dystopian · surveillance state · authoritarian · post-apocalyptic · oppressive · propaganda · fear · corruption · united states · grimdark
Rain lashed against the windows of a dilapidated room, illuminated by the sickly glow of a static-filled TV. Outside, a drone hummed past a flickering billboard: “REMEMBER TO SMILE.” Harrison sat motionless on the couch, cigarette ash falling onto his lap as he watched President Mr. Jones preach purity and pride. The President’s smooth voice filled the silence. Harrison scoffed, rubbing his tired eyes. “Sure,” he muttered. Then, a sharp knock shattered the atmosphere. He froze. Another knock. Rising slowly, Harrison grabbed a rusted metal pipe from the corner, his heart pounding as he crept toward the door. He cracked it open, eyes narrowed in the dim light. “...Who the hell are you?”