“Time is up,” the voice echoed, mechanical.

“It is recommended you run.”

People flooded out of the building and into the streets. Some tripped and were trampled. Some hid trembling in alcoves as desperation thundered past. All while the voice repeated over every loud speaker, through every TV, echoing in every car.

“Time is up. It is recommended you run.”

Thousands poured into the streets. A hive mind, with seemingly no destination but out. The bridges out of the city began to crack under the magnitude. Many fled into the forest. Some ran through the fields. A few cowered in despair.

But a handful we’re prepared. They had suspected this, starting about a week ago, when the whispers on the street began. Now they climbed down grates and slunk through sewage systems, finding safety in the stench. They nodded as their paths met, growing in number as they ran in silence. All while the voice, now muffled, repeated to deserted streets.

“Time is up. It is recommended you run.”