a prisoner and an unwilling conspirator.
I hate them all the more for this growing feeling that I am becoming one of them.
USSCMD Note: Lost imaged called “EvilDeparts”
I tried hard to come to grips with the fact that my attempts to infiltrate this evil operation was still, at least for now, helping them to carry forth with their gruesome plans. I hope that I can stop them before any of these devices of terror become operational. I could not live knowing that I had helped to spill the blood of any innocent beings.
My mission in mind, I tried to explore this new Umbrella facility. My Main Unit security badge was of no use here - I was assigned a temporary, severely limited "visitor" badge. Security was far more evident here than it had been back at Main. Every hallway was guarded and the security cameras covered the place like a blanket. I worked where I was assigned and slept in the dorms on site. I felt like both a prisoner and an unwilling conspirator.
I hate them all the more for this growing feeling that I am becoming one of them.
Tuesday 14th November 2003
There had been a few disturbances downtown in Raccoon City so the Umbrella Troops had closed the gates as a security measure.
There had been a few disturbances downtown in Raccoon City so the Umbrella Troops had closed the gates as a security measure.
Wednesday 12th, November - BACK AT HOME
They say that travel broadens the mind. I say it gives a fresh perspective on your old surroundings. I returned from the Second Unit in another well-guarded midnight run in the Umbrella choppers. I may never forget the image of that hulking beast of a machine hovering above us, barely visible as a black, thundering shadow in the night.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB1”
Back at home I felt the change before I saw it. There is something in the air - some sort of near-tangible sense of resolute dread. Maybe I'm being overly dramatic. Or maybe the people are starting to wake up to the truth. Maybe I've just lost all perspective after this journey.
A waiting trio of those so-familiar SUVs took us back to the Umbrella Studio Facilities.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB2”
Though the deeply tinted windows I could see very little in the foggy night. From Umbrella Studios I splurged on a cab ride home. After all, it was so late it that was becoming early for normal people. (Normal, I should smile, it's been a very long time since I have been what any sane person would consider normal.... )
I was pleased by the little things - the grimy yellow of the cab was reassuring and seemed almost like a stark, sunny contrast to the constant darkness of Umbrella. The smell of stale tobacco, sweat, and spilt coffee were reassuringly unpleasant - reassuring because I knew what caused this stench.
Heading home at last, I nearly dozed off. I became alert though when I realized I was being spirited away from the Raven's Gate Bridge. The cabbie reassured me that, in spite of my (heightened) fears, this was not a sudden kidnap attempt. The RPG, he said, was closed for a while. He was strangely evasive about the details so I demanded that he take me there to see for myself.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB4”
We got close to the bridge and what I saw though was not a closure for repair. It was an apocalyptic sea of pathetic humanity, all of them just trying to make their way to the Arklay side. There was just a trickle that passed through he imposing Umbrella gates that have been on this bridge for years - but never before have those gates been closed.
The cabbie said that there had been a few disturbances downtown in Raccoon City so the Umbrella Troops had closed the gates as a security measure. What had happened while I've been away? Is Umbrella finally cleaning up the downtown core? Or, are they just using that as a way to impose stricter measures on the people?
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB5”
I took a picture with the zoom on my camera, not hiding the seemingly innocent fact from the friendly cabbie. He froze and then rushed me back into the car. Nobody in Raccoon City takes pictures of an Umbrella security measure. At least nobody riding in his cab. Thinking of the long walk home in the early hours of the morning I didn't argue.
We veered back and took the less-traveled Arklay Underpass. Even there, Umbrella officials detained us long enough to check my Studio Security Clearance. I was so tired that I didn't even question why this would be suitable ID for a checkpoint. I didn't even think to ask how they knew to ask for the film security badge. was I really that tired from my journey or was some unknown drug taking it's toll on me?
I slept for a few hours - until The Coordinator woke me up, as always, with a call informing me of what time I am to report to work today. This business doesn't let anyone establish normal hours or a normal life. I must be in at noon. I'll have to leave early if the Bridge is still closed.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB6”
I am worried now. Worried that if it stays closed for much longer that someday I may not be allowed to leave the city. Of course that would mean that Umbrella would actually be closing down the city. Even they wouldn't risk the world attention that would come with doing something like that.
Unless they control the media too. Could Umbrella's tentacles possibly reach into the world media? If they do then how will I ever show the world the truth? How can I fight them if they are THAT big?
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGBridge”
How much more could they control? Who else do they own?
They say that travel broadens the mind. I say it gives a fresh perspective on your old surroundings. I returned from the Second Unit in another well-guarded midnight run in the Umbrella choppers. I may never forget the image of that hulking beast of a machine hovering above us, barely visible as a black, thundering shadow in the night.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB1”
Back at home I felt the change before I saw it. There is something in the air - some sort of near-tangible sense of resolute dread. Maybe I'm being overly dramatic. Or maybe the people are starting to wake up to the truth. Maybe I've just lost all perspective after this journey.
A waiting trio of those so-familiar SUVs took us back to the Umbrella Studio Facilities.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB2”
Though the deeply tinted windows I could see very little in the foggy night. From Umbrella Studios I splurged on a cab ride home. After all, it was so late it that was becoming early for normal people. (Normal, I should smile, it's been a very long time since I have been what any sane person would consider normal.... )
I was pleased by the little things - the grimy yellow of the cab was reassuring and seemed almost like a stark, sunny contrast to the constant darkness of Umbrella. The smell of stale tobacco, sweat, and spilt coffee were reassuringly unpleasant - reassuring because I knew what caused this stench.
Heading home at last, I nearly dozed off. I became alert though when I realized I was being spirited away from the Raven's Gate Bridge. The cabbie reassured me that, in spite of my (heightened) fears, this was not a sudden kidnap attempt. The RPG, he said, was closed for a while. He was strangely evasive about the details so I demanded that he take me there to see for myself.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB4”
We got close to the bridge and what I saw though was not a closure for repair. It was an apocalyptic sea of pathetic humanity, all of them just trying to make their way to the Arklay side. There was just a trickle that passed through he imposing Umbrella gates that have been on this bridge for years - but never before have those gates been closed.
The cabbie said that there had been a few disturbances downtown in Raccoon City so the Umbrella Troops had closed the gates as a security measure. What had happened while I've been away? Is Umbrella finally cleaning up the downtown core? Or, are they just using that as a way to impose stricter measures on the people?
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB5”
I took a picture with the zoom on my camera, not hiding the seemingly innocent fact from the friendly cabbie. He froze and then rushed me back into the car. Nobody in Raccoon City takes pictures of an Umbrella security measure. At least nobody riding in his cab. Thinking of the long walk home in the early hours of the morning I didn't argue.
We veered back and took the less-traveled Arklay Underpass. Even there, Umbrella officials detained us long enough to check my Studio Security Clearance. I was so tired that I didn't even question why this would be suitable ID for a checkpoint. I didn't even think to ask how they knew to ask for the film security badge. was I really that tired from my journey or was some unknown drug taking it's toll on me?
I slept for a few hours - until The Coordinator woke me up, as always, with a call informing me of what time I am to report to work today. This business doesn't let anyone establish normal hours or a normal life. I must be in at noon. I'll have to leave early if the Bridge is still closed.
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGB6”
I am worried now. Worried that if it stays closed for much longer that someday I may not be allowed to leave the city. Of course that would mean that Umbrella would actually be closing down the city. Even they wouldn't risk the world attention that would come with doing something like that.
Unless they control the media too. Could Umbrella's tentacles possibly reach into the world media? If they do then how will I ever show the world the truth? How can I fight them if they are THAT big?
USSCMD Note: Lost image called “RGBridge”
How much more could they control? Who else do they own?