Meet the characters.

Beth embarks on her narrative at the age of 23, a product of middle-class upbringing amidst the sprawling landscapes of Australia.

Despite the veneer of normalcy, her familial dynamics lacked the nurturing embrace crucial for her emotional fortification, leaving her vulnerable and somewhat sheltered as she ventured into the uncharted terrain of adulthood. With the sudden advent of the pandemic, Beth found herself thrust into the harsh crucible of a post-apocalyptic world, where the rules of survival were stark and unforgiving.

Initially depicted as delicate and unsuspecting, Beth's character arc unfolds as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Through the crucible of adversity, she undergoes a profound transformation, shedding the cocoon of her former self to emerge as a gritty and resourceful survivor.

This evolution is not without its pitfalls, as the harsh realities of existence compel her to prioritise her own survival above all else, leading her down a path tinged with callousness and self-interest. As she navigates the treacherous landscape of a world ravaged by chaos, Beth's journey is a poignant exploration of the complexities of human nature, where the pursuit of survival often comes at the cost of one's humanity.

Austin's journey commences at 27, emerging from the crucible of a working-class upbringing in the heart of Georgia, where the spectre of racial discrimination and economic hardship loomed large.

In the face of adversity, he found solace and purpose in the hallowed halls of the US Army, a decision borne of a desire to carve out a brighter future amidst the shadows of his past. Armed with the resilience forged in the fires of struggle, Austin's path is marked by trials and tribulations, none more profound than the loss of his beloved girlfriend to the initial outbreak. Alongside steadfast comrades Ben and Luis, he embarks on a quest westward, driven by a fervent determination to help Luis reunite with Val and Chantelle, a beacon of hope in a world engulfed by darkness.

Bearing the indelible imprint of his military training, Austin emerges as a paragon of strength and compassion, his leadership tempered by discipline and adaptability. Yet, the weight of responsibility sometimes strains his resolve, as the conflict between collective survival and individual needs threatens to fracture his sense of purpose.

Nevertheless, his unwavering determination remains a guiding light in the tumultuous journey towards survival and redemption.

Ben's story commences at 26. Born and raised in Bend, Oregon, where the rhythms of life were shaped by his father's Navy service and his mother's steadfast presence.

Amidst the challenges of frequent relocations, Ben gleaned early lessons in family unity and collaboration. The strain of his father's absences compelled him to shoulder responsibilities alongside his mother, fostering a sense of maturity beyond his years.

His bond with Austin germinated in high school and flourished through shared military service, reflecting their mutual dedication to duty. While inherently gentle, Ben's protective instincts are swift and fierce, especially when safeguarding his loved ones, typifying his loyalty, courage, and selflessness.

Yet, his unwavering devotion to Beth occasionally clouds his judgement, revealing a vulnerability to impulsive reactions. Throughout the narrative, Ben emerges as a paragon of resilience and sacrifice, driven by an indomitable commitment to preserving the safety and sanctity of his chosen family.

Luis's story begins at 28, growing up amidst the gritty streets of La Perla, Puerto Rico, he was raised in adversity.

Turning to running drugs for survival after his father's blindness and his family's financial struggles, tragedy struck when his parents and brother were killed, prompting Luis and his sister Val to seek refuge in the United States. Joining the US Army, he finds solace but remains haunted by his past.

Dismissive and focused solely on family survival, Luis assumes a paternal role for Chantelle, despite her allegiance to Val. His blunt nature often sparks conflict within the group dynamic, but his unwavering commitment to protecting his loved ones remains steadfast.

Val embarks on her journey at 27, having grown up on the streets of La Perla, Puerto Rico, where survival meant stealing food as her brother, Luis, ran drugs.

Tragedy struck when their family fell victim to cartel violence, propelling them to immigrate to the US. As a nurse, Val faced danger from drug-seeking patients which caused her to internalise her emotions, having the memories of her past be a constant reminder even in her new life. Fostering Chantelle became her way of healing, offering hope where she couldn't save her own family.

Stubborn and blunt, Val's tough exterior hides a caring heart, forged by years of fending for herself. Though she may seem rude, it's a defence mechanism. Her devotion to her brother and Chantelle shines through, driving her actions with love and protection.

Reece's narrative unfolds at the age of 39, a former soldier grappling with the weight of grief and addiction following the loss of his wife.

Found by Austin, Ben, Luis, Val, and Chantelle prior to the story's commencement, Reece carries the burden of his past while wrestling with the demons of alcoholism. His journey is punctuated by the poignant memory of meeting his wife in South Korea during their respective deployments, a serendipitous connection rooted in his father's service in the Navy.

Initially shrouded in silence and bluntness, Reece's emotional landscape is largely internalised, his quiet demeanour masking the tumult within. Yet, amidst the shared trials of survival and companionship, he begins to thaw, gradually revealing glimpses of vulnerability and warmth to those he grows close to.

As he navigates the labyrinth of his trauma, Reece's journey becomes one of redemption and healing, marked by tentative steps towards connection and renewal amidst the ashes of his past.

Chantelle's journey commences at the tender age of 16, having grown up in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, where the shadows of addiction and instability cast a long shadow over her formative years.

Raised by an alcoholic, drug-addicted mother and with no knowledge of her biological father, she navigated a tumultuous path marked by rebellion and strife. Removed from her home and thrust into the unforgiving embrace of the foster care system, Chantelle found herself adrift.

Despite the scars of her upbringing, Chantelle's innate kindness and resilience shines through, nurtured by the unconditional love of Val and the protective shield of Luis. As she grapples with the harsh realities of her world, Chantelle's innocence begins to fade, replaced by a growing resentment towards the injustices that pervade her reality.

Kim Su-ho's narrative begins at the age of 25, a Seoul native who ventured to the US for college, where fate intertwined her path with Craig Cole.

Swiftly embracing her new life, she married Craig and welcomed their daughter Min-ji, affectionately known as MJ. Preferring the nickname Su, she settled into the role of a stay-at-home mother, although harbouring a subtle undercurrent of resentment towards relinquishing her own aspirations for her husband's wishes, strained her familial bonds.

Diagnosed with orthostatic hypotension, Su relies on medication to navigate the complexities of her health. Despite her physical ailment, her demeanour remains remarkably docile and serene, characterised by a quiet strength that belies the turmoil within.

Even in the face of adversity and loss, Su maintains a stoic composure, preferring solitude as she navigates the depths of her grief. However, as time passes, her resolve begins to wane, struggling to find footing amidst the ever-shifting sands of her new reality, a journey fraught with internal conflict and emotional upheaval.

Kim So-min's journey commences at the age of 17, a Seoul native who finds himself thrust into unforeseen circumstances as the pandemic sweeps across the globe.

Visiting his sister Su in the US along with his mother, other sister, and brother-in-law, So-min, fondly known as Sam, becomes an anchor amidst the storm, fostering unity within his family despite the strains of the situation. His prowess as a talented athlete, excelling in soccer and baseball, proves invaluable as he navigates the challenges of their newfound reality, leveraging his physical strength to ensure the safety of his loved ones during their time stranded at a California campsite.

Despite his quiet demeanour, Sam harbours a vibrant and playful side, his infectious energy serving as a beacon of light amidst the darkness. Respectful of his family and their collective journey, he endeavours to uplift spirits and maintain morale during trying times.

Chase's odyssey unfolds at the age of 33, a native of New York whose life was forever altered by the tempest of Hurricane Sandy.

Bereaved by the loss of his mother, he sought solace and purpose within the ranks of the National Guard, his dedication to duty fueled by a fervent love for his country and the newfound camaraderie he found within his unit. Estranged from his absent father, Chase forged ahead, channelling his grief into a steadfast commitment to his new family among the Guard.

Just as the tendrils of the pandemic began to weave their web of chaos, Chase found himself on a journey to Butte, Montana, accompanying his companion Tyler to visit Tyler's father. Amidst the tumult of their travels, Chase's calm and level-headed demeanour emerged as a stabilising force, providing a counterbalance to Tyler's erratic tendencies.

As the pandemic's grip tightened, Chase's unwavering resolve was put to the test as he assumed the role of protector, steadfastly guiding Tyler and Alex southward in a quest for safety amidst the encroaching chaos.

Tyler's journey unfurls at the age of 34, hailing from a conservative enclave in Boise, Idaho, where the rigid confines of his upbringing clashed with the burgeoning realisation of his identity.

Wrestling with his truth during adolescence, Tyler's journey towards self-acceptance culminated in a courageous act of coming out to his parents, met with a spectrum of reactions. While his mother grappled with acceptance, his father's open display of resentment drove Tyler to seek solace and escape within the folds of the National Guard, a decision that propelled him to the bustling streets of New York City, where fate intertwined his path with Chase's.

Stubborn and occasionally prone to irrationality, Tyler's journey towards self-discovery is marked by a delicate balance of resilience and vulnerability. With Chase's steadfast guidance, he navigates the labyrinth of his emotions, learning to temper his impulsive tendencies with a newfound sense of equilibrium.

Protective by nature, Tyler's newfound reconciliation with his father takes precedence amidst the encroaching shadows of the pandemic, his devotion to family serving as a beacon of light amidst the darkness of uncertainty.

Alex's narrative unfolds at the age of 65, a man burdened by the weight of regret and missed opportunities.

Struggling to reconcile his beliefs with his son Tyler's homosexuality, Alex distanced himself, a decision steeped in the shadows of misunderstanding and fear. A former educator in a Christian school, his retirement following his wife's passing marked the onset of a new chapter, one fraught with solitude and longing for connection.

Prompted by the spectre of mortality and a longing for reconciliation, Alex extended an olive branch to Tyler shortly before the pandemic's onset, a tentative gesture towards healing the chasms of their strained relationship.

Despite his kind-hearted nature, Alex's advancing years have rendered him frail, a stark juxtaposition to the robust vigour of his youth. Having weathered the tempests of his own tumultuous past, he has come to terms with his son's sexuality, finding solace in the embrace of acceptance and understanding.

Now reliant on the support of Tyler and Chase for both physical and emotional sustenance, Alex navigates the twilight years of his life with grace, his journey a poignant testament to the enduring power of love and forgiveness.

Marcus's story begins at 43, entrenched in the coastal landscapes of Sacramento and San Francisco, where the echoes of his troubled past reverberate.

A former police officer, his career was derailed by tragedy and recklessness, leading to his dismissal from the SFPD after a fatal incident claimed his partner's life. Embracing the darkness within, Marcus found refuge as a prison guard in the corridors of Pelican Bay State Prison, where corruption thrived and morality withered in the shadows.

Cold and merciless, Marcus's heart had become a barren wasteland, devoid of empathy or compassion. Within the prison's brutal confines, he forged an unholy alliance with Victor, their survival contingent upon exploitation and domination.

Treating others as mere playthings for his amusement, especially women, Marcus revelled in their suffering, his cruelty a twisted reflection of his fractured psyche. Driven by a perverse ideology, Marcus harboured ambitions of reshaping society into a misogynistic dystopia, where men ruled supreme and women existed solely to serve their desires.

Victor's saga unfolds at 36, a product of the gritty streets of Centennial, Oregon, where the siren call of crime beckoned with seductive allure.

From petty transgressions to the depths of gang violence and homicide, his path was a descent into darkness, culminating in the trial for the murder of 16 people in a brutal drug war. Sentenced to multiple life terms, Victor found himself incarcerated within the impenetrable fortress of Pelican Bay State Prison, where the confines of the Security Housing Unit became his home.

Cold and calculating, Victor's psyche bore the scars of his tumultuous past, a hardened shell forged in the crucible of violence and despair. Amidst the chaos of the pandemic, he and Marcus forged an unholy alliance, navigating the treacherous currents of prison riots alongside select corrupt guards and fellow inmates.

Embracing his newfound freedom within the confines of their makeshift society, Victor revelled in the power afforded to him, relishing the opportunity to indulge in cruelty and sadism without restraint. Though he harboured resentment towards Marcus, he begrudgingly appreciated the latitude afforded to him, savouring the perverse pleasure of unrestrained torment and domination.

Sabrina's narrative tale commences at 26, unfurling against the backdrop of Los Angeles' glittering skyline where wealth and privilege painted the canvas of her upbringing.

Born into opulence, with a producer father and a mother whose beauty once graced the runways, Sabrina's youth was a symphony of indulgence and extravagance. However, her trajectory diverged as she fell prey to the temptations of a decadent lifestyle, navigating the turbulent waters of late adolescence and early adulthood amidst the company of a reckless crowd, fueled by the abundance of her trust fund.

Amidst the onset of the pandemic, Sabrina's idyllic existence shattered like glass, marooned on a friend's yacht along California's coast as the world outside descended into chaos. Forced to confront the stark realities of survival, Sabrina's journey took a harrowing turn as she found herself ensnared by the clutches of Marcus and Victor, her once-charmed life now a distant memory amidst the harsh brutality of their reign.

Beneath her cold and calculating exterior smoulders a fierce determination to claw her way back from the abyss, as Sabrina sets her sights on reclaiming a semblance of power and relevance in a world where the rules of luxury have been rewritten by the hand of fate.

Tim's saga commences at 33, uprooted from the serene environs of South Bend, Indiana, to the bustling streets of Seattle, Washington, a decade prior to the pandemic's cataclysmic onset.

In the embrace of this new chapter, he found love and companionship, his heart intertwined with that of his wife, forging a bond that seemed impervious to the trials of fate. After his sister moved in with them shortly before the pandemic to assist in caring for their newborn daughter, tragedy struck as they lost their baby in the initial outbreak.

Haunted by grief and consumed by remorse, Tim's journey southward with his wife and sister was a futile attempt to outrun the spectre of their shattered dreams. Their hopes for respite were dashed as they stumbled into the clutches of Marcus and Victor amid the chaos of Portland, their grief compounded by the cruelty inflicted upon them.

Doctor Horn's narrative commences at 45, amid the tumultuous onset of the pandemic that swept the globe.

A distinguished figure within the medical community, Bryce's expertise as a general medicine attending at the renowned Mayo Clinic in Minnesota positioned him at the forefront of the crisis. On leave from his duties, Bryce ventured to visit his daughter, a fledgling medical student at the UCSF School of Medicine, only to find himself ensnared in a nightmare from which there was no escape.

Haunted by the spectre of tragedy, Bryce's soul bears the weight of unbearable loss and remorse. Despite his valiant efforts to assist when the pandemic struck, fate dealt him a cruel hand, thrusting him into the clutches of Marcus and Victor, where his daughter met a tragic end at the hands of the depraved duo.

Consumed by grief and guilt, Bryce's once-reserved demeanour now hangs heavy with the burden of regret, his spirit broken and his will to live dimmed by the shadows of despair. Drifting through the wreckage of his shattered existence, he grapples with the cruel irony of surviving while feeling as though he has nothing left to live for.

Maureen's journey unfolds at the age of 62, rooted in the sun-drenched landscapes of Sacramento, California, where her gentle demeanour belied a complex inner landscape.

A former high school counsellor and dedicated volunteer at a local community centre, her altruistic endeavours eventually led her to the foreboding confines of Pelican Bay State Prison, where fate intertwined her path with the sinister figures of Marcus and Victor.

Despite their cruel disposition, Marcus and Victor were drawn to Maureen's gentle nature, recognizing the potential utility of her underhanded narcissism in furthering their nefarious agenda amidst the chaos of the pandemic.

Beneath her facade of kindness lays a streak of selfishness, her actions often motivated by a desire to serve her own needs above all else. Though she maintained a veneer of amiability towards others, Maureen's interactions were often tinged with a subtle manipulation aimed at securing personal gain.

Stephanie's journey unfolds at the tender age of 18, amid the chaotic onset of the pandemic that plunged the world into darkness.

Alongside her sister Jennifer, Stephanie embarked on a harrowing quest to locate their father, who was on a business trip in San Francisco when the outbreak erupted. Despite her youth, Stephanie's resilience shone through, a testament to the strength forged in the crucible of adversity.

A recent high school graduate burdened with responsibilities far beyond her years, Stephanie's dreams were deferred as she assumed the mantle of caregiver for her younger sister following the tragic loss of their mother to liver cancer a year before the outbreak.

Fueled by determination and a fierce sense of protectiveness towards Jennifer, Stephanie navigated the treacherous landscape of the pandemic with steely resolve. Her demeanour, marked by blunt honesty and a no-nonsense attitude, often belied the tender heart beneath, a heart scarred by the weight of responsibility and sacrifice.

As she confronted the trials of survival, Stephanie's unwavering resolve served as a beacon of hope amidst the encroaching darkness, a testament to the indomitable spirit of youth in the face of unimaginable hardship.

Jennifer's narrative unfolds at 17, thrust into the tumultuous maelstrom of the pandemic alongside her sister Stephanie as they embarked on a desperate search for their father.

Completing her final year of high school, Jennifer found herself leaning heavily on Stephanie's guidance and support, the absence of their father keenly felt following the tragic loss of their mother to liver cancer a year prior.

Meek and naive, Jennifer's gentle spirit belied the depths of her inner strength, a resilience tempered by the crucible of adversity. As she grappled with the harsh realities of their new world, Jennifer learned to navigate the treacherous terrain of survival, gradually shedding her reliance on others as she forged her own path forward.

Though her journey was fraught with uncertainty and danger, Jennifer's evolution from dependence to independence served as a poignant testament to the transformative power of resilience and adaptability in the face of unimaginable hardship.