The Dead War Series (Book 1): Good Intentions Read Free Page A

12-19 may be dying, we still need to study the length of time it takes for the ape to die. As a matter of fact, we should inject another specimen… perhaps 04-16 to see how long it takes them to die without the aid of VH-32 and VH-12.”
    “I’m not going to subject another animal to the whims of our own errors or curiosity,” Vincent protested.
    “We're scientists, Dr. Masterson. Acting on our curiosity is in our blood,” Dr. Henrick countered.
    “That may be, but I'm going to disagree with that plan.  We need to figure out how to save the one that’s already dying before we condemn another to death simply to satisfy your morbid curiosity ,” Vincent snapped.
    Dr. Henrick practically snarled at the insult. “It’s not my 'morbid curiosity' as you’ve incorrectly stated that is behind my motivation. We don’t know what compound VH-0 is. All we know is that it’s powerful and unlike anything else on the face of this earth. Where did it come from? Was it extracted from a plant of some sort? Did it come from a human? We need to study the RTX solution if for nothing more than a weapon we can have against the VH-0.”
    Vincent didn’t say anything for a while as he thought about what Dr. Henrick proposed. It wasn’t a bad idea. Truth was, what they didn't know about the VH-0 compound could set them back further. Vincent often speculated about the origin of the compound, as did the other scientists. Where did it come from? That was the big question. What if it did come from a human with a rare blood disease—a rare blood disease that seemed to be the cure to every single ailment known to man and could also drive you crazy or kill you or both. Would it be such a bad thing to have a counter to this unknown substance? He looked at his fellow scientist, Dr.  Pierce, for his opinion.
    Philip shrugged a shoulder. “He’s got a point. But more importantly, since this stuff is so addictive maybe we can work with the RTX-52 compound to dilute the addictive properties in the base VH-0 solution?”
    Dr. Henrick pointed at Dr. Pierce. “Exactly. For all we know this may be some new drug that’s already out on the streets. Or if it’s not out already, it may very well be soon. It’s going to need a detox chemical to counter its effects.”
    “One that doesn't kill the patient,” Dr. Philip added. “Or drive it insane.”
    “Look, what you two suggest makes sense. But for now, let’s focus on what the funding is actually paying for. The government wants us to come up with a solution that can give its soldiers superhuman abilities. They’re looking for something that will increase the healing process, as well as their speed, strength, stamina, and heighten their senses and cognitive reasoning. So far, all we have is a highly addictive drug that can heal diseases and injuries, but it leaves the subject highly irrational and out of control,” Vincent said, wanting to get everyone back on task.
    “At least we've made some breakthroughs. The subjects aren't dying anymore,” Dr. Henrick stated flatly.
    “That, and the VH-0 solution and all its derivatives have proven to be too strong,” Vincent said.
    “We need to figure out just what the hell we are missing.” Dr. Henrick scratched his head with the tip of his ink pen as he pondered.
    “Very well. Let’s get back to work then,” Dr. Philip said, walking back to his desk.
    Vincent looked at Dr. Henrick. “Anything else?”
    “Of course not, you’re the lead scientist on this project. I follow your orders,” Dr. Henrick replied with more derision in his tone than necessary.
    Vincent’s brow creased. “If you have a problem working for me, Dr. Henrick, I’m sure other arrangements can be made. SciTech does have positions available on Level One.”
    Dr. Henrick jerked with the mention of a possible demotion. Level One was for the scientist whose main focus was maintaining proper plant growth. The study of different grades of soil was their thing, it