act25side

Control. Kristen Wright...

As an ordinary researcher, she never had too much contact with Kristen. Perhaps, at most, a glimpse or two of the Rhine Lab Control during wrap-up conferences at the end of the year.

She still remembers the look in Kristen's eyes.

In her eyes, there was only one thing.

Scientists must think about one thing, and one thing only... 'And that is how to accomplish it.'

A scientist's sole responsibility is to push science to progress. 'That alone is more than enough to exhaust us.'

...And where is it that progress lies?

Whenever Columbia's wastes see rain, the vegetation quickly turns to overgrowth. When people hand down decisions from high perches, dictating what plants are of use and what should be disparaged as weeds, it never sits well with me.

We need to admit, no matter what, that that should not be described as 'progress.'

Kristen, and those like her, and those who wear the same guise as her...

They all lay claim to their vision, their direction, as the way that science's progress should orient.

She wouldn't dare say she understands the secretive, elusive Control, but she understands the rest of them, and the respective... costs of their journeys forward.

Who will define progress? Who will watch over it... Hasn't it seen too many sacrifices beneath its heels?

Science must progress, of course.

I am a researcher myself. I sympathize as such.

But we must be aware—of the nature of the costs therein.

We must be aware—

—that science does not solely serve personal ideals nor obsessions.

Is that a drone?

Researcher. What are you doing?

I don't want trouble with you, and the guys in charge don't need your help anymore, so you ought to—

Hey! We're talking to you!

The hell is she up to?

The key! Your car key!

She stole one of our cars? Is she insane?

Shit, we need to—

Silence! Silence!

Where'd the girl come from? This is a military exclusion zone!

The hell are you doing?!

Move it!

Ugh!

Gimme your car key too!

Uh, do—do you know how to drive, young lady?

Maybe you need me to—

Shut up! I've got this under control!

...Uh, but just to confirm, left one is the brake, right?