The Antidote

“I know the antidote is not quite ready, but you have to hurry.”

“I’m well aware of what’s at stake.” Doctor Koch looked at Stan with his glasses hung off his nose.

“I’ve almost got it. You should get into the cell just in case.”

“But you said this time you were sure you found the cure.”

“Nothing is certain.”

“Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Just get in the cell. Honestly, Stan. It’s a precaution.” The doctor mixed together the last two compounds and held them over an open flame. The liquid turned a blood red and began bubbling. Stan just stared at it.

“That’s the antidote?”

“Yes.”

“It looks like blood. I’m not drinking that.”

“You have to. It’s the only way. Besides, part of it is made up of blood. You do know how you got this way don’t you?”

“Well, yeah. My grandfather always said it was hereditary. I guess the antidote having blood in it does make sense.”

A cool breeze played with the light curtains, as the sun hovered just above the horizon. The soft chirp of a few crickets started their melancholy song. The smell of putrid burning sulfur cut through the lab.

“Ugh. That stuff smells horrible too.”

“I’ll cool it down. We only have a few minutes. Please, get in the cell.”

They both watched as the doctor applied water, then some ice to the now thickened liquid.

“Drink this.”

Stan hesitated. He chugged the vial down, and gagged several times. They waited.

“How do you feel?”

“My stomach is upset.” Hair began sprouting on Stan’s face and arms. ““It’s happening again, isn’t it?”

“I knew you should have gotten in the cell.”

“You better run, Doc.” Stan’s voice changing to a more sinister growl. “I’m feeling very hungry.”


300 Words
Flash Story Must contain the line: "It’s happening again, isn’t it?"