Dispatch from the Frontier of Medicine

February 15 - In transit. On approach to Deshima.

Captain Westminster's report arrived. As I have come to expect, it was detailed and comprehensive, covering her current assignment, information on cloning and providing details and images of her autopsy of the Colonel's clone. Important background information on a number of cases.

-----

To: Major Pepper Siamendes, UAP SIU

"My exposure to frontier medicine is full of surprises. The gentle nature of Doctor Danick was something I had never seen before, but all of her subjects are voluntary and require constant comforting and cajoling to elicit their cooperation. This is much different than the military, prison and experimental test subjects that I am accustomed to. I am not sure I am ready to put away my stungun, restraints and fast acting sedatives, but the mission is illuminating.

[Scanner, Hale's Moon]

"Doctor Danick keeps detailed records and more importantly she keeps blood samples and tissue samples. I have spoken to her about starting a blood bank for the locals. I have made casual conversations about the potential lifesaving value of taking tissue samples.

"Human have over two hundred and fifty different tissue types. Contrary to popular belief, DNA is not the sole determining factor in tissue typing. Each cell's DNA interacts with its environment which plays a large role in how an organism develops. This is why clones do not always look identical.

"For example, cloned female calico cats do not look like their mothers. The color and pattern of the coats of female calico cats are not solely determined by their genes. Random inactivation of the X chromosome in every cell of the female cat determines which coat color genes are switched off and which are switched on. The random distribution of X inactivation determines the appearance of the cat's coat.

[Stasis Chamber - Research Hospital, Albion City]

"Many biological phenomena are determined by random, interactive or other non-deterministic phenomenon. Which is why tissue samples are required. Simply having the DNA of the subject does not insure you can reproduce it's unique properties. Even tissue sampling is insufficient to reproduce certain special emergent phenomena such as readers.

"Hale's Moon is crawling with 'specials', I can see why Blue Sun keeps a presence there. I got a detailed full body scan of Cody Winterwolf and by luck alone I got one of his alleged sister Katherine. I will see if I can procure tissue samples at some point.

"There has been no further sightings of the Arudra drone. It seems an unlikely coincidence that the Arudra drone came to Hale just as their were having a warbot problem. Cybernetics is not my field, may I forward my few notes and observations to Doctor Qui? I am told that Doctor Qui is acquainted with some of the locals and even contributed hardware used in the failed drone program extraction from the Blue Sun synthetic cat.

[Clone in Stasis]

"The Aurotharius twins are more akin to savior siblings, which are harvested from the mother (surrogate or natural) while still in early embryonic stages. The tests are inconclusive as to what stage these embryos were harvested, but probably pre-fetus stage of development.

"There is too much commonality to think that they were grown from cells. These were probably developed thru a certain level of cell differentiation in the same mother.

"Said embryos are usually stored and implanted in a surrogate Savior siblings are often harvested for their stem cells or allowed to develop further to harvest replacement tissues. If complete replacement organs are required, they are allowed to develop to full term and birth like the rest of humanity, their organs are harvested later when they're needed.

[Preliminary Strip]

"Most savior siblings do not require such an exact DNA and tissue match that cloning is required, but there are extreme cases. Savior siblings that are brought to full term are usually kept in a form of stasis that allows their bodies to develop sufficiently before harvesting, but does not allow them to become conscious.

"It is peculiar that someone would raise a savior sibling as a child. There are stories of savior siblings being implanted into unsuspecting surrogates and raising them as their own children, just to be collected later when needed. It is curious to me why someone resort to such fraud when there are a lot of willing surrogates who will provide the service at a reasonable fee. The legality is not my field of expertise.

"The clone of the Colonel is very different than the Aurotharius twins. Comparing the telomere length of the Colonel to that of the clone indicates that it is based on a sample taken at least 8 years ago and probably not more than 15 years ago. The quantities of blastomeres and other cloning technology related residues indicate that the rapid growth and development processes were used.

[Cataloging]

"Cloning often has probabilistic organ defects in the heart, liver and several other organs which were present in this specimen. These defects would have been detectable at an early stage and not brought to term. This was a disposable specimen probably used for harvesting or an experiment of some sort. There is a high probability that the DNA is harvested from an ordinary tissue sample and not a germline sample. Germline DNA is much less prone to defects.

"The brain development and lesions indicate that headchip training programs were probably used instead of traditional learning. It was not well developed, adding to the disposable clone theory.

"There are many indications of tissue, glandular and even cellular harvesting of the specimen. So much so that it would not have been viable outside of life support for more than a few hours and probably only a day more even with any life support short of full biostasis.

[Heading for Storage]

"My theory is that this was an experimental specimen subjected to extreme harvesting for exploratory purposes, probably looking for certain results. It might have been a fast and dirty job, only harvesting one or two usable tissues, secretions or organelles per run. They also might be experimenting on a process and took samples to evaluate their progress."

Captain Westminster, UAP SIU

Insurance

Sept. 24 - Zenobia

Under my orders, I had the forged casket of St. Zenobius placed in the Parliamentary Auditorium of the public space station over Zenobia. Only now it is a replica designed for ceremonial functions. The existence of two caskets is now official.

If the test results from Bihar's Department of Antiquities should surface suggesting a "forgery", well then they obviously tested the replica by mistake. For all that anyone knows, the original is safely aboard the Antares in deep space.

I suspect that Ardra is keeping the original casket as insurance. There has been no whisper of it since the first samples were leaked onto the black market. Should anyone truly back her into a corner, she can turn around and use the casket as leverage to force assistance from either the Zenobian military or the trade faction.

I had a chat with the Colonel, to review the forensics from the clone body and to discuss aspects of the case.

-----

"Do we have an idea who made the clone from the forensics?" I asked.

"We know whose work it was based on, but not who actually made it," said the Colonel. "Mini Zebes provides the equipment. Mindo provided the know how. This is information we received from the forensics."

"Lily said Mindo like labs," I remarked.

"The Alliance has been stealing Mindo's research for years, but Mindo may or may not have made the clone. We are leaning towards no, but we are not sure."

I nodded.

The Colonel continued, "We think whoever made the clone is who is extorting Ardra into service. We are digging up new information on a group of transhumanists. They believe that some fusion of human and machine will be a transcendant experience 'Beyond Human'."

I was familiar with some of the concepts of transhumanism. I thought that Krenshar, the sentient replicant, might be considered post-human by that philosophy, and perhaps even idolized by its followers. It's always good to keep an eye on potential messiahs.

"We think that Ardra fell in with them after her burn notice. And now has buyer's remorse."

"Buyer's remorse?" I asked.

The Colonel continued, "She attempted a metamorphosis and was displeased with the results."

"Yes," I could imagine.

"A combination of narcotics, dna splicing and cybernetics...Her DNA is severely deviated from the human norm....degenerating chromosomal damage."

-----

Ardra.

I will have to track her down and do something no one quite expects.

I'm going to offer her a job.

Zenobia South

Sept. 2 - Zenobia South

Today I was recalled home to report to Colonel M_______ on a matter of great urgency.

I arrived at the Zenobia South Medical Centre landing my sleek black X-313 by the front entrance. Sgt. Damien Macalory was already on site and accompanied me inside.

Our boots echoed across the tile floor. The tube doors hissed as they opened. The elevator took us to the upper floor with a gentle hum. The Colonel waited in the laboratory in the rear of the building. The sergeant took his post at the door.

"Major."

"Colonel."

"What does this look like to you, Major?"

He indicated a globe-shape stasis tank. Inside floated a body curled up in a fetal position. The body was an exact copy of the Colonel. Same face. Same hair. Same lack of sense of humor, no doubt.

"This looks like a stasis tube of some sort," I said.

"Yes. I was probably referring to the contents," he replied dryly.

I continued,"...and from the readings on the screen the subject is healthy."

"The subject is artificially resuscitated. A corrupted clone."

"It looks another plus for Zenobian Medical Engineers," I remarked.

"Except that it was found in the Blackburne Wastelands."

I raised an eyebrow.

He continued, "Riddled full with bullets and arrows."

This is bad I thought. "I assume this is your backup clone... for organ replacement."

"It's cellular organelles have been stripped. It is capable of supporting its own life without this machine."

"This clone was autonomous?" I asked.

"For a while at least. The weapons in its possession had been discharged. We found a laboratory nearby that had been ransacked."

My instincts kicked in. "Can it be restored and perhaps questioned?"

"Negative."

"Then forensics."

"Its neural pathways are degraded below even regulating autonomous functions. Forensics succeeded."

"Have the bullets been sent to my lab?"

"I will send you a sample. There were many to choose from. You might also want to look at the arrows."

"Indeed."

"But one matter is of another interest."

Uh oh, I thought. "Yes?"

"Are you familiar with blastomeres?"

"I have heard the term."

"They are typically used in organ replacement."

"There was a shipment on the Persephone." I was referring to the derelict ship not the colony.

"But they can also be used for the accelerated growth of clones. Highly illegal. Both on Zenobia and in the Alliance in general."

"Unless under control experimental conditions of course," I added.

"Have you cross referenced the manifests and inventory records from the Angel of Mercy? The amount of blastomeres in their stock is orders of magnitude greater than that corresponding to the organ replacements. This clone was awash with them. Same tissue type."

"That is troubling." That was troubling on so many levels. Clearly I needed to examine the staff files and shipping records from that facility. Maybe even another trip to the Persephone to collect samples.

The Colonel started with his orders. "I want you to hook up with ___________. If Blue Sun is true to form, they have illegal security cameras in Hale's Moon."

"No doubt."

"Have a man tap into their security cameras. Then serve a weapons search warrant on the Sheriff and his deputies. Lets see where they run."

I stopped him there. I had an active investigation on Hale's and I didn't want the sheriff pressured. I gave him my report on the Angel of Mercy bombing and how the markings on the transport ship matched the logo of the Dharma Initiative.

"I have begun to look into this charity," I explained.

"Excellent. You can only take so long, then you should consider taking sniffer dogs to Hale's"

"I usually work alone as you know. It is my prerogative."

"You only get to work alone as long as you continue to produce results."

I examined the clone in the tube, "Oh, I'll get results..." I tapped my finger to my lips.

There was a moment of silence. The clone floated in the thick fluid of the stasis tube. The monitors beeped and chirped cheerfully.

"You notice a resemblance?" asked the Colonel.

"Indeed."

"Very disturbing."

"Yes," I agreed. "You should be concerned."

The Colonel grumbled, "The sonofabitch even had better boots and weapons than I do. This is not being financed by amateurs."

"I suggest you get a microchip implant, as a method of security."

The Colonel did not acknowledge the idea. Instead, he introduced new business. "Ship traffic out of ________ has increased markedly. We thought that place finally gave up the ghost. A lot of traffic between there and Hale's." He named a settlement known for operating outside the law.

A pause, then the Colonel asked, "Are you going to continue to be subtle?"

Subtle? Did he say just subtle like there is something wrong with my methods? A trapdoor spider is subtle but she gets the job done. Fine, I thought, you want a show of force. I'll give you force.

"I recommend sending a pacification team to ________."

"I can get that authorized."

"Hale's requires a softer touch. Trade Association is strong there."

"I will get you a 'round up the usual suspects' warrant for _____________."

"Thank you," I said with some finality.

"Who is your escort today?"

"Sergeant... please come in," I called again looking closely at the clone in the tank.

"Sir," said Macalroy crisply.

Colonel M________ looked over the sergeant. I turned and introduced the trooper.

"This is Sergeant Macalroy."

"You have worked with the Major before?" asked the Colonel.

"On several projects. He can be trusted to do his duty to the letter," I answered for him.

"Good. Have him lead the team to ____________."

"Sir," added the Sergeant, "I've recently been transferred from off world expeditionary forces to Zenobian detatchment. I've served with the Major on previous assignments."

"Do you have anyone undercover that can scout out targets?"

"I do," I said. I sent a summons on my comm.

"Make a list of soft targets, put their names on a warrant."

"Sir, if I may?" asked Macalroy.

"Speak freely."

"Word has it ____________ is where a bunch of rebels from that business on Shadow have gone to ground. Browncoats all. Might be as good a place to start as any."

"A bonus. Any named browncoat you can take into custody increases the amount of resources I can put to the project."

My comm beeped softly. I interrupted, "My undercover operative will join us presently. She works at this facility. I will get her."

-----

When I returned with my agent, I could hear that the Colonel and the Sergeant were busy with their male bonding.

The Colonel's voice: "The Alliance relies heavily on private security companies. In my opinion, they are mostly a disappointment."

The Sergeant snorted, "I agree sir, no replacement for professional soldiers."

"We will resume this conversation later."

"Colonel..."

"Major..."

"May I present Dr. S________"

My agent greeted the men with her charming voice, "Lovely to meet you gentleman." She was brilliant and devious. She was perfect for the task at hand.

"Dr. S_______ has excellent knowledge of Hale's Moon," I added.

"Excellent. What is the nature of your dealings there?"

"Ms. S. ________ is familiar with key personnel on that Moon including persons who have relocated to _______. She is an excellent choice for uncovering the source and nature of the increased traffic between the two colonies," I explained.

"I agree. Have her assist the Sergeant here with a list. Major, you oversee the project."

"One in particular." He gave me a name. "He has been networking traders to ___________. Shake him down. I will leave it to your discretion, Major, what tactics to employ."

He continued, "The Alliance has always been lax about deploying assets in the Rim. If we get results, we can get more resources. Make good on this."

The doctor excused herself while we concluded our business.

"Major, Sergeant, if you need any special requisitions, have it to me in the next 24 hours."

"Very good," I told him what I needed immediately, "I would like the ballistic report on the arrows and toxicology of course. I will also need a list of the executive of this registered charity 'Dharma Initiative'. Whenever I ask, people shut up, a clear indication I should keep digging."

"I will get it for you. I can give you one name to look for." He gave me a name. "Retired General. Operates in the Rim...and he is connected to Dharma. He would have answers you need, but probably won't give you anything. Find out who his associates are."

I summarized our action plan, detailing the respective tasks of my team.

The Colonel added, "I am going to give you some room to operate on Hale. I am hoping you have an operation with boots on the ground in _________ soon."

I replied, "I will see that the Sergeant has the resources he needs. I have a mobile weapons platform that requires field testing."

"Excellent," said the Colonel. "Carry on. Dismissed."

I turned and, with Macalroy, left Colonel M___________ to whatever thoughts you have in the presence of your dead clone.