Progeny Of The Progenitors - Part I
USS Corsair - NX-011979
Nebula II Prototype
“Sic Parvis Magna"
(Greatness From Small Beginnings)
Captain Taverain Ramius leaned against the shiny metallic railing of Starbase 343’s grand observation deck. Beyond him were massive windows and still further beyond them in her moorings was the only lady currently in his life; the USS Corsair. Her dark hull was in sharp contrast to the shiny silvers and sterile whites of the station’s interior and exterior. The entire vessel exuded a menacing aura. Its sleek lines and red exterior lighting announced it was not a ship in which to be trifled or underestimated.
Yet despite its powerful imposing stature it was taking a small army of engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel to piece her back together after her latest mission. Two weeks had passed since he had entered port his ship badly damaged hunting for evidence to use against the mega-conglomerate the NeoDyne Defense Corporation. The mission had taken a high toll on both men and machine. Corsair had suffered in combat and more than a few of the crew had made the ultimate sacrifice.
Ramius took a deep breath as his eyes traced the lines of his starship. Estimates had the Corsair docked for at least another week perhaps longer given the extensive damages to the forward hull and saucer decks. More than likely his chief engineer and the station’s repair yard would insist on several days of shakedown time to ensure repairs were satisfactory and to reveal any lingering problems.
He didn’t like the idea of sitting around waiting when NeoDyne was on the move. While he had dealt them a blow, they were no doubt off licking their wounds, time was against him. The longer he sat here the less time he could be out there searching for clues and following up on leads with the goal of ending NeoDyne’s power and influence, but most of all stopping its sinister and corrupt leader, President Alistair Merikai. The corporation’s top officer had been engaged in significant biological and genetic experimentation for years to fulfill some terrible purpose. Whatever his goals or aims one thing was clear. He had to be stopped – at any cost. He needed a smoking gun to wave before generals, admirals, and politicians or else nothing would be done to end the threat. He was confident he would find it, but the price that was being paid in blood, sweat, and equipment was monumental. The final price tag would be astronomical however how could one put a price on eliminating a mortal threat to freedom, peace, and the rule of law?
Ramius took one last look at his injured lady. He had taken a few minutes aboard the station to relax and get away from his duties aboard his ship. The doctor had demanded he take a few days shore leave, but there was far too much work waiting for him. Leaving the ship periodically for lunch or dinner was enough to keep Doctor Durandal and his spy network temporarily at bay. With NeoDyne at work throughout the galaxy, Ramius had no time for vacations or relaxation. Too much depended on him stopping the corporation and ending its reign of horrific crimes against man and nature.
Leaving the observation deck, Ramius proceeded back to the Corsair by way of the docking platform where other ships, civilians, and cargo arrived and departed. A busy location the docking platform buzzed with different cultures and a variety of vendors, goods, and services. Moving past a substantial crowd of people, Taverain noticed something was out of the ordinary as one of the airlocks was cordoned off and had grown several station security officers. A crowd had formed but had been pushed back by officers and barriers. A news affiliate was also nearby its field agent engaged in a live broadcast.
“What is going on?”
Deciding to investigate, Ramius pushed his way through the crowd reaching a line of crime tape and several security officers with annoyed expressions.
“What happened here”, Ramius asked.
“Sorry sir, I cannot comment on the situation. It is a security matter. If you would respectfully move along sir we both have work to do here.”
The officer’s obstinate answer only served to further peak Ramius’s interest.
“LOOK..SOMEONE SUSPICIOUS”, Ramius shouted pointing into the crowd. The momentary distraction gave him time to slip past the barriers and yellow tape before the guards could stop him.
“WAIT A MINUTE”, the guards yelled in tandem. This is a crime scene! YOU CAN’T GO IN!”
Ramius was growing tired of playing twenty questions with the hired help. He was only interested in what had caused so much commotion. Ignoring the guards, Ramius continued rounding the corner which was filled with station security taking photos, interviewing witnesses, and performing other crime scene tasks. He didn’t stop walking until a hand forcefully grabbed his shoulder and yanked him backwards eliciting more than an annoyed look from the captain.
“HOLD IT RIGHT THERE”, one of the guards said shoving the business end of his weapon into Ramius’s back. “You had better have a good explanation captain or else I am afraid we’re going to have to ask you to answer a few questions back at station security.”
Tav pushed the guard’s hand from his arm freeing himself. He was done playing with amateurs.
“Captain Taverain Ramius, Starfleet Intelligence, Special Projects Division. Does that answer your questions?”
“Let’s see some ID.”
Ramius produced his identification which he snatched back after the guards had inspected it.
“I apologize captain, however we…”
“Following orders. I get it. Why don’t you two get back up to the front lines and keep those dangerous crowds in check and I will try to forget about this incident.”
“Come on”, one of the guards sneered heading off leaving the captain alone.
“Finally”, Ramius muttered as the guards left him. Proceeding forward Ramius noticed half of the station’s commercial street had been closed off. Dozens of businesses were closed and evacuated. Someone had thrown out a wide net however the question was why. Something highly unusual was going on and Ramius couldn’t ignore the tiny voice within him which was warning of potential trouble on the horizon.
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Captain Taverain Ramius Commanding Officer, USS Corsair
Progeny Of The Progenitors - Part 2
Like a kid in a candy store, Ramius thrived on danger and continued down the lane of shops and booths until he encountered a rather animated human security officer and a stoic Vulcan.
“Give me that”, the human shouted snatching a padd from the Vulcan’s hands. “We don’t have time for this!”
“If I may quote regulation 146 paragraph 12 on proper procedure when dealing with…”
The human interrupted the Vulcan. “Do you have any desire to solve this case?”
“Of course, however in order to maximize our efforts in data collection, forensics, and…”
“If we follow every rule and regulation and line the walls with red tape, WE’LL NEVER CATCH THESE GUYS”, the human roared.
The flustered human looked up having spotted someone out of place and stepped passed the Vulcan directly into Ramius’s path.
“Just who are you and what are you doing here”, the man demanded.
Ramius shot the Vulcan officer a glance. The Vulcan merely returned his gaze with inquisitive eyes.
“Captain Ramius. Starfleet Intelligence.”
“Intelligence? I didn’t request any backup. Why are you here”, the man asked gruffly his voice shrill and hard on the ears.
“I was touring the station and noticed the commotion. Given the crowds and security presence I thought I might see what all the excitement was about.”
“None of your business”, the man snapped. “This is an internal matter and I don’t need Intelligence operatives snooping around fouling things up. You can just take your curiosity back with you wherever you came from. This isn’t your jurisdiction and I don’t need your help Captain.”
Ramius gave the man a sour expression. He wasn’t meddling in this officer’s case or his affairs…yet.
“Hayes, what the hell is going on down here”, a voice shouted from the distance. Ramius looked up to see the station commander approaching.
“Captain! Sir. We’re investigating the incident and searching for any trace the perpetrators may have left at the scene.”
“Investigating? While you investigate I’m losing half my station to terrorism! Do you know how many complaints I have received from the merchant’s association? You aren’t the one speaking to the media with a camera in your face! Nor do you have to deal with the public outcry. There’s a lot of people aboard this station, myself included, who are damned scared by recent events! I won’t stand by while these assassins tear apart my station!”
The captain turned noticing Ramius. “Captain Ramius isn’t it?”
Tav politely nodded.
“Captain Fujinata. Pleasure to meet you. I saw your ship arrive. Hell of a mess. How are the repairs coming?”
“Fine. However from the looks of things you too seem to have some difficulties of your own.”
The station commander nodded his face quickly losing its momentary brightness. “This is the third time in two months. A religious zealot and his followers are tearing my station apart. We do not know much about them, but there is strong evidence to believe some of the more devout are engaged in some kind of ritualistic cleansing of those they deem impure having fallen from the pure faith or perhaps wanting out. Whoever these people are or have hired they are expert professionals. No evidence, no traces, no witnesses – nothing. Worst their calling card is brutal and violent. The people targeted have all met gruesome ends. I suspect someone is sending a message, but we have few leads to follow.
The station residents and crew are on edge about recent events and we have little to show for our efforts. The damn news networks are only fueling fear and paranoia. I have Starfleet asking questions as well as several civic groups and other civilian agencies. My hands are tied when it comes to dealing with the situation for fear of being intolerant or abusive with Starfleet power. It has been a hell of a month.”
“Well I am sorry to hear of your troubles captain. Based on what you have said I would concur that someone wants to present a strong show of force. If you were dealing with professional hits I would suspect it would be a far quieter and less public affair. Can you tell me any more about this religious group you claim are behind the incidents?
Fujinata nodded. “This group showed up about a year ago here on the station. They filed the correct permits and followed normal channels. They established a small temple near the cargo bays down on deck 19. Rough area of the station. It’s more or less a cult run by some mysterious leader. We do not have any records on the group’s leader and no one has seen this man. Sermons are carried out by local faithful and this leader sends out recorded messages to his followers. They worship some alien race that went extinct several millennia ago. Rumor has it they controlled much of this area including large areas of the Neutral Zone and beyond extending into present day Romulan territory. The group claims these beings were some divine super race who endowed the universe with life possessing vast knowledge and technologies.
They have some nearly unpronounceable name for them. These alien deities are more commonly known around here as the progenitors. It’s a nickname that has sort of stuck.
Anyway these guys were perfectly peaceful until a few months ago. They suddenly became radical and we quickly received complaints of threats and violence. The group then became increasingly secretive and secluded. Members who wanted out have disappeared or been eliminated with extreme measures. The shop behind me was the latest victim. A follower was killed by a micro-explosive of some type. Fortunately no one was hurt other than the victim, however I am sure the trauma of such an experience will be with the witnesses for a very long time.”
Fujinata’s face twisted with anger. “Damn it. I can’t come down on them or else they’ll scream about religious intolerance and…I have no proof. We have been unable to find any traces of evidence linking the group and recent attacks. I can’t risk the fallout from what would be a public relations disaster if we attempted some type of action without evidence. I am forced to sit back until we can find something concrete to stop these killers. My hands are tied, but we have to do something!”
Ramius mulled over the information just as the captain turned toward him with an unusual expression.
“Captain Ramius, you work for intelligence. Perhaps you and your crew could assist us in this matter? Your ship will be undergoing repairs for at least another week or two and we could certainly use the extra help not to mention your experience and perhaps intelligence resources. I am afraid our security forces here are just not equipped to deal with such violent and professional criminals.”
“We are making progress captain”, Detective Hayes shouted. “I don’t need them in our way!”
“Hayes, you have yet to provide a single credible lead in this matter! I have residents and civic leaders ready to hunt me down if we don’t get a break in this case.”
“With all do respect sir it takes times to analyze data and interview witnesses..”
Ramius enjoyed a good mystery and these fiends terrorizing the local station population needed to be brought to justice before anyone else could be harmed.
“I will look into it”, Ramius answered interrupting the detective. “It would appear I have the time for the moment with the Corsair under repair. I will need access to your files on this group and all case materials. I will have my staff look over the data and files and I can work a few contacts to see if we cannot learn more about this group and its mysterious leadership.
With your permission captain I would like to beam aboard a small team to look at this scene. Perhaps my team can find something useful which could generate a lead?”
“Of course captain. I will ensure you receive my staff’s full cooperation. Hayes, see to it Captain Ramius and his staff have access to anything they request. I do not want any trouble or else YOU can explain to the public why our security forces have failed them time and time again. Do I make myself clear?”
“Perfectly”, Detective Hayes snapped.
“I apologize captain, but I must speak to the media about this latest incident and attempt to shore up the public’s deteriorating confidence. I pray you can find something to end the violence.”
Ramius nodded as the captain left.
Once Fujinata was out of earshot the detective quickly spoke up. “I’ll cooperate captain but this is my collar. I do not need Intelligence operatives and a bunch of cloak and dagger and special ops being conducted on my station. This is still my jurisdiction and you will run everything past me before taking matters into your own hands.”
“Detective, your passion for this case is admirable, but I wonder if it is not clouding your judgment? I am not here to steal your glory. Far from it. You have dangerous individuals threatening lives and property who must be brought to justice. We both want to see these criminals apprehended. You have your methods and I have mine. My intention is not to interfere, but to determine who and why. Surely we share the same goals? I am not here by request. I only stopped out of curiosity nothing more.”
“Just stay out of my way Ramius.” The detective turned and stormed off leaving Ramius alone wondering why the man was so irritated with his presence. If anything he thought he would appreciate the help.
Progeny Of The Progenitors - Part 3
“You must forgive the detective”, a calm voice said from afar.
Taverain turned to look at the lone Vulcan who was nearby. “He is obviously a proud and dedicated officer. He may be brash but I do not hold it against him.”
The vulcan’s eyebrow lifted slightly. “You are not what I expected.”
Tav offered a mild smile. “What did you expect? You seem to have me at a disadvantage.”
“I took the time to read your dossier when your ship docked. It is quite unusual to have such a ship, with a black hull and no paperwork, dock for repairs. I was intrigued. Your ship is as interesting as your colorful history captain.”
“I have few regrets”, Ramius offered. “However I like to know my company before speaking about my history.”
“Yes of course. My name is T’Shian. I am one of many detectives aboard the starbase.”
Ramius nodded. “Are you working on this case?”
“Affirmative. I am most gratified that you will be assisting our efforts. The perpetrators of these crimes are highly skilled and have access to sophisticated technology.”
“If your duties will permit, would you show me the crime scene?”
“Yes of course captain. Please follow me.”
Restaurant – Crime Scene
Taverain and T’Shian entered the small café where the latest murder had occurred. It was a grizzly scene. A dark, small crater in the center of the restaurant was the remaining testament to what was once a living individual. Overturned tables, chairs, broken glass, and a fine mist of blood coated the small eatery. Despite what had happened there was surprisingly little damage.
Taverain made his way to the crater and squatted down visually examining the charred floor.
“Hmm, blast was carefully focused and powerful. Has anything been moved inspector?”
“Negative captain. Everything is as it was after the incident”, T’Shian answered with a cool voice.
“This looks like a photonic blast, but confined and extremely precise. The victim was vaporized within a contained field otherwise there would be more evidence. The blast also incinerated the device itself leaving no traces. Clever. The Romulans have a device similar to this however they are expensive and highly customized units. They would not be available publically nor sold in the black market or elsewhere.”
He stood and surveyed the rest of the room before heading back outside.
“Well you won’t find much more in there. The victim was likely wearing the device before entering this establishment. Such a device would be small and easy to plant on a target without their knowledge. Has the victim been identified?”
“We are working on that now. There were some DNA fragments remaining and trace blood remnants. The security computers should have a match soon.”
“I am not as interested in the victim as I am in those he or she had contact with. Once we identify the victim we need to pull surveillance recordings in addition to locating friends, family, or other persons who may have an idea of where the victim was today and who they may have had contact with. Perhaps we can uncover a trail to the victim’s assassin by connecting a few dots.”
“How will dots aid us in solving this crime captain”, the Vulcan asked with a cool, inquisitive voice.
Ramius looked up with a slight band of amusement upon his face. “An Earth expression inspector. Forgive the usage. I believe with some coordinated effort we may be able to piece together several facts and derive a person or persons of interest who may be connected to this crime.”
“A logical course of action. Unusual to see such clarity from a former fighter pilot. My experience with such individuals reveals them to be highly emotional, erratic, and egotistical, but typically genuine. You however are quite different.”
“I am thorough. Though do not mistake me for something I am not inspector. My heart is still that of a pilot. I simply have the benefit of experience to help keep it in check most of the time.”
“Most?”
Ramius only smiled. He tapped his comm. badge.
“Ramius to Corsair.”
“Commander Novada here sir.”
“Number One, there’s been a murder committed here on the station. It appears that such incidents have been occurring with some frequency and I have been asked by the station commander to assist in the ongoing investigations while we are docked for repairs. Assemble a team to conduct an investigation of the crime scene and have them beamed over when ready. I want a full intelligence grade sweep. Have the team report their findings to me when completed. I will be returning to the Corsair within the hour. Ramius out.”
“Well T’Shian the team should arrive soon. Your help is greatly appreciated. Would you be willing to assist my team? Your familiarity with the case will greatly aid them.”
The Vulcan nodded quietly in acceptance.
“I have one additional favor to ask of you”, Ramius said his eyes dropping to the female’s slender waist.
<<NO..its not what you think! Geesh people lets not let our minds wander here. Focus. Focus!>>
“Yes captain”, came the reply as the Vulcan carefully watched the path of the human’s eyes as they settled upon her.
“Your sidearm. May I borrow it?”
“May I inquire as to why Captain Ramius?”
“I would like to pay a visit to the temple of this mysterious religion. I would like to learn more about these progenitors as well as speak with the group’s membership.”
“Captain I must warn you this group is wary of outsiders. You will not be welcomed.”
“Perhaps not as a Starfleet captain, but as a civilian, I might get a different result inspector. Especially for one interested in the faith.”
The Vulcan gave the human a perplexing look which lasted several seconds before she unholstered her phaser and extended it toward the captain. “Do you require…”
“No. I work alone. It is safer that way”, Ramius quickly answered anticipating the inspector’s question. “Thank you and I shall return this to you.”
Taverain bowed slightly before turning and heading off. Inspector T’Shian watched the man leave. “Fascinating”, she said quietly before returning to her duties.
“Ramius to Akina.”
“Akina here. Go ahead.”
“Zane, I’ve stumbled into a murder investigation here on the station. I’ve been asked to look into the matter. From what I’ve seen we’re dealing with someone with access to expensive, sophisticated weapons used primarily for clandestine assassination. The weapon used here was top quality and had to be stolen tech. I’m heading over to an area of the station that might shed some light on matters. Interested?”
“Let me get this straight Ramius – you stumbled upon a murder? And you want my help to solve it?”
“Yes.”
“Taverain, we are supposed to be hunting NeoDyne not solving crimes. Let the local authorities handle their own problems.”
“I have a feeling this is more than just a random killing Zane.”
There was a audible sigh over the channel. “The last time you said that we nearly ended up dead.”
“I was right wasn’t I?”
“Fine. Give me your position. I’ll beam over momentarily.”
“Oh and Zane, leave your uniform and put on something comfortable. You might wear something appropriate for obtaining religious enlightenment.”
“Come again?”
Ramius chuckled. “Meet me on Deck 27, Section 12 in twenty minutes. Ramius out.”
Closing the channel, Ramius headed off to change into something a little less conspicuous and to meet up with Captain Zane Akina, one of Starfleet Intelligence’s brightest, if not unorthodox, operatives. Tav had the feeling the next few hours would prove to be highly educational.