Armageddon Convenience Store

The Japanese convenience store, or Conbini, is the pinnacle of innovation in the modern world. With over 50,000 locations in Japan alone, customers can purchase not only snacks and drinks, but they provide freshly made lunchboxes as well as hot food, accept payment for household bills, sell tickets to attractions and major events, help customers order online goods, and even ship and receive packages. Conbinis provide sustenance and security to millions of people, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. But what would happen in a time of dire crisis? This is the story of one humble Conbini, unremarkable amongst thousands of other stores, but destined to become a beacon of light and hope to a world plunged into darkness and despair. It is the tale of humanity’s last stand, as told by the hapless loser stuck working the night shift. [Winner in the April 2025 Writathon]