In the dimly lit laboratory, the air was thick with anticipation and the musky scent of experimentation. Dr. Barbary stood amidst a labyrinth of glass beakers and arcane apparatus, his presence commanding and brooding. His sharp features, etched with purpose and a hint of maniacal determination, cut through the shadows like a knife.
"Doctor Barbary," a fellow researcher ventured cautiously, drawing the attention of the formidable scientist. Dr. Barbary turned sharply, his expression a canvas of discontent painted with lines of disdain.
"How can I assist you?" he inquired curtly, his tone laced with a disquieting edge. "Ever since my son was administered the serum, I've scarcely had a moment to breathe."
"Well, that's precisely what I need to discuss," the man replied, his voice tinged with apprehension. "Your son... He..."
"Did it work?!" Dr. Barbary interjected eagerly, advancing with urgency and seizing the man by his collar. "Tell me now, does my son bear the features of the fennec fox?"
"Y-yes, sir," the man stammered, visibly shaken. "He exhibits the distinct traits—fox tail, ears, and peculiar black markings on his cheeks. He's healthy, sir."
"Perfect..." The doctor's lips curled into a twisted smirk, a reflection of sinister satisfaction dancing in his eyes. "Now, on to greater experiments..."
"Sir, what do you mean?" the man queried, his voice trembling with uncertainty. "I thought acquiring a fox was our sole objective, as per your wife's request."
"Hahahaha!" Dr. Barbary's laughter reverberated through the chamber, a chilling symphony of ambition. "Do you truly believe I would halt at this juncture? I possess the capability to meld animal DNA with human biology! Acquiring knowledge from that Rhipsalis was a stroke of genius... I'm inclined to explore alternative avenues now. Alert squadron three to prepare the artificial wombs; I have new aspirations in mind."
"Y-yes, sir," the man stammered, quickly exiting the room, leaving Dr. Barbary to confront his reflection in the icy gleam of stainless steel.
"These are no longer of use," Dr. Barbary muttered to himself, gathering vials of serums and syringes filled with potent toxins. "I've achieved the fox; the rest are expendable... Best to dispose of them discreetly. The contents could prove lethal if mishandled."
RING RING
Snatching up the receiver, the doctor's voice softened imperceptibly. "Hello? Ah, my dear... a name? How about Horo? Very well, I'll be home soon."
With a decisive click, the call ended, leaving Dr. Barbary standing amid the remnants of his ambitions, a man possessed by visions far beyond the grasp of ordinary mortals.
YOU ARE READING
DESERT PROWL
AdventureHoro has been searching for his father ever since he left. His father was said to have mutated human genetics to become like animals. Horo knows this first hand, and is determined to stop him. With the help of some newfound friends and allies, will...
