La peste

Dr Bernard Rieux discovers a rat's corpse on his landing. He is then contacted by Sylvain Rambert, a journalist from the capital, who is investigating mysterious disappearances that have all been closed without further inquiry.

During a heated meeting at the town hall, Rieux, Laurence and Castel attempt to alert the authorities about a mutating plague bacillus. Their efforts are in vain, as the priority is to avoid alarming the tourists.

The entire town is placed under strict quarantine, marking the first phase of the Darwin plan. Nora, her brother and younger sister seek refuge with Rieux, who asks Lucie Ferrières, the pianist neighbour from the fifth floor, to care for them.

Oumar Diop has initiated a mutiny and taken the prison director hostage. Rambert agrees to negotiate with Diop in exchange for Laurence's release, on the condition that Rieux is allowed to aid the prison survivors.