Chapter 14: Machine Man 13 SIDE B
In the hidden laboratory beneath Arasaka Tower, Peter, Gwen, and Skynet embarked on a scientific endeavor to develop a serum capable of curing Dr. Connors. The room was filled with the hum of computers, the glow of holographic displays, and the occasional exchange of scientific terms.
Peter, focused on the task at hand, examined the various chemicals laid out on the table.
Peter: "Gwen, can you confirm you've got everything from Oscorp"?
Gwen, having already completed her mission easily with the help of Skynet and Alex, nodded confidently.
Gwen: "Got it covered, I was able to get everything with the help Alex. We're good to go".
As Gwen returned to the laboratory with the collected items, the trio continued their work. Peter and Skynet combined their expertise in biochemistry and computational capabilities, respectively, to analyze and synthesize the cure.
Skynet: Peter, the molecular structure of the lizard serum is quite complex. This serum must be precise to counteract its effects.
Peter: I know, Skynet. Precision is key. We can't afford any mistakes. We're dealing with a human life here.
While Peter and Skynet delved into the scientific intricacies, Gwen placed the gathered components on the table.
Gwen: (whispering to herself) Everything Oscorp had on the list. Let's get this serum ready.
Back in the lab, the atmosphere remained tense, yet determined. The trio knew the importance of their mission – to bring back Dr. Connors from the lizard affliction that gripped him.
Peter: (glancing at the door) Gwen, great job. Let's make sure everything is ready when we administer the cure.
With meticulous precision, Peter, Gwen, and Skynet successfully synthesized the serum that held the potential to cure Dr. Connors of his lizard affliction. The vials containing the antidote shimmered under the laboratory lights, a testament of their work.
Gwen: (holding a vial) This is it. The culmination of our efforts.
Peter, with a determined expression, nodded in agreement.
Peter: We need to administer this carefully. Skynet, run a final check on the serum's composition.
Skynet's holographic interface displayed the detailed analysis of the serum, confirming its stability and effectiveness.
Skynet: All parameters are within optimal range. The serum is ready for injection.
As they prepared to administer the cure, the trio approached the containment area where Dr. Connors, in his lizard form, was confined.
Gwen: (looking at Dr. Connors) We're going to bring you back, Doctor.
Peter, holding the syringe filled with the antidote, approached the containment unit. With a moment of collective determination, they carefully injected the serum into Dr. Connors.
The transformation was gradual but evident. The once-reptilian features of Dr. Connors began to recede, replaced by the familiar human appearance. As the serum took effect, Dr. Connors transformed back to his human form.
Dr. Connors: (regaining consciousness) What... where am I?
Gwen: (smiling) You're back, Doctor. You've been through quite an ordeal.
Peter: (offering a hand) Welcome back, Dr. Connors.
Dr. Connors, now fully restored to his human form, found himself overwhelmed with remorse and guilt for the actions committed while under the influence of the lizard serum. The weight of those deeds bore heavily on his conscience.
Peter, sensing Connors' inner turmoil, approached him with understanding.
Peter: (placing a reassuring hand on Connors' shoulder) Dr. Connors, what happened wasn't your fault. The lizard serum triggered instincts beyond your control. You're not to blame for the actions of the creature.
Gwen joined the conversation, offering her support.
Gwen: Peter's right. We know you would never willingly cause harm. The serum amplified the lizard's instincts, and we're just grateful we could bring you back.
As Connors wrestled with his emotions, Alex, donned in his Specter persona, approached the trio.
Specter: (calmly) Dr. Connors, we've all faced our demons. What matters now is how you choose to move forward. You have a chance at redemption. Handing out a set of clothes for Dr. Connors. As Connors took the garments, he couldn't help but express his surprise upon seeing Specter.
Dr. Connors: (stammering) Specter? Is it really you? I've seen videos, but this... I didn't expect...
Specter, silent and enigmatic as ever, acknowledged with a subtle nod. Specter acknowledges Dr Connors predicament of wanting to make the serum work due to having only one arm.
Specter discretely talks to Peter and shared his plan to help Dr. Connors continue his research.
Specter: (whispering to Peter) I understand how Dr. Connors feels. We can't let his project go to waste.
Peter: (curious) What do you have in mind, Alex?
Specter (confidently): Although I am not as rich as Starks, I've got enough money to buy Oscorp shares. If my analysis is right, their stocks are rapidly going down. We can take advantage of this situation to get the shares we need and support Dr. Connors' work. It's a quicker and more cost-effective approach than dealing with licenses for Oscorp's numerous patents.
Peter: (impressed) That's a bold move. How can I assist?
Specter: (nodding) With your connections, assure Dr. Connors that he has a friend who can not only get him back into Oscorp but also provide the funds needed to carry on his research.
In a quiet corner of the lab, Peter approached Dr. Connors, who was still processing the recent events. Sensing an opportunity to offer hope, Peter engaged in a heartfelt conversation.
Alex mused, "Although Dr. Connors might connect the dots that I am Specter, the benefits outweigh the cons. If we're able to make the serum work, even with limitations, it will provide more maneuvering options with the government, especially considering what will happen in the future"
Peter: Dr. Connors, I've have a friend who has some influence. We're working on a plan to get you back into Oscorp and secure the funding you need to continue your research.
Dr. Connors, sounding hopeful, responded, "Really? That's incredible, Peter. I can't thank you enough." Dr. Connors replied joyfully, knowing Peter is one of the owners of Facebook and with his net worth, he could surely help him with this.
Peter: There's one condition, though. You have to promise me that you won't use yourself as a guinea pig again. Your safety and well-being are just as important as your research.
Dr. Connors: (reflective) Peter, I... I understand. I've seen the consequences of my actions. I promise I won't take those risks again. I'll focus on the science, not just for me but for the greater good.
Peter, adopting a cheery and uplifting tone, continued the conversation with Dr. Connors.
Peter: Doc, we're not just talking about your research; we're talking about the future. With the right support, you can make a real difference, not only for yourself but for everyone out there who could benefit from your work.
Dr. Connors, appreciating Peter's encouragement, nodded in agreement. Hoping with the success of the Serum. That it will help atone for his sin.
Specter smoothly interjected into the conversation between Dr. Connors and Peter.
Specter: Dr. Connors, it's time to get you home. (He handed a blindfold to Dr. Connors.) You know the drill. We can't risk you discovering the location of my base. It's just a necessary precaution.
Dr. Connors, with a chuckle, inquired, "Why doesn't Gwen get one too?"
Specter replied with a smirk, "Oh don't worry she gets one too."
Gwen, amused by their banter, playfully elbowed Specter.
As they left the lab, Specter discreetly dropped off Dr. Connors at his home, ensuring the blindfold served its purpose in keeping the secrecy of Specter's hidden base intact. The night concluded with each of them heading home, carrying the promise of a new beginning for Dr. Connors and the shared goal of securing support for his research.