📋 INITIAL REPORT
Bureau command issued a priority assignment following delivery of a sealed dossier at headquarters. The matter concerns Argencorp and the reported disappearance of classified quantum computing hardware from West Coast operations. Primary site of record: the NeXstep research and fabrication campus in Redmond, Washington.
Supporting intelligence in the file notes a prior Argencorp acquisition of a compact auxiliary nuclear reactor, installed years earlier to supplement on-site power demand. Power draw versus public disclosure remains a Bureau interest line.
Due to prior Argencorp exposure (see related case file), Investigator 89 requested confirmation whether this facility employed autonomous building intelligence similar to the DC prototype. Director Katja confirmed: NeXstep does not use the same integrated AI building controller architecture; assessment focus remains physical security, inventory chain, and power budgeting.
CLIENT / SPONSOR: Bureau internal directive (high priority)
SUBJECT: Missing quantum components — quantity and classification partially redacted pending audit
SECONDARY FLAG: Auxiliary reactor procurement (historical)
TEAM: Investigators 07, 13, 42, 66, 89 — deployed commercial air to Seattle–Tacoma International
🛂 SITE ENTRY & SECURITY POSTURE
After ground transport to NeXstep, field team made contact with Marcus Hale, shift lead for site security. Facility policy mandates storage of personal weapons and consumer electronics in guard-station lockers before interior access.
Operational necessity required retention of concealed sidearms and one portable computing package. Team coordinated timing and cover so screening gaps allowed equipment to pass without facility log entry. [Methods withheld — field supplement CLASSIFIED]
"NeXstep runs clean-room and export-control rules. What you carry in is what we liability-test. No phones, no laptops, no firearms past the line—period."
🔍 ACCESS ESCALATION
Initial escort confined movement to visitor corridors. To widen investigative range, the team demonstrated familiarity with Argencorp safety and compartment protocols sufficient to satisfy Hale. After credential verification and on-site interview, Hale authorized elevated clearance including escorted entry to restricted research laboratories on level 3.
- Interior access: ACTIVE
- Level 3 restricted labs: GRANTED (escorted)
- Autonomous building AI at this site: NOT PRESENT (per command confirmation)
- Next actions: component audit trail, reactor tie-in review, interview roster expansion
⚠️ CURRENT STATUS
Theft scope, insider involvement, and connection to auxiliary power loads are unconfirmed. Investigation continues inside NeXstep.
⚠️ OPERATIONAL NOTICE ⚠️
Argencorp retains federal contractor status. Evidence handling and disclosure must follow Bureau–industry coordination rules.
📊 INVESTIGATION STATUS
THREAT LEVEL: MEDIUM (ESCALATION POSSIBLE)
NEXT UPDATE: Following level 3 lab sweep and inventory reconciliation
CLEARANCE REQUIRED: Level 3 — Contractor Site Authorization