Weapon X - Chapter 1

“... No, this isn’t right? The cold is-“

“Cease your muttering Mr. Hartnell. Is the Project ready for activation?”

“Y-yes, Dr. Stryker! Performing final calibrations now.”

“Excellent.”

Dr. William Stryker, a tall gaunt man, peered at the array of screens cascading the control room. His skeletal face awash with light from multiple displays, he presided over his team as they frantically made last minute preparations.

At the back of the control room stood a collection of military officials. Their respective uniforms adorned with trappings of high rank, chests puffed with obvious indignation, they glared at Dr. Stryker in distaste.

Dr. Stryker shared the sentiment as he forced a smile to his thin lips and turned towards his guests.

“Gentlemen, thank you for your continued patience, we will begin shortly,” Dr. Stryker said in honeyed tones.

“We have been here all day, Stryker! You are testing the limits of our indulgence,” cried out one of the men in annoyance.

“Does this project of yours even work? All we had are empty promises so far,” piped another.

Dr. Stryker took off his thick glasses and began to methodically wipe them with a piece of cloth he kept for the very purpose.

“Your previous experiments have been disappointing Stryker. What makes this one so special?” challenged a general.

“The Subject possesses natural traits and abilities which have granted us unparalleled success.”

“But-“

“Gentlemen,” he interrupted, holding back the emotion in his voice. “This endeavour of ours will revolutionize the future of warfare. The considerable amount of money and resources you have committed to my work has not been wasted. Rather it has allowed you the potential to build a military force the likes of which the world cannot comprehend.”

Cowed, the officials grunted and shuffled their feet, obviously uncomfortable. Dr. Stryker, discreetly smirking, addressed his subordinates.

“Are we ready?”

“Yes sir! You have full control over the Weapon. Beginning activation on your mark.”

The Doctor looked at the massive screens on the opposite wall displaying the snowy outside.

“Your attention gentlemen. Now you shall see the results of our labour,” he said to the officials without turning, gesturing towards one of the screens. The display showed a humanoid form standing in the snow.

“Is that it?” whispered one of the generals.

Stryker afforded himself another smile.

“Begin the test.”