Excerpt from Mortals As They Walk: scene 4 – the bioengineering project

He set his cup down and leaned forward, his face coming alive. “I cannot speak of details, because I do not understand many and because I cannot tell you until you agree. The project combines biogenetics, bioengineering, synthetic biology, computer science, and more. It is very exciting and very new.”

I was surprised. This had nothing to do with my degree or my experience. “To what end? I thought human genetic engineering was illegal? Wasn’t there some big hoopla in China years ago, some guy engineering the DNA of babies?”

“It is not illegal, but restricted by both national and international laws. It is why this project is so important. One of the few that can proceed. It is why so many organizations want to fund it with big money.”

“Lots of money.”

“Yes. It is as I say.”

“Okay. So why me? I know nothing about those areas except computer science. Even so, nothing with biological applications.”

“You are not selected for your expertise. You are selected for your biological characteristics.”

“Biological characteristics.”

“Yes. The project is primarily a medical study. It requires test subjects.”

“Test subjects. Like—”

“I will finish, please. The study seeks to learn and increase positive human characteristics. Health, mental, emotional, more. Everything that makes human. You have a unique set of biological characteristics in the twenty areas they seek.”

“Ah. So they want to clone me because I am such a specimen of manhood?”

“No cloning. Human cloning is even more restricted than genetic engineering. But not the purpose of this project.”

“So what is the purpose?”

“To make better humans.”

I shook my head. “Sounds like some bad superhero movie.”

“No. You misunderstand me. It is a problem of language. I speak English not as good as you.”

“As well.”

“Yes, very well.”

I shook my head. “Try again.”

“Okay.” He sat back. “Today, many humans suffer from genetic disease. Or are…easily contract some disease. Some have mental deficient. Some have problem with emotional control. Many things. But some people have less problems. It is all built into the genetic code. I am no expert. But it is to learn from the humans who have the best characteristics, and, using the new technology, to use genetic engineering, biotechnology, nanotechnology, to help everyone be as good.

 “Still sounds like Nazi research. And you are from Germany.” I knew how rude that was, but I was rather put off. I was hoping someone wanted my skills so that I could contribute what I was good at and enjoy. Not some passive subject for some short test. 

He sat back as if I had hit him, and his face flushed.

“I…I do not know why you say that. It is much insulting. How do you know I am from Germany?”

“Your accent.”

“I could be from many Baltic countries. But I told you I was from Austria.”

“No. You told me you were sent from Austria. Your accent is less Austrian and more mainstream German. From the central or northern area, would guess. Also, your specific vocabulary choices and grammar. The food and amount you are eating. The label on the inside of your jacket is from a high-end clothier that is only located in Berlin. None that is definitive, of course, but makes it more likely than not are a German native.”

A big grin spread across his face and he nodded. “It is good! This is the example of your genetic characteristics. Your observation skills and ability to analyze.” The Nazi insult was apparently forgotten.

“Flattery will get you nowhere. What does the successful end of this project look like?”

“Ach so.” He leaned forward. If nothing else, this guy believed in this project and did not seem to be trying to manipulate me. “Genetic modifications, maybe in vitro modifications, maybe biological nanotechnology on infants or fetus, maybe modification of bone marrow production DNA. This is what the experiments are for—to find the best way. To someday provide procedure to increase the quality of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual quality of life.”

“Sounds illegal. Or should be.”

He looked hurt. “No. If you think it, then you do not understand what I am saying. Perhaps we have a language problem. My English is not best.”

“No joke.”