concept that would increase that multiple dramatically. A lot of this research

was done by DoD starting in the 1960s, but the science and materials weren’t

there yet. The exoskeleton suits back then reacted unpredictably. I heard some

people were even hurt.” “Is that right?” said Puller. “And the liquid armor?”

“Armor that’s flexible until the impact of a bullet triggers it to instantly

harden into a shield as impenetrable as steel. Then it repairs itself after

being damaged by enemy fire.” “Sounds like a Marvel movie.” “Only our version

isn’t special effects. It actually works.” “So you’re basically building the

super soldier?” “Yes.” “And you’re funded by DARPA, right?” “Yes, although I

think our direct link is DSO, the Defense Sciences Office. But they report

directly to DARPA’s director. Before I came to Atalanta, I worked at another

contractor on TMS projects.”

 

“TMS?”

 

“Transcranial magnetic stimulation. There’s also its counterpart, transcranial

direct current stimulation. The differences are pretty much outlined in their

names. One uses magnetic fields, the other electrical currents.” “And the goal?”

“In the military, to increase alertness and make the soldier in the field think

better and faster in adverse conditions. It’s well past the concept stage. It

may be near deployment.” “I was in combat. I could have used that.” “Well, it’s

coming.” Puller considered all of this. “I’m going to need your help, Ms.

 

Shepard.” “What can I do?” “You can be my eyes and ears on the inside. We’ll

exchange contact information and you can report to me at regular intervals.” She