We Shall Be Monsters [Paragon]

[Legione Sumus]

EPHRAIM HAART

Ephraim’s days were always highly choreographed affairs. He had a meeting with the delightful Lore Dearborn later that afternoon, which he would spend impressing her with glossy dossiers made to illustrate the potential which might result from Cyberpoint’s data. Paragon flourished, but investment was always welcomed. None of his pitch would include Project Ghost, of course, though it was at the forefront of their new acquisition’s application. Victor had everything well in hand, and Ephraim did not lose sleep over ethics. But Dr. Ferrer failed to consider the obvious problem of his clinical methods: Adam was a man. And men were not emotionless constructs.

There were several special cases sequestered in Paragon’s restricted basement laboratories – some temporary, some permanent – and Ephraim ensured a personal connection with each one. He did not dehumanise by calling them their Project names. In fact he treated them with a careful, paternal oversight, a warmth that always came across as genuine. Ephraim was a man who could be trusted. He was a man who always kept the welfare of Paragon’s patients at the top of his priorities.

And he was a liar. But he was the only one who knew it.

Each one received a routine visit. To nurture loyalty, to keep the bonds fresh. In Adam they created a monster quite literally after all. Victor might think himself immune, else not consider the possibility of the wolf that bites, but Ephraim would not be so short sighted.

The corridors were sterile, and his shoes clicked as he strode them. Beyond the polished steel door the sterility vanished though; each domicile was modified to be comfortable to its inhabitant’s wishes. Ephraim knocked. Privacy was a gift he bestowed with intention.

“Adam?” he called through the door. “Are you decent?”