Day Three

Jeremy awoke from a fitful nap and felt Samantha's warm body against his. Her breathing was regular except for occasional gasps that indicated her inner despair. He didn't want to wake her, so he remained still. As though she felt his presence, she opened her eyes to look at him -- darkness...

"Jeremy, is our baby going to die?"

"Sweetheart, there are only a few possibilities. There is no question that we have been afflicted, along with most of the population, with some kind of virus. As with all viruses, it will run its course -- hopefully. There is no way that I can plan anything based upon dying. All my thoughts are about keeping you and our baby alive and addressing a totally new civilization. The old infrastructure will never return. I knew that as soon as the power grid went down. The questions that occupy my mind now are all related to what we will do when we regain our sight. It will not be a pretty picture, but as time passes, we can be a happy family."

"Oh, honey. I love you."

There was never a more solid couple than Roy and Betty. Totally devoted to each other and their sons, they had weathered many ups and downs. Although most of their fortune had been built by commercial enterprises, they had donated untold millions of dollars' worth of time and materials to the Habitat for Humanity movement. Jimmy Carter knew them well and often communicated his thanks. They were touchstones for integrity and honesty.

Roy called out to John and Mike:

"Boys, we need to evaluate the situation. There is no returning to the civilization of yesterday. We must start thinking about how we will create the next generation. Both of you have introduced us to your intended wives and I dearly hope you will see them again and have them become family. We cannot plan anything based on death. Since the power grid failed, I know the infrastructure has collapsed. Where we go from here depends upon the regaining of our sight. We must stay alive until that happens or accept that we will remain blind and die a slow death. I choose life."

Evan and Kelly were by the pool, listening to the ship doctor's evaluation:

"Friends, and indeed we are all friends now, my best effort at understanding this catastrophe is that some virus has infected us. As with all viruses, it should run its course and allow us to regain our sight. It is unknown when. Just like the flu virus affects us for a few days, this one may do the same -- but it is totally unknown. Please stay strong and hope for a quick recovery."

Maggie hadn't said much since the dinner table and finally opened up:

"Bob, what can we do?"

"Honey, there is not much we can do until we can see. I know about viruses in computers and it is the same for humans. We have to be patient and stay strong."

No one knew the time; some did not even know what day it was or whether it was daytime or night. It didn't matter.