Code 47 to BREV Force Cracko

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 8

Once the bedroom door was closed Martin and Vivian were in complete privacy. She brought up the schematics for the room and changed the décor to evening. Immediately the bedroom transformed. The sunshades became drawn night draperies; room lighting was switched to soft light night mode and the sitting lounger became their king size bed. Vivian was having some back pain and decided to get into bed.

Martin helped her over to the bed. She slowly maneuvered herself down. and then pressed the convert button that changed the designer shelving to a full headboard with compartments. Vivian wiggled her way back for support. She leaned against the body mold that was an exact match to her size and body contour and then turned on the nerve stimulator. "Oh," she cried out with joy, "my back really needed this!"

Martin watched her slow deliberate movements and then sat down next to her on the bed. He was sure now exactly what he would say. He told her that the I.A.S requested, rather than demanded, their assistance but he never let her know that Donatez threatened to reveal their private experimentation. When he finished telling the adjusted story, he saw a smile on her face and knew he had done the right thing.

"Oh Martin," she began, "now I understand why you've been so troubled. I know you think working under the watchful eye of the I.A.S. violates your freedoms. I know they seem to be all powerful to you but don't you remember the way it was before the I.A.S. came into existence?" Vivian didn't give him a chance to answer. "Think about the achievements: better environmental conditions, longer life spans, eradication of many diseases and so many other benefits. Their existence has enabled scientists like us to work independently, while having the resources of a collective."

Vivian stopped to look deep into her husband's eyes. She took his hand as a show of understanding, "The I.A.S. has every right to expect us to work with them. After all Martin, we signed an agreement that they could call upon us but even more than that, we have a moral responsibility to give back to the scientific community, especially if this computer virus, 'Controller,' needs to be neutralized."

He was so glad he'd decided not to tell her everything. "I hear you, Viv but you know me. I need to do my work my way. I'm just not sure they'll extend me that latitude." He took her hand and brought it up to his lips for a kiss of thanks and said, "I know you're right and despite what it seems, I do remember all the problems before the I.A.S... no one's work was safe. Computer notes were constantly being stolen and bogus results were being published. It was a very difficult time for all of us to be scientists."

"Then you agree the I.A.S. changed all that?"

He nodded, "Of course, I agree but..."

"No buts Martin. Today, we're free to work as we choose. The members of the scientific community help one another and great strides have been made. Now, we're being called upon to help the I.A.S." Knowing she needed to give him more reasons, Vivian continued, "And don't forget, whatever they want us to do must be high priority or they wouldn't have been able to obtain the temporary release from our assignment."

"Viv, you amaze me. You always see the light, especially when I see that storm outside, encasing me."

Vivian didn't want to give him a chance to back away, so she continued. "Another thing, when you think about it, this really is quite an honor. Just remember, they've asked for our help but they were well within their rights to demand that we fulfill the contract. I believe when this Dr. Donatez calls tomorrow, you should tell her that whatever they need, we proudly accept. Don't you agree, Martin?"

He didn't answer but Vivian felt sure he agreed.

He kissed her lips and helped her off the bed. They walked out of the room and went downstairs for the evening.

Vivian called her mother back while Martin proceeded to the lab to check for communications from Rosie.