Listen With Your Heart Chapter 18
The break through with the decay rate algorithm didn't stay secret for long.
The once three-legged mouse Fred is now a four legged mouse. Thanks to the serum his leg had regenerated.
Curt Connors is now showing to Dr. Ratha now.
"Cross-species genetics is finally working. I've used the lizard DNA to help Reddy regrow that limb," said Curt Connors, presenting Dr. Ratha with Freddy so he can see the results firsthand.
"It's a miracle," said Dr. Ratha, marveling at it.
Shaking his head, Curt Connors corrected "No, it's hard work and promise and a step closer to the primate lab."
Dr. Ratha said "But he doesn't have time for every little step."
Curt Connors scoffed "Little?"
"I just mean he can't wait," said Dr. Ratha, referring to Mr. Osborn and the dire condition he's in.
"Well, he'll have to. Unless he wants to be a lab rat," said Curt Connors.
"That's not what I'm saying," said Dr. Rather, picking up a tiny vile to inspect the contents.
"What are you saying," said Curt Connors.
"You have to start human trials. Now," stated Dr. Ratha.
Finding even the suggestion of it deplorable, Curt Connors said "No, I don't, and no, I won't."
Brow raised, Dr. Ratha said "Then he's going to die."
"People die. Even Norman Osborn," said Curt Connors, picking up a pack of files to leave.
Blocking his path, Dr. Ratha said "We are not finished."
"Human trials? Where on earth are you going to find people to volunteer," demanded Curt Connors, absolutely abhorrent to this.
"As far as anyone's concerned it's for a winter flu shot," said Dr. Ratha. "I might think the Veterans Hospital is a place to start."
Angrily, Curt Connors said "You've got to be kidding me."
Quite serious, Dr. Ratha said "I don't think I am."
Curt Connors had enough of this nonsense. He wouldn't stand for it. He then went to leave before this progressed further.
Dr. Ratha grabbed Curt Connors by the stump of his lost limb keeping him there.
Fiddling with Curt Connors sleeve cuff, Dr. Ratha said "It's a little late for shock and indignation, Curt. About fifteen years late."
Inhaling deeply, Curt Connors denied "I have no idea what you're talking about?"
Taking on a steely tone, Dr. Ratha said "Richard Parker wore it well. On you, it's a cheap suit, as it was then."
"I had nothing to do with that," hissed Curt Connors, patience with this man wearing thin.
"Is that what you told his son, Peter," said Dr. Ratha.
That got Curt Connors attention.
It's about to get worse.
Sneering, Dr. Ratha said "You think we didn't know about that or the fact you adopted Richard Parker's daughter and passing her off as your own?"
Yup, it just did.
He snapped his head up instantly, posture stiffening. He really shouldn't have been surprised though. Normal Osborn has eyes and ears everywhere. But Curt Connors is a protective father and Dr. Ratha's subtle threats are enough to provoke his anger.
Careful not to reveal anything to protect Phoebe, careful to keep his temper in check, Curt Connors said "I don't know what you're saying."
"You don't or you don't want to know," challenged Dr. Ratha. "I'll remind you what happened. Richard Parker said about the same thing then that you are saying now. The clock is ticking Dr. Connors."
"I, um…," said Curt Connors, struggling with himself, "I won't."
"Fine," said Dr. Rather, straightening and holding up a vile at eye level. "The formula is ours now anyway. Say good-bye to that arm you dreamed of. I'm shutting you down. Have your office cleared out by morning. Your toys can be taken away, too, you know. As can your daughter."
"If you hurt her in anyway-," said Curt Connors, ire rising at the mention of Phoebe even close to danger.
"Oh, you need not worry there. There are other ways to hurt someone rather than by physical means. You're a smart man Curt. I'm sure you'll figure it out," said Dr. Ratha.
"Phoebe is innocent. She has nothing to do with any of this," spat Curt Connors, now fighting for Phoebe's safety.
Who knows what Osborn will have done to her especially now that he doesn't have any more leverage on them. Not that he ever did anyhow.
"On the contrary she and her brother have everything to do with this. The moment you toke that girl into your home the entire game changed. You should've though about that earlier, Curt," said Dr. Ratha, walking out the door.
Curt Connors then collapsed into the desk chair, head falling into his hand. From underneath he aimed a grim expression at the picture of a smiling Phoebe on his desk.
How on earth is he going to get a handle on this one?
Authors Note:
Hope you guys like this one! ;D
Even with all his faults Curt Connors has always been a good father. I'm sure we can all concur on that regard.
Another thing here is that I'm in desperate need your shared opinion over a new story idea that I came up with recently while watching two of my favorite franchises.
I'm considering doing a Venom story for the 2001-2003 Justice League Series. Do you guys think I should make it a crossover or just put it in the Justice League Universe? Another thing is about an idea of the symbiote completely taking over the host or if the relationship is a lot like Eddie and Venom's in the 2018 movie? Another thing is I'm having trouble with figuring out a title and a name for my character. If anyone has suggestions I'm more than willing to hear them.
As per usual with stuff like this the person/readers that offer the winning suggestions gets a question answered for the story in mind. In this case it's the Justice League 2001-2003 and Venom 2018 story.
I really want to get this idea up and running soon, but I'm kind of all over the place.
