Looming without warning, the thick odorous wave of death swept across their world. Bodies exploded and pieces were washed away. Millions lost their lives, as their most powerful weapons were rendered useless in a matter of seconds.

No one wept.

If ever life seemed insignificant, it was at that moment. 

The survivors crept to remote regions of their universe without speaking. It would take time. But one day, they would regain their strength and multiply . . . filling the earth once more. The day would come. Revenge would be theirs.

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Karen replaced the tube of hand sanitizer in the glove box and smiled at her husband. "They sure make this stuff smell good these days," she sighed, rubbing her hands together until the gel absorbed into her skin.  

"Ah-choo!"
 
"Darn flu bugs," she muttered, and reached for the bottle once more.