The Martaci Papers

By James Vesping

Luka Martaci has found a revolutionary substance -- one that appears to be an advanced regeneration cell. But when he tries to find out the origins of it, he only finds more secrets. Will he be able to unlock the secrets of immortality, or will he fall victim to his own hubris?

• Language: English
• Publisher: James Vesping
• Release date: Jun 8, 2018
• ISBN: 9780463421291

James Vesping

James Vesping is a former network technician, having worked in both the private and the government sector. He has worked in software and web development in both professional and hobbyist capacities, including several simulation projects for popular sandbox games. In 2015, he began writing novels as a hobbyist, which turned into a full time job by 2017. You can find him on the web at JamesVesping.com.

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The Martaci Papers

by

James Vesping

Copyright 2018 James Vesping

Cover art Copyright 2018 James Vesping

All rights reserved.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, businesses, companies, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Looking in the Wrong Places

I believe I made myself clear, Dr. Martaci, Sera firmly said. This matter is not up for discussion. That lab equipment was to be destroyed; the mere fact that a part of it is in your possession means that someone has failed to complete their task.

Luka sighed and opened his hands. I'm not concerned about the equipment, Dr. Williston. I'm concerned about the trace element that was on it – a glowing yellow fluid that, on analysis, seems to have blood-like properties.

Sera folded her arms and shook her head. I know nothing about that, Doctor. The equipment was used in this lab and became contaminated; per our protocols and procedures, it was to be destroyed. Where did you acquire this equipment and who did you acquire it from?

Look, Doctor – Sera – can we just put this professional courtesy nonsense to rest? You know something and you're not telling me. Why?

Sera took her glasses off and set them aside, then sat down on a stool. She casually looked at the window outside, then back to Luka.

Luka, I'm going to state this very plainly, Sera whispered. Don't dig any deeper on this. You won't like what you might find. That equipment was destroyed because it was contaminated; the orders came from the Royal family itself.

Luka leaned back and rubbed his eyes. You're telling me now that it's a matter of not just state security, but Royal family security? Did they have some illegitimate child in the family? Is Princess Katerina messing around?

Sera gave Luka a cold stare. I know the Princess has a reputation as a wild young woman, but she's not of mind to 'mess around,' despite what rumors the Families might be spreading about her. I am rather surprised that you would believe such rumors and lies.

Then tell me what this yellow substance is. If it's a new cleansing agent, then we owe it to the world to research it more; I saw amazing potential in the small bit I was able to put under a microscope.

Sera narrowed her eyes. What did you see?

Luka raised an eyebrow. What do you mean? Haven't you seen it?

It's a simple question, Luka. What did you see of this yellow substance that intrigued you?

Luka casually rubbed his chin. Well, despite coagulation, the cells still seemed to be alive. They appeared to be repairing themselves somehow.

Do you still have the sample?

Luka looked up and nodded. Yes, I keep it locked in a refrigerator. Why?

Sera pointed a finger at Luka. "Destroy it at your earliest convenience, Luka. Do not dally – do