After several hours with no sign of change, Harold and Dr. Stein had to admit the project was a failure. Even with all their modifications, it was still impossible to create a Chimera of any kind.
"Thank you for your help, dear," said Kirana as she handed the girl her things and led her out of the lab.
"Will I still get paid?" asked the girl as they rounded the corner.
Although Harold and Dr. Stein looked disappointed, Jeremy had to admit he was relieved.
"It's just as well. If it had been a success, there would have been all kinds of trouble. Animalia would have been flooded with mythical monsters that would have ruined the place. Can you imagine it? Everyone would have been clamoring to be dragons or some other destructive creatures. Maybe even a giant Cthulu or something," said Jeremy.
"Nonsense, " scoffed Dr. Stein. "It has taken us almost a year to complete the process for just two animal species. It would have taken even longer to analyze the genome of another set of animals and find the proper combination of genes to silence and activate. Not to mention we are still limited by the laws of physics, physiology and reality. It would be impossible to create some combinations, like a horse that could really fly, because it would be impossible for its wings to support its weight. And giant creatures like dragons would perish on their own, unable to sustain adequate blood flow through their massive bodies. And, of course, we planned to vaccinate the girl immediately. No one else could have been converted without the help and approval of Horizon Labs."
"Well, it doesn't matter. It was a failure. Project Chimera is a failure. Best to shut it down for good and never attempt it again. In fact, we should never mention it again. We should just pretend it never existed and go on about our mundane lives," said Harold. "Kirana and I are returning to the Atoll to live a quiet, non-threatening existence."
"Yes, better to keep the status quo. It may be dull, but it helps maintain our perfect idyllic society," said Dr. Stein.
The group of scientists quietly dispersed and returned to their labs, continuing their own stories.