Genesis War (Genesis Book 3)

by Eliza Green

  ‘And did the human subject agree to your tests?’ said Gilchrist.

  ‘Yes,’ Deighton lied. ‘Susan Bouchard was a lab technician. She understood the risks and was an advocate for the alteration programme.’

  Half of the board members looked unconvinced.

  ‘Oh come on—who in this room wouldn’t jump at the chance to live longer, healthier lives—to live on Exilon 5 in a near indestructible skin?’ Deighton said, half laughing.

  ‘I can’t help asking the same question as Daphne,’ said a liberal. ‘Was there another reason you sent Serena to Exilon 5?’

  It pained Deighton to pretend for these fools who talked too much and delivered on nothing. He imagined squeezing the liberal’s neck just long enough for the life to drain from him.

  ‘Charles?’ said Tanya. Deighton snapped out of his daydream.

  ‘There most certainly is not another reason.’

  Gilchrist said, ‘I have reason to believe that Susan Bouchard did not volunteer for the trials.’

  Deighton squinted at her. What was she playing at? ‘We’ve been taking people since we created the first hybrid, Daphne. What’s your point?’

  ‘Why can’t we ask people for their help, instead of taking them by force?’ she said.

  Tanya seemed intrigued. ‘You mean ask people if they want to be part of the alteration programme to become another species? How would the population react to those plans?’

  Deighton banged his fist down on the table. ‘You’ve been against my vision for this programme from the start, Daphne.’

  ‘Settle down, Charles,’ said Tanya. ‘Nobody’s dismissing the idea of the alteration programme outright, but we need to think some more about moving up the timeline. I think we should put it to a vote, but not before we understand the changes in Serena. She is, after all, what we are supposed to become.’ Tanya looked at Deighton. ‘She killed Dr Finnegan, is that right? What happened that night?’

  Tanya would hear his version. The formal report lacked emotion and excitement. ‘It was truly terrifying. It all happened so fast. I was standing beside her. The doctor had just released Serena’s wrist clamps’—he shook his head, as if appalled—‘when suddenly Serena attacked her.’ He lowered his eyes for a few beats, then looked up at the board members, his eyes filled with tears.

  Most seemed taken in by his dramatics—even Gilchrist. One of them puffed out in disbelief.

  ‘Did you arrange for a food basket to be sent to the doctor’s family?’ said Tanya.

  ‘She has no family.’ Truth was Deighton knew little about Caroline Finnegan. She was nothing more than a casualty of war.

  Tanya waved her hand. ‘Send it to one of the orphanages then. We should be seen to do something good in the doctor’s name. Now, I suggest we take a vote on bringing forward the timing of the alteration programme.’

  But Deighton felt the need to say more. ‘Before we take a vote, may I explain what I propose?’

  Tanya checked the time and sighed. ‘Be quick.’

  ‘The Indigenes can’t be trusted,’ he began. ‘By nature, they’re killers. But with Serena, I’ve shown that with the right human host and code from a second-generation Indigene, we can produce a remarkable alpha species. Aggression in future generations need not be an issue—we can simply alter that area of the brain. What I propose is a two-stage plan of action. First, we find out the Indigenes’ location and drive them out like the vermin they are. We should hold on to a few of the second-generation Indigenes, for testing. Then draw up a list with the strongest genetic types from the humans we’ve tested so far and put the alteration programme into action.’

  ‘Have you forgotten that these “vermin”, as you like to call them, were once human like us?’ Tanya looked appalled. ‘How do you propose we action the first part of your suggestion—to locate the Indigenes?’

  Deighton reminded them about the tracer and recording device that he’d had implanted in Anton’s brain. ‘Once we penetrate the electromagnetic field that’s blocking the signals we’ll learn all we need to about their underground fortress.’

  He looked around at the board members; some nodded, others shook their heads. He could smell success. If he could win the majority of the board, all he needed was to be healthy enough to make the list for genetic selection. That’s where Serena’s code came in.

  ‘I’m not comfortable with putting the lives of an entire race to a vote on the strength of what I’ve read in a report,’ said Tanya. ‘I need to see for myself how dangerous they really are. We should also consider if there are investment opportunities to be had with the Indigenes. There’s only one way to determine that—we should travel to Exilon 5 to speak to their leaders.’

  Deighton’s optimism fell like a flat balloon. ‘But Chair, what good would that do? We already know they’re dangerous.’

  ‘If I’m going to condemn a race to its death, I want to be damn sure they’re of no further use to us. Let’s have no more discussion and vote on it. All those in favour of meeting the Indigenes, raise your hand.’

  Seven hands raised; Gilchrist’s was one of them.

  ‘Seven to four, and I vote in favour—well, that settles it. We’ll meet with the Indigenes.’ Tanya switched off her DPad. ‘And I think we should bring Bill Taggart in on this.’

  ‘Taggart? Why?’ Deighton didn’t want him anywhere near this.

  ‘Because he’s the only one who got close to them without being seen as a threat. He could prove useful in negotiations.’ Tanya stood up. ‘We’ll vote on the Indigenes’ fate, and plans to bring forward the alteration programme after we’ve met the Indigenes. Meeting adjourned.’

  Deighton leaned back in his chair. Not quite how he’d planned the meeting to go, but it was better than an outright dismissal. He had work to do between now and their next board meeting. For a start, he needed to change the report on Serena to make sure it mentioned her killing the doctor. The board members themselves needed work. He might win the liberal members round—those in favour of Exilon 5—by talking up the advantages of a super human race, but the conservatives would always oppose any radical change.

  All he needed was a majority, and Tanya Li would vote his way.

  But first, he had to deal with Gilchrist.

  9

  ‘Slow down!’ Stephen chased after Pierre as he hurried through the tunnel to Anton’s quarters. ‘We should talk about a strategy first. Don’t just barge in there. I’ve seen what he can do.’

  Gabriel had convinced Pierre to sleep on going to see Anton, and that morning, Stephen, Gabriel and Arianna had arrived at Council Chambers ready to talk more. But Pierre had other ideas.

  ‘There’s nothing to discuss, Stephen,’ said Pierre. ‘Arianna, tell me what Anton said exactly. What information was supposed to jog my memory?’

  She ran to catch up. ‘He mentioned a Benedictine University.’

  The tunnel widened and four Indigenes—twice the numbers when Arianna had visited—stood guard at the entrance to the residential area where Anton was being held.

  ‘Let us past,’ Pierre said to the guards. He showed no sign of slowing down.

  One male stopped him with his arm. ‘We’re under strict instructions not to let anyone in.’

  ‘But you let me pass before,’ said Arianna.

  The male glanced at her. ‘No one else is allowed in.’

  Pierre frowned. ‘Who gave you those instructions?’

  The guard looked at Gabriel.

  Gabriel shrugged under Pierre’s new scrutiny. ‘I ordered tighter security when I heard about Arianna’s visit.’

  ‘Well, get rid of them.’

  Gabriel nodded to the guards who allowed them through.

  The single-occupancy living quarters were arranged on two levels, with stone step access to the upper tier. The roof was lower than the three-tier space Stephen was used to and it made the space feel tight.

  He spotted Leon waiting by the one of the doors on ground level.

/>   ‘What’s he doing here?’ said Pierre.

  ‘I said he could come,’ said Gabriel.

  Stephen gave Leon a nod, but Leon was too busy glaring at Pierre to notice.

  ‘Why are you here?’ said Pierre.

  ‘I came to see my son. I heard you intend to go in there and I haven’t seen him since Arianna’s visit locked the place down.’

  ‘Well, you’ve no business being here right now,’ said Pierre.

  Leon smiled. ‘My only son is none of my business?’

  Pierre waved his hand. ‘You know what I mean.’

  Gabriel stepped forward. ‘Leon, I’ve been too busy to ask you how you’re doing. This situation has been difficult for all of us.’

  Leon lowered his eyes in the presence of an elder. ‘I’ve been better. My son is not himself and I’m—’ He shook his head.

  ‘—being treated as an outcast?’ said Gabriel, glancing at Pierre.

  Leon met his gaze and nodded.

  ‘Pierre, don’t you think it’s time you buried the hatchet?’ said Gabriel. ‘Preferably not in Leon’s back. Can’t you see he needs our support? Anton does too.’

  Pierre turned away. ‘I’ve tried, but I can’t.’

  ‘Would it help to punch him, like you hit Stephen?’ said Gabriel.

  Stephen’s guilt flared just as Leon’s eyes widened.

  ‘No, I... I should never have done that,’ said Pierre.

  Gabriel huffed. ‘Then what do you want to do? Must I emasculate you in front of your charges so you’ll see sense?’

  ‘This is my district, Gabriel. You’d do well to remember that. I am still the presiding elder here.’

  ‘Well as the presiding elder, forgive Leon. It’s not his fault. He didn’t kill your wife.’

  ‘Don’t you think I know that?’ Pierre breathed hard and Stephen saw tears in his eyes. ‘Fighting is not appropriate behaviour for an elder.’

  ‘Screw that, Pierre,’ said Gabriel. ‘We fight for our survival and sometimes we need to vent. If you don’t let the bad out, it will find another way. You’ve been passive for too long. It’s time you sprung into action.’

  ‘I told you no.’ Pierre visibly shook.

  But Gabriel didn’t stop. ‘I know you hate that I’m in charge, because it means you’re not doing your job. So why not reclaim your district? Start with Leon. Forgive him.’

  The elder shot past Gabriel at Leon, fist raised. Leon sidestepped the attack and Pierre’s fist only grazed his cheek. But Pierre lunged a second time and his fist landed square on Leon’s jaw. The impact sent Leon backwards and he fell to the ground next to the guards outside Anton’s door who watched. Stephen watched stunned as Leon’s wound healed. The guards went to restrain Pierre, but Gabriel signalled for them to stop.

  Stephen glanced at Arianna who shrugged. Perhaps fighting with Leon had restored Pierre’s passion.

  Pierre stood over Leon on the floor and helped him to his feet. ‘We’ll get Anton back together.’ Leon nodded and winced as he checked his facial injuries.

  Elise’s death had changed Pierre. The old Pierre would have apologised for his outburst.

  ‘Well, now that the fun and games are over, it’s time for Pierre to get in there,’ said Gabriel. ‘Find out who this other personality is and what the hell it wants.’

  A more alert Pierre stepped up to the door to Anton’s room.

  Stephen stopped him with a hand on the elder’s arm. ‘I can’t let you go in alone. It’s too dangerous.’

  ‘If anyone’s going in it’s me,’ said Leon. The cut on his face was healing and the swelling had halved.

  ‘No, Leon,’ said Stephen. ‘Whoever’s in there right now is not your son. Pierre must go, and I’ll go with him.’

  ‘Why?’

  ‘Because he asked for Pierre.’

  Leon became angry. ‘But why you?’

  ‘I’ve already seen the other personality—Arianna showed me—so I know what to expect. I promise I’ll do everything I can to protect both Pierre and Anton.’

  ‘I don’t need a babysitter, Stephen,’ said Pierre.

  ‘I’m coming in whether you like it or not.’

  Stephen pushed past the elder to open the door. He checked inside the room, relieved to see Anton sat in a chair further back inside the space. He entered the room followed by Pierre who closed the door behind him leaving Gabriel, Arianna and Leon outside with the two guards.

  A strong, acidic smell hit him. The smell of urine strengthened the further he inched forward. Stephen noticed a wet patch on the mattress, which had been shoved up into one corner. Anton sat opposite the mattress in front of a mirror on the wall and stared at his reflection.

  Anton didn’t acknowledge their presence, but Stephen could sense the other personality, the one Arianna had shown him, was here.

  ‘For years I wondered what it would be like to be an Indigene.’ Anton plucked at the tight skin around his eyes. ‘Now that I am one, I’ve no idea what all the fuss is about.’ He twisted round in the chair and stared at Pierre. ‘I see now why you don’t use mirrors.’

  ‘If you don’t like the way we do things, you’re free to leave,’ said Pierre.

  ‘Why haven’t I seen you around much? Was it because I killed your wife?’

  Stephen sensed Pierre’s sudden anger. ‘What are you doing here, Benedict?’

  Anton grinned. ‘So you do remember me?’ He stood up and faced Pierre. His arms hung at his side.

  Stephen recognised the stance that was not a human one. And apparently Pierre did too.

  ‘I see not all of Anton is lost,’ said the elder.

  ‘His bad habits creep in now and again.’ The prisoner forced his arms to fold. ‘And what is it with this meditation garbage? It’s all he thinks about.’

  ‘You’re not welcome here, old man,’ said Pierre. ‘Let me speak to Anton.’

  Stephen frowned at the familiarity between the pair.

  ‘Anton’s not here. You can talk to me—your old pal, Benedict. I assume dear old wifey unlocked your memories. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be here.’

  ‘You’re not the real Charles Deighton,’ said Pierre. ‘You’re just an imprint of a personality that believes he was reincarnated—or capable of possession, or some other highly illogical idea.’

  While Benedict was distracted, Stephen said, ‘Anton, can you hear me?’

  Benedict’s arms unfolded and snapped to his side. ‘He’s not home right now. Would you like to leave a message?’

  It relieved Stephen to see evidence that Anton lived. ‘Hold on, Anton. We’re coming for you.’

  Benedict fought against Anton and attempted to fold his arms again. ‘Stop it. I’m talking now.’ Then his arms folded with ease and he smiled at Pierre.

  ‘Did you like the clue I left for you?’ said Benedict. ‘I knew you’d get the reference if you remembered enough of your past.’

  ‘The Benedictine University in Illinois was where my human self first met Charles Deighton,’ Pierre explained to Stephen.

  Benedict stepped forward and squinted at Pierre. ‘In front of me I see an elderly man with papery, translucent skin, but I also see someone else—your former self. I saw it when you got angry. You can mask your true self behind the serenity of this district, and in that body all you want. But I know the real you, the person who’d screw people over to get what you wanted.’

  ‘Let me speak to Anton,’ said Pierre.

  ‘Don’t worry he’s here, listening. Do you remember the board meetings, Pierre?’ Benedict changed the subject. ‘Full of sanctimonious pricks who pretended to care about the population, but then who secretly plotted to further their own cause.’ He shrugged. ‘I guess not much has changed.’

  ‘Board meetings?’ Pierre frowned. ‘I don’t remember any board meetings.’

  ‘Sure you do.’ Benedict paused. ‘At least, I think you do.’

  ‘Perhaps you’re confusing your memories with Anton’s,’ suggested Pierre.
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br />   ‘What would Anton know about fucking board meetings?’ Benedict pointed an unsteady finger at Pierre. ‘No, I’m positive it was you.’

  ‘He was on Earth for a long time,’ Pierre went on. ‘Perhaps he overheard a conversation you had with someone.’

  Benedict’s arms snapped to his sides again. Stephen saw what Pierre was doing and nodded at him to keep going.

  ‘You’re mixing your memories up with Anton’s,’ said Pierre. ‘And look at how he controls your posture. Cognitively, we’re stronger than you. You can’t win, Charles.’

  Benedict squeezed his eyes shut and tried to gain control of his arms. Pierre and Stephen could only watch as the two personalities fought for dominance. Benedict smacked his head. ‘Get out of there. Stop screwing with me.’

  Pierre and Stephen lunged at Benedict and restrained his arms.

  ‘Don’t make this more difficult than it is,’ said Pierre.

  Benedict glared at him. ‘You piece of shit. Look what you made me do—live in someone else’s mind and body just to get close to you. It’s bullshit.’

  Pierre shook his head. ‘You’re not the real Charles Deighton. You’re using Anton, an innocent Indigene, to seek revenge on Deighton’s behalf. You don’t control Anton.’

  Who was this Charles Deighton? Stephen wanted to ask but he could see the Benedict personality gained strength the longer it stayed in control. He closed his eyes and tried to connect with Anton.

  ‘What’s he doing?’ he heard Benedict say.

  Stephen pushed into his friend’s mind to be confronted with a nebulous shadow. A bright spot appeared through its murkiness but disappeared as the cloud moved towards him. In a panic, Stephen retreated from Anton’s mind. He opened his eyes to find a concerned Pierre staring at him.

  ‘We’re done here,’ said Pierre and bundled Stephen out of the room.

  Outside and away from Benedict, Stephen’s head still felt heavy and constricted.

  ‘Well?’ said Gabriel.

  Pierre ignored him. He still held Stephen’s arm. ‘Are you okay?’