Chapter 51: Human Experiments

Adam’s favorite people were those immersed in technology and academia. Regardless of where they came from, most intellectuals were inherently naïve in his eyes, and Dr. Connors was no exception. With just a few well-placed words, Adam had managed to convince him to leave Osborn Industries and join Wayne Enterprises.

Connors, ever efficient, didn’t waste time. Norman Osborn, always calculating, had long ceased to fund Connors’ research, finding it of little benefit to him. Though Osborn had maintained the facade of support, he had made no real effort to retain Connors, effectively pushing him into Adam’s hands.

Two days later, Connors had wrapped up his personal matters and arrived in Gotham. Adam warmly welcomed him and immediately took him to see the laboratory he had arranged.

“Dr. Connors, this is your new laboratory,” Adam said, gesturing toward an entire building.

Connors blinked in confusion. “Mr. Wayne, which floor will I be working on?”

Adam chuckled, amused by the question. “There’s no single floor. The entire building is yours.”

Connors froze in shock. “The entire building?”

“Yes. It’s a state-of-the-art biological laboratory, and you’re now its supervisor,” Adam replied, smiling as he patted Connors on the shoulder.

The words hit Connors like a dream. Back at Osborn Industries, his lab had been modest at best, and he had always been made to feel secondary. Now, an entire building was being handed to him—a level of trust and respect he had never experienced before.

“Mr. Wayne, I don’t know what to say…” Connors stammered, his voice thick with emotion.

“There’s no need to say anything. Let’s head inside and take a look,” Adam said, leading the way.

The building was a marvel of modern science, spanning eight floors and classified as a Level 4 biosafety facility—the highest level in the world. Laboratories of this caliber were rare, designed to handle the most dangerous pathogens and viruses.

As they toured the facility, Connors’ awe grew with every step. The advanced equipment, the expertly trained staff, and the meticulous safety protocols far exceeded his expectations.

Finally, Adam turned to him, a knowing smile on his face. “Dr. Connors, now that you’ve seen the lab, it’s time to show you what you’ve been most curious about.”

Connors blushed slightly, realizing Adam had noticed his lingering interest in the Extremis experimental sites during their tour. No longer trying to hide it, he asked directly, “Mr. Wayne, has Wayne Enterprises already begun human trials for Extremis?”

“Yes, the trials are well underway,” Adam confirmed with a nod.

Hearing this, Connors’ eyes lit up with excitement. For a medical breakthrough like Extremis to have reached human trials meant the research was practically a success. His own work on limb regeneration had never made it past the theoretical stage, so he was eager to learn more.

“Mr. Wayne, would it be possible for me to participate in the human trials?” Connors asked hesitantly.

Adam wasn’t surprised by the request. He sighed inwardly, understanding the daily struggles of someone like Connors.

“Dr. Connors, can’t you wait a little longer?” Adam asked gently.

Connors shook his head. “You don’t understand, Mr. Wayne. My current life is unbearable. Conducting experiments is a struggle, and I’m constantly underestimated because of my disability. I want to change that.”

Seeing Connors’ sincerity, Adam agreed. “Alright, Dr. Connors, you can participate in the trials. However, you must report any issues immediately. Your safety is my priority.”

Connors’ gratitude was palpable. “Thank you, Mr. Wayne. I promise this won’t interfere with my work. I’ll continue to research diligently.”

Adam smiled, though he felt no need to press further. If Connors was eager enough to work on his own initiative, it was all the better for Wayne Enterprises.

“Dr. Connors, there’s no rush. Focus on recovering fully first,” Adam said with a reassuring tone, though he inwardly hoped Connors would dive into the research immediately.

After receiving another wave of thanks from Connors, Adam took him to the experimental team and granted him full access to the lab’s resources. He ensured Connors’ participation in the human trials was approved, setting everything in motion.

Once everything was in place, Adam left the building, satisfied that his newest recruit was now firmly under his wing.