November 15, 2000
Paragon City, Steel Canyon:
Carolyn Carter looked over the presentation one last time. The US Department of Defense wasnt an easy customer, and if this went well, Radion Technologies, Inc. would land one of the most lucrative contracts in DoD history, with her firms technologies as the basis for much of the FutureSolider initiative.
She stood as the military officers and government officials entered the conference room. Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. Please take a seat, and we can begin. Im looking forward to showing you what Radion Technologies can bring to the FutureSoldier initiative
The last of the questions had been asked, and answered. The overall vibe in the room had been quite positive, she mused. Although everyone was careful not to display any undue enthusiasm, shed detected some impressed expressions over the data presented. She knew the current state of the art available from the competition, and her catalytic containment reactor design would provide a quantum leap in the power available for a man-portable system, enabling heretofore-unavailable capabilities.
So much for the good news. Now, for the bad - her meeting with the Crey representatives and the board was this afternoon. Crey had been interested in her designs, as well as her company, since she left Stanford and formed Radion. More than once Carolyn suspected them of funding roadblocks to her success, but she had navigated the corporate jungle well - the problem was of a different sort than quantum tunneling heavy particle interactions, but not really more difficult. Carolyn was proud of the innovations she had fostered, and the company she had formed to realize them. Crey wasnt going to buy her out now and, with the boards backing, there wasnt anything they could do about it.
and so while the Board appreciates Creys interest in our company, and the generous offer on the table, we feel that it would not be in the best interests of the shareholders to accept. Our prospects for future earnings potential are substantial, and the board believes they can best be realized as an independent organization, rather than as a subsidiary of Crey. We would look forward with interest, however, to possible joint projects in the future. We thank you for your time, Mr. Karis. The slick looking young man in the well-tailored suit made a carefully metered frown of disappointment I see. And that is your final response to our bid? he asked Yes, Im afraid it is. replied Carolyn. I feel - and I speak for the board as well - that we have a brighter future on our own. The young man nodded, closing his briefcase and standing Very well. I believe youre making a mistake, and a rather serious one at that - but if your minds are made up, then theyre made up. Thank you for your time.
Polite murmurs of conversation ensued as the meeting broke up. Carolyn turned to a quiet Excuse me, Dr. Carter? from behind her. Turning from her CFO, she found Mr. Karis standing politely behind her. Yes? she queried. Id like to personally express my regret that we were unable to come to an agreement. The Countess was - and remains - personally interested in this acquisition, and she will be most disappointed that we were unable to consummate an agreement. Carolyn glanced at him Its not that your offer was unreasonable, Mr. Karis - its simply that this company is my brainchild, and I want to see it grow and evolve on its own, rather than just become another cog in an international megacorp. Be sure my accountants were quite definite about the possible advantages, and the substantial personal profit that Im forgoing by not taking advantage of this. The man nodded. I see. Well, I wanted to be sure there was no stone unturned to avoid this result - as I said, the Countess will be displeased, and thats something everyone who works for Crey does their best to avoid. A wry grin followed. But thats as may be. A very good evening to you, Doctor. And with that he turned, and left the conference room.
Two months later, Washington, D.C.:
and the contract for the Bradley Armored Combat Environment System is awarded to Radion Technologies. While the proposals from General Dynamics, Lockheed Aerospace, and Crey Industries met or exceeded the design requirements, the proposal from Radion was the clear winner on both a cost and performance basis. We look forward to working with Radion on the future of systems to enhance the warfighting capabilities of the individual soldier
Paragon City, Steel Canyon:
individual soldier The celebrating staff largely ignored the voice from the press conference. While the company had been confident in their bid, until the contract was granted one never knew for sure. Hey! Carolyn! a young voice rose above the excited background murmur does this mean we all get a raise? laughter ensued from a substantial portion of the crowd. Im afraid, Gary, that what it means is weve all got a lot of work to do around here replied Carolyn, raising a glass a toast to the future - were going to change the world ladies and gentlemen. And not just on the battlefield, but the lives of every man, woman, and child on the planet will be improved by the technologies were going to develop here. You should be very proud of yourselves, and proud of all the hard work youre going to be doing starting tomorrow. She grinned at the groans, catcalls, and bits of thrown popcorn thrown her way. Seriously, folks - enjoy the afternoon, take the rest of the week off, and come back recharged and ready on Monday. Weve got an aggressive deadline to meet, and a demanding customer who we dont want to disappoint. Cheers! applause (and the occasional bit of popcorn) greeted this announcement, and Carolyn began to work her way towards the elevator.
Excuse me - Carolyn? She turned at the hand on her arm. Jacob Mallory, her long-time friend and CFO was looking at her Some of the larger institutional investors have requested a board meeting to discuss Creys new offer. Theyve proposed this Friday. A quorum of the rest of the board is available, if it will work for you. Carolyn shook her head, sighing, They just cant take No for an answer, can they? Very well, Jacob, if they want another official No, well give them one. Her eyes narrowed There isnt any skullduggery going on behind the scenes, is there, Jacob? she asked. We are still in control, are we not? Jacob nodded. Oh, yes Crey has put some pressure on some of the institutional investors to grab for the short-term profits accepting would realize, but the only three members of the board that were inclined to accept cant make it. Im pretty sure they just dont want to be associated with the failure. Carolyn shrugged. Well, the shareholders have rights - even the right to be annoying. a grin Im sure Ive annoyed them often enough in the past. Go ahead and schedule it, Jacob.
Paragon Times Special Edition, Friday, Jan 19th, 2001:
...claimed responsibility for the explosion at the Steel Canyon offices of Radion Technologies, Inc. A spokesman for the 5th Column stated that The Column will prevent this evil company from providing the tools to oppress the helpless around the world. City officials have no comment at this time. The Radion board was meeting in the building at the time, and while we know there are casualties, the details have yet to be released to the public.
Paragon Times, Saturday, Jan 20th, 2001:
...and Crey would like to extend our condolences to the employees, friends, and loved ones impacted by this disaster. We share in your feelings of loss and outrage, and hope that you will join us in remembering Allen Karis - a dedicated employee of Crey, who was unfortunately lost in the explosion as well.
Financial Times, Wednesday, February 28th, 2001:
...with nine members of the board killed in the explosion, and Dr. Carolyn Carter in critical condition, the remaining members of the board have voted, under the emergency powers section of the articles of incorporation, to accept the buyout. We know this isnt what Dr. Carter would have wanted, said Meredith Smythe, speaking for the board, but in this moment of crisis, with so much of the companys leadership gone, we felt that the guidance and stability guaranteed by the Crey offer was the responsible decision to make. Should she recover, Im sure she will understand the difficult decision we had to make.
Paragon City, Cygnus Medical Center, Peregrine Island, July 13, 2001:
Carter? Dr. Carter, can you hear me? The voice was unfamiliar, and concerned. She hurt - her entire upper body hurt. She tried to speak, but that was hard - a nearly unintelligible Yes came out, slurred and faint. Doctor! Shes conscious! ...more scurrying noises. She tried to move, to open her eyes, but it wasnt happening. Just thinking was hard. Dr. Carter? This is Dr. Meadows; Im your physician. What is the last thing you remember? Remember? Where was she? Thinking was so very hard I was meeting. Board meeting her voice was still a shadow of its former self, but less slurred. Crey there was another offer, wed turned them down again, and then there was I cant there wasnt anything. OK, OK, thats good, Dr. Carter, very good. Your memories seem largely intact. Thats quite promising. came the voice. Promising? What happened? Where am I? Why cant I open my eyes - or move!?
She wasnt panicking - yet - but something was very wrong here. Please remain calm, Dr. Carter. Youre in the hospital - Cygnus Medical Center, to be precise. You suffered major trauma from the explosion of a bomb in your building. A bomb? She tried to remember anything past the blackness, but there was nothing there. Nothing. A bomb? Who why? The board? There was a long pause. Im afraid you were the only person in the room to survive, Carolyn. Most were killed outright in the explosion, and we lost the others soon after. We werent sure you were going to make it, either. Im very glad that youre conscious, and coherent. Its a very good sign, Dr. Carter. But you need to rest now. a murmur she couldnt quite make out, and her protest died aborning as she slipped back into the darkness.
One week later:
So, Im missing my right arm, my left eye, the right will never see more than simple light/darkness again, and Im paralyzed from the waist down. Anything else I should know about? the wry tone of voice surprised her. She herself wasnt sure if the rip it off slowly or all at once school was better, but the doctors here seemed to be of the all at once camp. After putting off her questions one too many times, shed finally demanded answers - answers she wasnt sure she really wanted, now that she had them.
No, Carolyn, nothing else missing - well, the hair, we shaved that off, but it will grow back. The tone of voice was smiling, even if she couldnt see the smile. Perhaps she was taking this better than they expected? You were expecting me to rail at the fates, Doctor? a grim chuckle Well, Ill admit to a rather large desire to rage at the universe for this. And for all those who were... that thought choked her up; it took some time to continue... were lost in the explosion. At least Im still here to complain. Her voice firmed again.
The physician cleared his throat, Well, we have therapists available Carolyn - I strongly recommend you spend some time with one - even if you arent throwing things at your doctors, this sort of trauma isnt just physical - and youll need to treat that side of things every bit as much as the rest. But for now, you have a visitor, if youre feeling up to it. A visitor? Carolyn asked. Who? she asked. A Gary Chambers the doctor replied. Gary? Here? Id love to se talk to him. she finished, not quite as briskly as shed begun. Yes, very well, Ill see hes sent in. Dont stress yourself Dr. Carter, Ive done a good job here, and I dont want you messing things up - the paperwork would be hell was his quip as he exited the room.
Dr. Carter? Carolyn? My god are you the voice was shocked. Rather the worse for wear Im afraid, Gary, but still here. They claim theres a chair or two around here, pull up a seat. Its great to see you again, Carolyn. When we heard about the explosion well, we all thought that That Id be an ex-physicist? Gone pining for the fiords? That got a laugh. Well, I see the sense of humor hasnt changed, Doctor. They did their best Gary, but there are some things surgeons just cant fix. Rather a lot of things, in my case, it seems. You look Well, you look awful, to be honest. he said, quickly. She snorted. Im sure Ive looked better. But Im glad you came Gary. I need to know what happened - to the company, to my work, my house - the rest of my life. Whats happened over the last six months? Well he began
and that about covers it. Crey owns the company now - youre rich beyond the dreams of avarice, your cat misses you, your house is fine - we moved the stuff from your lab and office there before the board sold us, by the way - and Im now a junior employee of the RadionTech division of Crey Industries. Yay. She shook her head. The 5th Column? Those Nazi crazies on the street-corners? They claimed responsibility. The PPD investigated - and there were rumblings about heroes, and maybe the DoD looking further, but nothing - at least nothing public came of it. Technically, I think the case is still open. Carolyn shook her head. It just doesnt seem like something they would do. But Im going to find out for sure. Whoever did this - Im going to find out. Youre going to find out? How? Gary replied. I mean, forgive me Carolyn, but youre stuck in this bed - you cant walk, you cant even see. How are you going to She interrupted him. I dont know Gary, not right now. I have some ideas and you say Ive got a lot of money. Well, thats more than I had when I started then, all I had were the ideas.
She pondered for a moment. First, I have to get out of this hospital room. She thought again, So, you didnt sound altogether thrilled by your new position, Gary. Any chance youd be open to a career change? she asked. Me? A career change? What did you have in mind, Carolyn? he asked, doubt and interest competing in the tone of his voice.
Well, I may have ideas and money, Gary, but what I dont have is eyes, hands or legs. While I might eventually be able to address some of that list maybe even all of it, given some time I cant do it myself. Howd you like to be employee #1 of Carter Technologies, Ltd.? She smiled. Me? You want to hire me away from Crey? Carolyn nodded. Yep. Youre a talented engineer, Gary and Im going to need one - more than one, in fact. But beyond that, I trust you. And I think Im going to need that more than anything else. Somethings not right here and were going to find out what it is...
Six months later;
...Just one more connection... he said, absent-mindedly, and that should do it. Anything? He asked. Carolyn, sitting in her wheelchair, tried to open her eyes. It had been months since that effort had been anything other than futile, and there was an element of trepidation now. What if it didnt work? But no... There was something... Its not all dark, Gary, but Im not... and then, with a shimmer of video artifacts, the room swam into view. It wasnt perfect, but she was seeing. Seeing again for the first time since the explosion! I can... I can see, Gary. I can see! She saw the triumphant expression on his face all the more wonderful for the fact that she could see it, and not just rely on her hearing. Thats just he had to stop for a moment, thats just great, Carolyn.
He looked over at the displays monitoring the hardware behind the miracle. And the processors are keeping up just fine. I think once we move some of the software into FPFGAs, or get some custom silicon built, you may be right. We may be able to miniaturize this down to something that will fit in an eyeball, rather than a box under the wheelchair. He shook his head. You know, I built this thing, and I understand everything we did to make it but Id never have come up with it myself in a thousand years. He grinned. I guess thats why youre the billionaire genius, and Im just a glorified solder-jockey. Carolyn snorted. Solder-jockey. Spare me the false modesty, Gary your name is on several of the patents we have ready to file on this. And Ms. genius over here wouldnt have gotten the programming done in less than a year, even when she could see and type with both hands. So dont sell yourself short. She smiled, Besides, once this tech goes commercial, youre going to be independently wealthy yourself. Im not the only person on the planet thats going to owe her sight to your work, Gary. Im just the first. Thank you. Yes, um, well, youre welcome. He replied.
Paragon Times, March 5th, 2003:
Carter Technologies, Ltd. announces prosthetic breakthrough - Dr. Carolyn Carter was on hand today to announce the filing for FDA approval of the ChambersOptics line of prosthetic vision systems. These devices can literally give sight to the blind, stated Dr. Carter at the news conference. I am a living example of the benefits. After the explosion, I was unable to see - and now, with the aid of these artificial eyes, Ive got 20/20 vision again. While its a personal miracle for me, I feel most honored to announce today that the Mallory Foundation will be providing grants for those who cannot personally afford these devices, bringing the miracle of sight to many who would otherwise be unable to afford it. Carter Technologies is the second company founded by Dr. Carter. The first, Radion Technologies, Inc., was purchased by Crey Industries, and is now a leading defense subcontractor.
Later that evening;
So, the Mk. VII graviton phase field generators work in the simulators - the parts have been ordered. Theyll arrive in thirty days. The nano-fabricators are finishing up the up-rated and down-sized catalytic fusion cells; those should be ready to test this week. He looked up from the list. Im not sure why the mania for miniaturization, boss? Or what the heck all of this is for? The second generation spinal link hardware fits in the chair, why are we shrinking it still? Compact X-ray lasers whose exciters are triggered by short-range transmitted power? Pulsed radiation fields? Nanotechnology healing remotes? Advanced target-tracking and identification systems? Whats going on, boss? Youve been cagey about things ever since the last PI gave you his report. Which you never let me read, by the way. He sounded aggrieved.
Carolyn thought for a moment, and then came to a decision. Well, Gary, I was thinking that I might be able to keep you from being involved. She shook her head. But that wasnt fair of me. Its not my decision to make. You lost a lot in the explosion too and if you want to help me bring down those responsible, well, dangerous or not, that rightfully should be your decision. Gary looked shocked. You know something? Carolyn nodded. Cant prove it in a court of law, but yes, Gary. I know something. It wasnt the 5th Column that planted that bomb. It wasnt them at all... She paused Are you sure you want me to go on? Once you know, your life will be in danger. Mine is already, and I only hope that detective took my advice, and the rather large bonus, and disappeared. I can use your help, Gary, but if youd rather not know, nows the time to stop.
She gave him credit he actually thought about it. No, Dr. Carter. I didnt lose as much as you did that day, but I lost friends, and co-workers. If I can help bring those responsible to justice, then count me in. He leaned forward, Now, spill it, lady. Who are the bastards that did this?
It was well-hidden, but there was a trail - at the end of it? Well, at the end of the trail is Crey Industries, Gary. The bastards that did this to us are Crey. The usually light and pleasant voice had gone flat with menace. And Im going to make them sorry they ever even thought of doing this. With visible effort, she got under control. But we have to be careful, Gary. First, Crey is a mega-corp. It employs tens of thousands of people, most of whom cannot have any idea that their company does this sort of thing. Gary, whose expression was as grim as hers no doubt was, sounded skeptical, And second? He asked. Second, she replied, determination in her voice now Secondly, Gary, we cant let ourselves become like them. Were looking into an abyss here, and we cant let the abyss look too deeply into ourselves, or well be lost. She shook her head Before I let myself become like them, Ill go back to that hospital, blind and crippled, Gary. I swear.
She gestured at the lab around them. Theres the potential here to do a great deal of harm, Gary. If I wished, I could destroy... well, I could destroy this city, a wry grin no need to mention that to anyone, is there? Gary chuckled, my lips are sealed, boss. She laughed in return. Seriously, though. If I allow myself to wallow in unchecked vengeance, Im no better than those Arachnos scum on the news or any of the other villains that Paragon Citys heroes fight on a daily basis.
She wheeled over to her private terminal. And, since youre willing to help, and since were on the subject of heroes... she tapped one-handed at the keyboard. You can help me with this. The main holo-projector in the room powered up with a low hum, and laser beams flickered into existence, piece-by-piece rendering an armored figure a figure that would come to be a familiar sight in the skies above Paragon City, the green and white armor of You can help me bring the Synchrotron armored battle suit to reality, Gary. You can help me become a hero.
Synchrotron, level 50 Radiation/Radiation Defender
Fighting crime on Champion since 2004
November 15, 2000
Paragon City, Steel Canyon:
Carolyn Carter looked over the presentation one last time. The US Department of Defense wasnt an easy customer, and if this went well, Radion Technologies, Inc. would land one of the most lucrative contracts in DoD history, with her firms technologies as the basis for much of the FutureSolider initiative.
She stood as the military officers and government officials entered the conference room. Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. Please take a seat, and we can begin. Im looking forward to showing you what Radion Technologies can bring to the FutureSoldier initiative
The last of the questions had been asked, and answered. The overall vibe in the room had been quite positive, she mused. Although everyone was careful not to display any undue enthusiasm, shed detected some impressed expressions over the data presented. She knew the current state of the art available from the competition, and her catalytic containment reactor design would provide a quantum leap in the power available for a man-portable system, enabling heretofore-unavailable capabilities.
So much for the good news. Now, for the bad - her meeting with the Crey representatives and the board was this afternoon. Crey had been interested in her designs, as well as her company, since she left Stanford and formed Radion. More than once Carolyn suspected them of funding roadblocks to her success, but she had navigated the corporate jungle well - the problem was of a different sort than quantum tunneling heavy particle interactions, but not really more difficult. Carolyn was proud of the innovations she had fostered, and the company she had formed to realize them. Crey wasnt going to buy her out now and, with the boards backing, there wasnt anything they could do about it.
and so while the Board appreciates Creys interest in our company, and the generous offer on the table, we feel that it would not be in the best interests of the shareholders to accept. Our prospects for future earnings potential are substantial, and the board believes they can best be realized as an independent organization, rather than as a subsidiary of Crey. We would look forward with interest, however, to possible joint projects in the future. We thank you for your time, Mr. Karis. The slick looking young man in the well-tailored suit made a carefully metered frown of disappointment I see. And that is your final response to our bid? he asked Yes, Im afraid it is. replied Carolyn. I feel - and I speak for the board as well - that we have a brighter future on our own. The young man nodded, closing his briefcase and standing Very well. I believe youre making a mistake, and a rather serious one at that - but if your minds are made up, then theyre made up. Thank you for your time.
Polite murmurs of conversation ensued as the meeting broke up. Carolyn turned to a quiet Excuse me, Dr. Carter? from behind her. Turning from her CFO, she found Mr. Karis standing politely behind her. Yes? she queried. Id like to personally express my regret that we were unable to come to an agreement. The Countess was - and remains - personally interested in this acquisition, and she will be most disappointed that we were unable to consummate an agreement. Carolyn glanced at him Its not that your offer was unreasonable, Mr. Karis - its simply that this company is my brainchild, and I want to see it grow and evolve on its own, rather than just become another cog in an international megacorp. Be sure my accountants were quite definite about the possible advantages, and the substantial personal profit that Im forgoing by not taking advantage of this. The man nodded. I see. Well, I wanted to be sure there was no stone unturned to avoid this result - as I said, the Countess will be displeased, and thats something everyone who works for Crey does their best to avoid. A wry grin followed. But thats as may be. A very good evening to you, Doctor. And with that he turned, and left the conference room.
Two months later, Washington, D.C.:
and the contract for the Bradley Armored Combat Environment System is awarded to Radion Technologies. While the proposals from General Dynamics, Lockheed Aerospace, and Crey Industries met or exceeded the design requirements, the proposal from Radion was the clear winner on both a cost and performance basis. We look forward to working with Radion on the future of systems to enhance the warfighting capabilities of the individual soldier
Paragon City, Steel Canyon:
individual soldier The celebrating staff largely ignored the voice from the press conference. While the company had been confident in their bid, until the contract was granted one never knew for sure. Hey! Carolyn! a young voice rose above the excited background murmur does this mean we all get a raise? laughter ensued from a substantial portion of the crowd. Im afraid, Gary, that what it means is weve all got a lot of work to do around here replied Carolyn, raising a glass a toast to the future - were going to change the world ladies and gentlemen. And not just on the battlefield, but the lives of every man, woman, and child on the planet will be improved by the technologies were going to develop here. You should be very proud of yourselves, and proud of all the hard work youre going to be doing starting tomorrow. She grinned at the groans, catcalls, and bits of thrown popcorn thrown her way. Seriously, folks - enjoy the afternoon, take the rest of the week off, and come back recharged and ready on Monday. Weve got an aggressive deadline to meet, and a demanding customer who we dont want to disappoint. Cheers! applause (and the occasional bit of popcorn) greeted this announcement, and Carolyn began to work her way towards the elevator.
Excuse me - Carolyn? She turned at the hand on her arm. Jacob Mallory, her long-time friend and CFO was looking at her Some of the larger institutional investors have requested a board meeting to discuss Creys new offer. Theyve proposed this Friday. A quorum of the rest of the board is available, if it will work for you. Carolyn shook her head, sighing, They just cant take No for an answer, can they? Very well, Jacob, if they want another official No, well give them one. Her eyes narrowed There isnt any skullduggery going on behind the scenes, is there, Jacob? she asked. We are still in control, are we not? Jacob nodded. Oh, yes Crey has put some pressure on some of the institutional investors to grab for the short-term profits accepting would realize, but the only three members of the board that were inclined to accept cant make it. Im pretty sure they just dont want to be associated with the failure. Carolyn shrugged. Well, the shareholders have rights - even the right to be annoying. a grin Im sure Ive annoyed them often enough in the past. Go ahead and schedule it, Jacob.
Paragon Times Special Edition, Friday, Jan 19th, 2001:
...claimed responsibility for the explosion at the Steel Canyon offices of Radion Technologies, Inc. A spokesman for the 5th Column stated that The Column will prevent this evil company from providing the tools to oppress the helpless around the world. City officials have no comment at this time. The Radion board was meeting in the building at the time, and while we know there are casualties, the details have yet to be released to the public.
Paragon Times, Saturday, Jan 20th, 2001:
...and Crey would like to extend our condolences to the employees, friends, and loved ones impacted by this disaster. We share in your feelings of loss and outrage, and hope that you will join us in remembering Allen Karis - a dedicated employee of Crey, who was unfortunately lost in the explosion as well.
Financial Times, Wednesday, February 28th, 2001:
...with nine members of the board killed in the explosion, and Dr. Carolyn Carter in critical condition, the remaining members of the board have voted, under the emergency powers section of the articles of incorporation, to accept the buyout. We know this isnt what Dr. Carter would have wanted, said Meredith Smythe, speaking for the board, but in this moment of crisis, with so much of the companys leadership gone, we felt that the guidance and stability guaranteed by the Crey offer was the responsible decision to make. Should she recover, Im sure she will understand the difficult decision we had to make.
Paragon City, Cygnus Medical Center, Peregrine Island, July 13, 2001:
Carter? Dr. Carter, can you hear me? The voice was unfamiliar, and concerned. She hurt - her entire upper body hurt. She tried to speak, but that was hard - a nearly unintelligible Yes came out, slurred and faint. Doctor! Shes conscious! ...more scurrying noises. She tried to move, to open her eyes, but it wasnt happening. Just thinking was hard. Dr. Carter? This is Dr. Meadows; Im your physician. What is the last thing you remember? Remember? Where was she? Thinking was so very hard I was meeting. Board meeting her voice was still a shadow of its former self, but less slurred. Crey there was another offer, wed turned them down again, and then there was I cant there wasnt anything. OK, OK, thats good, Dr. Carter, very good. Your memories seem largely intact. Thats quite promising. came the voice. Promising? What happened? Where am I? Why cant I open my eyes - or move!?
She wasnt panicking - yet - but something was very wrong here. Please remain calm, Dr. Carter. Youre in the hospital - Cygnus Medical Center, to be precise. You suffered major trauma from the explosion of a bomb in your building. A bomb? She tried to remember anything past the blackness, but there was nothing there. Nothing. A bomb? Who why? The board? There was a long pause. Im afraid you were the only person in the room to survive, Carolyn. Most were killed outright in the explosion, and we lost the others soon after. We werent sure you were going to make it, either. Im very glad that youre conscious, and coherent. Its a very good sign, Dr. Carter. But you need to rest now. a murmur she couldnt quite make out, and her protest died aborning as she slipped back into the darkness.
One week later:
So, Im missing my right arm, my left eye, the right will never see more than simple light/darkness again, and Im paralyzed from the waist down. Anything else I should know about? the wry tone of voice surprised her. She herself wasnt sure if the rip it off slowly or all at once school was better, but the doctors here seemed to be of the all at once camp. After putting off her questions one too many times, shed finally demanded answers - answers she wasnt sure she really wanted, now that she had them.
No, Carolyn, nothing else missing - well, the hair, we shaved that off, but it will grow back. The tone of voice was smiling, even if she couldnt see the smile. Perhaps she was taking this better than they expected? You were expecting me to rail at the fates, Doctor? a grim chuckle Well, Ill admit to a rather large desire to rage at the universe for this. And for all those who were... that thought choked her up; it took some time to continue... were lost in the explosion. At least Im still here to complain. Her voice firmed again.
The physician cleared his throat, Well, we have therapists available Carolyn - I strongly recommend you spend some time with one - even if you arent throwing things at your doctors, this sort of trauma isnt just physical - and youll need to treat that side of things every bit as much as the rest. But for now, you have a visitor, if youre feeling up to it. A visitor? Carolyn asked. Who? she asked. A Gary Chambers the doctor replied. Gary? Here? Id love to se talk to him. she finished, not quite as briskly as shed begun. Yes, very well, Ill see hes sent in. Dont stress yourself Dr. Carter, Ive done a good job here, and I dont want you messing things up - the paperwork would be hell was his quip as he exited the room.
Dr. Carter? Carolyn? My god are you the voice was shocked. Rather the worse for wear Im afraid, Gary, but still here. They claim theres a chair or two around here, pull up a seat. Its great to see you again, Carolyn. When we heard about the explosion well, we all thought that That Id be an ex-physicist? Gone pining for the fiords? That got a laugh. Well, I see the sense of humor hasnt changed, Doctor. They did their best Gary, but there are some things surgeons just cant fix. Rather a lot of things, in my case, it seems. You look Well, you look awful, to be honest. he said, quickly. She snorted. Im sure Ive looked better. But Im glad you came Gary. I need to know what happened - to the company, to my work, my house - the rest of my life. Whats happened over the last six months? Well he began
and that about covers it. Crey owns the company now - youre rich beyond the dreams of avarice, your cat misses you, your house is fine - we moved the stuff from your lab and office there before the board sold us, by the way - and Im now a junior employee of the RadionTech division of Crey Industries. Yay. She shook her head. The 5th Column? Those Nazi crazies on the street-corners? They claimed responsibility. The PPD investigated - and there were rumblings about heroes, and maybe the DoD looking further, but nothing - at least nothing public came of it. Technically, I think the case is still open. Carolyn shook her head. It just doesnt seem like something they would do. But Im going to find out for sure. Whoever did this - Im going to find out. Youre going to find out? How? Gary replied. I mean, forgive me Carolyn, but youre stuck in this bed - you cant walk, you cant even see. How are you going to She interrupted him. I dont know Gary, not right now. I have some ideas and you say Ive got a lot of money. Well, thats more than I had when I started then, all I had were the ideas.
She pondered for a moment. First, I have to get out of this hospital room. She thought again, So, you didnt sound altogether thrilled by your new position, Gary. Any chance youd be open to a career change? she asked. Me? A career change? What did you have in mind, Carolyn? he asked, doubt and interest competing in the tone of his voice.
Well, I may have ideas and money, Gary, but what I dont have is eyes, hands or legs. While I might eventually be able to address some of that list maybe even all of it, given some time I cant do it myself. Howd you like to be employee #1 of Carter Technologies, Ltd.? She smiled. Me? You want to hire me away from Crey? Carolyn nodded. Yep. Youre a talented engineer, Gary and Im going to need one - more than one, in fact. But beyond that, I trust you. And I think Im going to need that more than anything else. Somethings not right here and were going to find out what it is...
Six months later;
...Just one more connection... he said, absent-mindedly, and that should do it. Anything? He asked. Carolyn, sitting in her wheelchair, tried to open her eyes. It had been months since that effort had been anything other than futile, and there was an element of trepidation now. What if it didnt work? But no... There was something... Its not all dark, Gary, but Im not... and then, with a shimmer of video artifacts, the room swam into view. It wasnt perfect, but she was seeing. Seeing again for the first time since the explosion! I can... I can see, Gary. I can see! She saw the triumphant expression on his face all the more wonderful for the fact that she could see it, and not just rely on her hearing. Thats just he had to stop for a moment, thats just great, Carolyn.
He looked over at the displays monitoring the hardware behind the miracle. And the processors are keeping up just fine. I think once we move some of the software into FPFGAs, or get some custom silicon built, you may be right. We may be able to miniaturize this down to something that will fit in an eyeball, rather than a box under the wheelchair. He shook his head. You know, I built this thing, and I understand everything we did to make it but Id never have come up with it myself in a thousand years. He grinned. I guess thats why youre the billionaire genius, and Im just a glorified solder-jockey. Carolyn snorted. Solder-jockey. Spare me the false modesty, Gary your name is on several of the patents we have ready to file on this. And Ms. genius over here wouldnt have gotten the programming done in less than a year, even when she could see and type with both hands. So dont sell yourself short. She smiled, Besides, once this tech goes commercial, youre going to be independently wealthy yourself. Im not the only person on the planet thats going to owe her sight to your work, Gary. Im just the first. Thank you. Yes, um, well, youre welcome. He replied.
Paragon Times, March 5th, 2003:
Carter Technologies, Ltd. announces prosthetic breakthrough - Dr. Carolyn Carter was on hand today to announce the filing for FDA approval of the ChambersOptics line of prosthetic vision systems. These devices can literally give sight to the blind, stated Dr. Carter at the news conference. I am a living example of the benefits. After the explosion, I was unable to see - and now, with the aid of these artificial eyes, Ive got 20/20 vision again. While its a personal miracle for me, I feel most honored to announce today that the Mallory Foundation will be providing grants for those who cannot personally afford these devices, bringing the miracle of sight to many who would otherwise be unable to afford it. Carter Technologies is the second company founded by Dr. Carter. The first, Radion Technologies, Inc., was purchased by Crey Industries, and is now a leading defense subcontractor.
Later that evening;
So, the Mk. VII graviton phase field generators work in the simulators - the parts have been ordered. Theyll arrive in thirty days. The nano-fabricators are finishing up the up-rated and down-sized catalytic fusion cells; those should be ready to test this week. He looked up from the list. Im not sure why the mania for miniaturization, boss? Or what the heck all of this is for? The second generation spinal link hardware fits in the chair, why are we shrinking it still? Compact X-ray lasers whose exciters are triggered by short-range transmitted power? Pulsed radiation fields? Nanotechnology healing remotes? Advanced target-tracking and identification systems? Whats going on, boss? Youve been cagey about things ever since the last PI gave you his report. Which you never let me read, by the way. He sounded aggrieved.
Carolyn thought for a moment, and then came to a decision. Well, Gary, I was thinking that I might be able to keep you from being involved. She shook her head. But that wasnt fair of me. Its not my decision to make. You lost a lot in the explosion too and if you want to help me bring down those responsible, well, dangerous or not, that rightfully should be your decision. Gary looked shocked. You know something? Carolyn nodded. Cant prove it in a court of law, but yes, Gary. I know something. It wasnt the 5th Column that planted that bomb. It wasnt them at all... She paused Are you sure you want me to go on? Once you know, your life will be in danger. Mine is already, and I only hope that detective took my advice, and the rather large bonus, and disappeared. I can use your help, Gary, but if youd rather not know, nows the time to stop.
She gave him credit he actually thought about it. No, Dr. Carter. I didnt lose as much as you did that day, but I lost friends, and co-workers. If I can help bring those responsible to justice, then count me in. He leaned forward, Now, spill it, lady. Who are the bastards that did this?
It was well-hidden, but there was a trail - at the end of it? Well, at the end of the trail is Crey Industries, Gary. The bastards that did this to us are Crey. The usually light and pleasant voice had gone flat with menace. And Im going to make them sorry they ever even thought of doing this. With visible effort, she got under control. But we have to be careful, Gary. First, Crey is a mega-corp. It employs tens of thousands of people, most of whom cannot have any idea that their company does this sort of thing. Gary, whose expression was as grim as hers no doubt was, sounded skeptical, And second? He asked. Second, she replied, determination in her voice now Secondly, Gary, we cant let ourselves become like them. Were looking into an abyss here, and we cant let the abyss look too deeply into ourselves, or well be lost. She shook her head Before I let myself become like them, Ill go back to that hospital, blind and crippled, Gary. I swear.
She gestured at the lab around them. Theres the potential here to do a great deal of harm, Gary. If I wished, I could destroy... well, I could destroy this city, a wry grin no need to mention that to anyone, is there? Gary chuckled, my lips are sealed, boss. She laughed in return. Seriously, though. If I allow myself to wallow in unchecked vengeance, Im no better than those Arachnos scum on the news or any of the other villains that Paragon Citys heroes fight on a daily basis.
She wheeled over to her private terminal. And, since youre willing to help, and since were on the subject of heroes... she tapped one-handed at the keyboard. You can help me with this. The main holo-projector in the room powered up with a low hum, and laser beams flickered into existence, piece-by-piece rendering an armored figure a figure that would come to be a familiar sight in the skies above Paragon City, the green and white armor of You can help me bring the Synchrotron armored battle suit to reality, Gary. You can help me become a hero.
Synchrotron, level 50 Radiation/Radiation Defender
Fighting crime on Champion since 2004