Crying Body

A series of powerful earthquakes simultaneously triggered a volcanic catastrophe destroying most cities along with its population. Infrastructure, highways, telephone lines all destroyed. The president proposed a referendum to rebuild the West but was voted down by the East!
Beus lives in the West wearing protective creams and special clothing, but like all the others, is tormented and survives with a lost emotional compass. Their life is controlled by the self-imposed ZooCoo! The Crying Body, a special species that arrived out of nowhere, assists pro-creation and child rearing, has a strong hold on Beus, but the desire to escape this new country, Etiwanda, creeps in.
The myths about the East’s chaotic and cruel existence stops anyone from the treacherous trek east by foot. Can Beus’ journey east break his torment yet accepts even potential death? The ZooCoo said they will capture and punish him if he tries! What’s on the other side of the mountains for him to take such risks?