“Nearly complete damage between the second and third thoracic vertebrae. Layman’s terms, son, you’re looking at paraplegia for life.”

“Shouldn’t the doctor be telling me this?” said Arch.

“Oh, he’ll be in soon enough with the proper diagnosis,” the suit said. “I’ve arranged to have a few minutes with you before that.”

“To gloat?”

The suit laughed an insincere laugh. “Of course not. So cynical! I’m here to offer you participation in a clinical trial. You’re familiar with lanxisol?”

“A little,” Arch said. He’d seen alarmist media reports, but hadn’t put much stock in them.

“Well, there’s a newer derivative we’re developing–lanxisol centlin. It promises far more potent benefits with fewer side effects. We’ve got the chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus breathing down our neck to get it approved so his little brother can walk again. That’s where you come in.”