Blake Schwendiman's Blog and Blook

Chapter 4

Wednesday, 09 March 2022 – 7:15 p.m. IST

On the far north end of the Naidu corporate campus stood a small one-story building with no markings. Those who noticed it simply referred to it as building fifty-one. There was no obvious security around the structure, but Daniel knew that it was the most secure facility on the campus. Daniel had been key in the development of the facility. He had hoped it would become a larger part of the Naidu business, but it never had. Sireesha was too concerned that the work performed in that small building would be viewed as terrorist and could not risk allowing it to become prominent.

For Daniel, it was the only truly interesting facility on campus. There were few employees in building fifty-one, but Daniel knew them all personally. He had just received word that his latest project was finally complete. Few things in the world excited Daniel: bikes, redheads and guns, not necessarily in that order.

Daniel entered the building and made his way to the personal weapons area. He was met by Dr. Gustav Wendt.

“Morning, goose,” Daniel called.

“Daniel,” he winked as he replied. “I think you are going to like this one.”

Gustav whirled around in his chair and grabbed a grayish weapon from a locked cabinet. It looked almost like an ordinary pistol, but it was a bit wider. He handed the gun to Daniel.

“Feel how light it is,” he commented.

Daniel smiled.

“Pressed carbon and carbon fiber,” Gustav continued. “No metals whatsoever. You could walk through Heathrow with that.”

“Very good,” Daniel grinned. “And the ammunition?”

“There are three basic types,” Gustav said as he pulled open a box containing dozens of small projectiles of various colors. “Self-contained conductive energy darts,” he continued as he picked up a dark green casing. “Each dart delivers a two point five second charge. It will drop a man and leave him stunned for a few seconds. They’re non lethal ... usually.” His lips curled into a wicked smile as he handed the casing to Daniel. “I think you’ll like these the best.”

Gustav then picked up a gray casing. “These contain the carbon microdarts. At point-blank range the darts will penetrate clothing and skin effectively enough to deliver the genetic agents. They will not be effective at a distance.”

Gustav pulled out a black projectile and frowned. “Basically a carbon-slug bullet. Not very interesting, but probably the best choice for distance shooting.”

“Goose,” Daniel smiled as he turned the weapon over in his hands. “You have outdone yourself.”

Gustav smiled. “I do my best.”

“One of the few,” Daniel said as he turned back toward the doorway. Within moments he was racing quickly away from the campus. He had some work in Durban.