Refractions of Frozen Time

Integrator Central

# # #  INCIDENT REPORT  # # #

TEAM: Communications

PROJECT:  Encephalographic Access/Reception

DATE:  DDW-125

INVESTIGATOR:  Rohlnach

INJURIES: 16      FATALITIES: 14/16

SCHEDULE IMPACT: Yes   DAYS: +10

SUMMARY:  Attempts to refine reception to word chain level based on mindprint specific remote stimulation model has resulted in cessation of brain activity (brain death) in several test subjects.  Cause currently believed to be related to excessive amplitude of stimulating frequency.  The two survivors remain in a catatonic state.

* * *

Integrated Territorial Tower

Cira City

Troy could tell by Spoigan’s expression that he thought the information on the latest Incident Report was unfortunate.  He and his superior had this ongoing argument related to dealing with dissenters.  Spoigan hoped to use mind control methods to win them over or, at the least, neutralize them from pushing the issue, while Troy felt eliminating such individuals would be more effective in the long run. He had no patience for those who disagreed with him or his ideologies, preferring to spend resources on weapons research as opposed to psychological mumbo-jumbo.

“This could come in handy for executions,” he ventured.  “It would save the cost of hunting down enemies to our cause and even allow their disposal in a covert manner which wouldn’t be easily traced to INTEGRATOR sources.”

Spoigan’s apparent concern at the unfortunate accident quickly escalated to resolute determination to the contrary as demonstrated by squared shoulders and the usual sharply truncated snort.

“Absolutely not,” he growled.  “I don’t know why you have such difficulty recognizing the importance of citizen resources.  This technology has the potential to change their mindset to whatever we want.  This is all about people, Troy!  Can’t you see that?  What good will it do if we win by indiscriminately killing off all opposition?  I agree that some must be eliminated, like your buddy, Brightstar, but certainly not the masses. People are resources.  They work.  They produce.”

“What if they can’t be convinced?  Then what?  Then the masses you’re so fond of will rebel and cause all sorts of disturbances which will distract us from larger acquisitions, both in time and resources.”

Spoigan’s glare bore through him yet Troy didn’t flinch, having become accustomed to his superior’s intimidation tactics.  “You’re out of order, Troy,” he snarled.

“I thought the point of having a deputy was to present other views,” he retorted without apology.

“Point taken,” the man replied, glare diminishing ever so slightly.  “But our disagreements must remain within the confines of this office, is that clear?  Otherwise you may be the one meeting with an unfortunate accident.”

Troy winced, having failed to consider the possibility that he could become such a target.

“Yes, sir,” he replied evenly.  “I’ll keep that in mind.  By the way, did you see the report from the team that raided the cavern where the Brightstars were holed up over High Opps?”

Spoigan’s expression shifted slowly from annoyance to pensive to curious.  “No.  What about it?”

Troy stifled a smile, satisfied to be one up on his superior yet again.  “Two troopers reported an interesting incident whereby the people occupying the cave escaped.”

“Hmmmph,” Spoigan grunted.  “Probably some wild tale to explain their incompetence.”

“Maybe,” Troy said evenly.  “But it’s interesting if true.”

“All right, Troy.  What happened?”

“The troops involved have favorable records and appear trustworthy.  Both claim in identical stories that a small group including at least one child, a ‘troid and two female adults teleported from a cylindrical chamber lined with cristobalite using some strange, primitive looking device.”

Spoigan straightened with interest.  “Indeed.  That’s definitely interesting to say the least.  Are researchers following up on it?”

“Of course.”

“Good.  Keep me posted.”

Troy smiled.  “I will.”