I can't stop the feeling

I've been this way before

But, with you I've found the key

To open any door

I can feel my love for you

Growing stronger day by day

An' I can't wait to see you again

So I can hold you in my arms

- Whitesnake (Is This Love)

~MERCURY~

Security was tightened since the Neptunian uprising and the air was filled with uncertainty. However, research had to continue. Patient 23 escaped and his whereabouts were unknown.

The Mercurian had to make due without Patient 23. She was edging on a breakthrough on the cross-species reproduction. Her work could lead to possible genetic enhancements on military personnel.

She was so caught up in her work she failed to notice the knocking on her door. When she felt a hand on her shoulder she noticed that the Martian guard, Jaxon, was behind her. He smiled at her.

Jaxon had been keeping her company as she worked. She had grown to love him but she couldn't bring herself to admit her feelings.

"Mercury," Jaxon said.

"Hi Jaxon," She said.

Jaxon looked at the computer screen and started reading the information.

"Patient 23 was something," Jaxon said.

Mercury nodded and went back to work.

"What was with Patient 23?" Jaxon asked.

She looked back at Jaxon and frowned. Trying to find the words she opened her mouth but nothing would come out. After a moment of silence, she sighed and shrugged.

"Patient 23 was found in the Reguluosi wastes near an abandoned base. He was in good health but his parentage was a mystery," she said. "Then as I took over observation of him, he confided in me some key information.

First he was the son of the Black Wolf, which in Jovian folklore is a shapeshifter that was a malicious death. Second he claimed to be of Mercurian descent, but there are no records of any members of high born houses marrying or being abducted by a Jovian. However, his blood work suggests he is from a line of high born house. This is suggesting that creatures of folklore are capable of cross-breeding with beings like you or I.

And no matter how you look at his behavior he does have traits that are unique to him. Such as a heightened sense of smell, superior strength, and some signs of precognition. He was a special specimen."

"So you can possibly make a biologically enhanced soldier to cut back on unnecessary casualties and financial strain," Jaxon said.

"Not only that but we could expand the lifespan of the average soldier so we wouldn't have to force new generations to take up arms," she said.

Jaxon wrapped his arms around her. His eyes seemed to have a sparkle in them.

"Let me be your test subject," Jaxon said.

"What?" she asked.

"I am willing to help," Jaxon said. "I want to help you." He looked away. "I want to do this because I love you."

Her heart was pounding and her mind went blank. Going with impulse, she pressed her lips to his.

They shared a kiss. As they parted she felt more complete.

"If anything happens?" she asked.

"It'll all be worth it," Jaxon said. He nuzzled her. "And if you succeed, I'll be by your side for an eternity."