New Story: A Splice for Life

[The Raven]

“So I've got ask. Where did the nickname 'Rolo' come from?” Ms Hatch asked during their lunch at a nearby fancy restaurant. Serenity decided not to torture poor Carlos with the full bill. He can give thanks to Roland for intervening.

“Why do men have to give everyone stupid nicknames?” Lauren said in exasperation.

“It's just a thing we do. Take it as a sign of affection, Princess.” Roland added.

“But I get the other ones. Is it really just some shorthand for Roland. That's my best guest. I mean C-Dog is from both his initials CDG and his 'doggish' personality. And we all get the dumb joke of 'Big Tim' Smallwood.” Neela still interested by the nickname.

“Have you ever eaten a rolo before?” Carlos asked when he stopped laughing. Serenity and Neela both looked a little lost, while Lauren seemed to have an idea.

“You mean those round-like chocolates filled with caramel?” Neela asked to confirm.

“Yup, hard brown chocolate on the outside, but sweet soft caramel on the inside.” Neela was still confused while Lauren and Serenity were just cringing from the terrible joke. And Carlos with a big smirk on his face.

“Could that really be it?” Serenity asked, a little afraid that it was the truth.

“That's all there is to it.” Carlos confirmed.

“I still don't get it.” “Ms Hatch, they're hosing me with that name. Calling me tough on the outside, while really being a big softie on the inside. There are some racial connotations too I'm sure. But it's all in good spirits.” Roland answered Neela.

“I still think you missed a beat not going with Tinny Tim.” Serenity joked. Roland, Carlos and Lauren all looked to her in confusion. Not getting the joke.

“Have none of you ever read Dickens before? A Christmas carol?” Serenity continued. Baffled.

“I've heard of that. They made a movie about it I think.” Carlos added. Serenity was astonished by her compatriots ignorance on literature. She planned to make Lauren very acquainted with Dickens when they got home.

After lunch, they returned to the veteran's centre, where Tim had arrived at some point during their absence.

“I thought we were going over applicants this afternoon Rolo?” said the towering lizard man.

“Hey Tim. Good news, we're getting an investigation team in to vet the prospects for us.” Roland told his friend and former unit member.

“That'll help. It's not something any of us are really suited for. But how are we getting the budget for it?” he asked his now boss.

“We can thank the boss lady for her generosity.” Roland pointed to Serenity.

“Miss Conrad I presume? I want to thank you personally for everything.” Tim told her as he bowed. Tim had something to be thankful for more than just his own recovery. His wife was diagnosed with cancer as he was about to go through his splicing. It was Serenity who paid for his wife to receive a splicing that cured her cancer. He didn't know all the details, but didn't care. To him, Serenity Conrad was his saviour.

Tim looked over at the other ladies. He assumed the tall beauty must be the so called 'Princess' of Miss Conrad. But the other unspliced woman in the suit, he didn't have any idea on who they could be.

“No need to thank us. We were glad to help such fine men as yourself, KJ and Roland here. How's your wife faring in her transition?” Serenity inquired.

Tim didn't fail to notice the exclusion of Carlos. He wondered what it could have been when he saw the awkward glances Carlos was making at the suspected 'princess'. Yup, Tim thought. He deserved it.

“She's enjoying life. She even joins me on road with KJ sometimes.” Tim informed her.

Tim and KJ acted as scouts for the programme. They travelled to veteran's centres across the country speaking to the doctors and vets themselves, looking for eligible candidates. At first they thought they could properly vet them for possible dangers themselves. But they quickly learned they lacked the skills for that sort of work.

Tim, KJ and Carlos were all volunteers unlike Roland who had a paid position. They volunteered to help their former 'Sarge' with his new position as they were looking for work themselves. Roland did reimburse them for any travel expenses when doing work for him and even giving them some bonuses every so often for the work they did. All paid for by the discretionary fund he had at his disposal. He didn't want to blow it all by just paying it out to his friends. He was being very careful with this budget, but his friends really wanted to help him out. And he wanted to do the same.

“So Neela. What do you think? We originally considered doing the splicing in house but after Lauren did the numbers, we found it would be cheaper and much simpler to contract it out to Neuvocore. As I'm sure Neuvocore could give us some fair rates for the bulk business. And the positive PR.” Serenity negotiated.

Neela was certainly impressed by the programme. Helping wounded veterans recover from severe injuries. But she knew the real intentions behind this front of a programme. Regeneration testing. The positive PR probably doesn't hurt their plans either.

Neela knew her place in the Conrad plan for the future. She saw there vision as an inevitable outcome that they only wished to accelerate into reality. She could either assist, or interfere with their plans and she could see no benefit in the latter. It was also in the best interests of Neuvocore to involve itself in this programme. Both for the positive PR and more importantly, to hold priority on the gene-codes for regeneration.

Neela had only recently begun to understand the value of gene-codes and was currently investigating what Neuvocore truly had in its archive and what specifically was under patent too. It would be more than a year later when she discovered the literal gold mine within Neuvocore's possession. The gene-code for human longevity.

“I believe we can create a positive relationship with this programme. One that can benefit both the veteran recipients, and Neuvocore. It will be a pleasure working with you Mr Truth.” Neela expressed, but deep down she knew she probably wouldn't see any of these men again after today.

This sort of issue was significantly below her position. She was only here because of Serenity's invitation. And someone from her department would be assigned the job of maintaining communication with and facilitating the programmes needs. And she wasn't the only one to have that realisation.

“Ms Hatch. If I could be permitted to be so bold.” Roland asked, awaiting further approval before he continued.

“You may. You also don't need to be so formal with me. Your casual tone is far more pleasant.” she answered.

“Thanks. Well, I'd like to ask if we could see each other again. Possibly over, coffee, maybe?” he proposed.

Neela was confused for a moment. Was he asking for a date? No, it was just coffee. A chance to get to know each other better. Maybe a date in the future though? He was a charming and very attractive lizard man. She could see the respect he held from his former unit and understood his caring nature by his work. She also know he was very humble. Not a man looking for a quick rise to the top. Someone who would appreciate a woman like her for who she is, and not just her position. Maybe this was a good opportunity she thought.

“I'm a very busy woman Roland. I don't really have time for a casual coffee meet up. How does dinner sound? This Saturday?” Neela counter offered, a cheeky smile, rising on her face. Roland was a little surprised at first, but he liked his woman to be bold. It made him like her even more.

“Where and when would you like me to pick you up?” was his answer. A cocky smile on his lizard face.

Neela didn't like getting ahead of herself, but she was starting to consider what life would be like if she was a little more, reptilian.











Big Thanks to all the readers. Next chapter has some of the stuff we're all here for on this site.

[Wookey]

K++. Love a slow build

[The Raven]

Serenity and Lauren returned to the Conrad private island shortly after their meeting with Roland. They'd be spending the next few months doing dealings over video calls and forging further plans for the future with the elderly Conrad couple.

When they returned home, Lauren discovered a new set of weights in the gym. A set far heavier than she ever imagined she'd ever see in a gym. Every plate significantly heavier than she could ever lift. She quickly went to the gym records and immediately discovered, that the Conrad couple were growing again.

She wondered how Serenity would take the news. Serenity had been taking great pride recently in her superhuman physical strength. She even started to believe that she may have been stronger than her mighty dragon grandparents. Now Lauren knew for certain that her lover was far from their level. Each plate was measure in tonnes. From 0.5 to 5 tonne plates. And dumbbells on the same scale. Lauren didn't even know what material they could have been made from to be so heavy, yet so small.

This wasn't something she could easily hide from her lover. So that night she sat her lover down and told Serenity of her discovery. She could see her lover's spirit boiling over. Her desire for power driving her to push herself harder. But there was one big problem with this. Serenity was a public figure. And needed to remain so. Her current size was already pushing certain boundaries of normal discourse. If she were to grow too much bigger at the moment, she could lose her position. And this could cause her to lose everything.

Lauren had to be stern with Serenity. Be the harsh cold truth. That she couldn't compete with her grandparents with this at the moment.

That night, Serenity made a promise to the world. When splicing became accepted in the world, she'd become the true powerhouse beast she desired to be. The strongest, most powerful beast in the world. They both knew Serenity still had so much more potential to grow, and Lauren promised to make Serenity's dream come true.

Joining the Conrad couple for a meal was quite the spectacle these days. They consumed whole roasted animals. Multiple animals. For each meal. Traditional cutlery was small and impractical in their large, clawed hands. So they mostly ate using those same clawed hands to rip, cut and tear their food apart. They savaged all their meals like wild animals these days. Any semblance of manners long gone.

They devoured more than a family of four did in a week every day. And with Annabelle gone for more than 2 months, the couple became more and more wild with the passage of each day. Abandoning the use of utensils and rarely wearing clothes around the house were just some of the more, animalistic, tendencies of the couple.

Reginald and Augustine who were still on the island performing their duties, left the couple to their own pleasures. They'd witnessed the decline of the elderly couple before their evolution into mighty dragons. So letting the couple enjoy their renewed youth and vigour as they pleased was the logical conclusion to them and the remaining staff, whom also enjoyed seeing this greatly.

It was obvious that the old turtle woman, Annabelle was not pleased when she returned to the island. The house was not in an appropriate state for people of such stature. Most of the staff were too lax with their duties and attire. And the masters were acting far too, liberal in most of their daily actions. To walk around naked was a surprise to her but she was even more shocked to discover the abandonment of the use of cutlery during meals.

She quickly made orders for custom utensils that would fit the couples needs and changed the meal preparation to eastern cuisine for the time being. The couple both knew how to use chopsticks and would be doing so for the next while until appropriate western cutlery was available for them. Annabelle made sure of that.

A new strict dress code was being enforced on the island with an iron will. Even the mighty dragon couple knew to never cross the stubborn Annabelle when she was on the war path. Her war against indecency and for the pride of manners and tradition was eternal on the Conrad estate, but she felt it was her duty to fight for the honour of the Conrad family in preserving their decency.

It wasn't long before 'civility' returned to the estate. Annabelle swearing that she wouldn't leave on any trips that would last that long again after what she'd witnessed upon her recent return.

Serenity and Lauren enjoyed reuniting with their grandparents after their two months away. Serenity even got a bit excited to join in with the new attitude of the estate before Annabelle started her crusade. She only managed to avoid lectures thanks to Lauren's intervention, recommending she wait before indulging. Lauren just knew Annabelle would not tolerate these recent changes.

Reginald was the same as ever. He never indulged in naturist phase that overcame the estate but he also never chose to fight against it. This did put him at odds with his long time friend Annabelle upon her return, but old friends could easily make amends. He was very happy to see his beloved granddaughter return and see her doing so well, while also being very happy.

The dragon couple had went through another growth spurt during those months. Over the span of 6 weeks, the couple had each shed a layer of skin, causing their bodies to once again grow to new heights and push their giant, powerful muscles to even greater strength and mass.

They positively towered over everyone when they stood on their two legs but were also taller than most while walking on four limbs, their preferred way to walk these days.

Serenity and Lauren were actually shocked to see just how much the couple had grown from their latest growth spurt. Both now more than twice the height of Serenity and much, much more muscular.

One day, Serenity joined her grandmother for a joint workout using the new weights. While Serenity struggled with the smaller plates, Julia was pumping through with more of the bigger ones, lifting several tonnes with each lift. Her colossal, scaly muscles pumping even bigger. Her godlike strength only inspiring Serenity even more as Lauren kept reminding her to not push too hard. Something she struggled with very hard when working out with grandmother.

[Wookey]

Love the way you are building the story. So many wonderful arcs are possible

[evanw]

Serenity just needs to give into the appetite for growth. I believe she could far exceed her grandparents in size and strength 🥵

[The Raven]

Thanks for all the support and interest in this story.




Several months after the young girls had returned to the island when summer was approaching, the pro-splicer groups were assembling for a massive conference in New York city. This wasn't the first of such a gathering, but it was by far the largest and most encompassing. The Conrad Institute was obviously a key backer of the conference and Serenity was an expected guest for many private meetings to take place at the gathering.

Coincidentally, the young couple had a travel issue. There was a mix up at the airport where the Conrad private plane was scheduled for refuelling. A mix up on fuel delivery dates, leading to a lack of fuel at their refuelling stop which delayed their arrival by a day. A delay that spared them from the tragedy of what transpired on the first day of the conference.

On the opening day of the conference, an anti-splicer extremist detonated a bomb before commencing a shooting spree throughout the venue. The terrorist was shot dead by the police but only after a multi-hour rampage. It didn't end there either. His death set of a dead-man trigger, blowing himself up, further increasing the death toll and carnage of this incident.

The young couple heard this all on news from their hotel room. They spent the afternoon trying to contact their friends, colleagues and known associates attending the event. When none of their calls were going through or messages being replied to, the couple started to panic. Dread about the worst case scenarios were running through their minds as the number of injuries and casualties reported on the news kept rising.

In the end, most of their acquaintances were fine. Not being part of the 27 deaths or 248 severely injured. All but one. One of their associates was in intensive care. Neela Hatch.

Neela was caught in the initial bomb blast. As was another of their associates. Roland Truth was with Neela at the time of the blast. He tried his best to shield Ms Hatch which most likely saved her life. But he could not completely shield her from harm. He too was severely injured from the blast. But with his enhanced regeneration, he didn't need any extensive medical help. All his many injuries that would have killed a normal human had healed by the time he arrived at the hospital with Neela.

He waited with trepidation outside the emergency room as the doctors operated on Neela. His body was still a mess. Many of his scales were damaged or missing. Burn marks all over his body. But these injuries were slowly vanishing with every passing hour.

His phone had been destroyed in the blast. And as he was waiting for news in the operating room, his friend Carlos arrived. Roland used Carlos phone to check his messages, where he found multiple messages from Lauren Weiss. He immediately called her on the number she provided.

“Miss Weiss? It's Roland.”

“Oh God Roland! Are you okay?” Lauren screamed down the phone, interrupting him.

“I'm okay. A little banged up, but okay. Thanks to your treatment. It's, it's Neela.” he told her. His voice breaking up a little.

[The Raven]

Bonus extra chapter due to the long hiatus and shortness of chapters.


Roland and Neela had been a couple ever since that first date. Roland had become smitten with the executive. He loved her wit and her charm. She had a casual, relaxing nature to her but also a strong determination to have things her way. Roland was a bit of a submissive when it came to his women and enjoyed it when she took control. Something Neela enjoyed about him too.

Neela had also never dated a guy like Roland before. She'd always liked confident men which somehow never lead to a good outcome. But Roland, he had a different kind of confidence. He wasn't arrogant or full of himself. He was confident in what he wanted, what he liked and he was always respectful.

She was charmed by his straight forward nature but it was his understanding and willingness to let her lead that made her feel special when she was with him. She kept having to hold herself back with Roland, never wanting to jump in to quickly with any relationship. But this one was just feeling right. Perfect really.

Even when she asked him his opinion on children, his reply was just what she wanted to hear, maybe even better than she had imagined.

“I'm not sure how good I'd be as a father, but with the right woman. I'm sure we'd raise them well.”

They planned to spend the long weekend together throughout the conference. Even sharing a hotel room. The night before the conference, was their first night together, sharing a bed and even more. Neither of them were virgins, and this was not Roland's first time after his splicing either. But both of them knew that night was special. And Neela in particular, knew she couldn't let her lizard man escape her any longer. He was who she wanted.

[Wookey]

Thank you.  Love the way you are building the story

[The Raven]

As Neela was awakening from her anaesthetic, all she could think about was Roland. Neela had been unconscious for 4 days. The conference finishing before she'd awoken. She had to undergo 3 separate surgeries to stop the internal bleeding and removed the damaged tissue. Her retinas had also been burned by the blast, severely reducing her vision. She couldn't even see Roland waiting by her bedside.

Roland had never left her side. Letting Carlos run errands for him and Neela. Serenity and Lauren arrived the day after the attack, offering Roland any help that they could. Neela was in her second surgery at this point as her vitals had destabilized from more internal bleeding. Roland hadn't been this scared since his final days in the army. Reliving the trauma of the event that ended his military career.

Serenity and Lauren had plenty of additional workload with the conference as certain meetings needed to happen. But before they departed, they made Roland promise to contact them if anything changed. The 2nd day of the conference had been called off while many of the 3rd and 4th day events were turned into digital events since the conference centre was unusable. Serenity had to make plenty of hotel visits to some of the attendees who weren't scared and fled the city. While also making reassurances that nothing like this would happen again to their supporters.

Roland had informed the young couple of Neela's status and that she requested a meeting with them when they had some time available. Neela hadn't seen the young couple since they'd introduced her to Roland. Even though her vision was weak, especially in her left eye, she could see that the couple had changed from when they last met all those months ago.

Serenity had bulked up a little while also growing a couple of inches in height. It may not sound like much but it was both very noticeable and required Serenity to purchase a brand new wardrobe full of clothes.

It was Lauren who had change the most of the two. She was also taller, now reaching about 7 feet but it was her thicker muscles, clearly visible through her tight clothing that was staggering. She'd clearly bulked up to more bodybuilder levels of muscles from her old cross-fit like physique. Her boobs were also bigger, or was that just an illusion from her increased pectoral muscle mass? Neela couldn't tell.

She had one reason to see the young couple. A single request actually.

“I would like to receive the same splice as Roland.” she boldly asked.

Neela was determined now. She wasn't quite ready to take the plunge before the attack. She knew the process was irreversible. And to Roland, this was as close to a proposal of marriage as it could have been without actually being one. She was declaring to him and the young couple, that she wanted to be with Roland. That she wanted to have children together. And she made that declaration to them all with no hesitation.

“You know it would be illegal to do that Neela?” Serenity warned her.

“Has that ever stopped you? Or your family before?” Neela countered, attempting her best smile on her scarred face. Her steely determination was enough to persuade Serenity.

“Once your able, we'll fly back to the island. I'll arrange for the procedure myself. I'm sure my grandparents will be thrilled to see you again.” Serenity offered before looking to Roland.

“Feel free to join us if wish Roland. But I warn you. Whatever happens there. Whatever you see. It is not to be spoken about. Do you understand?” Serenity stared into his eyes, a deep ferocity could be felt, pressuring him from her glare.

He'd only knew Serenity to ever be this way when it came to her princess. The line he knew to never cross. She now had another one, if he so dared to go. Neela had shown her determination, it was now time for him to do the same. He decided to join them in going to the island. But he also knew he had to make a special purchase before they left. He needed the same determination that Neela had shown.

[The Raven]

Bonus mini-chapter


The elderly Conrad couple were late in hearing news being isolated in on their private island. They were obviously shocked and surprised by the terrorist attack on the conference. They felt sorry for the victims, but they also knew this was a prime opportunity to further advance their agenda. This attack also showed a clear lack of thought on certain matters. In particular the possibility of their own people being targetted. So they immediately started looking into acquiring some private security. Although this too, would be used to further advance their agenda.

The elderly couple were surprised to hear about Ms Hatch and her injuries. Even more so when Serenity called them a few days later asking them for approval to acquiesce Neela's request. The timing would be most fitting for the Conrad couple, as Dr Hartwell had informed them of his latest advancement. The next evolution in splicing technology. They'd bring them all to the island once Neela was able.

It was another 10 days before the doctor's let Neela out the hospital. She had to undergo another surgery. If Roland wasn't by her side, he had Carlos or Tim near by to help her with whatever she needed. Serenity assured that Neela had a private room and the boys would always be given access. Money really made anything possible in the US healthcare service.

When she was finally out, Lauren arranged for the trip a few days later when the doctors agreed it would be safe for Neela to fly.

There were 5 guests flying out to the island this time with Serenity and Lauren. The young couple stayed all this time for some additional face to face meetings. They went on a PR blitz against the anti-splicer movement, especially the more extreme fringes that were supported by the terrorist.

After the attack, public speakers in the pro-splicing movement flooded the mainstream media and the online media space. Going on every show you could think of. From TV panels, televised interviews, online media discussion and even multi-hour podcasts. You couldn't go to a media space where pro-splicing advocates weren't making their case.

Well, except for only the most extreme anti-splicing media channels who refused to invite on or except any requests to appear from anyone in the pro-splicing movement. And those channels barely spoke about the terrorist attack at all. In part because they knew the act was unjustifiable and on the other they were afraid of being sued by the pro-splicing groups.

Threats of legal action were made instantly upon them where hints of slander or libel were represented on those channels, making them extremely cautious of the issue. These were people with money and power the anti-splicers were up against. They had to be careful in these circumstances if they wanted to continue this fight, especially in relation to the terror attack. If someone wanted to argue that the pro-splicing lawyers fighting that fight were the highest paid and most active legal field in the world at the moment, it might just be a safe bet.

[Wookey]

We are getting to the good stuff. K+++++

[The Raven]

Lauren and Serenity were at the executive private plane lounge at the airport, awaiting the arrival all their guests. The first was doctor Hartwell and his wife Gloria. Both were somewhat frequent guests upon the island. Gloria looked stunning with her multi-coloured feathers and super-model like physique. You'd never believe she was in her mid 50s with 3 children under her wings. She was a sly woman too, never once answering the question everyone had upon seeing the odd couple.

The mad scientist was also glad to see the young couple. He had many questions about there lifestyle and any unique habits they'd developed since being spliced.

As they chatted, a strange man entered the room. He wore a tailored black suit, black gloves and sunglasses. The young couple didn't recognise the man but they didn't own this lounge so he could have his own flight that he was waiting for. Or he could be the other guest of Serenity's grandparents.

“Excuse me, sir. Would you happen to be Mr Derek Night?” Lauren asked to confirm if he was that guest who would be joining them on their trip to the island. He paused a moment to look over the people in the lounge.

“That's an affirmative. Derek Night, Nightlord Securities. I also take it that you're Ms Weiss? And that would make the intimidating one Ms Conrad.” the man observed.

“Securities? Why are my grandparents? Not important. Why were looking us over?” Serenity asked, confused about the reason for his, invitation.

“I'm private security. I wouldn't be good at my job if I didn't assess the threats of the room.” he answered her coldly.

“Oh, so what are threats in this room, could I ask? You can think of it as a test of your skills.” Serenity taunted.

“The room has only 1 entrance and and additional fire exit. There's sprinkler jets in case of fire and multiple points to take cover in case of gunfire. As for direct threats. The badger man there does possess claws and enhanced arm strength from his splice. He doesn't have great posture though and is clearly unarmed. Easily seen with his attire. The lovely rainbow lorikeet lady over there seems the least familiar with you ladies but is attached to badger man. Probably his wife. Although, I don't mean to be rude with this, she seems clearly out of his league.” he roasted the older couple.

“The most dangerous threat would be you two ladies. That horn wouldn't make a good weapon but your build would provide you enough strength to easily destroy me in combat. If it was a sport with rules, I may stand a chance but that's assuming what I see is supported by common sense.” he continued.

“What do you mean by that?” Lauren asked confused by his phrasing.

“You both are chimera splicers. Neither of you have traits that can easily be pinned down and I've done my research on splicing. Making both of you visual unknowns with underlying dangers I can't predict. Especially the titaness Ms Conrad over there. The only solution if you were the danger is to run through small cramped spaces and hide. Out running you directly feels like an impossibility. And that makes the lovely Ms Weiss here the biggest risk and danger in the room.” he concluded.

“Me? How did you come to that conclusion?” Lauren was shocked.

“When I first looked over the room, the moment my eyes got to you, your protector Ms Conrad over there immediately turned her attention to me. You're not the best at hiding your animosity Ms Conrad. If anything happened to you Ms Weiss, Ms Conrad would lose her cool. Meaning if I was targeting you both, I'd target Ms Weiss first, which would make Ms Conrad more dangerous, but also more vulnerable. And if I was protecting you both, the most care would go to Ms Weiss for those reasons.”

“Okay. I'm impressed. Mr Night.” Serenity complimented.

“If all goes well with your grandparents, we might be working together pretty soon.” Mr Night explained that after the terrorist attack the Conrad couple were looking to hire some private security. And that this was a meeting to negotiate terms. He'd already signed an NDA to cover the meeting.

As he finished his explanation, a giant lizard man arrived pushing a woman on a wheelchair. Neela hadn't lost the ability to walk but she did struggle standing and walking for long periods of time. Roland even 'offered' to carry her if she refused the wheelchair or if those services were unavailable.

With all their guests now here, the young couple escorted them onto the Conrad private jet. It was a very long flight but everyone got along well. Neela sometimes struggled to talk a little and Derek Night mostly stayed to himself. Only speaking when spoken to. Mostly either observing the others or reading a book, possibly pretending do so.

[The Raven]

They were greeted by Reginald, Annabelle and Augustine upon there arrival. Augustine lead Mr Night to his area of the guest house while Annabelle escorted the doctor and his wife to their usual vacation spot. Reginald informed the young couple that the masters wished to speak with them in the conference room, before guiding Roland and Neela to the room they would be staying in. But before he left, he quickly turned around and embraced his granddaughter in a tight hug, whispering to her 'I'm so glad you're okay', before collecting himself and returning to his duties.

This was the young couples first time home since the terrorist attack. An attack they avoided only because of a refuelling issue. They sometimes forgot just how close to danger they were. And seeing Neela's state scared them even more. They had never been hurt that badly before and didn't know how well their bodies could recover from such trauma.

When they arrived at the conference room, the dragon couple were both seated on giant floor cushions. Even then they still looked down upon the young couple. Julia asked for them both to come close to which she pulled them both in for a powerful hug when they did. She was almost in tears being thankful the two of them were safe.

Once Julia released them, they sat across the table from the dragon couple. Preparing for a formal discussion. Joseph asked for a detailed summary of what transpired since they last spoke. Serenity gave a detailed report on the actions taken by their allies and supporters as with plans set up for the near future.

Joseph was quite impressed with the operation Serenity had set up so quickly to react to the attack. They also planned to use the positive press to push forward the latest pro-splicing legislation. And even more interesting, they had several congress people, staffers and potential candidates looking to get spliced themselves in the US. This alone could be a game changer.

And of coarse, they also had Neela and Roland. One part of the agreement for Neela to get this specific splice, was that she'd have to make a media tour about how splicing aided in her recovery. They'd also add in Roland's heroic tale of trying to shield her from harm, and carrying her out for medical assistance.

“This is all good. We need to make the most of this tragedy. Take those positive winds to sail forward. We also have some great news. Dr Hartwell has finally unlocked the next breakthrough in splicing. Splice augmentation. We can now supplement splicers with additional gene-codes with limited risks of destabilization. We can soon sell those prized traits the doctor has been developing with us. Extended lifespan, super strength, armoured skin, regeneration. Even additional physical traits.” Joseph described as he looked to his wife.

“We plan to get a new augmentation ourselves. Even though we know it won't give us the ability to fly, but we plan grow some wings. We've been enjoying our dragon like bodies and we don't want anyone to confuse us for mere lizards ever, again.” Julia described with great pride in her voice. But Lauren still had one question.

“Mrs Conrad. Has the birthing issue been resolved yet? It still remains the greatest obstacle in the mass adoption of splicing.” Lauren expressed her concern. Adding additional splicer traits may appeal to the rich and more fanciful class, but childbirth was a major issue for many individuals let alone the future of splicing.

“This breakthrough has created our first work around the issue.” Julia smirked before Joseph took over.

“If an oddly spliced couple wished to bare children, we can augment both parties to be a better genetic match. At least in theory. We are still doing research on the matter but if this does bare fruit, we will finally have an argument against the childbirth issue plaguing the advancement of splicing.”

“Seriously? Why wouldn't you lead with that?” Serenity asked.

“We lead with the certainty. And besides, all this is for our freedom and pleasure. Growing a pair of beautiful wings to continue our evolution is important to us.” Julia affirmed their priorities.

“And I see that is an appropriate time for myself to join this conversation” said the mad doctor as he walked into the room, escorted by Annabelle.

“The new splicer augmentation treatment is the next grand step in the mass proliferation of splicing. It will even be able to improve us all in this room.” The madman continued, a devilish grin rising across of his face.

“So I assume you've already tested this augmentation process? On yourself, perhaps?” Serenity teased the mad badger.

“Precisely. My wife and I now possess our latest regeneration gene-code and my patented honey badger based invulnerability.” the doctor bragged before adding “We've even tested it too.” before pulling out his phone and showing them all a video.

The video was of his wife shooting him point blank in the stomach with a shotgun. The buckshot pellets falling off his fuzzy belly moments after the shot. The doctor was winded from the force of the blast but his stomach was unscathed.

“Impressive. This is the durability you gave all of us as well?” Joseph inquired.

“The same. I'm still researching even further improvements, but with this current iteration we can have near invulnerable soldiers. Or subordinates.” added the mad badger.

“Why didn't you grant yourself longevity? A brilliant mind like yours should stay around for a long time.” Lauren asked.

“That's an augmentation that can be evaluated at a later time. Oh, and I've finished that lesser super strength gene-code you asked me for Mrs Conrad.”

“Excellent. We don't want anyone being able to out class us. We are the pioneers here. We deserve some privileges for that honour.” Julia boasted.

The mad scientist, young couple and the elderly dragon couple continued discussing their grand conspiracy for complete dominance in the realm of splicing and its future global proliferation.

[The Raven]

I haven't dropped this but updates will be less frequent with other projects taking priority.





The next day, Derek Night was getting nervous. It was a rare experience for him. Even under the most tense and dangerous situations he'd remained calm and conservative. But this upcoming meeting, it could finally free him from the hell he'd fallen into. A hell by the name of Rupert Allen Lord.

When Derek and his unit were unfairly discharged from the military, Derek was offered a lifeline. His unit were special forces that performed mostly off the books or unsanctioned operations. They had been 'requested' by the CIA for there use many times. But when the last one went south, they were made the scapegoats. All of them dishonourably discharged, many even receiving prison sentences.

It was Rupert Lord who came to their 'rescue'. He offered them a path out of prison and back to doing the dirty jobs they were so good at. Derek made the deal with the devil for the freedom of himself and his men. Even though it was his name on the 'security' company, Nightlord, it was Rupert Lord who held all the power.

It wasn't the worst situation Derek had found himself in, or at least that's what he believed at first. They were doing the same kind of jobs but they had more money behind them and were making great money out of it. Until they weren't. Rupert Lord was obviously CIA affiliated but at some point he'd lost there favour. He'd become a pariah to them and all the good paying work dried up.

Derek and his men starting doing significantly more dangerous work, with less money on hand, less resources and for significantly less pay. Rupert was driving the business into the ground while more and more of Derek's men were becoming unable to work from the increased risks. With every job, they came back with more and more injuries. This was unsustainable. Derek knew that, and Rupert Lord didn't care.

He still had every one of them under his thumb, collecting a mountain of blackmail material from all those illicit jobs Derek and his men conducted under Rupert's order.

Derek still had his doubts about this meeting. But the chance, no matter how small, to be free of that bastard Rupert Lord, was worth taking. Especially with the risk being so low. It would only be his life at stake.

Many people who'd met Derek Night, would have all called him a psychopath. A descriptor he wouldn't argue against. But he cared about his men. The men he worked with and trusted for many years now. And he'd fight until his dying breathe to help those men.

So when he was approached by a snarky otter man with a job offer, he was pissed. Well at first he was. He didn't have the power in the company to accept jobs. And to consider fleeing the bastards hand with nothing but a life sentence in prison. Until the otter explained that his employer can free him and his men from Rupert Lord.

Derek escorted the otter to a more private location, one where he was sure they wouldn't be listened in on. The otter didn't know the full details but if Derek accepted a meeting with his employers, they could free him and his men from his living hell. All he had to do was meet with them on their private island.

And so we come to today. Derek wasn't sure what to expect. He'd researched the elderly Conrad couple but there had been little information on them over the past few years. They'd retreated onto their private island and haven taken a great interest in splicing. Not much else is currently known. But after meeting their granddaughter and the other guests that travelled with him, he could tell splicing was a key part of the Conrad's current life.

The granddaughter and her lover were chimera splices. He'd seen them a few times during jobs but never as 'clean' or healthy as the young couple. Chimera splicers usually had defects or disabilities from the process. The scientist that was on the plane. Derek figured that he must be the brains behind fixing the chimera splice problems. He wondered what kind of, augmentation, the elderly couple had went through.

Derek didn't like being unprepared for a situation. And with the possible stakes here, that further drove his nervousness. He was escorted to the meeting room by the tortoise woman he'd met the day before. Annabelle if he remembered her name correctly.

A short moment after she had knocked upon the door, a large, bellowing voice called for them to enter. Derek was most definitely not prepared for what he encountered. This was a couple around 90 years of age. Yet, what lay there before him on cushions larger than king sized mattresses. Were a pair of gigantic dragons.

The large black one looked over Derek before permitting him to take a seat. Annabelle was preparing some tea and coffee for everyone as Derek took a seat, and gathered his thoughts.

“It's a pleasure to meet you Mr Night. I'd like to get straight to the point. We've purchased Nightlord securities from Rupert Lord in its entirety. We've also secured any and all comprising material as to the actions and works committed by yourself and your men from your time in the company.” the male Black Dragon informed him.

“As of now, you could say you work for us. But we have a better offer that should interest you.” he continued.

Derek was already confused. Pushed onto the back foot. What kind of situation has he gotten himself into? He thought he was under the greasy thumb of corrupt bastard but he'd already been sold. Now he was under the claw of a fucking dragon! He did everything he could to keep his cool as continued to listen.

“We'd like to offer you full operational control of Nightlord security. We'll even make sure all that pesky blackmail material goes away. There won't be a single record of any activities that Nightlord or any of its employees doing anything unscrupulous.” the dragon offered.

Annabelle delivered the tea to those seated by the table. Derek couldn't believe this offer. It was too good to be true. Another devil's bargain. What would he lose this time Derek wondered.

“It may sound cliché to say this, but what's the catch?” Derek had to ask. What new kind of hell would he be diving into this time.

“Yes. This kind of offer wouldn't come free. We'd still be the owners. You'd all be paid on salaries which won't look impressive but you all will receive bonuses from any jobs you chose to take. You and your men would even be free to rest on your laurels taking just your small salaries for the next 100 years.” The dragon smiled before sipping tea from a 2 litre cup. Which looked relatively small in his giant clawed hands.

Derek was even more confused. This was a devils' bargain? There had to be a downside. 100 years. So they'd have to 'work' for the company for the rest of their lives. But they also didn't have to actually work and they'd still get paid. There had to be more to this. Derek's glare told the dragon he wanted to hear more.

“If you take this deal, you and all your men will go through some enhanced splicing. You'll have stronger bodies that can even come out unharmed from small caliber bullets. We can even heal all the ailments that blight you and your men with the splicing. We can even regenerate lost limbs. You'll even live much longer lives. So even with being contracted for 100 more years, you will all still have plenty of your lives to still live upon retirement.” Spoke the female crimson dragon for the first time. Her voice both powerful and melodic.

What the hell kind of deal was this? There was no way a deal like this could be legal. But those benefits. His team members, his friends. Could be back to fighting fit once again. It all was too tempting. 100 years of service. All paid for with no obligation to actually work. Then Derek realised what was confusing him so much about all of this.

“What do you get out of this? If we don't work, you don't earn any money from us. Heck, you'd be losing money from the acquisition and the splicing procedures. Is it some sort of game? To have us on a leash for a hundred years?” when it hit.

“I think you've released what we want. You and your men are ex-special forces. With a plethora of experience in covert tactics and no qualms in assassinations. Valuable assets to hold. We want you to work for us. But if we choked you too hard, then we'd only be putting ourselves at risk. We prefer to maintain mutually beneficial relationships. If our partners are happy, not afraid and working for their own benefits. Well, we find those to be the most preferential arrangements for everyone.” The black dragon confessed.

“Our 'interests' would be requesting plenty of work from Nightlord securities. Oh, and feel free to change that name if you'd like. We don't have any attachment to it either.” added the crimson female dragon, curled up next to her husband the black dragon.

Derek continued to think about this offer. It was still too good to be true. Yes there were drawbacks for himself and his people, but those benefits far outweighed the negatives in Derek's mind. And then the puzzle pieces all fit into place when he asked himself one question. Why now? And the answer to everything became clear.

“I'm someone who likes to be clear and direct. I hope it doesn't offend either of you? You see, I'm not certain I could make it out of this room so I'd like an assurance of my safety before speaking my mind.” Derek asked. Trickles of sweat were rolling down his back. His earlier nervousness evolving into outright terror. But he needed confirmation of many things before signing away his future. He'd already done that once before and still regrets it to this day.

“We are not such wild beasts. But there are certain lines you should not dare to cross. You're a smart man Mr Night. I'm sure you can find them before overstepping.” he was warned by the crimson dragon.

“Well, I think you both have knowingly crossed a line. Even making yourselves prisoners on your own island. From your demeanour, you both still haven't went crazy yet or maybe you were both crazy to begin with, I can't say for certain. But you both know you can't stay here forever. You want to change the world for yourselves. I assume you've got some grand plan that's been progressing quite favourably. Especially after that extremist attack. But that's also got you both scared.” he could feel the pressure of an angered dragon from his comments. But he continued.

“Certain key people are required or your plan could be pushed back years, even decades. That's why you want a security team. To protect your assets. But my team isn't your run of the mill bodyguards. We're trained killers. You want us to eliminate the threats early if possible. To further ensure the success of your plan. To accelerate your great liberation into the world as mighty dragons. Am I right?” was Derek's finished conclusion that he declrared.

The wide grins of the dragon couple was all the answer he needed.

“So, what do I need to sign. And when do we get started. I can't say I'm not interested in what crazy splicing idea you have for me and my people.” Derek answered, a thick smirk also growing on his face.

[Wookey]

Thank you. K++++