Two sides of the same coin || a Jekyll and Hyde story

Chapter 1

  Henry Jekyll, a well respected man, an admired doctor going through a current rough patch, stood blank faced before the board of governors. Despite his best attempts the doctor couldn't convey his thoughts. Those ideas of his, ones that could potentially save lives, mixed with his suppressed anxieties and left him a disappointing, stuttering mess.

  "You see, Sirs, if you will, my studies so far have revealed to me what can be achieved with the serum I've produced." The handsome faced doctor began with a strong tone, confidence laced with each words he spoke. Though the many eyes that fell upon him only began to slowly gnaw away at his fears.

  "And what is that, Dr Jekyll?" The voice that boomed back was none other than Sir Danvers Carew. That man, yet another well respected gentleman, had the voice that could send anyone into a frenzy of fear. His low voice echoed within the large open room, tone unchanging from when Henry had first entered.

  "As you know, everyone, all of us, have two sides, a duality to man you could say. These sides to us are easily divided into good and evil. The evil counterpart to us is what causes wars, what brings conflict to the point of danger." Jekyll began to speak of his theories and hopes.

  "As tested on animals this serum is able to counteract this aggressive side of said animals and bring them to a more docile attitude. Similarly, already docile animals treated with the serum are shown to be filled with energy and aggression- hence why I think it should only be used for the bad."

  A hum of awe rose within the room as people nodded among themselves, liking the idea of altering the way animals act. Though this was soon snatched away as the doctor mentioned he needed further trials.

  "However, animals aren't enough anymore. I've seen the affects and such of rats, mice, birds, dogs even. But no longer do I need to test on them, I now require a human subject." At this, uproar spiked.

  Raised voices of disagreement surrounded the already anxious doctor, his shoulders hunched upwards as if he was shying away from the noise. For the shouting around him told him nothing but the lack of trust people held for the reputable man.

  It was clear, when lives were involved, the doctor was held in low regards, people didn't lay enough trust in him.

  "Dr. Henry Jekyll," the general was the first to speak up clearly. "Can't you see that is immensely immoral?!" The sharp voice attacked Henry's ears and he began to sink back.

  "Indeed. Dr Jekyll, you're a scientist, a doctor, not a God. Can you not tell the difference? You've gone too far, good man." The nurse was next to share her disagreements to the whole ordeal.

  Mr. Gabriel John Utterson was next up, he raised a hand slightly to signal he wish to spoke. A true gentleman Gabriel was, he was waiting his turn to interject, though his dear old friend interrupted him.

  "Utterson, I wish not to hear more." Jekyll cut him off and recomposed himself before speaking up again. "I know it's immorally wrong, I know it isn't man's decision to alter himself or others- but think of the possibilities! All I need is one test subject to receive verbal feedback so I can progress. I'm so close to this breakthrough!"

  Those around him stared in disbelief as the pent-up doctor raised his voice, snapping back at the board of governors. It wasn't like Jekyll to get annoyed and aggravated, but being so frowned upon left him filled with anger.

  "If this works we could save many lives- wars would no longer exist, the insane would become normal once again, lives would be more lively and life would, in general, be much better. We can shape the future here, I'm giving you the chance to join me and take credit for such a phenomenal thing. I'm on the brink of great success, you have to give me a chance!!"