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Post by mawa on Nov 10, 2004 7:00:37 GMT -5
I present you my very first EQ fan fiction - "The Files of Martin Stein". The story will be coming in chapters, so stay tuned for the updates. Before I start - here's my Thanksgiving list for those who had the influence on the shape of the story and who helped me.
So - big Thank You:
- Libby - for througoutly beta-reading my work, for valuable comments and for her fan-fictions "Dizzying Hights, Abysmal Lows" and "Of Night and Light" - whithout them the story would have been entirely different ( if there would be any ).
- ClericAldarendil - for the initial correction and valuable comments.
- JudasFm - for the initial encouragement when I was in doubt, whether to continue writing this story and publish it. That gave me a kick!
- ClericWolf - for his comment about the speechmarks and for his fan fiction "House of Cards" ( which also had a significant influence on the shape of my story ).
- lostchild - for the review.
So, here it goes: Chapter I The sound of a working computer was the only one that could be heard in Crow’s office. The last investigation he conducted, coded case 254/58 finally found its end and James Crow was about to finish his report. Based on the gathered evidence, it is clear that the recent network crash was caused by Frank Revan, the computer technician in I Department. He hacked into the network and accessed the computer database. He also attempted an unauthorized access to Class A documents, but failed due to detection.
Suggestions: 1) Complete the introduction of A, B and C level computer access cards as soon as possible. Current security measures are insufficient. 2) Reinstall and upgrade the system!
James Crow, Tetragrammaton - II DepartmentThere was also one more thing that crossed Crow’s mind. The blood test which had been run on Revan showed that the Prozium concentration in the suspect's blood was within norms. So he wasn’t a sense offender. But it was he who hacked the system. “There’s something missing.” Crow thought. But for the superiors the mere fact of the hack was sufficient to send Revan for combustion. They’ll say he was a sense offender, because only they are capable of treason. “That would be too simple.” Suddenly, the telephone rang. “James Crow, you are to proceed to the Vice-Council immediately.” “Understood.” The investigator left his office, heading to see the Vice-Council DuPont. After a thorough search, James Crow stepped in to the office of the Vice-Council, who began to speak even before the doors closed. “The case I have for you is of a very sensitive nature. I asked your superiors in the II Department to single out the most capable investigator they have. They chose you. And your records seem to confirm their choice.” “Thank you, sir.” “Now let's get down to business. Martin Stein, a leading V Department scientist, has disappeared.” “What do you mean... dissapeared, Vice-Council?” “He didn’t come to work. He also wasn’t in his unit, neither did he leave a message indicating his whereabouts” “My task is to find him then?” “Yes” DuPont nodded, “There is one thing you need to know. Stein is leading the research, which is absolutely vital and cannot be continued without him. Find him, dead or alive. I will not accept failure. Am I clear?” “Yes sir.” “Good. I authorize you to question everyone in the Tetragrammaton and Stein’s family. I’ll also send orders to all departments to give you all possible assistance. Find him. I give you ten days.” As DuPont said it, his secretary started to type the authorization message. “Understood.” “Dismissed.” Crow nodded, turned on his heel and left the Vice-Council’s office. Back in his office Crow accessed the Tetragrammaton Database. Father hadn't given him much time, he knew it. He typed “Stein, Martin” into the database search engine and waited for the results. After a while it came up with the following: Name: Stein, Martin Age: 60 Date of birth: 03.III.1980 Marital status: married Children: 2 Private address: Sector 10, 1st Street 12/4 Occupation: Department V - R&D, scientist ( First Class )
1998-2002 – studies chemistry, studies interrupted by the outbreak of III WW 2012: Starts working for the Tetragrammaton, under the I Councillary, in the V Department 2012-2013 – a lab assistant 2014-2024 – a Second Class scientist 2014-2015 – took part in researching Prozium I 2016-2018 – took part in researching Prozium II 2019-2022 – research on new weaponry 2023-2024 - research on emotion detector PROJECT SUSPENDED
2025 – a First Class scientist
ALL DATA CLASSIFIED
Opinion ( 1.VII 2019 ): A brilliant mind, hard-working. Specialized in chemistry, does his job very well. Tasks completed on time. Further prospects: AThere was also Stein’s photo, which Crow examined carefully. He saw a bald, round faced man wearing glasses. His look was sharp and scrutinizing. “So, what do we have there?” Crow thought, while processing the information. “A promising chemist, now First Class scientist, working on both Prozium generations. Fifteen years of his career are classified, so some major researches are going on.” “People do not disappear.” The investigator said aloud. “Coffee also doesn’t make itself. Which reminds me...” James Crow poured big amount of coffee in his espresso machine and turned it on. Coffee was the liquid which, besides Prozium, kept him alive. The telephone rang again. “Crow, do you have the report on case 254/58?” It was John Miller, Crow’s direct superior. “Yes, I’ve finished it.” “So bring me the report immediately. This case has already been dragging on way too long.” “It’s closed. Definitely.” Crow stressed the last word. “Good. Now bring me the report.” After these words Miller hung up. Investigator Crow printed his report and took it, along with complete documentation. He went then to Miller’s office. John Miller, a blond in his mid forties looked at his subordinate as he laid the report on desk. “I’ve already been informed by the Vice-Council about your new task” The superior started, “Therefore I’ll give the case I planned for you to Watts.” Crow nodded. “As for your report,” Miller continued, browsing it. “It’s interesting. Frank Revan – who would suspect? But what took you so long?” “Ask the system administrator,” Crow replied, “The system is so unstable that it could be as well a random malfunction. Revan simply took an advantage of this – and he would have got away with it, if he succeeded. So it is luck and Revan’s insufficient skills that made this case possible to close.” “You’ll need this luck now. I appreciate your skills and I can wait bit longer, because I know you don’t miss anything. But the Vice-Council won’t wait. Got it?” Miller spoke slowly, stressing each word. “Yes.” “Good. Find Stein. We can’t miss anything. We can’t let him get into Resistance hands. Preston’s rebellion almost succeeded because we allowed him too much. It is Vice-Council DuPont’s bullet that stopped the threat. Remember: if Clerics are the hand of justice, we are its brain.” “I’ll bear this in mind.” Crow answered. “Good. You may leave.” Miller said. James Crow left his superior's office and started to make a detailed plan of his investigation. Already in his office, Crow stared at the computer screen. The best thing he could do, he thought, was to question Stein's family and search his flat for further clues. The investigator picked up the phone and dialed the Police Forces extension. “Yes? Who is there?” The voice asked. “James Crow here. I need two of your men right now.” Crow said. “I don’t have two men. All are already assigned. Some are patrolling the city, others are patrolling the Nethers. Four of them went on house searching.” answered the voice. “It’s Stein’s case, Paul, you should receive message from the Vice-Council. I need those men!” Crow’s voice was getting tired. “Hold on for a moment.” After a while the man called Paul said: “Yes, I’ve got the orders. But the only thing I can do for you is to contact the searching teams and ask them, when they will come back. I’ll do this and call you back as soon as someone will become available.” “All right. I’m waiting.” Crow answered and hung up. “Will this ever come to an end?” the investigator asked himself, “The police are patrolling the cities, doing random blood tests. Each member of the Tetragrammaton and other institutions has to take an obligatory blood test as well. The Monitoring Centre soon will be fully operational. And yet there are people who still resist. How long will it last?” Unable to find the answer to these questions, Crow picked up the cup of already cold coffee and drank it. He knew he will need a lot of this awfully tasting Librian coffee to function for the next ten days. The telephone rang after half an hour. It was Paul. “James, consider yourself lucky,” he said, “Sweepers Harris and Reynolds have just returned from the house searching and are to your disposal.” “Good.” “To be honest, I’m suprised that I’ve found someone at all. A lot of my people are being regularly deployed to the Nethers, capturing Sense Offenders.” “Capturing?” Crow asked, “Aren’t they supposed to be shot on sight?” “I also don’t understand it. I’m just fulfilling my orders.” Paul answered „ James, I need more men.” he added. “We all do.” “Harris and Reynolds will be waiting for you outside. Try to be short.” “I’ll do what I can.” Paul hung up. James sighed. House searching just can’t be short. At least not in this case, where each slightest clue would be priceless. He thought he should someday explain some things regarding his job to Paul, but it would be probably futile. The high-pitched tone of James’ watch reminded him of taking a next dose of Prozium. He placed his dose in the PIU, injected it, waited few seconds and headed outside.
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Post by JenGe on Nov 12, 2004 0:55:11 GMT -5
Hey, Mawa...very nice. You've been hiding some talent there.
Looking forward to the next chapter. For the time being since you're posting it here on the boards I'll just mention it on the front page with a link to this thread (unless you want me to do something differently.)
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Post by Witcher Wolf on Nov 12, 2004 6:46:24 GMT -5
Nifty MaWa It's coming along nicely, and just like Jen I am looking forwards to seeing more
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Post by Xenia Onatopp- Bale on Nov 12, 2004 7:24:15 GMT -5
Hey, MaWa, you're a great writer. Can't wait to read your next chapter.
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Post by Libby on Nov 13, 2004 8:42:09 GMT -5
Cheers, MaWa... ;D
I think the story has a good, edgy feel to it. I already have a mental image of James Crow. There's a kind of minimalist, 'story noir' atmosphere about it, too. It gives an insight into the deeper levels of ther TG, showing that there's more to it than just the Cleric.
Oh,yes...and I really like the title!
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Post by Sontin-JudasFm on Nov 17, 2004 9:06:20 GMT -5
Yay, you published it! ;D;D;D Great work...can't wait for more!
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Post by TheMacroprosopus on Nov 17, 2004 12:02:00 GMT -5
I enjoy my confusion about "Preston's rebellion almost succeeded", and "It is Vice-Council DuPont’s bullet that stopped the threat. " I hope those are covered later.
Excellent so far! Can't wait!
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Post by mawa on Nov 18, 2004 15:02:36 GMT -5
Thanks guys for your comments! I really appreciate them! I'll paste the next chapter as soon as I get it beta-read. Don't worry - I won't be an asshole and I won't leave the story unfinished.
Thanks again! I'll try to give you the best story I can!
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Post by Beefie on Dec 17, 2004 17:06:56 GMT -5
Hi MaWa Just an enquiry really... How is the next installment coming on. Waiting patiently for it, well trying to...
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Post by mawa on Dec 21, 2004 12:12:23 GMT -5
Finally I got the next chapter done ( Libby, thanks a lot! ) Enjoy!Chapter II On his way to Sector 10, one of the newest sectors in Libria, James was thinking about questions he should ask to gather the largest amount of information as possible. As for searching – James was aware that all flats in this sector were identical. After all he lived there, in one of those grey, massive blocks. After doing his job in Stein’s flat, he planned to go back home and analyze obtained pieces of information there. It would take him ten minutes by foot. The only thing he had to do was to inform Miller. “Sir, we’re there," Harris, who drove the car, announced. “Good. We may proceed.” – replied the investigator. The search team parked and headed towards Stein’s flat. After a moment they knocked at the door. A thin, middle-aged and dark-haired woman opened the door and seeing Crow’s uniform, stepped back. “James Crow, Tetragrammaton. I need to ask a few question regarding your husband’s disappearance. In the meantime you’ll be blood-tested.” – said Crow crisply. Reynolds took out his Electronic Portable Prozium Tester (EPPT) – a small device used to detect presence of Prozium in blood of the examined person and performed a quick test. “It’s positive,” he announced. “Thank you, Reynolds,” said the investigator, “Now, let’s get down to the questions, shall we?” “I’ll tell you what I know, Mr Crow.” said Stein’s wife. James nodded, took out his notebook and asked: “What’s your name?” “Elena Stein.” James noted the name and asked: “Your husband didn’t appear at work today. We haven’t received any message from him regarding his absence. Perhaps you know something about his disappearance?” “No,” said Elena looking at the young, red-haired man who was questioning her, “He left this morning as usual.” “So he didn’t give you any clue?” “No. He said that he’s going to work and will stay until late.” “Have you noticed anything unusual?” “Hm. Let me think.” After a moment the woman, suddenly recalling something, said, “Yes.” James had his pencil and notebook at the ready. “What was it?” "Recently, he had taken to going down to our basement storage area and staying there until late.” “What is in the storage area?” Another question was asked. “His private lab.” “Show it to us.” Elena nodded. “Follow me,” she said. The investigator and the searching team followed Stein’s wife as she led them to the basement. As the search team reached Stein’s storage area they saw an unusually well-equipped lab. Various test tubes, flasks, chemical agents, a couple of burners,a fridge and other items were evident. “Harris, Reynolds,” James instructed the sweepers, “Search for all documents and any other data you can find.” “Yes, sir.” The team started the search. Scouring the cabinets and wall cupboards for any available clue they came up mainly with chemical formulas, scientific books and chemical agents. Mainly... “Sir!” Reynolds’ voice was heard, “I found something!” “Give it to me.” Crow ordered. Reynolds passed Crow a folder and a CD. It was the hand-written inscription on the folder that attracted sweeper’s attention. It read: “The ultimate solution”. The investigator opened the folder and saw couple of chemical reactions with descriptions and a couple of long passages, without any related formulas. There was one problem though - the descriptions weren’t written in English. “This must be one of those numerous pre-war languages,” “which are said to be extinct.” thought James The paper wasn’t yellowed, so it seemed that the notes were quite recent. They looked like a report from some kind of research. But not a single word was even remotely known to the investigator. “If this was a standard report, why someone would want to code it?” This question struck James like a hammer. “When someone wants to hide something.” The answer came instantly. But then another question came. James took a look at the CD cover and saw another incomprehensible description. He didn’t see any computer though. Elena Stein observed the searching team, especially the red-haired man in the Cleric-like grey uniform who was reading some documents – or at least tried to work out their meaning. “Mrs. Stein," the man raised his head and looked at the woman standing by the door, "Could you tell me what language is this?” Elena approached the man and took a look at the notes, which were in the folder. After a while she said: “It’s German.” “Can you speak this language?" “No,” the woman answered “Then we’ll have to find someone who speaks it,” said Crow, “But before we leave, we’ll also search your husband’s room.” Elena nodded and the four headed back upstairs towards the scientist’s room. Stein’s room didn’t differ from the Librian standard. A bed, a wardrobe, small desk, a chair and a single bookshelf – these were the entire furnishings. Martin’s desk was the first place Crow started his search. Looking into every drawer he browsed Stein’s notes. The majority of them concerned some of his former research. Crow took those, which referred to Prozium. As James finished searching Stein’s desk, his eyes wandered towards the bookshelf. Among numerous scientific books and articles there was one book, which every Librian had in his possession: “Father’s Word”. Crow wondered whether Stein’s scrutinizing approach applied to Father’s teaching as well. In order to find the answer he reached out for the book, took it and started browsing through it. He found what he was instinctively looking for: notes. In fact those notes were also written in this strange, incomprehensible language, which was called German. “I think we’ve found everything we wanted. Thank you for your help. Should the need arise, we will call you.” “I’ll be to your disposal,” answered Stein’s wife. The search team left the building and Crow started to consider his next step. He had a CD, bunch of notes and “Father’s Word”. He was sure about one thing: somehow he had to get these notes translated. He also planned to review the CD at home, on his private laptop and read the Prozium research notes. A grain of suspicion was sown he seemed to have more questions than answers: if Stein headed for work as usual and never reached it – then where is his car? “We’re done for now. You can drive back to the headquarters while I’ll analyze the data at home. It’s not far, I can go by foot.” said Crow. “Yes sir!” the sweepers answered. As Harris and Reynolds drove away, James headed towards his unit, which was located two blocks from Stein’s flat. Crow’s flat wasn’t big. One room, kitchen and a bathroom provided enough room for him. As a man without family he didn’t need anything more. The decor met the ascetic Librian standards. Bed, desk, a cabinet and a wardrobe. The only unusual thing was Crow’s private laptop, which was standing on the desk, right by the telephone. James put his findings aside on the desk, picked up the phone, dialed the II Department’s number and Miller’s extension. “John Miller, II Department. Who is calling?” “James Crow. I found some data which I’d like to analyze at home so I won’t come back to work until tomorrow.” “Good,” John answered, “In fact, you’ve made a wise choice.” “What do you mean?” James asked “The Central Database is down.” Despite the Prozium in his system, James experienced mild irritation. Now he was cut off from the data, which might be vital for his investigation. “What did exactly happen and when?” “Two hours ago.” answered Miller. “Right after my departure.” thought James. “According to the technicians,” Miller continued, “A virus was planted into the system. It corrupted the system files, great majority of Class C and some of the Class B data. The system has been scanned, but the virus couldn’t be removed. They decided to format.” “And restore the database from backups?” “Yes.” “It’ll take two days at least.” said James and suddenly something struck him, “Is Revan still at large? If he’s arrested I must question him.” “I’m afraid it’s not possible,” Crow’s superior answered “Security came for him shortly after the crash. They found him dead.” “Suicide?” asked Crow “Possibly. The Medical Section is performing the post-mortem examinations. The result should be known in two or three hours.” “Right. Keep me informed,” said the investigator. “Will do,” Miller answered and hung up.
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Post by mawa on Dec 21, 2004 12:13:07 GMT -5
Sabotage – that was James’ first thought. He wondered whether it was a blind attack or was it somehow connected with his investigation. He didn’t know and he badly needed as much evidence in Stein’s case as possible.
He glanced at the stuff from Stein’s flat and decided that he should browse the CD first. He turned on the laptop and inserted the CD into CD-ROM.
As it turned out, the CD contained a single document, merely one page long. It was also written entirely in German. But as Crow observed, the document didn’t contain a single chemical formula. In fact, it didn’t look like a research report. It didn’t look like a note at all.
“Why someone would use a CD-ROM for one single document? What’s in it? And why it is written in that language?” Questions were surfacing one after another.
Without any clue what to do next, the young investigator opened Stein’s copy of “Father’s Word”, searching for notes. Soon he found a passage, where the greatest volume of German notes could be found:
“The source of our power lies in logic. We had chosen not to rely on the Irrational, which almost lead to our end – but to embrace logic, which will tell us how to live. We won’t have to be afraid of ourselves anymore. The harmony, which we now experience, shall not be gone. Sooner or later no-one will be willing to reject what our great society has achieved.”
James stopped for a moment, for some aspect of Stein’s life made him think. This scientist belonged to those Librians who remembered the pre-war era. Crow realized that he was investigating a case of a man who had gone through more things then he, who had never experienced life without Prozium. The man who had great influence shaping Libria – almost as great as Father, was now gone. And all what Crow had were the notes written in German, probably Stein’s native language.
James continued browsing the book, paying great attention to the concentration of notes. He could at least figure out, which fragments of the book attracted Stein’s attention especially strongly.
Still browsing the pages, he eventually came to an end, where Stein has written only one sentence, which apparently served as a summary: Gibt es Vorzüglichkeit - dann gibt es keinen Menschen.
James knew what to do. He had to find an translator. He had to find a key to Stein’s mind. But at this very moment he felt overwhelming exhaustion and headache. Putting away his personal gun, which he always carried with him in case of self-defense and deciding to find an translator tomorrow, he fell on his bed.
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Post by Sontin-JudasFm on Dec 21, 2004 12:39:36 GMT -5
Wow, two parts for the price of...erm...well, none really, but you get the idea ;D (okay, I confess; I'm in a loopy mood Anyhoo...) Another fantastic installment! Eagerly looking forward to the next part (and right now, wishing I spoke German...wonder if WorldLingo can help translate )
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Post by Witcher Wolf on Dec 22, 2004 7:00:54 GMT -5
Great work MaWa. Your style is really starting to evolve now, this keeps on getting better. Keep up the good work and can't wait to find out how this particular story evolves.
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Post by mawa on Dec 29, 2004 18:07:35 GMT -5
A very belated Thank Yous to both JudasFM and ClericWolf. There is still more to come, but I can't promise it'll come soon. I estimate that the story will have about 15 chapters. It can be few more as well. PS. Cool sig, Wolf
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Post by Witcher Wolf on Dec 30, 2004 5:49:52 GMT -5
Heh Heh Heh re: Siggy.
I thought it was time for a change again and I had to make those eyes into a sig, they're haunting.
Re: Files - well...write until you conclude the story, don't stretch it too far - as long as you're comfortable with the ending that's all that really matters.
Have fun getting to there and then think...
'What now?'
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Post by Beefie on Jan 2, 2005 8:02:03 GMT -5
Hey MaWa, great stuff!!! I must say, really enjoyed that although just starting to get comfortable and really into it and.....no more!! (Oh no!! hanging on the edge of my seat wanting more) Can't wait for the next installment. Keep up the good work. (Will have to learn German in the mean time ) ;D ;D
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Post by ClericAldarendil on Feb 5, 2005 8:56:36 GMT -5
more ! .... more ! .... more ! .... more ! .... more ! .... more ! .... more ! .... please ?
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Post by mawa on Apr 3, 2005 11:23:17 GMT -5
Finally, I bring you my next chapter. I apologize for the shamelessly long time of not updating. Next updates will be much more frequent. Author's note: Hunt character mentioned in the note was taken from Cleric Wolf's fan-fiction "House of Cards. Thanks, Wolf!Chapter III Next morning, back in the office, James continued analyzing his findings. This time he decided to take a closer look at Martin’s research notes, which fortunately had been written in English, in a concise style. James started to work on one of the older notes, which read: Project name: Prozium I
Evaluation: Extremely dangerous, aborting the experiments as soon as possible is required.
Experiment subject: J. Hunt
Observed effects: aggressive behavior, psychosis. Subject poses great danger.Below were other notes, written so hastily that Crow had trouble reading them. However, he succeeded after few attempts and could read the following: There must be a way... Maybe they’ll finally listen to my suggestions and will stop aiming at destroying emotions entirely. Prozium I was way too strong, therefore caused brain damage. Hunt was doomed.Crow read this note several times, understanding now why Vice-Council wanted to find Stein so badly. The investigator read carefully the other notes, looking for further clues, hidden between chemical formulas and scientific terms. Finally he found another note: Project name: Prozium II
Evaluation: Success. Can be implemented for common use. Note: the doses have to be adjusted individually.
Number of subjects: 1000
Observed effects: suppressing emotions to acceptable level. Note – five subjects, after ceasing their dose suffered from following symptoms: nausea, hallucinations, dizziness. Two cases of fever noted. All subjects recovered after few days. At the bottom of the page there was only one sentence written, which read: This might be the remedy....“Research, which is absolutely vital.” murmured James, while staring at the notes. Just after a moment, the telephone rang. “James Crow, II Department.” “Crow, I’ve got some news for you.” It was Miller “What news?” The young investigator starved for every bit of information. “I’ve got the result of post-mortem examinations of Revan. Guess what they found out.” “Poison.” James voiced his suspicion. “Exactly! It was cyanide, which Revan managed to take before the security got him.” “So this trace seems to be a dead end for now,” Crow concluded. “But I’ll have to take another one. I need some help here.” “Yes” Miller listened. “Do you know someone who speaks German?” James asked. “German? Oh dear, the language is extinct – as the thousands of other languages. Ninety percent of mankind was wiped out in the World War III – and the languages they had spoken were wiped out with them.” “Well, not quite.” James disagreed. “I’ve found in Stein’s flat numerous notes belonging to him, written in this language. I think Stein wants to conceal something and for this purpose he uses a language, which only he can understand. After all, in contrast to us, he remembers the pre-war times." “So, you’re looking for someone of German origin, who is old enough to remember the times before World War III." Miller said. "Well, I don’t know such a person. At least not in my Department." “All right, I’ll continue my search then.” Crow answered. “Don’t lose the track, Crow. You know your main task.” Miller answered and hung up. “Yes, I do.” James muttered, “I do.” Wondering, where he might start his search, the investigator checked the database access, just for sure. As a result he saw only a blue screen, reading: DATABASE MALFUNCTION. ACCESS NOT AVAILABLE. Crow stared at the screen and sighed, excluding at the same time next Tetragrammaton branches from his field of interest. As he concluded, he could forget about the Clerics, The Police Force, The Security and his own department - The Investigations. Finally, there remained two: The Medical Section and R&D. Hesitating for a moment, Crow decided eventually to dial R&D’s extension, concluding that it would be more sensible to start his search from Stein’s department. “Eric Simpson, V Department”. A calm voice was heard. “James Crow speaking, from the II Department.” James answered. “I’m investigating the disappearance of Martin Stein and want to talk to as many staff members as possible.” “James Crow,” the other man was thinking. “Yes, I remember. We received Vice-Council’s orders and authorization message yesterday. We’ll do our best to help you.” “Good. I’ll come to talk to you in ten minutes.” James hung up. The investigator was about to leave, when he suddenly realized, that he almost forgot to print that German document, stored on Martin’s CD. He quickly printed it, grabbed, enclosed it to the rest of the notes, took the folder as well and left his office. James went along the wide, but gray and unfriendly corridors of his department, passing and greeting his co-workers. Crow found Miller’s words extremely accurate: the II Department was the brain of justice. Considering combat skills, the investigators were no match for the Grammaton Clerics – even the Second Class - since they undergone only the standard weapon training. But without II Department tracking down sense offenders would be much more difficult – if not impossible. As a result of progressive specialization, which began right after Preston’s unsuccessful revolt, the job, done formerly by Clerics, fell on James Crow and the other investigators. The Tetragrammaton structure started to expand and the Clerics were reduced to the role of incredibly efficient killing machines that struck whenever they were given the target. Once in the R&D Department, James saw for the first time the Tetragrammaton laboratory. Lots of people in white outfits could be seen as they were performing their research. Just after a while James noticed a staff member who didn’t look busy and decided to question him. “James Crow, II Department” The investigator introduced himself and then went straight to the point. “What’s your name?” “Henry Swift” Answered the questioned man “I’m investigating the disappearance of Martin Stein. “ “Disappearance?” The staff member looked at the investigator, apparently clueless. “The only thing I know is that he was here day before yesterday.” “That’s true,” Crow interrupted. “But the thing is, he hadn’t left any notice or any information about his current whereabouts. He hasn’t been at his unit as well.” Henry Swift only shook his head. “Who in this department knows Martin and could give me the information needed?” James decided that the questioned man knew indeed nothing. After a moment of thinking, Swift answered: “Ask Michael Dorn, the tall, thin, white-haired man who stands next to the computers. He worked together with Martin.” “Thank you.” James answered and looked in the mentioned direction. After a while he spotted a man, who matched the description and headed towards him. “James Crow, II Department. Are you Michael Dorn?” “Yes” The scientist nodded. “How can I help you?” “I’m investigating the disappearance of Martin Stein,” answered the investigator. “And I need all the information you can provide me with.” He added. “Such as?” James prepared his notebook and asked: “For how long have you been working together?” “For ten years” Michael answered. The answer was noted. “As far as I know Martin is a skilled chemist specialized in Prozium.” James continued. “A brilliant one,” the scientist agreed. “And yes, Prozium was his main object of research.” “Did he give you any hint about not coming to work?” “No” Dorn said. “Day before yesterday he told me that he’ll bring me next day results of certain experiments I asked him about.” “Can you speak German?” Michael remained silent for the moment and, after a while of thinking, he answered: “I’m of a German origin, but, to be honest, I hadn’t been that much in contact with the language.” “Can you translate?” Crow insisted. “Translate what?” “This.” James handed Michael his findings and added, “If you open the book, you’ll see Martin’s notes. I have to get them translated as soon as possible. The same goes with this document and the folder.” The scientist flicked through “Father’s Word” and saw the mentioned notes. He also took a look at the printed document and at the folder. After reading few of the notes, he eventually said: “I think I might give it a try. But I’ll need two days.” James, after a moment of hesitation, answered: “All right, I’ll come for them day after tomorrow.” Michael nodded. “Damn,” the investigator thought, “I’m stuck for two days.” Crow was about to head towards exit, but suddenly another question appeared in his head. He decided to voice it: “Had Martin ever had any doubts about what he is doing?” “Doubts?” The scientist asked with a shadow of confusion apparently showing through the wearing off Prozium. “There’s no room for them, is it?” Michael looked at the investigator cautiously. “No” Crow answered. “There isn’t.” In this moment Dorn’s watch started to beep, reminding him about taking his next dose. As investigator Crow left the laboratory, Michael opened the book. “There is no room for doubts. Or is it?” A new thought like an uninvited guest appeared in Michael’s mind.
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Post by Witcher Wolf on Apr 5, 2005 4:48:32 GMT -5
Nice addition there MaWa keep it up, you're more than welcome regarding Hunt etc
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Post by Sontin-JudasFm on Apr 9, 2005 15:13:13 GMT -5
Interesting developments...I can't wait to see where this is leading ;D More please!
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Post by mawa on Apr 11, 2005 12:19:27 GMT -5
Chapter IV After leaving the Tetragrammaton laboratory Crow sighed. As he figured, he could only hope to get his findings at least partially translated and try to figure out, whom else might he question. Without the resources from the Central Database he could only rely on this type of information. Being absolutely sure that it was Revan who stood behind the database failure he had to admit that the attack was perfectly timed. As a firm non-believer in coincidence, he presumed – and this presumption was growing stronger every minute – that the second hack had to do with his investigation. Feeling a need to confirm his suspicions and to find out what exactly happened, Crow decided to question the computer technicians, who were attempting now to restore the database. Suddenly, while thinking about his further course of action, he was stopped by three Security Officers. “Investigator James Crow?” One of them asked. “Yes,” was the answer. “We’re running a random blood test. Please give me your hand, Sir!” Crow stretched his left hand towards the Security Officer, who took out an EPPT. Within a brief moment the officer took a sample of the investigator’s blood. Two seconds later the results were ready. “Thank you, Sir, it’s positive. Let’s go!” said the officer to his companions. “Wait a moment!” Crow said, before the three officers left. “I have a few questions to you, Officer…” “Jones, Sir.” “Were you present at the moment of finding Frank Revan?” Crow asked while getting his notebook ready. “No, I wasn’t there,” was Jones’ answer. “But I was,” the other officer said. The investigator looked at him with his notebook ready and asked: “What’s your name, Officer?” “Patrick Smith.” “So you came to arrest Frank Revan and found him dead, right?” “Yes. I came along with other three officers and Revan was already dead.” James noted meticulously. “Where did you find him?” “In the Tech Section.” “Did he tamper with the computers?” “I’m not sure, Investigator. But the fact is, that one of the computers was switched on.” “Did you find something after searching him?” The Officer thought for a moment and then answered: “Yes, we did.” “What was it?” “It was a floppy disk. I have delivered it to the Evidentiary yesterday, about 1:00 PM.” “Thank you, Officer. It’s all I wanted to know.” As the security staff left, the investigator decided to head straight to the Evidentiary and, after obtaining the needed piece of evidence, question the computer technicians. The Evidentiary Storage Officer, who was having his duty hours, stood up as soon as he saw the investigator. “Investigator James Crow speaking. Is there any piece of evidence brought yesterday early afternoon by Security Officer Patrick Smith?” The Officer started to check his logs and, after a moment, answered: “Yes, sir, there is such an entry.” “What item is it?” “It’s a floppy disk,” the officer stated. “This is the thing I’m looking for. Get it for me.” Crow ordered. “Yes Sir!” The Officer replied and headed towards the archives. In the meantime James heard someone calling him: “Crow!” James looked back and then turned around as he saw another investigator. It was Investigator Watts. “You’re investigating Stein’s case, right?” Watts started, in a fairly quiet voice. “Correct” James sighed, “It seems that at least two Departments know about that. But,” he changed the subject, “what was the other case, which Miller planned for me, but eventually handed it over to you?” “Ah, this one” Watts recalled, “It appears that the Terrorists have an infiltrator within our ranks.” “Great, that will be two now.” Crow immediately thought about Revan. “How do you know?” This time he asked aloud. “One of the Sweepers was found dead yesterday.” The other investigator started. “Any motives?” “I’m not sure.” “What do you mean?” “The victim was found without his overcoat, helmet, boots and gloves.” “Interesting” Crow immediately took a mental note. “Have you found something about Stein?” Now it was Watts who was asking. “Hm,” James thought for a while, “I have few pieces of a puzzle, but I can’t assemble anything yet.” In the same moment the Evidentiary Storage Officer brought the floppy disk and placed it on desk. “Thank you, Officer.” Crow said while taking the disk, “Watts, I’ll catch you later.” After these words he headed towards the Tech Section, in order to, as he named it, get the next piece of the puzzle. He wondered, whether Watts will figure that actually James didn’t tell him the whole truth. A theory, although still vague, started to form in the investigator’s mind and he preferred to keep it for himself. The Tech Section was placed next to the R&D Department, so James could get there right away. As he reached the section, he saw a group of computer technicians, who were working on bringing the Central Database back online. All of the seven servers, where the database had been stored, had to have their hard drives formatted. In fact, the process was somewhere half through. In the meantime, three other technicians brought about thirty external drives, on which the backup data had been stored. “Investigator James Crow,” the investigator started, “I have a few questions regarding the database malfunction. I need only one of you.” One of the technicians put away the external drives and faced Crow, who asked him the first question: “What’s your name?” “Mark Anderson.” The answer was noted and the next question came: “What did exactly happen that brought the database offline?” “A virus was planted into a system. It seems that it was specifically designed to damage the database content.” “Why hadn’t it been picked up by the anti-virus scanners?” “It is a new virus, written quite recently.” “But the scanners at least should had qualify this file as suspicious.” Crow opposed. “They should,” Anderson agreed, “But they hadn’t. Whoever had written this thing, he really knew what he was doing.” “It seems that this whoever was Frank Revan,” the investigator pointed, “he was found dead few hours ago in this very room. And he carried this.” He showed him the floppy disk. The technician looked at the disk and asked: “May I copy it? We will have to research this virus more thoroughly.” “Yes, but if you want to do it, do it now. I must return the disk to the Evidentiary.” It didn’t take Anderson long to copy the disk’s content. Right after he finished, he returned the piece of evidence to Crow. “It’s a single, executable file,” the technician explained, “Revan, if this was his job, must had accessed the database, plant the virus there and launch it right there as well. This guy was very capable; in fact, he was one of the better guys here in the Tech Section. What a mess, we won’t be able to clean it up at least until tomorrow. The e-mail will be also out of business until we bring the central servers back online.“ “How does it look with the medical computers?” “The second group is taking care of the situation now. No worries, all medical records are fully backed up.” “And the rest of the Database?” Crow asked. “The thing is, it isn’t,” Anderson said. “What do you mean it isn’t fully backed up?” the investigator asked, thinking that in his job being on Prozium is indeed a good idea. “The A, B and C Class documents are backed up in hundred percent, Anderson explained, “But backing up of the first pieces of data from the Monitoring Centre was scheduled for tomorrow. Now, we have absolutely nothing to back up.” “Did Revan know about that?” Anderson nodded. “What was the status of the Monitoring Centre before the hack?” “All Libria gates were monitored, but nothing more. The rest of the system should become fully operational in about six weeks.” “All right. Thank you, Anderson.” Investigator Crow closed his notebook and headed back to his office. His theory started to take a more distinct shape and he wanted now to sketch the scheme on paper. Getting a blank sheet of paper and a pencil, he indeed started to make notes: 07.05.2040 – disappearance of Martin Stein
07.05.2040 – house searching ( various German notes found ), found Stein’s private lab. A CD found, but no computer or laptop. Car missing. Stein doesn’t give any hint about his disappearance.
07.05.2035 – Central Database failure. The cause: virus planted by F. Revan. F. Revan, a computer technician, found dead with a piece of hard evidence ( an infected floppy disk ). Cause of death: poison. Further comments: He must have known that his previous hack was detected. Apparently, he didn’t care about any precautions. But where the hell did he get cyanide?
08.05.2040 - Database backup: all data from the Monitoring Centre irreversibly lost. Revan knows the data hasn’t been backed up yet.
08.05.2040 – Watts told me that a sweeper had been found dead one day earlier, without his helmet, boots, gloves and overcoat. That could be a perfect disguise… Must ask Watts for further info.
10.05.2040 – Expecting to get the notes at least partially translated, being particularly interested in Stein’s comments found in the book. Why does he use German? And what is this “vital research”? Something related to Prozium I assume.
James looked at his notes once again to see whether it makes any sense and felt, that something vital was still eluding him. He needed evidence. The Vice-Council needed evidence.
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Post by Sontin-JudasFm on Apr 11, 2005 12:26:55 GMT -5
Yet another gripping chapter ;D The plot's really starting to thicken now; I can't wait for more!
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Post by Witcher Wolf on Apr 13, 2005 6:28:36 GMT -5
Coming on really well there MaWa! Keep going Looking forwards to seeing the next development :>
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Post by mawa on Apr 22, 2005 13:44:59 GMT -5
Chapter V “There is no enemy nearly as vicious and dangerous as human emotions. It was the hardest one to fight, for emotions were an incurable disease, inherent to every human being. But not anymore! There is a cure for this disease – a triumph of human intellect upon human drives – Prozium; our salvation, our key to perfection.”“And our invention.” Michael Dorn thought, while reading Stein’s copy of “Father’s Word”. The old scientist was trying to translate his colleague’s notes, but he had a hard time, since he hasn’t been using German for years. But that investigator, whose name Dorn tried to recall, urged him to translate them. In what way would it be helpful, Michael didn’t know. But order is an order, Dorn thought, and he proceeded with the book. “The foundation of our state is more solid than rock. It is the pure Reason, without the irrational part of our natures – an equation without the unknowns. It’s our stronghold against wars. Peace will last and the war will become a term, which meaning will fade from our understanding.”Dorn rewrote the fragment and the corresponding comments on a separate sheet of paper. He translated those comments he could understand and put a question mark by those he couldn’t understand at all. He didn’t intend to translate every single comment, since he figured that a part of them will suffice. “There is still so much to do,” the scientist thought, looking on Stein’s folder, lying nearby. “Damn, I’m a scientist, not a translator!” As Michael Dorn was making progress, he started to understand the strange question he was asked. And he didn’t like the answer which started to form in his mind. It took few more hours before Dorn was eventually done with the book. The document was another challenge. Written in a difficult way, it was mainly beyond Dorn’s German skills. He found only five sentences, which he was more or less able to translate. Finding this one too difficult to tackle, he decided to move on to the last thing – the folder. It contained a lot of content as well. Dorn wasn’t sure what Stein exactly meant by writing “The ultimate solution” on the cover, but he wanted to find out. The content turned out to be more familiar to Dorn – mainly due to large amount of chemical formulas. Although he couldn’t understand the majority of the German comments, he could understand the chemical reactions, since they were related to the research, which he was conducting together with Stein. As he studied the notes suddenly something struck him. Dorn realized that something was wrong there – definitely wrong. He studied the formulas once again, very carefully. The results were beyond doubt. Michael had worked with Stein too long to be mistaken. “Martin,” he whispered. “That’s not possible.” But Stein’s notes pointed otherwise. Michael Dorn had his orders and he knew what to do. He picked up a phone and dialed a number, in order to request the meeting with the Vice-Council. * * * At the same time, Crow was making a call to Watts, in order to acquire some more details on his investigation. He couldn’t explain why, but he somehow sensed that there could be a connection. Not entirely sure whether he was right, he waited until Watts picked up the phone. “James Crow speaking. Watts, I need some… additional details on your investigation. Two things, to be more specific.” “Hm”, Watts thought for a while, “Crow, I don’t think I can tell you everything. Why are you so interested in my case?” “Let’s say that there might be a possible link between our cases. I can’t say for sure before you provide me with some information.” Crow stressed the word some. “All right. What do you want to know?” “The Sweeper’s identity and his exact time of death.” “We’re working on this one. The body was burned thus identification is impossible without the DNA sample. There was no trace of his ID as well. We got the DNA sample, but before the identification process had the chance to begin, the whole Database went down, including medical servers, where the genetic profiles are stored.” “And I thought it couldn’t get any worse. Oh sweet naivety,” James thought. “I’ll get back to you as soon as the identification process is complete, by phone or by e-mail.” Watts assured and hung up. “This damn computer network.” James thought. On one of his early cases he learned the hard way that he should store all of the relevant data on CDs. He also learned not to rely entirely on any computer database. He looked again at the telephone. Following unclear calls of his instinct, he dialed up the Police Forces’ extension. “Paul Smith here, who’s speaking?” “James Crow speaking. Paul, I need the names of the Sweepers that were sent to the Nethers on Monday between 6 and 9 AM. Detailed lineup of every single patrol, including the time of deployment.” “Monday, you say? Well, that was a busy day, as you know. It’ll take a couple of hours.” “All right. Send it to me on my e-mail. You remember my e-mail address, right?” “Sure I do.” “Send me the lists as soon as you can.” Crow said and hung up. Possibly, it was a next piece of puzzle. But the dead Sweeper could be as well not related to the case. James couldn’t be sure until the identification is complete. Now all he had to do was to wait. * * * 09.05.2040 – I asked Watts about the Sweeper’s identity, but I haven’t acquired any information yet, since the medical computers went offline as well.
10.05.2040 – Finally the Database is up & running. Today I should get the notes translated. I’m still waiting for the info from Watts and from Smith. I must have something to back up my theory. Vice-Council won’t accept bare words. James Crow looked at his cup of coffee. Yesterday was the worst day in this investigation. Due to the fact, that the Database wasn’t working and that Michael Dorn wasn’t ready with the translations it was rather fruitless. It was the third day, so Crow still had the entire week. However, he knew he’ll need some time to search for Stein. Martin Stein is outside Libria. Dead or alive – I don’t know yet.Crow stared blankly at the computer screen and he spotted a notice in the right bottom corner of it: 2 INCOMING MESSAGES “Yes, that should be it,” he thought and checked his e-mail. Indeed, these were the messages he was waiting for. He checked the one from Watts first. “James, the identification is confirmed. The victim was identified as Richard Simons. Estimated time of death – between 5 and 6 AM, on Monday. If you find the link, e-mail me. I can’t figure out the motive.”
Harry Watts, II DepartmentThe message from Paul contained the list of deployed Sweepers, sorted by an hour. James had to admit there were plenty of names, but only one of them interested him. James activated the search feature and typed the victim’s name. Richard Simons, 1 result “Getting there,” he thought as he was browsing the details. He noted down the details that interested him. Richard Simons, deployed 7:45 AM, East Gate, Sector 5C As soon as he took the necessary notes, he started to write e-mail to Watts. After he sent it, he wanted to finish his coffee, but a sudden telephone prevented this. “James Crow, II Department,” the investigator answered mechanically “Who is speaking?” “It’s Michael Dorn, V Department,” was the answer, “I am ready with the translations, but I wasn’t able to understand all of the content.” “Go ahead” Crow listened carefully. “I translated some of the comments from the book. I also worked on the contents of the folder, but I cannot speak about them, since those pieces of information are classified.” “And the printed document?” “Incomprehensible,” Dorn answered, “There were only five sentences which I was able to understand.” “I’ll come for those documents in a few minutes” Crow said. “All right,” Dorn agreed. “I’ll give you all documents but the folder.” “Why?” The investigator became alerted. “It contains information, which is supposed to be known only to Stein, me and the Vice-Council.” the scientist explained. “ These are direct orders” “All right. Order is an order,” Crow agreed, “ And I’ll have to do without the folder,” he concluded and hung up.
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Post by mawa on Apr 22, 2005 13:48:19 GMT -5
Secrets. Crow encountered many of them, but this one seemed especially shady and, in a way, tedious. Suspecting, that it is something extremely relevant to this research, mentioned by the Vice-Council, he wasn’t able, even approximately, to assess, what did those formulas mean. The description on Stein’s folder was the only clue. “The ultimate solution,” he thought, while heading for the V Department, “Well, add to it Stein’s specialization – Prozium. The result could be… No, that’s impossible! Prozium II is fully implemented, it works fine when properly dosed. Why improve… Improve? In which direction?” First Crow rejected this thought as completely impossible. But just few seconds later he actually found several arguments backing it up. The first one was Stein’s specialization. Besides, the Vice-Council stated, the research could not be continued without him, which, combined with his career path, strengthened the investigator in his theory about the research. “Here are the translated findings,” Dorn said as the investigator approached him, “This is all I could do. I hope it’ll be enough for you”. Crow took the papers, read them carefully and saw what follows: “Peace will last and the war will become a term, which meaning will fade from our understanding”“If there is peace, why do the furnaces still burn?” – was Stein’s comment. “It was the hardest on to fight, for emotions were an incurable disease, inherent to every human being. But not anymore! There is a cure for this disease – a triumph of human intellect upon human drives – Prozium; our salvation, our key to perfection”“Now refined to its final stage.”“There is no enemy nearly as vicious and dangerous as human emotions.”“There is no enemy nearly as vicious and dangerous as ideology.”“We won’t have to be afraid of ourselves anymore.”“So that’s what it’s all about!”“Sooner or later no-one will be willing to reject what our great society has achieved”“Soon no-one will be able to do it.”“Are you sure you got the meaning right?” Crow didn’t even look at Dorn as he was asking the question. “Sir, I only translated those sentences I was absolutely sure about.” Crow nodded and continued to read carefully and eventually came to the final sentence, which read: Gibt es Vorzüglichkeit - dann gibt es keinen Menschen.The translation followed: Is there perfection – then there’s no human.[/b] * * * The Vice-Council DuPont was about to finish reading his messages, when Michael Dorn appeared with a folder. He looked at the scientist cautiously and started: “You requested a meeting with me, Mr. Dorn.” “Yes” the scientist confirmed. “What is the reason of your request?” DuPont gazed at Dorn with strange intensity. “It involves the research” Dorn replied. “Go on” DuPont nodded. “Two days ago, Investigator James Crow came to me with several notes belonging to Martin Stein, which were written in German and with his copy of “Father’s Word.” Dorn started, “Since Crow doesn’t know this language, he asked me to translate. The things I found out are the reasons of my request.” “Could you be more specific?” “I found in his notes something that puts the research in jeopardy, I worked with him long enough to be sure that it is neither a mistake nor coincidence.” “In what way?” “This could reverse the results of the experiment.” “What?” in DuPont’s seemingly calm tone Dorn a menacing note could be heard, “Give me the folder.” The scientist placed the folder on desk. The Vice-Council started to browse them and, after a moment, he said: “I didn’t know you speak German that good.” “Sir, I don’t understand the comments, but I understand the formulas,” Dorn disagreed, “Martin Stein is working against us now.” Vice-Council’s eyes narrowed as he heard that. “It seems that I’ll have to speak with Investigator Crow,” he said eventually “You may leave now.” As Michael Dorn left, DuPont thought: “I’ll have to do something with this.” While heading back to the lab Dorn realized something. Even those most important to the system may betray. If this continues to happen, Libria will fall and in order to prevent is, Dorn had to complete the experiment. He told himself that he, unlike Stein, will remain faithful to the system. Michael didn’t know what were the reasons behind his colleague’s treason. And he realized that he doesn’t want to know.
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Post by Witcher Wolf on Apr 22, 2005 14:24:41 GMT -5
*clapclapclaps*
Another interesting instalment there MaWa, nicely done!
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Post by Libby on Apr 22, 2005 16:24:27 GMT -5
I like this more and more MaWa....it's a real detective story with a twist. The characters are fleshing out really well now and I'm enjoying closely following them as they uncover the truth.
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Post by mawa on May 2, 2005 4:07:39 GMT -5
Author's note: thanks for the comments, guys The story continues and I prepared some suprises for Crow along the way *evil grin*. Enjoy!Chapter VI Looking at Dorn’s translations and a pile of documents printed out from the Database’s resources, James Crow could at least say now, that he solved a part of the puzzle. Martin Stein betrayed and escaped from Libria. Hadn’t he done that, he would be found very quickly – anonymous reports remained one of the most effective ways of capturing offenders. 11.05.2040 – It’s not just Stein I am looking for. It’s the classified knowledge the Vice-Council is about. Knowledge that – if not us – would serve the Resistance. Knowledge which must be extremely sensitive, if it lead the creator of Prozium to treason.The phone rang, interrupting Crow. “Investigator Crow, you are to report to the Vice-Council on the double,” was the order. “Yes Sir” Crow answered, knowing that sooner or later the Vice-Council will request him to report on his investigation. He took the translations and headed out. “Investigator Crow,” the Vice-Council started, as James entered the office, “You know why did I call you, don’t you?” “Yes” “So,” DuPont looked at the investigator curiously, “what have you found so far?” “Martin Stein is not on our side anymore. Besides, the gathered information allows me to assume, that he is now somewhere in the Nethers. More, the Tetragrammaton was being infiltrated.” DuPont raised his eyebrows. “Continue,” he said. “As for the treason,” James started “ it became clear to me, when I read some of Stein’s notes. One of the scientists, Michael Dorn, translated them for me.” Crow handed the notes to the Vice-Council. As DuPont read them, he felt anger – at Martin and at himself, for letting Stein out of control. Still maintaining a perfectly calm face, he asked Crow: “What about your other conclusions?” “About Stein’s whereabouts.” The investigator continued “Well, Stein possesses some sensitive information. If he…” Crow hesitated “ ceased his support for Libria – and these notes prove it in an explicit way – he would probably like to hand this data over to the terrorists. I’m absolutely sure he is in the Nethers, in the Eastern sectors.” “Yes, quite logical,” DuPont agreed, “But I assume you have more to say, don’t you, Investigator?” “I have a theory, Sir” Crow answered. “Go on.” DuPont nodded. “The escape was prepared. I have reasons to assume that Martin Stein managed to escape disguised as a Sweeper with one of the earliest patrols.” “Interesting. What proof do you have?” DuPont said. “Here it is,” Crow handed the Vice-Council the e-mails he received. DuPont looked at them for a while and said to his secretary: “Contact me with the II Department, with Investigator Watts.” “Right away, Sir” The Vice-Council picked up the phone and talked for a while. Apparently, he reached Watts and asked him about the details of his investigation. After about two minutes he finished the conversation and looked curiously at the investigator. “How do you think he could slip into a police van, completely unnoticed, using an ID of a Sweeper killed just hours earlier and getting the armament from the storeroom?” “Well, the death occurred between 5 and 6 AM. Simons should be heading for work, so he already wore his uniform. He could be killed on the way. Sweeper uniform is a perfect disguise. Stein’s face could be easily concealed by the crash helmet. Besides, no slightest trace of victim’s ID was found, so I’m sure Stein used it. Still, he couldn’t prepare the escape alone.” “What do you mean?” “We have some terrorist undercovers within the Tetragrammaton.” “Proof, Crow. Proof.” DuPont slightly knocked the desk with his fingers. “Someone knew the patrol schedule. Someone knew where the Sweeper lives and where he was heading to work. Someone knew which Sweeper to pick as a target. After all, the uniform size had to fit Stein.” “Quite logical.” DuPont had to admit. “Still, you suggest that there are more than one undercover.” “Maybe. The one I have on my mind is was Frank Revan, a computer technician. He killed himself by swallowing some cyanide.” “Cyanide is restricted,” the Vice-Council pointed. “Exactly” Crow agreed “The only place where he could get it from, are the labs. I guess Stein somehow smuggled the dose”. “Interesting. Very interesting.” The Vice-Council said. “And plausible,” he added after a while. “There is only one way we can find out, whether your theory is accurate. Our best Clerics will assist you in your search.” Two First Class Clerics were summoned. James Crow, ordered to wait until their arrival wondered, what factor caused Stein to become a sense offender. He figured Martin was a man of logic – “A perfect human being, free from the flaws of emotions,” according to Father’s teachings. But if logic and emotions were deemed contradictory, then why the analysis of “Father’s Word” didn’t prevent Stein from treason? The answer eluded him. In the meantime the Two Clerics came. “Cleric Andrew Ross and Cleric Gabriel Stein,” DuPont started “You are assist James Crow in a search for Martin Stein, who defected to the terrorists with some extremely sensitive information. It is critical that you find him.” “Yes Sir,” both Clerics answered. “Sir,” Crow asked, pointing with his head in the direction of Cleric Stein “Is it this Stein?” “Yes,” the Vice-Council answered “Why do you ask, Investigator?” “I don’t think it’s a good idea…” “Investigator,” DuPont interrupted icily “He’s one of the very best and he will take part in this search. Are you questioning my orders?” “No, Sir.” Crow answered. “Let it stay that way. You may leave, Investigator.” James turned around on his heel and, when he was about to leave the office, Cleric Stein said: “Never question my loyalty, Investigator. Traitor is a traitor, no matter the surname he bears.” “I won’t,” he answered and left, with a dampened, but still present feeling of uneasiness. “Clerics,” DuPont said, when the doors were closed, “Keep an eye on Crow. Don’t let him, under any circumstances, question Stein. Understood?” “Yes, Sir,” both Clerics answered. The expedition was almost ready. As the Sweepers were taking their places in the police vans, a Sweeper Commander approached Crow: “Investigator, our most recent reports indicate the terrorists’ activity in Sector 5E.” “Good. We’ll start from there, Commander.” “Yes, Sir.” Crow and the two Clerics got in the police van as well and, after a moment, the whole expedition pulled out. Sector 5E, one of the least devastated places in the Nethers, was apparently a former residential district. Lines of houses, more or less damaged, looked still fairly good, compared to the Nethers’ standards. Located pretty far from Libria, the sector bore code E, meaning that it was the last area within the Nethers, which was in patrols’ range. Letter F meant wastelands, where no buildings were present – just burned, mostly barren soil, where only the most resilient life forms could survive. “They are moving back,” Cleric Gabriel Stein started. “Soon they will have no place to hide and we’ll get them all, eventually.” “How do you know there won’t be new sense offenders to pursue?” James Crow asked. “There won’t be anyone left to misguide them,” the Cleric replied in a monotone voice. “If yes, it won’t happen fast,” Crow thought. “But,” suddenly a new thought appeared in his mind “let’s assume the Cleric is right and there is no-one left to oppose. What will be the purpose of the Tetragrammaton – sweepers, clerics, investigators. If there will be no offence to trace - will that be human thoughts, that we will have to trace? There are invisible, thus impossible to track down. A visible enemy is needed.” “Who could misguide Martin Stein, the creator of Prozium?” the Investigator asked. “I don’t know,” Cleric Stein asked. “But does it matter? You are asking too many questions, Investigator.” “That’s my job, Cleric,” Crow rebutted. “Your job is to seek for every sign of treason, Investigator. Our job is to destroy it.” Crow decided that further discussion would be too risky. The young Stein was well taught. Maybe even too well. Eventually, the patrol stopped. It didn’t take long before everyone got out, including the Clerics. “This is the area, mentioned in the reports,” the Sweeper Commander informed, “We don’t know whether they changed their location.” “Let’s proceed,” Crow replied and the team began the search. “Stay out of the first line, Investigator. You’re not trained in the offensive procedures,” Cleric Stein said, without looking at Crow. “I’m not trained in killing everyone in sight, indeed,” Crow thought, checking his pistol. The search began and house by house was scoured for any human presence. Crow and the Clerics conducted the search from the bottom to the top – in vain. “Nothing there,” Cleric Ross stated. Something felt different. This wasn’t Crow’s first search in the Nethers – but it was a first time he came up against a place that seemed completely deserted. No trace of human, no trace of EC-10 – just empty buildings, part of them partially ruined, were to be found. Only the sounds made by the search team disturbed the dead silence. James scanned the surroundings once again, to make sure he didn’t miss anything. “This place is dead. Let’s move on. We’ve got still a lot to do. Keep your eyes peeled,” he ordered.
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Post by mawa on May 2, 2005 4:10:01 GMT -5
* * * “Jack, they’re getting closer,” a man, who, even for an untrained eye, looked like a sense offender, said to his companion. “If they’ll keep going in this direction, they are going to have our ass.” “Damn,” the other sentry sworn. “Adam, I told Jackson that after the last incident we should move out of this sector, not just one hundred meters away!” “Where?” Adam asked “Given the fact that it is the last habitable sector in the Nethers and the other ones are crawling with the police, we don’t have much choice, do we? This is the only place where we can risk hiding.” “Yeah, yeah,” Jack muttered. “Let’s see what have we got here. Hm. Two Sweeper teams, two Clerics First Class and a strange guy in a gray uniform. He doesn’t look like a Cleric to me.” “Let me take a look,” Adam took Jack’s binoculars. After a while he stated “Fuck, now we’re toast. This guy in gray is an Investigator. Unlike Clerics, Investigators are possible to be killed, but in searching skills they exceed Clerics. They’re after that old man, no doubt about it. Wait!” The sentry continued to look through the binoculars. “They probably are about to turn left. We might be lucky this time! Yes, they are getting in the vans!” Adam’s voice was getting excited. “Hey, let me see it! That would be too good to be true!” Jack looked through the binoculars for a longer while. “What?” His companion was getting impatient. “I’m gonna kill this red bastard as soon as I get my hands on him! It seems like he’s trying to stop them. Yes, they’re getting out again! And they are heading in OUR direction! We’re in deep shit. Better move out and inform the others on the double!” Adam didn’t have to hear the order twice. Now being genuinely nervous, he took a last look back and ran towards the Resistance hideout, located just three blocks from the makeshift sentry post. “We’ve got a search team heading our way,” he reported, as he bursted into the hideout. “How large is it?” A man in his mid forties, apparently in charge of the group, asked. “Two Sweeper teams, two Grammaton Clerics First Class, and one Investigator.” “Investigator, you say. That means they are after our guest. Besides, two Sweeper teams and two First Class Clerics mean trouble.” “We can’t defend ourselves here.” Adam stated. “Not with two Grammaton Clerics being hot on our heels.” “Agreed. But I’ve got a better idea…” “Like what? Surrendering? Then we are toast, Jackson. Literally.” “You don’t understand,” the man smiled nastily, “You forgot about the B Compound”. A spark of understanding appeared in Adam’s eyes and even a more nasty smile appeared on his face. “The passage?” he asked. “Yes. There are quite a few surprises awaiting for uninvited guests. Gather everyone and order them to move to the B Compound. And make sure the Clerics and the Investigator will take that passage.” “Oh, yes” Adam answered and ran to carry out the plan. * * * “Now, this looks like a good place to hide.” Cleric Ross stated, after spotting an unusually big detached house, located almost at the end of the sector. “It’s almost intact and large enough to stock stockpiles of EC-10 in. Yes, we should check this one.” Crow agreed with Ross’ assessment. “All right, let’s move in,” he ordered. “Four Sweepers are coming with us”. Four volunteers along with the Clerics and Crow entered the house, while the rest of the Sweepers surrounded it and got their weapons ready to shoot every sense offender that would dare to come out. “Hm. EC-10 material.” Cleric Stein stated as he saw pictures hanging on the walls along with some drawings, probably made by the sense offenders themselves. “They must be here somewhere.” The search team looked into every room, finding no-one. Upstairs, aside from more EC-10 material, such as books and paintings, they found nobody as well. “Anybody got a flamethrower?” Cleric Stein asked. “Our primary objective is to find Martin Stein, Cleric.” Crow answered. Stein looked at Crow. A bugging feeling of impatience which, though always dampened by Prozium, never fully abandoned him, now started to surface, which was an imminent sign that the dose started to wear off. He couldn’t wait for the day to come when the last sense offender will be killed, the last piece of EC-10 will be burned – and he, Gabriel Stein, will be the one, who pulls the trigger. Gabriel’s watch beeped, reminding him to take the next dose of Prozium. His hand wandered to the pocket of his coat, searching for the PIU. Stein grabbed it firmly, as if it wanted to run away and, after injecting the next dose, he felt that nothing distracted him this time. Reaching again a Cleric state of mind, he stated: “There’s still the cellar left. Let’s move.” The team moved back to the hall, where the entrance to the cellar was located. As one of the sweepers opened the door, he had to light his flashlight in order to see something. A dark corridor lead downstairs. Carefully, the team descended downstairs. “They must have hidden here somewhere,” the Sweeper, who entered as first, said. “Look what I’ve found.” Crow looked at the item. It was a fairly worn book. The Investigator had some, difficulties to make out the letters on the cover. “Ray Bradbury. Fahrenheit 451,“ he read. „We’re going to burn it later, along with other EC-10. Be careful.” He said, while putting the book in his pocket. They eventually reached the cellar. Unlike the previously searched rooms, this one seemed completely empty. “Are they invisible or what?” one of the Sweepers asked. “There is a more rational explanation” Cleric Ross answered. “Over there,” he pointed with a flashlight. “A trap door”. One of the Sweepers approached cautiously the trap door, examined it and opened. He didn’t know that by doing this he pulled out a safety pin. A grenade that was installed beneath, exploded, killing the Sweeper instantly. Fortunately for the rest of the team, they were far enough to avoid any damage. “They were expecting us” Ross said “Proceed with caution, one by one.” The Sweepers obeyed and descended one by one, with their flashlights on, keeping a safe distance. They scanned the passage very carefully, looking for every possible trap. “Nothing there. Let’s move on.”
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Post by mawa on May 2, 2005 4:10:51 GMT -5
A brief moment of inattention sufficed. The leading Sweeper stepped on one of the planks, that were lying around. It broke under his weight and caused him to fall into a pit. The fall proved fatal, because he fell on several sharp stakes, fixed there.
“They thought about everything, didn’t they?” one of the remaining Sweepers stated rather than asked.
“What a mess.” The other Sweeper said, when he saw some more planks leaning against a wall and a pile of junk, which made the corridor much harder to pass. “How did they get through this?”
“I’m not touching it”
“Wait! There’s some kind of door” Indeed, right beside the pile, there was a wooden door.
“Don’t touch them! Hell knows what’s behind them!”
“Am I supposed to go through this junk? Now there they could hide some nasty things.”
“But don’t you think that going through the door would be too easy?”
“Do you think that the whole group of Sense Offenders would go through this pile of junk?”
“I don’t know. You go first!”
The Sweeper, who didn’t want to go through the junk, pressed the handle, which turned out to be a fatal mistake. Electric shock was another surprise prepared by the Resistance members for the intruders. The Sweeper didn’t have any chance of surviving.
The last remaining Sweeper aimed his machine gun and started shooting at the pile.
“Stop it!” Cleric Ross ordered. “The last thing we need is that the whole Resistance knows are exact location, Sweeper!”
“How am I supposed to know, what’s in there?” the Sweeper answered.
Fear. Cleric Ross sensed it instantly. In some cases the fear was so strong, that it overrid the effect of Prozium. This never happened to the Clerics – their training effectively prevented that. But the Sweepers – especially the young and with relatively little experience, such as this one – they could fall a victim to it.
“Take another dose, Sweeper,” Ross said.
The Sweeper obeyed, but didn’t manage to inject the dose. A single gunshot ended his life. It was Cleric Stein, who drew the gun and shot the Sweeper.
Both Ross and Crow stared at him in a brief moment of disbelief.
“What do you think you’re doing, Cleric?” the Investigator eventually managed to ask. “Killing one of our men, while our resources are wearing thin? Is that what they taught you in the Monastery?”
“Such sudden manifestations of emotion as this act of panic cannot be tolerated,” Cleric Stein answered.
“True, but radical solutions aren’t always the best. An extra dose would work just fine in this case.” Cleric Rose said. He preferred to keep other remarks, that he was tempted to voice, to himself. “Let’s move.”
Ross lead the way. Concluding that the pile poses no threat, he pushed the planks so they fell on the floor. Next, he squeezed himself through and so did the others.
“Their inventiveness is impressive,” Crow said. “I don’t think it was the last of the traps they set here.”
“Neither do I,” Ross agreed.
Both were right. The Clerics noticed on the way three suspiciously looking threads and an oddly placed metal plate. They managed to get through without triggering the traps and eventually they reached another trap door. Cleric Ross carefully examined it.
He didn’t notice anything suspicious in the door itself, but his clerical instinct told him that he should expect something right upstairs. He drew one of his guns and with the other hand he lifted gently the trap door. The place was rather dark, so the Cleric waited, until his eyes adopt to the darkness.
After a while Ross could distinguish the shapes and outlines. From what he could tell, it was a small room, seemingly abandoned. Still, the silence was suspicious. Ross, now alerted, got out and while upstairs, drew his second gun. Relying now on his acute hearing rather than his sight, he searched for any sign of threat. Cleric Stein and Investigator Crow waited downstairs.
Ross assessed, that the room was empty. The only thing he noticed was a door. He came closer in order to see them better. Still remembering, how one of the Sweepers died, he fired a few shots into the lock and kicked the door.
Behind there was another corridor, which made Ross even more alert. He had to admit, that this Resistance group was exceptionally smart. He could forget about the Gun Kata in a narrow corridor.
In the meantime, Gabriel Stein and James Crow came upstairs, drawing their guns as well, and, after their eyes adopted to the darkness, they followed Ross, keeping the safe distance.
Andrew Ross proceeded carefully, expecting some more booby traps. This corridor was narrower that the underground passage, so he would have a hard time avoiding possible traps.
The Resistance fighters made use of this advantage mercilessly. Ross heard a barely audible sound and instinctively jumped back, falling on the ground. It turned out that his hearing and years of training saved his life. A second later an explosion shook the place, knocking out Cleric Ross.
“Damn, a proximity grenade! Stay back, Investigator!” Cleric Stein ordered.
Crow obeyed. He had a nagging feeling that someone wanted them to take this route. Feeling like a complete fool he also was aware of the fact that there’s no turning back now. All he could do now is to remember that now Gun Kata action it its glory and effectiveness didn’t suffice and share this knowledge – if he’ll manage to get out of this alive, of course.
Cleric Stein didn’t like the fact, that there was no other way than the corridor. He wouldn’t be surprised if another proximity grenade was placed.
There was. Unfortunately, Stein’s hearing was less acute, therefore he didn’t hear the sound. The explosion threw him back and knocked him out as well. But the worst thing were the shrapnels that wounded him.
Crow froze. Now he was alone. He held his gun wondering how to get through. He wasn’t a Cleric. The only thing he shared with them was the instinct. And this very instinct told him what to do. Crow held his gun tighter and ran through the corridor like mad. One grenade exploded right behind him. Fortunately, Crow was fast enough and managed to reach another door.
This time he risked pushing the handle. Nothing happened. James opened the door and bursted in with his gun ready to fire. This room, unlike the previous one, was dimly lit, so James could see that he was expected here.
“Put your gun down, Investigator,” one of the three Resistance fighters who were standing there and aiming their pistols at James, said.
It was the very first moment in his life when Crow wished that he was a Cleric.
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