Investigation: The Corporate Wars, #1

By R Thomas McPherson

"I have seen the future. A shadow has fallen over the galaxy, evil has started to grow in its path and death will fall from the skies. Darkness will reign until the one has returned."

Prophecy from Mary the Talent.

Anteagen, the home world of the Wilson Corporation. Rick remembered the history lesson. This world was a new beginning for the Wilson corp. This was the first habitable planet that Jeb Wilson discovered. The Corporation had been roaming the galaxy for thirty years, after leaving earth. Once they found this planet, it was the promise land. A place to put down roots and expand the population.

There were areas of green fertile land with enough water on the planet to make a new start. In the beginning there was peace and plenty. Other worlds were found and colonized but none were as lovely as Anteagen. That is why The Wilson Corporate based their headquarters here.

The problem was that man brought his hostile nature with him. After three hundred years the grotesqueries of human nature started to show itself again. That's where Rick came in. Rick Thompson an investigator for the Wilson Corporation is set on a case that leads him though action and adventure.

• Language: English
• Publisher: New Atlantic Industries
• Release date: Nov 21, 2021
• ISBN: 9798201273415

Book preview

To the Reader

I dedicate this book to you.

Without you, it would never have been written.

Chapter 1 Defection

It was a dark and stormy night on Anteagan. The night was much like Rick Thompson’s mood.

Anteagan, the homeworld of the Wilson Corporation. Rick remembered the history lesson; this world was a new beginning for the Wilson Corps. This was the first habitable planet that Jeb Wilson discovered. After leaving Earth, the Corporation roamed the galaxy for thirty years. Once they found this planet, it was the promised land—a place to put down roots and expand the population.

There were areas of fertile green land with enough water on the planet to make a new start. In the beginning, there was peace and plenty. Other worlds were found and colonized, but none were as lovely as Anteagan. That is why The Wilson Corporate based its headquarters here.

The problem was that man brought his hostile nature with him. After three hundred years, the grotesqueries of human nature started to show themselves again. That's where Rick came in.

The lights were off in his apartment, so he could see the rain wash over the city. It only rained sometimes in this part of Anteagan, but Rick felt it appropriate. The planet was crying for the children.

The rain was washing the scum away from the city. Just as he had done this very morning. Rick wondered why high-level executives would commit crimes like child abduction, abuse, and murder.

The verdict was handed down today. Director Harris was found guilty, and Rick was glad he would pay for his crimes.

Still, he couldn’t help but feel bad for the victims. He knew that he shouldn’t get emotionally involved.

As an investigator for the Wilson Corporation, he ensured the victims got justice.

The problem was that if Rick prosecuted a high-level executive and were wrong, he would have to suffer the fate of the crime. It was part of the Spacing Corporations charter before they even left Earth. It was meant to keep the high-level executives from being inundated by frivolous lawsuits. As a result, any corporate executive crime was only sometimes investigated and was mostly ignored. Some executives believed they could do anything; some even got away with murder.

Not Harris, not today. Rick was more determined to discover who was responsible with every child found. When it led to one of the members of the Board of Directors for the Wilson Corporation, Rick felt fear, but his anger was more substantial. From the first broken body found in a dumpster, Rick promised himself that he would find whoever did this and make them pay for their crimes. He was willing to gamble with his life to ensure that the victims' families got justice.

Rick won that bet today. Rick was flooded with relief and anger as soon as the verdict was handed down.

He wanted to be by himself, so he could grieve for the children before he could leave the Justice Building today. The Director of the Legal Division approached him.

Director Hobbs. Hobbs offered him a position as The Lead Investigator for the Wilson Corporation.

The Wilson Corporation was a spacing corporation that spanned 14-star systems and governed 23 planets. It was the largest Corporation in the known galaxy.

Rick said yes at once but was now regretting that decision. He would be doing investigations at the highest levels. That meant more danger for him. Now whatever move he made, whatever investigation he followed, he would be under intense scrutiny.

It was not just knowing who committed the crime. It was a matter of being able to prove it without a doubt. The problem was that Rick was not the type of man that would break the law to get the criminals.

The legal system was not perfect, but a good man ran it. Director Hobbs wanted justice. He is a fair and honest man.

Rick’s first encounter with Hobbs was when he presented evidence to Hobbs about Harris; his only question was, Are you sure about this? Rick went over the evidence with Hobbs. After they were done, Hobbs said, I'll have the paperwork drawn up and the indictment made.

Rick was a minor investigator then. He was given the job because no one else would take it. Those with more rank and seniority dumped it on him because it was beneath their dignity. Later, when they found out it led to a member of the Board, they left it in Rick’s hands for fear that it could get them killed.

His integrity sustained him through the trial. As a result, he became known in very high circles as someone that would do what was right, no matter the cost.

Rick found that funny that a kid from the slums could be respected by the most powerful men on the planet.

Hobbs supported Rick through the entire process. Working together brought mutual admiration and respect. That’s why Hobbs offered Rick the job. Hobbs was the only person Rick had to answer to now.

Rick saw a flashing light in the window's reflection with the last thought. He turned to look at his desk and saw the comm unit flashing to get his attention. Who in the hell is calling me at this hour?

Rick moved to his desk. The caller ID showed that it was Hobbs. He decided that he wouldn’t get any sleep tonight anyway, so he might as well answer it.

He hit the button, and Hobbs appeared on the screen. Yes, Sir, what can I do for you?

I’m sorry to call you so late. Hell, it’s not even your first day yet, but I was hoping you could come down to the Legal Administration Building. We have a situation developing. I need someone I can trust.

What kind of situation do we have? Rick needed clarification. What could be so urgent? Why did anyone want to put him to work after the day he just had? He planned to take some time off to let his mind settle down after the trial.

Not over an open line. I know I’m throwing you into the fire without letting you get dressed, but I need you.

The urgent sound of Hobbs's voice let Rick know that this was important. Because of Rick's intense feeling of loyalty, he said, It will take me an hour to get there.

I'll see you then, said Hobbs, and the screen blanked out.

Rick grabbed his shirt and jacket and rushed out of his apartment. He put on his shirt while riding the lift to the parking lot on the roof. He didn't notice the old woman in the lift until she said, What, did he come home early?

Rick understood the implications but didn't want to explain himself. So instead, he smiled and said, Something like that. She just shook her head and got off at the next level.

Rick rode the lift, thinking that it moved too slowly. Once on the roof, he went to his car, got in, and said, Legal Administration Building, please. The vehicle lifted off the lot and jetted towards the destination.

Rick wondered what could be so crucial that Hobbs would call him out in the middle of the night. Why wasn't he called to the scene if it was a crime? There was nothing at the Legal Administration Building but paperwork and evidence. Most of the evidence was in holding, awaiting trial, or awaiting disposal. It must be important if Hobbs was out at this time of night.

He was starting to obsess over what it could be. Rick's mind wrapped in tight little circles during the forty-five-minute ride asking the same question. What was so important?

One of his co-workers said he was naturally obsessive, which was why he made such a good investigator. In this case, there were no details other than being called out in the middle of the night. This made his imagination run wild. There were many possibilities, each less likely than the one before.

His mind stopped when the car set down in front of the Legal Administration Building. It was time to find out what was going on.

Rick went in, but Hobbs joined him before he even got to the security desk and said, Come with me.

Rick followed Hobbs, and once the doors to the lift were closed, Hobbs started to tell him what was happening. Three hours ago, a defector from the Rossom Corporation came in and asked for political asylum. He has quite a story to tell. I think you should hear what he has to say.

A defector? What has that got to do with me?

The doors opened, Hobbs got out, and Rick followed in confusion. You'll understand once you hear his story. For right now, this is just between you and me. I want you to get the measure of the man and follow up on any leads he gives you. Hobbs opened the door to the interrogation rooms. He’s in room three.

Rick turned and started for that room, but Hobbs grabbed him by the shoulder and said, Remember, for right now, this is just between us.

Yes, Sir, said Rick, not even understanding what 'this' was. He went into room three. He automatically took note of the person's physical description in the room.

He was of medium build. Short brown hair with blue eyes. He had a pale skin tone, like a man who hardly spent any time in the sun. Rick guessed that he worked the night shift because the splotchy redness of his face suggested that he had been hidden from the light for years. While he wasn't standing, his arm length told Rick that he was about two meters tall or just under. His hands had no callouses, and the soft-formed body showed that this man was not used to hard labor.

Rick said, So, can you please tell me why I’m here?

Investigator Thompson, the man looked relieved at the sight of Rick. You are here because I asked for you.

And who are you?

The name is Bannic, Shane Bannic. He half rose out of his seat and stuck out his hand. When he noticed Rick would not take it, he sat back down. Well, this is disappointing.

Rick was in no mood for games. What is it you want? He didn’t care if Bannic was disappointed or not.

I want protection. If I'm not on the list now, I soon will be. Bannic looked away as if he was thinking about something. Rick was unsure about what that was, but he looked worried.

What list? What are you talking about? Rick fell into interrogation mode. He pushed a little to see if he could get the information needed.

I'll get to that in a moment. First, you need to give me your word that you will put me into protective custody. His soft voice sounded undisturbed, but the worried look remained.

Rick thought he might get the information if he played on Bannic’s fears. To protect you would cost a lot of money. How do I know if your life is worth the price paid?

Bannic smiled as if he had just won the argument. That list I mentioned was a hit list from the assassin's guild.

The hair on the back of Rick’s neck prickled. Just like it did every time he felt danger in the air. Who’s on that list?

Do we have a deal?

Rick realized that this was not an interrogation but a negotiation. I'll make you a counteroffer. If the names on that list are people of importance, you will have your protection.

Again, Bannic smiled. You got a deal. The first and foremost name on that list is Steve Collier. You know Director Collier. The Director in charge of Research and Technology.

Rick knew that when Collier's name was mentioned, Hobbs would send a security detail to protect him. It didn't matter if it was a hoax or not. The Wilson Corporation learned long ago not to disregard any death threats. Too many executives ended up dead because the dangers were not taken seriously.

What Rick needed to do now was to find out if the threat was real or not. So, tell me, how did you come by this information?

Well, I told you my name but not my title. I am the Under-Director of Finance and Economic Growth for the Rossom Corporation.

Rick needed to ensure Bannic knew he was in charge of this negotiation. I’m impressed, but not overly so. What has this got to do with you being in my interrogation room?

Well, in short, I'm a glorified bookkeeper. I saw some things that I shouldn't have. When I asked the Director about it, I was told to keep my nose out of his business. I just couldn't let it go, so I did some digging on my own. I got the answer I was looking for but also realized I had to get out of there. Knowing that Wilson was the target, I came here to exchange the information for my safety.

So far, all you have given me is one name. Give me the list and prove it's real, and I'll give you a new life.

Bannic reached up, pulled a button off his shirt, and set it on the table. You have a deal. That disk has all the information you need. You must understand I'm a bookkeeper. Meticulous attention to detail is what I do by my nature.

Rick reached over, picked up the disk, and then looked at Bannic for a reaction. You know we will have to verify this.

Take your time, but I wouldn’t take too much time if I were you. Some of the people on that list might have already met their fate.

Bannic looked like a man who had passed the burden onto another. It was almost a look of relief. Rick didn't want to seem overanxious as he slowly walked out.

He hurriedly went down the hall to the surveillance room and closed the door behind him. Rick knew that Hobbs would be watching the interview. He entered the room and saw Hobbs sitting behind the desk, watching the monitors. He came and stood behind him.

Hobbs looked over his shoulder and said, I’ve already sent a security unit to Collier’s house. He held out his hand as if to ask for the disk. Do you think he is telling the truth?

Rick dropped the disk in Hobbs's hand. Watching Bannic, he answered absently, Truth is for philosophers. I deal with facts. I'll know more when we check his facts. Still, I can tell you that he believes in what he is saying.

Not that I disagree with you, but why do you say that?

Because as I walked into the room, he looked worried. Once I made the deal, he already felt like we would protect him. So, he must believe the data is valid.

Right. Hobbs got up and started to head out the door as he said, I better get this to the boys in the tech lab.

Rick followed Hobbs out the door. Sir, I would like to join the security unit going to Collier’s house.

Why would you want to do that? said Hobbs.

Because perhaps I could see something others would miss.

If you think you could be of help, go. I'll have your vehicle unlocked for restricted destinations. Head for the Riverside sector. By the time you get there, you will be able to access Collier's house.

What about Bannic?

As they arrived at the lifts, Rick pushed the button down as Hobbs pushed the one to go up. Let him sit. We'll know what to do with him soon enough.

The lateness of the hour caused both lifts to arrive simultaneously. Good luck, said Hobbs as he stepped into the lift and was gone.

Rick didn't have a chance to respond. He got into the lift and headed down. He thought something wasn't right; still, he had to act on the information.

Rick got into his car and said, Riverside Sector, please.

Access denied. Riverside Sector is accessed by invitation only.

Then would you please take me to Green Sector? The vehicle lifted off and started heading in that direction without further comment.

The Riverside Sector is where the rich and elite live. The CEO and all members of the Board of Directors resided in Riverside, along with the CEO and Directors of most subsidiary companies that made up the Wilson Corporation.

The Green Sector was a short distance from Riverside, but security was not as tight. Mid and lower-level executives populated this sector. It was not shabby like the worker's sectors, but it was crowded. Lovely homes had just the land they sat on. Streets were just a few paces away from the front door. There was little to no crime, so there was no real reason for security.

Rick was not in flight for more than two minutes when he got a call from Hobbs. He put the earpiece on and Tapped the answer button. Yes, Sir.

I’m sending you the information on the disk, said Hobbs.

That was quick.

Yeah, it didn't have an encryption code or even a password.

I guess he wasn’t joking.

No, he wasn't. I've been able to sift through some of the data. At this point, I need to determine whether it is factual. However, I did get the list of targets. We are getting them all into custody now. It looks like Rossom is trying to take out our key tech research personnel.

Rick thought about that, That has a logic to it. We are rivals in many R and D projects. Can you tell me what they were working on so I can discover why these particular people were targeted?

That's classified. I don't even have access to that information. Hobbs seemed like he couldn't understand it, either.

What? You are on the Board of Directors. How is it that you don't have access? This made Rick's anxiety grow.

Because CEO Nash classified it. His eyes only. He didn't sound happy about it, but it was how the game was played.

So, I’m going into this situation blind. No reason and no support.

Yes, you are. Here is the thing, I didn’t just tell you that. If Collier tells you what he is working on ...

If Collier gave Rick the information, then no one could be blamed.