The Secret (The Scinegue Series Book 1)

by S. R. Booth

  “Everyone here, including you, is nearly perfect. Everyone involved with our company at all is nearly perfect. Above average intelligence, excellent genes. There are different levels of perfection within the company, but yes, as you said, everyone who works here is ‘perfect’.”

  Their food arrived with a flourish as three waiters placed covered plates on the table in front of them, tossed a crisp green salad with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil, and filled beautiful crystal goblets with a ruby colored drink poured from a crystal decanter. The head waiter looked to Mr. Bryant for his approval as the covers of the dishes were removed simultaneously, releasing a burst of steam and a tantalizing aroma.

  “Will there be anything else, sir?”

  “No, everything looks excellent.” Mr. Bryant waved a hand dismissing them absently. He then meticulously unfolded a large cloth napkin set beside his plate and laid it on his lap before gesturing to Billy. “Eat now while the meal is at its best. We will continue our conversation later.” He picked up his fork and knife and cut into the tender roast duck which was covered with a swirl of light-colored sauce.

  Billy followed his lead. His first bite was a vibrant yellow slice of squash, steamed but unseasoned. The flavor burst in his mouth. “This is really good!” he exclaimed before cutting off a bite of duck to try. It was even better than the squash. It was so tender it all but melted in his mouth. It tasted like duck, but the flavor was richer, more intense than anything he had ever experienced before.

  “What do they do to this food?” he asked between bites as he hurried to try the asparagus.

  Mr. Bryant gave him what appeared to be a genuine smile, and for just a moment lost his typical snobbish attitude, pleased with Billy’s appreciation of the food. “They do very little to the food in terms of preparation. The way it is grown makes all the difference.”

  Billy remembered some of the information about genetically modified food Sarah had told him about. Still fully savoring the food, he tried to sound casual as he asked if the food was genetically modified to make it taste so good.

  Mr. Bryant, intent on his own delicious meal, answered briefly, “Of course not!”

  Billy persisted. “How is it then, that all of this food just tastes so good? It tastes like it should, yet better than any food I’ve ever had.”

  Noting Billy’s sincere interest, Mr. Bryant set down his fork and leaned back, giving the question his full attention. The production of nourishing food was one of his pet projects. “This is food as nature intended it to be. Everything is native to the area where it is grown. We try not to ship foods too far, other than specialty items that only do well in certain climates.”

  Billy gave him a confused smile. “I still don’t understand how this can be so delicious. My wife and I grow some of our own food. While it’s good, it doesn’t taste anything like this.”

  “You and your wife probably don’t have the resources to provide the perfect soil and growing conditions for your plants. The soil these plants are grown in is carefully monitored and supplemented. The plants are tested regularly as they grow to make sure their composition is as close to perfect as possible. Our animals are raised in the same way, and in the end, they are killed in a very non-stressful, humane way so nothing unsavory is released into their systems to detract from the natural flavor.”

  Billy considered the natural fertilizers he and Sarah experimented with and asked Mr. Bryant about them.

  “I’m sure the vegetables you produce taste much better than anything store-bought. Is that correct?”

  “Yes,” Billy agreed.

  “It’s the same for this, only we have taken it further. Without testing, you might over supplement in one area while another is in short supply. You probably don’t water in precise amounts at exact times either.”

  “No.” Billy shook his head considering. “That’s all it takes to make the food taste like this? Just provide the nutrients it needs and the exact amount of water it needs?”

  “In a nutshell. It’s a bit more complicated than it sounds. Our soil is often amended daily as we get readings on what is needed. We don’t just dump out some commercial fertilizer and turn the sprinkler system on.” Mr. Bryant smiled slightly then continued his meal, as Billy took a sip of what he had expected to be wine.

  “Oh, wow, this is good,” he couldn’t help saying, before he took another sip and swirled the liquid around in his mouth with his eyes closed before swallowing.

  Mr. Bryant took a drink from his glass. “Um, um-hm,” he agreed, nodding his head before he swallowed. “I believe this is pomegranate and dragon fruit. There may be something else in there,” he added as he took another sip and considered it thoughtfully.

  “I believe I taste a hint of honey, and maybe just a touch of lime.” He looked at Billy and smiled again. It was pleasant to be able to enjoy the meal with Billy’s fresh perspective. He had been eating like this for so long that he had become used to it, and forgot that food could taste any other way.

  They continued eating in relative silence, both enjoying their meals and the atmosphere—to Billy’s dismay. He had imagined a meal with Mr. Bryant would be anything other than pleasant. When they finished, a waiter made quick work of clearing the table, and another server brought a platter with two small silver dishes of peach sorbet garnished with sprigs of fresh mint.

  Billy scooped a small bite and moaned. “I can’t believe how good all of this is. Sarah and I are going to have to look into whatever fertilizing techniques you guys use. This makes an ordinary peach seem tasteless. And I love peaches.”

  Mr. Bryant spooned a bit of his own sorbet into his mouth and savored the flavor in a way he hadn’t in years, but considered Billy’s words with annoyance. This Sarah could definitely pose a problem.

  “William, perhaps now would be a good time to tell you a little bit more about the company. We can use this meal as an example. Only the very best seeds are selected for our growers. Those with the best traits: the best flavor, of course, highest nutrition, ease of growth and natural pest resistance. From that point, the seeds are nourished to the utmost of our abilities, and they provide us with wonderful foods such as what you enjoyed this evening.”

  Billy nodded, listening intently as he sampled another bite of the delicious sorbet.

  “We do the same thing with livestock. The best breeds are selected based on similar criteria, and then they are provided with everything they need to grow to their full potential.” He gave Billy a piercing look. “You see how the careful selection and care provide such perfect results?” Billy nodded again and Mr. Bryant plunged forward. “We believe the same is true with people.” Billy stopped eating but tried to act calm. He knew what Mr. Bryant was going to say, but was shocked he was going to say it so soon and so bluntly.

  “People are similar to plants and animals. Take a perfect specimen, raise it in perfect conditions, and you will receive excellent results almost every time. Granted, there are a few anomalies that present themselves from time to time. Unfortunately, we have come to expect that and work around it.” He frowned as if he didn’t like that part.

  “As I was saying earlier, everyone in this room—including you—meet the criteria that have been set for the perfect human. With proper nourishment and education we can all come as close to perfection as possible, and can continue to raise the human race to new heights of excellence.”

  Billy tried to hide his shock at Mr. Bryant’s blatant arrogance and remained silent, wondering what else he would say.

  “It might sound like arrogance to you,” and Billy’s eyes widened briefly, as he wondered if Mr. Bryant could read his thoughts, “but that is not what I am intending. This isn’t something that someone just made up. Our group has studied generations of humans, noting those characteristics that make exceptional people, and those that make for poor examples of humanity. The criteria have recently been narrowed down so there is a formula, so to speak, that when followed will produce the
healthiest and most productive people possible.”

  Billy continued to look at Mr. Bryant without saying anything, not sure what to say.

  “Some people, such as you, have apparently lucked into good genes, a decent diet and good education. Many of us here,” he glanced around the room, “have been selected and raised for excellence from an early age.” He let Billy think about that for a minute as he took a sip of his drink. He dabbed his lips with his napkin and chose his next words carefully. “Did you enjoy your meal here, William?”

  “Yes, sir. Very much. It was delicious,” Billy answered instantly.

  “Have you ever enjoyed tastier produce or duck anywhere else?” he continued.

  “No, sir,” Billy answered a bit more slowly.

  “Do you think the meal would have been as tasty if the food was purchased from the local grocery store?”

  “I, uh, I don’t think so,” Billy answered even slower, aware of the direction these questions were leading.

  “You don’t think so, William, or you know it wouldn’t have been as good?” Mr. Bryant gave him a knowing look before continuing, “We here at Scinegue have discovered that, basically, you reap what you sow.”

  Billy’s head shot up and he directed a sharp look at him, noting the biblical origin of the phrase. He wondered if Mr. Bryant could be a Christian despite his belief in eugenics. Bob said many of the people in the company were.

  “If we don’t do anything to the ground outside, it might produce a few edible plants for us. But for the most part, there will be weeds and inedible, or at least un-tasty, plants growing there. If we cultivate the soil a little bit and throw down some random seeds, they will probably grow to some extent, but the quality will be unpredictable.” He pushed his empty dish to the side, and a waiter immediately appeared to clear the table.

  Mr. Bryant continued as if there hadn’t been an interruption. “Now, if from the plants produced,” he folded his hands on the table and leaned forward, his eyes bright with excitement, “you find the tastiest and hardiest and save seeds from those to replant, then cultivate the soil purposefully with the plant’s needs in mind, and make sure growing conditions are optimal, you will produce a crop that is to your liking. If you continue to do this, only selecting seeds from the best plants each time, you will eventually end up with a perfect crop.” He sat back in his chair with a smile hovering around his lips. “We have found the same to be true with people.”

  Billy was in shock that Mr. Bryant would come right out and say that. Maybe what he meant was different from what Billy was thinking. He cleared his throat uncomfortably. “What do you mean?” he asked, hoping he misunderstood what he was hearing.

  “Exactly what I said. We have found that people selected based on certain criteria, who are provided excellent nutrition and education, will grow into super humans so to speak. They are by far healthier, brighter and more productive than their peers. They are the people who are changing the world for the better, not dragging it down as so many others do. They aren’t a burden to society,” his voice rang with passion, “but society is a burden to them.

  “We want to make the world a better place and have already started doing it. You tasted the food we can produce. Our technology is even more impressive. We have big plans for the world. Huge, amazing plans that will enable our planet and our people to thrive.” Mr. Bryant sat back in his chair appearing to relax a little bit.

  “No one works for us who doesn’t have the potential to become the best of the best. Whether they rise to that challenge or not is up to them. We screen every prospective employee with great care, ensuring they are genetically and intellectually able to fulfill a role in our company.” He paused and frowned. “Unfortunately, even those with perfect potential don’t always desire to rise to the top. They are content to just plod along doing things as they always have, unwilling to reach their full potential.”

  “What happens to them?” Billy asked hesitantly, transfixed by Mr. Bryant’s words.

  “Oh,” he shrugged, “we do our best to encourage them to excel in all they do, and to take care of their bodies to the best of their abilities. We provide training and programs for them to attend, but for those unable or unwilling to comply, they are ... how should I say this? Weeded out.” He grinned at his analogy.

  Billy checked his watch, amazed at how late it was. He glanced around and realized that he and Mr. Bryant were almost alone in the room.

  “It is getting late,” Mr. Bryant said noticing Billy’s actions. “Let me get to the point. You meet the selection criteria in every way. We prefer a higher IQ, but yours surpasses the minimum. Your height, weight and bone structure are optimal, and your health is excellent. We’ve been watching you closely since you’ve been here. You are a hard worker, able to follow directions, and the Tops have shown an interest in you. You would be a nice addition to our team.”

  Billy took a deep breath. That they had been watching him closely could have been a huge disadvantage. Of course if they suspected anything, he wouldn’t be here having dinner with Mr. Bryant right now. It’s possible he wouldn’t be alive if they suspected what he knew.

  “Mr. Bryant, I’m flattered that you would consider me for your team, but I don’t really understand what that means.” Billy hesitated slightly, then rushed on. “And I’m confused how a torn trash bag on my route led to a job offer. I thought it might get me fired if anything.”

  Mr. Bryant brushed that off. “The incident with the trash was of little consequence. As I said, you’ve been watched. The incident and the way you handled it simply brought your name to our attention and pushed our schedule forward slightly.

  “You will continue to work in your current capacity for the next few days until a suitable replacement is found. You will then move where you are needed in the organization, with a pay increase in accordance to the position. I’m not sure what your job duties will be at the moment, but the Tops seem to have big plans for you. Whatever your position, it will be a definite step up from trash collector.” He took a minute to smile, confident that Billy would agree with him completely.

  “A suitable spouse will be found for you,” he continued in a matter of fact voice, “and you will be given a home in one of our communities, based on your position in the company.”

  Billy felt his jaw go slack and he tried to wipe the shock from his face before Mr. Bryant saw it. “You do know I’m already married, right?” His voice cracked slightly, but he tried to match Mr. Bryant’s casual tone and not reveal the horror and disgust he actually felt. “Sarah. Remember? I just called her from your office.”

  Mr. Bryant looked at him, his face devoid of expression as he answered coldly, “You meet the criteria in every way. Your wife, on the other hand, does not.” He shrugged as if that explained everything.

  “It is fortunate that you don’t have any children with her,” he continued briskly. “It always complicates things excessively. We can arrange for the divorce and for your move. I have several prospects for compatible spouses for you already picked out. You will have a chance to meet each of them and offer your opinion into the selection if you like.”

  If he liked? Boy, that was big of them, Billy thought facetiously. He remained quiet, fighting the desire to walk out of this room, this company, and get as far away as he could from these people with all their secrets and crazy agendas.

  Mr. Bryant finally asked, “So, what is your decision, Billy? Are you ready to become a key member in our company?”

  Billy’s mind raced and he felt torn. Here was the opportunity Bob had prepared him for. His opening into the company to get whatever information Bob was talking about that would help stop these people. He couldn’t just agree to divorce Sarah and marry another woman, even as a farce. Bob hadn’t said anything about that.

  “Mr. Bryant, as you know this is the first I’ve heard of all of this, and I would like a chance to think it over. I would also be interested in knowing what exactly it is about Sarah that
doesn’t meet your criteria.” He tried to sound naïve, although he felt he had a good idea what Mr. Bryant would say, based on the research he’d done into eugenics and the appearance of the Scinegue employees he had seen.

  “You may of course have time to think it over, but we are in a critical stage in our growth and need a decision within two days. As to your wife, I can tell you she is several inches below ideal height, and has weak genes or had poor nourishment as a child, evidenced by her narrow palate and need for corrective lenses at such a young age. Also, based on the information we have been able to find on her, she is lacking the intelligence needed to become part of our organization.”

  Billy took immediate offense and had to bite back the words that wanted to pour out about how she was much more intelligent than this guy, just based on the fact that she knew a person’s worth was based on more important factors than the ones he had just listed. And she wore reading glasses on occasion. So what? Sheesh! They didn’t find her acceptable because of that?

  Mentally calming himself he said, “I would also like a chance to review the research that led to the criteria you are using.”

  Mr. Bryant’s face hardened. “You want to review the research?” His voice was frigid. “Who do you think you are? The criteria were selected by the Tops, a chosen few who are mentally and physically superior to any of us, and who have full authority to make those decisions.” His anger heightened with each word. “You might have made the cut, Mr. Roth, but you are nowhere near the Tops, nowhere near capable of even reviewing their research!”

  Billy was surprised by Mr. Bryant’s vehemence and tried to remain calm himself. “I’m not asking you to let me change the criteria. I would just like to review the characteristics that my wife is supposedly lacking, and see if there is sufficient proof that those traits are dominant and would even be passed down if we had children.” Billy sat back, his mind and heart racing but visibly calm.

  Mr. Bryant studied him intently. Suddenly his expression relaxed as he reached a decision. “Very well,” he agreed. “This is actually a good problem to have. So many people are led around like cattle, doing whatever they are told without researching anything for themselves. That is what will make this process so simple,” he stated reflectively with a sly smile.