Destiny's Game (The Sampson Project)

By Robert Steacy

Destiny's Game (The Sampson Project)

Robert Carlton and his friend Scottie Benson continue their quest to expose Taylor-Fiennes Industries and their insidious plans to develop indestructible armies, used as impermeable forces against Eastern Europe. Robert’s scientific discoveries, carefully calibrated to bolster the human condition, have been corrupted by Dr. Gates within the walls of a cloaked research compound. With the help of newly formed, yet questionable alliances, Robert has but one opportunity to locate the testing center and take back what is rightfully his; a game of destiny that continues to elude him. Questions about who to trust will haunt their every move as Robert and Scottie find themselves closer to the truth and uncover who holds ultimate control of the ominous scheme.
The two friends encounter impossible surroundings and foreboding opponents that will change their world and everyone associated with Taylor-Fiennes. But at what cost will Robert continue his investigation, desperate to put an end to what seems impossible to stop. The delicate balance of world power could be altered by irresponsible methods to protect his identity and physical characteristics; a biological oddity to finalize preparations for ultimate synthesis. 
His search for Natalie will take on further confusion and diverted clues as to her possible whereabouts and tactical involvement. Will he ever learn the truth? Did she betray his trust or was she used as a pawn in a much larger plan to change the face of mankind?
The delicate balance of world power will continue to be in question as Robert searches for answers that seem to be slipping away; thrust into a world where little is as it seems. The ruthless drive to exploit his discoveries was the key component in The Sampson Project, but only the beginning of what is yet to come. 
Subversive interests of Jeremy Taylor and Colin Fiennes are revealed in their pursuit to develop super-humans for the Russian mafia and solidify their position within the New Order. The pathway of discovery is cloaked in deceit as Scottie helps guide Robert through the myriad of attacks and mistruth’s that sublimate efforts to find what he once took for granted and expose his enemies before all is lost. 
The variable interweave of intrigue and suspense will continue to drive Robert to the brink of having to choose between life or death… the question remains, who’s life and who’s death?

Destiny’s Game, the second installment of The Sampson Project, will catapult you to places untold. It continues the emotionally intense modern gothic mystery thriller about the quest for truth beyond perception; and the man who is determined to save his one true love and reclaim his life from those he once trusted.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Robert Steacy
• Release date: Jun 25, 2015
• ISBN: 9781513067452

Robert Steacy

Robert Steacy As a writer of fictional work, Robert Steacy has challenged himself to produce wildly fun adventures in an intelligent and picturesque manner. No matter the project, Robert utilizes his extensive skills as a creative communicator and analytical thinker to lead the reader though their own emotional discoveries. Robert has written artistic storylines as well as edited technical works for many publications including his own advertising and literary company.?Writing is a passion that he is compelled to do while working in varied genres. In addition to fiction novels, he is the author of poetry, short stories and film scripts, as he enjoys diversifying his talents through various writing experiences. Robert understands how incredibly important the nature of information is and the resultant inspiration that comes from a good story or well thought out project. He achieves his imagination from his many years traveling the world for work and sport, as well as his time coaching, mentoring and partnering through artistic expression.?? Robert has published many articles and ebooks throughout his professional life, including technical writing projects involving business plans, contracts and proposals, in addition to his many adventurous novels and comical short stories. Robert has also involved himself as an actor on stage and in films for much of his life. His acting experience has included the role of Drosselmeyer in San Jose Dance Theatre's Nutcracker, Lord Capulet in "Romeo and Juliet" and Dr. Coppelius in "Coppelia", as well as performing off-Broadway in "Mr. Male America" as Mr. California. Robert was also a guest "Leader of the Gang" Mouseketeer for TV's "Mickey Mouse Club". Since then, he studied stage and film performance extensively to hone acting skills. He has had appearances in various television shows such as "I Almost Got Away with it", and recent films such as "Moneyball". He is currently shooting and co-starring in an independent film "The First Day of Spring", scheduled to be released in 2015. Robert has always been inspired by the many great artists he has had the fortune to work with that allow him to push the boundaries of performance and literary achievement.

Book preview

Table of Contents

Synopsis

––––––––

Chapter I – The Intersect

Chapter II – Odessa

Chapter III – Threats from Within

Chapter IV – Redirection

Chapter V – Discovery

Chapter VI – Game of Deception

Chapter VII – Crossroads

Chapter VIII – Isolation

Chapter IX – Paradox

Destiny’s Game

The Sampson Project

Synopsis

Robert Carlton and his friend Scottie Benson continue their quest to expose Taylor-Fiennes Industries and their insidious plans to develop indestructible armies, used as impermeable forces against Eastern Europe. Robert’s scientific discoveries, carefully calibrated to bolster the human condition, have been corrupted by Dr. Gates within the walls of a cloaked research compound. With the help of newly formed, yet questionable alliances, Robert has but one opportunity to locate the testing center and take back what is rightfully his; a game of destiny that continues to elude him. Questions about who to trust will haunt their every move as Robert and Scottie find themselves closer to the truth and uncover who holds ultimate control of the ominous scheme.

The two friends encounter impossible surroundings and foreboding opponents that will change their world and everyone associated with Taylor-Fiennes. But at what cost will Robert continue his investigation, desperate to put an end to what seems impossible to stop. The delicate balance of world power could be altered by irresponsible methods to protect his identity and physical characteristics; a biological oddity to finalize preparations for ultimate synthesis.

His search for Natalie will take on further confusion and diverted clues as to her possible whereabouts and tactical involvement. Will he ever learn the truth? Did she betray his trust or was she used as a pawn in a much larger plan to change the face of mankind?

The delicate balance of world power will continue to be in question as Robert searches for answers that seem to be slipping away; thrust into a world where little is as it seems. The ruthless drive to exploit his discoveries was the key component in The Sampson Project, but only the beginning of what is yet to come.

Subversive interests of Jeremy Taylor and Colin Fiennes are revealed in their pursuit to develop super-humans for the Russian mafia and solidify their position within the New Order. The pathway of discovery is cloaked in deceit as Scottie helps guide Robert through the myriad of attacks and mistruth’s that sublimate efforts to find what he once took for granted and expose his enemies before all is lost.

The variable interweave of intrigue and suspense will continue to drive Robert to the brink of having to choose between life or death... the question remains, who’s life and who’s death?

Destiny’s Game, the second installment of The Sampson Project, will catapult you to places untold. It continues the emotionally intense modern gothic mystery thriller about the quest for truth beyond perception; and the man who is determined to save his one true love and reclaim his life from those he once trusted.

Destiny’s Game

*******************

Whoever undertakes to set himself up as a judge of Truth and Knowledge is shipwrecked by the laughter of God.

~ Albert Einstein

Admire those who smile through trouble, who gather strength from distress and grow brave by reflection. They whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves their conduct, will pursue their principles unto death.

~ Leonardo da Vinci

There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune. Omitted, all the voyage of their life is bound in shallows and in miseries. On such a full sea are we now afloat.

We must take the current when it serves, for it is not only in the stars to hold our destiny but in the venture of our soul.

~ William Shakespeare

-—Chapter I—-

The Intersect

Death was never an option, not that day, not any day. In recounting the attack on the 5th Brigade during the insurgence of February 1989, he was reminded of the operational plans in place that would launch more tanks and weaponry at the secluded enemy than was previously thought possible. The brave fighters held the southern hills for almost two days, scarcely budging with their defensive network and strong balance of rigidity and flexibility. The Peshawar Eight was skilled but no match for the military might that the Russian Special Forces used to subdue their enemies.

The 3rd Brigade was not as lucky. The Northwest terrain was less suited to defense, with a stronger more adept leadership, guiding fighters through several fragmented battles that took the lives of more men than they were accustomed to losing. The situation that developed over the forty-eight hour battle, proved to be the greatest test of Russian arms in the past decade. It was then that Sergeant Fiennes accrued his skills to save what was thought lost. It was also then that Captain Liam knew the time had come to bring the two rising military stars together to face the most challenging assaults the rebel fighters could muster.

Reinforcements began arriving on the third day of battle. They were ferocious in fighting procedure, plugging holes, blocking roads and rallying units that had almost broken under the desperate strain of fierce combat. But through the constant, he stood unyielding in his attempt to finish off what his unit had so violently started.

Each war knows many ironies, still, the survivors of those two brigades knew what they had done, and their officers could revel in the knowledge that among professional soldiers who know the measure of skill and courage that such a stand entails, their battle for Sar-e Pol would be remembered in great lore throughout the Russian Intelligence, Ukrainian led forces and military machination that poured through the life’s blood of both.

The small military jet carrying the man that he once knew as an intensely ferocious commander had recently become more of a political leader within the Ukrainian Army, reaching the status of General-Major. He was a man of great honor but always conducted himself as a Soviet commander first, then Russian patriot second, willing to do whatever was necessary to protect the integrity of the Kremlin and filter out all that would question such historical reverence.

Three officers and two military attaches made their way down the steps of the plane, followed by the one remaining individual he knew would stand behind the newly created fortress of human deliverance and political interchange. The plan was simple and that was how the he liked it. The General could be manipulated and handled in such a way that would allow access to all the proper political channels. That is why he joined forces, to facilitate the transition back to what was once a great and powerful nation, the Soviet Nation of the USSR.

Colonel Fiennes, it is very good to see you again.

But of course, the pleasure is all mine General Liam. I am happy that you saw your way clear to work with us. I take it your trip was without consequence.

No more than usual, he laughed. I see you brought your own small army to the airfield. Don’t you think that to be overkill for my arrival?

You can never be too careful these days. A generous escort is the only way I do business. You must know this by now.

I have grown accustomed to your show of physical force Colonel Fiennes, but will never quite understand your increasing paranoia. You were never one to shy away from a fight, no matter the circumstances. But now, all these guards and henchmen... so different. You were always more of a lone wolf Colonel. The once fiery unstoppable Sergeant willing to do anything to protect your comrades. Such new tactics you employ. Then again, these are new times I suppose.

Exactly General. New times indeed! I do appreciate your generous assessment of my days in the field, fighting for our joint efforts. And what were those words you spoke of me, ‘fiery’ and ‘lone wolf’? Such an enigmatic description of my younger days of past glory. You always did have such a descriptive knack when accounting for your men General. Always so dramatic with the names when recounting events.

Yes, well... please tell me, where do we stand with your new formulations? I have been alerted that there are set-backs.

Set-backs? My goodness no General. We have experienced the occasional bump in the road, if you will; but set-backs? No, that is quite incorrect. We are on schedule and will produce the first indestructible human fighting machines in a very short time, I assure you, explained the Colonel in his adroitly uncommon manner. I only hope that we still have the backing of the new encampment and your comrades from the old regime.

Nothing has happened to dissuade any of the seven. They are firm in their stance to protect the old ways and help introduce the New Order. But you must remember, you are charged with intimidation only, no act of force is necessary once Moscow sees what we have assembled. They will relinquish control without bloodshed. You do have the Sevskaya in place don’t you?

My dear General, but of course. They are ready to take possession of the QD-1 as soon as it is perfected. The face of our new regime will then be in place. Please do not worry about my end of things. You have nothing to worry about except what position you plan on taking in the new government reorganization.

I appreciate your confidence Colonel, but your posturing is disturbing to say the least. I fear you have more up your sleeve than you let on.

Why General, I never took you for a suspicious sort. What I do, I do for Russia, for the New Order.

That is what I am afraid of, your definition and meaning of the New Order.

Either way General, things always have a way of working themselves out, don’t you agree?

Just alert me when all preparations have been made to move forward.

As you wish my General.

You may have been made supreme commander of the compound and promoted to the officer grade of Colonel within the New Order, but I still out rank you in military command, I hope you remember that.

Now, now General. Let’s not allow our friendly discussion to take a bad turn. I have always considered your position within the military confines of our mission to be an important one, absolutely respected as it should be. You shall not have to worry about your station when it comes to our relationship.

I certainly hope so Colonel. Now, please let me know when your testing results are complete. We must move soon if we are to make a viable impact.

But of course General. You will be alerted well in advance.

Very good. Now, there is one last thing I feel we need to discuss.

Please, feel free General. How can I continue to make you feel at ease?

You have been reticent about bringing in the one man that could sway certain policies and help immensely with operations. I think it is time we incorporate his services.

From your brilliant descriptive analysis, I take it you are referring to our mutual friend and Ukrainian comrade, Yure Chapman.

That is correct.

I’m sorry to say that he is not in the position to be assimilated into this operation as of yet, and possibly never will be. That is why we had to be so careful with his daughter General, you must be aware of that fact? You of all people should know that Yure is too much of a patriot of current political leadership to, shall we say, rock the proverbial boat.

I understand your resistance Colonel, but you must remember my personal relationship and professional association with the man. He is considered as one of the most important military advisors that has ever served, as well as his many years within the scientific research community, if you have forgotten.

Of course I understand your position General, but Yure is a loose cannon at this point. And do I need to remind you that his daughter was manipulated to corral the young Carlton’s findings. It would just be too messy at this point. Feelings may be hurt my good commander, and I could almost picture a shiny new knife protruding from my spleen if he were briefed of our latest efforts. You know, the awful little untidiness we made there in California, and what we have done with her. I’m sorry to say, you are wrong in your assessment, no matter the strong bond you formed over the many years with our good friend.

I never agreed to use any force on the young man, nor did I agree to the violence infused regarding Yure’s daughter. You acted out of accord, and many of the other seven are still disappointed in your unilateral decision to move forward with that plan. You need to be very careful how you continue to handle that mess you and your partner Taylor have made.

My, my General, that almost appears to be a threat of sorts. I’m sure the other seven Generals on board would agree that everything has worked out just fine. Leverage is what we sought. That is what I have implanted. How we got there is not applicable. You and your other star leafed Generals only need to know that we are where we need to be.

I hope you’re correct Colonel. Otherwise, this operation could go sideways very quickly and all could be lost. We cannot allow that to happen.

Not to worry my esteemed colleague, I have everything covered. As I said, give me a little more time and my staff, headed by the incomparably talented Doctor Gates, will be in position for us to proceed without question.

I’ll be counting on it. I will await your call.

"Excellent General. I knew you would see the light. It will all happen as I... excuse me, as we have envisioned it. Assurances are in place. The New Order will be enacted and the world will bow to our actions."

**************************************

It should have been expected, Natasha thought. Things had gone too smoothly since the transition to Berkeley. Something felt wrong. It had been weeks since the last time they heard from her. Still, they were confident that she would be taken care of. They were always given assurances that her safety would never be compromised, no matter the circumstances of her work with Dr. Peter Gates. Yure would never allow for anything else.

They were told to stay quiet and allow Natalie to do her work within the confines of the California University. Her background and experience would be well utilized within the system, without notice or suspicion of any subversive activity. Natasha was never fond of her daughter working for Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service. Formed in 2005, she was wooed, then groomed by the FISU since she was seventeen years old. Always a brilliant student of the sciences, she was looked at as one of the few women capable to take on a high level of responsibility in the organization. But there was always talk of derisive factions forming from old Russian forces, infiltrating the inner mechanism of the infant union.

Too many unstable factors concerned her, especially considering earlier associations with Vladimir Putin and other dignitaries during her short time as special assistant to the office of the President. Russia was always looming as Ukraine’s big brother that would not let go. Threats and constant military buildup along the borders created national tension as the world began to take notice. But Yure’s associations and connections within both governments always quelled her fears that something would ever go wrong. The type of work Natalie was involved in seemed so innocuous since she was a scientist first and foremost. She must be in good hands in America, she thought, safe from anything that could harm her. To think anything else would be foolish.

Now that her future son-in-law was on his way to visit, she had to appear as a normal mother. She could not afford to alarm Robert or any of his associates, knowing that they were to be married