The Protectors

By C. Ryker

The Protectors is about a scientist whose name is Ryker Wayne. At a young age, Ryker's mom is diagnosed with cancer, and after a long battle, she succumbs to the effects and dies. Ryker is traumatized by this loss and swears to break the DNA code and cure cancer.

At twelve years old, he enters Harvard Medical School and excels. His acumen is found in chemistry and genetics. Two scientists he befriends, Chen Koo and Anton Karpov, become compatriots with his desire to break the DNA code. Years later, he begins to publish articles explaining his plans to alter the DNA of predators so that the military can use them in clandestine operations. After successfully developing the program for the military, his true love emerges, and he wants to try this on humans. The book takes off from there into a world of nuclear destruction and post-Big Exchange life for those who survive. Upon this scene, Ryker's giant Protectors are introduced. He regulates the growth of boys five to seven years old and turns them into giants between fourteen and fifteen feet tall with all the capabilities to fight predators one-on-one and win.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Fulton Books, Inc.
• Release date: Apr 12, 2022
• ISBN: 9781638600176

Book preview

Introduction

For decades, mankind had embarked on a path of military buildup more than any time in history previous, and this escalation would not bode well for its survival if that might be fully unleashed. However, as fate would have it, on January 1, 2073, the nuclear holocaust that began wiped out everything but a few small cities on each continent. This onslaught destroyed massive segments of humanity, flora, and fauna of planet earth. The aftermath of this devastation left deadly radiation zones in many areas where the bodies of the dead could not be buried. Onerous smells wafted through the air for months afterward, keeping the survivors constantly aware of the horror that was now their existence. Constant precautions were needed with contaminated water and air, providing ample opportunity for life-ending infections.

Due to the decades of abuse before the destruction, usable medications were nearly nonexistent, and any that could be found were mostly ineffective. Only people with naturally built-up immunity were surviving.

Hundreds of thousands of people eked out an existence in the regions around the designated cities of refuge that survived after the Big Exchange. Over time, the radiation zones began to degrade, and reports of large, aggressive predators in the upper regions of Canada and the United States began to surface daily. These reports gave details of beasts that did not fit the typical characteristics of the bears, lions, and other mammal-type predators. Creatures that were far more intelligent than their predecessors, and killing them proved difficult. What began as a bothersome problem soon became life-threatening to all those who survived the holocaust of nuclear devastation. The animals’ complete lack of fear, added with superior intelligence and greater pack-hunting skills with different species, made life impossible in the small towns. Humans were now the main food source for these predators.

Chapter 1

The Move

Driven from their homes by constant predator attacks, tension was high as this small band of people moved slowly across the barren ground. The wasteland they traveled through was absent of people, and the degraded structures that had been filled with life years before were now vacant. Few cities were left fully intact after the great nuclear devastation. Helena, Montana, was not a target in the nuclear exchange and, by default, became a city of refuge for the region they lived in, and this was their destination. Daylight was fading, and their batteries for their BOVs, (battery-operated vehicles) were running low with a full day of travel behind them. The few weapons, besides the Tasers they had, were inadequate against a foe that could attack with precision and accuracy.

The intercom system crackled to life as John Stone’s voice came over the speakers. Listen up, everyone! It’s getting late, and these rides need more juice, so let’s put up for the night at that mound of rocks and trees up ahead. That looks like our best option for defense.

Stone was the best candidate to head up this move to the city. He was physically strong and possessed leadership skills far beyond his thirty-eight years of age. As he was trained in the secretive, specialized clandestine units of the US military, his many tours in combat-hot zones gave top secret clearance. He was trustworthy and calm under pressure, and these characteristics garnered the respect of this assembly of survivors.

In John’s heart, he pondered his reality and having to move from a stable environment. He was hoping this dark nightmare would change someday sooner rather than later, at least for the sake of his children. Each of these families he looked over had waited till the last day before making the decision to move to the city. Being the only survivors left after the recent predator attacks that decreased the sparse population, they packed what they could take and abandoned their town. John was bound and determined to get them to Helena safely, especially since this was his idea since before the latest predator attacks.

As the caravan came to a stop, he got out and pointed where he wanted each of the BOVs to park, bumper to bumper in a semicircle, with the large jutting mound of rocks and trees behind them as the anchor of protection. The sheer 120-foot precipice overlooking the group gave him confidence in their location. The vehicles maneuvered in synchronized formation. The air was cooling rapidly as the sun’s rays sank over the horizon in a foggy display of purple and pink hues.

John tightened the straps on the back of the BOV that held some of their belongings and checked the trailer they were pulling before he sauntered over. This was our only option, guys and girls, or we could wait to get picked off one by one, he said, looking at each of them as they gathered inside the circle of vehicles to convene.

I have no problem leaving, considering those fucking things ran us out! Bill seethed, tugging at his socks, which had fallen to the edge of his worn boots. His weathered hands showed deep cracks, like hardened desert pack dirt riveted with crevasses from many years of toil in the ground that seldom yielded enough to sustain human life. Hirsute arms looked more gorilla than human, though rolled-up sleeves to the elbows hid further discovery. Rarely was he seen without a flannel shirt, no sleeves, whether it was winter or summer.

Bill! Nessy laughingly scolded while squinting her eyes at him. There are small children around! she urged, looking toward Jenny’s kids. She pulled gray strands of hair out of her face draping them behind her ears. She was a gritty woman with lots of spunk and no shortage of cutting remarks. Worn clothing was not a shame to her though she made sure her buttons were securely fastened at all openings, being the conservative soul, not wanting to show too much flesh. She loved the Lord and did not hold back judgments, whether warranted or not, to anyone she felt needed to be saved from themselves.

Bill cringed, Sorry, Jenny!

That’s okay, Jenny, John’s wife, replied, rocking Paula in her arms. Born into a wealthy family, Jenny, a beautiful brunette woman with an athletic build and competitive spirit, never took her pedigree for anything more than a chance for a better life but not off the backs of her mom and dad. Being an only child, she put herself through college without the aid of her massive trust fund, graduating top in her class. Her upbringing to believe in God bolstered her belief that she could defeat any challenge if the Almighty were in her heart and mind. Her parents were surprised when she met John, who was also a believer in God and wanted a career in the military, as opposed to a book-smart man like a doctor or lawyer. He became a veteran of many military deployments with extensive mechanical expertise and a fearless nature. He was well respected as an operator; however, he had a soft side that appealed to her in a kindred way, and she could not resist the desire to be with him no matter the negative questions and opinions of his secretive military past. Against the wishes of her parents, they eloped to avoid any attempts to interfere. Her unbending will was forged early in life. With the loss of her parents, Jenny adopted John’s, and though they could never replace her mom and dad, whom she believed would rise again when Christ returns, she could not have asked for a better family to be a part of.

John continued pointing back from the direction they had come from. Besides, we’re a hundred and two miles from the last attack.

They came out of nowhere, Frank spewed with blue eyes bulging. I mean, one or two we could handle, but hell, they overwhelmed us!

I think they move from one area to the next, looking for new food sources, and apparently, we happened to live in their newly acquired hunting grounds. Besides, the Geiger counters showed a continued decrease in the radiation levels fifty miles east of the town. So I guess our force field had run out. John had made his own Geiger counter with scavenged parts and had frequently run tests when he jogged for distance far from where they lived.

Mom! Jenny’s oldest daughter Paula screamed as she awoke out of her dazed state. Jared took my doll! Running around in circles inside the parked BOVs, she and the other six kids expended pent-up energy, chasing each other. The youthful sound of laughter was a respite from the negative funk that wafted through the group.

Boy, you’d best give it back, or I’m gonna bust your ass! Frank yelled, grinning. After losing his wife a few years back from cancer, Frank attempted to raise his son but found his selfish way of existence needed to be adjusted to accommodate his kid. He rarely engaged him except to discipline.

Kids! I wish we had half the energy they do, Gilda groaned. She and her two grandchildren were the only surviving members of her family. Her son and daughter-in-law were caught in the inferno of a nuclear hit while on a business trip to buy farming equipment in Boise, Idaho. The diner she and her husband ran shut down two years back for lack of customers, and eventually their finances evaporated. Her husband had left her for a younger woman, and her loneliness was a plodding existence. No men, no time, and no life meant her decision to move was something she had been ready for.

Shaking the dust off, Eric, the youngest man of the group, broke into the conversation as he ambled up. An able-bodied man in his twenties, Eric has lettered for football and a chance for a scholarship faded as global conflicts shut down the school districts via the nuclear bombs fell. I know we all agreed to try and forget the past, but shit! Every damn thing we had as modern people has been wiped out because some dickheads thought they would flex their nuclear muscle. Hell, how many people have committed suicide or died from the disease since everything got fucked up? There is nobody my age, so I think the move to the city will greatly increase my chance of finding a woman. They all laughed hard but nervously.

Eric…there isn’t one person in this group that does not agonize, grieve, and downright hurl over the hell we’ve been through, Eric’s Aunt Betty consoled. So when we get to Helena, you can troll the singles market. Her voice trailed off as she looked at the hazy skyline growing dimmer.

I guess the shitty part of it all. I mean, all this real estate is open for claiming since the vacancies. Townsend grinned. Hell, we’ve passed at least four towns that used to have people in them, he murmured. Never married, he was an experienced real estate developer and had a knack for overlooking the humanitarian aspect while going straight for the capitalistic jugular. Though a millionaire before the war, his real estate holdings were worthless, and he found himself out of options.

Well, since they left, I’d say they’re the smart ones. There’s nothin’ to live for out here…no stores, fire departments…nothing. And farming is not always producing enough to feed us and make a profit, Nadine added.

Doug, who was a certified mechanic, spoke while wiping grease off his hands. I don’t think mine’s gonna make it much further. In Dickinson, North Dakota, he was successful with his own repair shop till the devastation hit, and his business slowly dried up as survivors fled. Along with John and the few other men, they put a plan together to head to Helena. He made a BOV from spare parts using solar panels from the high school.

What’s wrong? Eric asked.

Well, the gears have some teeth sheared off, and they’re barely grabbing. The thing lurches like a wild buck, he drawled.

I’ve got what you need, Doug! Jeanne hollered from across the dry, dusty circle.

Well, I’ll be…saved by a woman again, he chuckled as he jogged over to her.

John pondered what everyone was saying and shifting around said. You know, Betty, you’re right in one way, but there’s another side.

Please tell me what the hell it is! she pleaded.

Out here, he said with a sweep of his hand, we have our freedom. I know it’s lonely, but we survived as a community, God willing, considering no nukes fell close enough to severely alter our way of life. We can still grow our own food and raise some cattle. It’s hard as hell, but we’ve done it. When Helena officials came and offered us housing in the city, we all made the decision to stay put and make it.

Gilda interjected, True, but the offer was not as good as it is now that things have gotten worse!

True…and after the loss of so many people to disease, suicide, just plain old dyin’ normal, and now predators, we have no other choice. This move to the city is a decision based solely on survival. Jenny and I prayer very hard for an answer, and I believe we got the best direction. Most of us have family or friends in the city, so it won’t be as challenging. My brother Jesse said the whole region is in turmoil from these predator attacks!

John is right, Jenny added. We have to make this move, considering the loss of so many people lately. Nodding, everyone agreed.

Hey, Frank, John said as he stood and stretched. Grunt, his Rottweiler, sat up with him. How many guns did you say you have?

Well, I have the two you have for arms. Everyone laughed at John’s chagrin, given his distinct musculature. I’ve got one shotgun and three SKS semiautomatics and a handgun. Jared lost my other shotgun, and I got that old grenade launcher. I’m not even sure if it works. Hell, it’ll probably kill me before it does anything else, he chuckled. It’s a damned shame that it’s illegal to have any firearms, he added.

If it hadn’t been for all the weapons in the first place, this planet wouldn’t be in the shape it’s in, Gilda chided. I remember hearing ’bout that damn promise of nuclear parity and then look what happened. Ole Russia and Iran busted us a new one! Our jerkwad president didn’t see that one coming!

I know, I know, but come on. Just because the big one happened doesn’t mean we should have to go around defenseless against all the shit we have to deal with now!

Agitated, Bill stood up and pointed around the circle. Now I can see both sides of this one. I mean, heck, when I lived in Philly years ago, things got so bad, you couldn’t go to the grocery store without keeping a gun, or knife, or something on ya. Me and Linda, God rest her soul, he said, making the sign of the cross, had to move out of the city, and north is where we found peace. I guess that’s good since Philly was wiped out! His voice trailed off.

I think the law serves a good purpose. It definitely puts a deterrent on having guns. You all remember Jimmy? Everyone shook their heads. He was executed for running guns a couple of years back. John held his tongue after saying this for a moment, to not tilt the conversation in his favor. He had thought about the pros and cons of weapons, and rest assured, he would rather have them than not. Most in the group agreed in favor of weapons, especially since the predators had invaded their area.

True, John, but I don’t think they are as strict anymore. Hell, that was right after the air settled from the Big Exchange, and everyone was pretty hot about enforcing it, Townsend added.

The rest of us need to check our Tasers to make sure they’re charged and ready to go. I hope those things don’t come around tonight since we’re farther from their new hunting grounds.

You mean our homes! Bill yelled from across the circle as he ran to his BOV to get his guns. The circle disbanded, and Tasers were plugged in. Knives, swords, spears, or any weapon-like objects to defend themselves against man or beast were readied. It was not just predators they worried about but marauding bands of thugs and murderers intent on scavenging any loot they could take from anyone too weak to resist. These bands had recently disappeared about the same time as the arrival of the predators. This assemblage of survivors did not know the predators had annihilated all living things for miles around their area.

*****

Other eyes were watching them taking in every detail of their strengths and weaknesses. The predators were hungry and dim moonlight would afford the best opportunity for a coordinated attack that would confuse the humans.

*****

John sat watch over the group as a full moon filtered through the clouds. He checked the settings on his Taser, a rifle-like device with a large high-powered battery pack that was the butt of the potent weapon. This type of Taser could kill or stun a predator, but if set to kill, the battery would drain faster, and the larger predators would only be slowed down. The pistol Taser did not pack the same punch as the larger weapon but could stun smaller predators enough to use other implements to finish them off. Advancements in battery technology gave these weapons hours of heavy use in combat situations.

The group finally settled down after a few hours to some intermittent snoring and heavy breathing. With his large Rottweiler, Grunt, on full alert, John allowed his mind to wander back to the years prior to the nuclear annihilation and why God would allow such a horrific event. It was hard to remember when the land was not so desolate and barren, when trees were everywhere and food could still be grown without the labor-intensive effort. He missed the smell of moist dirt, planting, harvesting, and cleaner air. His thoughts were arrested, though, when a deep rumble erupted from Grunt; ears were perked with erect nape hair. John knew something was up.

What’s wrong, boy? What’s do you see? he whispered as he peered into the distant shadows. Hunching closer to Grunt, he kneeled on one knee and continued to scan the moonlit landscape. As his eyes began to focus, he caught the form of a large predator moving toward them and immediately shouted with a powerful deep voice, Predators! Get your weapons!

Weary eyes opened quickly, and a desperate scramble ensued to take positions. Weapons were firmly grasped, and hearts raced as more predators began to appear, their large bodies hulking across the eerie landscape, darting back and forth to avoid being targeted. The Tasers and the limited gun supply seemed woefully inadequate, considering the size and number of these fearsome beasts.

Guns could do minimal damage against these predators unless accurately aimed. Only multiple rounds could slow the creatures down. The ninety-foot distance these Tasers could reach seemed short, and many predators had shown up for the feast. Eerie shards of electricity arched into the night as the powerful Tasers slammed into the bodies of the predators coming too close, temporarily stopping their swift advances and lighting up the landscape in flashes.

Only short bursts! John shouted. Don’t burn ’em out! He gripped his Taser and pulled the trigger nailing his targets. Frank was dropping some of the smaller ones with his SKS.

No screams of fright were heard from these people. Everyone in this group had a task to do to preserve life, and they were hell-bent on accomplishing this.

The beasts had lost the element of surprise, so the attack became a game of chess, each move probing the line of defense to test it for weaknesses. Using rock formations in the open as cover, one would charge in, and then another, each time bringing a quick response from the humans. Soon those stinging Tasers would run out—then they could eat.

As the heat of the battle heightened, a bearlion crept carefully, quietly toward the rear of the fight, strategically placing itself just close enough to a perimeter BOV wedged against the hillside. Its sharpened claws extended to snatch away an easy meal.

Just as Bill, the oldest in the group, reached down to pick up his recharged Taser, the large beast struck violently. Powerful claws closed around his head and quickly pulled him under the BOV.

John! Jenny shouted in fright. They got Bill!

Lightning fast, John turned his Taser on full and leaped over the BOV and raced toward the predator that was making a hasty retreat floppily dragging Bill’s twitching body as it went. He fired his Taser directly into its chest, stunning it. As it fell, it released Bill from its jaws, and John quickly thrust his spear into its heart, ending its life. But now, he was in danger himself. Gingerly cradling Bill in his arms, he quickly covered the short distance back to the perimeter.

Bill’s helmet had partially shielded him from the crushing jaws of death but could not protect his neck from the teeth that gouged deep furrows that pooled with sticky blood flowing from his carotid arteries.

Back in the circle, he laid Bill gently in front of Jenny, then grabbed his Taser and took his position. Suddenly a large wolflike predator leaped over the BOVs into the center of the circle, eyes glaring with venomous hate! Pots and pans near the fire scattered from the impact. Screaming in stark fright, Eric’s girlfriend Tina, who was closest to the devilish beast, froze in fear. Tina! Eric wailed from across the circle as he ran to her rescue.

Crouching, it began to spring simultaneously, even as the boom from the grenade launcher sounded, knocking the creature over with the force of the projectile. A dull explosion from inside the beast could be heard as its body convulsed momentarily before dying as its innards oozed onto the ground.

Good shot, Nessy! Frank whooped while she stared at the heavy grenade launcher in her hands. The thrill and shock were intermingled, and she loved the sensation of how it felt. A toothy smile spread across her face.

Tina, who had recovered from her shock, quickly came over to Nessy. Thank you so much…you saved my life, she said, her hands trembling, pointing to the carcass of the animal.

Oh, honey, I don’t know what happened, it just fired, and there, that poor thing is dead now. She grinned, pointing to the carcass. Eric quickly consoled both with a heartfelt hug and then turned to take his position again.

Hey, Nessy, not bad for an old lady over eighty," Mr. Townsend crooned.

Well, you’re not that young yourself, you know, she retorted.

*****

The bearlion’s keen senses detected a human sound, and it reached with its long limbs between the boulders under the BOV, finding the sleeping bag. As it heard a muffled cry from within, saliva started to be secreted from its long, razor-sharp teeth. Swiftly it sped away from the painful Tasers with the sleeping bag dangling from its jaws, intent on filling its famished belly.

Tears welled in Jenny’s eyes as she wiped the blood from the corners of Bill’s mouth. She tried to make him as comfortable as possible as a deep sadness came over her watching the loss of another life. Gently laying his head down and covering him, she quickly did a head count of all the children—Paula was missing. Suddenly fear replaced sadness with a nauseating feeling causing her to shudder. John! Have you seen Paula? Jenny yelled, her voice trembling.

Through the noise of the battle, John hollered, Yeah, she’s under the BOV!

I told her to stay inside the BOV, she said aloud. Quickly covering the short distance, she frantically, desperately scattered articles everywhere but could not find her or her sleeping bag. The other women began a frenzied search as well but saw no sign of her. With horror, Jenny realized Paula was gone. Screaming at the top of her lungs, she shrieked, John, they got Paula!

His eyes wide in horror, he ran toward her with Jagger right behind him and carefully asked as he held her shoulders and stared intently into her eyes, Have you checked every single place?

John, we’ve looked everywhere…she’s gone! She sobbed uncontrollably. Jenny immediately kneeled and prayed as hard as she could that God would protect her baby; her uncontrollable sobs blurred her words.

His heart froze in his chest. He knew that look in Jenny’s eyes and trusted her more than life itself. He knew she would not leave a stone unturned to find their children, and in that moment, cold sweat broke out on his skin, and his flesh began to crawl with the thought that his daughter had been taken by one of these creatures. A predator, at that same moment, charged toward the BOV he was behind. Instantly aiming, he hit the bear-like beast with his Taser on full, stunning it long enough to wreak some vengeance. Like greased lightning, he rolled over the perimeter vehicle and repeatedly stabbed the heart of the quivering beast that was on the ground, prone from the Taser blast.

You murderers! You fucking murderers! he bellowed. Frank and Eric rushed and pulled him back to safety. Sobbing, he cried with clenched fists. My baby, my precious baby!

*****

Attracted to the sounds of battle, GH surveyed the scene from a short distance away. This giant was visually and emotionally human yet had beastlike attributes throughout. His father had taught him to defend those that were weaker, and though he had come to hunt the predators, he quickly found they were threatening this small group of people. Starting toward the fight, he caught the hulking body of a bearlion running away with something in its mouth. Leaping from the hillside, in strides faster than a thoroughbred, he covered the distance swiftly. Not far from the battle scene, he caught up.

Realizing he was being followed, the bearlion suddenly stopped and wheeled about, dropping the sleeping bag from its jaws and angrily roaring. As it looked upon this incredible human, its fury rose, for who would dare to take this catch from him. Though the bearlion was a beast, its intelligence and physicality far surpassed his hereditary predecessors, and seeing this giant standing at a full height of over fifteen feet and weighing well over fifteen hundred pounds, it was surprised. This human was imposing indeed, with muscles of corded steel and eyes that betrayed no fear. The bearlion knew this would be no easy kill like other pitiful humans he had destroyed and eaten before. A growl reverberated loudly through his chest, eyes dilated in intense anger, with muscles contracting it prepared to do carnal damage.

Drawing the bearlion away from the bundle, GH crouched as he circled, looking for an opening to make his attack. In an instant, he saw it, and with blinding speed, he moved faster than the bearlion could react and leaped onto the back of the beast. Using his powerful muscles, he drove his fists like rapid gunfire into its body and head. Searing, hot bursts of pain careened through the beast as bones began to shatter under the terrific force of thunderous hits. Lashing out with its sharpened claws, it repeatedly tried to tear this large human off its back, spinning around to shred him.

Rearing up on its hind legs for a better point of attack, GH took advantage and instantly reacted. Blocking the beast’s fierce blows, he maneuvered to its front and locked on to its body with his viselike thighs. Facing the jaws of death only inches from his face and the awful stench of its breath, he grasped its upper jaw and bent its head backward, his rippling muscles knotting with the effort. Slowly the bearlion felt its limbs go numb; its flailing stopped as it stumbled, teetering on collapse, then GH quickly spun to its backside, bodily picking the immense creature above his head. Standing to his full height, he held the twitching beast. With massive hands partially around the beast’s neck and lower midriff, he jerked downward, quickly snapping its thick spine like a toothpick. Flinging the beast to the ground with a dull thud, he quickly scooped up the bundle and raced back to the battle.

Mounting the steep hill above the encampment, GH surveyed the scene below then roared a voluminous cry of terror and warning that froze both predator and human alike.

*****

Jenny recognized the sleeping bag in the hand of this enormous being and instinctively knew her child was alive. John! she cried as she pointed! John could hear the muffled cry of his daughter. Both were in awe of the size of this gargantuan anomaly above them. Relief overtook him as his knees became weak. For a moment, he forgot the battle of life and death they had been waging.

The predators, having suffered too many losses, melted into the night. Leaping from the top of the precipice one hundred and twenty feet above them, GH landed with a thud that shook the ground, only squatting slightly to absorb the impact. The entire group stood in awe as he approached them. Gingerly placing the sleeping bag with Paula into the arms of Jenny, he smiled as she gawked in wonder. Even John, a large man at six feet eight, was dwarfed by the size of this gigantic human well over twice his height. Without a word, GH suddenly turned leaped over the BOV in the direction of the retreating predators.

Chapter 2

The Program

Breakthroughs in genetic research in the latter parts of the twenty-first century saw quantum leaps in man’s ability to alter the living organisms of the earth. Aggressive military involvement in the use of this knowledge was utilized to develop a new type of warrior, a warrior whose instinct was honed to kill more efficiently than humans. Natural-born predators, whose aggression and survival capabilities had been studied for centuries, were now viewed in a completely different light by the upper echelons of those in power.

Armed with a few successful low-level experiments in genetic alterations within the animal kingdom, the top brass in the Pentagon came to certain conclusions. Predators, with their natural abilities to hunt and keen senses, could be used in small clandestine operations where inserting troops would go against stated foreign policies. Genetic altering, therefore, would have to be employed for them to achieve the perfect killing machines. Top secret funding was allocated through various shrouded avenues to not arouse suspicion on Capitol Hill.

This program, though still in the stages of infancy, could not afford even the most distant scrutiny. Every ethical, moral notion of purity for Mother Nature and her creatures would be violated once this program began. The search for a geneticist capable enough to build and direct an operation like this, let alone accept the responsibilities of such an endeavor, got under way immediately.

*****

Doctor Ryker Wayne, an acknowledged top geneticist in his field, had for years published in scientific articles his theories of genetic manipulation. His cause initially was to correct the current gene pool deficiency in the animal kingdom. However, he wanted to delve into greater genetic alterations of animals. In an area that was rife with controversy, his proactive stance in genetic alteration of predators for the military caused an uproar in the scientific fields where he plied his trade. Scorching articles in the most elite publications and internet postings railed against him, and political specialty groups made nonstop assaults attacking his basic premise of genetic manipulation for the sake of scientific advancement. However, his beliefs, no matter how questionable, attracted the military’s attention. The very peers who had disdained his idealistic approach to this field gave him the most begrudging accolades when interviewed by the military liaison’s intent on profiling Ryker Wayne.

Ryker had a confident way about him that many took as arrogance though the opposite was true. He was tall at six feet three and lanky with somewhat of a darker complexion due to his mix of Caucasian, American Indian, and African. His broad grin was set off with gleaming white teeth perfectly aligned, and he smiled as often as the wind blew, not as someone without cares but more so someone who knows what life is about. Coordinated colors showed his concern for appearances, and he spared no expense on shoes that had a shine to them. Though he was poor growing up, his goals were not of simple existence; rather, it was a life packed with open doors, and if closed, he would create them on his own. With prodigious intellect and photographic memory, he knew how to enhance his knowledge with intense study sessions. He put his trust in few people, except for his wife, Norma, and his secretary, Faye, who were his closest confidants along with a few friends in the scientific community.

His office was a hoarder’s mess of seamlessly worthless stacks of paper and manila-colored envelopes skewed at different angles with scribblings on each one. Overloaded file cabinets, sticky notes everywhere, and tall stacks of journals and publications surrounded his desk like midlevel castle walls. Searching through a stack of papers for a note he had written to himself, Ryker was startled when the phone rang; he answered.

Doctor Wayne, I presume? the voice on the other end inquired.

Yes, may I ask who is calling? he mumbled while continuing to sift through the papers and balancing his cellphone on his shoulder.

I am General Paxton from the Pentagon. A long pause stretched out uncomfortably for a moment. Is there any possibility that we can have lunch this afternoon? I have some very important business I would like to discuss with you about your research?

Let me see, Ryker replied as he pushed aside the stacks to find his appointment book. Aw hell, I can’t find it, he muttered. Did you say your name is General Paxton? he asked as he continued to scatter papers everywhere.

That is correct.

Another long pause swelled, and Ryker, already irritated as he continued to search for his appointment book, blurted, What is the reason you need a lunch appointment with me?

His curtness caused Paxton to pause for a moment. This may not be the man, he thought, but undeterred, he continued. Let’s just say that we here at the Pentagon have acquired a healthy taste for your research in the field of genetics…Well, how about it, Doctor. Lunch at twelve thirty? I’ll send a car. I’ve already picked a spot.

That’s fine. He inadvertently tapped the Bluetooth button on his earpiece and ended the call but continued to search.

Faye!

Yes, she answered quickly, entering the doorway.

He looked up at her. Can you cancel any appointments this afternoon? I have a sudden, uh…rather urgent meeting! Damn, where in the hell is it?

What are you looking for? she responded as she bent over his desk, trying to find whatever the missing item was. Faye was a Jersey girl with a quick wit and hardened way of dealing with matters of business. Ryker liked her spunk, but her soft side appealed to Norma, his wife. Both women were friends with each other, though their personalities were somewhat opposites. She was Ryker’s first employee.

Frustrated, he blurted out, That small calendar…uh…appointment book!

It’s right behind you! she said, pointing over his shoulder to the radiator. Spinning around he grabbed it and started to trace the days with his pen. Her eyes followed his movement.

Here it is! Faye! he hollered.

Right here.

He looked up, Oh, sorry! Could you call Doctor Koo and tell him I’ll have to catch him on another day? I have this lunch meeting with a… Pausing, he looked for the name. He found it. General Paxton.

I’ll do that right now.

*****

DC’s traffic in midafternoon made the ten-minute drive to the cafe seemed much longer. Ryker fidgeted in the back seat of the tinted limo, wondering what the meeting was about. Many traffic lights later and some dodgy maneuvering by the driver, they pulled up and Paxton came bounding out of the café, beret wedged tightly on top his crew cut. Military fatigues with shiny black combat boots completed the wardrobe.

Paxton fit well within the circles of the military. Being an astute bridge builder and mender between haggling parties in the Pentagon, he was quickly elevated to the prized position of the top scientific procurement department. As a platoon leader, he had received commendations for valor in the Asian and African regions prior to the Big Exchange and soon made full colonel, then general in a relatively short time. He worked primarily in covert operations for the department, and his security clearance afforded him the opportunity to handle delicate matters given his ability to cut deals with questionable people. His lively step and well-conditioned body did not betray his age.

Paxton firmly grasped Ryker’s as he got out of the limo. So, Doctor Wayne, how was the trip over here? he greeted him with a smile.

I guess as well as could be expected, the traffic was a little dense today, Ryker replied as he peered with curiosity at Paxton over his reading glasses. He made a rapid mental landscape judgment of him. Ryker was a quick read and rarely wrong about first impressions. This man was no slouch in how he dressed. Sharp pressed lines told of a man who could pay attention to minor details—this was important to Ryker.

Stepping into the small cafe, Paxton quickly ushered Ryker to a table in the back. Smoke wafted through the dim lights that hung above the scarred wooden tables from the few patrons in the place, puffing away on cigarettes and a few others weed. The bright sunshine glaring through the large glass windows was broken by the faded letters Bessie’s Cafe, worn by years of neglectful repainting; it blinded anyone who chanced to look out them on a sunny day.

Can I get you gentlemen anything? the tall, distinguished waitress inquired as she sauntered up to the table, creaking the hardwood floor as she stood. General Paxton?

Oh, Ann…um…I’ll have a scotch on the rocks.

And you, sir?

Ryker squinted as he replied, I’ll do water, please.

I’ll be right back with your drinks and get your order. She knew Paxton was not patient with his meals being the frequent patron he was.

Hey, Ann, Paxton interrupted. She paused. Just put this on my account.

No problem.

Do you come here much, Mr. Paxton?

This is one of my favorite spots! Hell, they got the best burgers in DC! Paxton blurted as he pulled out his briefcase and laid it on the table. As the latches were popped, the top slowly opened from the small hydraulic cylinders on the hinges as documents escaped their cramped conditions by spilling out. Doctor Wayne, I’m sure you have many questions about my phone call to you this afternoon. Ryker nodded while adjusting himself on the cracked leather seats. Let me begin by telling you the nature of the Pentagon’s interest in you. We have come to believe, based on your research articles, that the ideas you are proposing, concerning genetic manipulation of, let’s say, God’s handiwork, is not only feasible but possible if given the proper backing. Pulling a mound of papers out of the briefcase, he plopped them down, slightly jarring the thick wooden table.

Here it is in one of your first articles, he said as he sifted through the papers, where you put forth the idea of DNA splicing as a means of altering any animal. We believe we can do this by recreating existing predators for military purposes and, oh, here it is!

I believe that DNA manipulation is the future we must continue to explore, not only for the animal kingdom but for the human race as well, Ryker interjected as he finally found a comfortable spot by scooting further down in the worn cushioned seat. His wallet bulged with phone numbers and business cards, causing his sciatic nerve to light up from the tilted angle. He could live with it for now, though, given the excitement building in him.

Well, let us just concern ourselves with the animal kingdom for now, Doc. Let me ask you why you have not been accepted very well among your own peers?

Ryker hesitated to know his answer could be a quick end to this chance of a lifetime. Let’s just say the American public at large would not understand…nor most of my peers. They would not accept the kind of work or experimentation it would take to see this through!

Oh, I completely agree. That is why some things are better left unsaid, Paxton replied as a smirk creased the edge of his mouth. Let me get right down to the reason why you’re here. I am completely authorized to offer you full funding for the programs you are proposing. Ryker’s mouth hung slightly ajar, stunned at hearing this. The conditions are as follows: a time frame in which hard results are produced, and the most important—utmost secrecy! Senators and congressmen will not know about this program or the details of the funding.

Ryker internally elated as Paxton continued to explain the details. Since leaving Harvard, he had not found an avenue to fulfill his dreams. Paxton continued, You will have the…

Sorry about the delay, Ann said as she gently set the drinks on the table. Have you gentlemen decided what you want to eat?

After ordering their food, they got back to business. As I was saying, Paxton whispered. You will have the authority to choose the people you work with. The only stipulation is that we clear their background first. We cannot take chances with this getting out in the open. The last thing I want to see is some poor sap sitting in front of millions of viewers telling all on some satellite program or internet podcast. Minutes later, Ann brought the sandwiches.

Ryker sat in relative silence as he devoured his meal. His intellectual mind turned over the numerous possibilities as Paxton continued to lay the framework of the program out. He finally stopped and asked, Can you give me some indication as to your interest in my proposal? Paxton said as they finished their meals. He was anxious to see if he had hit any pay dirt.

Wiping his mouth, he looked Paxton in the eye. I will have to give this some thought, Mr. Paxton, because there are many issues I need to work out first.

That’s not a problem. As far as we are concerned, take as much time as you need, and we will set up some more meetings with you to figure out any forthcoming problems and, he said, answer any questions you might have.

I’m sure I will have many questions in the days to follow.

Doctor Wayne, Paxton said as he became serious. I have to say this to you. He weighed his words carefully. You can no longer publish or speak about the issues related to this subject that would in any way jeopardize the program. If this does leak out, I will simply deny we ever met, and you can only guess how fast this program will end, he said while averting his eyes, reluctant of the implied threat.

The sinister look sent a chill up the back of Ryker momentarily. I understand, General. I can assure you that this will go no further than this table. He looked at his watch and spoke. If you don’t mind, I’ll need to hustle along.

Not at all, I need to be going myself, Paxton replied as he wiped mayonnaise from the corner of his mouth. Gulping down his remaining scotch, he quickly scooped his papers together and stuffed them back into the briefcase and slid from the booth. Dropping three twenties on the table for the bill and tip, he paused as he stood. Doc, I think this little venture will work out for the both of us. A big smile spread across his face as he laughed, causing the vein in the center of his forehead to bulge out. Adjusting his beret, he headed for the door.

Oh, I hope so, Ryker replied as he straightened his tweed jacket, trying not to show excitement. As they stepped out onto the sidewalk, a haze in the sky indicating a storm front began to dim the sunlight as a cool breeze broke through the warm air. Both men shook hands and departed.

*****

Numerous meetings were held during the ensuing months, in the utmost secrecy, the finer particulars being hammered out until an agreement was reached. Ryker was to head up the program for the military and chose his own, hand-picked, partners who could pass intricate inspection into every orifice of their personal lives.

Each area of