Like the other before me I agree this is a very interesting start to the story. It helps that we don't get much visuals besides the color of the background, because it allows the readers to form what they think the monster looks like in their head. At least that's what I did. And I'm also thinking on what kind of an apocalypse this is! I don't know if it's an apocalypse, but the vibes make me think it is, kinda like a quiet place sorta deal. Which begs the question, what are the conditions for the mutations? Or are there wendigo(?) type creatures that can consume the people and take their voices? Looking forward to seeing how the story goes if you decide on continuing it!