Chapter 16 - The Real Purpose
Leonard’s research files revealed a hidden military contract.
SN-14 had not originally been designed as an allergy drug.
It was intended to suppress immune responses after exposure to experimental biological agents.
Sherman Biotech publicly described it as emergency medicine.
Privately, Leonard tested whether it could temporarily weaken the body enough for another compound to take effect.
Toby’s poisoning may have involved two substances.
Naomi ordered a deeper toxicology analysis.
The second compound appeared in trace amounts.
It was designed to alter blood markers.
Leonard wanted Toby’s medical data to show a rare inherited disorder.
Once diagnosed, the child could be enrolled in a private research program controlled by Leonard.
He was not planning one dramatic hospital rescue.
He was planning years of access to Toby.
Elijah read the report.
“He wanted to turn him into a permanent subject.”
Naomi nodded.
Cassandra had not known the full plan.
She believed the incident would end after the rescue dose.
Her ignorance reduced nothing.
But it explained why she panicked when Toby deteriorated.
Federal investigators expanded the case.
The military contractor denied approving human testing.
Sherman Biotech’s board claimed ignorance.
Elijah knew at least one board member was lying.
His uncle, Robert Sherman, managed classified partnerships.
Robert had defended Leonard after Trial 6.
He also pressured Elijah to keep SN-14 alive.
Naomi asked where Robert was.
Elijah checked his phone.
His uncle had sent a message one hour earlier.
Do not speak to federal agents until we control the story.
May you like
Elijah handed the phone to Detective Price.
For the first time, he did not protect the Sherman name.
