The Lazarus Protocol

By S.B. Fates

The Lazarus Protocol: A Biopunk Dystopian Thriller

 

In a world where death is a choice, immortality comes at a price.
 

From the masterful storytelling of S.B. Fates comes "The Lazarus Protocol," a thought-provoking and emotionally charged biopunk thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set in a dystopian future where cutting-edge biotechnology has enabled the wealthy elite to conquer death itself, this gripping novel explores the dark underbelly of a society divided by the ultimate privilege.
 

Dr. Mara Kincaid, a brilliant geneticist driven by a passion for helping those in need, finds herself drawn into a web of secrets and lies when she accepts a position at Lazarus Inc., the world's leading biotech corporation. As she delves deeper into the company's groundbreaking longevity research, Mara uncovers a terrifying truth: immortality is not a gift, but a weapon wielded by those in power to control the masses.
 

Caught between her moral convictions and the allure of scientific discovery, Mara must navigate a treacherous landscape of corporate espionage, government conspiracies, and forbidden knowledge. With each revelation, she is forced to confront the very nature of life and death, and the price we are willing to pay for the chance to live forever.
 

But when Mara stumbles upon a secret that threatens to unravel the very fabric of society, she finds herself at the center of a war that will determine the fate of humanity itself. Hunted by those who would silence her, Mara must risk everything to expose the truth and save the world from a future where immortality is the ultimate form of enslavement.
 

Fates weaves a masterful tale of suspense, intrigue, and existential horror, blending cutting-edge science with profound philosophical questions about identity, free will, and the human condition. "The Lazarus Protocol" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged thrill ride that will leave you questioning the very foundations of our existence.
 

Perfect for fans of Margaret Atwood's "Oryx and Crake" and Paolo Bacigalupi's "The Windup Girl," this biopunk masterpiece is a must-read for anyone who dares to confront the terrifying possibilities of our biotechnological future. In a world where the line between life and death has been erased, how far would you go to protect the ones you love? And what would you sacrifice for the chance to live forever?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sean Benoit
• Release date: Apr 13, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224744084

S.B. Fates

Sean Benoit, writing under the pen name S.B. Fates, is a masterful author specializing in the realm of dark fiction. His unique literary style seamlessly weaves together elements of horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, crime, science fiction, and fantasy, creating stories that not only captivate but also challenge the conventional boundaries of these genres. His works are renowned for their complex narratives, richly developed characters, and the ability to transport readers into worlds where the mysterious and the ordinary intertwine. In addition to his literary pursuits, Sean harbors a deep passion for drawing and comic books, engaging in these activities as personal hobbies. This artistic inclination, while separate from his writing, enriches his creative perspective and contributes to the depth and imagination evident in his storytelling. Known as S.B. Fates in the literary world, Sean stands out for his ability to blend a diverse range of elements into his narratives, making him a distinctive voice in the genre of dark fiction. His dedication to exploring and redefining the limits of genre fiction has cemented his status as a notable author in his field.

Book preview

Prelude

Dear Readers,

As an author, I have always been fascinated by the potential of science to shape our future, for better or for worse. In our relentless pursuit of progress, we often forget to ask ourselves the most crucial questions: Just because we can, does it mean we should? What are the consequences of playing God with the building blocks of life itself?

These are the questions that haunted me as I wrote The Lazarus Protocol. In this biopunk dystopian thriller, I wanted to explore a world where the boundaries between life and death have been blurred, where the promise of immortality comes at a price far greater than we could ever imagine.

Through the eyes of Dr. Mara Kincaid, a brilliant geneticist caught in a web of deceit and conspiracy, we witness the terrifying consequences of unchecked scientific ambition. As she navigates a labyrinth of corporate espionage, government secrets, and forbidden knowledge, Mara is forced to confront the very nature of what it means to be human in a world where even death is no longer certain.

But The Lazarus Protocol is more than just a thrilling ride through a dystopian future. It is a deeply philosophical exploration of the nature of identity, free will, and the human condition. It asks us to consider the price we are willing to pay for the chance to live forever and the consequences of a world divided by the ultimate privilege.

As you embark on this journey with Mara, I invite you to reflect on these questions for yourself. In a world where science is advancing at an unprecedented pace, it is more important than ever that we grapple with the ethical implications of our discoveries.

I hope that The Lazarus Protocol will not only entertain you but also challenge you to think deeply about the world we are creating and the legacy we will leave behind. Thank you for joining me on this thought-provoking and thrilling adventure.

Sincerely,

S.B. Fates

Chapter 1: The Price of Immortality

Dr. Mara Kincaid hunched over her workstation, her green eyes intently focused on the genetic data sprawling across the screen. The glow from the monitor illuminated her face, casting shadows that accentuated the determination etched into her delicate features. She had been working tirelessly for hours, driven by an insatiable desire to unravel the mysteries of rare genetic disorders.

The hum of the lab's equipment filled the air, a symphony of cutting-edge technology pushing the boundaries of what was possible. Mara's fingers danced across the keyboard, inputting commands and analyzing the intricate patterns that held the secrets to life itself. She barely noticed the ache in her neck or the way her eyes strained against the harsh light of the screen. There was no room for discomfort when the answers she sought were so tantalizingly close.

As she delved deeper into the labyrinth of genetic code, memories of her mother surfaced unbidden. The woman who had raised her single-handedly, working multiple jobs to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. Mara's heart clenched as she recalled the way her mother's hands had trembled in the final stages of her disease, the light slowly fading from her once-vibrant eyes. It was a cruel reminder of why she had chosen this path, why she pushed herself to the brink of exhaustion day after day.

Mara's thoughts were interrupted by a sudden knock at the door, the sound echoing through the empty lab like a gunshot. She glanced at the clock, frowning when she saw the late hour. Visitors were rare in this secluded corner of the research facility, especially at such an odd time. With a sigh, she pushed herself away from the workstation, wincing as her muscles protested the sudden movement.

As she approached the door, Mara's hand hovered over the handle, a flicker of unease settling in her gut. In a world where biotechnology had advanced far beyond the realm of what was once thought possible, trust was a luxury few could afford. She steeled herself, taking a deep breath before pulling the door open.

The man standing before her was a study in contrasts. His suit was impeccable, tailored to perfection and reeking of wealth and power. But there was something in his eyes, a hunger that made Mara's skin crawl. He smiled, a calculated gesture that didn't quite reach his eyes.

Dr. Kincaid, I presume? His voice was smooth, almost too smooth. Marcus Vogel, from Lazarus Inc. It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person.

Mara's brow furrowed as she shook his proffered hand, the name of his company ringing no bells in her mind. Lazarus Inc.? she repeated, trying to keep the wariness from her tone. I'm afraid I'm not familiar with your company, Mr. Vogel.

She paused, studying him more closely. There was something unsettling about the way he carried himself, a barely-contained energy that set her nerves on edge. What brings you to my lab at this hour?

Marcus chuckled, his blue eyes glinting with a hint of mischief. Please, call me Marcus. And I apologize for the late intrusion, but I simply couldn't wait to discuss a matter of utmost importance with you.

Mara studied him warily, trying to gauge his intentions. In a world where corporate interests often trumped the greater good, she had learned to be cautious of unsolicited offers. She crossed her arms, a defensive posture that did little to ease the tension in her shoulders. And what matter would that be, exactly?

Marcus reached into his suit jacket, the movement smooth and practiced. Mara's heart raced as he produced a sleek, black folder, the Lazarus Inc. logo emblazoned on the front in silver lettering. Lazarus Inc. is at the forefront of biotechnology and medical research, he said, his voice laced with a quiet intensity. We've made groundbreaking advancements in healthcare, and we're always on the lookout for brilliant minds like yours to join our team.

He held out the folder, and Mara hesitated for a moment before taking it. The weight of it surprised her, as if it contained more than just paper and ink. She flipped through the pages, her eyes widening as she scanned the details of the projects outlined within. Gene therapy, nanotechnology, neural implants—the scope and ambition of the work was staggering.

This is... impressive, Marcus, she said, trying to keep the awe from her voice. But why me? I'm just a researcher working on rare genetic disorders. What could I possibly offer a company like Lazarus Inc.?

Marcus leaned forward, his eyes boring into hers. Mara fought the urge to look away, feeling as though he could see straight into her soul. Dr. Kincaid, your work has not gone unnoticed, he said, his voice low and conspiratorial. We believe that your expertise and passion for alleviating suffering align perfectly with our mission. We're offering you a chance to work on a project that could change the course of human history.

Mara's heart pounded in her chest, the weight of his words settling over her like a heavy blanket. She had always dreamed of making a real difference, of using her knowledge and skills to help those in need. But the projects in the folder, as groundbreaking as they were, also carried an undercurrent of danger. The line between healing and playing God was a thin one, and she couldn't shake the feeling that Lazarus Inc. might be more interested in the latter.

She looked up at Marcus, searching his face for any sign of deception. But his expression was unreadable, a mask of calm confidence that betrayed nothing. And what exactly would this project entail? she asked, her voice steady despite the trepidation building in her gut.

Marcus smiled, a slow, predatory grin that sent a shiver down Mara's spine. I can't reveal all the details just yet, he said, his tone almost apologetic. But suffice it to say that it involves pushing the boundaries of what's possible with the human body. Imagine a world where disease and aging are a thing of the past, where we can augment ourselves to reach our full potential. That's the future we're working towards at Lazarus Inc.

Mara felt a thrill of excitement coursing through her veins, mingling with the fear and uncertainty. The opportunity to be part of something so groundbreaking, so revolutionary, was almost too tempting to resist. She looked down at the folder in her hands, the weight of the decision pressing down on her.

When do I start?

THE LAZARUS INC. RESEARCH facility was unlike anything Mara had ever seen. Sleek, modern buildings sprawled across a vast campus, their glass façades glinting in the sunlight. As she followed Marcus through the winding corridors, Mara couldn't help but marvel at the state-of-the-art equipment and the buzz of intellectual energy that filled the air. The sterile scent of disinfectant mingled with the faint hum of machinery, sending a shiver down her spine. She couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't quite right, but the allure of the cutting-edge technology and the promise of groundbreaking discoveries kept her moving forward.

Marcus glanced over his shoulder, his dark eyes glinting with a mixture of excitement and something else Mara couldn't quite place. Welcome to your new home, Dr. Kincaid, he said, his voice smooth as silk. He gestured to a spacious laboratory, its pristine surfaces gleaming under the harsh fluorescent lights. This is where you'll be working on the Lazarus Protocol.

Mara stepped inside, her heart pounding in her chest as she took in the sight before her. The lab was a marvel of cutting-edge technology, with gleaming instruments and high-tech computers lining the walls. She ran her fingers along the smooth surface of a workstation, her mind already racing with the possibilities. What secrets lay hidden within these walls? What breakthroughs might she uncover?

It's incredible, she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper. She turned to face Marcus, her brow furrowed. But what exactly is the Lazarus Protocol? You've been pretty tight-lipped about the details.

Marcus smiled enigmatically, his lips curling into a smirk that sent a chill down Mara's spine. All in good time, Dr. Kincaid. For now, let's introduce you to your new colleagues. He placed a hand on the small of her back, guiding her towards the door. Trust me, you're going to want to meet them.

He led her to a conference room where a group of scientists were engaged in animated discussion. The air was thick with tension, and Mara could sense the undercurrent of competition and ambition that flowed through the room. As they entered, the conversation ceased, and all eyes turned to Mara. She felt like a specimen under a microscope, her every move scrutinized by the brilliant minds before her.

Everyone, I'd like you to meet Dr. Mara Kincaid, the newest member of our team, Marcus announced, his voice cutting through the silence like a knife. Dr. Kincaid, these are some of the brightest minds in the field of biotechnology.

Mara forced a smile, her palms sweating as she stepped forward to greet her new colleagues. It's a pleasure to meet you all, she said, hoping her voice didn't betray her nerves. I'm excited to be a part of such a talented team.

The scientists eyed her warily, their expressions ranging from curious to openly hostile. Mara could feel the weight of their expectations pressing down on her, and she knew she would have to prove herself if she hoped to earn their respect.

We'll see about that, a sharp-featured woman said, her eyes narrowing. The Lazarus Protocol isn't for the faint of heart. She extended a hand, her grip firm and unyielding. Dr. Evelyn Cho, geneticist. I hope you're ready to work harder than you ever have before.

Mara met her gaze unflinchingly, determined to show that she was up for the challenge. I wouldn't be here if I wasn't, she replied, her voice steady.

Next to Evelyn, a man with a friendly smile stepped forward, his hand outstretched. Dr. Javier Guerrero, biomedical engineer, he said, his voice warm and welcoming. It's great to have you on board, Dr. Kincaid. I look forward to working with you.

Mara shook his hand, grateful for the friendly face among the sea of skeptical ones. Thank you, Dr. Guerrero. I'm excited to learn from all of you.

Finally, a woman with piercing blue eyes and a cool demeanor stepped forward, her gaze assessing Mara from head to toe. Dr. Alicia Martinez, she said, her voice crisp and businesslike. I'm the head of the Lazarus Protocol project. I expect nothing less than excellence from my team, Dr. Kincaid. I hope you're prepared to deliver.

Mara met her gaze unflinchingly, her chin lifted in defiance. I am, she said simply, her voice ringing with conviction.

Mara smiled warmly, shaking hands with each of her new colleagues. There was Dr. Evelyn Cho, a brilliant geneticist with a sharp wit and a fierce dedication to her work. Dr. Javier Guerrero, a biomedical engineer with a friendly demeanor and a keen interest in nanomedicine. And finally, Dr. Alicia Martinez, the head of the Lazarus Protocol project, whose piercing gaze and cool demeanor hinted at a woman who demanded nothing less than excellence from her team.

As the introductions were made and the scientists settled into their seats, Marcus cleared his throat. Now that we're all acquainted, let's discuss the purpose of the Lazarus Protocol.

The room fell silent, the only sound the soft hum of the air conditioning. Mara shifted in her seat, her palms damp with anticipation. She glanced around the room, taking in the faces of her new colleagues. Evelyn's sharp features were etched with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism, while Javier leaned forward, his eyes bright with excitement. Alicia sat perfectly still, her gaze fixed on Marcus, her expression unreadable.

Marcus dimmed the lights and activated a large screen at the front of the room. Images of cellular structures and complex molecular diagrams flashed across the display as he began to speak, his voice low and measured.

For centuries, humanity has sought to conquer death, to unravel the secrets of immortality. At Lazarus Inc., we believe that we are on the cusp of achieving that dream. He paused, letting his words sink in. Mara felt a shiver run down her spine, a mixture of exhilaration and trepidation.

But at what cost? Evelyn interjected, her voice sharp. We're talking about playing God here, Marcus. There are ethical considerations we can't ignore.

Marcus held up a hand, his expression placating. I understand your concerns, Evelyn, but the potential benefits far outweigh the risks. Imagine a world where age-related diseases are a thing of the past, where people can live healthy, productive lives well into their second century.

Mara leaned forward, her heart pounding with excitement. The prospect of unlocking the mysteries of life and death was both thrilling and terrifying. She thought of her father, wasting away in a hospital bed, his mind ravaged by Alzheimer's. If the Lazarus Protocol could prevent that kind of suffering, wasn't it worth pursuing?

Our team has been working tirelessly to develop a series of cutting-edge gene therapies and nanomedicines that can significantly extend human lifespan and combat age-related diseases, Marcus continued, his voice growing more animated. We've made remarkable progress, but there is still much work to be done.

He turned to Mara, his eyes glinting with anticipation. Dr. Kincaid, your expertise in genetic disorders will be invaluable in helping us overcome the remaining hurdles. Together, we can push the boundaries of what is possible and usher in a new era for humanity.

Mara swallowed hard, feeling the weight of his words settling on her shoulders. I'm honored to be a part of this groundbreaking work, Marcus, she said, her voice steady. I promise to give it my all.

But even as she spoke, a nagging doubt tugged at the back of her mind. She thought of the rumors she'd heard about Lazarus Inc., whispers of unethical experiments and hidden agendas. She glanced at Alicia, wondering what secrets the woman might be hiding behind her cool exterior.

I have a question, Javier said, breaking the silence. What about the long-term effects of these therapies? Have we considered the potential for unintended consequences down the line?

Marcus waved a hand dismissively. We've conducted extensive safety testing, Javier. The benefits far outweigh any potential risks.

But Mara wasn't so sure. She thought of the countless medical breakthroughs that had gone awry in the past, the unintended consequences that had spiraled out of control. She made a mental note to dig deeper into the Lazarus Protocol's research, to satisfy her own doubts.

As the meeting concluded and the scientists dispersed to their respective labs, Mara couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had begun to creep into her thoughts. The secrecy surrounding the project, the evasive answers from her colleagues when she probed for more details - it all seemed a bit too perfect, too carefully constructed.

But she pushed those doubts aside, determined to focus on the incredible opportunity that lay before her. She threw herself into her research, working tirelessly to unravel the complex mechanisms behind cellular aging and regeneration. The lab became her second home, the hum of the machines and the soft glow of the computer screens her constant companions. Mara lost herself in the intricacies of gene sequences and protein pathways, her mind whirring with possibilities.

Days turned into weeks, and Mara found herself becoming more and more immersed in the Lazarus Protocol. She was making significant progress, uncovering new insights that could potentially revolutionize the field of longevity research. The thrill of discovery coursed through her