An Iguana

Cross-species genetics, put simply, was the idea of splicing together DNA from different species to give a test subject the cellular abilities of another species.

In fact, by 2011, this sort of technology was already fairly common. It had been used in medicine since 1982, and genetically modified tomatoes had appeared on the American market as early as the 1990s.

But what Connors wanted to study now was something else entirely-he wanted to transplant beneficial lizard genes into humans.

"I believe it's feasible. At the Osborn Group, they successfully created genetically engineered spiders combining traits from multiple spider species, and they've been trying to develop more commercial applications using their silk as a model.

All I need to do is take it one step further and transfer the genes from a carrier of superior genetic material into a human."

Dr. Connors's laboratory housed plenty of reptiles, mostly lizards.

With a scan from his Kiroshi Cyber-Eye, Lier quickly found the reptiles' names online. Most were common species, with geckos making up the largest number.

"But I've run into some trouble... I designed a Decay Algorithm for trimming DNA.

First, we integrate a large amount of DNA into the primary test subject. Under the effects of a decay-inducing drug, the unwanted genes undergo systematic breakdown and methylation, ultimately leaving behind stable, usable integrated genes.

The idea actually came from another old friend of mine, and it's already been validated at the Osborn Group."

"Dr. Richard Parker?" Lier had also found the paper online. It was by Spider-Man's parents.

Connors looked surprised. "Yes, but they... died. The Osborn Group wants me to take over the resources allocated to the couple's project."

Lier nodded slightly. "I'm guessing the problem is an incorrect decay rate. Either complete degradation renders the integrated DNA ineffective, or the subject's genes undergo uncontrollable mutations."

"How did you know? Matt told me you were an IT specialist, but..."

"I crammed last night."

Lier had already crammed a great deal of technological history from the future.

The Decay Algorithm had also appeared in the world of 2077, where ethical boundaries had long since been shattered.

Human experiments involving cross-species genetic modification had appeared as early as the mid-twentieth century. Whether it involved transferring animal DNA into humans or transferring human DNA into animals to grow usable human organs, it was an immensely profitable business.

If there was money to be made, corporations would research it.

Unfortunately, during the massive blackout caused by Bartmoss, research reports of this kind had either been destroyed or left stranded on the old net.

The good news was... Biotechnica had preserved and put into use a great many similar, fully developed technologies-he now had a clear target.

Once his shock subsided, Connors reassessed Lier-the partner who had originally come to him as a volunteer.

Lier continued, "I'm guessing your original plan was to observe the DNA breakdown happening inside my body and find a way to use ionizing radiation to refine and correct the model."

"Mm... yes, you figured it out." Connors smiled ruefully. "But... before that, there's still a lot I'm missing. Look around."

Connors spread his hands. All around them were reptiles of every kind.

There was also a great deal of cutting-edge biological research equipment, but Lier could tell at a glance that it wasn't enough.

Understanding molecular genetics alone wouldn't be enough to complete this research. They would also have to develop new hardware.

Connors needed staff, more samples, and... money.

"I'm out of money. The funding the university gives me is nowhere near enough. I can't even take the first step.

So far, I've tried integrating DNA into several common reptiles, but the subjects always fail to withstand the integration.

I have two possible avenues for improvement: one is to upgrade the DNA-trimming technology to reduce redundant DNA; the other is to improve the quality of the recipient.

I suspect an iguana species from the Lesser Antilles has a very good chance of surviving genetic integration, but I can't get hold of any data.

You give me too much credit. This project is still in its early stages."

After finishing, Dr. Connors glanced at his desk. Lier followed his gaze and saw a document.

It read "Osborn Group."

"The Osborn Group invited me to take over the Parkers' research and promised me the best resources. I would also be able to see their results.

That would speed things up enormously, but..."

Connors looked at Lier. "If I do that, I'll have no say in how the technology is used-you know, there are reports that Norman Osborn works closely with the military. He may even be involved in a revival of the Super-Soldier Program.

I want to use this technology to save people, not let politicians trick a bunch of young men into marching onto foreign soil to burn, kill, and loot.

That... is something I once did."

Lier looked into Dr. Connors's eyes and snapped his fingers, brimming with confidence. "That's an easy problem to solve, Doctor. We can become partners."

"Lier... I'd like that too, but..."

"Don't turn me down just yet, Professor." Lier raised one finger. "Yes, compared to the Osborn Group, I'm broke as hell.

But we share the same goal. I can guarantee this technology won't be used in wars of aggression, and you'll have a say in how it's used.

Second... I can prove myself-give me a few days, and I can get you DNA data for the Lesser Antillean Iguana. We can start with data simulations."

"You?" Professor Connors looked astonished. "How would you get it?"

Of course, Lier couldn't tell him that he already had one-the iguana Jackie had smuggled in happened to be exactly what Connors needed.

Since they needed to lie low, they still had all the smuggled goods and hadn't sold them off.

Transmitting an entire lizard would be a hassle, but data alone would pose no problem.

"I'm serious, Professor.

On top of that, I'll provide you with more technical support and... a modest amount of funding."

As he spoke, Lier shrugged. "But I believe it'll be enough for a small, honest, transparent team like ours."

The blond Professor Connors didn't look particularly handsome or dashing. If anything, his hair was thinning.

Honestly, the first impression this professor gave was one of exhaustion and weariness.

He was trapped by his dream, just one step away from having nothing left in his head but Get the money first. Worry about the rest later.

But Connors's problem was merely an arm that wouldn't grow back, while Lier's was death chasing relentlessly at his heels-

This young man was far calmer than he was.

Connors stared at Lier in a daze, then shook his head with a rueful smile.

"I really am getting worse with age. Well, congratulations. You've been promoted from volunteer to partner."

Perhaps his outlook had suddenly changed, because Connors even cracked a joke.

Lier shrugged. "Congratulations to you too. When you look back someday, you'll be glad you chose me."

Just as Lier finished speaking, a system notification chimed in his head.

[Cross-plane connection has exceeded one hour]

[Tech Points -20]

[Current Tech Points: 320]

Lier's expression froze.

Damn that round-up mechanic.

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