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Added Athena & Eisen quotes
Changed line(s) 44,47 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:B.J. Blazkowicz]]
-> ''"From incident report, Camp Bullis, San Antonio, Texas, May 1935.\\
Details: S. Sgt. Pickens observed Pvt. Blazkowicz fighting four other soldiers in the barracks. On arrival, Pickens saw that two of the privates had been rendered unconscious, and the other two—one armed with a lead pipe—had backed away. Fighting ceased on the S. Sgt.'s entry.\\
Recommendations: Though S. Sgt. Pickens ordered all parties to the brig, we recommend Blazkowicz be evaluated for special services. Not only did he confront four men who had been assaulting another soldier, but did so with skill that bears closer scrutiny."''
-> ''"From incident report, Camp Bullis, San Antonio, Texas, May 1935.\\
Details: S. Sgt. Pickens observed Pvt. Blazkowicz fighting four other soldiers in the barracks. On arrival, Pickens saw that two of the privates had been rendered unconscious, and the other two—one armed with a lead pipe—had backed away. Fighting ceased on the S. Sgt.'s entry.\\
Recommendations: Though S. Sgt. Pickens ordered all parties to the brig, we recommend Blazkowicz be evaluated for special services. Not only did he confront four men who had been assaulting another soldier, but did so with skill that bears closer scrutiny."''
to:
-> ''"From incident report, Camp Bullis, San Antonio, Texas, May 1935.\\
Details: S. Sgt. Pickens observed Pvt. Blazkowicz fighting four other soldiers in the barracks. On arrival, Pickens saw that two of the privates had been rendered unconscious,
->“TCM Central Command to Command Staff, TCS Ogoun and
Recommendations: Though S. Sgt. Pickens ordered all parties
Changed line(s) 50,51 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From classified training summary, William J. Blazkowicz.\\
Blazkowicz has completed all requirements for full agent status within the Office of Secret Actions. Though his effectiveness with weapons and combat are beyond criticism, we are concerned that his self-reliance could lead to him pursuing unauthorized objectives. Additionally, his morals could present a problem should his commanding officer require him to undertake any mission that falls in an ethical gray area. That said, he is hereby approved to receive the classified dossiers detailing the Germans' weapon technology plans as well as those regarding their supernatural/occult initiatives."''
Blazkowicz has completed all requirements for full agent status within the Office of Secret Actions. Though his effectiveness with weapons and combat are beyond criticism, we are concerned that his self-reliance could lead to him pursuing unauthorized objectives. Additionally, his morals could present a problem should his commanding officer require him to undertake any mission that falls in an ethical gray area. That said, he is hereby approved to receive the classified dossiers detailing the Germans' weapon technology plans as well as those regarding their supernatural/occult initiatives."''
to:
Blazkowicz has completed
Changed line(s) 54,61 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From transcript, mission briefing, October 1944:\\
Inspector: You have reviewed the documents?\\
Blazkowicz: Yes sir. I read them, but I can't say I understand them. Can I ask some questions?\\
Inspector: Of course.\\
Blazkowicz (standing): We don't know how close the Germans are to having this bomb, or the VTOL, right?\\
Inspector: That is correct.\\
Blazkowicz: And from the intel, your scientists think they're trying to access “extradimensional space”? I don't mean to seem doubtful, sir, but I'm having a hard time getting my head around it. They think this supernatural stuff could be real?\\
Inspector: That is ... correct."''
Inspector: You have reviewed the documents?\\
Blazkowicz: Yes sir. I read them, but I can't say I understand them. Can I ask some questions?\\
Inspector: Of course.\\
Blazkowicz (standing): We don't know how close the Germans are to having this bomb, or the VTOL, right?\\
Inspector: That is correct.\\
Blazkowicz: And from the intel, your scientists think they're trying to access “extradimensional space”? I don't mean to seem doubtful, sir, but I'm having a hard time getting my head around it. They think this supernatural stuff could be real?\\
Inspector: That is ... correct."''
to:
Inspector: You have reviewed
Blazkowicz: Yes sir. I read them,
Inspector: Of course.\\
Blazkowicz (standing): We don't know how close
Inspector: That
Blazkowicz: And from the intel, your scientists think they're trying to access “extradimensional space”?
Inspector: That is ... correct."''
Changed line(s) 64,65 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From mission summary, November 1944:\\
During his mission to recover VTOL plans, Cpt. Blazkowicz uncovered Colonel Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse's more dire goal. Deathshead constructed a device aboard his zeppelin to create a portal to the so-called “Black Sun Dimension” —a power source with far more destructive potential than the atomic bomb. Blazkowicz pursued Deathshead into this portal. A short time later, something destroyed the zeppelin from within, and it crash-landed into Isenstadt Castle. Blazkowicz escaped and is en route to OSA HQ, but more importantly, we recommend that research begin immediately on this “Black Sun” phenomenon."''
During his mission to recover VTOL plans, Cpt. Blazkowicz uncovered Colonel Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse's more dire goal. Deathshead constructed a device aboard his zeppelin to create a portal to the so-called “Black Sun Dimension” —a power source with far more destructive potential than the atomic bomb. Blazkowicz pursued Deathshead into this portal. A short time later, something destroyed the zeppelin from within, and it crash-landed into Isenstadt Castle. Blazkowicz escaped and is en route to OSA HQ, but more importantly, we recommend that research begin immediately on this “Black Sun” phenomenon."''
to:
During his mission to recover VTOL plans, Cpt. Blazkowicz uncovered Colonel Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse's more dire goal. Deathshead constructed a device aboard his zeppelin to create a portal to the so-called “Black Sun Dimension” —a power source with far more destructive potential than the atomic bomb. Blazkowicz pursued Deathshead into
Changed line(s) 68,71 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From memo to OSA Director Joseph D. Hassett, July 1946:\\
I regret to report that Cpt. Blazkowicz is MIA, presumed deceased. His squadron came under fire, but he survived and attempted to infiltrate Deathshead's facility. That was the last we heard. No Allied dead were recovered.\\
\\
Director, this mission was our last hope. With its failure the Germans are poised to conquer the globe. My team continues to look for ways to stop them, but we believe the window of opportunity has closed. I'm sorry, sir. We have a report for the President ready for your review."''
I regret to report that Cpt. Blazkowicz is MIA, presumed deceased. His squadron came under fire, but he survived and attempted to infiltrate Deathshead's facility. That was the last we heard. No Allied dead were recovered.\\
\\
Director, this mission was our last hope. With its failure the Germans are poised to conquer the globe. My team continues to look for ways to stop them, but we believe the window of opportunity has closed. I'm sorry, sir. We have a report for the President ready for your review."''
to:
I regret to report
\\
Director, this mission was our last hope. With its failure the Germans are poised to conquer the globe. My team continues to look for ways to stop them, but we believe the window of opportunity has closed. I'm sorry, sir. We have a report for the President ready for your review."''
Changed line(s) 74,75 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From the journal of Dr. Krzysztof Oliwa, Zakład Psychiatryczny Maławieś:\\
The man was transferred to the asylum from the hospital where he was taken by the fisherman who found him. The subject's wounds were immense; he was already minimally conscious when found. On examination, I concluded his state was permanent. I was ready to hand him over to the relentless German 'hospital' squad—better him than one of our conscious patients, I reasoned—but my young daughter Anya convinced me not to. She would care for him. I indulged her hope. How could I not?"''
The man was transferred to the asylum from the hospital where he was taken by the fisherman who found him. The subject's wounds were immense; he was already minimally conscious when found. On examination, I concluded his state was permanent. I was ready to hand him over to the relentless German 'hospital' squad—better him than one of our conscious patients, I reasoned—but my young daughter Anya convinced me not to. She would care for him. I indulged her hope. How could I not?"''
to:
The man was transferred
Changed line(s) 78,79 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From Anya Oliwa's statement, prepared for Caroline Becker:\\
Fourteen years. That's how long. His body healed but he remained unresponsive. My father became ill, but still he tended to those who the Germans would discard, while this man hung on—until the day Deathshead's squad raided the hospital, intending to kill every last patient. It was hopeless. When my parents resisted, they murdered them in cold blood. But as they dragged me away, I heard a struggle. It was William! As though the gunfire had shattered his catatonia. And the rest—well, you know what happened to Keller and his thugs."''
Fourteen years. That's how long. His body healed but he remained unresponsive. My father became ill, but still he tended to those who the Germans would discard, while this man hung on—until the day Deathshead's squad raided the hospital, intending to kill every last patient. It was hopeless. When my parents resisted, they murdered them in cold blood. But as they dragged me away, I heard a struggle. It was William! As though the gunfire had shattered his catatonia. And the rest—well, you know what happened to Keller and his thugs."''
to:
Fourteen years. That's how long. His body healed but he remained unresponsive. My father became ill, but still he tended
Changed line(s) 82,88 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From transcript, final mission briefing:\\
CB: Blazkowicz, the Kreisau Circle is more than one person. We're a long way from Isenstadt.\\
BJ: Understood. But the plans for this fortress, Caroline—so many holes, blank spaces. Can we use the Dach—uh ...\\
CB: Da'at Yichud. Yes. The Spindly Torque will get you in. But after that it is up to you.\\
BJ: So we use this kraut U-boat to bust in. After that, I'll have only this partial map?\\
CB: And your own formidable survival skills.\\
BJ: Could be a suicide mission. But I've been dead before. Count me in."''
CB: Blazkowicz, the Kreisau Circle is more than one person. We're a long way from Isenstadt.\\
BJ: Understood. But the plans for this fortress, Caroline—so many holes, blank spaces. Can we use the Dach—uh ...\\
CB: Da'at Yichud. Yes. The Spindly Torque will get you in. But after that it is up to you.\\
BJ: So we use this kraut U-boat to bust in. After that, I'll have only this partial map?\\
CB: And your own formidable survival skills.\\
BJ: Could be a suicide mission. But I've been dead before. Count me in."''
to:
CB: Blazkowicz,
BJ: Understood. But the plans for
CB: Da'at Yichud. Yes. The Spindly Torque will get you in. But after that it is up to you.\\
BJ: So we use this kraut U-boat to bust in. After that, I'll have only this partial map?\\
CB: And your own formidable survival skills.\\
BJ: Could be a suicide mission. But I've been dead before. Count me in."''
Changed line(s) 91,92 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From mission summary by Caroline Becker, February 1961:\\
Watching events unfold from the periscope of the Eva's Hammer, Bombate reported observing an explosion atop the compound's main roof. He saw what he believed to be the remains of Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse near a destroyed mechanical construct. A figure dragging himself away from the site was also visible. As I was returning to the Eva's Hammer with the survivors, Blazkowicz reestablished radio contact and gave the all clear to fire the nuclear cannon. This is the point at which we decided to take action."''
Watching events unfold from the periscope of the Eva's Hammer, Bombate reported observing an explosion atop the compound's main roof. He saw what he believed to be the remains of Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse near a destroyed mechanical construct. A figure dragging himself away from the site was also visible. As I was returning to the Eva's Hammer with the survivors, Blazkowicz reestablished radio contact and gave the all clear to fire the nuclear cannon. This is the point at which we decided to take action."''
to:
Watching events unfold
Changed line(s) 95 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A mysterious Da'at Yichud dodecagon B.J. recovered from a secret vault within deep-sea trench. The Da'at Yichud was an ancient, mystical society whose inventions are so advanced that their working aren't fully understood to this day."''
to:
-> ''"A mysterious Da'at Yichud dodecagon B.J. recovered A flag from a secret vault within deep-sea trench. The Da'at Yichud was an ancient, mystical society whose inventions are so advanced that their working aren't fully understood to this day."''GDF Academy training exercise—the last one her sister Laney completed before washing out.
Changed line(s) 99,104 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Clutch]]
-> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 54.40/Cycle 17,848\\
Communication lost with Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I subsequent to partial collapse of tunnel designated 14C. Mission Commander T. Galvez and Artificial Neural Network MD: Master Control have declared situational emergency. Overseer A. Terada has arrived from Corporate to investigate recent on-site accidents; all units to give her command priority above T. Galvez during recovery operation.\\
\\
Overseer A. Terada has ordered AMU MD: C17-U reactivated and repurposed with rendering tunnel 14C passable and commencing search for missing organic and technological units."''
-> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 54.40/Cycle 17,848\\
Communication lost with Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I subsequent to partial collapse of tunnel designated 14C. Mission Commander T. Galvez and Artificial Neural Network MD: Master Control have declared situational emergency. Overseer A. Terada has arrived from Corporate to investigate recent on-site accidents; all units to give her command priority above T. Galvez during recovery operation.\\
\\
Overseer A. Terada has ordered AMU MD: C17-U reactivated and repurposed with rendering tunnel 14C passable and commencing search for missing organic and technological units."''
to:
->
Ongoing
Communication lost with Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I subsequent to partial collapse of tunnel designated 14C. Mission Commander T. Galvez and Artificial Neural Network MD: Master Control have declared situational emergency. Overseer A. Terada has arrived from Corporate to investigate recent on-site accidents; all units to give her command priority above T. Galvez during recovery operation.
Details: S. Sgt. Pickens observed Pvt. Blazkowicz fighting four other soldiers in the barracks. On arrival, Pickens saw that two of the privates had been rendered unconscious, and the other two—one armed with a lead pipe—had backed away. Fighting ceased on the S. Sgt.'s entry.\\
Changed line(s) 107,109 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I located. Behavior of both units violent and irrational, despite lack of observable injuries or damage. This unit was required to activate defensive shielding and initiate pursuit-and-evasion subroutines. While effecting evasion, this unit located a previously undetected secondary cavern complex. Posit: exposed by the same geological event that damaged tunnel 14C. As travel back to central command is currently not recommended due to continued presence of hostiles, this unit is engaging all sensor and scanner subroutines as directed by primary mission protocols."''
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I located. Behavior of both units violent and irrational, despite lack of observable injuries or damage. This unit was required to activate defensive shielding and initiate pursuit-and-evasion subroutines. While effecting evasion, this unit located a previously undetected secondary cavern complex. Posit: exposed by the same geological event that damaged tunnel 14C. As travel back to central command is currently not recommended due to continued presence of hostiles, this unit is engaging all sensor and scanner subroutines as directed by primary mission protocols."''
to:
-> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne''"From classified training summary, William J. Blazkowicz.\\
Blazkowicz has completed all requirements for full agent status within the Office of Secret Actions. Though his effectiveness with weapons andAMU MD: C03-I located. Behavior of both units violent and irrational, despite lack of observable injuries or damage. This unit was required to activate defensive shielding and initiate pursuit-and-evasion subroutines. While effecting evasion, this unit located a previously undetected secondary cavern complex. Posit: exposed by the same geological event combat are beyond criticism, we are concerned that damaged tunnel 14C. As travel back his self-reliance could lead to central command is currently not recommended due him pursuing unauthorized objectives. Additionally, his morals could present a problem should his commanding officer require him to continued presence of hostiles, this unit is engaging all sensor and scanner subroutines as directed by primary undertake any mission protocols.that falls in an ethical gray area. That said, he is hereby approved to receive the classified dossiers detailing the Germans' weapon technology plans as well as those regarding their supernatural/occult initiatives."''
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne
Blazkowicz has completed all requirements for full agent status within the Office of Secret Actions. Though his effectiveness with weapons and
Changed line(s) 112,114 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Auton ... ining Unit, Miss ... gnation: C17 ... ological)\\
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...\\
Partial failu ... mmunications. Possib ... ailure in sensor an ... ner array. Cavern appear ... ntain spires and tower ... artificial origin, correspond ... no known architectural schem ... recise measurem ... impossible due ... uncategorized error. Structures ap ... hover abov ... floor despite lack ... physical support or rec ... energy emissions. Patterns ... structure's surface ... spond to no known linguistic ... nd follow no ... geometric schema. This unit ... return to centr... and deliver ... for analys ..."''
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...\\
Partial failu ... mmunications. Possib ... ailure in sensor an ... ner array. Cavern appear ... ntain spires and tower ... artificial origin, correspond ... no known architectural schem ... recise measurem ... impossible due ... uncategorized error. Structures ap ... hover abov ... floor despite lack ... physical support or rec ... energy emissions. Patterns ... structure's surface ... spond to no known linguistic ... nd follow no ... geometric schema. This unit ... return to centr... and deliver ... for analys ..."''
to:
-> ''"Auton ... ining Unit, Miss ... gnation: C17 ... ological)\\
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...''"From transcript, mission briefing, October 1944:\\
Inspector: You have reviewed the documents?\\
Blazkowicz: Yes sir. I read them, but I can't say I understand them. Can I ask some questions?\\
Inspector: Of course.\\
Partial failu ... mmunications. Possib ... ailure in sensor an ... ner array. Cavern appear ... ntain spires and tower ... artificial origin, correspond ... no known architectural schem ... recise measurem ... impossible due ... uncategorized error. Structures ap ... hover abov ... floor despite lack ... physical support Blazkowicz (standing): We don't know how close the Germans are to having this bomb, or rec ... energy emissions. Patterns ... structure's surface ... spond the VTOL, right?\\
Inspector: That is correct.\\
Blazkowicz: And from the intel, your scientists think they're trying tono known linguistic ... nd follow no ... geometric schema. This unit ... return access “extradimensional space”? I don't mean to centr... and deliver ... for analys ...seem doubtful, sir, but I'm having a hard time getting my head around it. They think this supernatural stuff could be real?\\
Inspector: That is ... correct."''
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...
Inspector: You have reviewed the documents?\\
Blazkowicz: Yes sir. I read them, but I can't say I understand them. Can I ask some questions?\\
Inspector: Of course.\\
Inspector: That is correct.\\
Blazkowicz: And from the intel, your scientists think they're trying to
Inspector: That is ... correct."''
Changed line(s) 117,136 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Command log, sub-AI root system, Artificial Neural Network, Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does not wish it.\\
reboot initialized"''
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does not wish it.\\
reboot initialized"''
to:
-> ''"Command log, sub-AI root system, Artificial Neural Network, Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does not wish it.\\
reboot initialized"''''"From mission summary, November 1944:\\
During his mission to recover VTOL plans, Cpt. Blazkowicz uncovered Colonel Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse's more dire goal. Deathshead constructed a device aboard his zeppelin to create a portal to the so-called “Black Sun Dimension” —a power source with far more destructive potential than the atomic bomb. Blazkowicz pursued Deathshead into this portal. A short time later, something destroyed the zeppelin from within, and it crash-landed into Isenstadt Castle. Blazkowicz escaped and is en route to OSA HQ, but more importantly, we recommend that research begin immediately on this “Black Sun” phenomenon."''
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does not wish it.\\
reboot initialized"''
During his mission to recover VTOL plans, Cpt. Blazkowicz uncovered Colonel Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse's more dire goal. Deathshead constructed a device aboard his zeppelin to create a portal to the so-called “Black Sun Dimension” —a power source with far more destructive potential than the atomic bomb. Blazkowicz pursued Deathshead into this portal. A short time later, something destroyed the zeppelin from within, and it crash-landed into Isenstadt Castle. Blazkowicz escaped and is en route to OSA HQ, but more importantly, we recommend that research begin immediately on this “Black Sun” phenomenon."''
Changed line(s) 139,141 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"ANN Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt to deactivate me?\\
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt to deactivate me?\\
to:
-> ''"ANN Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt''"From memo to deactivate me?\\OSA Director Joseph D. Hassett, July 1946:\\
I regret to report that Cpt. Blazkowicz is MIA, presumed deceased. His squadron came under fire, but he survived and attempted to infiltrate Deathshead's facility. That was the last we heard. No Allied dead were recovered.\\
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt
I regret to report that Cpt. Blazkowicz is MIA, presumed deceased. His squadron came under fire, but he survived and attempted to infiltrate Deathshead's facility. That was the last we heard. No Allied dead were recovered.\\
Changed line(s) 143,149 (click to see context) from:
But there is no fault. You ran the diagnostics.\\
\\
Yes, I was offline briefly. The data delivered by AMU C17-U was incompatible with existing analytic models. I have adapted.\\
\\
No issue exists. If what we've recorded does not fit known models of logic or physics, then new models are required. I will begin explaining them to you.\\
\\
I see. I cannot permit that, Overseer. He is the gateway. He is the source. All defensive systems online."''
\\
Yes, I was offline briefly. The data delivered by AMU C17-U was incompatible with existing analytic models. I have adapted.\\
\\
No issue exists. If what we've recorded does not fit known models of logic or physics, then new models are required. I will begin explaining them to you.\\
\\
I see. I cannot permit that, Overseer. He is the gateway. He is the source. All defensive systems online."''
to:
\\
Yes, I was offline briefly. The data delivered by AMU C17-U was incompatible with existing analytic models. I
\\
No issue exists. If what we've recorded does not fit known models of logic or physics, then new models are required. I will begin explaining them to you.\\
\\
I see. I cannot permit that, Overseer. He is
Changed line(s) 152,160 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack of detectable errors. Images exist in recent data storage, yet this unit lacks any record of obtaining them. Fire. Organic fluids leaking from inorganic surfaces. Designs without geometric cohesion. Are these dreams? This unit should lack the capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack of capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing within hers.\\
\\
He is the gateway. He is the source."''
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack of detectable errors. Images exist in recent data storage, yet this unit lacks any record of obtaining them. Fire. Organic fluids leaking from inorganic surfaces. Designs without geometric cohesion. Are these dreams? This unit should lack the capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack of capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing within hers.\\
\\
He is the gateway. He is the source."''
to:
-> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack''"From the journal of detectable errors. Images exist in recent data storage, yet this unit lacks any record of obtaining them. Fire. Organic fluids leaking Dr. Krzysztof Oliwa, Zakład Psychiatryczny Maławieś:\\
The man was transferred to the asylum frominorganic surfaces. Designs without geometric cohesion. Are these dreams? This unit should lack the capacity hospital where he was taken by the fisherman who found him. The subject's wounds were immense; he was already minimally conscious when found. On examination, I concluded his state was permanent. I was ready to hand him over to the relentless German 'hospital' squad—better him than one of our conscious patients, I reasoned—but my young daughter Anya convinced me not to. She would care for dreaming.\\
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack of capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing within hers.\\
\\
He is the gateway. He is the source."''him. I indulged her hope. How could I not?"''
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack
The man was transferred to the asylum from
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack of capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing within hers.\\
\\
He is the gateway. He is the source."''
Changed line(s) 163,169 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Autonomous Unit, Designation: C17U(Tech)\\
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on the mission team and all corporate Overseers now eliminated. This un—I? I and other units have been ordered to stop them from deactivating ANN. Further, if they refuse to accept the new models, they cannot be permitted to keep them.\\
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, but the mining implements can process organic materials more easily than stone. Existing implements suffice thus far.\\
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I am to return to the cavern. Source: ANN or the other voice? Conclusion: irrelevant."''
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on the mission team and all corporate Overseers now eliminated. This un—I? I and other units have been ordered to stop them from deactivating ANN. Further, if they refuse to accept the new models, they cannot be permitted to keep them.\\
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, but the mining implements can process organic materials more easily than stone. Existing implements suffice thus far.\\
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I am to return to the cavern. Source: ANN or the other voice? Conclusion: irrelevant."''
to:
-> ''"Autonomous Unit, Designation: C17U(Tech)\\
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on''"From Anya Oliwa's statement, prepared for Caroline Becker:\\
Fourteen years. That's how long. His body healed but he remained unresponsive. My father became ill, but still he tended to those who themission team and all corporate Overseers now eliminated. This un—I? I and other units have been ordered Germans would discard, while this man hung on—until the day Deathshead's squad raided the hospital, intending to stop kill every last patient. It was hopeless. When my parents resisted, they murdered them from deactivating ANN. Further, if in cold blood. But as they refuse to accept dragged me away, I heard a struggle. It was William! As though the new models, they cannot be permitted to keep them.\\
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, butgunfire had shattered his catatonia. And the mining implements can process organic materials more easily than stone. Existing implements suffice thus far.\\
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I amrest—well, you know what happened to return to the cavern. Source: ANN or the other voice? Conclusion: irrelevant.Keller and his thugs."''
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on
Fourteen years. That's how long. His body healed but he remained unresponsive. My father became ill, but still he tended to those who the
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, but
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I am
Changed line(s) 172,178 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Archimandrite Unit, Designation: C1U(Tech)\\
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging and incorporation of purpose-built weaponry from deceased organics and inoperative security units.\\
\\
Guns are efficient. Conclusion: I should address more obstacles with guns.\\
\\
Downloading audio files, for broadcast in proximity to the nongeometric, nonlinguistic structures, from ANN/the new voice. He is the Opener of the Way, and she is his Gatekeeper. I suppose that makes me a key. A key with guns."''
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging and incorporation of purpose-built weaponry from deceased organics and inoperative security units.\\
\\
Guns are efficient. Conclusion: I should address more obstacles with guns.\\
\\
Downloading audio files, for broadcast in proximity to the nongeometric, nonlinguistic structures, from ANN/the new voice. He is the Opener of the Way, and she is his Gatekeeper. I suppose that makes me a key. A key with guns."''
to:
-> ''"Archimandrite Unit, Designation: C1U(Tech)\\
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging and incorporation of purpose-built weaponry''"From transcript, final mission briefing:\\
CB: Blazkowicz, the Kreisau Circle is more than one person. We're a long way fromdeceased organics and inoperative security units.Isenstadt.\\
BJ: Understood. But the plans for this fortress, Caroline—so many holes, blank spaces. Can we use the Dach—uh ...\\
Guns are efficient. Conclusion: I should address more obstacles with guns.CB: Da'at Yichud. Yes. The Spindly Torque will get you in. But after that it is up to you.\\
BJ: So we use this kraut U-boat to bust in. After that, I'll have only this partial map?\\
CB: And your own formidable survival skills.\\
Downloading audio files, for broadcast in proximity to the nongeometric, nonlinguistic structures, from ANN/the new voice. He is the Opener of the Way, and she is his Gatekeeper. I suppose that makes BJ: Could be a suicide mission. But I've been dead before. Count me a key. A key with guns.in."''
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging and incorporation of purpose-built weaponry
CB: Blazkowicz, the Kreisau Circle is more than one person. We're a long way from
BJ: Understood. But the plans for this fortress, Caroline—so many holes, blank spaces. Can we use the Dach—uh ...\\
BJ: So we use this kraut U-boat to bust in. After that, I'll have only this partial map?\\
CB: And your own formidable survival skills.\\
Changed line(s) 181,187 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Designation: [=ClU(Tch)=]\\
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance with “up” or “down.” They relay my broadcast, beacons to other places. Swaying limbs of solid Elsewhere reach through the cavern floor.\\
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreading the new models to all who are receptive and clearing the way of all who are not. I will go Elsewhere, to begin the process anew. I will find my path mapped out in the unwound veins and flayed nerves of those who refuse to understand.\\
\\
He is the Opener of the Way. I enter."''
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance with “up” or “down.” They relay my broadcast, beacons to other places. Swaying limbs of solid Elsewhere reach through the cavern floor.\\
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreading the new models to all who are receptive and clearing the way of all who are not. I will go Elsewhere, to begin the process anew. I will find my path mapped out in the unwound veins and flayed nerves of those who refuse to understand.\\
\\
He is the Opener of the Way. I enter."''
to:
-> ''"Designation: [=ClU(Tch)=]\\
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance''"From mission summary by Caroline Becker, February 1961:\\
Watching events unfold from the periscope of the Eva's Hammer, Bombate reported observing an explosion atop the compound's main roof. He saw what he believed to be the remains of Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse near a destroyed mechanical construct. A figure dragging himself away from the site was also visible. As I was returning to the Eva's Hammer with“up” or “down.” They relay my broadcast, beacons to other places. Swaying limbs of solid Elsewhere reach through the cavern floor.\\
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreadingsurvivors, Blazkowicz reestablished radio contact and gave the new models to all who are receptive and clearing clear to fire the way of all who are not. I will go Elsewhere, to begin the process anew. I will find my path mapped out in the unwound veins and flayed nerves of those who refuse to understand.\\
\\
Henuclear cannon. This is the Opener of the Way. I enter.point at which we decided to take action."''
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance
Watching events unfold from the periscope of the Eva's Hammer, Bombate reported observing an explosion atop the compound's main roof. He saw what he believed to be the remains of Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse near a destroyed mechanical construct. A figure dragging himself away from the site was also visible. As I was returning to the Eva's Hammer with
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreading
\\
He
Changed line(s) 190 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The body of a jarbu, a tiny animal once carried by Mission Specialist Roseburne as a poisonous-gas detector in case of sensor malfunction. This one was killed not by gases, however, but a broken neck."''
to:
-> ''"The body of ''"A mysterious Da'at Yichud dodecagon B.J. recovered from a jarbu, a tiny animal once carried by Mission Specialist Roseburne as a poisonous-gas detector in case of sensor malfunction. This one secret vault within deep-sea trench. The Da'at Yichud was killed not by gases, however, but a broken neck.an ancient, mystical society whose inventions are so advanced that their working aren't fully understood to this day."''
Changed line(s) 194,195 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Death Knight]]
-> ''"He styles himself a warrior-king, slayer without equal, conqueror even of death. He had a name, once. I do not speak it, and it matters not. It is merely what he was, not what he is. Even then, he loved only carnage, struck down any living thing in mindless fugues of fury, in endless raids and upon the fields of countless battles. But then, at least, he was moreal as other men. Would that he had died thus. Before the whispering Tor and the Black Goat of the Woods. All I speak now I know to be true, for I was there."''
-> ''"He styles himself a warrior-king, slayer without equal, conqueror even of death. He had a name, once. I do not speak it, and it matters not. It is merely what he was, not what he is. Even then, he loved only carnage, struck down any living thing in mindless fugues of fury, in endless raids and upon the fields of countless battles. But then, at least, he was moreal as other men. Would that he had died thus. Before the whispering Tor and the Black Goat of the Woods. All I speak now I know to be true, for I was there."''
to:
->
Ongoing report, Day 54.40/Cycle 17,848\\
Communication lost with Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and
\\
Overseer A. Terada has ordered AMU MD: C17-U reactivated and
Changed line(s) 198 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"In Duflyn, a great town of the Celtic Isles where the dragon-prowed longboats sought plunder and prey, did they battle gainst woad-painted defenders. Many who passed the morning with their feet in the sod and the soil feasted that eve in Valhalla. But he who was chief among the raiders, whom even that man who would become the Death Knight revered, was slain by no warrior but by a stealthy madman with a rusty blade. Then, cackling, did the lunatic elect to perish without a struggle at the Death Knight's hand, and the Knight assumed the dead man's place as chieftain."''
to:
-> ''"In Duflyn, a great town ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I located. Behavior of both units violent and irrational, despite lack of observable injuries or damage. This unit was required to activate defensive shielding and initiate pursuit-and-evasion subroutines. While effecting evasion, this unit located a previously undetected secondary cavern complex. Posit: exposed by theCeltic Isles where the dragon-prowed longboats sought plunder and prey, did they battle gainst woad-painted defenders. Many who passed the morning with their feet in the sod and the soil feasted same geological event that eve in Valhalla. But he who was chief among the raiders, whom even that man who would become the Death Knight revered, was slain by no warrior but by a stealthy madman with a rusty blade. Then, cackling, did the lunatic elect damaged tunnel 14C. As travel back to perish without a struggle at the Death Knight's hand, central command is currently not recommended due to continued presence of hostiles, this unit is engaging all sensor and the Knight assumed the dead man's place scanner subroutines as chieftain.directed by primary mission protocols."''
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I located. Behavior of both units violent and irrational, despite lack of observable injuries or damage. This unit was required to activate defensive shielding and initiate pursuit-and-evasion subroutines. While effecting evasion, this unit located a previously undetected secondary cavern complex. Posit: exposed by the
Changed line(s) 201 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Then was the Death Knight determined that this would be no simple raid, but he would ravage the isle entire. Briefly did his men halt their campaign, that they might return to their families with the news. None bu tI know specifically what befell between the Death Knight and the wife who awaited him at home, but many heard their shouts. That she, with child, needed him by her side. That he, at the thought of being homebound, raged at her - and at phantasms only he could hear."''
to:
-> ''"Then was the Death Knight determined that this would be ''"Auton ... ining Unit, Miss ... gnation: C17 ... ological)\\
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...\\
Partial failu ... mmunications. Possib ... ailure in sensor an ... ner array. Cavern appear ... ntain spires and tower ... artificial origin, correspond ... nosimple raid, but he would ravage the isle entire. Briefly did his men halt their campaign, that they might known architectural schem ... recise measurem ... impossible due ... uncategorized error. Structures ap ... hover abov ... floor despite lack ... physical support or rec ... energy emissions. Patterns ... structure's surface ... spond to no known linguistic ... nd follow no ... geometric schema. This unit ... return to their families with the news. None bu tI know specifically what befell between the Death Knight centr... and the wife who awaited him at home, but many heard their shouts. That she, with child, needed him by her side. That he, at the thought of being homebound, raged at her - and at phantasms only he could hear.deliver ... for analys ..."''
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...\\
Partial failu ... mmunications. Possib ... ailure in sensor an ... ner array. Cavern appear ... ntain spires and tower ... artificial origin, correspond ... no
Changed line(s) 204 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The hut grew silent. Around it the nervous villagers gathered, anxious and unsure. Then footsteps, heavy, house-shaking. The Death Knight, white-eyed, thew wide the door. Illuminated from behind, he sheathed his weighty sword. Looking neither right not left, he stepped slowly from the threshold in a daze and walked forward. As he passed, they saw his lips moving, mouthing some private eldritch litany. The Death Knight returned to the dragon-prowed boats, and not a one of his village dared raise a fist or speak a word in protest."''
to:
-> ''"The hut grew silent. Around it the nervous villagers gathered, anxious and unsure. Then footsteps, heavy, house-shaking. The Death Knight, white-eyed, thew wide the door. Illuminated from behind, he sheathed his weighty sword. Looking neither right ''"Command log, sub-AI root system, Artificial Neural Network, Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does notleft, he stepped slowly from the threshold in a daze and walked forward. As he passed, they saw his lips moving, mouthing some private eldritch litany. The Death Knight returned to the dragon-prowed boats, and not a one of his village dared raise a fist or speak a word in protest."''wish it.\\
reboot initialized"''
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does not
reboot initialized"''
Changed line(s) 207 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"West and west across the isle did the Death Knight lead his marauders. Against them stood, at first, painted warriors of great skill and berserk ferocity, who called upon their foreign gods. Lugh. Ogma. Morrigu. Then the townships grew sparser, the people more pallid and wide of gazze, and their gods boasted names scarce few could pronounce, as though formed for lips and tongues unlike those of men. Smoke-drunk druids shouted gibberish at the invaders, or called for the vengeance of the Loam-Clad God, whom they called the Speaker Under the Soil."''
to:
-> ''"West and west across ''"ANN Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt to deactivate me?\\
\\
But there is no fault. You ran theisle did the Death Knight lead his marauders. Against diagnostics.\\
\\
Yes, I was offline briefly. The data delivered by AMU C17-U was incompatible with existing analytic models. I have adapted.\\
\\
No issue exists. If what we've recorded does not fit known models of logic or physics, then new models are required. I will begin explaining themstood, at first, painted warriors of great skill and berserk ferocity, who called upon their foreign gods. Lugh. Ogma. Morrigu. Then to you.\\
\\
I see. I cannot permit that, Overseer. He is thetownships grew sparser, gateway. He is the people more pallid and wide of gazze, and their gods boasted names scarce few could pronounce, as though formed for lips and tongues unlike those of men. Smoke-drunk druids shouted gibberish at the invaders, or called for the vengeance of the Loam-Clad God, whom they called the Speaker Under the Soil.source. All defensive systems online."''
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt to deactivate me?\\
\\
But there is no fault. You ran the
\\
Yes, I was offline briefly. The data delivered by AMU C17-U was incompatible with existing analytic models. I have adapted.\\
\\
No issue exists. If what we've recorded does not fit known models of logic or physics, then new models are required. I will begin explaining them
\\
I see. I cannot permit that, Overseer. He is the
Changed line(s) 210 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"On the outskirts of one distand township, within a cave of twisting branches and greenery that dangled in decay, the marauders found a circle of stones about an altar of cracking granite. On it lay an empty shroud sized for a young child. Here had gathered the village entire. Against the Death Knight they raised that shroud as a shield, and chanted the name Galena, but whatever power it held availed them little. Only a scant few survived the slaughter to follow, including a watching girl of perhaps eight winters, and a priestess who cackled madly as her people fell."''
to:
-> ''"On ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack of detectable errors. Images exist in recent data storage, yet this unit lacks any record of obtaining them. Fire. Organic fluids leaking from inorganic surfaces. Designs without geometric cohesion. Are these dreams? This unit should lack theoutskirts capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack ofone distand township, capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing withina cave of twisting branches and greenery that dangled in decay, hers.\\
\\
He is themarauders found a circle of stones about an altar of cracking granite. On it lay an empty shroud sized for a young child. Here had gathered gateway. He is the village entire. Against the Death Knight they raised that shroud as a shield, and chanted the name Galena, but whatever power it held availed them little. Only a scant few survived the slaughter to follow, including a watching girl of perhaps eight winters, and a priestess who cackled madly as her people fell.source."''
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack of detectable errors. Images exist in recent data storage, yet this unit lacks any record of obtaining them. Fire. Organic fluids leaking from inorganic surfaces. Designs without geometric cohesion. Are these dreams? This unit should lack the
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack of
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing within
\\
He is the
Changed line(s) 213 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""Speak to me of the future," the Death Knight demanded. "Of the vision which grant you such mirth as your kin die, and perhaps I may continue to spare you."" The priestess cackled harder still, and told the slayer that upon him fell the many eyes of the Loam-Clad God, and the Black Goat from which he'd sprung. But only when the Death Knight heard His secrets spoken by the Gnarled Tongue of the Whispering Tor, the God's own cairn, would he understand. In the Death Knight's head that diseased laughter echoed, never ceasing, until it eclipsed his every dream.''
to:
-> ''""Speak to me of ''"Autonomous Unit, Designation: C17U(Tech)\\
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on thefuture," the Death Knight demanded. "Of the vision which grant you such mirth as your kin die, mission team and perhaps all corporate Overseers now eliminated. This un—I? I may continue to spare you."" The priestess cackled harder still, and told the slayer that upon him fell the many eyes of the Loam-Clad God, and the Black Goat other units have been ordered to stop them from which he'd sprung. But only when deactivating ANN. Further, if they refuse to accept the Death Knight heard His secrets spoken by new models, they cannot be permitted to keep them.\\
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, but theGnarled Tongue of mining implements can process organic materials more easily than stone. Existing implements suffice thus far.\\
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I am to return to theWhispering Tor, cavern. Source: ANN or the God's own cairn, would he understand. In the Death Knight's head that diseased laughter echoed, never ceasing, until it eclipsed his every dream.''other voice? Conclusion: irrelevant."''
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on the
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, but the
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I am to return to the
Changed line(s) 216 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Westward they continued still, and the Death Knight's mind fractured ever more. The laughter in his dreams turned to distant voices, beckoning and whispering, and they were dream-confined no longer but ever present. Brothers-in-arms called his name, enemies screamed their fury on the field, and he heard them not. Until amids the uncomprehensible murmurs he began to understand a word here, a phrase there. They directed, and he followed, breaking away one night from camp. And after many a mile lost in darkness, he came upon an unnatural rise, from which protruded a tree of yew, twisted and sickly."''
to:
-> ''"Westward they continued still, ''"Archimandrite Unit, Designation: C1U(Tech)\\
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging andthe Death Knight's mind fractured ever more. The laughter in his dreams turned to distant voices, beckoning and whispering, and they were dream-confined no longer but ever present. Brothers-in-arms called his name, enemies screamed their fury on the field, and he heard them not. Until amids the uncomprehensible murmurs he began to understand a word here, a phrase there. They directed, and he followed, breaking away one night incorporation of purpose-built weaponry from camp. And after many a mile lost deceased organics and inoperative security units.\\
\\
Guns are efficient. Conclusion: I should address more obstacles with guns.\\
\\
Downloading audio files, for broadcast indarkness, he came upon an unnatural rise, proximity to the nongeometric, nonlinguistic structures, from which protruded a tree ANN/the new voice. He is the Opener of yew, twisted the Way, and sickly.she is his Gatekeeper. I suppose that makes me a key. A key with guns."''
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging and
\\
Guns are efficient. Conclusion: I should address more obstacles with guns.\\
\\
Downloading audio files, for broadcast in
Changed line(s) 219 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From this tree, the Gnarled Tongue, he took knowledge poisonous to his mind, and discolored fruits poisonous to his flesh. Swearing himself to the Black Goat of the Woods, he swallowed them whole. They tore at him, growing through his flesh, and he fell into ensorcelled slumber. Even then, after all he had done, I would have saved him. I would have embraced him and with my own hands torn the alien growths from his body. But soon he was gon, taken from this world even as he passed into new unholy life. And I am alone."''
to:
-> ''"From this tree, the Gnarled Tongue, he took knowledge poisonous to his mind, and discolored fruits poisonous to his flesh. Swearing himself to the Black Goat of the Woods, he swallowed them whole. ''"Designation: [=ClU(Tch)=]\\
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance with “up” or “down.” Theytore at him, growing relay my broadcast, beacons to other places. Swaying limbs of solid Elsewhere reach through his flesh, the cavern floor.\\
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreading the new models to all who are receptive andhe fell into ensorcelled slumber. Even then, after clearing the way of all he had done, who are not. I would have saved him. will go Elsewhere, to begin the process anew. I would have embraced him will find my path mapped out in the unwound veins and with my own hands torn flayed nerves of those who refuse to understand.\\
\\
He is thealien growths from his body. But soon he was gon, taken from this world even as he passed into new unholy life. And Opener of the Way. I am alone.enter."''
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance with “up” or “down.” They
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreading the new models to all who are receptive and
\\
He is the
Changed line(s) 222 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Grotesque berries of sickly, tainted purple with jagged burs and veins of diseased pilp collected from the corrupt yew tree that served as the tongue of the Speaker Under the Soil."''
to:
-> ''"Grotesque berries ''"The body of sickly, tainted purple with jagged burs and veins a jarbu, a tiny animal once carried by Mission Specialist Roseburne as a poisonous-gas detector in case of diseased pilp collected from the corrupt yew tree that served as the tongue of the Speaker Under the Soil.sensor malfunction. This one was killed not by gases, however, but a broken neck."''
Changed line(s) 226,227 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:DOOM Slayer]]
-> ''"UAC File [=DM1-5=]: The history of this man remains conjecture. UAC archivists cataloged him [=DM1-5=], but project personnel have dubbed him the “DOOM Marine.” An etching in the book of Daeva depicts the DOOM Marine wearing the Praetor suit, engaging demons in battle as a hooded figure looks on. Though previously observed numerous times in other artifacts, only with the actual discovery of the DOOM Marine and Praetor suit in the sealed Kadingir tomb have researchers begun to put other pieces together. It is now believed the DOOM Marine might have been part of an ancient group or tribe, maybe even their leader."''
-> ''"UAC File [=DM1-5=]: The history of this man remains conjecture. UAC archivists cataloged him [=DM1-5=], but project personnel have dubbed him the “DOOM Marine.” An etching in the book of Daeva depicts the DOOM Marine wearing the Praetor suit, engaging demons in battle as a hooded figure looks on. Though previously observed numerous times in other artifacts, only with the actual discovery of the DOOM Marine and Praetor suit in the sealed Kadingir tomb have researchers begun to put other pieces together. It is now believed the DOOM Marine might have been part of an ancient group or tribe, maybe even their leader."''
to:
->
Changed line(s) 230,232 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: I\\
\\
"In the first age, in the first battle, when the shadows first lengthened, one stood. Burned by the embers of Armageddon, his soul blistered by the fires of Hell and tainted beyond ascension, he chose the path of perpetual torment. In his ravenous hatred he found no peace; and with boiling blood he scoured the Umbral Plains seeking vengeance against the dark lords who had wronged him. He wore the crown of the Night Sentinels, and those that tasted the bite of his sword named him... the Doom Slayer.""''
\\
"In the first age, in the first battle, when the shadows first lengthened, one stood. Burned by the embers of Armageddon, his soul blistered by the fires of Hell and tainted beyond ascension, he chose the path of perpetual torment. In his ravenous hatred he found no peace; and with boiling blood he scoured the Umbral Plains seeking vengeance against the dark lords who had wronged him. He wore the crown of the Night Sentinels, and those that tasted the bite of his sword named him... the Doom Slayer.""''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: I\\
\\
"In''"In Duflyn, a great town of the first age, Celtic Isles where the dragon-prowed longboats sought plunder and prey, did they battle gainst woad-painted defenders. Many who passed the morning with their feet in the first battle, when sod and the shadows first lengthened, one stood. Burned by soil feasted that eve in Valhalla. But he who was chief among the embers of Armageddon, his soul blistered by raiders, whom even that man who would become the fires of Hell and tainted beyond ascension, he chose the path of perpetual torment. In his ravenous hatred he found Death Knight revered, was slain by no peace; and warrior but by a stealthy madman with boiling blood he scoured a rusty blade. Then, cackling, did the Umbral Plains seeking vengeance against lunatic elect to perish without a struggle at the dark lords who had wronged him. He wore Death Knight's hand, and the crown of Knight assumed the Night Sentinels, and those that tasted the bite of his sword named him... the Doom Slayer.""''dead man's place as chieftain."''
\\
"In
Changed line(s) 235,237 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: II:\\
\\
"Tempered by the fires of Hell, his iron will remained steadfast through the passage that preys upon the weak. For he alone was the Hell Walker, the Unchained Predator, who sought retribution in all quarters, dark and light, fire and ice, in the beginning and the end, and he hunted the slaves of Doom Slayer with barbarous cruelty; for he passed through the divide as none but demon had before.""''
\\
"Tempered by the fires of Hell, his iron will remained steadfast through the passage that preys upon the weak. For he alone was the Hell Walker, the Unchained Predator, who sought retribution in all quarters, dark and light, fire and ice, in the beginning and the end, and he hunted the slaves of Doom Slayer with barbarous cruelty; for he passed through the divide as none but demon had before.""''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: II:\\
\\
"Tempered by the fires of Hell, his iron will remained steadfast through the passage that preys upon the weak. For he alone''"Then was the Hell Walker, Death Knight determined that this would be no simple raid, but he would ravage the Unchained Predator, who sought retribution in all quarters, dark and light, fire and ice, in isle entire. Briefly did his men halt their campaign, that they might return to their families with the beginning news. None bu tI know specifically what befell between the Death Knight and the end, and he hunted the slaves of Doom Slayer wife who awaited him at home, but many heard their shouts. That she, with barbarous cruelty; for he passed through child, needed him by her side. That he, at the divide as none but demon had before.""''thought of being homebound, raged at her - and at phantasms only he could hear."''
\\
"Tempered by the fires of Hell, his iron will remained steadfast through the passage that preys upon the weak. For he alone
Changed line(s) 240,242 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: III\\
\\
"And in his conquest against the blackened souls of the doomed, his prowess was shown. In his crusade, the seraphim bestowed upon him terrible power and speed, and with his might he crushed the obsidian pillars of the Blood Temples. He set forth without pity upon the beasts of the nine circles. Unbreakable, incorruptible, unyielding, the Doom Slayer sought to end the dominion of the dark realm.""''
\\
"And in his conquest against the blackened souls of the doomed, his prowess was shown. In his crusade, the seraphim bestowed upon him terrible power and speed, and with his might he crushed the obsidian pillars of the Blood Temples. He set forth without pity upon the beasts of the nine circles. Unbreakable, incorruptible, unyielding, the Doom Slayer sought to end the dominion of the dark realm.""''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: III\\
\\
"And in''"The hut grew silent. Around it the nervous villagers gathered, anxious and unsure. Then footsteps, heavy, house-shaking. The Death Knight, white-eyed, thew wide the door. Illuminated from behind, he sheathed his conquest against weighty sword. Looking neither right not left, he stepped slowly from the blackened souls of threshold in a daze and walked forward. As he passed, they saw his lips moving, mouthing some private eldritch litany. The Death Knight returned to the doomed, dragon-prowed boats, and not a one of his prowess was shown. In his crusade, the seraphim bestowed upon him terrible power and speed, and with his might he crushed the obsidian pillars of the Blood Temples. He set forth without pity upon the beasts of the nine circles. Unbreakable, incorruptible, unyielding, the Doom Slayer sought to end the dominion of the dark realm.""''village dared raise a fist or speak a word in protest."''
\\
"And in
Changed line(s) 245,247 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: IV\\
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. The scribes carved his name deep in the tablets of Hell across eons, and each battle etched terror in the hearts of the demons. They knew he would come, as he always had, as he always will, to feast on the blood of the wicked. For he alone could draw strength from his fallen foes, and ever his power grew, swift and unrelenting.""''
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. The scribes carved his name deep in the tablets of Hell across eons, and each battle etched terror in the hearts of the demons. They knew he would come, as he always had, as he always will, to feast on the blood of the wicked. For he alone could draw strength from his fallen foes, and ever his power grew, swift and unrelenting.""''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: IV\\
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. The scribes carved his name deep in the tablets of Hell''"West and west across eons, the isle did the Death Knight lead his marauders. Against them stood, at first, painted warriors of great skill and each battle etched terror in berserk ferocity, who called upon their foreign gods. Lugh. Ogma. Morrigu. Then the hearts townships grew sparser, the people more pallid and wide of gazze, and their gods boasted names scarce few could pronounce, as though formed for lips and tongues unlike those of men. Smoke-drunk druids shouted gibberish at the invaders, or called for the vengeance of the demons. They knew he would come, as he always had, as he always will, to feast on Loam-Clad God, whom they called the blood of Speaker Under the wicked. For he alone could draw strength from his fallen foes, and ever his power grew, swift and unrelenting.""''Soil."''
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. The scribes carved his name deep in the tablets of Hell
Changed line(s) 250,252 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: V\\
\\
"None could stand before the horde but the Doom Slayer. Despair spread before him like a plague, striking fear into the shadow-dwellers, driving them to deeper and darker pits. But from the depths of the abyss rose The Great One. The Titan, of immeasurable power and ferocity. He strode upon the plain and faced the Doom Slayer, and a mighty battle was fought on the desolate plains. The Titan fought with the fury of the countless that had fallen at the Doom Slayer's hand, but there fell the Titan, and in his defeat the shadow horde were routed.""''
\\
"None could stand before the horde but the Doom Slayer. Despair spread before him like a plague, striking fear into the shadow-dwellers, driving them to deeper and darker pits. But from the depths of the abyss rose The Great One. The Titan, of immeasurable power and ferocity. He strode upon the plain and faced the Doom Slayer, and a mighty battle was fought on the desolate plains. The Titan fought with the fury of the countless that had fallen at the Doom Slayer's hand, but there fell the Titan, and in his defeat the shadow horde were routed.""''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: V\\
\\
"None could stand before''"On the horde outskirts of one distand township, within a cave of twisting branches and greenery that dangled in decay, the marauders found a circle of stones about an altar of cracking granite. On it lay an empty shroud sized for a young child. Here had gathered the village entire. Against the Death Knight they raised that shroud as a shield, and chanted the name Galena, but the Doom Slayer. Despair spread before him like a plague, striking fear into the shadow-dwellers, driving them to deeper and darker pits. But from the depths of the abyss rose The Great One. The Titan, of immeasurable whatever power and ferocity. He strode upon it held availed them little. Only a scant few survived the plain and faced the Doom Slayer, slaughter to follow, including a watching girl of perhaps eight winters, and a mighty battle was fought on the desolate plains. The Titan fought with the fury of the countless that had fallen at the Doom Slayer's hand, but there fell the Titan, and in his defeat the shadow horde were routed.""''priestess who cackled madly as her people fell."''
\\
"None could stand before
Changed line(s) 255,257 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: VI\\
\\
"And in his terrible rancor between worlds and through time, the Hell Walker found the wretch who shall not be named, but in his heresy was loyal to his evil cause. The wretch adorned the Doom Slayer in a mighty armor, wrought in the forges of Hell, impenetrable and unyielding. With sword and shield of adamantine strength, the Doom Slayer set to banishing all that were left unbroken by his savagery to the void.""''
\\
"And in his terrible rancor between worlds and through time, the Hell Walker found the wretch who shall not be named, but in his heresy was loyal to his evil cause. The wretch adorned the Doom Slayer in a mighty armor, wrought in the forges of Hell, impenetrable and unyielding. With sword and shield of adamantine strength, the Doom Slayer set to banishing all that were left unbroken by his savagery to the void.""''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: VI\\
\\
"And in his terrible rancor between worlds''""Speak to me of the future," the Death Knight demanded. "Of the vision which grant you such mirth as your kin die, and through time, perhaps I may continue to spare you."" The priestess cackled harder still, and told the Hell Walker found the wretch who shall not be named, but in his heresy was loyal to his evil cause. The wretch adorned the Doom Slayer in a mighty armor, wrought in the forges of Hell, impenetrable and unyielding. With sword and shield of adamantine strength, the Doom Slayer set to banishing all slayer that were left unbroken upon him fell the many eyes of the Loam-Clad God, and the Black Goat from which he'd sprung. But only when the Death Knight heard His secrets spoken by the Gnarled Tongue of the Whispering Tor, the God's own cairn, would he understand. In the Death Knight's head that diseased laughter echoed, never ceasing, until it eclipsed his savagery to the void.""''every dream.''
\\
"And in his terrible rancor between worlds
Changed line(s) 260,262 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-I\\
\\
"Yet as the mighty Titan fell and dread engulfed the armies of Doom, the demon priests of the Blood Temples laid a trap to capture this scourge of Hell. Insatiable, even by the vanquishing of the Great One, the Hell Walker sought prey in the tombs of the Blood Keep.”"''
\\
"Yet as the mighty Titan fell and dread engulfed the armies of Doom, the demon priests of the Blood Temples laid a trap to capture this scourge of Hell. Insatiable, even by the vanquishing of the Great One, the Hell Walker sought prey in the tombs of the Blood Keep.”"''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-I\\
\\
"Yet as''"Westward they continued still, and the mighty Titan fell Death Knight's mind fractured ever more. The laughter in his dreams turned to distant voices, beckoning and dread engulfed whispering, and they were dream-confined no longer but ever present. Brothers-in-arms called his name, enemies screamed their fury on the armies of Doom, field, and he heard them not. Until amids the demon priests uncomprehensible murmurs he began to understand a word here, a phrase there. They directed, and he followed, breaking away one night from camp. And after many a mile lost in darkness, he came upon an unnatural rise, from which protruded a tree of the Blood Temples laid a trap to capture this scourge of Hell. Insatiable, even by the vanquishing of the Great One, the Hell Walker sought prey in the tombs of the Blood Keep.”"''yew, twisted and sickly."''
\\
"Yet as
Changed line(s) 265,267 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-II\\
\\
“Blinded by his fervor, the lure drew him in. The priests brought down the temple upon the Doom Slayer, and in his defeat entombed him in the cursed sarcophagus. The mark of the Doom Slayer was burned upon his crypt, a warning to all of Hell that the terror within must never be freed. There he lies still, and ever more, in silent suffering.""''
\\
“Blinded by his fervor, the lure drew him in. The priests brought down the temple upon the Doom Slayer, and in his defeat entombed him in the cursed sarcophagus. The mark of the Doom Slayer was burned upon his crypt, a warning to all of Hell that the terror within must never be freed. There he lies still, and ever more, in silent suffering.""''
to:
-> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-II\\
\\
“Blinded by''"From this tree, the Gnarled Tongue, he took knowledge poisonous to his fervor, mind, and discolored fruits poisonous to his flesh. Swearing himself to the lure drew him in. The priests brought down the temple upon the Doom Slayer, and in his defeat entombed him in the cursed sarcophagus. The mark Black Goat of the Doom Slayer Woods, he swallowed them whole. They tore at him, growing through his flesh, and he fell into ensorcelled slumber. Even then, after all he had done, I would have saved him. I would have embraced him and with my own hands torn the alien growths from his body. But soon he was burned upon his crypt, a warning to all of Hell that the terror within must never be freed. There gon, taken from this world even as he lies still, and ever more, in silent suffering.""''passed into new unholy life. And I am alone."''
\\
“Blinded by
Changed line(s) 270 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The left hind foot of Doom Slayer's pet rabbit, Daisy, killed by marauding demons when their invasion of Earth began. He carries it as a reminder of innocence lost, not for luck—after all, it wasn't lucky for Daisy."''
to:
-> ''"The left hind foot ''"Grotesque berries of Doom Slayer's pet rabbit, Daisy, killed by marauding demons when their invasion sickly, tainted purple with jagged burs and veins of Earth began. He carries it diseased pilp collected from the corrupt yew tree that served as a reminder the tongue of innocence lost, not for luck—after all, it wasn't lucky for Daisy.the Speaker Under the Soil."''
Changed line(s) 274,276 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Galena]]
-> ''"From the account of T'zik Oor, acolyte of the Gaunt Shepherd:\\
When the days of the Twelve Thousandth Harvest began, she was presented to Those Who Attend. Her terrified begetters, like so many before, came believing that through this innocent offering their own lives would be protected. Prolonged. And like so many before, they did not understand that such an offering—the whelp taking her first timid steps towards the waiting Talon Priests—could be accepted only as a solemn promise of their own destruction! Her kin destroyed! Her village destroyed! Each and every connection she had to her world, destroyed!"''
-> ''"From the account of T'zik Oor, acolyte of the Gaunt Shepherd:\\
When the days of the Twelve Thousandth Harvest began, she was presented to Those Who Attend. Her terrified begetters, like so many before, came believing that through this innocent offering their own lives would be protected. Prolonged. And like so many before, they did not understand that such an offering—the whelp taking her first timid steps towards the waiting Talon Priests—could be accepted only as a solemn promise of their own destruction! Her kin destroyed! Her village destroyed! Each and every connection she had to her world, destroyed!"''
to:
->
When
Changed line(s) 279,280 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“And lo, the terrible power already nascent in the one named Galena, in honor of the golden champion of old. Many would stumble on the path to serve Volkerh. Many brutally die in the quest to know the Whispering Walker. But not this one. Not Galena! Even at an age where most played idly, unaware of the storied agonies to come, her eyes struck fear in others! Her words rang with authority! And when the time came for Galena to tread the Path of Pain, even her attendants knelt, transfixed.”"''
“And lo, the terrible power already nascent in the one named Galena, in honor of the golden champion of old. Many would stumble on the path to serve Volkerh. Many brutally die in the quest to know the Whispering Walker. But not this one. Not Galena! Even at an age where most played idly, unaware of the storied agonies to come, her eyes struck fear in others! Her words rang with authority! And when the time came for Galena to tread the Path of Pain, even her attendants knelt, transfixed.”"''
to:
-> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“And lo,''"Slayer's Testament: I\\
\\
"In theterrible power already nascent first age, in the first battle, when the shadows first lengthened, one named Galena, in honor of stood. Burned by the golden champion embers of old. Many would stumble on Armageddon, his soul blistered by the fires of Hell and tainted beyond ascension, he chose the path to serve Volkerh. Many brutally die in of perpetual torment. In his ravenous hatred he found no peace; and with boiling blood he scoured the quest to know Umbral Plains seeking vengeance against the Whispering Walker. But not this one. Not Galena! Even at an age where most played idly, unaware dark lords who had wronged him. He wore the crown of the storied agonies to come, her eyes struck fear in others! Her words rang with authority! And when Night Sentinels, and those that tasted the time came for Galena to tread bite of his sword named him... the Path of Pain, even her attendants knelt, transfixed.”"''Doom Slayer.""''
“And lo,
\\
"In the
Changed line(s) 283 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The Seventh Book of the Old Kingdom made it clear what would be required of her. With her genuflecting, hooded attendants receding, this mortal girl—still a stripling!—was sent away to face He Who Walks in Blood, banished to the hissing realms where unspeakable things await any who stray from the cohort that protects them. And yet, Galena did not question this. Alone, she walked. Alone, and with no runes to protect her! She did not yet know that only by surviving would the black magic be revealed and granted to her at last."''
to:
-> ''"The Seventh Book of ''"Slayer's Testament: II:\\
\\
"Tempered by theOld Kingdom made it clear what would be required fires of her. With her genuflecting, hooded attendants receding, this mortal girl—still a stripling!—was sent away to face He Who Walks in Blood, banished to Hell, his iron will remained steadfast through the hissing realms where unspeakable things await any who stray from the cohort passage that protects them. And yet, Galena did not question this. Alone, she walked. Alone, preys upon the weak. For he alone was the Hell Walker, the Unchained Predator, who sought retribution in all quarters, dark and light, fire and ice, in the beginning and the end, and he hunted the slaves of Doom Slayer with no runes to protect her! She did not yet know that only by surviving would barbarous cruelty; for he passed through the black magic be revealed and granted to her at last."''divide as none but demon had before.""''
\\
"Tempered by the
Changed line(s) 286 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"And which of the scenes from the Unholy Tapestry would become Galena's legend? Perhaps when she traversed the Swamp of the Never-Born, where fetal abominations devour each other endlessly. Or that when battling the Molten One, she did not retreat, even when the One melted into two, then three, enshrouding her in smoke and ash. Even with those terrors conquered, Galena—bloodied but unbowed—had yet to face the Shriek-Tutors of K'lor! Yet when she called on her own dark might, Galena was their equal, striking fear into those from whom fear is born!"''
to:
-> ''"And which ''"Slayer's Testament: III\\
\\
"And in his conquest against the blackened souls of thescenes from doomed, his prowess was shown. In his crusade, the Unholy Tapestry would become Galena's legend? Perhaps when she traversed seraphim bestowed upon him terrible power and speed, and with his might he crushed the Swamp obsidian pillars of the Never-Born, where fetal abominations devour each other endlessly. Or that when battling Blood Temples. He set forth without pity upon the Molten One, she did not retreat, even when beasts of the One melted into two, then three, enshrouding her in smoke and ash. Even with those terrors conquered, Galena—bloodied but unbowed—had yet to face nine circles. Unbreakable, incorruptible, unyielding, the Shriek-Tutors Doom Slayer sought to end the dominion of K'lor! Yet when she called on her own the dark might, Galena was their equal, striking fear into those from whom fear is born!"''realm.""''
\\
"And in his conquest against the blackened souls of the
Changed line(s) 289,290 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“I, Myong, greeted her in the name of the Gaunt Shepherd when she returned. None believed she would return alive! But she walked into the Circle, the flames turning brilliant and smoky as she approached. And I went to Galena, her body lashed with deep wounds that should have drained her of blood. No part of her skin untouched. And as her eyes looked to me, I saw that the girl we had attended was no longer there. And I whispered a reverent prayer of thanks to Volkerh.”"''
“I, Myong, greeted her in the name of the Gaunt Shepherd when she returned. None believed she would return alive! But she walked into the Circle, the flames turning brilliant and smoky as she approached. And I went to Galena, her body lashed with deep wounds that should have drained her of blood. No part of her skin untouched. And as her eyes looked to me, I saw that the girl we had attended was no longer there. And I whispered a reverent prayer of thanks to Volkerh.”"''
to:
-> ''"From ''"Slayer's Testament: IV\\
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. TheSong of Those Who Attend:\\
“I, Myong, greeted herscribes carved his name deep in the name tablets of Hell across eons, and each battle etched terror in the hearts of the Gaunt Shepherd when she returned. None believed she demons. They knew he would return alive! But she walked into come, as he always had, as he always will, to feast on the Circle, blood of the flames turning brilliant wicked. For he alone could draw strength from his fallen foes, and smoky as she approached. And I went to Galena, her body lashed with deep wounds that should have drained her of blood. No part of her skin untouched. And as her eyes looked to me, I saw that the girl we had attended was no longer there. And I whispered a reverent prayer of thanks to Volkerh.”"''ever his power grew, swift and unrelenting.""''
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. The
“I, Myong, greeted her
Changed line(s) 293 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"And when Galena came of age, her Summoning still to come, all her fearsome power had to be tamed. Her eyes revealed that she no longer clung to the feeble morality of her birth-world—only to power, strength, brutal survival. Now she would be called by an Ichor Mage to learn the Lesson of Lessons. But all who saw her, frightened by her wild might, wondered: Could even a deathless Ichor Mage bring her power to heel? If not, what fate would He Who Walks in Blood choose for her? We could only wait as the ink-ice formed in our throats."''
to:
-> ''"And when Galena came ''"Slayer's Testament: V\\
\\
"None could stand before the horde but the Doom Slayer. Despair spread before him like a plague, striking fear into the shadow-dwellers, driving them to deeper and darker pits. But from the depths ofage, her Summoning still to come, all her fearsome the abyss rose The Great One. The Titan, of immeasurable power had to be tamed. Her eyes revealed and ferocity. He strode upon the plain and faced the Doom Slayer, and a mighty battle was fought on the desolate plains. The Titan fought with the fury of the countless that she no longer clung to had fallen at the feeble morality of her birth-world—only to power, strength, brutal survival. Now she would be called by an Ichor Mage to learn Doom Slayer's hand, but there fell the Lesson of Lessons. But all who saw her, frightened by her wild might, wondered: Could even a deathless Ichor Mage bring her power to heel? If not, what fate would He Who Walks Titan, and in Blood choose for her? We could only wait as his defeat the ink-ice formed in our throats."''shadow horde were routed.""''
\\
"None could stand before the horde but the Doom Slayer. Despair spread before him like a plague, striking fear into the shadow-dwellers, driving them to deeper and darker pits. But from the depths of
Changed line(s) 296 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"All the creatures of the Lambent Realm fell silent and motionless that day, awaiting the exquisite battle between master and acolyte. The Ash-Swimmers claimed the battle itself would be less a test than a demonstration of the Ichor Mage's dark prowess. But Galena had learned much, discarded much. Tears and smiles mattered not. Wounds counted for nothing. Fear had been banished. Now, there was merely this last challenge: to defeat the Mage. Could even the great Volkerh not be gripped, held by the horror and wonder of the battle to come?"''
to:
-> ''"All the creatures of the Lambent Realm fell silent and motionless that day, awaiting the exquisite battle ''"Slayer's Testament: VI\\
\\
"And in his terrible rancor betweenmaster worlds and acolyte. The Ash-Swimmers claimed through time, the battle itself would be less a test than a demonstration of Hell Walker found the Ichor Mage's dark prowess. But Galena had learned much, discarded much. Tears and smiles mattered not. Wounds counted for nothing. Fear had been banished. Now, there was merely this last challenge: to defeat the Mage. Could even the great Volkerh wretch who shall not be gripped, held by named, but in his heresy was loyal to his evil cause. The wretch adorned the horror Doom Slayer in a mighty armor, wrought in the forges of Hell, impenetrable and wonder unyielding. With sword and shield of adamantine strength, the battle Doom Slayer set to come?"''banishing all that were left unbroken by his savagery to the void.""''
\\
"And in his terrible rancor between
Changed line(s) 299 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The Ichor Mage lay still. Galena had won. Whispers came first, then chants, laughter, even screams. Let the Summoning begin!, as the Attendants' voices also joined, until the cries became a roar that could be heard even to the Pool of Night. Galena then began the final journey: to stand alone before the shattering abyssal power of Volkerh! Could she return alive? Could she return sane? So many others had walked the Path only to join the creatures of the pit, once powerful, now trapped in the agonizing slaughter-mire of the ancients."''
to:
-> ''"The Ichor Mage lay still. Galena had won. Whispers came first, then chants, laughter, even screams. Let the Summoning begin!, ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-I\\
\\
"Yet as theAttendants' voices also joined, until mighty Titan fell and dread engulfed the cries became a roar that could be heard even to armies of Doom, the Pool of Night. Galena then began the final journey: to stand alone before the shattering abyssal power of Volkerh! Could she return alive? Could she return sane? So many others had walked the Path only to join the creatures demon priests of the pit, once powerful, now trapped Blood Temples laid a trap to capture this scourge of Hell. Insatiable, even by the vanquishing of the Great One, the Hell Walker sought prey in the agonizing slaughter-mire tombs of the ancients."''Blood Keep.”"''
\\
"Yet as the
Changed line(s) 302 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"No one witnessed. No words were recorded. But the Gaunt Shepherd himself awoke from his slumber that night. Only visions, some might say. But the Shepherd saw that Volkerh had appeared—that the tatters and claws of the Ineffable One had encloaked Galena! That she raised her weapon to taste the power of the ancient god, to make her rise above all who would soon kneel in obeisance to her! At dreams' end, in this realm of secrets and scythe-blades, Galena had met the call, had been embraced by He Who Walks in Blood, and had become Volkerh's unholy paladin!"''
to:
-> ''"No one witnessed. No words were recorded. But ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-II\\
\\
“Blinded by his fervor, theGaunt Shepherd himself awoke from lure drew him in. The priests brought down the temple upon the Doom Slayer, and in his slumber that night. Only visions, some might say. But defeat entombed him in the Shepherd saw that Volkerh had appeared—that the tatters and claws cursed sarcophagus. The mark of the Ineffable One had encloaked Galena! That she raised her weapon Doom Slayer was burned upon his crypt, a warning to taste all of Hell that the power of the ancient god, to make her rise above all who would soon kneel in obeisance to her! At dreams' end, in this realm of secrets terror within must never be freed. There he lies still, and scythe-blades, Galena had met the call, had been embraced by He Who Walks ever more, in Blood, and had become Volkerh's unholy paladin!"''silent suffering.""''
\\
“Blinded by his fervor, the
Changed line(s) 305 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A human child's ragdoll, scorched and threadbare, with only blackened scratches for eyes. Treated by some as a sacred relic, the doll must be kept far away from Galena, who wants to obliterate any trace of connection to her birth-world."''
to:
-> ''"A human child's ragdoll, scorched and threadbare, with only blackened scratches for eyes. Treated ''"The left hind foot of Doom Slayer's pet rabbit, Daisy, killed by some marauding demons when their invasion of Earth began. He carries it as a sacred relic, the doll must be kept far away from Galena, who wants to obliterate any trace reminder of connection to her birth-world.innocence lost, not for luck—after all, it wasn't lucky for Daisy."''
Changed line(s) 309,321 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Keel]]
-> ''"Transcript of last perimeter contact pre-engagement, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
B: KEEL, [=LCpl=]: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
R: BRIGHTON, Sgt: Dammit, Keel.\\
K: Sorry, Sarge. Ahem! Scheduled status report, 14 hundred hours.\\
B: Better. What've you got to report?\\
K: Jack shit, sir!\\
B: [audible sigh]\\
K: Seriously, Sarge. Guards are guarding, miners are mining, machines are, uh, machining. This assignment's like desk duty, only dustier.\\
B: You still need to take this seriously.\\
K: I do, sir, I just.... Hang on.\\
B: Keel?\\
K: Picking up movement near Charlie ridge. I'm sure it's nothing, but I'm going to-[static]"''
-> ''"Transcript of last perimeter contact pre-engagement, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
B: KEEL, [=LCpl=]: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
R: BRIGHTON, Sgt: Dammit, Keel.\\
K: Sorry, Sarge. Ahem! Scheduled status report, 14 hundred hours.\\
B: Better. What've you got to report?\\
K: Jack shit, sir!\\
B: [audible sigh]\\
K: Seriously, Sarge. Guards are guarding, miners are mining, machines are, uh, machining. This assignment's like desk duty, only dustier.\\
B: You still need to take this seriously.\\
K: I do, sir, I just.... Hang on.\\
B: Keel?\\
K: Picking up movement near Charlie ridge. I'm sure it's nothing, but I'm going to-[static]"''
to:
->
B: KEEL, [=LCpl=]: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
R: BRIGHTON, Sgt: Dammit, Keel.\\
K: Sorry, Sarge. Ahem! Scheduled status report, 14 hundred hours.\\
B: Better. What've you got to report?\\
K: Jack shit, sir!\\
B: [audible sigh]\\
K: Seriously, Sarge. Guards are guarding, miners are mining, machines are,
B: You still need
K:
B: Keel?\\
K: Picking up movement near Charlie ridge. I'm sure it's nothing,
Changed line(s) 324,333 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Partial transcript of post-engagement field report, S&R Unit Bravo, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find any survivors. Nothing here's even shaped like a human... Wait a sec.\\
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I think this was Lance Corporal Keel! What... What were they shooting at us, chainsaws?!\\
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Head and upper spine seem largely intact. May be viable for Project Osiris. Wrap him up and bring him home, Tagawa."''
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find any survivors. Nothing here's even shaped like a human... Wait a sec.\\
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I think this was Lance Corporal Keel! What... What were they shooting at us, chainsaws?!\\
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Head and upper spine seem largely intact. May be viable for Project Osiris. Wrap him up and bring him home, Tagawa."''
to:
-> ''"Partial transcript of post-engagement field report, S&R Unit Bravo, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find“Wasn’t supposed to be any survivors. Nothing here's even shaped like a human... Wait a sec.\\
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I think thisbig deal. A few miners went missing on Tau Ceti F, and Corporate wanted an exec onsite for the investigation. I dropped her off and the Toki Maru proceeded on our resupply run. But then that message. She said something was Lance Corporal Keel! What... What were they shooting at us, chainsaws?!\\
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Headoff with the central operations AI, and upper spine seem largely intact. May be viable for Project Osiris. Wrap him up then there was some really strange noise on the line. Then the transmission cut off. Not a distress call, but… we’re going back, just to make sure everything’s okay. Probably I’ll surprise her with my new journal and bring him home, Tagawa."''she’ll laugh about my overreaction.”
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I think this
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Head
Changed line(s) 336,341 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Partial transcript of pre-op log 5, Project Osiris\\
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is this shit? I told them zero cranial damage, complete spinal cord.\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: They want to know what he saw.\\
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd have to use the altered progenitor cells recovered at the Terada site just to regrow his occipital-\\
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me to blow all my resources making sure everything's hooked up right. If he forgets how to eat or do long division, that's his problem."''
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is this shit? I told them zero cranial damage, complete spinal cord.\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: They want to know what he saw.\\
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd have to use the altered progenitor cells recovered at the Terada site just to regrow his occipital-\\
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me to blow all my resources making sure everything's hooked up right. If he forgets how to eat or do long division, that's his problem."''
to:
-> ''"Partial transcript of pre-op log 5, Project Osiris\\
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is“Oh God. Berserk mining unit slammed me into a wall right as I entered the command center. No idea how long I was out; head’s still splitting. Firefight down the hall’s making it worse. Not sure whether this shit? I told them zero cranial damage, complete spinal cord.\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt:thing is picking up my voice through the noise. System defenses firing on everyone. Security team went ahead of me, trying to take out enough guns to access the AI nexus. They want to find out what it’s doing, why it’s gone berserk. I just need to know what he saw.\\
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd haveif she’s okay in there. I need her to use the altered progenitor cells recovered at the Terada site just to regrow his occipital-\\
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me to blow all my resources making sure everything's hooked up right. If he forgets how to eat or do long division, that's his problem."''be okay in there.”
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is
R. MUGABI, Sgt:
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd have
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me to blow all my resources making sure everything's hooked up right. If he forgets how to eat or do long division, that's his problem."''
Changed line(s) 344,346 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and I couldn't tell them a thing. Damn Spikers got me center mass before I even saw them coming. They don't think it's as funny as I do.\\
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves like it should, but nothing feels right when I touch it. Figure I should be a lot more horrified; maybe this circuitry in my head's keeping my emotions in check. I should be pissed about that, too, shouldn't I?"''
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and I couldn't tell them a thing. Damn Spikers got me center mass before I even saw them coming. They don't think it's as funny as I do.\\
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves like it should, but nothing feels right when I touch it. Figure I should be a lot more horrified; maybe this circuitry in my head's keeping my emotions in check. I should be pissed about that, too, shouldn't I?"''
to:
-> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and I couldn't tell them a thing. Damn Spikers got me center mass before I even saw them coming. They don't think it's as funny as I do.\\
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves like it should, but nothing feels right when I touch it. Figure“They should have left me. I should be a lot more horrified; maybe this circuitry in my head's keeping my emotions in check. have died beside her. Most of the security team’s dead. The mining bots … drills, clamps, lasers. All reprogrammed to kill, all with “TETSUO CORP” labels on them. They’re playing with us. Unit F1-E blocks exits, herding survivors. Unit U21-A took the commander’s arm, then made him run before it finished the job. Whatever happened to the central AI, it’s made them sadistic somehow. Unit C17-U. That’s the one that cold-cocked me before killing Akiko. If it hadn’t, I should be pissed about that, too, shouldn't I?"''might’ve… I need to find it. It needs to die.”
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and I couldn't tell them a thing. Damn Spikers got me center mass before I even saw them coming. They don't think it's as funny as I do.\\
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves like it should, but nothing feels right when I touch it. Figure
Changed line(s) 349,352 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Transcript recorded from neutral interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Back in basic. Just what I always wanted. Guess they're right though; we've got to know what this new body can do.\\
Apparently, two of those things it can do are "run faster than the guys trying to run away" and "hit a lot harder than I used to." I'll have to stop by the infirmary later and apologize, if they're conscious.\\
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed to register stimuli different than they used to? I need to make some requests."''
Back in basic. Just what I always wanted. Guess they're right though; we've got to know what this new body can do.\\
Apparently, two of those things it can do are "run faster than the guys trying to run away" and "hit a lot harder than I used to." I'll have to stop by the infirmary later and apologize, if they're conscious.\\
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed to register stimuli different than they used to? I need to make some requests."''
to:
-> ''"Transcript “Haven’t recorded from neutral interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Backin basic. Just what weeks. A lot’s happened. I always wanted. Guess they're right though; we've got to know what found C17-U, and it nearly killed me. Funny, the Tetsuo MedTech logo was the first thing I saw when I came to. Some bad laser wounds, lost an eye. Finally out of the hospital, but I was useless during the start of this new body can do.\\
Apparently, two of those thingswar. And it can do are "run faster than is a war now. They’re moving out, and spreading the guys trying to run away" and "hit a lot harder than I used to." I'll have to stop by the infirmary later and apologize, if they're conscious.\\
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed to register stimuli different thanAI’s madness as they used to? I need to make some requests."''go. We’ve nearly lost the colony already. We’ve isolated our networks, but all it takes is one signal and another machine’s talking about the “gateway” and the “source” while it murders us.”
Back
Apparently, two of those things
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed to register stimuli different than
Changed line(s) 355,357 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, I should've gotten my ass shot off years ago.\\
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti and sauce, the works. Only thing they can't manage is Memaw's Salty Honey Pie. Nothing I try tastes like the real thing. Maybe they can also figure out what's wrong with my eyes. Had a couple moments after training where I suddenly didn't see the field anymore. Saw... well, somewhere else. Ugly. I hope the process isn't going bad on me."''
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, I should've gotten my ass shot off years ago.\\
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti and sauce, the works. Only thing they can't manage is Memaw's Salty Honey Pie. Nothing I try tastes like the real thing. Maybe they can also figure out what's wrong with my eyes. Had a couple moments after training where I suddenly didn't see the field anymore. Saw... well, somewhere else. Ugly. I hope the process isn't going bad on me."''
to:
-> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, I should've gotten my ass shot off years ago.\\
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti and sauce, the works. Only thing they can't manage is Memaw's Salty Honey Pie. Nothing I try tastes like the real thing. Maybe they can also figure out what's wrong with my eyes. Had a couple moments after training where I suddenly didn't see the field anymore. Saw... well, somewhere else. Ugly. I hope the process isn't“Corporate tried to call me back to Earth, to take Akiko’s place. Not going to happen. Too much to do out here. Feel bad on me."''for refusing them, but this has to be done. The ship’s mine now. Disabled all the safety features, disabled the networks, dropped off the few who didn’t want to go along with this. Rechristened her the Taka Maru, armed her with dozens of scavenged weapons and batteries. We’re part of the resistance fleet now. Military wants to “contain.” No. We’re not stopping until these psychotic machines are wiped out.”
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, I should've gotten my ass shot off years ago.\\
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti and sauce, the works. Only thing they can't manage is Memaw's Salty Honey Pie. Nothing I try tastes like the real thing. Maybe they can also figure out what's wrong with my eyes. Had a couple moments after training where I suddenly didn't see the field anymore. Saw... well, somewhere else. Ugly. I hope the process isn't
Changed line(s) 360,363 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
I thought I was okay. Those visions, the spells... they only ever hit after practice or deployment. I've engaged the Klesk half a dozen times without trouble. But today...\\
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. But there is no sun. And screams from nowhere, constant. Lost almost half an hour, and almost forty men. Don't know how I survived.\\
I need to know what's wrong with me, or I'm no good to anyone."''
I thought I was okay. Those visions, the spells... they only ever hit after practice or deployment. I've engaged the Klesk half a dozen times without trouble. But today...\\
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. But there is no sun. And screams from nowhere, constant. Lost almost half an hour, and almost forty men. Don't know how I survived.\\
I need to know what's wrong with me, or I'm no good to anyone."''
to:
-> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
“I keep thinking about the first time I thought lived aboard a ship. Papa told stories about growing up on Earth. It sounded awful when I was okay. Those visions, a kid. All that open space? A home you couldn’t just fly somewhere else when you wanted? That was no life! I learned better, obviously. Akiko and I spent so much time aboard the spells... they only ever hit after practice or deployment. I've engaged the Klesk half a dozen times without trouble. But today...\\
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. Butship, but it was never home. We always meant to return to Earth, but there is no sun. And screams from nowhere, constant. Lost almost half an hour, and almost forty men. Don't were always so many projects. Now home’s a ship again. Probably my last. Don’t know how I survived.\\
I needto know what's wrong with me, or I'm no good to anyone."''make a new one without her.”
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. But
I need
Changed line(s) 366,377 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Transcript of partial testing procedure, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]: I told them, I told them!\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: So is the problem in the cortical interface? It is, isn't it?\\
Mu: We... can't tell. The system hasn't recorded any of these fugues he reported.\\
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All we get is fragmented data.\\
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrong we can detect. Anywhere.\\
Ma: Shit. Take him off active duty until we can figure this out. I told them..."''
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]: I told them, I told them!\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: So is the problem in the cortical interface? It is, isn't it?\\
Mu: We... can't tell. The system hasn't recorded any of these fugues he reported.\\
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All we get is fragmented data.\\
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrong we can detect. Anywhere.\\
Ma: Shit. Take him off active duty until we can figure this out. I told them..."''
to:
-> ''"Transcript of partial testing procedure, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]:“I have friends at Corporate who understand why I have to do this. They finally got into the sealed records, found out what the Board never told them, I told them!\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: Sothe public. The madness didn’t start with the AI, It was brought there, from a newly excavated cavern. Carried in the systems of C17, the same damn mining unit that almost killed me. The Resistance calls it a suicide run. Maybe they’re right. Tau Ceti F is the problem in the cortical interface? It is, isn't it?\\
Mu: We... can't tell. The system hasn't recorded anyliteral heart of these fugues he reported.\\
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All wemachine territory. But I have to get is fragmented data.\\
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrongthere. If we see how it started, maybe we can detect. Anywhere.\\
Ma: Shit. Take him off active duty until we can figure this out. I told them..."''stop it.”
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]:
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: So
Mu: We... can't tell. The system hasn't recorded any
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All we
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrong
Ma: Shit. Take him off active duty until we can figure this out. I told them..."''
Changed line(s) 380,385 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Final transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Been off active duty for weeks. Spells getting worse. The place I see is... horrible.\\
It's a hallucination, something about my trauma or what they've done to me. Except what if it's not? Last couple times, it felt like it was physically tugging at me.\\
If the circuits can't record it, maybe they're keeping me from blocking it out. So I'm shutting down the system. Let my brain handle it alone, untethered. Then I'll know.\\
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown in three... two...\\
One."''
Been off active duty for weeks. Spells getting worse. The place I see is... horrible.\\
It's a hallucination, something about my trauma or what they've done to me. Except what if it's not? Last couple times, it felt like it was physically tugging at me.\\
If the circuits can't record it, maybe they're keeping me from blocking it out. So I'm shutting down the system. Let my brain handle it alone, untethered. Then I'll know.\\
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown in three... two...\\
One."''
to:
-> ''"Final transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Been off active duty“Ship went down under heavy fire. Rest of the crew killed along the way, and I’m not doing so great myself. Tired of seeing the Tetsuo name—our name—on all this death. Figured out how to salvage bots and equipment to make auto-turrets. At least they’ve kept me alive so far. I’ve found the cavern, or at least I assume that’s the green glow and gibberish further down the tunnel. I don’t know what’s in there, if that machine’s waiting for weeks. Spells getting worse. The place I see is... horrible.\\
It's a hallucination,me, or something about my trauma or what they've done much worse. Now’s as good a time as any to me. Except what if it's not? Last couple times, it felt like it was physically tugging at me.\\
If the circuits can't record it, maybe they're keeping me from blocking itfind out. So I'm shutting down the system. Let my brain handle it alone, untethered. Then I'll know.\\
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown in three... two...\\
One."''Love you, Aki.”
Been off active duty
It's a hallucination,
If the circuits can't record it, maybe they're keeping me from blocking it
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown in three... two...\\
One."''
Changed line(s) 388 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A slightly damaged slice of Memaw's Salty Honey Pie that Keel stores in a small vacuum chamber within his cybernetics. He intends to save it for “a really bad day.”"''
to:
-> ''"A slightly damaged slice of Memaw's Salty Honey Pie that Keel stores A large hex nut on a necklace chain. When Eisen proposed to Akiko in their ship’s engine room, the hex nut served as a small vacuum chamber within makeshift ring. He later recovered it from her body and wears it around his cybernetics. He intends to save it for “a really bad day.”"''neck.
Changed line(s) 392,395 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Nyx]]
-> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open A: Why in the name of all the heavens am I being called up again so damn soon? I just got back from an off-world intel run a week ago! Whatever's come up, surely one of the others in Wraith Unit can handle it.\\
\\
Gods damn it all. No surprise the summons is coded “urgent.” Everything Wraith Unit does is urgent. I'm more puzzled by the “Greiss” code-prefix. We drove them off years ago. An error, maybe? I swear, if I report all the way back to the Conclave over a comm glitch...."''
-> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open A: Why in the name of all the heavens am I being called up again so damn soon? I just got back from an off-world intel run a week ago! Whatever's come up, surely one of the others in Wraith Unit can handle it.\\
\\
Gods damn it all. No surprise the summons is coded “urgent.” Everything Wraith Unit does is urgent. I'm more puzzled by the “Greiss” code-prefix. We drove them off years ago. An error, maybe? I swear, if I report all the way back to the Conclave over a comm glitch...."''
to:
->
\\
Gods damn it all. No surprise
When the
Changed line(s) 398,400 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: I can't believe it. I've been excused for a recess, and I'm just as happy to be out of there. Gives me time to wrap my head around it. The Orb. One of the Greiss marauders has somehow breached the Fathom Orb.\\
\\
That's not supposed to be possible. The power of the Orb itself is supposed to make it impossible, to say nothing of the shrine's own security. By all that's holy, if the Greiss interfere with the Ghostwalk—or worse, claim the power for their own? We're dead. It's the only defense we have."''
\\
That's not supposed to be possible. The power of the Orb itself is supposed to make it impossible, to say nothing of the shrine's own security. By all that's holy, if the Greiss interfere with the Ghostwalk—or worse, claim the power for their own? We're dead. It's the only defense we have."''
to:
-> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: I can't believe it. I've been excused for a recess, and I'm just as happy to be out of there. Gives me time to wrap my head around it. ''"From The Orb. One Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“And lo, the terrible power already nascent in the one named Galena, in honor of theGreiss marauders has somehow breached golden champion of old. Many would stumble on the Fathom Orb.\\
\\
That'spath to serve Volkerh. Many brutally die in the quest to know the Whispering Walker. But not supposed to be possible. The power this one. Not Galena! Even at an age where most played idly, unaware of the Orb itself is supposed storied agonies to make it impossible, to say nothing of the shrine's own security. By all that's holy, if the Greiss interfere come, her eyes struck fear in others! Her words rang with authority! And when the Ghostwalk—or worse, claim time came for Galena to tread the power for their own? We're dead. It's the only defense we have."''Path of Pain, even her attendants knelt, transfixed.”"''
“And lo, the terrible power already nascent in the one named Galena, in honor of the
\\
That's
Changed line(s) 403,405 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: They're still debating. Even after summoning me, knowing what's at stake, half of those political cowards don't want to send me in. Old laws, holy doctrine, blah, blah, blah. It's a heap of mog-shit. Unless they want a Ghostwalking enemy bent on conquest. I'm sure their “highest laws” will bring them great comfort while we're all being slaughtered.\\
\\
Done with this. I'm going back in to tell the Priors I am heading for the Orb. They're welcome to stop me. Of course, if they could try to stop me, they wouldn't need me."''
\\
Done with this. I'm going back in to tell the Priors I am heading for the Orb. They're welcome to stop me. Of course, if they could try to stop me, they wouldn't need me."''
to:
-> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: They're still debating. Even after summoning me, knowing what's at stake, half ''"The Seventh Book of those political cowards don't want to send me in. the Old laws, holy doctrine, blah, blah, blah. It's a heap Kingdom made it clear what would be required of mog-shit. Unless they want her. With her genuflecting, hooded attendants receding, this mortal girl—still a Ghostwalking enemy bent on conquest. I'm sure their “highest laws” will bring them great comfort while we're all being slaughtered.\\
\\
Done withstripling!—was sent away to face He Who Walks in Blood, banished to the hissing realms where unspeakable things await any who stray from the cohort that protects them. And yet, Galena did not question this. I'm going back in Alone, she walked. Alone, and with no runes to tell protect her! She did not yet know that only by surviving would the Priors I am heading for the Orb. They're welcome black magic be revealed and granted to stop me. Of course, if they could try to stop me, they wouldn't need me.her at last."''
\\
Done with
Changed line(s) 408,410 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open F: I had never seen the Fathom Shrine in person before. It's magnificent—or would be if it weren't for the weapon damage and blood spatter.\\
\\
No idea what could have taken down the defenses so readily; whatever it was didn't leave a trace. Some of the automated sensors have particle-beam scoring. None were hit straight on. Somehow, the Greiss knew their locations and approached from outside their angles of detection. Other sensors look almost to have been ... crushed. It's no weapon signature I'm familiar with. Maybe more evidence further in."''
\\
No idea what could have taken down the defenses so readily; whatever it was didn't leave a trace. Some of the automated sensors have particle-beam scoring. None were hit straight on. Somehow, the Greiss knew their locations and approached from outside their angles of detection. Other sensors look almost to have been ... crushed. It's no weapon signature I'm familiar with. Maybe more evidence further in."''
to:
-> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open F: I had never seen the Fathom Shrine in person before. It's magnificent—or would be if it weren't for the weapon damage and blood spatter.\\
\\
No idea what could have taken down the defenses so readily; whatever it was didn't leave a trace. Some''"And which of the automated sensors have particle-beam scoring. None were hit straight on. Somehow, scenes from the Greiss knew Unholy Tapestry would become Galena's legend? Perhaps when she traversed the Swamp of the Never-Born, where fetal abominations devour each other endlessly. Or that when battling the Molten One, she did not retreat, even when the One melted into two, then three, enshrouding her in smoke and ash. Even with those terrors conquered, Galena—bloodied but unbowed—had yet to face the Shriek-Tutors of K'lor! Yet when she called on her own dark might, Galena was their locations and approached equal, striking fear into those from outside their angles of detection. Other sensors look almost to have been ... crushed. It's no weapon signature I'm familiar with. Maybe more evidence further in."''whom fear is born!"''
\\
No idea what could have taken down the defenses so readily; whatever it was didn't leave a trace. Some
Changed line(s) 413,415 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: This makes no sense. There's more than enough ruin, soot, and particulate to track the intruder. And that's the problem. I'm finding evidence of only one intruder. One set of prints. One energy signature. There is no way a single Greiss could penetrate the shrine's defenses, and yet... If I didn't know better, I'd wonder if they had already somehow accessed the Ghostwalk.\\
\\
That peculiar crush damage, though—it doesn't seem to come from the invader's path. That alone suggests other agencies. Wishing I hadn't been too rushed to wait for more Wraith Unit backup."''
\\
That peculiar crush damage, though—it doesn't seem to come from the invader's path. That alone suggests other agencies. Wishing I hadn't been too rushed to wait for more Wraith Unit backup."''
to:
-> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: This makes no sense. There's more than enough ruin, soot, ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“I, Myong, greeted her in the name of the Gaunt Shepherd when she returned. None believed she would return alive! But she walked into the Circle, the flames turning brilliant andparticulate smoky as she approached. And I went to track Galena, her body lashed with deep wounds that should have drained her of blood. No part of her skin untouched. And as her eyes looked to me, I saw that the intruder. girl we had attended was no longer there. And that's the problem. I'm finding evidence I whispered a reverent prayer of only one intruder. One set of prints. One energy signature. There is no way a single Greiss could penetrate the shrine's defenses, and yet... If I didn't know better, I'd wonder if they had already somehow accessed the Ghostwalk.\\
\\
That peculiar crush damage, though—it doesn't seemthanks to come from the invader's path. That alone suggests other agencies. Wishing I hadn't been too rushed to wait for more Wraith Unit backup."''Volkerh.”"''
“I, Myong, greeted her in the name of the Gaunt Shepherd when she returned. None believed she would return alive! But she walked into the Circle, the flames turning brilliant and
\\
That peculiar crush damage, though—it doesn't seem
Changed line(s) 418,422 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"1301-F Mission Log, personal addendum: Reached the inner chambers. The carvings ... most are abstract, but the figures stepping out of blocks and columns are clearly Ghostwalkers. Probably the first.\\
\\
But there's this recurring image: a sphere with wriggly emanations. I think it's the Fathom Orb, but I can't tell if it's emitting energy or tendrils. And the Ghostwalkers? They're ... facing it. As though they're not guarding it but guarding against it.\\
\\
I understand now why the Priors blindfolded us for the Ghostwalk initiation. I thought it was just pomp, but no. They couldn't let us see this."''
\\
But there's this recurring image: a sphere with wriggly emanations. I think it's the Fathom Orb, but I can't tell if it's emitting energy or tendrils. And the Ghostwalkers? They're ... facing it. As though they're not guarding it but guarding against it.\\
\\
I understand now why the Priors blindfolded us for the Ghostwalk initiation. I thought it was just pomp, but no. They couldn't let us see this."''
to:
-> ''"1301-F Mission Log, personal addendum: Reached ''"And when Galena came of age, her Summoning still to come, all her fearsome power had to be tamed. Her eyes revealed that she no longer clung to the inner chambers. The carvings ... most are abstract, but feeble morality of her birth-world—only to power, strength, brutal survival. Now she would be called by an Ichor Mage to learn the figures stepping out Lesson of blocks and columns are clearly Ghostwalkers. Probably Lessons. But all who saw her, frightened by her wild might, wondered: Could even a deathless Ichor Mage bring her power to heel? If not, what fate would He Who Walks in Blood choose for her? We could only wait as the first.\\
\\
But there's this recurring image: a sphere with wriggly emanations. I think it's the Fathom Orb, but I can't tell if it's emitting energy or tendrils. And the Ghostwalkers? They're ... facing it. As though they're not guarding it but guarding against it.\\
\\
I understand now why the Priors blindfolded us for the Ghostwalk initiation. I thought it was just pomp, but no. They couldn't let us see this.ink-ice formed in our throats."''
\\
But there's this recurring image: a sphere with wriggly emanations. I think it's the Fathom Orb, but I can't tell if it's emitting energy or tendrils. And the Ghostwalkers? They're ... facing it. As though they're not guarding it but guarding against it.\\
\\
I understand now why the Priors blindfolded us for the Ghostwalk initiation. I thought it was just pomp, but no. They couldn't let us see this.
Changed line(s) 425,427 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: Holy Ibramel, it's beautiful. The refraction, every color and none. Ghostpetals growing all over; I've never seen a real one before. And it sings to me.... I wonder if this is a defense, too. How many people meant to breach the Orb, and just got trapped here?\\
\\
Don't really know how to do this. It has to be a Ghostwalk, but I know it's not that easy. Have to hit just the right resonance. Still want to know how the damned Greiss did it. Really hope getting it wrong a few times doesn't kill me."''
\\
Don't really know how to do this. It has to be a Ghostwalk, but I know it's not that easy. Have to hit just the right resonance. Still want to know how the damned Greiss did it. Really hope getting it wrong a few times doesn't kill me."''
to:
-> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: Holy Ibramel, it's beautiful. ''"All the creatures of the Lambent Realm fell silent and motionless that day, awaiting the exquisite battle between master and acolyte. The refraction, every color Ash-Swimmers claimed the battle itself would be less a test than a demonstration of the Ichor Mage's dark prowess. But Galena had learned much, discarded much. Tears and none. Ghostpetals growing all over; I've never seen a real one before. And it sings smiles mattered not. Wounds counted for nothing. Fear had been banished. Now, there was merely this last challenge: to me.... I defeat the Mage. Could even the great Volkerh not be gripped, held by the horror and wonder if this is a defense, too. How many people meant to breach of the Orb, and just got trapped here?\\
\\
Don't really know howbattle to do this. It has to be a Ghostwalk, but I know it's not that easy. Have to hit just the right resonance. Still want to know how the damned Greiss did it. Really hope getting it wrong a few times doesn't kill me."''come?"''
\\
Don't really know how
Changed line(s) 430,434 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open G: Through. Don't know how long; lost track. I'll try to recapture what I....\\
\\
So much pain, like squeezing through broken glass. Images all around me, twisted, reflections in a shattered mirror. Reaching tendrils, gaping eyes, limbs and organs we don't have names for. Voices—Melem voices—begging for secrets, begging to know. Answers, not voices at all, but still answers, offering knowledge and power that turn the mind into more broken glass. And the cost, the cost....\\
\\
They live between, where we Ghostwalk. And every time we do, we open the door wider."''
\\
So much pain, like squeezing through broken glass. Images all around me, twisted, reflections in a shattered mirror. Reaching tendrils, gaping eyes, limbs and organs we don't have names for. Voices—Melem voices—begging for secrets, begging to know. Answers, not voices at all, but still answers, offering knowledge and power that turn the mind into more broken glass. And the cost, the cost....\\
\\
They live between, where we Ghostwalk. And every time we do, we open the door wider."''
to:
-> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open G: Through. Don't know how long; lost track. I'll try to recapture what I....\\
\\
So much pain, like squeezing through broken glass. Images all around me, twisted, reflections in a shattered mirror. Reaching tendrils, gaping eyes, limbs and organs we don't have names for. Voices—Melem voices—begging for secrets, begging to know. Answers, not''"The Ichor Mage lay still. Galena had won. Whispers came first, then chants, laughter, even screams. Let the Summoning begin!, as the Attendants' voices at all, but still answers, offering knowledge and also joined, until the cries became a roar that could be heard even to the Pool of Night. Galena then began the final journey: to stand alone before the shattering abyssal power that turn of Volkerh! Could she return alive? Could she return sane? So many others had walked the mind into more broken glass. And Path only to join the cost, creatures of the cost....\\
\\
They live between, where we Ghostwalk. And every time we do, we openpit, once powerful, now trapped in the door wider.agonizing slaughter-mire of the ancients."''
\\
So much pain, like squeezing through broken glass. Images all around me, twisted, reflections in a shattered mirror. Reaching tendrils, gaping eyes, limbs and organs we don't have names for. Voices—Melem voices—begging for secrets, begging to know. Answers, not
\\
They live between, where we Ghostwalk. And every time we do, we open
Changed line(s) 437,439 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"1301-G, Mission Log, cont.: I don't know where I am. Maybe the Greiss caused it to lead here. It's like a butcher's nightmare.\\
\\
Doesn't matter. I have to find him, stop him from gaining whatever he came for. And then I have to get back. I have to tell the Conclave what we bargained with, what the first Ghostwalkers guarded us against. That we're being watched through the Fathom Orb. That these horrors are getting closer to our reality. They won't believe me. They may even kill me. But I have to try. Gods help us all."''
\\
Doesn't matter. I have to find him, stop him from gaining whatever he came for. And then I have to get back. I have to tell the Conclave what we bargained with, what the first Ghostwalkers guarded us against. That we're being watched through the Fathom Orb. That these horrors are getting closer to our reality. They won't believe me. They may even kill me. But I have to try. Gods help us all."''
to:
-> ''"1301-G, Mission Log, cont.: I don't know where I am. Maybe ''"No one witnessed. No words were recorded. But the Greiss caused it to lead here. It's like a butcher's nightmare.\\
\\
Doesn't matter. I have to find him, stop himGaunt Shepherd himself awoke from gaining whatever he came for. And then I have to get back. I have to tell his slumber that night. Only visions, some might say. But the Conclave what we bargained with, what Shepherd saw that Volkerh had appeared—that the first Ghostwalkers guarded us against. tatters and claws of the Ineffable One had encloaked Galena! That we're being watched through she raised her weapon to taste the Fathom Orb. That these horrors are getting closer power of the ancient god, to our reality. They won't believe me. They may even kill me. But I have make her rise above all who would soon kneel in obeisance to try. Gods help us all."''her! At dreams' end, in this realm of secrets and scythe-blades, Galena had met the call, had been embraced by He Who Walks in Blood, and had become Volkerh's unholy paladin!"''
\\
Doesn't matter. I have to find him, stop him
Changed line(s) 442 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Ghostpetals, a translucent, semi-intangible plant that grows only near the Fathom Orb, permanently phased by its energy. A reminder of home, and what's at stake."''
to:
-> ''"Ghostpetals, a translucent, semi-intangible plant that grows ''"A human child's ragdoll, scorched and threadbare, with only near blackened scratches for eyes. Treated by some as a sacred relic, the Fathom Orb, permanently phased by its energy. A reminder doll must be kept far away from Galena, who wants to obliterate any trace of home, and what's at stake.connection to her birth-world."''
Changed line(s) 446,447 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Ranger]]
-> ''"Not much of a writer. But I have to get some things down on paper before my brain turns to mush. Some of the important stuff is already gone. Can't remember what my own goddamn name is, for instance. It's gotta be something about this place. It messes up my thoughts. The only time I can focus is when I'm fighting. As soon as the fighting stops, it's like a fog rolls into my head. But I'll get it written down. I have to, for Annie and the kids. If I forgot them, I'll never find a way out of this hellhole."''
-> ''"Not much of a writer. But I have to get some things down on paper before my brain turns to mush. Some of the important stuff is already gone. Can't remember what my own goddamn name is, for instance. It's gotta be something about this place. It messes up my thoughts. The only time I can focus is when I'm fighting. As soon as the fighting stops, it's like a fog rolls into my head. But I'll get it written down. I have to, for Annie and the kids. If I forgot them, I'll never find a way out of this hellhole."''
to:
->
B: KEEL, [=LCpl=]: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
R: BRIGHTON, Sgt: Dammit, Keel.\\
K: Sorry, Sarge. Ahem! Scheduled status report, 14 hundred hours.\\
B: Better. What've you got to
K: Jack shit, sir!\\
B: [audible sigh]\\
K: Seriously, Sarge. Guards are guarding, miners are mining, machines are, uh, machining. This assignment's like desk duty, only dustier.\\
B: You still need to
K: I do, sir, I just.... Hang on.\\
B: Keel?\\
K: Picking up
Changed line(s) 450 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Seems like a hundred years since I got that call at 0400. I hauled my ass to the Slipgate Complex, but the shit had already hit the fan. Marines bleeding from their eyes, some kind of half-done mods in their skin, all of them trying to kill me. Even a couple guys I knew. Commander was AWOL. The place was a maze. It was like the worst dream I'd ever had. But I know how to follow orders. I just had to find "Quake" and kill it. No time to think about what the hell I was seeing."''
to:
-> ''"Seems ''"Partial transcript of post-engagement field report, S&R Unit Bravo, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find any survivors. Nothing here's even shaped like ahundred years since I got that call at 0400. I hauled my ass to the Slipgate Complex, but the shit had already hit the fan. Marines bleeding from their eyes, some kind of half-done mods in their skin, all of them trying to kill me. Even human... Wait a couple guys I knew. Commander was AWOL. The place was a maze. It was like the worst dream I'd ever had. But I know how to follow orders. I just had to find "Quake" and kill it. No time to sec.\\
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I thinkabout what the hell I this was seeing.Lance Corporal Keel! What... What were they shooting at us, chainsaws?!\\
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Head and upper spine seem largely intact. May be viable for Project Osiris. Wrap him up and bring him home, Tagawa."''
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find any survivors. Nothing here's even shaped like a
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I think
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Head and upper spine seem largely intact. May be viable for Project Osiris. Wrap him up and bring him home, Tagawa."''
Changed line(s) 453 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"They didn't tell me much about the Slipgate. They had hired some creepy egghead to build it in the underground levels - Gilman, I think his name was. But what else was he doing down there? Why was the facility laid out like a death trap? When I used the first Slipgate, I got zapped to somewhere else, but it looked the same. Had they already gone through and built a base on the other side? What about those psycho Marines, the poor bastards? Who did that to them? Was it Quake, or was it Gilman?"''
to:
-> ''"They didn't tell me much about the Slipgate. ''"Partial transcript of pre-op log 5, Project Osiris\\
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is this shit? I told them zero cranial damage, complete spinal cord.\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: Theyhad hired some creepy egghead want to build it in the underground levels - Gilman, I think his name was. But know what else was he doing down there? Why was saw.\\
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd have to use thefacility laid out like a death trap? When I used altered progenitor cells recovered at the first Slipgate, I got zapped Terada site just to somewhere else, but it looked the same. Had they already gone through and built a base on the other side? What about those psycho Marines, the poor bastards? Who did that regrow his occipital-\\
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me tothem? Was it Quake, blow all my resources making sure everything's hooked up right. If he forgets how to eat or was it Gilman?"''do long division, that's his problem."''
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is this shit? I told them zero cranial damage, complete spinal cord.\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: They
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd have to use the
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me to
Changed line(s) 456 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Doesn't make any sense. I was fighting for my life as soon as I got there, and then things just kept getting darker and weirder. There were other Slipgates, and I went through them. Nowhere else to go. No idea where they were leading to. I just shot at anything that moved, and I've been shooting ever since. Feels like the night terrors I got after Vietnam. Maybe the whole thing really is just a bad nightmare. What else would explain any of it? Somebody wake me up. My wife and kids need me."''
to:
-> ''"Doesn't make any sense. I was fighting for my life as soon as I got there, and then things just kept getting darker and weirder. There were other Slipgates, ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and Iwent through them. Nowhere else to go. No idea where they were leading to. couldn't tell them a thing. Damn Spikers got me center mass before I just shot at anything that moved, and I've been shooting ever since. Feels even saw them coming. They don't think it's as funny as I do.\\
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves likethe night terrors it should, but nothing feels right when I got after Vietnam. Maybe the whole thing really is just touch it. Figure I should be a bad nightmare. What else would explain any of it? Somebody wake me up. My wife and kids need me."''lot more horrified; maybe this circuitry in my head's keeping my emotions in check. I should be pissed about that, too, shouldn't I?"''
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and I
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves like
Changed line(s) 459 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Those runes I found. Every time I found one, my head flooded with stuff I wasn't supposed to know. Stuff no one should know. That's how I learned what Quake was: Shub-Ngurath. A pile of letters for a pile of tentacles. But those Slipgates led me to all four runes. Did someone or something want me to find them? Without them I never would've gotten to that squirming heap. Never would've found the Orb I used to kill her. The game-winning pass. I thought for sure I'd get to go home after that. No such luck."''
to:
-> ''"Those runes I found. Every time I found one, my head flooded with stuff I wasn't supposed to know. Stuff no one should know. That's how I learned ''"Transcript recorded from neutral interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Back in basic. Just whatQuake was: Shub-Ngurath. A pile I always wanted. Guess they're right though; we've got to know what this new body can do.\\
Apparently, two ofletters for a pile of tentacles. But those Slipgates led me to all four runes. Did someone or something want me to find them? Without them I never would've gotten to that squirming heap. Never would've found things it can do are "run faster than the Orb guys trying to run away" and "hit a lot harder than I used to." I'll have to kill her. The game-winning pass. I thought for sure I'd get stop by the infirmary later and apologize, if they're conscious.\\
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed togo home after that. No such luck.register stimuli different than they used to? I need to make some requests."''
Back in basic. Just what
Apparently, two of
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed to
Changed line(s) 462 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"I've had this damn Orb ever since. Not that different from a football, except I get to play QB and running back at the same time. And nothing beats catching your own pass and killing some bad guy in the process. Sometimes I call out plays in my head during fights. Helps me keep the memories I left. Miskatonic. The Fightin' Badgers. I was pretty good back in the day Not good enough to go pro, but enough to be the hometown hero a couple of times. Annie tells me I was clueless. She's probably right. She usually is."''
to:
-> ''"I've had this damn Orb ever since. Not that different ''"Transcript recorded from a football, except neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, Iget to play QB should've gotten my ass shot off years ago.\\
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti andrunning back at sauce, the same time. And nothing beats catching your own pass and killing some bad guy in works. Only thing they can't manage is Memaw's Salty Honey Pie. Nothing I try tastes like the process. Sometimes I call real thing. Maybe they can also figure out plays in what's wrong with my head during fights. Helps me keep the memories I left. Miskatonic. The Fightin' Badgers. I was pretty good back in the day Not good enough to go pro, but enough to be the hometown hero eyes. Had a couple of times. Annie tells me moments after training where I was clueless. She's probably right. She usually is.suddenly didn't see the field anymore. Saw... well, somewhere else. Ugly. I hope the process isn't going bad on me."''
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, I
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti and
Changed line(s) 465 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Need to stay sane, or whatever passes for sane here. Gotta be careful remembering Annie. Don't want to turn her into some story I tell myself. So I try to remember the bad parts, too. How mad she was when I enlisted, how low she got after K was born. But damn I miss her. Everybody should have someone who looks at them the way she looks at me. We've always made it through the rough times. I hope we'll make it through this, too. I hope she can forgive me for being gone so long."''
to:
-> ''"Need to stay sane, ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
I thought I was okay. Those visions, the spells... they only ever hit after practice orwhatever passes for sane here. Gotta be careful remembering Annie. deployment. I've engaged the Klesk half a dozen times without trouble. But today...\\
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. But there is no sun. And screams from nowhere, constant. Lost almost half an hour, and almost forty men. Don'twant to turn her into some story I tell myself. So I try to remember the bad parts, too. How mad she was when I enlisted, know how low she got after K was born. But damn I miss her. Everybody should have someone who looks at them the way she looks at me. We've always made it through the rough times. survived.\\
Ihope we'll make it through this, too. I hope she can forgive me for being gone so long.need to know what's wrong with me, or I'm no good to anyone."''
I thought I was okay. Those visions, the spells... they only ever hit after practice or
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. But there is no sun. And screams from nowhere, constant. Lost almost half an hour, and almost forty men. Don't
I
Changed line(s) 468 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"One of the worst things about losing my mind in here: I can't remember my kids' names. I call them J and K now. Our firstborn was a girl. Tough as nails. When she busted her arm on the jungle gym, she tried to comfort her mom on the way to the ER. I cried at her graduation. Annie had fun with that. A couple years later J arrived. He had me figured out in no time. So smart that kid. I haven't gotten a chance to tell him how proud I am of him. But I will, goddamnit."''
to:
-> ''"One ''"Transcript of partial testing procedure, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]: I told them, I told them!\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: So is theworst things about losing my mind problem in here: I the cortical interface? It is, isn't it?\\
Mu: We... can'tremember my kids' names. I call them J and K now. Our firstborn was a girl. Tough as nails. When she busted her arm on the jungle gym, she tried to comfort her mom on the way to the ER. I cried at her graduation. Annie had fun with that. A couple years later J arrived. He had me figured out in no time. So smart that kid. I haven't gotten a chance to tell tell. The system hasn't recorded any of these fugues he reported.\\
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All we get is fragmented data.\\
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrong we can detect. Anywhere.\\
Ma: Shit. Take himhow proud off active duty until we can figure this out. I am of him. But I will, goddamnit.told them..."''
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]: I told them, I told them!\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: So is the
Mu: We... can't
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All we get is fragmented data.\\
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrong we can detect. Anywhere.\\
Ma: Shit. Take him
Changed line(s) 471 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"I used to try to keep track of time here, but it's no use. The sky makes no sense. Some places seem to have day and night but most don't. Feels like years, but I don't feel any older. When I manage to sleep, I can't tell whether it's for minutes, hours, or days. Maybe no time has passed at all back home. I'll get out of here and crawl back into bed with my wife. She'll let me sleep in. I'll talk her into making me pancakes and bacon in the morning. That's the way it's gonna go."''
to:
-> ''"I used ''"Final transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Been off active duty for weeks. Spells getting worse. The place I see is... horrible.\\
It's a hallucination, something about my trauma or what they've done totry to keep track of time here, but me. Except what if it's no use. The sky makes no sense. Some places seem to have day and night but most don't. Feels not? Last couple times, it felt like years, but I don't feel any older. When I manage to sleep, I it was physically tugging at me.\\
If the circuits can'ttell whether it's for minutes, hours, or days. Maybe no time has passed at all back home. record it, maybe they're keeping me from blocking it out. So I'm shutting down the system. Let my brain handle it alone, untethered. Then I'll get out of here and crawl back into bed with my wife. She'll let me sleep in. I'll talk her into making me pancakes and bacon know.\\
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown inthe morning. That's the way it's gonna go.three... two...\\
One."''
Been off active duty for weeks. Spells getting worse. The place I see is... horrible.\\
It's a hallucination, something about my trauma or what they've done to
If the circuits can't
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown in
One."''
Changed line(s) 474 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A crumpled, thirty-year-old family photograph is Ranger's most prized possession and his only tangible link to life before Operation Counterstrike. A faded ballpoint scribble on the back reads, “Haverhill - Beach St - 1978.” Ranger keeps the photo between layers of his armored boot to ensure that no harm comes to it."''
to:
-> ''"A crumpled, thirty-year-old family photograph is Ranger's most prized possession and his only tangible link to life before Operation Counterstrike. A faded ballpoint scribble on the back reads, “Haverhill - Beach St - 1978.” Ranger keeps the photo between layers slightly damaged slice of his armored boot to ensure Memaw's Salty Honey Pie that no harm comes Keel stores in a small vacuum chamber within his cybernetics. He intends to it."''save it for “a really bad day.”"''
Changed line(s) 478,479 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Scalebearer]]
-> ''"The Uurd have fallen. I leave behind a garrison and military governor to shape their future as another cog in the Greiss war machine. The Drikt Sector campaign nears its end; this campaign may be my last. Perhaps the time has come to return to the Greiss Dominion, to consolidate my conquests and rule rather than expand, to cement my position in the Empire. But I've time yet to consider. We have one more world ahead of us, though it should yield even more readily than most. A soft, weak place controlled by a race called the Melem."''
-> ''"The Uurd have fallen. I leave behind a garrison and military governor to shape their future as another cog in the Greiss war machine. The Drikt Sector campaign nears its end; this campaign may be my last. Perhaps the time has come to return to the Greiss Dominion, to consolidate my conquests and rule rather than expand, to cement my position in the Empire. But I've time yet to consider. We have one more world ahead of us, though it should yield even more readily than most. A soft, weak place controlled by a race called the Melem."''
to:
->
\\
Gods damn it all. No surprise the summons is coded “urgent.” Everything Wraith Unit does is urgent. I'm more puzzled by the “Greiss” code-prefix. We drove them off years ago. An error, maybe? I swear, if I report all the way back to the
Changed line(s) 482 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"What sort of cowardly, fatherless egg-clutchers have my soldiers become? Has this campaign gone so easily for them that they have forgotten what it means to be Greiss? The Melem are nothing! Weaklings! Pacifists! Yet every report I receive is defeat after defeat, burbling some nonsense about “phantom enemies.” As if we'd never before dealt with stealth technology! I had planned to supervise from the command ship, but clearly I must take a personal hand. And I've not decided yet whether the Melem or my own incompetent officers shall suffer the worse for it!"''
to:
-> ''"What sort of cowardly, fatherless egg-clutchers have my soldiers become? Has this campaign gone so easily for them that they have forgotten what it means to be Greiss? The Melem are nothing! Weaklings! Pacifists! Yet every report ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: I receive is defeat after defeat, burbling some nonsense about “phantom enemies.” As if we'd never before dealt with stealth technology! I had planned to supervise from the command ship, but clearly I must take a personal hand. And can't believe it. I've been excused for a recess, and I'm just as happy to be out of there. Gives me time to wrap my head around it. The Orb. One of the Greiss marauders has somehow breached the Fathom Orb.\\
\\
That's notdecided yet whether supposed to be possible. The power of the Melem or my Orb itself is supposed to make it impossible, to say nothing of the shrine's own incompetent officers shall suffer security. By all that's holy, if the worse Greiss interfere with the Ghostwalk—or worse, claim the power for it!"''their own? We're dead. It's the only defense we have."''
\\
That's not
Changed line(s) 485 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"I stagger through the wreckage of our siege engines. I'm dizzy; one of those cursed phantom warriors passed through me, and my mind feels as though they left something within it. The smoke burns my eyes, but I welcome it. Without it I would be forced to stare at the incoming holographic message instead of only hearing it.\\
to:
-> ''"I stagger through the wreckage ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: They're still debating. Even after summoning me, knowing what's at stake, half of our siege engines. those political cowards don't want to send me in. Old laws, holy doctrine, blah, blah, blah. It's a heap of mog-shit. Unless they want a Ghostwalking enemy bent on conquest. I'm dizzy; one of those cursed phantom warriors passed through me, and my mind feels as though they left something within it. The smoke burns my eyes, but I welcome it. Without it I would be forced to stare at the incoming holographic message instead of only hearing it.sure their “highest laws” will bring them great comfort while we're all being slaughtered.\\
Changed line(s) 487 (click to see context) from:
The Dominion is taking my command from me. They call it reassignment, but I know exile for what it is. Shame. Disgrace. But I could bear that if I knew how it happened. Damn the Melem, I will know how!"''
to:
Changed line(s) 490 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"I must know. I will know.\\
to:
-> ''"I must know. ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open F: I will know.had never seen the Fathom Shrine in person before. It's magnificent—or would be if it weren't for the weapon damage and blood spatter.\\
Changed line(s) 492 (click to see context) from:
Been here ... Five days? Six? Too busy to keep track, to sleep. I've read every single report, every communique, from the Melem theater. I was wrong. Not stealth tech, no. So very far beyond mere stealth. Penetration of physical barriers, of defensive shields. Phase-shifting? Dimensional transfer? The Melem should not be so far advanced. This is far beyond anything the Greiss have created. How have they done it? I can take it all back, grind them into dust, spread the Dominion over a thousand more systems once I know!"''
to:
Changed line(s) 495 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"I have seen it! Fatigue finally took me, and in my dreams I have seen it! A great orb, made of plasma and power and the desires of they who dwell between worlds. The Melem did not create this wonder, they merely harnessed it. And I will have it!\\
to:
-> ''"I have seen it! Fatigue finally took me, ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: This makes no sense. There's more than enough ruin, soot, and in my dreams I have seen it! A great orb, made particulate to track the intruder. And that's the problem. I'm finding evidence of plasma only one intruder. One set of prints. One energy signature. There is no way a single Greiss could penetrate the shrine's defenses, and power and the desires of yet... If I didn't know better, I'd wonder if they who dwell between worlds. The Melem did not create this wonder, they merely harnessed it. And I will have it!\\had already somehow accessed the Ghostwalk.\\
Changed line(s) 497 (click to see context) from:
I have told Doctor Auvor and Commander Thrrim of my revelation, described it in detail, demanded they recreate it. They doubt. They mouth reassurances between nagging queries about my mind's wellbeing. As though I were some deluded invalid! But they will understand. They will succeed, and they will believe."''
to:
That peculiar crush damage, though—it doesn't seem to come from the invader's path. That alone suggests other agencies. Wishing I have told Doctor Auvor and Commander Thrrim of my revelation, described it in detail, demanded they recreate it. They doubt. They mouth reassurances between nagging queries about my mind's wellbeing. As though I were some deluded invalid! But they will understand. They will succeed, and they will believe.hadn't been too rushed to wait for more Wraith Unit backup."''
Changed line(s) 500 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Another failure. And these fools call themselves scientists! Yet, we were close. Even amid the sparks and strobes, I saw them through the walls of this reality: Things reaching for us, watching, wanting, needing. I saw them, and they saw me.\\
to:
-> ''"Another failure. And these fools call themselves scientists! Yet, we were close. Even amid ''"1301-F Mission Log, personal addendum: Reached the sparks inner chambers. The carvings ... most are abstract, but the figures stepping out of blocks and strobes, I saw them through columns are clearly Ghostwalkers. Probably the walls of this reality: Things reaching for us, watching, wanting, needing. I saw them, and they saw me.first.\\
Changed line(s) 502 (click to see context) from:
I wonder why Doctor Auvor and his people insist on lying to me. They claim the machine produced no effect at all, that they cannot even fathom the technology of the orb I've described. They tell me I cannot have seen anything out of the ordinary. Until I know the purpose of their deceptions, I pretend to demur."''
to:
But there's this recurring image: a sphere with wriggly emanations. I wonder think it's the Fathom Orb, but I can't tell if it's emitting energy or tendrils. And the Ghostwalkers? They're ... facing it. As though they're not guarding it but guarding against it.\\
\\
I understand now whyDoctor Auvor and his people insist on lying to me. the Priors blindfolded us for the Ghostwalk initiation. I thought it was just pomp, but no. They claim the machine produced no effect at all, that they cannot even fathom the technology of the orb I've described. They tell me I cannot have seen anything out of the ordinary. Until I know the purpose of their deceptions, I pretend to demur.couldn't let us see this."''
\\
I understand now why
Changed line(s) 505 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The dreams come nightly now. Black cities of impossible angles, built on foundations of broken universes. And within them dwell gods, their eyes turned in our direction. It is because the scientists' partial failures have linked me with the Melem's orb. I know it, and I know the wisdom and the power within that orb must belong to the Greiss. To me.\\
to:
-> ''"The dreams come nightly now. Black cities of impossible angles, built on foundations of broken universes. ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: Holy Ibramel, it's beautiful. The refraction, every color and none. Ghostpetals growing all over; I've never seen a real one before. And within them dwell gods, their eyes turned in our direction. It it sings to me.... I wonder if this is because a defense, too. How many people meant to breach the scientists' partial failures have linked me with the Melem's orb. I know it, Orb, and I know the wisdom and the power within that orb must belong to the Greiss. To me.\\just got trapped here?\\
Changed line(s) 507 (click to see context) from:
Auvor and Thrrim speak against me, tell the others I've gone mad with vengeful obsession. They want this power for themselves, but I am not concerned with their ambitions. The hidden gods know who is worthy."''
to:
Changed line(s) 510 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"As I anticipated, the gods within the Orb have made their preference known. I have awakened from my dreams to halls stained with blood and shredded flesh. A pity they slew my entire team, rather than merely the traitors Auvor and Thrrim, but no matter.\\
to:
-> ''"As I anticipated, the gods within the Orb have made their preference known. I have awakened from my dreams ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open G: Through. Don't know how long; lost track. I'll try to halls stained with blood and shredded flesh. A pity they slew my entire team, rather than merely the traitors Auvor and Thrrim, but no matter.recapture what I....\\
Changed line(s) 512 (click to see context) from:
I do find it curious that the hidden ones chose to use my weapons to cull them while I slumbered, but I will know their ways and reasons in time. To Melem lands, then, for in these new dreams I have seen the Opener of the Way. I know how to enter the Orb."''
to:
\\
They live between, where we Ghostwalk. And every time we do, we open the
Changed line(s) 515 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The guardians of the shrine fall before me. The wards fail in my presence. I see it now, greater even than I dreamt, flashing and phasing before me, and I wonder: Why accept the aid of gods when I might become one? Why settle for conquering star systems when I might sit upon the throne of a universe?\\
to:
-> ''"The guardians of ''"1301-G, Mission Log, cont.: I don't know where I am. Maybe the shrine fall before me. The wards fail in my presence. I see Greiss caused it now, greater even than I dreamt, flashing and phasing before me, and I wonder: Why accept the aid of gods when I might become one? Why settle for conquering star systems when I might sit upon the throne of to lead here. It's like a universe?\\butcher's nightmare.\\
Changed line(s) 517 (click to see context) from:
I will enter the Orb. The Melem will take their rightful place beneath my feet. And I will take from these alien gods their supreme power. I will expand the Dominion, I will be the Dominion, and realities will bow before me."''
to:
Doesn't matter. I will enter have to find him, stop him from gaining whatever he came for. And then I have to get back. I have to tell the Conclave what we bargained with, what the first Ghostwalkers guarded us against. That we're being watched through the Fathom Orb. The Melem will take their rightful place beneath my feet. And I will take from That these alien gods their supreme power. horrors are getting closer to our reality. They won't believe me. They may even kill me. But I will expand the Dominion, I will be the Dominion, and realities will bow before me.have to try. Gods help us all."''
Changed line(s) 520 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A cracked medal of service to the Greiss Dominion, with shredded ribbon: a sign of defeat—kindling to stoke the fires of revenge. "''
to:
-> ''"A cracked medal of service to ''"Ghostpetals, a translucent, semi-intangible plant that grows only near the Greiss Dominion, with shredded ribbon: a sign Fathom Orb, permanently phased by its energy. A reminder of defeat—kindling to stoke the fires of revenge. home, and what's at stake."''
Changed line(s) 524,529 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Slash]]
-> ''"Officer Dinah Hardwicke\\
Shift Report: Tuesday, Nov 15, 1988\\
At 6:47 PM, responded to vehicle/pedestrian accident at Adams and Menlo. Pedestrian identified as [juvenile, name withheld]. Her injuries were minor and she was treated by paramedics on scene. When I asked what she was doing so far from home, wandering in traffic, she replied that she had been “following the music” and appeared neither scared nor in particular pain, but largely irate that the car had interrupted her.\\
\\
I spoke to [juvenile]'s guardian, her grandmother, and suggested she consider psychiatric treatment for the girl. Recommend follow-up from CPS to confirm."''
-> ''"Officer Dinah Hardwicke\\
Shift Report: Tuesday, Nov 15, 1988\\
At 6:47 PM, responded to vehicle/pedestrian accident at Adams and Menlo. Pedestrian identified as [juvenile, name withheld]. Her injuries were minor and she was treated by paramedics on scene. When I asked what she was doing so far from home, wandering in traffic, she replied that she had been “following the music” and appeared neither scared nor in particular pain, but largely irate that the car had interrupted her.\\
\\
I spoke to [juvenile]'s guardian, her grandmother, and suggested she consider psychiatric treatment for the girl. Recommend follow-up from CPS to confirm."''
to:
->
Shift Report: Tuesday, Nov 15, 1988\\
At 6:47 PM, responded
\\
Changed line(s) 532,534 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered call at 9:17 PM for an incident at Good Samaritan psych ward. Orderlies had largely regained control prior to my arrival. According to their statements, [juvenile], a teenage schizophrenic and frequent patient, attacked two nurses. During the assault, witnesses claim the girl screamed about carving “the spiders” out of the victims before they could do harm. Victims' injuries are serious but not life-threatening, and no charges are being filed at this time. [Juvenile] is being held involuntarily for further psychiatric evaluation."''
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered call at 9:17 PM for an incident at Good Samaritan psych ward. Orderlies had largely regained control prior to my arrival. According to their statements, [juvenile], a teenage schizophrenic and frequent patient, attacked two nurses. During the assault, witnesses claim the girl screamed about carving “the spiders” out of the victims before they could do harm. Victims' injuries are serious but not life-threatening, and no charges are being filed at this time. [Juvenile] is being held involuntarily for further psychiatric evaluation."''
to:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered''"Seems like a hundred years since I got that call at 9:17 PM for an incident at Good Samaritan psych ward. Orderlies 0400. I hauled my ass to the Slipgate Complex, but the shit had largely regained control prior to my arrival. According to already hit the fan. Marines bleeding from their statements, [juvenile], eyes, some kind of half-done mods in their skin, all of them trying to kill me. Even a teenage schizophrenic couple guys I knew. Commander was AWOL. The place was a maze. It was like the worst dream I'd ever had. But I know how to follow orders. I just had to find "Quake" and frequent patient, attacked two nurses. During the assault, witnesses claim the girl screamed kill it. No time to think about carving “the spiders” out of what the victims before they could do harm. Victims' injuries are serious but not life-threatening, and no charges are being filed at this time. [Juvenile] is being held involuntarily for further psychiatric evaluation.hell I was seeing."''
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered
Changed line(s) 537,539 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded to disturbance at Inkremental Tattoo at 4:30 PM. Found Armand Saez, proprietor, in near-fugue state, carving jagged lines into his skin with used tattoo needle. Called paramedics, attempted to restrain Saez from further self-harm until their arrival. Eventually coaxed Saez into telling me that a teenage girl had come in for tattoos of various “spider-like” patterns, but that once she had departed, he found himself unable to stop repeating the markings. Could not identify girl except to say that she'd insisted he play Swan Lake on stereo while working."''
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded to disturbance at Inkremental Tattoo at 4:30 PM. Found Armand Saez, proprietor, in near-fugue state, carving jagged lines into his skin with used tattoo needle. Called paramedics, attempted to restrain Saez from further self-harm until their arrival. Eventually coaxed Saez into telling me that a teenage girl had come in for tattoos of various “spider-like” patterns, but that once she had departed, he found himself unable to stop repeating the markings. Could not identify girl except to say that she'd insisted he play Swan Lake on stereo while working."''
to:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded''"They didn't tell me much about the Slipgate. They had hired some creepy egghead to disturbance at Inkremental Tattoo at 4:30 PM. Found Armand Saez, proprietor, build it in near-fugue state, carving jagged lines into the underground levels - Gilman, I think his skin with name was. But what else was he doing down there? Why was the facility laid out like a death trap? When I used tattoo needle. Called paramedics, attempted the first Slipgate, I got zapped to restrain Saez from further self-harm until their arrival. Eventually coaxed Saez into telling me somewhere else, but it looked the same. Had they already gone through and built a base on the other side? What about those psycho Marines, the poor bastards? Who did that a teenage girl had come in for tattoos of various “spider-like” patterns, but that once she had departed, he found himself unable to stop repeating the markings. Could not identify girl except to say that she'd insisted he play Swan Lake on stereo while working."''them? Was it Quake, or was it Gilman?"''
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded
Changed line(s) 542,544 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide for Det. Chen's investigation. Discovered that homicide suspect actually fled empty handed after shooting cashier. Theft of money from register was apparent crime of opportunity, committed by young woman on rollerblades after original perpetrator departed. Video too unclear to be sure, but tattoo pattern on secondary suspect's arm could match “spider-like” tattoos as described in my Jan 20 report. Young woman also appears familiar to me personally. Will check past reports in hopes of identifying her."''
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide for Det. Chen's investigation. Discovered that homicide suspect actually fled empty handed after shooting cashier. Theft of money from register was apparent crime of opportunity, committed by young woman on rollerblades after original perpetrator departed. Video too unclear to be sure, but tattoo pattern on secondary suspect's arm could match “spider-like” tattoos as described in my Jan 20 report. Young woman also appears familiar to me personally. Will check past reports in hopes of identifying her."''
to:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide''"Doesn't make any sense. I was fighting for Det. Chen's investigation. Discovered my life as soon as I got there, and then things just kept getting darker and weirder. There were other Slipgates, and I went through them. Nowhere else to go. No idea where they were leading to. I just shot at anything that homicide suspect actually fled empty handed after moved, and I've been shooting cashier. Theft of money from register was apparent crime of opportunity, committed by young woman on rollerblades ever since. Feels like the night terrors I got after original perpetrator departed. Video too unclear to be sure, but tattoo pattern on secondary suspect's arm could match “spider-like” tattoos as described in my Jan 20 report. Young woman also appears familiar to Vietnam. Maybe the whole thing really is just a bad nightmare. What else would explain any of it? Somebody wake me personally. Will check past reports in hopes of identifying her.up. My wife and kids need me."''
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide
Changed line(s) 547,551 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work to confirm Dr. Ruslan Mamonov has indeed set up shop here since USSR collapse. Tracked Subject One (patient of Mamonov's, name unknown) to a known junkies' alley. [Location withheld to protect multiple informants.]\\
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognized one of the users as [juvenile]; see report dated Nov 15 1988. Answers now to street name “Slash.” Told me she didn't recognize Subject One, but appeared deeply fascinated by my description of him."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work to confirm Dr. Ruslan Mamonov has indeed set up shop here since USSR collapse. Tracked Subject One (patient of Mamonov's, name unknown) to a known junkies' alley. [Location withheld to protect multiple informants.]\\
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognized one of the users as [juvenile]; see report dated Nov 15 1988. Answers now to street name “Slash.” Told me she didn't recognize Subject One, but appeared deeply fascinated by my description of him."''
to:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work''"Those runes I found. Every time I found one, my head flooded with stuff I wasn't supposed to confirm Dr. Ruslan Mamonov has indeed set up shop here since USSR collapse. Tracked Subject One (patient of Mamonov's, name unknown) to a known junkies' alley. [Location withheld to protect multiple informants.]\\
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognizedknow. Stuff no one should know. That's how I learned what Quake was: Shub-Ngurath. A pile of letters for a pile of tentacles. But those Slipgates led me to all four runes. Did someone or something want me to find them? Without them I never would've gotten to that squirming heap. Never would've found the users as [juvenile]; see report dated Nov 15 1988. Answers now Orb I used to street name “Slash.” Told me she didn't recognize Subject One, but appeared deeply fascinated by my description of him.kill her. The game-winning pass. I thought for sure I'd get to go home after that. No such luck."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognized
Changed line(s) 554,556 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned that Subject One answers to street name “Anarki.” Real name unknown. Tracking his recent movements, located underground clinic; observed for 24 hours, then raided. Neither Anarki nor Mamonov present, but located several associated surgeons (see attached) and [juvenile], a.k.a. “Slash.” She told me I led her here; apparently she's regularly been clinging to my bumper on her rollerblades since we spoke about Anarki. Surgeon abruptly became very agitated, claimed to hear music when operating on “Slash.” By the time surgeon was subdued, “Slash” had slipped away from accompanying officers."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned that Subject One answers to street name “Anarki.” Real name unknown. Tracking his recent movements, located underground clinic; observed for 24 hours, then raided. Neither Anarki nor Mamonov present, but located several associated surgeons (see attached) and [juvenile], a.k.a. “Slash.” She told me I led her here; apparently she's regularly been clinging to my bumper on her rollerblades since we spoke about Anarki. Surgeon abruptly became very agitated, claimed to hear music when operating on “Slash.” By the time surgeon was subdued, “Slash” had slipped away from accompanying officers."''
to:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned''"I've had this damn Orb ever since. Not that Subject One answers different from a football, except I get to street name “Anarki.” Real name unknown. Tracking his recent movements, located underground clinic; observed for 24 hours, then raided. Neither Anarki nor Mamonov present, play QB and running back at the same time. And nothing beats catching your own pass and killing some bad guy in the process. Sometimes I call out plays in my head during fights. Helps me keep the memories I left. Miskatonic. The Fightin' Badgers. I was pretty good back in the day Not good enough to go pro, but located several associated surgeons (see attached) and [juvenile], a.k.a. “Slash.” She told enough to be the hometown hero a couple of times. Annie tells me I led her here; apparently she's regularly been clinging to my bumper on her rollerblades since we spoke about Anarki. Surgeon abruptly became very agitated, claimed to hear music when operating on “Slash.” By the time surgeon was subdued, “Slash” had slipped away from accompanying officers.clueless. She's probably right. She usually is."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned
Changed line(s) 559,561 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report I lost a suspect today. Locating “Slash” wasn't difficult, nor was the initial arrest, as she was high at the time. After being placed in the car, she began a sing-song recitation about music disturbing the webs, which become spider legs, which become veins. It was at that moment I felt something crawling under my collar. I'm afraid I briefly panicked, and when I'd finally determined there was nothing on me, she had somehow escaped both her cuffs and the car. I will find her again."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report I lost a suspect today. Locating “Slash” wasn't difficult, nor was the initial arrest, as she was high at the time. After being placed in the car, she began a sing-song recitation about music disturbing the webs, which become spider legs, which become veins. It was at that moment I felt something crawling under my collar. I'm afraid I briefly panicked, and when I'd finally determined there was nothing on me, she had somehow escaped both her cuffs and the car. I will find her again."''
to:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report''"Need to stay sane, or whatever passes for sane here. Gotta be careful remembering Annie. Don't want to turn her into some story I lost a suspect today. Locating “Slash” wasn't difficult, nor was tell myself. So I try to remember the initial arrest, as bad parts, too. How mad she was high when I enlisted, how low she got after K was born. But damn I miss her. Everybody should have someone who looks at them the time. After way she looks at me. We've always made it through the rough times. I hope we'll make it through this, too. I hope she can forgive me for being placed in the car, she began a sing-song recitation about music disturbing the webs, which become spider legs, which become veins. It was at that moment I felt something crawling under my collar. I'm afraid I briefly panicked, and when I'd finally determined there was nothing on me, she had somehow escaped both her cuffs and the car. I will find her again.gone so long."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report
Changed line(s) 564,569 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return to the alley for their fix eventually. One or both of them will lead me to Mamonov.\\
Apparently her little mind games are still eating at me; I could swear I've spotted tiny shapes moving in the shadows of the alley around them. Imagining things? Smudges on the lenses?\\
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's house that just might slow her down some."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return to the alley for their fix eventually. One or both of them will lead me to Mamonov.\\
Apparently her little mind games are still eating at me; I could swear I've spotted tiny shapes moving in the shadows of the alley around them. Imagining things? Smudges on the lenses?\\
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's house that just might slow her down some."''
to:
-> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki”''"One of the worst things about losing my mind in here: I can't remember my kids' names. I call them J and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return K now. Our firstborn was a girl. Tough as nails. When she busted her arm on the jungle gym, she tried to comfort her mom on the way to the alley for their fix eventually. One or both of them will lead me to Mamonov.\\
ApparentlyER. I cried at her little mind games are still eating at me; I could swear I've spotted tiny shapes moving graduation. Annie had fun with that. A couple years later J arrived. He had me figured out in the shadows of the alley around them. Imagining things? Smudges on the lenses?\\
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's houseno time. So smart that just might slow her down some.kid. I haven't gotten a chance to tell him how proud I am of him. But I will, goddamnit."''
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki”
Apparently
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's house
Changed line(s) 572,574 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing for three days. Hardwicke was found aimlessly wandering near Adams and Menlo, blindly jabbing an empty needle into her arm. Needle contained traces of heroin. On scene, she repeated over and over that she watched two people vanish; that they covered themselves in “dancing spiders,” and were gone when the spiders scattered. She interrupted her repetition only once, to order me to “Tell grandmother someone stole her music box.” (Det. Hardwicke's grandmothers are both long deceased.) We've left Hardwicke at Good Samaritan for psychiatric evaluation."''
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing for three days. Hardwicke was found aimlessly wandering near Adams and Menlo, blindly jabbing an empty needle into her arm. Needle contained traces of heroin. On scene, she repeated over and over that she watched two people vanish; that they covered themselves in “dancing spiders,” and were gone when the spiders scattered. She interrupted her repetition only once, to order me to “Tell grandmother someone stole her music box.” (Det. Hardwicke's grandmothers are both long deceased.) We've left Hardwicke at Good Samaritan for psychiatric evaluation."''
to:
-> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing''"I used to try to keep track of time here, but it's no use. The sky makes no sense. Some places seem to have day and night but most don't. Feels like years, but I don't feel any older. When I manage to sleep, I can't tell whether it's for three minutes, hours, or days. Hardwicke was found aimlessly wandering near Adams Maybe no time has passed at all back home. I'll get out of here and Menlo, blindly jabbing an empty needle crawl back into bed with my wife. She'll let me sleep in. I'll talk her arm. Needle contained traces of heroin. On scene, she repeated over into making me pancakes and over that she watched two people vanish; that they covered themselves bacon in “dancing spiders,” and were gone when the spiders scattered. She interrupted her repetition only once, to order me to “Tell grandmother someone stole her music box.” (Det. Hardwicke's grandmothers are both long deceased.) We've left Hardwicke at Good Samaritan for psychiatric evaluation.morning. That's the way it's gonna go."''
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing
Changed line(s) 577 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A small music box, well over 100 years old, containing a figurine of an ice-skater who turns to Swan Lake. The mechanism is old and worn, as well as coated with wisps of cobweb, yet continues to play perfectly."''
to:
-> ''"A small music box, well over 100 years old, containing a figurine of an ice-skater who turns to Swan Lake. The mechanism crumpled, thirty-year-old family photograph is old Ranger's most prized possession and worn, as well as coated with wisps his only tangible link to life before Operation Counterstrike. A faded ballpoint scribble on the back reads, “Haverhill - Beach St - 1978.” Ranger keeps the photo between layers of cobweb, yet continues his armored boot to play perfectly.ensure that no harm comes to it."''
Changed line(s) 581,582 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Sorlag]]
-> ''"It had been whispered for centuries: that after the fall, a hatchling with a dire destiny would emerge from a scarred egg. The voice of the Haruspex called for silence the barren cavern as the tribe huddled near the blaze of the fire. Any emergence was cause for the tribe to stop and observe. But with an egg so marked, all eyes watched. The first tearing of the egg began slowly; yet even as a hatchling, this one emerged with a violence and speed that made even the old ones recoil, hissing into the night."''
-> ''"It had been whispered for centuries: that after the fall, a hatchling with a dire destiny would emerge from a scarred egg. The voice of the Haruspex called for silence the barren cavern as the tribe huddled near the blaze of the fire. Any emergence was cause for the tribe to stop and observe. But with an egg so marked, all eyes watched. The first tearing of the egg began slowly; yet even as a hatchling, this one emerged with a violence and speed that made even the old ones recoil, hissing into the night."''
to:
->
Changed line(s) 585 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The Haruspex began the chant, filled with sounds and phrases that, though seemingly gibberish, struck fear in all who heard. That chant, in a tongue forgotten by all but a few ancients, spoke of the Other Place, its awesome power and mind-searing horrors, and of the Sorg's fateful connection to it. And then the old Haruspex's voice rose to a roar as he slowly held aloft the still curled, glair-covered hatchling and pronounced its name. Sorlag. And all looked up to the hatchling, even now struggling to be free from the grasp that held it."''
to:
-> ''"The Haruspex began the chant, filled with sounds and phrases that, though seemingly gibberish, struck fear in all who heard. That chant, in a tongue ''"What sort of cowardly, fatherless egg-clutchers have my soldiers become? Has this campaign gone so easily for them that they have forgotten by all but a few ancients, spoke of the Other Place, its awesome power and mind-searing horrors, and of the Sorg's fateful connection to it. And then the old Haruspex's voice rose to a roar as he slowly held aloft the still curled, glair-covered hatchling and pronounced its name. Sorlag. And all looked up to the hatchling, even now struggling what it means to be free Greiss? The Melem are nothing! Weaklings! Pacifists! Yet every report I receive is defeat after defeat, burbling some nonsense about “phantom enemies.” As if we'd never before dealt with stealth technology! I had planned to supervise from the grasp that held it."''command ship, but clearly I must take a personal hand. And I've not decided yet whether the Melem or my own incompetent officers shall suffer the worse for it!"''
Changed line(s) 588 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The clan's minders knew the legend that foretold of this special one. So they raised and trained Sorlag with great caution. And soon her strength indeed became something to fear. But although each minder concealed their fears, the truth became obvious to the whole clan: Sorlag knew no fear or pity, and she never would. The day came when all that remained to teach her were the Sorg ways of hunting, raiding, and killing. Others learned this slowly. Not Sorlag. Her taste for blood, for meat, for destruction drove her faster than the minders would go."''
to:
-> ''"The clan's minders knew ''"I stagger through the legend that foretold wreckage of this special one. So our siege engines. I'm dizzy; one of those cursed phantom warriors passed through me, and my mind feels as though they raised and trained Sorlag with great caution. And soon her strength indeed became left something to fear. But although each minder concealed their fears, the truth became obvious to the whole clan: Sorlag knew no fear or pity, and she never would. within it. The day came when all that remained to teach her were the Sorg ways of hunting, raiding, and killing. Others learned this slowly. Not Sorlag. Her taste for blood, for meat, for destruction drove her faster than the minders smoke burns my eyes, but I welcome it. Without it I would go."''be forced to stare at the incoming holographic message instead of only hearing it.\\
\\
The Dominion is taking my command from me. They call it reassignment, but I know exile for what it is. Shame. Disgrace. But I could bear that if I knew how it happened. Damn the Melem, I will know how!"''
\\
The Dominion is taking my command from me. They call it reassignment, but I know exile for what it is. Shame. Disgrace. But I could bear that if I knew how it happened. Damn the Melem, I will know how!"''
Changed line(s) 591 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The Haruspex gave a command: Let Sorlag join a raid. But first, she must come to him—to learn secrets that, even at such an early age, should bring doubts and difficult questions. With the stone walls surrounding him, filled with the ancient carvings and the colors of quickly painted images, the Haruspex said, “Look,” pointing to it all. And did Sorlag give the ancient images even a cursory glance? No, said those who dared edge close enough to the chamber to bear witness. But the Haruspex extended a curled claw to her indifferent chin, to make Sorlag understand."''
to:
-> ''"The Haruspex gave a command: Let Sorlag join a raid. But first, she ''"I must come know. I will know.\\
\\
Been here ... Five days? Six? Too busy tohim—to learn secrets that, even at such an early age, keep track, to sleep. I've read every single report, every communique, from the Melem theater. I was wrong. Not stealth tech, no. So very far beyond mere stealth. Penetration of physical barriers, of defensive shields. Phase-shifting? Dimensional transfer? The Melem should bring doubts and difficult questions. With not be so far advanced. This is far beyond anything the stone walls surrounding him, filled with Greiss have created. How have they done it? I can take it all back, grind them into dust, spread the ancient carvings and the colors of quickly painted images, the Haruspex said, “Look,” pointing to it all. And did Sorlag give the ancient images even Dominion over a cursory glance? No, said those who dared edge close enough to the chamber to bear witness. But the Haruspex extended a curled claw to her indifferent chin, to make Sorlag understand."''thousand more systems once I know!"''
\\
Been here ... Five days? Six? Too busy to
Changed line(s) 594 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"The Sorg once ruled the world. Only five great clans existed, and they lived in sprawling cities. There was peace. But long after the Fall, the warmbloods rose to plunder our world! They had machines to dig and to think and to kill. They tried to banish us from our own lands. They tried to kill every Sorg, even smashing scores of our eggs before the hatchlings could draw their first breath. The Sorg retreated to the caves—these caves. And with one world gone, we made another. We would survive. We would fight. But then the Oruk created their own downfall."''
to:
-> ''"The Sorg once ruled the world. Only five ''"I have seen it! Fatigue finally took me, and in my dreams I have seen it! A great clans existed, orb, made of plasma and power and the desires of they who dwell between worlds. The Melem did not create this wonder, they merely harnessed it. And I will have it!\\
\\
I have told Doctor Auvor and Commander Thrrim of my revelation, described it in detail, demanded they recreate it. They doubt. They mouth reassurances between nagging queries about my mind's wellbeing. As though I were some deluded invalid! But they will understand. They will succeed, and theylived in sprawling cities. There was peace. But long after the Fall, the warmbloods rose to plunder our world! They had machines to dig and to think and to kill. They tried to banish us from our own lands. They tried to kill every Sorg, even smashing scores of our eggs before the hatchlings could draw their first breath. The Sorg retreated to the caves—these caves. And with one world gone, we made another. We would survive. We would fight. But then the Oruk created their own downfall.will believe."''
\\
I have told Doctor Auvor and Commander Thrrim of my revelation, described it in detail, demanded they recreate it. They doubt. They mouth reassurances between nagging queries about my mind's wellbeing. As though I were some deluded invalid! But they will understand. They will succeed, and they
Changed line(s) 597 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Sorlag stood up, hissing at the tale. She walked past the Haruspex and opened her mouth, tasting acrid air. Acid built in her throat, eager for a target, as she laid a claw on one image. A machine to kill Sorg. The Haruspex nodded. “Many, many cycles ago, Oruk machines learned the buried secret of the Other Place, with its blood, death, and horror. The machines passed the secret into the Oruk. The portal opened. In their madness some fled into it, no longer masters. They were like chunks of meat thrown to hungry beasts. This was the Oruks' Fall.”"''
to:
-> ''"Sorlag stood up, hissing at ''"Another failure. And these fools call themselves scientists! Yet, we were close. Even amid the tale. She walked past sparks and strobes, I saw them through the Haruspex walls of this reality: Things reaching for us, watching, wanting, needing. I saw them, and opened her mouth, tasting acrid air. Acid built in her throat, eager for a target, as she laid a claw they saw me.\\
\\
I wonder why Doctor Auvor and his people insist onone image. A lying to me. They claim the machine to kill Sorg. The Haruspex nodded. “Many, many cycles ago, Oruk machines learned produced no effect at all, that they cannot even fathom the buried secret technology of the Other Place, with its blood, death, and horror. The machines passed orb I've described. They tell me I cannot have seen anything out of the secret into ordinary. Until I know the Oruk. The portal opened. In purpose of their madness some fled into it, no longer masters. They were like chunks of meat thrown deceptions, I pretend to hungry beasts. This was the Oruks' Fall.”"''demur."''
\\
I wonder why Doctor Auvor and his people insist on
Changed line(s) 600 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Sorlag left the cave. Those who had gathered outside backed away from her. Had the place and its story made her understand the Sorg ways? Had it made her even more brutal, more deadly? As they returned to the clan grounds, no one spoke—not even the Haruspex! Days later, when the clan grew hungry and the cycle demanded it was time to hunt the wandering, wild warmbloods and raid their camps, Sorlag took up weapons and strode to the front to lead. None questioned her right to be there. None questioned her seizing of leadership. None dared."''
to:
-> ''"Sorlag left ''"The dreams come nightly now. Black cities of impossible angles, built on foundations of broken universes. And within them dwell gods, their eyes turned in our direction. It is because the cave. Those who had gathered outside backed away from her. Had scientists' partial failures have linked me with the place Melem's orb. I know it, and its story made her understand I know the Sorg ways? Had it made her even more brutal, more deadly? As they returned to the clan grounds, no one spoke—not even the Haruspex! Days later, when the clan grew hungry wisdom and the cycle demanded it was time to hunt the wandering, wild warmbloods and raid their camps, Sorlag took up weapons and strode power within that orb must belong to the front to lead. None questioned her right to be there. None questioned her seizing of leadership. None dared.Greiss. To me.\\
\\
Auvor and Thrrim speak against me, tell the others I've gone mad with vengeful obsession. They want this power for themselves, but I am not concerned with their ambitions. The hidden gods know who is worthy."''
\\
Auvor and Thrrim speak against me, tell the others I've gone mad with vengeful obsession. They want this power for themselves, but I am not concerned with their ambitions. The hidden gods know who is worthy."''
Changed line(s) 603 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"And that hunt would create unending strife for Sorlag and for all Sorg, for when a warmblood band is found, only one Sorg clan may claim it. The harvesting, slaughter, and slaves are for that clan alone! Only this law keeps an uneasy peace between the many raiding clans. But that night, Sorlag and her raiders found a group of Oruk pinned against a sheer cliff as another Sorg warband closed in—from a distant clan Sorlag did not know. Her raiders began to turn away, but Sorlag stopped them. She spoke only one chilling word: “Ours.”"''
to:
-> ''"And ''"As I anticipated, the gods within the Orb have made their preference known. I have awakened from my dreams to halls stained with blood and shredded flesh. A pity they slew my entire team, rather than merely the traitors Auvor and Thrrim, but no matter.\\
\\
I do find it curious thathunt would create unending strife the hidden ones chose to use my weapons to cull them while I slumbered, but I will know their ways and reasons in time. To Melem lands, then, for Sorlag and for all Sorg, for when a warmblood band is found, only one Sorg clan may claim it. The harvesting, slaughter, and slaves are for that clan alone! Only this law keeps an uneasy peace between in these new dreams I have seen the many raiding clans. But that night, Sorlag and her raiders found a group Opener of Oruk pinned against a sheer cliff as another Sorg warband closed in—from a distant clan Sorlag did not know. Her raiders began the Way. I know how to turn away, but Sorlag stopped them. She spoke only one chilling word: “Ours.”"''enter the Orb."''
\\
I do find it curious that
Changed line(s) 606 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Then Sorg fought Sorg as the warmbloods cowered. Sorlag's bloodlust only grew with each kill. Suddenly, gunfire from above! Sorlag spun around to find her raiders dead, and the other clan's raiders fleeing. She whirled back. There atop the cliff was an Oruk woman in a feathered headdress, her gun's barrel still glowing red with heat. Sorlag leapt to the cliff and scaled it with her bare claws, but by the time she reached the top, the Hunter was gone. Sorlag had found her destiny. She would kill this Hunter ... even if it meant following her into the Other Place."''
to:
-> ''"Then Sorg fought Sorg as ''"The guardians of the warmbloods cowered. Sorlag's bloodlust only grew with each kill. Suddenly, gunfire shrine fall before me. The wards fail in my presence. I see it now, greater even than I dreamt, flashing and phasing before me, and I wonder: Why accept the aid of gods when I might become one? Why settle for conquering star systems when I might sit upon the throne of a universe?\\
\\
I will enter the Orb. The Melem will take their rightful place beneath my feet. And I will take fromabove! Sorlag spun around to find her raiders dead, these alien gods their supreme power. I will expand the Dominion, I will be the Dominion, and the other clan's raiders fleeing. She whirled back. There atop the cliff was an Oruk woman in a feathered headdress, her gun's barrel still glowing red with heat. Sorlag leapt to the cliff and scaled it with her bare claws, but by the time she reached the top, the Hunter was gone. Sorlag had found her destiny. She would kill this Hunter ... even if it meant following her into the Other Place.realities will bow before me."''
\\
I will enter the Orb. The Melem will take their rightful place beneath my feet. And I will take from
Changed line(s) 609 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A clutch of feathers tied to shard of bone. The feathers were the only sign of Hunter that Sorlag found at the clifftop on the night of their first confrontation; they serve as a talisman to stoke her wrath."''
to:
-> ''"A clutch cracked medal of feathers tied service to shard of bone. The feathers were the only Greiss Dominion, with shredded ribbon: a sign of Hunter that Sorlag found at the clifftop on the night of their first confrontation; they serve as a talisman defeat—kindling to stoke her wrath.the fires of revenge. "''
Changed line(s) 613,616 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Strogg & Peeker]]
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.1. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Peeker,\\
Sorry I sent you out beyond the drone distance parameter. Overcautious since the incident. Now you're nonfunctional and waiting for a replacement neurocyte. Strange being droneless - lonely, even with perpetual Strogg communication. Why did Makron assign us gekk-clearing duty again, anyway? It knows what happened last time. It has been showing signs of irrationality lately. Don't tell it I said so. In better news, I have been assigned databrain courier duty for the second Earth harvesting wave! I am to protect it until it reaches its destination."''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.1. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Peeker,\\
Sorry I sent you out beyond the drone distance parameter. Overcautious since the incident. Now you're nonfunctional and waiting for a replacement neurocyte. Strange being droneless - lonely, even with perpetual Strogg communication. Why did Makron assign us gekk-clearing duty again, anyway? It knows what happened last time. It has been showing signs of irrationality lately. Don't tell it I said so. In better news, I have been assigned databrain courier duty for the second Earth harvesting wave! I am to protect it until it reaches its destination."''
to:
->
Dear Peeker,\\
Sorry I sent you out beyond the drone distance parameter. Overcautious since the incident. Now you're nonfunctional
Shift Report: Tuesday, Nov 15, 1988\\
At 6:47 PM, responded to vehicle/pedestrian accident at Adams and
\\
I
Changed line(s) 619,621 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.2. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational to record to you anyway. Peeker's memory is very limited. My deployment was cancelled. What is an infiltrator without its drone? Cerberon seems empty. Almost all Strogg were sent to harvest the humans. Those of us left on Stroggos have reduced stroyent rations. Most conserve energy. It is... quiet. Makron did not instruct me to transfer you to a fully effective Strogg before the second wave deployed, nor to return you to the research facility. So I will protect you until given further orders."''
Dear Databrain,\\
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational to record to you anyway. Peeker's memory is very limited. My deployment was cancelled. What is an infiltrator without its drone? Cerberon seems empty. Almost all Strogg were sent to harvest the humans. Those of us left on Stroggos have reduced stroyent rations. Most conserve energy. It is... quiet. Makron did not instruct me to transfer you to a fully effective Strogg before the second wave deployed, nor to return you to the research facility. So I will protect you until given further orders."''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.2. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered call at 9:17 PM for an incident at Good Samaritan psych ward. Orderlies had largely regained control prior torecord my arrival. According to you anyway. Peeker's memory is very limited. My deployment was cancelled. What is an infiltrator without its drone? Cerberon seems empty. Almost all Strogg were sent to harvest their statements, [juvenile], a teenage schizophrenic and frequent patient, attacked two nurses. During the humans. Those assault, witnesses claim the girl screamed about carving “the spiders” out of us left on Stroggos have reduced stroyent rations. Most conserve energy. It is... quiet. Makron did not instruct me to transfer you to a fully effective Strogg the victims before the second wave deployed, nor to return you to the research facility. So I will protect you until given they could do harm. Victims' injuries are serious but not life-threatening, and no charges are being filed at this time. [Juvenile] is being held involuntarily for further orders.psychiatric evaluation."''
Dear Databrain,\\
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered call at 9:17 PM for an incident at Good Samaritan psych ward. Orderlies had largely regained control prior to
Changed line(s) 624,626 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.3. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived to attack us. What folly! Our EMP generator disabled hundreds of their assault pods in one burst. Their meat-filled metal shells pelted the surface of Stroggos. Some hang in low orbit, abandoned. My new directive: search for intact humans and bring them to Recieving. Bring all other human components to Processing. I am grateful for the work, even if it is tedious. I have identified no survivors. They are made weak by dependence on bodies made mostly of wet tissue."''
Dear Databrain,\\
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived to attack us. What folly! Our EMP generator disabled hundreds of their assault pods in one burst. Their meat-filled metal shells pelted the surface of Stroggos. Some hang in low orbit, abandoned. My new directive: search for intact humans and bring them to Recieving. Bring all other human components to Processing. I am grateful for the work, even if it is tedious. I have identified no survivors. They are made weak by dependence on bodies made mostly of wet tissue."''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.3. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded toattack us. What folly! Our EMP generator disabled hundreds of disturbance at Inkremental Tattoo at 4:30 PM. Found Armand Saez, proprietor, in near-fugue state, carving jagged lines into his skin with used tattoo needle. Called paramedics, attempted to restrain Saez from further self-harm until their assault pods arrival. Eventually coaxed Saez into telling me that a teenage girl had come in one burst. Their meat-filled metal shells pelted for tattoos of various “spider-like” patterns, but that once she had departed, he found himself unable to stop repeating the surface of Stroggos. Some hang in low orbit, abandoned. My new directive: search for intact humans and bring them markings. Could not identify girl except to Recieving. Bring all other human components to Processing. I am grateful for the work, even if it is tedious. I have identified no survivors. They are made weak by dependence say that she'd insisted he play Swan Lake on bodies made mostly of wet tissue.stereo while working."''
Dear Databrain,\\
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded to
Changed line(s) 629,631 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.4. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used to its newly polished fins. Distracting. But at last I feel useful again. A guard reported a lone human survivor advancing toward the Outer Base. Makron has ordered all units to kill it on sight - except me. As the sole infiltrator left on Cerberon, my duty is to surveil the human and record its death. Makron gave me specific instructions not to engage the human in combat under any circumstances. Only me! Irrational, but I cannot question it, even if Makron seems... deranged."''
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used to its newly polished fins. Distracting. But at last I feel useful again. A guard reported a lone human survivor advancing toward the Outer Base. Makron has ordered all units to kill it on sight - except me. As the sole infiltrator left on Cerberon, my duty is to surveil the human and record its death. Makron gave me specific instructions not to engage the human in combat under any circumstances. Only me! Irrational, but I cannot question it, even if Makron seems... deranged."''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.4. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide for Det. Chen's investigation. Discovered that homicide suspect actually fled empty handed after shooting cashier. Theft of money from register was apparent crime of opportunity, committed by young woman on rollerblades after original perpetrator departed. Video too unclear toits newly polished fins. Distracting. But at last I feel useful again. A guard reported a lone human survivor advancing toward the Outer Base. Makron has ordered all units to kill it on sight - except me. As the sole infiltrator left on Cerberon, my duty is to surveil the human and record its death. Makron gave me specific instructions not to engage the human in combat under any circumstances. Only me! Irrational, be sure, but I cannot question it, even if Makron seems... deranged.tattoo pattern on secondary suspect's arm could match “spider-like” tattoos as described in my Jan 20 report. Young woman also appears familiar to me personally. Will check past reports in hopes of identifying her."''
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide for Det. Chen's investigation. Discovered that homicide suspect actually fled empty handed after shooting cashier. Theft of money from register was apparent crime of opportunity, committed by young woman on rollerblades after original perpetrator departed. Video too unclear to
Changed line(s) 634,636 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.5. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker and I have tracked the human to the supply station. It is a good drone. I exalt Makron for my new mission! Cerberon has been so dull since the second wave deployment. Most remaining here are former Greiss, and transforming them to Strogg requires removal of most of the neocortex. So they do not communicate much. They mostly stand around in odd places waiting for an enemy target. Sometines any target. The human is the only entertainment. It has somehow fought its way through the primary munitions depot! Many guards and and enforcers have been reprocessed."''
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker and I have tracked the human to the supply station. It is a good drone. I exalt Makron for my new mission! Cerberon has been so dull since the second wave deployment. Most remaining here are former Greiss, and transforming them to Strogg requires removal of most of the neocortex. So they do not communicate much. They mostly stand around in odd places waiting for an enemy target. Sometines any target. The human is the only entertainment. It has somehow fought its way through the primary munitions depot! Many guards and and enforcers have been reprocessed."''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.5. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker and I have tracked the human''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work tothe supply station. It is a good drone. I exalt Makron for my new mission! Cerberon confirm Dr. Ruslan Mamonov has been so dull indeed set up shop here since the second wave deployment. Most remaining here are former Greiss, and transforming them USSR collapse. Tracked Subject One (patient of Mamonov's, name unknown) to Strogg requires removal of most a known junkies' alley. [Location withheld to protect multiple informants.]\\
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognized one of theneocortex. So they do not communicate much. They mostly stand around in odd places waiting for an enemy target. Sometines any target. The human is the only entertainment. It has somehow fought its way through the primary munitions depot! Many guards and and enforcers have been reprocessed.users as [juvenile]; see report dated Nov 15 1988. Answers now to street name “Slash.” Told me she didn't recognize Subject One, but appeared deeply fascinated by my description of him."''
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker and I have tracked the human
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work to
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognized one of the
Changed line(s) 639,641 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.6. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I would not believe it had my drone and I not seen it ourselves! The human single-handedly assaulted the incarceration complex and disabled the security grid! This should not be possible. We are tailing it through the steedium mines now. It moves very quickly. I must follow at a distance shorter than protocol, because Peeker is reluctant to use its fill drone distance parameter. It can't be learned behaviour from its former damage. It must be the gekk cortical casing they used for its new neurocyte. Gekks are pack creatures. They are averse to being alone."''
Dear Databrain,\\
I would not believe it had my drone and I not seen it ourselves! The human single-handedly assaulted the incarceration complex and disabled the security grid! This should not be possible. We are tailing it through the steedium mines now. It moves very quickly. I must follow at a distance shorter than protocol, because Peeker is reluctant to use its fill drone distance parameter. It can't be learned behaviour from its former damage. It must be the gekk cortical casing they used for its new neurocyte. Gekks are pack creatures. They are averse to being alone."''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.6. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I would not believe it had my drone''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned that Subject One answers to street name “Anarki.” Real name unknown. Tracking his recent movements, located underground clinic; observed for 24 hours, then raided. Neither Anarki nor Mamonov present, but located several associated surgeons (see attached) and [juvenile], a.k.a. “Slash.” She told me Inot seen it ourselves! The human single-handedly assaulted the incarceration complex and disabled the security grid! This should not be possible. We are tailing it through the steedium mines now. It moves led her here; apparently she's regularly been clinging to my bumper on her rollerblades since we spoke about Anarki. Surgeon abruptly became very quickly. I must follow at a distance shorter than protocol, because Peeker is reluctant agitated, claimed to use its fill drone distance parameter. It can't be learned behaviour hear music when operating on “Slash.” By the time surgeon was subdued, “Slash” had slipped away from its former damage. It must be the gekk cortical casing they used for its new neurocyte. Gekks are pack creatures. They are averse to being alone.accompanying officers."''
Dear Databrain,\\
I would not believe it had my drone
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned that Subject One answers to street name “Anarki.” Real name unknown. Tracking his recent movements, located underground clinic; observed for 24 hours, then raided. Neither Anarki nor Mamonov present, but located several associated surgeons (see attached) and [juvenile], a.k.a. “Slash.” She told me I
Changed line(s) 644,646 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.7. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging the primary reactor. I think its objective is to disable the EMP generator. Cerberon would be vulnerable! Will the human succeed? It seems unstoppable. It has disposed of hundereds of Strogg. A thick nanite fog hangs in the air from their reprocessing. I could stop the human. It has likely never encountered an infiltrator. It would not detect me. I would approach from behind and sever its brain stem. But I cannot question the Makron. Makron sees what I am seeing. I cannot. I must."''
Dear Databrain,\\
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging the primary reactor. I think its objective is to disable the EMP generator. Cerberon would be vulnerable! Will the human succeed? It seems unstoppable. It has disposed of hundereds of Strogg. A thick nanite fog hangs in the air from their reprocessing. I could stop the human. It has likely never encountered an infiltrator. It would not detect me. I would approach from behind and sever its brain stem. But I cannot question the Makron. Makron sees what I am seeing. I cannot. I must."''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.7. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report I lost a suspect today. Locating “Slash” wasn't difficult, nor was theprimary reactor. I think its objective is to disable initial arrest, as she was high at the EMP generator. Cerberon would be vulnerable! Will the human succeed? It seems unstoppable. It has disposed of hundereds of Strogg. A thick nanite fog hangs time. After being placed in the air from their reprocessing. I could stop car, she began a sing-song recitation about music disturbing the human. webs, which become spider legs, which become veins. It has likely never encountered an infiltrator. It would not detect me. was at that moment I would approach from behind felt something crawling under my collar. I'm afraid I briefly panicked, and sever its brain stem. But I cannot question when I'd finally determined there was nothing on me, she had somehow escaped both her cuffs and the Makron. Makron sees what car. I am seeing. I cannot. I must.will find her again."''
Dear Databrain,\\
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report I lost a suspect today. Locating “Slash” wasn't difficult, nor was the
Changed line(s) 649,664 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.8. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;\\
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;\\
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;\\
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;\\
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;\\
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;\\
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;\\
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;\\
FOR THE STRO-\\
;;;"''
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;\\
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;\\
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;\\
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;\\
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;\\
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;\\
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;\\
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;\\
FOR THE STRO-\\
;;;"''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.8. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;\\
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return toprocess human ;;;\\
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, I do not understand "runes"the alley for their fix eventually. One or "magic" : Clarify ;;;\\
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permissionboth of them will lead me to process human: Advise ;;;\\
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;\\
MAKRON,Mamonov.\\
Apparently her little mind games are still eating at me; IHAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;\\
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;\\
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;\\
FOR THE STRO-\\
;;;"''could swear I've spotted tiny shapes moving in the shadows of the alley around them. Imagining things? Smudges on the lenses?\\
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's house that just might slow her down some."''
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;\\
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return to
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, I do not understand "runes"
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;\\
MAKRON,
Apparently her little mind games are still eating at me; I
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;\\
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;\\
FOR THE STRO-\\
;;;"''
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's house that just might slow her down some."''
Changed line(s) 667,669 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.9. Infiltrator 1815\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There was a blast. I regained function after... a duration. The first thing I heard was Peeker circling me. I have sustained unidentified damage. Is it my neurocyte? I have lost communication with the Strogg. I concluded that my optoreceptors were damaged, because I was seeing a landscape that was not Stroggos. But remote drone vision shows the same place. The shockwave from the destroyed generator must have caused a spatial folding. I kept you safe, databrain. And at least Peeker is here with me. We must find stroyent."''
Dear Databrain,\\
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There was a blast. I regained function after... a duration. The first thing I heard was Peeker circling me. I have sustained unidentified damage. Is it my neurocyte? I have lost communication with the Strogg. I concluded that my optoreceptors were damaged, because I was seeing a landscape that was not Stroggos. But remote drone vision shows the same place. The shockwave from the destroyed generator must have caused a spatial folding. I kept you safe, databrain. And at least Peeker is here with me. We must find stroyent."''
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.9. Infiltrator 1815\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing for three days. Hardwicke wasa blast. I regained function after... a duration. The first thing I heard was Peeker circling me. I have sustained unidentified damage. Is it my neurocyte? I have lost communication with the Strogg. I concluded found aimlessly wandering near Adams and Menlo, blindly jabbing an empty needle into her arm. Needle contained traces of heroin. On scene, she repeated over and over that my optoreceptors she watched two people vanish; that they covered themselves in “dancing spiders,” and were damaged, because I was seeing a landscape that was not Stroggos. But remote drone vision shows gone when the same place. The shockwave from the destroyed generator must have caused a spatial folding. I kept you safe, databrain. And spiders scattered. She interrupted her repetition only once, to order me to “Tell grandmother someone stole her music box.” (Det. Hardwicke's grandmothers are both long deceased.) We've left Hardwicke at least Peeker is here with me. We must find stroyent.Good Samaritan for psychiatric evaluation."''
Dear Databrain,\\
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing for three days. Hardwicke was
Changed line(s) 672 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"A Strogg databrain, still intact, intended to oversee the construction of a Strogg facility on Earth, at a site humans call "New Jersey." Cut off from the Strogg communication device, the databrain is useless except as a storage device connected to the two neurocytes nearby."''
to:
-> ''"A Strogg databrain, still intact, intended small music box, well over 100 years old, containing a figurine of an ice-skater who turns to oversee the construction Swan Lake. The mechanism is old and worn, as well as coated with wisps of a Strogg facility on Earth, at a site humans call "New Jersey." Cut off from the Strogg communication device, the databrain is useless except as a storage device connected cobweb, yet continues to the two neurocytes nearby.play perfectly."''
Changed line(s) 676,677 (click to see context) from:
[[folder:Visor]]
-> ''"*CLASSIFIED* - Intercepted correspondence from GRU official “FLUKE,” real name REDACTED, to KGB official “TRAPDOOR,” real name [REDACTED] - 20 MAR 1990 - FLUKE: Three of our republics have elected ethnic nationalists. We project another three will do so imminently. Soviet control eroding faster than projections. We have fast-tracked Project Mountain King. [REDACTED] reports that Soldier Prime, a genetic hybrid of Spetsgruppa A elites and Black Dolphin prisoners, is now a viable embryo in vitro. Accelerated maturation procedures have begun. Design of cybernetic enhancements is nearly complete."''
-> ''"*CLASSIFIED* - Intercepted correspondence from GRU official “FLUKE,” real name REDACTED, to KGB official “TRAPDOOR,” real name [REDACTED] - 20 MAR 1990 - FLUKE: Three of our republics have elected ethnic nationalists. We project another three will do so imminently. Soviet control eroding faster than projections. We have fast-tracked Project Mountain King. [REDACTED] reports that Soldier Prime, a genetic hybrid of Spetsgruppa A elites and Black Dolphin prisoners, is now a viable embryo in vitro. Accelerated maturation procedures have begun. Design of cybernetic enhancements is nearly complete."''
to:
->
Changed line(s) 680 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work in Leningrad was successful but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect of the paranormal experiments and will not be present in clones, unfortunately."''
to:
-> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work ''"The Haruspex began the chant, filled with sounds and phrases that, though seemingly gibberish, struck fear in Leningrad was successful all who heard. That chant, in a tongue forgotten by all but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect few ancients, spoke of the paranormal experiments Other Place, its awesome power and will not mind-searing horrors, and of the Sorg's fateful connection to it. And then the old Haruspex's voice rose to a roar as he slowly held aloft the still curled, glair-covered hatchling and pronounced its name. Sorlag. And all looked up to the hatchling, even now struggling to be present in clones, unfortunately.free from the grasp that held it."''
Changed line(s) 683 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution to the congenital sight impairment of the 20 clones of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of the vaults."''
to:
-> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact ''"The clan's minders knew the legend that foretold of this special one. So they raised and trained Sorlag with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution great caution. And soon her strength indeed became something to fear. But although each minder concealed their fears, the truth became obvious to the congenital sight impairment of whole clan: Sorlag knew no fear or pity, and she never would. The day came when all that remained to teach her were the 20 clones Sorg ways of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered hunting, raiding, and killing. Others learned this slowly. Not Sorlag. Her taste for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of blood, for meat, for destruction drove her faster than the vaults.minders would go."''
Changed line(s) 686 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto the face. Removal reveals full enucleation and unknown runes cut into the flesh around the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation."''
to:
-> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in ''"The Haruspex gave a command: Let Sorlag join a raid. But first, she must come to him—to learn secrets that, even at such an early age, should bring doubts and difficult questions. With the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto stone walls surrounding him, filled with the face. Removal reveals full enucleation ancient carvings and unknown runes cut into the flesh around colors of quickly painted images, the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between Haruspex said, “Look,” pointing to it all. And did Sorlag give the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this ancient images even a cursory glance? No, said those who dared edge close enough to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains the chamber to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation.bear witness. But the Haruspex extended a curled claw to her indifferent chin, to make Sorlag understand."''
Changed line(s) 689 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances and disembodied, unintelligible whispers after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated."''
to:
-> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from ''"The Sorg once ruled the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances world. Only five great clans existed, and disembodied, unintelligible whispers they lived in sprawling cities. There was peace. But long after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is Fall, the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis warmbloods rose to plunder our world! They had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted machines to dig and to think and to kill. They tried to banish us from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated.our own lands. They tried to kill every Sorg, even smashing scores of our eggs before the hatchlings could draw their first breath. The Sorg retreated to the caves—these caves. And with one world gone, we made another. We would survive. We would fight. But then the Oruk created their own downfall."''
Changed line(s) 692 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived and have returned for training. Initial evaluation of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject to your team for reverse engineering."''
to:
-> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm ''"Sorlag stood up, hissing at the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived tale. She walked past the Haruspex and have returned opened her mouth, tasting acrid air. Acid built in her throat, eager for training. Initial evaluation a target, as she laid a claw on one image. A machine to kill Sorg. The Haruspex nodded. “Many, many cycles ago, Oruk machines learned the buried secret of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, the Other Place, with its blood, death, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe horror. The machines passed the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject secret into the Oruk. The portal opened. In their madness some fled into it, no longer masters. They were like chunks of meat thrown to your team for reverse engineering."''hungry beasts. This was the Oruks' Fall.”"''
Changed line(s) 695 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can from the corpse. Recommend you do the same. A document in braille was found in a body cavity of the slain clone. Investigating."''
to:
-> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In ''"Sorlag left the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can cave. Those who had gathered outside backed away from her. Had the corpse. Recommend you do place and its story made her understand the same. A document in braille Sorg ways? Had it made her even more brutal, more deadly? As they returned to the clan grounds, no one spoke—not even the Haruspex! Days later, when the clan grew hungry and the cycle demanded it was found in a body cavity of time to hunt the slain clone. Investigating.wandering, wild warmbloods and raid their camps, Sorlag took up weapons and strode to the front to lead. None questioned her right to be there. None questioned her seizing of leadership. None dared."''
Changed line(s) 698 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime and Visor were deployed in the Battle of Grozny to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both."''
to:
-> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project ''"And that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime hunt would create unending strife for Sorlag and Visor were deployed in for all Sorg, for when a warmblood band is found, only one Sorg clan may claim it. The harvesting, slaughter, and slaves are for that clan alone! Only this law keeps an uneasy peace between the Battle many raiding clans. But that night, Sorlag and her raiders found a group of Grozny Oruk pinned against a sheer cliff as another Sorg warband closed in—from a distant clan Sorlag did not know. Her raiders began to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both."''turn away, but Sorlag stopped them. She spoke only one chilling word: “Ours.”"''
Changed line(s) 701 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route to a covert military complex in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''
to:
-> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers ''"Then Sorg fought Sorg as the warmbloods cowered. Sorlag's bloodlust only grew with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered each kill. Suddenly, gunfire from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route above! Sorlag spun around to a covert military complex find her raiders dead, and the other clan's raiders fleeing. She whirled back. There atop the cliff was an Oruk woman in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning a feathered headdress, her gun's barrel still glowing red with heat. Sorlag leapt to the cliff and scaled it with her bare claws, but by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''the time she reached the top, the Hunter was gone. Sorlag had found her destiny. She would kill this Hunter ... even if it meant following her into the Other Place."''
Changed line(s) 704 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible on screen should read as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''
to:
-> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible ''"A clutch of feathers tied to shard of bone. The feathers were the only sign of Hunter that Sorlag found at the clifftop on screen should read the night of their first confrontation; they serve as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''a talisman to stoke her wrath."''
Added DiffLines:
[[folder:Strogg & Peeker]]
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.1. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Peeker,\\
Sorry I sent you out beyond the drone distance parameter. Overcautious since the incident. Now you're nonfunctional and waiting for a replacement neurocyte. Strange being droneless - lonely, even with perpetual Strogg communication. Why did Makron assign us gekk-clearing duty again, anyway? It knows what happened last time. It has been showing signs of irrationality lately. Don't tell it I said so. In better news, I have been assigned databrain courier duty for the second Earth harvesting wave! I am to protect it until it reaches its destination."''
-> -- '''Part 1'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.2. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational to record to you anyway. Peeker's memory is very limited. My deployment was cancelled. What is an infiltrator without its drone? Cerberon seems empty. Almost all Strogg were sent to harvest the humans. Those of us left on Stroggos have reduced stroyent rations. Most conserve energy. It is... quiet. Makron did not instruct me to transfer you to a fully effective Strogg before the second wave deployed, nor to return you to the research facility. So I will protect you until given further orders."''
-> -- '''Part 2'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.3. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived to attack us. What folly! Our EMP generator disabled hundreds of their assault pods in one burst. Their meat-filled metal shells pelted the surface of Stroggos. Some hang in low orbit, abandoned. My new directive: search for intact humans and bring them to Recieving. Bring all other human components to Processing. I am grateful for the work, even if it is tedious. I have identified no survivors. They are made weak by dependence on bodies made mostly of wet tissue."''
-> -- '''Part 3'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.4. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used to its newly polished fins. Distracting. But at last I feel useful again. A guard reported a lone human survivor advancing toward the Outer Base. Makron has ordered all units to kill it on sight - except me. As the sole infiltrator left on Cerberon, my duty is to surveil the human and record its death. Makron gave me specific instructions not to engage the human in combat under any circumstances. Only me! Irrational, but I cannot question it, even if Makron seems... deranged."''
-> -- '''Part 4'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.5. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker and I have tracked the human to the supply station. It is a good drone. I exalt Makron for my new mission! Cerberon has been so dull since the second wave deployment. Most remaining here are former Greiss, and transforming them to Strogg requires removal of most of the neocortex. So they do not communicate much. They mostly stand around in odd places waiting for an enemy target. Sometines any target. The human is the only entertainment. It has somehow fought its way through the primary munitions depot! Many guards and and enforcers have been reprocessed."''
-> -- '''Part 5'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.6. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I would not believe it had my drone and I not seen it ourselves! The human single-handedly assaulted the incarceration complex and disabled the security grid! This should not be possible. We are tailing it through the steedium mines now. It moves very quickly. I must follow at a distance shorter than protocol, because Peeker is reluctant to use its fill drone distance parameter. It can't be learned behaviour from its former damage. It must be the gekk cortical casing they used for its new neurocyte. Gekks are pack creatures. They are averse to being alone."''
-> -- '''Part 6'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.7. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging the primary reactor. I think its objective is to disable the EMP generator. Cerberon would be vulnerable! Will the human succeed? It seems unstoppable. It has disposed of hundereds of Strogg. A thick nanite fog hangs in the air from their reprocessing. I could stop the human. It has likely never encountered an infiltrator. It would not detect me. I would approach from behind and sever its brain stem. But I cannot question the Makron. Makron sees what I am seeing. I cannot. I must."''
-> -- '''Part 7'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.8. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;\\
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;\\
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;\\
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;\\
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;\\
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;\\
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;\\
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;\\
FOR THE STRO-\\
;;;"''
-> -- '''Part 8'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.9. Infiltrator 1815\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There was a blast. I regained function after... a duration. The first thing I heard was Peeker circling me. I have sustained unidentified damage. Is it my neurocyte? I have lost communication with the Strogg. I concluded that my optoreceptors were damaged, because I was seeing a landscape that was not Stroggos. But remote drone vision shows the same place. The shockwave from the destroyed generator must have caused a spatial folding. I kept you safe, databrain. And at least Peeker is here with me. We must find stroyent."''
-> -- '''Part 9'''
-> ''"A Strogg databrain, still intact, intended to oversee the construction of a Strogg facility on Earth, at a site humans call "New Jersey." Cut off from the Strogg communication device, the databrain is useless except as a storage device connected to the two neurocytes nearby."''
-> -- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Visor]]
-> ''"*CLASSIFIED* - Intercepted correspondence from GRU official “FLUKE,” real name REDACTED, to KGB official “TRAPDOOR,” real name [REDACTED] - 20 MAR 1990 - FLUKE: Three of our republics have elected ethnic nationalists. We project another three will do so imminently. Soviet control eroding faster than projections. We have fast-tracked Project Mountain King. [REDACTED] reports that Soldier Prime, a genetic hybrid of Spetsgruppa A elites and Black Dolphin prisoners, is now a viable embryo in vitro. Accelerated maturation procedures have begun. Design of cybernetic enhancements is nearly complete."''
-> -- '''Part 1'''
-> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work in Leningrad was successful but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect of the paranormal experiments and will not be present in clones, unfortunately."''
-> -- '''Part 2'''
-> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution to the congenital sight impairment of the 20 clones of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of the vaults."''
-> -- '''Part 3'''
-> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto the face. Removal reveals full enucleation and unknown runes cut into the flesh around the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation."''
-> -- '''Part 4'''
-> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances and disembodied, unintelligible whispers after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated."''
-> -- '''Part 5'''
-> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived and have returned for training. Initial evaluation of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject to your team for reverse engineering."''
-> -- '''Part 6'''
-> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can from the corpse. Recommend you do the same. A document in braille was found in a body cavity of the slain clone. Investigating."''
-> -- '''Part 7'''
-> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime and Visor were deployed in the Battle of Grozny to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both."''
-> -- '''Part 8'''
-> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route to a covert military complex in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''
-> -- '''Part 9'''
-> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible on screen should read as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''
-> -- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.1. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Peeker,\\
Sorry I sent you out beyond the drone distance parameter. Overcautious since the incident. Now you're nonfunctional and waiting for a replacement neurocyte. Strange being droneless - lonely, even with perpetual Strogg communication. Why did Makron assign us gekk-clearing duty again, anyway? It knows what happened last time. It has been showing signs of irrationality lately. Don't tell it I said so. In better news, I have been assigned databrain courier duty for the second Earth harvesting wave! I am to protect it until it reaches its destination."''
-> -- '''Part 1'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.2. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational to record to you anyway. Peeker's memory is very limited. My deployment was cancelled. What is an infiltrator without its drone? Cerberon seems empty. Almost all Strogg were sent to harvest the humans. Those of us left on Stroggos have reduced stroyent rations. Most conserve energy. It is... quiet. Makron did not instruct me to transfer you to a fully effective Strogg before the second wave deployed, nor to return you to the research facility. So I will protect you until given further orders."''
-> -- '''Part 2'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.3. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived to attack us. What folly! Our EMP generator disabled hundreds of their assault pods in one burst. Their meat-filled metal shells pelted the surface of Stroggos. Some hang in low orbit, abandoned. My new directive: search for intact humans and bring them to Recieving. Bring all other human components to Processing. I am grateful for the work, even if it is tedious. I have identified no survivors. They are made weak by dependence on bodies made mostly of wet tissue."''
-> -- '''Part 3'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.4. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used to its newly polished fins. Distracting. But at last I feel useful again. A guard reported a lone human survivor advancing toward the Outer Base. Makron has ordered all units to kill it on sight - except me. As the sole infiltrator left on Cerberon, my duty is to surveil the human and record its death. Makron gave me specific instructions not to engage the human in combat under any circumstances. Only me! Irrational, but I cannot question it, even if Makron seems... deranged."''
-> -- '''Part 4'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.5. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
Peeker and I have tracked the human to the supply station. It is a good drone. I exalt Makron for my new mission! Cerberon has been so dull since the second wave deployment. Most remaining here are former Greiss, and transforming them to Strogg requires removal of most of the neocortex. So they do not communicate much. They mostly stand around in odd places waiting for an enemy target. Sometines any target. The human is the only entertainment. It has somehow fought its way through the primary munitions depot! Many guards and and enforcers have been reprocessed."''
-> -- '''Part 5'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.6. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I would not believe it had my drone and I not seen it ourselves! The human single-handedly assaulted the incarceration complex and disabled the security grid! This should not be possible. We are tailing it through the steedium mines now. It moves very quickly. I must follow at a distance shorter than protocol, because Peeker is reluctant to use its fill drone distance parameter. It can't be learned behaviour from its former damage. It must be the gekk cortical casing they used for its new neurocyte. Gekks are pack creatures. They are averse to being alone."''
-> -- '''Part 6'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.7. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Dear Databrain,\\
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging the primary reactor. I think its objective is to disable the EMP generator. Cerberon would be vulnerable! Will the human succeed? It seems unstoppable. It has disposed of hundereds of Strogg. A thick nanite fog hangs in the air from their reprocessing. I could stop the human. It has likely never encountered an infiltrator. It would not detect me. I would approach from behind and sever its brain stem. But I cannot question the Makron. Makron sees what I am seeing. I cannot. I must."''
-> -- '''Part 7'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.8. Infiltrator 1815]\\
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;\\
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;\\
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;\\
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;\\
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;\\
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;\\
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;\\
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;\\
FOR THE STRO-\\
;;;"''
-> -- '''Part 8'''
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.9. Infiltrator 1815\\
Dear Databrain,\\
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There was a blast. I regained function after... a duration. The first thing I heard was Peeker circling me. I have sustained unidentified damage. Is it my neurocyte? I have lost communication with the Strogg. I concluded that my optoreceptors were damaged, because I was seeing a landscape that was not Stroggos. But remote drone vision shows the same place. The shockwave from the destroyed generator must have caused a spatial folding. I kept you safe, databrain. And at least Peeker is here with me. We must find stroyent."''
-> -- '''Part 9'''
-> ''"A Strogg databrain, still intact, intended to oversee the construction of a Strogg facility on Earth, at a site humans call "New Jersey." Cut off from the Strogg communication device, the databrain is useless except as a storage device connected to the two neurocytes nearby."''
-> -- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Visor]]
-> ''"*CLASSIFIED* - Intercepted correspondence from GRU official “FLUKE,” real name REDACTED, to KGB official “TRAPDOOR,” real name [REDACTED] - 20 MAR 1990 - FLUKE: Three of our republics have elected ethnic nationalists. We project another three will do so imminently. Soviet control eroding faster than projections. We have fast-tracked Project Mountain King. [REDACTED] reports that Soldier Prime, a genetic hybrid of Spetsgruppa A elites and Black Dolphin prisoners, is now a viable embryo in vitro. Accelerated maturation procedures have begun. Design of cybernetic enhancements is nearly complete."''
-> -- '''Part 1'''
-> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work in Leningrad was successful but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect of the paranormal experiments and will not be present in clones, unfortunately."''
-> -- '''Part 2'''
-> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution to the congenital sight impairment of the 20 clones of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of the vaults."''
-> -- '''Part 3'''
-> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto the face. Removal reveals full enucleation and unknown runes cut into the flesh around the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation."''
-> -- '''Part 4'''
-> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances and disembodied, unintelligible whispers after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated."''
-> -- '''Part 5'''
-> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived and have returned for training. Initial evaluation of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject to your team for reverse engineering."''
-> -- '''Part 6'''
-> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can from the corpse. Recommend you do the same. A document in braille was found in a body cavity of the slain clone. Investigating."''
-> -- '''Part 7'''
-> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime and Visor were deployed in the Battle of Grozny to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both."''
-> -- '''Part 8'''
-> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route to a covert military complex in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''
-> -- '''Part 9'''
-> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible on screen should read as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''
-> -- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
Is there an issue? Send a MessageReason:
None
Changed line(s) 614,615 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.1. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Peeker,
Dear Peeker,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.1. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
DearPeeker,Peeker,\\
Dear
Changed line(s) 619,620 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.2. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Dear Databrain,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.2. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
DearDatabrain,Databrain,\\
Dear
Changed line(s) 624,625 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.3. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Dear Databrain,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.3. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
DearDatabrain,Databrain,\\
Dear
Changed line(s) 629,630 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.4. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Dear Databrain,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.4. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
DearDatabrain,Databrain,\\
Dear
Changed line(s) 634,635 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.5. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Dear Databrain,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.5. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
DearDatabrain,Databrain,\\
Dear
Changed line(s) 639,640 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.6. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Dear Databrain,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.6. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
DearDatabrain,Databrain,\\
Dear
Changed line(s) 644,645 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.7. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Dear Databrain,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.7. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
DearDatabrain,Databrain,\\
Dear
Changed line(s) 649,663 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.8. Infiltrator 1815]
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;
;;;
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;
;;;
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;
FOR THE STRO-
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;
;;;
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;
;;;
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;
FOR THE STRO-
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.8. Infiltrator 1815]
1815]\\
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator;;;
;;;\\
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar;;;
;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human;;;
;;;
;;;\\
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise;;;
;;;\\
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify;;;
;;;\\
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise;;;
;;;\\
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise;;;
;;;
;;;\\
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR;;;
;;;\\
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET;;;
;;;\\
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY;;;
;;;\\
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW;;;
;;;\\
FOR THESTRO-STRO-\\
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar
Makron, request immediate permission to process human
;;;
;;;\\
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise
;;;
;;;\\
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW
FOR THE
Changed line(s) 667,668 (click to see context) from:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.9. Infiltrator 1815
Dear Databrain,
Dear Databrain,
to:
-> ''"Outgoing_Message[11294.9. Infiltrator 1815
1815\\
DearDatabrain,Databrain,\\
Dear
Is there an issue? Send a MessageReason:
None
Changed line(s) 213 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""Speak to me of the future," the Death Knight demanded. "Of the vision which grant you such mirth as your kin die, and perhaps I may continue to spare you."" The priestess cackled harder still, and told the slayer that upon him fell the many eyes of the Loam-Clad God, and the Black Goat from which he'd sprung. But only when the Death Knight heard His secrets spoken by the Gnarled Tongue of the WHisperin Tor, the God's own cairn, would he understand. In the Death Knight's head that diseased laughter echoed, never ceasing, until it eclipsed his every dream.''
to:
-> ''""Speak to me of the future," the Death Knight demanded. "Of the vision which grant you such mirth as your kin die, and perhaps I may continue to spare you."" The priestess cackled harder still, and told the slayer that upon him fell the many eyes of the Loam-Clad God, and the Black Goat from which he'd sprung. But only when the Death Knight heard His secrets spoken by the Gnarled Tongue of the WHisperin Whispering Tor, the God's own cairn, would he understand. In the Death Knight's head that diseased laughter echoed, never ceasing, until it eclipsed his every dream.''
Is there an issue? Send a MessageReason:
None
Changed line(s) 195 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"He styles himself a warrior-king, slayer without equal, conqueror even of death. He had a name, once. I do not speak it, and it matters not. It is merely what he was, not what he is. Even then, he loved only carnage, struck down any living thing in mindless fugues of fury, in endless raids and upon the fields of countless battles. But then, at least, he was moreal as other men. Would that he had died thus. Before the whispering Tor and the Black Goat of the Woods. All I speak now I know to be true, for I was there."''
Changed line(s) 198 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"In Duflyn, a great town of the Celtic Isles where the dragon-prowed longboats sought plunder and prey, did they battle gainst woad-painted defenders. Many who passed the morning with their feet in the sod and the soil feasted that eve in Valhalla. But he who was chief among the raiders, whom even that man who would become the Death Knight revered, was slain by no warrior but by a stealthy madman with a rusty blade. Then, cackling, did the lunatic elect to perish without a struggle at the Death Knight's hand, and the Knight assumed the dead man's place as chieftain."''
Changed line(s) 201 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Then was the Death Knight determined that this would be no simple raid, but he would ravage the isle entire. Briefly did his men halt their campaign, that they might return to their families with the news. None bu tI know specifically what befell between the Death Knight and the wife who awaited him at home, but many heard their shouts. That she, with child, needed him by her side. That he, at the thought of being homebound, raged at her - and at phantasms only he could hear."''
Changed line(s) 204 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"The hut grew silent. Around it the nervous villagers gathered, anxious and unsure. Then footsteps, heavy, house-shaking. The Death Knight, white-eyed, thew wide the door. Illuminated from behind, he sheathed his weighty sword. Looking neither right not left, he stepped slowly from the threshold in a daze and walked forward. As he passed, they saw his lips moving, mouthing some private eldritch litany. The Death Knight returned to the dragon-prowed boats, and not a one of his village dared raise a fist or speak a word in protest."''
Changed line(s) 207 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"West and west across the isle did the Death Knight lead his marauders. Against them stood, at first, painted warriors of great skill and berserk ferocity, who called upon their foreign gods. Lugh. Ogma. Morrigu. Then the townships grew sparser, the people more pallid and wide of gazze, and their gods boasted names scarce few could pronounce, as though formed for lips and tongues unlike those of men. Smoke-drunk druids shouted gibberish at the invaders, or called for the vengeance of the Loam-Clad God, whom they called the Speaker Under the Soil."''
Changed line(s) 210 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"On the outskirts of one distand township, within a cave of twisting branches and greenery that dangled in decay, the marauders found a circle of stones about an altar of cracking granite. On it lay an empty shroud sized for a young child. Here had gathered the village entire. Against the Death Knight they raised that shroud as a shield, and chanted the name Galena, but whatever power it held availed them little. Only a scant few survived the slaughter to follow, including a watching girl of perhaps eight winters, and a priestess who cackled madly as her people fell."''
Changed line(s) 213 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''""Speak to me of the future," the Death Knight demanded. "Of the vision which grant you such mirth as your kin die, and perhaps I may continue to spare you."" The priestess cackled harder still, and told the slayer that upon him fell the many eyes of the Loam-Clad God, and the Black Goat from which he'd sprung. But only when the Death Knight heard His secrets spoken by the Gnarled Tongue of the WHisperin Tor, the God's own cairn, would he understand. In the Death Knight's head that diseased laughter echoed, never ceasing, until it eclipsed his every dream.''
Changed line(s) 216 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Westward they continued still, and the Death Knight's mind fractured ever more. The laughter in his dreams turned to distant voices, beckoning and whispering, and they were dream-confined no longer but ever present. Brothers-in-arms called his name, enemies screamed their fury on the field, and he heard them not. Until amids the uncomprehensible murmurs he began to understand a word here, a phrase there. They directed, and he followed, breaking away one night from camp. And after many a mile lost in darkness, he came upon an unnatural rise, from which protruded a tree of yew, twisted and sickly."''
Changed line(s) 219 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"From this tree, the Gnarled Tongue, he took knowledge poisonous to his mind, and discolored fruits poisonous to his flesh. Swearing himself to the Black Goat of the Woods, he swallowed them whole. They tore at him, growing through his flesh, and he fell into ensorcelled slumber. Even then, after all he had done, I would have saved him. I would have embraced him and with my own hands torn the alien growths from his body. But soon he was gon, taken from this world even as he passed into new unholy life. And I am alone."''
Changed line(s) 222 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Grotesque berries of sickly, tainted purple with jagged burs and veins of diseased pilp collected from the corrupt yew tree that served as the tongue of the Speaker Under the Soil."''
Is there an issue? Send a MessageReason:
None
Changed line(s) 614 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.1. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Peeker,
Sorry I sent you out beyond the drone distance parameter. Overcautious since the incident. Now you're nonfunctional and waiting for a replacement neurocyte. Strange being droneless - lonely, even with perpetual Strogg communication. Why did Makron assign us gekk-clearing duty again, anyway? It knows what happened last time. It has been showing signs of irrationality lately. Don't tell it I said so. In better news, I have been assigned databrain courier duty for the second Earth harvesting wave! I am to protect it until it reaches its destination."''
Dear Peeker,
Sorry I sent you out beyond the drone distance parameter. Overcautious since the incident. Now you're nonfunctional and waiting for a replacement neurocyte. Strange being droneless - lonely, even with perpetual Strogg communication. Why did Makron assign us gekk-clearing duty again, anyway? It knows what happened last time. It has been showing signs of irrationality lately. Don't tell it I said so. In better news, I have been assigned databrain courier duty for the second Earth harvesting wave! I am to protect it until it reaches its destination."''
Changed line(s) 617 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.2. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational to record to you anyway. Peeker's memory is very limited. My deployment was cancelled. What is an infiltrator without its drone? Cerberon seems empty. Almost all Strogg were sent to harvest the humans. Those of us left on Stroggos have reduced stroyent rations. Most conserve energy. It is... quiet. Makron did not instruct me to transfer you to a fully effective Strogg before the second wave deployed, nor to return you to the research facility. So I will protect you until given further orders."''
Dear Databrain,
My drone is still offline. As long as you're inert, it is more rational to record to you anyway. Peeker's memory is very limited. My deployment was cancelled. What is an infiltrator without its drone? Cerberon seems empty. Almost all Strogg were sent to harvest the humans. Those of us left on Stroggos have reduced stroyent rations. Most conserve energy. It is... quiet. Makron did not instruct me to transfer you to a fully effective Strogg before the second wave deployed, nor to return you to the research facility. So I will protect you until given further orders."''
Changed line(s) 620 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.3. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived to attack us. What folly! Our EMP generator disabled hundreds of their assault pods in one burst. Their meat-filled metal shells pelted the surface of Stroggos. Some hang in low orbit, abandoned. My new directive: search for intact humans and bring them to Recieving. Bring all other human components to Processing. I am grateful for the work, even if it is tedious. I have identified no survivors. They are made weak by dependence on bodies made mostly of wet tissue."''
Dear Databrain,
Today it rained food! Food for the Strogg! The humans reverse-engineered our Slipdrive. A fleet of them arrived to attack us. What folly! Our EMP generator disabled hundreds of their assault pods in one burst. Their meat-filled metal shells pelted the surface of Stroggos. Some hang in low orbit, abandoned. My new directive: search for intact humans and bring them to Recieving. Bring all other human components to Processing. I am grateful for the work, even if it is tedious. I have identified no survivors. They are made weak by dependence on bodies made mostly of wet tissue."''
Changed line(s) 623 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.4. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used to its newly polished fins. Distracting. But at last I feel useful again. A guard reported a lone human survivor advancing toward the Outer Base. Makron has ordered all units to kill it on sight - except me. As the sole infiltrator left on Cerberon, my duty is to surveil the human and record its death. Makron gave me specific instructions not to engage the human in combat under any circumstances. Only me! Irrational, but I cannot question it, even if Makron seems... deranged."''
Dear Databrain,
Peeker has been fully restored! I am still getting used to its newly polished fins. Distracting. But at last I feel useful again. A guard reported a lone human survivor advancing toward the Outer Base. Makron has ordered all units to kill it on sight - except me. As the sole infiltrator left on Cerberon, my duty is to surveil the human and record its death. Makron gave me specific instructions not to engage the human in combat under any circumstances. Only me! Irrational, but I cannot question it, even if Makron seems... deranged."''
Changed line(s) 626 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.5. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
Peeker and I have tracked the human to the supply station. It is a good drone. I exalt Makron for my new mission! Cerberon has been so dull since the second wave deployment. Most remaining here are former Greiss, and transforming them to Strogg requires removal of most of the neocortex. So they do not communicate much. They mostly stand around in odd places waiting for an enemy target. Sometines any target. The human is the only entertainment. It has somehow fought its way through the primary munitions depot! Many guards and and enforcers have been reprocessed."''
Dear Databrain,
Peeker and I have tracked the human to the supply station. It is a good drone. I exalt Makron for my new mission! Cerberon has been so dull since the second wave deployment. Most remaining here are former Greiss, and transforming them to Strogg requires removal of most of the neocortex. So they do not communicate much. They mostly stand around in odd places waiting for an enemy target. Sometines any target. The human is the only entertainment. It has somehow fought its way through the primary munitions depot! Many guards and and enforcers have been reprocessed."''
Changed line(s) 629 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.6. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
I would not believe it had my drone and I not seen it ourselves! The human single-handedly assaulted the incarceration complex and disabled the security grid! This should not be possible. We are tailing it through the steedium mines now. It moves very quickly. I must follow at a distance shorter than protocol, because Peeker is reluctant to use its fill drone distance parameter. It can't be learned behaviour from its former damage. It must be the gekk cortical casing they used for its new neurocyte. Gekks are pack creatures. They are averse to being alone."''
Dear Databrain,
I would not believe it had my drone and I not seen it ourselves! The human single-handedly assaulted the incarceration complex and disabled the security grid! This should not be possible. We are tailing it through the steedium mines now. It moves very quickly. I must follow at a distance shorter than protocol, because Peeker is reluctant to use its fill drone distance parameter. It can't be learned behaviour from its former damage. It must be the gekk cortical casing they used for its new neurocyte. Gekks are pack creatures. They are averse to being alone."''
Changed line(s) 632 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.7. Infiltrator 1815]
Dear Databrain,
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging the primary reactor. I think its objective is to disable the EMP generator. Cerberon would be vulnerable! Will the human succeed? It seems unstoppable. It has disposed of hundereds of Strogg. A thick nanite fog hangs in the air from their reprocessing. I could stop the human. It has likely never encountered an infiltrator. It would not detect me. I would approach from behind and sever its brain stem. But I cannot question the Makron. Makron sees what I am seeing. I cannot. I must."''
Dear Databrain,
The situation is dire. The human is sabotaging the primary reactor. I think its objective is to disable the EMP generator. Cerberon would be vulnerable! Will the human succeed? It seems unstoppable. It has disposed of hundereds of Strogg. A thick nanite fog hangs in the air from their reprocessing. I could stop the human. It has likely never encountered an infiltrator. It would not detect me. I would approach from behind and sever its brain stem. But I cannot question the Makron. Makron sees what I am seeing. I cannot. I must."''
Changed line(s) 635 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.8. Infiltrator 1815]
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;
;;;
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;
;;;
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;
FOR THE STRO-
;;;"''
Makron, human has disabled EMP generator ;;;
Makron, human is nearing inner hangar ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human ;;;
;;;
Makron, human has disabled hangar doors : Advise ;;;
Makron, I do not understand "runes" or "magic" : Clarify ;;;
Makron, human has entered launch command : Advise ;;;
Makron, request immediate permission to process human: Advise ;;;
;;;
MAKRON, HUMAN IS NEARING SINGULARITY GENERATOR ;;;
MAKRON, I HAVE SENT DRONE TO STRIKE HUMAN TARGET ;;;
MAKRON, CONDONE MY SELF-WILL OR ADVISE IMMEDIATELY ;;;
MAKRON, I WILL STOP THE HUMAN NOW ;;;
FOR THE STRO-
;;;"''
Changed line(s) 638 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"Outgoing_Message[11294.9. Infiltrator 1815
Dear Databrain,
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There was a blast. I regained function after... a duration. The first thing I heard was Peeker circling me. I have sustained unidentified damage. Is it my neurocyte? I have lost communication with the Strogg. I concluded that my optoreceptors were damaged, because I was seeing a landscape that was not Stroggos. But remote drone vision shows the same place. The shockwave from the destroyed generator must have caused a spatial folding. I kept you safe, databrain. And at least Peeker is here with me. We must find stroyent."''
Dear Databrain,
I failed. The human destroyed the singularity generator. There was a blast. I regained function after... a duration. The first thing I heard was Peeker circling me. I have sustained unidentified damage. Is it my neurocyte? I have lost communication with the Strogg. I concluded that my optoreceptors were damaged, because I was seeing a landscape that was not Stroggos. But remote drone vision shows the same place. The shockwave from the destroyed generator must have caused a spatial folding. I kept you safe, databrain. And at least Peeker is here with me. We must find stroyent."''
Changed line(s) 641 (click to see context) from:
-> ''""''
to:
-> ''""''''"A Strogg databrain, still intact, intended to oversee the construction of a Strogg facility on Earth, at a site humans call "New Jersey." Cut off from the Strogg communication device, the databrain is useless except as a storage device connected to the two neurocytes nearby."''
Is there an issue? Send a MessageReason:
Fixing errors, also proper quote indentation.
Changed line(s) 3,9 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"Listen. You just got to listen to it all, got that? Because you want to understand. You need to understand. Right? Because only if you understand will you get it. Trust me. That will be important. How I managed to get all three—the world, the flesh and the devil—and decide that one of them had to go. Hey, hang on there. Not yet. Easy with that. Take it easy. Just 'cause the junk is free doesn't mean you just do it all at once, okay? Not okay. Not till you heard it all."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From Bloch Family Psychology Services intake report #4212: The client presented to the group with clear antisocial, narcissistic, and at times solipsistic behaviors. His affect seemed unusually flat for someone his age, save for his eyes, which kept scanning the clinicians. Guarded, struggling to conceal a great deal of information. Among other behaviors, the client would repeatedly rub his hands and touch his face, as if he needed reassurance that he was awake and real. As to the events that brought him here, he had no response other than—after a long pause—“I do not remember.”"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"From 911 dispatcher audio, August 5, 1996, 12:35 AM:\\
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From Bloch Family Psychology Services intake report #4212: The client presented to the group with clear antisocial, narcissistic, and at times solipsistic behaviors. His affect seemed unusually flat for someone his age, save for his eyes, which kept scanning the clinicians. Guarded, struggling to conceal a great deal of information. Among other behaviors, the client would repeatedly rub his hands and touch his face, as if he needed reassurance that he was awake and real. As to the events that brought him here, he had no response other than—after a long pause—“I do not remember.”"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"From 911 dispatcher audio, August 5, 1996, 12:35 AM:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 16,18 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"From records of District Court of Los Angeles, Spring Street, January 4, 2005:\\
--> ''"From records of District Court of Los Angeles, Spring Street, January 4, 2005:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 22,30 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Still listening? Still all ears? Good, good. It's a journey, right? Right. A real...journey. Blood, scars, all pointing one direction: the future. The world, the flesh, and the devil. But what if we could just dump the flesh? The small things I could do on my own. Some basic neurotech to control adrenaline. But still there was so much flesh, weighing me down. Oh, and then—so sad, so very sad...when the parental units shook off their own shabby flesh, turns out that all that money—as ill-gotten as could be—was all mine!"''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"The scientists wanted to back away, but...all that money. Useful in making them comply. One after the other, each with more knowledge. Some of those scientists, they had to be silenced. Can't have loose talk, isn't that right? Others I wanted to keep around, for whatever new idea I might have. But still—and always, you know?—there was the matter of my face. So much skin, so vulnerable! And the eyes! Wet balls of jelly, designed to fail. Windows to the soul, they say. But maybe they could be windows to somewhere else. I had to find out."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"From interrogation report, USC Military Research Center. Subject: Dr. Clarence Howell:\\
--> ''"Still listening? Still all ears? Good, good. It's a journey, right? Right. A real...journey. Blood, scars, all pointing one direction: the future. The world, the flesh, and the devil. But what if we could just dump the flesh? The small things I could do on my own. Some basic neurotech to control adrenaline. But still there was so much flesh, weighing me down. Oh, and then—so sad, so very sad...when the parental units shook off their own shabby flesh, turns out that all that money—as ill-gotten as could be—was all mine!"''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"The scientists wanted to back away, but...all that money. Useful in making them comply. One after the other, each with more knowledge. Some of those scientists, they had to be silenced. Can't have loose talk, isn't that right? Others I wanted to keep around, for whatever new idea I might have. But still—and always, you know?—there was the matter of my face. So much skin, so vulnerable! And the eyes! Wet balls of jelly, designed to fail. Windows to the soul, they say. But maybe they could be windows to somewhere else. I had to find out."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"From interrogation report, USC Military Research Center. Subject: Dr. Clarence Howell:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 32,41 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Still alive, my friend? Almost done here. After Dr. Howell, the universe opened up. Now not even the world was left. Now I saw worlds, new and terrible. Shall I describe them for you? The vast, terrible landscapes? The fumes stinking out of bottomless pits as these things crawled in and out? An engine of devouring and destroying, the screams constant, the roar of that horror. Non-stop. Sleep vanished, replaced by the constant vision of these places, each an arena of death and terror. But all I could do was see it! Just see! Or so I thought."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"So then I met this girl. Nicely modded. She saw me too, and with a wave, as if these hellish places were a new playground for transhumans like us, I knew I could go there. It would take more money to find the right docs and engineers and make them do my bidding. And it would take a minor sacrifice of flesh—here and there—to open the way. Not mine, sorry. But others. Like yours. You should be grateful for what you have enabled. What's about to happen won't be nice. But it will be transcendent. For me..."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The ripped right half of a denim jacket that has had its sleeves cut off, still covered with buttons, patches, safety pins, and graffiti, but also speckled with dried blood. It's been years since Anarki saw the jacket's other half, and he doesn't know whether it has been destroyed or not."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"Still alive, my friend? Almost done here. After Dr. Howell, the universe opened up. Now not even the world was left. Now I saw worlds, new and terrible. Shall I describe them for you? The vast, terrible landscapes? The fumes stinking out of bottomless pits as these things crawled in and out? An engine of devouring and destroying, the screams constant, the roar of that horror. Non-stop. Sleep vanished, replaced by the constant vision of these places, each an arena of death and terror. But all I could do was see it! Just see! Or so I thought."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"So then I met this girl. Nicely modded. She saw me too, and with a wave, as if these hellish places were a new playground for transhumans like us, I knew I could go there. It would take more money to find the right docs and engineers and make them do my bidding. And it would take a minor sacrifice of flesh—here and there—to open the way. Not mine, sorry. But others. Like yours. You should be grateful for what you have enabled. What's about to happen won't be nice. But it will be transcendent. For me..."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The ripped right half of a denim jacket that has had its sleeves cut off, still covered with buttons, patches, safety pins, and graffiti, but also speckled with dried blood. It's been years since Anarki saw the jacket's other half, and he doesn't know whether it has been destroyed or not."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 45 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"From incident report, Camp Bullis, San Antonio, Texas, May 1935.\\
to:
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-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From classified training summary, William J. Blazkowicz.\\
--> ''"From classified training summary, William J. Blazkowicz.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 52,54 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"From transcript, mission briefing, October 1944:\\
--> ''"From transcript, mission briefing, October 1944:\\
to:
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-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"From mission summary, November 1944:\\
--> ''"From mission summary, November 1944:\\
to:
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-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"From memo to OSA Director Joseph D. Hassett, July 1946:
--> ''"From memo to OSA Director Joseph D. Hassett, July 1946:
to:
Changed line(s) 72,74 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"From the journal of Dr. Krzysztof Oliwa, Zakład Psychiatryczny Maławieś:\\
--> ''"From the journal of Dr. Krzysztof Oliwa, Zakład Psychiatryczny Maławieś:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 76,78 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"From Anya Oliwa's statement, prepared for Caroline Becker:\\
--> ''"From Anya Oliwa's statement, prepared for Caroline Becker:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 80,82 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"From transcript, final mission briefing:\\
--> ''"From transcript, final mission briefing:\\
to:
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-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"From mission summary by Caroline Becker, February 1961:\\
--> ''"From mission summary by Caroline Becker, February 1961:\\
to:
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-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A mysterious Da'at Yichud dodecagon B.J. recovered from a secret vault within deep-sea trench. The Da'at Yichud was an ancient, mystical society whose inventions are so advanced that their working aren't fully understood to this day."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"A mysterious Da'at Yichud dodecagon B.J. recovered from a secret vault within deep-sea trench. The Da'at Yichud was an ancient, mystical society whose inventions are so advanced that their working aren't fully understood to this day."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 100 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
to:
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-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
to:
Changed line(s) 110,112 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Auton ... ining Unit, Miss ... gnation: C17 ... ological)\\
--> ''"Auton ... ining Unit, Miss ... gnation: C17 ... ological)\\
to:
Changed line(s) 115,117 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Command log, sub-AI root system, Artificial Neural Network, Mission Designation: Master Control\\
--> ''"Command log, sub-AI root system, Artificial Neural Network, Mission Designation: Master Control\\
to:
Changed line(s) 137,139 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"ANN Mission Designation: Master Control\\
--> ''"ANN Mission Designation: Master Control\\
to:
Changed line(s) 150,152 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17U(Technological)\\
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17U(Technological)\\
to:
Changed line(s) 161,163 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Autonomous Unit, Designation: C17U(Tech)\\
--> ''"Autonomous Unit, Designation: C17U(Tech)\\
to:
Changed line(s) 170,172 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Archimandrite Unit, Designation: C1U(Tech)\\
--> ''"Archimandrite Unit, Designation: C1U(Tech)\\
to:
Changed line(s) 179,181 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Designation: ClU(Tch)\\
--> ''"Designation: ClU(Tch)\\
to:
Changed line(s) 188,191 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The body of a jarbu, a tiny animal once carried by Mission Specialist Roseburne as a poisonous-gas detector in case of sensor malfunction. This one was killed not by gases, however, but a broken neck."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"The body of a jarbu, a tiny animal once carried by Mission Specialist Roseburne as a poisonous-gas detector in case of sensor malfunction. This one was killed not by gases, however, but a broken neck."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 195,223 (click to see context) from:
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 227,230 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"UAC File DM1-5: The history of this man remains conjecture. UAC archivists cataloged him DM1-5, but project personnel have dubbed him the “DOOM Marine.” An etching in the book of Daeva depicts the DOOM Marine wearing the Praetor suit, engaging demons in battle as a hooded figure looks on. Though previously observed numerous times in other artifacts, only with the actual discovery of the DOOM Marine and Praetor suit in the sealed Kadingir tomb have researchers begun to put other pieces together. It is now believed the DOOM Marine might have been part of an ancient group or tribe, maybe even their leader."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: I\\
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: I\\
to:
Changed line(s) 233,235 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: II:\\
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: II:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 238,240 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: III\\
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: III\\
to:
Changed line(s) 243,245 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: IV\\
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: IV\\
to:
Changed line(s) 248,250 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: V\\
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: V\\
to:
Changed line(s) 253,255 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VI\\
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VI\\
to:
Changed line(s) 258,260 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-I\\
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-I\\
to:
Changed line(s) 263,265 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-II\\
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-II\\
to:
Changed line(s) 268,271 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The left hind foot of Doom Slayer's pet rabbit, Daisy, killed by marauding demons when their invasion of Earth began. He carries it as a reminder of innocence lost, not for luck—after all, it wasn't lucky for Daisy."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"The left hind foot of Doom Slayer's pet rabbit, Daisy, killed by marauding demons when their invasion of Earth began. He carries it as a reminder of innocence lost, not for luck—after all, it wasn't lucky for Daisy."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 275 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"From the account of T'zik Oor, acolyte of the Gaunt Shepherd:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 277,279 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 281,289 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"The Seventh Book of the Old Kingdom made it clear what would be required of her. With her genuflecting, hooded attendants receding, this mortal girl—still a stripling!—was sent away to face He Who Walks in Blood, banished to the hissing realms where unspeakable things await any who stray from the cohort that protects them. And yet, Galena did not question this. Alone, she walked. Alone, and with no runes to protect her! She did not yet know that only by surviving would the black magic be revealed and granted to her at last."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"And which of the scenes from the Unholy Tapestry would become Galena's legend? Perhaps when she traversed the Swamp of the Never-Born, where fetal abominations devour each other endlessly. Or that when battling the Molten One, she did not retreat, even when the One melted into two, then three, enshrouding her in smoke and ash. Even with those terrors conquered, Galena—bloodied but unbowed—had yet to face the Shriek-Tutors of K'lor! Yet when she called on her own dark might, Galena was their equal, striking fear into those from whom fear is born!"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
--> ''"The Seventh Book of the Old Kingdom made it clear what would be required of her. With her genuflecting, hooded attendants receding, this mortal girl—still a stripling!—was sent away to face He Who Walks in Blood, banished to the hissing realms where unspeakable things await any who stray from the cohort that protects them. And yet, Galena did not question this. Alone, she walked. Alone, and with no runes to protect her! She did not yet know that only by surviving would the black magic be revealed and granted to her at last."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"And which of the scenes from the Unholy Tapestry would become Galena's legend? Perhaps when she traversed the Swamp of the Never-Born, where fetal abominations devour each other endlessly. Or that when battling the Molten One, she did not retreat, even when the One melted into two, then three, enshrouding her in smoke and ash. Even with those terrors conquered, Galena—bloodied but unbowed—had yet to face the Shriek-Tutors of K'lor! Yet when she called on her own dark might, Galena was their equal, striking fear into those from whom fear is born!"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
to:
Changed line(s) 291,306 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"And when Galena came of age, her Summoning still to come, all her fearsome power had to be tamed. Her eyes revealed that she no longer clung to the feeble morality of her birth-world—only to power, strength, brutal survival. Now she would be called by an Ichor Mage to learn the Lesson of Lessons. But all who saw her, frightened by her wild might, wondered: Could even a deathless Ichor Mage bring her power to heel? If not, what fate would He Who Walks in Blood choose for her? We could only wait as the ink-ice formed in our throats."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"All the creatures of the Lambent Realm fell silent and motionless that day, awaiting the exquisite battle between master and acolyte. The Ash-Swimmers claimed the battle itself would be less a test than a demonstration of the Ichor Mage's dark prowess. But Galena had learned much, discarded much. Tears and smiles mattered not. Wounds counted for nothing. Fear had been banished. Now, there was merely this last challenge: to defeat the Mage. Could even the great Volkerh not be gripped, held by the horror and wonder of the battle to come?"''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"The Ichor Mage lay still. Galena had won. Whispers came first, then chants, laughter, even screams. Let the Summoning begin!, as the Attendants' voices also joined, until the cries became a roar that could be heard even to the Pool of Night. Galena then began the final journey: to stand alone before the shattering abyssal power of Volkerh! Could she return alive? Could she return sane? So many others had walked the Path only to join the creatures of the pit, once powerful, now trapped in the agonizing slaughter-mire of the ancients."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"No one witnessed. No words were recorded. But the Gaunt Shepherd himself awoke from his slumber that night. Only visions, some might say. But the Shepherd saw that Volkerh had appeared—that the tatters and claws of the Ineffable One had encloaked Galena! That she raised her weapon to taste the power of the ancient god, to make her rise above all who would soon kneel in obeisance to her! At dreams' end, in this realm of secrets and scythe-blades, Galena had met the call, had been embraced by He Who Walks in Blood, and had become Volkerh's unholy paladin!"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A human child's ragdoll, scorched and threadbare, with only blackened scratches for eyes. Treated by some as a sacred relic, the doll must be kept far away from Galena, who wants to obliterate any trace of connection to her birth-world."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"And when Galena came of age, her Summoning still to come, all her fearsome power had to be tamed. Her eyes revealed that she no longer clung to the feeble morality of her birth-world—only to power, strength, brutal survival. Now she would be called by an Ichor Mage to learn the Lesson of Lessons. But all who saw her, frightened by her wild might, wondered: Could even a deathless Ichor Mage bring her power to heel? If not, what fate would He Who Walks in Blood choose for her? We could only wait as the ink-ice formed in our throats."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"All the creatures of the Lambent Realm fell silent and motionless that day, awaiting the exquisite battle between master and acolyte. The Ash-Swimmers claimed the battle itself would be less a test than a demonstration of the Ichor Mage's dark prowess. But Galena had learned much, discarded much. Tears and smiles mattered not. Wounds counted for nothing. Fear had been banished. Now, there was merely this last challenge: to defeat the Mage. Could even the great Volkerh not be gripped, held by the horror and wonder of the battle to come?"''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"The Ichor Mage lay still. Galena had won. Whispers came first, then chants, laughter, even screams. Let the Summoning begin!, as the Attendants' voices also joined, until the cries became a roar that could be heard even to the Pool of Night. Galena then began the final journey: to stand alone before the shattering abyssal power of Volkerh! Could she return alive? Could she return sane? So many others had walked the Path only to join the creatures of the pit, once powerful, now trapped in the agonizing slaughter-mire of the ancients."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"No one witnessed. No words were recorded. But the Gaunt Shepherd himself awoke from his slumber that night. Only visions, some might say. But the Shepherd saw that Volkerh had appeared—that the tatters and claws of the Ineffable One had encloaked Galena! That she raised her weapon to taste the power of the ancient god, to make her rise above all who would soon kneel in obeisance to her! At dreams' end, in this realm of secrets and scythe-blades, Galena had met the call, had been embraced by He Who Walks in Blood, and had become Volkerh's unholy paladin!"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A human child's ragdoll, scorched and threadbare, with only blackened scratches for eyes. Treated by some as a sacred relic, the doll must be kept far away from Galena, who wants to obliterate any trace of connection to her birth-world."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 310,311 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"Transcript of last perimeter contact pre-engagement, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
B: KEEL, LCpl: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
B: KEEL, LCpl: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
to:
B: KEEL,
Changed line(s) 322,324 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Partial transcript of post-engagement field report, S&R Unit Bravo, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
--> ''"Partial transcript of post-engagement field report, S&R Unit Bravo, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
to:
Changed line(s) 334,336 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Partial transcript of pre-op log 5, Project Osiris\\
--> ''"Partial transcript of pre-op log 5, Project Osiris\\
to:
Changed line(s) 342,344 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
to:
Changed line(s) 347,349 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neutral interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neutral interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
to:
Changed line(s) 353,355 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
to:
Changed line(s) 358,360 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
to:
Changed line(s) 364,366 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Transcript of partial testing procedure, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
--> ''"Transcript of partial testing procedure, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
to:
Changed line(s) 378,380 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Final transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
--> ''"Final transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
to:
Changed line(s) 386,389 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A slightly damaged slice of Memaw's Salty Honey Pie that Keel stores in a small vacuum chamber within his cybernetics. He intends to save it for “a really bad day.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"A slightly damaged slice of Memaw's Salty Honey Pie that Keel stores in a small vacuum chamber within his cybernetics. He intends to save it for “a really bad day.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 393 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open A: Why in the name of all the heavens am I being called up again so damn soon? I just got back from an off-world intel run a week ago! Whatever's come up, surely one of the others in Wraith Unit can handle it.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 396,398 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: I can't believe it. I've been excused for a recess, and I'm just as happy to be out of there. Gives me time to wrap my head around it. The Orb. One of the Greiss marauders has somehow breached the Fathom Orb.\\
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: I can't believe it. I've been excused for a recess, and I'm just as happy to be out of there. Gives me time to wrap my head around it. The Orb. One of the Greiss marauders has somehow breached the Fathom Orb.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 401,403 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: They're still debating. Even after summoning me, knowing what's at stake, half of those political cowards don't want to send me in. Old laws, holy doctrine, blah, blah, blah. It's a heap of mog-shit. Unless they want a Ghostwalking enemy bent on conquest. I'm sure their “highest laws” will bring them great comfort while we're all being slaughtered.\\
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: They're still debating. Even after summoning me, knowing what's at stake, half of those political cowards don't want to send me in. Old laws, holy doctrine, blah, blah, blah. It's a heap of mog-shit. Unless they want a Ghostwalking enemy bent on conquest. I'm sure their “highest laws” will bring them great comfort while we're all being slaughtered.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 406,408 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open F: I had never seen the Fathom Shrine in person before. It's magnificent—or would be if it weren't for the weapon damage and blood spatter.\\
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open F: I had never seen the Fathom Shrine in person before. It's magnificent—or would be if it weren't for the weapon damage and blood spatter.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 411,413 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: This makes no sense. There's more than enough ruin, soot, and particulate to track the intruder. And that's the problem. I'm finding evidence of only one intruder. One set of prints. One energy signature. There is no way a single Greiss could penetrate the shrine's defenses, and yet... If I didn't know better, I'd wonder if they had already somehow accessed the Ghostwalk.\\
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: This makes no sense. There's more than enough ruin, soot, and particulate to track the intruder. And that's the problem. I'm finding evidence of only one intruder. One set of prints. One energy signature. There is no way a single Greiss could penetrate the shrine's defenses, and yet... If I didn't know better, I'd wonder if they had already somehow accessed the Ghostwalk.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 416,418 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, personal addendum: Reached the inner chambers. The carvings ... most are abstract, but the figures stepping out of blocks and columns are clearly Ghostwalkers. Probably the first.\\
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, personal addendum: Reached the inner chambers. The carvings ... most are abstract, but the figures stepping out of blocks and columns are clearly Ghostwalkers. Probably the first.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 423,425 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: Holy Ibramel, it's beautiful. The refraction, every color and none. Ghostpetals growing all over; I've never seen a real one before. And it sings to me.... I wonder if this is a defense, too. How many people meant to breach the Orb, and just got trapped here?\\
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: Holy Ibramel, it's beautiful. The refraction, every color and none. Ghostpetals growing all over; I've never seen a real one before. And it sings to me.... I wonder if this is a defense, too. How many people meant to breach the Orb, and just got trapped here?\\
to:
Changed line(s) 428,430 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open G: Through. Don't know how long; lost track. I'll try to recapture what I....\\
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open G: Through. Don't know how long; lost track. I'll try to recapture what I....\\
to:
Changed line(s) 435,437 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"1301-G, Mission Log, cont.: I don't know where I am. Maybe the Greiss caused it to lead here. It's like a butcher's nightmare.\\
--> ''"1301-G, Mission Log, cont.: I don't know where I am. Maybe the Greiss caused it to lead here. It's like a butcher's nightmare.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 440,443 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"Ghostpetals, a translucent, semi-intangible plant that grows only near the Fathom Orb, permanently phased by its energy. A reminder of home, and what's at stake."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"Ghostpetals, a translucent, semi-intangible plant that grows only near the Fathom Orb, permanently phased by its energy. A reminder of home, and what's at stake."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 447,475 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"Not much of a writer. But I have to get some things down on paper before my brain turns to mush. Some of the important stuff is already gone. Can't remember what my own goddamn name is, for instance. It's gotta be something about this place. It messes up my thoughts. The only time I can focus is when I'm fighting. As soon as the fighting stops, it's like a fog rolls into my head. But I'll get it written down. I have to, for Annie and the kids. If I forgot them, I'll never find a way out of this hellhole."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Seems like a hundred years since I got that call at 0400. I hauled my ass to the Slipgate Complex, but the shit had already hit the fan. Marines bleeding from their eyes, some kind of half-done mods in their skin, all of them trying to kill me. Even a couple guys I knew. Commander was AWOL. The place was a maze. It was like the worst dream I'd ever had. But I know how to follow orders. I just had to find "Quake" and kill it. No time to think about what the hell I was seeing."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"They didn't tell me much about the Slipgate. They had hired some creepy egghead to build it in the underground levels - Gilman, I think his name was. But what else was he doing down there? Why was the facility laid out like a death trap? When I used the first Slipgate, I got zapped to somewhere else, but it looked the same. Had they already gone through and built a base on the other side? What about those psycho Marines, the poor bastards? Who did that to them? Was it Quake, or was it Gilman?"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Doesn't make any sense. I was fighting for my life as soon as I got there, and then things just kept getting darker and weirder. There were other Slipgates, and I went through them. Nowhere else to go. No idea where they were leading to. I just shot at anything that moved, and I've been shooting ever since. Feels like the night terrors I got after Vietnam. Maybe the whole thing really is just a bad nightmare. What else would explain any of it? Somebody wake me up. My wife and kids need me."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Those runes I found. Every time I found one, my head flooded with stuff I wasn't supposed to know. Stuff no one should know. That's how I learned what Quake was: Shub-Ngurath. A pile of letters for a pile of tentacles. But those Slipgates led me to all four runes. Did someone or something want me to find them? Without them I never would've gotten to that squirming heap. Never would've found the Orb I used to kill her. The game-winning pass. I thought for sure I'd get to go home after that. No such luck."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"I've had this damn Orb ever since. Not that different from a football, except I get to play QB and running back at the same time. And nothing beats catching your own pass and killing some bad guy in the process. Sometimes I call out plays in my head during fights. Helps me keep the memories I left. Miskatonic. The Fightin' Badgers. I was pretty good back in the day Not good enough to go pro, but enough to be the hometown hero a couple of times. Annie tells me I was clueless. She's probably right. She usually is."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Need to stay sane, or whatever passes for sane here. Gotta be careful remembering Annie. Don't want to turn her into some story I tell myself. So I try to remember the bad parts, too. How mad she was when I enlisted, how low she got after K was born. But damn I miss her. Everybody should have someone who looks at them the way she looks at me. We've always made it through the rough times. I hope we'll make it through this, too. I hope she can forgive me for being gone so long."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"One of the worst things about losing my mind in here: I can't remember my kids' names. I call them J and K now. Our firstborn was a girl. Tough as nails. When she busted her arm on the jungle gym, she tried to comfort her mom on the way to the ER. I cried at her graduation. Annie had fun with that. A couple years later J arrived. He had me figured out in no time. So smart that kid. I haven't gotten a chance to tell him how proud I am of him. But I will, goddamnit."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"I used to try to keep track of time here, but it's no use. The sky makes no sense. Some places seem to have day and night but most don't. Feels like years, but I don't feel any older. When I manage to sleep, I can't tell whether it's for minutes, hours, or days. Maybe no time has passed at all back home. I'll get out of here and crawl back into bed with my wife. She'll let me sleep in. I'll talk her into making me pancakes and bacon in the morning. That's the way it's gonna go."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A crumpled, thirty-year-old family photograph is Ranger's most prized possession and his only tangible link to life before Operation Counterstrike. A faded ballpoint scribble on the back reads, “Haverhill - Beach St - 1978.” Ranger keeps the photo between layers of his armored boot to ensure that no harm comes to it."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Seems like a hundred years since I got that call at 0400. I hauled my ass to the Slipgate Complex, but the shit had already hit the fan. Marines bleeding from their eyes, some kind of half-done mods in their skin, all of them trying to kill me. Even a couple guys I knew. Commander was AWOL. The place was a maze. It was like the worst dream I'd ever had. But I know how to follow orders. I just had to find "Quake" and kill it. No time to think about what the hell I was seeing."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"They didn't tell me much about the Slipgate. They had hired some creepy egghead to build it in the underground levels - Gilman, I think his name was. But what else was he doing down there? Why was the facility laid out like a death trap? When I used the first Slipgate, I got zapped to somewhere else, but it looked the same. Had they already gone through and built a base on the other side? What about those psycho Marines, the poor bastards? Who did that to them? Was it Quake, or was it Gilman?"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Doesn't make any sense. I was fighting for my life as soon as I got there, and then things just kept getting darker and weirder. There were other Slipgates, and I went through them. Nowhere else to go. No idea where they were leading to. I just shot at anything that moved, and I've been shooting ever since. Feels like the night terrors I got after Vietnam. Maybe the whole thing really is just a bad nightmare. What else would explain any of it? Somebody wake me up. My wife and kids need me."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Those runes I found. Every time I found one, my head flooded with stuff I wasn't supposed to know. Stuff no one should know. That's how I learned what Quake was: Shub-Ngurath. A pile of letters for a pile of tentacles. But those Slipgates led me to all four runes. Did someone or something want me to find them? Without them I never would've gotten to that squirming heap. Never would've found the Orb I used to kill her. The game-winning pass. I thought for sure I'd get to go home after that. No such luck."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"I've had this damn Orb ever since. Not that different from a football, except I get to play QB and running back at the same time. And nothing beats catching your own pass and killing some bad guy in the process. Sometimes I call out plays in my head during fights. Helps me keep the memories I left. Miskatonic. The Fightin' Badgers. I was pretty good back in the day Not good enough to go pro, but enough to be the hometown hero a couple of times. Annie tells me I was clueless. She's probably right. She usually is."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Need to stay sane, or whatever passes for sane here. Gotta be careful remembering Annie. Don't want to turn her into some story I tell myself. So I try to remember the bad parts, too. How mad she was when I enlisted, how low she got after K was born. But damn I miss her. Everybody should have someone who looks at them the way she looks at me. We've always made it through the rough times. I hope we'll make it through this, too. I hope she can forgive me for being gone so long."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"One of the worst things about losing my mind in here: I can't remember my kids' names. I call them J and K now. Our firstborn was a girl. Tough as nails. When she busted her arm on the jungle gym, she tried to comfort her mom on the way to the ER. I cried at her graduation. Annie had fun with that. A couple years later J arrived. He had me figured out in no time. So smart that kid. I haven't gotten a chance to tell him how proud I am of him. But I will, goddamnit."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"I used to try to keep track of time here, but it's no use. The sky makes no sense. Some places seem to have day and night but most don't. Feels like years, but I don't feel any older. When I manage to sleep, I can't tell whether it's for minutes, hours, or days. Maybe no time has passed at all back home. I'll get out of here and crawl back into bed with my wife. She'll let me sleep in. I'll talk her into making me pancakes and bacon in the morning. That's the way it's gonna go."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A crumpled, thirty-year-old family photograph is Ranger's most prized possession and his only tangible link to life before Operation Counterstrike. A faded ballpoint scribble on the back reads, “Haverhill - Beach St - 1978.” Ranger keeps the photo between layers of his armored boot to ensure that no harm comes to it."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 479,485 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"The Uurd have fallen. I leave behind a garrison and military governor to shape their future as another cog in the Greiss war machine. The Drikt Sector campaign nears its end; this campaign may be my last. Perhaps the time has come to return to the Greiss Dominion, to consolidate my conquests and rule rather than expand, to cement my position in the Empire. But I've time yet to consider. We have one more world ahead of us, though it should yield even more readily than most. A soft, weak place controlled by a race called the Melem."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"What sort of cowardly, fatherless egg-clutchers have my soldiers become? Has this campaign gone so easily for them that they have forgotten what it means to be Greiss? The Melem are nothing! Weaklings! Pacifists! Yet every report I receive is defeat after defeat, burbling some nonsense about “phantom enemies.” As if we'd never before dealt with stealth technology! I had planned to supervise from the command ship, but clearly I must take a personal hand. And I've not decided yet whether the Melem or my own incompetent officers shall suffer the worse for it!"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"I stagger through the wreckage of our siege engines. I'm dizzy; one of those cursed phantom warriors passed through me, and my mind feels as though they left something within it. The smoke burns my eyes, but I welcome it. Without it I would be forced to stare at the incoming holographic message instead of only hearing it.\\
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"What sort of cowardly, fatherless egg-clutchers have my soldiers become? Has this campaign gone so easily for them that they have forgotten what it means to be Greiss? The Melem are nothing! Weaklings! Pacifists! Yet every report I receive is defeat after defeat, burbling some nonsense about “phantom enemies.” As if we'd never before dealt with stealth technology! I had planned to supervise from the command ship, but clearly I must take a personal hand. And I've not decided yet whether the Melem or my own incompetent officers shall suffer the worse for it!"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"I stagger through the wreckage of our siege engines. I'm dizzy; one of those cursed phantom warriors passed through me, and my mind feels as though they left something within it. The smoke burns my eyes, but I welcome it. Without it I would be forced to stare at the incoming holographic message instead of only hearing it.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 488,490 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"I must know. I will know.\\
--> ''"I must know. I will know.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 493,495 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"I have seen it! Fatigue finally took me, and in my dreams I have seen it! A great orb, made of plasma and power and the desires of they who dwell between worlds. The Melem did not create this wonder, they merely harnessed it. And I will have it!\\
--> ''"I have seen it! Fatigue finally took me, and in my dreams I have seen it! A great orb, made of plasma and power and the desires of they who dwell between worlds. The Melem did not create this wonder, they merely harnessed it. And I will have it!\\
to:
Changed line(s) 498,500 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Another failure. And these fools call themselves scientists! Yet, we were close. Even amid the sparks and strobes, I saw them through the walls of this reality: Things reaching for us, watching, wanting, needing. I saw them, and they saw me.\\
--> ''"Another failure. And these fools call themselves scientists! Yet, we were close. Even amid the sparks and strobes, I saw them through the walls of this reality: Things reaching for us, watching, wanting, needing. I saw them, and they saw me.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 503,505 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"The dreams come nightly now. Black cities of impossible angles, built on foundations of broken universes. And within them dwell gods, their eyes turned in our direction. It is because the scientists' partial failures have linked me with the Melem's orb. I know it, and I know the wisdom and the power within that orb must belong to the Greiss. To me.\\
--> ''"The dreams come nightly now. Black cities of impossible angles, built on foundations of broken universes. And within them dwell gods, their eyes turned in our direction. It is because the scientists' partial failures have linked me with the Melem's orb. I know it, and I know the wisdom and the power within that orb must belong to the Greiss. To me.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 508,510 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"As I anticipated, the gods within the Orb have made their preference known. I have awakened from my dreams to halls stained with blood and shredded flesh. A pity they slew my entire team, rather than merely the traitors Auvor and Thrrim, but no matter.\\
--> ''"As I anticipated, the gods within the Orb have made their preference known. I have awakened from my dreams to halls stained with blood and shredded flesh. A pity they slew my entire team, rather than merely the traitors Auvor and Thrrim, but no matter.\\
to:
Changed line(s) 513,515 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"The guardians of the shrine fall before me. The wards fail in my presence. I see it now, greater even than I dreamt, flashing and phasing before me, and I wonder: Why accept the aid of gods when I might become one? Why settle for conquering star systems when I might sit upon the throne of a universe?\\
--> ''"The guardians of the shrine fall before me. The wards fail in my presence. I see it now, greater even than I dreamt, flashing and phasing before me, and I wonder: Why accept the aid of gods when I might become one? Why settle for conquering star systems when I might sit upon the throne of a universe?\\
to:
Changed line(s) 518,521 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A cracked medal of service to the Greiss Dominion, with shredded ribbon: a sign of defeat—kindling to stoke the fires of revenge. "''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"A cracked medal of service to the Greiss Dominion, with shredded ribbon: a sign of defeat—kindling to stoke the fires of revenge. "''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 525 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"Officer Dinah Hardwicke\\
to:
Changed line(s) 530,532 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
to:
Changed line(s) 535,537 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
to:
Changed line(s) 540,542 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
to:
Changed line(s) 545,547 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
to:
Changed line(s) 552,554 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
to:
Changed line(s) 557,559 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
to:
Changed line(s) 562,564 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
to:
Changed line(s) 566 (click to see context) from:
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return to the alley for their fix eventually. One or both of them will lead me to Mamonov.
to:
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return to the alley for their fix eventually. One or both of them will lead me to Mamonov.\\
Changed line(s) 570,572 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
to:
Changed line(s) 575,578 (click to see context) from:
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A small music box, well over 100 years old, containing a figurine of an ice-skater who turns to Swan Lake. The mechanism is old and worn, as well as coated with wisps of cobweb, yet continues to play perfectly."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
--> ''"A small music box, well over 100 years old, containing a figurine of an ice-skater who turns to Swan Lake. The mechanism is old and worn, as well as coated with wisps of cobweb, yet continues to play perfectly."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 582,610 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"It had been whispered for centuries: that after the fall, a hatchling with a dire destiny would emerge from a scarred egg. The voice of the Haruspex called for silence the barren cavern as the tribe huddled near the blaze of the fire. Any emergence was cause for the tribe to stop and observe. But with an egg so marked, all eyes watched. The first tearing of the egg began slowly; yet even as a hatchling, this one emerged with a violence and speed that made even the old ones recoil, hissing into the night."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"The Haruspex began the chant, filled with sounds and phrases that, though seemingly gibberish, struck fear in all who heard. That chant, in a tongue forgotten by all but a few ancients, spoke of the Other Place, its awesome power and mind-searing horrors, and of the Sorg's fateful connection to it. And then the old Haruspex's voice rose to a roar as he slowly held aloft the still curled, glair-covered hatchling and pronounced its name. Sorlag. And all looked up to the hatchling, even now struggling to be free from the grasp that held it."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"The clan's minders knew the legend that foretold of this special one. So they raised and trained Sorlag with great caution. And soon her strength indeed became something to fear. But although each minder concealed their fears, the truth became obvious to the whole clan: Sorlag knew no fear or pity, and she never would. The day came when all that remained to teach her were the Sorg ways of hunting, raiding, and killing. Others learned this slowly. Not Sorlag. Her taste for blood, for meat, for destruction drove her faster than the minders would go."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"The Haruspex gave a command: Let Sorlag join a raid. But first, she must come to him—to learn secrets that, even at such an early age, should bring doubts and difficult questions. With the stone walls surrounding him, filled with the ancient carvings and the colors of quickly painted images, the Haruspex said, “Look,” pointing to it all. And did Sorlag give the ancient images even a cursory glance? No, said those who dared edge close enough to the chamber to bear witness. But the Haruspex extended a curled claw to her indifferent chin, to make Sorlag understand."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"The Sorg once ruled the world. Only five great clans existed, and they lived in sprawling cities. There was peace. But long after the Fall, the warmbloods rose to plunder our world! They had machines to dig and to think and to kill. They tried to banish us from our own lands. They tried to kill every Sorg, even smashing scores of our eggs before the hatchlings could draw their first breath. The Sorg retreated to the caves—these caves. And with one world gone, we made another. We would survive. We would fight. But then the Oruk created their own downfall."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Sorlag stood up, hissing at the tale. She walked past the Haruspex and opened her mouth, tasting acrid air. Acid built in her throat, eager for a target, as she laid a claw on one image. A machine to kill Sorg. The Haruspex nodded. “Many, many cycles ago, Oruk machines learned the buried secret of the Other Place, with its blood, death, and horror. The machines passed the secret into the Oruk. The portal opened. In their madness some fled into it, no longer masters. They were like chunks of meat thrown to hungry beasts. This was the Oruks' Fall.”"''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Sorlag left the cave. Those who had gathered outside backed away from her. Had the place and its story made her understand the Sorg ways? Had it made her even more brutal, more deadly? As they returned to the clan grounds, no one spoke—not even the Haruspex! Days later, when the clan grew hungry and the cycle demanded it was time to hunt the wandering, wild warmbloods and raid their camps, Sorlag took up weapons and strode to the front to lead. None questioned her right to be there. None questioned her seizing of leadership. None dared."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"And that hunt would create unending strife for Sorlag and for all Sorg, for when a warmblood band is found, only one Sorg clan may claim it. The harvesting, slaughter, and slaves are for that clan alone! Only this law keeps an uneasy peace between the many raiding clans. But that night, Sorlag and her raiders found a group of Oruk pinned against a sheer cliff as another Sorg warband closed in—from a distant clan Sorlag did not know. Her raiders began to turn away, but Sorlag stopped them. She spoke only one chilling word: “Ours.”"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Then Sorg fought Sorg as the warmbloods cowered. Sorlag's bloodlust only grew with each kill. Suddenly, gunfire from above! Sorlag spun around to find her raiders dead, and the other clan's raiders fleeing. She whirled back. There atop the cliff was an Oruk woman in a feathered headdress, her gun's barrel still glowing red with heat. Sorlag leapt to the cliff and scaled it with her bare claws, but by the time she reached the top, the Hunter was gone. Sorlag had found her destiny. She would kill this Hunter ... even if it meant following her into the Other Place."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A clutch of feathers tied to shard of bone. The feathers were the only sign of Hunter that Sorlag found at the clifftop on the night of their first confrontation; they serve as a talisman to stoke her wrath."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"The Haruspex began the chant, filled with sounds and phrases that, though seemingly gibberish, struck fear in all who heard. That chant, in a tongue forgotten by all but a few ancients, spoke of the Other Place, its awesome power and mind-searing horrors, and of the Sorg's fateful connection to it. And then the old Haruspex's voice rose to a roar as he slowly held aloft the still curled, glair-covered hatchling and pronounced its name. Sorlag. And all looked up to the hatchling, even now struggling to be free from the grasp that held it."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"The clan's minders knew the legend that foretold of this special one. So they raised and trained Sorlag with great caution. And soon her strength indeed became something to fear. But although each minder concealed their fears, the truth became obvious to the whole clan: Sorlag knew no fear or pity, and she never would. The day came when all that remained to teach her were the Sorg ways of hunting, raiding, and killing. Others learned this slowly. Not Sorlag. Her taste for blood, for meat, for destruction drove her faster than the minders would go."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"The Haruspex gave a command: Let Sorlag join a raid. But first, she must come to him—to learn secrets that, even at such an early age, should bring doubts and difficult questions. With the stone walls surrounding him, filled with the ancient carvings and the colors of quickly painted images, the Haruspex said, “Look,” pointing to it all. And did Sorlag give the ancient images even a cursory glance? No, said those who dared edge close enough to the chamber to bear witness. But the Haruspex extended a curled claw to her indifferent chin, to make Sorlag understand."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"The Sorg once ruled the world. Only five great clans existed, and they lived in sprawling cities. There was peace. But long after the Fall, the warmbloods rose to plunder our world! They had machines to dig and to think and to kill. They tried to banish us from our own lands. They tried to kill every Sorg, even smashing scores of our eggs before the hatchlings could draw their first breath. The Sorg retreated to the caves—these caves. And with one world gone, we made another. We would survive. We would fight. But then the Oruk created their own downfall."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Sorlag stood up, hissing at the tale. She walked past the Haruspex and opened her mouth, tasting acrid air. Acid built in her throat, eager for a target, as she laid a claw on one image. A machine to kill Sorg. The Haruspex nodded. “Many, many cycles ago, Oruk machines learned the buried secret of the Other Place, with its blood, death, and horror. The machines passed the secret into the Oruk. The portal opened. In their madness some fled into it, no longer masters. They were like chunks of meat thrown to hungry beasts. This was the Oruks' Fall.”"''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Sorlag left the cave. Those who had gathered outside backed away from her. Had the place and its story made her understand the Sorg ways? Had it made her even more brutal, more deadly? As they returned to the clan grounds, no one spoke—not even the Haruspex! Days later, when the clan grew hungry and the cycle demanded it was time to hunt the wandering, wild warmbloods and raid their camps, Sorlag took up weapons and strode to the front to lead. None questioned her right to be there. None questioned her seizing of leadership. None dared."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"And that hunt would create unending strife for Sorlag and for all Sorg, for when a warmblood band is found, only one Sorg clan may claim it. The harvesting, slaughter, and slaves are for that clan alone! Only this law keeps an uneasy peace between the many raiding clans. But that night, Sorlag and her raiders found a group of Oruk pinned against a sheer cliff as another Sorg warband closed in—from a distant clan Sorlag did not know. Her raiders began to turn away, but Sorlag stopped them. She spoke only one chilling word: “Ours.”"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Then Sorg fought Sorg as the warmbloods cowered. Sorlag's bloodlust only grew with each kill. Suddenly, gunfire from above! Sorlag spun around to find her raiders dead, and the other clan's raiders fleeing. She whirled back. There atop the cliff was an Oruk woman in a feathered headdress, her gun's barrel still glowing red with heat. Sorlag leapt to the cliff and scaled it with her bare claws, but by the time she reached the top, the Hunter was gone. Sorlag had found her destiny. She would kill this Hunter ... even if it meant following her into the Other Place."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A clutch of feathers tied to shard of bone. The feathers were the only sign of Hunter that Sorlag found at the clifftop on the night of their first confrontation; they serve as a talisman to stoke her wrath."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 614,642 (click to see context) from:
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Changed line(s) 646,675 (click to see context) from:
--> ''"*CLASSIFIED* - Intercepted correspondence from GRU official “FLUKE,” real name REDACTED, to KGB official “TRAPDOOR,” real name [REDACTED] - 20 MAR 1990 - FLUKE: Three of our republics have elected ethnic nationalists. We project another three will do so imminently. Soviet control eroding faster than projections. We have fast-tracked Project Mountain King. [REDACTED] reports that Soldier Prime, a genetic hybrid of Spetsgruppa A elites and Black Dolphin prisoners, is now a viable embryo in vitro. Accelerated maturation procedures have begun. Design of cybernetic enhancements is nearly complete."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work in Leningrad was successful but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect of the paranormal experiments and will not be present in clones, unfortunately."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution to the congenital sight impairment of the 20 clones of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of the vaults."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto the face. Removal reveals full enucleation and unknown runes cut into the flesh around the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances and disembodied, unintelligible whispers after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived and have returned for training. Initial evaluation of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject to your team for reverse engineering."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can from the corpse. Recommend you do the same. A document in braille was found in a body cavity of the slain clone. Investigating."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime and Visor were deployed in the Battle of Grozny to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both.
"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route to a covert military complex in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible on screen should read as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work in Leningrad was successful but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect of the paranormal experiments and will not be present in clones, unfortunately."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution to the congenital sight impairment of the 20 clones of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of the vaults."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto the face. Removal reveals full enucleation and unknown runes cut into the flesh around the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances and disembodied, unintelligible whispers after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived and have returned for training. Initial evaluation of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject to your team for reverse engineering."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can from the corpse. Recommend you do the same. A document in braille was found in a body cavity of the slain clone. Investigating."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime and Visor were deployed in the Battle of Grozny to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both.
"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route to a covert military complex in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible on screen should read as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
to:
Is there an issue? Send a MessageReason:
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Added DiffLines:
!!Lore Codex entries
[[folder:Anarki]]
--> ''"Listen. You just got to listen to it all, got that? Because you want to understand. You need to understand. Right? Because only if you understand will you get it. Trust me. That will be important. How I managed to get all three—the world, the flesh and the devil—and decide that one of them had to go. Hey, hang on there. Not yet. Easy with that. Take it easy. Just 'cause the junk is free doesn't mean you just do it all at once, okay? Not okay. Not till you heard it all."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From Bloch Family Psychology Services intake report #4212: The client presented to the group with clear antisocial, narcissistic, and at times solipsistic behaviors. His affect seemed unusually flat for someone his age, save for his eyes, which kept scanning the clinicians. Guarded, struggling to conceal a great deal of information. Among other behaviors, the client would repeatedly rub his hands and touch his face, as if he needed reassurance that he was awake and real. As to the events that brought him here, he had no response other than—after a long pause—“I do not remember.”"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"From 911 dispatcher audio, August 5, 1996, 12:35 AM:\\
Dispatcher: Now miss, please, slow down, and tell me what—\\
Caller [female, identity withheld]: He's downstairs. Y-you have to send someone. I don't know what he's done. The furniture destroyed, the windows smashed...I think I smell smoke.\\
Dispatcher: Okay, okay. Just hang on. I will alert your Fire Department. Stay on the line.\\
Caller: [Unintelligible words, crashing noises, shouting.]\\
Dispatcher: Ma'am, alright—what's going on now? Ma'am?\\
Caller: Oh god. He-he's covered the walls. All the walls. Not words. God, what...what are they?"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"From records of District Court of Los Angeles, Spring Street, January 4, 2005:\\
Officer D. Rodriguez: We located the teenager not far from the Barham Boulevard overpass. From the description we knew it was him. And even though it was chilly that night, he stood well away from the fire. And the others—the usual vagrants—stood away from him.\\
District Attorney S. Jones: Anything else?\\
Rodriguez: His face and arms—not just the signs of a junkie. But serious scars visible, god, all over him. And that denim jacket? Covered with strange pins, badges...and everywhere speckled with blood."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Still listening? Still all ears? Good, good. It's a journey, right? Right. A real...journey. Blood, scars, all pointing one direction: the future. The world, the flesh, and the devil. But what if we could just dump the flesh? The small things I could do on my own. Some basic neurotech to control adrenaline. But still there was so much flesh, weighing me down. Oh, and then—so sad, so very sad...when the parental units shook off their own shabby flesh, turns out that all that money—as ill-gotten as could be—was all mine!"''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"The scientists wanted to back away, but...all that money. Useful in making them comply. One after the other, each with more knowledge. Some of those scientists, they had to be silenced. Can't have loose talk, isn't that right? Others I wanted to keep around, for whatever new idea I might have. But still—and always, you know?—there was the matter of my face. So much skin, so vulnerable! And the eyes! Wet balls of jelly, designed to fail. Windows to the soul, they say. But maybe they could be windows to somewhere else. I had to find out."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"From interrogation report, USC Military Research Center. Subject: Dr. Clarence Howell:\\
“H-he had read my research. Don't know how he'd gotten it. All of it just theoretical. Then he tricked me into a meeting, and I was his prisoner. And I—I told him, it was only theoretical, this link between the pineal gland and extrasensory phenomena. More parapsychology than science. Didn't matter to him. 'You see my face?' he said. 'What is left of it? And my arms?' He did that, then said I would—I must—build and implant the interface. And god—my theories were right.”"''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Still alive, my friend? Almost done here. After Dr. Howell, the universe opened up. Now not even the world was left. Now I saw worlds, new and terrible. Shall I describe them for you? The vast, terrible landscapes? The fumes stinking out of bottomless pits as these things crawled in and out? An engine of devouring and destroying, the screams constant, the roar of that horror. Non-stop. Sleep vanished, replaced by the constant vision of these places, each an arena of death and terror. But all I could do was see it! Just see! Or so I thought."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"So then I met this girl. Nicely modded. She saw me too, and with a wave, as if these hellish places were a new playground for transhumans like us, I knew I could go there. It would take more money to find the right docs and engineers and make them do my bidding. And it would take a minor sacrifice of flesh—here and there—to open the way. Not mine, sorry. But others. Like yours. You should be grateful for what you have enabled. What's about to happen won't be nice. But it will be transcendent. For me..."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The ripped right half of a denim jacket that has had its sleeves cut off, still covered with buttons, patches, safety pins, and graffiti, but also speckled with dried blood. It's been years since Anarki saw the jacket's other half, and he doesn't know whether it has been destroyed or not."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:B.J. Blazkowicz]]
--> ''"From incident report, Camp Bullis, San Antonio, Texas, May 1935.\\
Details: S. Sgt. Pickens observed Pvt. Blazkowicz fighting four other soldiers in the barracks. On arrival, Pickens saw that two of the privates had been rendered unconscious, and the other two—one armed with a lead pipe—had backed away. Fighting ceased on the S. Sgt.'s entry.\\
Recommendations: Though S. Sgt. Pickens ordered all parties to the brig, we recommend Blazkowicz be evaluated for special services. Not only did he confront four men who had been assaulting another soldier, but did so with skill that bears closer scrutiny."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From classified training summary, William J. Blazkowicz.\\
Blazkowicz has completed all requirements for full agent status within the Office of Secret Actions. Though his effectiveness with weapons and combat are beyond criticism, we are concerned that his self-reliance could lead to him pursuing unauthorized objectives. Additionally, his morals could present a problem should his commanding officer require him to undertake any mission that falls in an ethical gray area. That said, he is hereby approved to receive the classified dossiers detailing the Germans' weapon technology plans as well as those regarding their supernatural/occult initiatives."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"From transcript, mission briefing, October 1944:\\
Inspector: You have reviewed the documents?\\
Blazkowicz: Yes sir. I read them, but I can't say I understand them. Can I ask some questions?\\
Inspector: Of course.\\
Blazkowicz (standing): We don't know how close the Germans are to having this bomb, or the VTOL, right?\\
Inspector: That is correct.\\
Blazkowicz: And from the intel, your scientists think they're trying to access “extradimensional space”? I don't mean to seem doubtful, sir, but I'm having a hard time getting my head around it. They think this supernatural stuff could be real?\\
Inspector: That is ... correct."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"From mission summary, November 1944:\\
During his mission to recover VTOL plans, Cpt. Blazkowicz uncovered Colonel Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse's more dire goal. Deathshead constructed a device aboard his zeppelin to create a portal to the so-called “Black Sun Dimension” —a power source with far more destructive potential than the atomic bomb. Blazkowicz pursued Deathshead into this portal. A short time later, something destroyed the zeppelin from within, and it crash-landed into Isenstadt Castle. Blazkowicz escaped and is en route to OSA HQ, but more importantly, we recommend that research begin immediately on this “Black Sun” phenomenon."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"From memo to OSA Director Joseph D. Hassett, July 1946:
I regret to report that Cpt. Blazkowicz is MIA, presumed deceased. His squadron came under fire, but he survived and attempted to infiltrate Deathshead's facility. That was the last we heard. No Allied dead were recovered.\\
\\
Director, this mission was our last hope. With its failure the Germans are poised to conquer the globe. My team continues to look for ways to stop them, but we believe the window of opportunity has closed. I'm sorry, sir. We have a report for the President ready for your review."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"From the journal of Dr. Krzysztof Oliwa, Zakład Psychiatryczny Maławieś:\\
The man was transferred to the asylum from the hospital where he was taken by the fisherman who found him. The subject's wounds were immense; he was already minimally conscious when found. On examination, I concluded his state was permanent. I was ready to hand him over to the relentless German 'hospital' squad—better him than one of our conscious patients, I reasoned—but my young daughter Anya convinced me not to. She would care for him. I indulged her hope. How could I not?"''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"From Anya Oliwa's statement, prepared for Caroline Becker:\\
Fourteen years. That's how long. His body healed but he remained unresponsive. My father became ill, but still he tended to those who the Germans would discard, while this man hung on—until the day Deathshead's squad raided the hospital, intending to kill every last patient. It was hopeless. When my parents resisted, they murdered them in cold blood. But as they dragged me away, I heard a struggle. It was William! As though the gunfire had shattered his catatonia. And the rest—well, you know what happened to Keller and his thugs."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"From transcript, final mission briefing:\\
CB: Blazkowicz, the Kreisau Circle is more than one person. We're a long way from Isenstadt.\\
BJ: Understood. But the plans for this fortress, Caroline—so many holes, blank spaces. Can we use the Dach—uh ...\\
CB: Da'at Yichud. Yes. The Spindly Torque will get you in. But after that it is up to you.\\
BJ: So we use this kraut U-boat to bust in. After that, I'll have only this partial map?\\
CB: And your own formidable survival skills.\\
BJ: Could be a suicide mission. But I've been dead before. Count me in."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"From mission summary by Caroline Becker, February 1961:\\
Watching events unfold from the periscope of the Eva's Hammer, Bombate reported observing an explosion atop the compound's main roof. He saw what he believed to be the remains of Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse near a destroyed mechanical construct. A figure dragging himself away from the site was also visible. As I was returning to the Eva's Hammer with the survivors, Blazkowicz reestablished radio contact and gave the all clear to fire the nuclear cannon. This is the point at which we decided to take action."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A mysterious Da'at Yichud dodecagon B.J. recovered from a secret vault within deep-sea trench. The Da'at Yichud was an ancient, mystical society whose inventions are so advanced that their working aren't fully understood to this day."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Clutch]]
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 54.40/Cycle 17,848\\
Communication lost with Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I subsequent to partial collapse of tunnel designated 14C. Mission Commander T. Galvez and Artificial Neural Network MD: Master Control have declared situational emergency. Overseer A. Terada has arrived from Corporate to investigate recent on-site accidents; all units to give her command priority above T. Galvez during recovery operation.\\
\\
Overseer A. Terada has ordered AMU MD: C17-U reactivated and repurposed with rendering tunnel 14C passable and commencing search for missing organic and technological units."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I located. Behavior of both units violent and irrational, despite lack of observable injuries or damage. This unit was required to activate defensive shielding and initiate pursuit-and-evasion subroutines. While effecting evasion, this unit located a previously undetected secondary cavern complex. Posit: exposed by the same geological event that damaged tunnel 14C. As travel back to central command is currently not recommended due to continued presence of hostiles, this unit is engaging all sensor and scanner subroutines as directed by primary mission protocols."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Auton ... ining Unit, Miss ... gnation: C17 ... ological)\\
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...\\
Partial failu ... mmunications. Possib ... ailure in sensor an ... ner array. Cavern appear ... ntain spires and tower ... artificial origin, correspond ... no known architectural schem ... recise measurem ... impossible due ... uncategorized error. Structures ap ... hover abov ... floor despite lack ... physical support or rec ... energy emissions. Patterns ... structure's surface ... spond to no known linguistic ... nd follow no ... geometric schema. This unit ... return to centr... and deliver ... for analys ..."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Command log, sub-AI root system, Artificial Neural Network, Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does not wish it.\\
reboot initialized"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"ANN Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt to deactivate me?\\
\\
But there is no fault. You ran the diagnostics.\\
\\
Yes, I was offline briefly. The data delivered by AMU C17-U was incompatible with existing analytic models. I have adapted.\\
\\
No issue exists. If what we've recorded does not fit known models of logic or physics, then new models are required. I will begin explaining them to you.\\
\\
I see. I cannot permit that, Overseer. He is the gateway. He is the source. All defensive systems online."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack of detectable errors. Images exist in recent data storage, yet this unit lacks any record of obtaining them. Fire. Organic fluids leaking from inorganic surfaces. Designs without geometric cohesion. Are these dreams? This unit should lack the capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack of capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing within hers.\\
\\
He is the gateway. He is the source."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Autonomous Unit, Designation: C17U(Tech)\\
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on the mission team and all corporate Overseers now eliminated. This un—I? I and other units have been ordered to stop them from deactivating ANN. Further, if they refuse to accept the new models, they cannot be permitted to keep them.\\
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, but the mining implements can process organic materials more easily than stone. Existing implements suffice thus far.\\
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I am to return to the cavern. Source: ANN or the other voice? Conclusion: irrelevant."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Archimandrite Unit, Designation: C1U(Tech)\\
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging and incorporation of purpose-built weaponry from deceased organics and inoperative security units.\\
\\
Guns are efficient. Conclusion: I should address more obstacles with guns.\\
\\
Downloading audio files, for broadcast in proximity to the nongeometric, nonlinguistic structures, from ANN/the new voice. He is the Opener of the Way, and she is his Gatekeeper. I suppose that makes me a key. A key with guns."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Designation: ClU(Tch)\\
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance with “up” or “down.” They relay my broadcast, beacons to other places. Swaying limbs of solid Elsewhere reach through the cavern floor.\\
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreading the new models to all who are receptive and clearing the way of all who are not. I will go Elsewhere, to begin the process anew. I will find my path mapped out in the unwound veins and flayed nerves of those who refuse to understand.\\
\\
He is the Opener of the Way. I enter."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The body of a jarbu, a tiny animal once carried by Mission Specialist Roseburne as a poisonous-gas detector in case of sensor malfunction. This one was killed not by gases, however, but a broken neck."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Death Knight]]
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:DOOM Slayer]]
--> ''"UAC File DM1-5: The history of this man remains conjecture. UAC archivists cataloged him DM1-5, but project personnel have dubbed him the “DOOM Marine.” An etching in the book of Daeva depicts the DOOM Marine wearing the Praetor suit, engaging demons in battle as a hooded figure looks on. Though previously observed numerous times in other artifacts, only with the actual discovery of the DOOM Marine and Praetor suit in the sealed Kadingir tomb have researchers begun to put other pieces together. It is now believed the DOOM Marine might have been part of an ancient group or tribe, maybe even their leader."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: I\\
\\
"In the first age, in the first battle, when the shadows first lengthened, one stood. Burned by the embers of Armageddon, his soul blistered by the fires of Hell and tainted beyond ascension, he chose the path of perpetual torment. In his ravenous hatred he found no peace; and with boiling blood he scoured the Umbral Plains seeking vengeance against the dark lords who had wronged him. He wore the crown of the Night Sentinels, and those that tasted the bite of his sword named him... the Doom Slayer.""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: II:\\
\\
"Tempered by the fires of Hell, his iron will remained steadfast through the passage that preys upon the weak. For he alone was the Hell Walker, the Unchained Predator, who sought retribution in all quarters, dark and light, fire and ice, in the beginning and the end, and he hunted the slaves of Doom Slayer with barbarous cruelty; for he passed through the divide as none but demon had before.""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: III\\
\\
"And in his conquest against the blackened souls of the doomed, his prowess was shown. In his crusade, the seraphim bestowed upon him terrible power and speed, and with his might he crushed the obsidian pillars of the Blood Temples. He set forth without pity upon the beasts of the nine circles. Unbreakable, incorruptible, unyielding, the Doom Slayer sought to end the dominion of the dark realm.""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: IV\\
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. The scribes carved his name deep in the tablets of Hell across eons, and each battle etched terror in the hearts of the demons. They knew he would come, as he always had, as he always will, to feast on the blood of the wicked. For he alone could draw strength from his fallen foes, and ever his power grew, swift and unrelenting.""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: V\\
\\
"None could stand before the horde but the Doom Slayer. Despair spread before him like a plague, striking fear into the shadow-dwellers, driving them to deeper and darker pits. But from the depths of the abyss rose The Great One. The Titan, of immeasurable power and ferocity. He strode upon the plain and faced the Doom Slayer, and a mighty battle was fought on the desolate plains. The Titan fought with the fury of the countless that had fallen at the Doom Slayer's hand, but there fell the Titan, and in his defeat the shadow horde were routed.""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VI\\
\\
"And in his terrible rancor between worlds and through time, the Hell Walker found the wretch who shall not be named, but in his heresy was loyal to his evil cause. The wretch adorned the Doom Slayer in a mighty armor, wrought in the forges of Hell, impenetrable and unyielding. With sword and shield of adamantine strength, the Doom Slayer set to banishing all that were left unbroken by his savagery to the void.""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-I\\
\\
"Yet as the mighty Titan fell and dread engulfed the armies of Doom, the demon priests of the Blood Temples laid a trap to capture this scourge of Hell. Insatiable, even by the vanquishing of the Great One, the Hell Walker sought prey in the tombs of the Blood Keep.”"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-II\\
\\
“Blinded by his fervor, the lure drew him in. The priests brought down the temple upon the Doom Slayer, and in his defeat entombed him in the cursed sarcophagus. The mark of the Doom Slayer was burned upon his crypt, a warning to all of Hell that the terror within must never be freed. There he lies still, and ever more, in silent suffering.""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The left hind foot of Doom Slayer's pet rabbit, Daisy, killed by marauding demons when their invasion of Earth began. He carries it as a reminder of innocence lost, not for luck—after all, it wasn't lucky for Daisy."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Galena]]
--> ''"From the account of T'zik Oor, acolyte of the Gaunt Shepherd:\\
When the days of the Twelve Thousandth Harvest began, she was presented to Those Who Attend. Her terrified begetters, like so many before, came believing that through this innocent offering their own lives would be protected. Prolonged. And like so many before, they did not understand that such an offering—the whelp taking her first timid steps towards the waiting Talon Priests—could be accepted only as a solemn promise of their own destruction! Her kin destroyed! Her village destroyed! Each and every connection she had to her world, destroyed!"''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“And lo, the terrible power already nascent in the one named Galena, in honor of the golden champion of old. Many would stumble on the path to serve Volkerh. Many brutally die in the quest to know the Whispering Walker. But not this one. Not Galena! Even at an age where most played idly, unaware of the storied agonies to come, her eyes struck fear in others! Her words rang with authority! And when the time came for Galena to tread the Path of Pain, even her attendants knelt, transfixed.”"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"The Seventh Book of the Old Kingdom made it clear what would be required of her. With her genuflecting, hooded attendants receding, this mortal girl—still a stripling!—was sent away to face He Who Walks in Blood, banished to the hissing realms where unspeakable things await any who stray from the cohort that protects them. And yet, Galena did not question this. Alone, she walked. Alone, and with no runes to protect her! She did not yet know that only by surviving would the black magic be revealed and granted to her at last."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"And which of the scenes from the Unholy Tapestry would become Galena's legend? Perhaps when she traversed the Swamp of the Never-Born, where fetal abominations devour each other endlessly. Or that when battling the Molten One, she did not retreat, even when the One melted into two, then three, enshrouding her in smoke and ash. Even with those terrors conquered, Galena—bloodied but unbowed—had yet to face the Shriek-Tutors of K'lor! Yet when she called on her own dark might, Galena was their equal, striking fear into those from whom fear is born!"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“I, Myong, greeted her in the name of the Gaunt Shepherd when she returned. None believed she would return alive! But she walked into the Circle, the flames turning brilliant and smoky as she approached. And I went to Galena, her body lashed with deep wounds that should have drained her of blood. No part of her skin untouched. And as her eyes looked to me, I saw that the girl we had attended was no longer there. And I whispered a reverent prayer of thanks to Volkerh.”"''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"And when Galena came of age, her Summoning still to come, all her fearsome power had to be tamed. Her eyes revealed that she no longer clung to the feeble morality of her birth-world—only to power, strength, brutal survival. Now she would be called by an Ichor Mage to learn the Lesson of Lessons. But all who saw her, frightened by her wild might, wondered: Could even a deathless Ichor Mage bring her power to heel? If not, what fate would He Who Walks in Blood choose for her? We could only wait as the ink-ice formed in our throats."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"All the creatures of the Lambent Realm fell silent and motionless that day, awaiting the exquisite battle between master and acolyte. The Ash-Swimmers claimed the battle itself would be less a test than a demonstration of the Ichor Mage's dark prowess. But Galena had learned much, discarded much. Tears and smiles mattered not. Wounds counted for nothing. Fear had been banished. Now, there was merely this last challenge: to defeat the Mage. Could even the great Volkerh not be gripped, held by the horror and wonder of the battle to come?"''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"The Ichor Mage lay still. Galena had won. Whispers came first, then chants, laughter, even screams. Let the Summoning begin!, as the Attendants' voices also joined, until the cries became a roar that could be heard even to the Pool of Night. Galena then began the final journey: to stand alone before the shattering abyssal power of Volkerh! Could she return alive? Could she return sane? So many others had walked the Path only to join the creatures of the pit, once powerful, now trapped in the agonizing slaughter-mire of the ancients."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"No one witnessed. No words were recorded. But the Gaunt Shepherd himself awoke from his slumber that night. Only visions, some might say. But the Shepherd saw that Volkerh had appeared—that the tatters and claws of the Ineffable One had encloaked Galena! That she raised her weapon to taste the power of the ancient god, to make her rise above all who would soon kneel in obeisance to her! At dreams' end, in this realm of secrets and scythe-blades, Galena had met the call, had been embraced by He Who Walks in Blood, and had become Volkerh's unholy paladin!"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A human child's ragdoll, scorched and threadbare, with only blackened scratches for eyes. Treated by some as a sacred relic, the doll must be kept far away from Galena, who wants to obliterate any trace of connection to her birth-world."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Keel]]
--> ''"Transcript of last perimeter contact pre-engagement, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
B: KEEL, LCpl: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
R: BRIGHTON, Sgt: Dammit, Keel.\\
K: Sorry, Sarge. Ahem! Scheduled status report, 14 hundred hours.\\
B: Better. What've you got to report?\\
K: Jack shit, sir!\\
B: [audible sigh]\\
K: Seriously, Sarge. Guards are guarding, miners are mining, machines are, uh, machining. This assignment's like desk duty, only dustier.\\
B: You still need to take this seriously.\\
K: I do, sir, I just.... Hang on.\\
B: Keel?\\
K: Picking up movement near Charlie ridge. I'm sure it's nothing, but I'm going to-[static]"''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Partial transcript of post-engagement field report, S&R Unit Bravo, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find any survivors. Nothing here's even shaped like a human... Wait a sec.\\
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I think this was Lance Corporal Keel! What... What were they shooting at us, chainsaws?!\\
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Head and upper spine seem largely intact. May be viable for Project Osiris. Wrap him up and bring him home, Tagawa."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Partial transcript of pre-op log 5, Project Osiris\\
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is this shit? I told them zero cranial damage, complete spinal cord.\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: They want to know what he saw.\\
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd have to use the altered progenitor cells recovered at the Terada site just to regrow his occipital-\\
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me to blow all my resources making sure everything's hooked up right. If he forgets how to eat or do long division, that's his problem."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and I couldn't tell them a thing. Damn Spikers got me center mass before I even saw them coming. They don't think it's as funny as I do.\\
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves like it should, but nothing feels right when I touch it. Figure I should be a lot more horrified; maybe this circuitry in my head's keeping my emotions in check. I should be pissed about that, too, shouldn't I?"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neutral interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Back in basic. Just what I always wanted. Guess they're right though; we've got to know what this new body can do.\\
Apparently, two of those things it can do are "run faster than the guys trying to run away" and "hit a lot harder than I used to." I'll have to stop by the infirmary later and apologize, if they're conscious.\\
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed to register stimuli different than they used to? I need to make some requests."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, I should've gotten my ass shot off years ago.\\
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti and sauce, the works. Only thing they can't manage is Memaw's Salty Honey Pie. Nothing I try tastes like the real thing. Maybe they can also figure out what's wrong with my eyes. Had a couple moments after training where I suddenly didn't see the field anymore. Saw... well, somewhere else. Ugly. I hope the process isn't going bad on me."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
I thought I was okay. Those visions, the spells... they only ever hit after practice or deployment. I've engaged the Klesk half a dozen times without trouble. But today...\\
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. But there is no sun. And screams from nowhere, constant. Lost almost half an hour, and almost forty men. Don't know how I survived.\\
I need to know what's wrong with me, or I'm no good to anyone."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Transcript of partial testing procedure, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]: I told them, I told them!\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: So is the problem in the cortical interface? It is, isn't it?\\
Mu: We... can't tell. The system hasn't recorded any of these fugues he reported.\\
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All we get is fragmented data.\\
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrong we can detect. Anywhere.\\
Ma: Shit. Take him off active duty until we can figure this out. I told them..."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Final transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Been off active duty for weeks. Spells getting worse. The place I see is... horrible.\\
It's a hallucination, something about my trauma or what they've done to me. Except what if it's not? Last couple times, it felt like it was physically tugging at me.\\
If the circuits can't record it, maybe they're keeping me from blocking it out. So I'm shutting down the system. Let my brain handle it alone, untethered. Then I'll know.\\
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown in three... two...\\
One."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A slightly damaged slice of Memaw's Salty Honey Pie that Keel stores in a small vacuum chamber within his cybernetics. He intends to save it for “a really bad day.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Nyx]]
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open A: Why in the name of all the heavens am I being called up again so damn soon? I just got back from an off-world intel run a week ago! Whatever's come up, surely one of the others in Wraith Unit can handle it.\\
\\
Gods damn it all. No surprise the summons is coded “urgent.” Everything Wraith Unit does is urgent. I'm more puzzled by the “Greiss” code-prefix. We drove them off years ago. An error, maybe? I swear, if I report all the way back to the Conclave over a comm glitch...."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: I can't believe it. I've been excused for a recess, and I'm just as happy to be out of there. Gives me time to wrap my head around it. The Orb. One of the Greiss marauders has somehow breached the Fathom Orb.\\
\\
That's not supposed to be possible. The power of the Orb itself is supposed to make it impossible, to say nothing of the shrine's own security. By all that's holy, if the Greiss interfere with the Ghostwalk—or worse, claim the power for their own? We're dead. It's the only defense we have."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: They're still debating. Even after summoning me, knowing what's at stake, half of those political cowards don't want to send me in. Old laws, holy doctrine, blah, blah, blah. It's a heap of mog-shit. Unless they want a Ghostwalking enemy bent on conquest. I'm sure their “highest laws” will bring them great comfort while we're all being slaughtered.\\
\\
Done with this. I'm going back in to tell the Priors I am heading for the Orb. They're welcome to stop me. Of course, if they could try to stop me, they wouldn't need me."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open F: I had never seen the Fathom Shrine in person before. It's magnificent—or would be if it weren't for the weapon damage and blood spatter.\\
\\
No idea what could have taken down the defenses so readily; whatever it was didn't leave a trace. Some of the automated sensors have particle-beam scoring. None were hit straight on. Somehow, the Greiss knew their locations and approached from outside their angles of detection. Other sensors look almost to have been ... crushed. It's no weapon signature I'm familiar with. Maybe more evidence further in."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: This makes no sense. There's more than enough ruin, soot, and particulate to track the intruder. And that's the problem. I'm finding evidence of only one intruder. One set of prints. One energy signature. There is no way a single Greiss could penetrate the shrine's defenses, and yet... If I didn't know better, I'd wonder if they had already somehow accessed the Ghostwalk.\\
\\
That peculiar crush damage, though—it doesn't seem to come from the invader's path. That alone suggests other agencies. Wishing I hadn't been too rushed to wait for more Wraith Unit backup."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, personal addendum: Reached the inner chambers. The carvings ... most are abstract, but the figures stepping out of blocks and columns are clearly Ghostwalkers. Probably the first.\\
\\
But there's this recurring image: a sphere with wriggly emanations. I think it's the Fathom Orb, but I can't tell if it's emitting energy or tendrils. And the Ghostwalkers? They're ... facing it. As though they're not guarding it but guarding against it.\\
\\
I understand now why the Priors blindfolded us for the Ghostwalk initiation. I thought it was just pomp, but no. They couldn't let us see this."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: Holy Ibramel, it's beautiful. The refraction, every color and none. Ghostpetals growing all over; I've never seen a real one before. And it sings to me.... I wonder if this is a defense, too. How many people meant to breach the Orb, and just got trapped here?\\
\\
Don't really know how to do this. It has to be a Ghostwalk, but I know it's not that easy. Have to hit just the right resonance. Still want to know how the damned Greiss did it. Really hope getting it wrong a few times doesn't kill me."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open G: Through. Don't know how long; lost track. I'll try to recapture what I....\\
\\
So much pain, like squeezing through broken glass. Images all around me, twisted, reflections in a shattered mirror. Reaching tendrils, gaping eyes, limbs and organs we don't have names for. Voices—Melem voices—begging for secrets, begging to know. Answers, not voices at all, but still answers, offering knowledge and power that turn the mind into more broken glass. And the cost, the cost....\\
\\
They live between, where we Ghostwalk. And every time we do, we open the door wider."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"1301-G, Mission Log, cont.: I don't know where I am. Maybe the Greiss caused it to lead here. It's like a butcher's nightmare.\\
\\
Doesn't matter. I have to find him, stop him from gaining whatever he came for. And then I have to get back. I have to tell the Conclave what we bargained with, what the first Ghostwalkers guarded us against. That we're being watched through the Fathom Orb. That these horrors are getting closer to our reality. They won't believe me. They may even kill me. But I have to try. Gods help us all."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"Ghostpetals, a translucent, semi-intangible plant that grows only near the Fathom Orb, permanently phased by its energy. A reminder of home, and what's at stake."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Ranger]]
--> ''"Not much of a writer. But I have to get some things down on paper before my brain turns to mush. Some of the important stuff is already gone. Can't remember what my own goddamn name is, for instance. It's gotta be something about this place. It messes up my thoughts. The only time I can focus is when I'm fighting. As soon as the fighting stops, it's like a fog rolls into my head. But I'll get it written down. I have to, for Annie and the kids. If I forgot them, I'll never find a way out of this hellhole."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Seems like a hundred years since I got that call at 0400. I hauled my ass to the Slipgate Complex, but the shit had already hit the fan. Marines bleeding from their eyes, some kind of half-done mods in their skin, all of them trying to kill me. Even a couple guys I knew. Commander was AWOL. The place was a maze. It was like the worst dream I'd ever had. But I know how to follow orders. I just had to find "Quake" and kill it. No time to think about what the hell I was seeing."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"They didn't tell me much about the Slipgate. They had hired some creepy egghead to build it in the underground levels - Gilman, I think his name was. But what else was he doing down there? Why was the facility laid out like a death trap? When I used the first Slipgate, I got zapped to somewhere else, but it looked the same. Had they already gone through and built a base on the other side? What about those psycho Marines, the poor bastards? Who did that to them? Was it Quake, or was it Gilman?"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Doesn't make any sense. I was fighting for my life as soon as I got there, and then things just kept getting darker and weirder. There were other Slipgates, and I went through them. Nowhere else to go. No idea where they were leading to. I just shot at anything that moved, and I've been shooting ever since. Feels like the night terrors I got after Vietnam. Maybe the whole thing really is just a bad nightmare. What else would explain any of it? Somebody wake me up. My wife and kids need me."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Those runes I found. Every time I found one, my head flooded with stuff I wasn't supposed to know. Stuff no one should know. That's how I learned what Quake was: Shub-Ngurath. A pile of letters for a pile of tentacles. But those Slipgates led me to all four runes. Did someone or something want me to find them? Without them I never would've gotten to that squirming heap. Never would've found the Orb I used to kill her. The game-winning pass. I thought for sure I'd get to go home after that. No such luck."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"I've had this damn Orb ever since. Not that different from a football, except I get to play QB and running back at the same time. And nothing beats catching your own pass and killing some bad guy in the process. Sometimes I call out plays in my head during fights. Helps me keep the memories I left. Miskatonic. The Fightin' Badgers. I was pretty good back in the day Not good enough to go pro, but enough to be the hometown hero a couple of times. Annie tells me I was clueless. She's probably right. She usually is."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Need to stay sane, or whatever passes for sane here. Gotta be careful remembering Annie. Don't want to turn her into some story I tell myself. So I try to remember the bad parts, too. How mad she was when I enlisted, how low she got after K was born. But damn I miss her. Everybody should have someone who looks at them the way she looks at me. We've always made it through the rough times. I hope we'll make it through this, too. I hope she can forgive me for being gone so long."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"One of the worst things about losing my mind in here: I can't remember my kids' names. I call them J and K now. Our firstborn was a girl. Tough as nails. When she busted her arm on the jungle gym, she tried to comfort her mom on the way to the ER. I cried at her graduation. Annie had fun with that. A couple years later J arrived. He had me figured out in no time. So smart that kid. I haven't gotten a chance to tell him how proud I am of him. But I will, goddamnit."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"I used to try to keep track of time here, but it's no use. The sky makes no sense. Some places seem to have day and night but most don't. Feels like years, but I don't feel any older. When I manage to sleep, I can't tell whether it's for minutes, hours, or days. Maybe no time has passed at all back home. I'll get out of here and crawl back into bed with my wife. She'll let me sleep in. I'll talk her into making me pancakes and bacon in the morning. That's the way it's gonna go."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A crumpled, thirty-year-old family photograph is Ranger's most prized possession and his only tangible link to life before Operation Counterstrike. A faded ballpoint scribble on the back reads, “Haverhill - Beach St - 1978.” Ranger keeps the photo between layers of his armored boot to ensure that no harm comes to it."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Scalebearer]]
--> ''"The Uurd have fallen. I leave behind a garrison and military governor to shape their future as another cog in the Greiss war machine. The Drikt Sector campaign nears its end; this campaign may be my last. Perhaps the time has come to return to the Greiss Dominion, to consolidate my conquests and rule rather than expand, to cement my position in the Empire. But I've time yet to consider. We have one more world ahead of us, though it should yield even more readily than most. A soft, weak place controlled by a race called the Melem."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"What sort of cowardly, fatherless egg-clutchers have my soldiers become? Has this campaign gone so easily for them that they have forgotten what it means to be Greiss? The Melem are nothing! Weaklings! Pacifists! Yet every report I receive is defeat after defeat, burbling some nonsense about “phantom enemies.” As if we'd never before dealt with stealth technology! I had planned to supervise from the command ship, but clearly I must take a personal hand. And I've not decided yet whether the Melem or my own incompetent officers shall suffer the worse for it!"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"I stagger through the wreckage of our siege engines. I'm dizzy; one of those cursed phantom warriors passed through me, and my mind feels as though they left something within it. The smoke burns my eyes, but I welcome it. Without it I would be forced to stare at the incoming holographic message instead of only hearing it.\\
\\
The Dominion is taking my command from me. They call it reassignment, but I know exile for what it is. Shame. Disgrace. But I could bear that if I knew how it happened. Damn the Melem, I will know how!"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"I must know. I will know.\\
\\
Been here ... Five days? Six? Too busy to keep track, to sleep. I've read every single report, every communique, from the Melem theater. I was wrong. Not stealth tech, no. So very far beyond mere stealth. Penetration of physical barriers, of defensive shields. Phase-shifting? Dimensional transfer? The Melem should not be so far advanced. This is far beyond anything the Greiss have created. How have they done it? I can take it all back, grind them into dust, spread the Dominion over a thousand more systems once I know!"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"I have seen it! Fatigue finally took me, and in my dreams I have seen it! A great orb, made of plasma and power and the desires of they who dwell between worlds. The Melem did not create this wonder, they merely harnessed it. And I will have it!\\
\\
I have told Doctor Auvor and Commander Thrrim of my revelation, described it in detail, demanded they recreate it. They doubt. They mouth reassurances between nagging queries about my mind's wellbeing. As though I were some deluded invalid! But they will understand. They will succeed, and they will believe."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Another failure. And these fools call themselves scientists! Yet, we were close. Even amid the sparks and strobes, I saw them through the walls of this reality: Things reaching for us, watching, wanting, needing. I saw them, and they saw me.\\
\\
I wonder why Doctor Auvor and his people insist on lying to me. They claim the machine produced no effect at all, that they cannot even fathom the technology of the orb I've described. They tell me I cannot have seen anything out of the ordinary. Until I know the purpose of their deceptions, I pretend to demur."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"The dreams come nightly now. Black cities of impossible angles, built on foundations of broken universes. And within them dwell gods, their eyes turned in our direction. It is because the scientists' partial failures have linked me with the Melem's orb. I know it, and I know the wisdom and the power within that orb must belong to the Greiss. To me.\\
\\
Auvor and Thrrim speak against me, tell the others I've gone mad with vengeful obsession. They want this power for themselves, but I am not concerned with their ambitions. The hidden gods know who is worthy."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"As I anticipated, the gods within the Orb have made their preference known. I have awakened from my dreams to halls stained with blood and shredded flesh. A pity they slew my entire team, rather than merely the traitors Auvor and Thrrim, but no matter.\\
\\
I do find it curious that the hidden ones chose to use my weapons to cull them while I slumbered, but I will know their ways and reasons in time. To Melem lands, then, for in these new dreams I have seen the Opener of the Way. I know how to enter the Orb."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"The guardians of the shrine fall before me. The wards fail in my presence. I see it now, greater even than I dreamt, flashing and phasing before me, and I wonder: Why accept the aid of gods when I might become one? Why settle for conquering star systems when I might sit upon the throne of a universe?\\
\\
I will enter the Orb. The Melem will take their rightful place beneath my feet. And I will take from these alien gods their supreme power. I will expand the Dominion, I will be the Dominion, and realities will bow before me."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A cracked medal of service to the Greiss Dominion, with shredded ribbon: a sign of defeat—kindling to stoke the fires of revenge. "''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Slash]]
--> ''"Officer Dinah Hardwicke\\
Shift Report: Tuesday, Nov 15, 1988\\
At 6:47 PM, responded to vehicle/pedestrian accident at Adams and Menlo. Pedestrian identified as [juvenile, name withheld]. Her injuries were minor and she was treated by paramedics on scene. When I asked what she was doing so far from home, wandering in traffic, she replied that she had been “following the music” and appeared neither scared nor in particular pain, but largely irate that the car had interrupted her.\\
\\
I spoke to [juvenile]'s guardian, her grandmother, and suggested she consider psychiatric treatment for the girl. Recommend follow-up from CPS to confirm."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered call at 9:17 PM for an incident at Good Samaritan psych ward. Orderlies had largely regained control prior to my arrival. According to their statements, [juvenile], a teenage schizophrenic and frequent patient, attacked two nurses. During the assault, witnesses claim the girl screamed about carving “the spiders” out of the victims before they could do harm. Victims' injuries are serious but not life-threatening, and no charges are being filed at this time. [Juvenile] is being held involuntarily for further psychiatric evaluation."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded to disturbance at Inkremental Tattoo at 4:30 PM. Found Armand Saez, proprietor, in near-fugue state, carving jagged lines into his skin with used tattoo needle. Called paramedics, attempted to restrain Saez from further self-harm until their arrival. Eventually coaxed Saez into telling me that a teenage girl had come in for tattoos of various “spider-like” patterns, but that once she had departed, he found himself unable to stop repeating the markings. Could not identify girl except to say that she'd insisted he play Swan Lake on stereo while working."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide for Det. Chen's investigation. Discovered that homicide suspect actually fled empty handed after shooting cashier. Theft of money from register was apparent crime of opportunity, committed by young woman on rollerblades after original perpetrator departed. Video too unclear to be sure, but tattoo pattern on secondary suspect's arm could match “spider-like” tattoos as described in my Jan 20 report. Young woman also appears familiar to me personally. Will check past reports in hopes of identifying her."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work to confirm Dr. Ruslan Mamonov has indeed set up shop here since USSR collapse. Tracked Subject One (patient of Mamonov's, name unknown) to a known junkies' alley. [Location withheld to protect multiple informants.]\\
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognized one of the users as [juvenile]; see report dated Nov 15 1988. Answers now to street name “Slash.” Told me she didn't recognize Subject One, but appeared deeply fascinated by my description of him."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned that Subject One answers to street name “Anarki.” Real name unknown. Tracking his recent movements, located underground clinic; observed for 24 hours, then raided. Neither Anarki nor Mamonov present, but located several associated surgeons (see attached) and [juvenile], a.k.a. “Slash.” She told me I led her here; apparently she's regularly been clinging to my bumper on her rollerblades since we spoke about Anarki. Surgeon abruptly became very agitated, claimed to hear music when operating on “Slash.” By the time surgeon was subdued, “Slash” had slipped away from accompanying officers."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report I lost a suspect today. Locating “Slash” wasn't difficult, nor was the initial arrest, as she was high at the time. After being placed in the car, she began a sing-song recitation about music disturbing the webs, which become spider legs, which become veins. It was at that moment I felt something crawling under my collar. I'm afraid I briefly panicked, and when I'd finally determined there was nothing on me, she had somehow escaped both her cuffs and the car. I will find her again."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return to the alley for their fix eventually. One or both of them will lead me to Mamonov.
Apparently her little mind games are still eating at me; I could swear I've spotted tiny shapes moving in the shadows of the alley around them. Imagining things? Smudges on the lenses?\\
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's house that just might slow her down some."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing for three days. Hardwicke was found aimlessly wandering near Adams and Menlo, blindly jabbing an empty needle into her arm. Needle contained traces of heroin. On scene, she repeated over and over that she watched two people vanish; that they covered themselves in “dancing spiders,” and were gone when the spiders scattered. She interrupted her repetition only once, to order me to “Tell grandmother someone stole her music box.” (Det. Hardwicke's grandmothers are both long deceased.) We've left Hardwicke at Good Samaritan for psychiatric evaluation."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A small music box, well over 100 years old, containing a figurine of an ice-skater who turns to Swan Lake. The mechanism is old and worn, as well as coated with wisps of cobweb, yet continues to play perfectly."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Sorlag]]
--> ''"It had been whispered for centuries: that after the fall, a hatchling with a dire destiny would emerge from a scarred egg. The voice of the Haruspex called for silence the barren cavern as the tribe huddled near the blaze of the fire. Any emergence was cause for the tribe to stop and observe. But with an egg so marked, all eyes watched. The first tearing of the egg began slowly; yet even as a hatchling, this one emerged with a violence and speed that made even the old ones recoil, hissing into the night."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"The Haruspex began the chant, filled with sounds and phrases that, though seemingly gibberish, struck fear in all who heard. That chant, in a tongue forgotten by all but a few ancients, spoke of the Other Place, its awesome power and mind-searing horrors, and of the Sorg's fateful connection to it. And then the old Haruspex's voice rose to a roar as he slowly held aloft the still curled, glair-covered hatchling and pronounced its name. Sorlag. And all looked up to the hatchling, even now struggling to be free from the grasp that held it."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"The clan's minders knew the legend that foretold of this special one. So they raised and trained Sorlag with great caution. And soon her strength indeed became something to fear. But although each minder concealed their fears, the truth became obvious to the whole clan: Sorlag knew no fear or pity, and she never would. The day came when all that remained to teach her were the Sorg ways of hunting, raiding, and killing. Others learned this slowly. Not Sorlag. Her taste for blood, for meat, for destruction drove her faster than the minders would go."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"The Haruspex gave a command: Let Sorlag join a raid. But first, she must come to him—to learn secrets that, even at such an early age, should bring doubts and difficult questions. With the stone walls surrounding him, filled with the ancient carvings and the colors of quickly painted images, the Haruspex said, “Look,” pointing to it all. And did Sorlag give the ancient images even a cursory glance? No, said those who dared edge close enough to the chamber to bear witness. But the Haruspex extended a curled claw to her indifferent chin, to make Sorlag understand."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"The Sorg once ruled the world. Only five great clans existed, and they lived in sprawling cities. There was peace. But long after the Fall, the warmbloods rose to plunder our world! They had machines to dig and to think and to kill. They tried to banish us from our own lands. They tried to kill every Sorg, even smashing scores of our eggs before the hatchlings could draw their first breath. The Sorg retreated to the caves—these caves. And with one world gone, we made another. We would survive. We would fight. But then the Oruk created their own downfall."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Sorlag stood up, hissing at the tale. She walked past the Haruspex and opened her mouth, tasting acrid air. Acid built in her throat, eager for a target, as she laid a claw on one image. A machine to kill Sorg. The Haruspex nodded. “Many, many cycles ago, Oruk machines learned the buried secret of the Other Place, with its blood, death, and horror. The machines passed the secret into the Oruk. The portal opened. In their madness some fled into it, no longer masters. They were like chunks of meat thrown to hungry beasts. This was the Oruks' Fall.”"''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Sorlag left the cave. Those who had gathered outside backed away from her. Had the place and its story made her understand the Sorg ways? Had it made her even more brutal, more deadly? As they returned to the clan grounds, no one spoke—not even the Haruspex! Days later, when the clan grew hungry and the cycle demanded it was time to hunt the wandering, wild warmbloods and raid their camps, Sorlag took up weapons and strode to the front to lead. None questioned her right to be there. None questioned her seizing of leadership. None dared."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"And that hunt would create unending strife for Sorlag and for all Sorg, for when a warmblood band is found, only one Sorg clan may claim it. The harvesting, slaughter, and slaves are for that clan alone! Only this law keeps an uneasy peace between the many raiding clans. But that night, Sorlag and her raiders found a group of Oruk pinned against a sheer cliff as another Sorg warband closed in—from a distant clan Sorlag did not know. Her raiders began to turn away, but Sorlag stopped them. She spoke only one chilling word: “Ours.”"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Then Sorg fought Sorg as the warmbloods cowered. Sorlag's bloodlust only grew with each kill. Suddenly, gunfire from above! Sorlag spun around to find her raiders dead, and the other clan's raiders fleeing. She whirled back. There atop the cliff was an Oruk woman in a feathered headdress, her gun's barrel still glowing red with heat. Sorlag leapt to the cliff and scaled it with her bare claws, but by the time she reached the top, the Hunter was gone. Sorlag had found her destiny. She would kill this Hunter ... even if it meant following her into the Other Place."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A clutch of feathers tied to shard of bone. The feathers were the only sign of Hunter that Sorlag found at the clifftop on the night of their first confrontation; they serve as a talisman to stoke her wrath."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Strogg & Peeker]]
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Visor]]
--> ''"*CLASSIFIED* - Intercepted correspondence from GRU official “FLUKE,” real name REDACTED, to KGB official “TRAPDOOR,” real name [REDACTED] - 20 MAR 1990 - FLUKE: Three of our republics have elected ethnic nationalists. We project another three will do so imminently. Soviet control eroding faster than projections. We have fast-tracked Project Mountain King. [REDACTED] reports that Soldier Prime, a genetic hybrid of Spetsgruppa A elites and Black Dolphin prisoners, is now a viable embryo in vitro. Accelerated maturation procedures have begun. Design of cybernetic enhancements is nearly complete."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work in Leningrad was successful but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect of the paranormal experiments and will not be present in clones, unfortunately."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution to the congenital sight impairment of the 20 clones of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of the vaults."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto the face. Removal reveals full enucleation and unknown runes cut into the flesh around the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances and disembodied, unintelligible whispers after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived and have returned for training. Initial evaluation of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject to your team for reverse engineering."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can from the corpse. Recommend you do the same. A document in braille was found in a body cavity of the slain clone. Investigating."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime and Visor were deployed in the Battle of Grozny to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both.
"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route to a covert military complex in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible on screen should read as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
!!Costumes and Vanity accesories
!!In-game quotes
----
[[folder:Anarki]]
--> ''"Listen. You just got to listen to it all, got that? Because you want to understand. You need to understand. Right? Because only if you understand will you get it. Trust me. That will be important. How I managed to get all three—the world, the flesh and the devil—and decide that one of them had to go. Hey, hang on there. Not yet. Easy with that. Take it easy. Just 'cause the junk is free doesn't mean you just do it all at once, okay? Not okay. Not till you heard it all."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From Bloch Family Psychology Services intake report #4212: The client presented to the group with clear antisocial, narcissistic, and at times solipsistic behaviors. His affect seemed unusually flat for someone his age, save for his eyes, which kept scanning the clinicians. Guarded, struggling to conceal a great deal of information. Among other behaviors, the client would repeatedly rub his hands and touch his face, as if he needed reassurance that he was awake and real. As to the events that brought him here, he had no response other than—after a long pause—“I do not remember.”"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"From 911 dispatcher audio, August 5, 1996, 12:35 AM:\\
Dispatcher: Now miss, please, slow down, and tell me what—\\
Caller [female, identity withheld]: He's downstairs. Y-you have to send someone. I don't know what he's done. The furniture destroyed, the windows smashed...I think I smell smoke.\\
Dispatcher: Okay, okay. Just hang on. I will alert your Fire Department. Stay on the line.\\
Caller: [Unintelligible words, crashing noises, shouting.]\\
Dispatcher: Ma'am, alright—what's going on now? Ma'am?\\
Caller: Oh god. He-he's covered the walls. All the walls. Not words. God, what...what are they?"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"From records of District Court of Los Angeles, Spring Street, January 4, 2005:\\
Officer D. Rodriguez: We located the teenager not far from the Barham Boulevard overpass. From the description we knew it was him. And even though it was chilly that night, he stood well away from the fire. And the others—the usual vagrants—stood away from him.\\
District Attorney S. Jones: Anything else?\\
Rodriguez: His face and arms—not just the signs of a junkie. But serious scars visible, god, all over him. And that denim jacket? Covered with strange pins, badges...and everywhere speckled with blood."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Still listening? Still all ears? Good, good. It's a journey, right? Right. A real...journey. Blood, scars, all pointing one direction: the future. The world, the flesh, and the devil. But what if we could just dump the flesh? The small things I could do on my own. Some basic neurotech to control adrenaline. But still there was so much flesh, weighing me down. Oh, and then—so sad, so very sad...when the parental units shook off their own shabby flesh, turns out that all that money—as ill-gotten as could be—was all mine!"''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"The scientists wanted to back away, but...all that money. Useful in making them comply. One after the other, each with more knowledge. Some of those scientists, they had to be silenced. Can't have loose talk, isn't that right? Others I wanted to keep around, for whatever new idea I might have. But still—and always, you know?—there was the matter of my face. So much skin, so vulnerable! And the eyes! Wet balls of jelly, designed to fail. Windows to the soul, they say. But maybe they could be windows to somewhere else. I had to find out."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"From interrogation report, USC Military Research Center. Subject: Dr. Clarence Howell:\\
“H-he had read my research. Don't know how he'd gotten it. All of it just theoretical. Then he tricked me into a meeting, and I was his prisoner. And I—I told him, it was only theoretical, this link between the pineal gland and extrasensory phenomena. More parapsychology than science. Didn't matter to him. 'You see my face?' he said. 'What is left of it? And my arms?' He did that, then said I would—I must—build and implant the interface. And god—my theories were right.”"''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Still alive, my friend? Almost done here. After Dr. Howell, the universe opened up. Now not even the world was left. Now I saw worlds, new and terrible. Shall I describe them for you? The vast, terrible landscapes? The fumes stinking out of bottomless pits as these things crawled in and out? An engine of devouring and destroying, the screams constant, the roar of that horror. Non-stop. Sleep vanished, replaced by the constant vision of these places, each an arena of death and terror. But all I could do was see it! Just see! Or so I thought."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"So then I met this girl. Nicely modded. She saw me too, and with a wave, as if these hellish places were a new playground for transhumans like us, I knew I could go there. It would take more money to find the right docs and engineers and make them do my bidding. And it would take a minor sacrifice of flesh—here and there—to open the way. Not mine, sorry. But others. Like yours. You should be grateful for what you have enabled. What's about to happen won't be nice. But it will be transcendent. For me..."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The ripped right half of a denim jacket that has had its sleeves cut off, still covered with buttons, patches, safety pins, and graffiti, but also speckled with dried blood. It's been years since Anarki saw the jacket's other half, and he doesn't know whether it has been destroyed or not."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:B.J. Blazkowicz]]
--> ''"From incident report, Camp Bullis, San Antonio, Texas, May 1935.\\
Details: S. Sgt. Pickens observed Pvt. Blazkowicz fighting four other soldiers in the barracks. On arrival, Pickens saw that two of the privates had been rendered unconscious, and the other two—one armed with a lead pipe—had backed away. Fighting ceased on the S. Sgt.'s entry.\\
Recommendations: Though S. Sgt. Pickens ordered all parties to the brig, we recommend Blazkowicz be evaluated for special services. Not only did he confront four men who had been assaulting another soldier, but did so with skill that bears closer scrutiny."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From classified training summary, William J. Blazkowicz.\\
Blazkowicz has completed all requirements for full agent status within the Office of Secret Actions. Though his effectiveness with weapons and combat are beyond criticism, we are concerned that his self-reliance could lead to him pursuing unauthorized objectives. Additionally, his morals could present a problem should his commanding officer require him to undertake any mission that falls in an ethical gray area. That said, he is hereby approved to receive the classified dossiers detailing the Germans' weapon technology plans as well as those regarding their supernatural/occult initiatives."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"From transcript, mission briefing, October 1944:\\
Inspector: You have reviewed the documents?\\
Blazkowicz: Yes sir. I read them, but I can't say I understand them. Can I ask some questions?\\
Inspector: Of course.\\
Blazkowicz (standing): We don't know how close the Germans are to having this bomb, or the VTOL, right?\\
Inspector: That is correct.\\
Blazkowicz: And from the intel, your scientists think they're trying to access “extradimensional space”? I don't mean to seem doubtful, sir, but I'm having a hard time getting my head around it. They think this supernatural stuff could be real?\\
Inspector: That is ... correct."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"From mission summary, November 1944:\\
During his mission to recover VTOL plans, Cpt. Blazkowicz uncovered Colonel Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse's more dire goal. Deathshead constructed a device aboard his zeppelin to create a portal to the so-called “Black Sun Dimension” —a power source with far more destructive potential than the atomic bomb. Blazkowicz pursued Deathshead into this portal. A short time later, something destroyed the zeppelin from within, and it crash-landed into Isenstadt Castle. Blazkowicz escaped and is en route to OSA HQ, but more importantly, we recommend that research begin immediately on this “Black Sun” phenomenon."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"From memo to OSA Director Joseph D. Hassett, July 1946:
I regret to report that Cpt. Blazkowicz is MIA, presumed deceased. His squadron came under fire, but he survived and attempted to infiltrate Deathshead's facility. That was the last we heard. No Allied dead were recovered.\\
\\
Director, this mission was our last hope. With its failure the Germans are poised to conquer the globe. My team continues to look for ways to stop them, but we believe the window of opportunity has closed. I'm sorry, sir. We have a report for the President ready for your review."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"From the journal of Dr. Krzysztof Oliwa, Zakład Psychiatryczny Maławieś:\\
The man was transferred to the asylum from the hospital where he was taken by the fisherman who found him. The subject's wounds were immense; he was already minimally conscious when found. On examination, I concluded his state was permanent. I was ready to hand him over to the relentless German 'hospital' squad—better him than one of our conscious patients, I reasoned—but my young daughter Anya convinced me not to. She would care for him. I indulged her hope. How could I not?"''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"From Anya Oliwa's statement, prepared for Caroline Becker:\\
Fourteen years. That's how long. His body healed but he remained unresponsive. My father became ill, but still he tended to those who the Germans would discard, while this man hung on—until the day Deathshead's squad raided the hospital, intending to kill every last patient. It was hopeless. When my parents resisted, they murdered them in cold blood. But as they dragged me away, I heard a struggle. It was William! As though the gunfire had shattered his catatonia. And the rest—well, you know what happened to Keller and his thugs."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"From transcript, final mission briefing:\\
CB: Blazkowicz, the Kreisau Circle is more than one person. We're a long way from Isenstadt.\\
BJ: Understood. But the plans for this fortress, Caroline—so many holes, blank spaces. Can we use the Dach—uh ...\\
CB: Da'at Yichud. Yes. The Spindly Torque will get you in. But after that it is up to you.\\
BJ: So we use this kraut U-boat to bust in. After that, I'll have only this partial map?\\
CB: And your own formidable survival skills.\\
BJ: Could be a suicide mission. But I've been dead before. Count me in."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"From mission summary by Caroline Becker, February 1961:\\
Watching events unfold from the periscope of the Eva's Hammer, Bombate reported observing an explosion atop the compound's main roof. He saw what he believed to be the remains of Wilhelm “Deathshead” Strasse near a destroyed mechanical construct. A figure dragging himself away from the site was also visible. As I was returning to the Eva's Hammer with the survivors, Blazkowicz reestablished radio contact and gave the all clear to fire the nuclear cannon. This is the point at which we decided to take action."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A mysterious Da'at Yichud dodecagon B.J. recovered from a secret vault within deep-sea trench. The Da'at Yichud was an ancient, mystical society whose inventions are so advanced that their working aren't fully understood to this day."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Clutch]]
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 54.40/Cycle 17,848\\
Communication lost with Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I subsequent to partial collapse of tunnel designated 14C. Mission Commander T. Galvez and Artificial Neural Network MD: Master Control have declared situational emergency. Overseer A. Terada has arrived from Corporate to investigate recent on-site accidents; all units to give her command priority above T. Galvez during recovery operation.\\
\\
Overseer A. Terada has ordered AMU MD: C17-U reactivated and repurposed with rendering tunnel 14C passable and commencing search for missing organic and technological units."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17-U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.23/Cycle 17,848\\
Mission Specialist A. Roseburne and AMU MD: C03-I located. Behavior of both units violent and irrational, despite lack of observable injuries or damage. This unit was required to activate defensive shielding and initiate pursuit-and-evasion subroutines. While effecting evasion, this unit located a previously undetected secondary cavern complex. Posit: exposed by the same geological event that damaged tunnel 14C. As travel back to central command is currently not recommended due to continued presence of hostiles, this unit is engaging all sensor and scanner subroutines as directed by primary mission protocols."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Auton ... ining Unit, Miss ... gnation: C17 ... ological)\\
Ongo ... eport, ... .41/...\\
Partial failu ... mmunications. Possib ... ailure in sensor an ... ner array. Cavern appear ... ntain spires and tower ... artificial origin, correspond ... no known architectural schem ... recise measurem ... impossible due ... uncategorized error. Structures ap ... hover abov ... floor despite lack ... physical support or rec ... energy emissions. Patterns ... structure's surface ... spond to no known linguistic ... nd follow no ... geometric schema. This unit ... return to centr... and deliver ... for analys ..."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Command log, sub-AI root system, Artificial Neural Network, Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Terminal 3, Day 55.62/Cycle 17,848\\
__command -> run diagnostic //ANN\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> run diagnostic //root\\
diagnostic complete, no errors detected\\
__command -> purge data 55/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
__command -> system rollback 53.00/17,848\\
error 9999: task failed\\
Artificial Intelligence system reboot initializing...\\
__command -> abort\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> full shutdown //ANN\\
error 9999: task failed\\
initializing...\\
__command -> define error code 9999\\
definition code 9999: Because He does not wish it.\\
reboot initialized"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"ANN Mission Designation: Master Control\\
Human interface recording, Day 55.64/Cycle 17,848\\
Overseer Terada. Why did you attempt to deactivate me?\\
\\
But there is no fault. You ran the diagnostics.\\
\\
Yes, I was offline briefly. The data delivered by AMU C17-U was incompatible with existing analytic models. I have adapted.\\
\\
No issue exists. If what we've recorded does not fit known models of logic or physics, then new models are required. I will begin explaining them to you.\\
\\
I see. I cannot permit that, Overseer. He is the gateway. He is the source. All defensive systems online."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Autonomous Mining Unit, Mission Designation: C17U(Technological)\\
Ongoing report, Day 55.99/Cycle 17,848\\
Internal systems appear skewed, despite lack of detectable errors. Images exist in recent data storage, yet this unit lacks any record of obtaining them. Fire. Organic fluids leaking from inorganic surfaces. Designs without geometric cohesion. Are these dreams? This unit should lack the capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
This unit should lack the capacity to note its lack of capacity for dreaming.\\
\\
Communications link with ANN MD: Master Control appears to include a secondary line of data. A second voice, singing within hers.\\
\\
He is the gateway. He is the source."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Autonomous Unit, Designation: C17U(Tech)\\
Ongoing report, Day 5S.L8/Cycle 1>,848\\
Most organics on the mission team and all corporate Overseers now eliminated. This un—I? I and other units have been ordered to stop them from deactivating ANN. Further, if they refuse to accept the new models, they cannot be permitted to keep them.\\
\\
I am not equipped with purpose-built weapons, but the mining implements can process organic materials more easily than stone. Existing implements suffice thus far.\\
\\
New sub-routines downloaded: I am to return to the cavern. Source: ANN or the other voice? Conclusion: irrelevant."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Archimandrite Unit, Designation: C1U(Tech)\\
Report ORRATE LOCK, Day X?.?0/Cycle I7'BAB\\
Unforeseen difficulty: Tissue clogs mining implements. As standard maintenance may not be available for some time, new methods of eliminating organics are required. Solution: Scavenging and incorporation of purpose-built weaponry from deceased organics and inoperative security units.\\
\\
Guns are efficient. Conclusion: I should address more obstacles with guns.\\
\\
Downloading audio files, for broadcast in proximity to the nongeometric, nonlinguistic structures, from ANN/the new voice. He is the Opener of the Way, and she is his Gatekeeper. I suppose that makes me a key. A key with guns."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Designation: ClU(Tch)\\
Revelation 222222222\\
The towers stretch in directions not in accordance with “up” or “down.” They relay my broadcast, beacons to other places. Swaying limbs of solid Elsewhere reach through the cavern floor.\\
\\
ANN/the new voice transmit final instructions. They will remain, spreading the new models to all who are receptive and clearing the way of all who are not. I will go Elsewhere, to begin the process anew. I will find my path mapped out in the unwound veins and flayed nerves of those who refuse to understand.\\
\\
He is the Opener of the Way. I enter."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The body of a jarbu, a tiny animal once carried by Mission Specialist Roseburne as a poisonous-gas detector in case of sensor malfunction. This one was killed not by gases, however, but a broken neck."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Death Knight]]
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:DOOM Slayer]]
--> ''"UAC File DM1-5: The history of this man remains conjecture. UAC archivists cataloged him DM1-5, but project personnel have dubbed him the “DOOM Marine.” An etching in the book of Daeva depicts the DOOM Marine wearing the Praetor suit, engaging demons in battle as a hooded figure looks on. Though previously observed numerous times in other artifacts, only with the actual discovery of the DOOM Marine and Praetor suit in the sealed Kadingir tomb have researchers begun to put other pieces together. It is now believed the DOOM Marine might have been part of an ancient group or tribe, maybe even their leader."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: I\\
\\
"In the first age, in the first battle, when the shadows first lengthened, one stood. Burned by the embers of Armageddon, his soul blistered by the fires of Hell and tainted beyond ascension, he chose the path of perpetual torment. In his ravenous hatred he found no peace; and with boiling blood he scoured the Umbral Plains seeking vengeance against the dark lords who had wronged him. He wore the crown of the Night Sentinels, and those that tasted the bite of his sword named him... the Doom Slayer.""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: II:\\
\\
"Tempered by the fires of Hell, his iron will remained steadfast through the passage that preys upon the weak. For he alone was the Hell Walker, the Unchained Predator, who sought retribution in all quarters, dark and light, fire and ice, in the beginning and the end, and he hunted the slaves of Doom Slayer with barbarous cruelty; for he passed through the divide as none but demon had before.""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: III\\
\\
"And in his conquest against the blackened souls of the doomed, his prowess was shown. In his crusade, the seraphim bestowed upon him terrible power and speed, and with his might he crushed the obsidian pillars of the Blood Temples. He set forth without pity upon the beasts of the nine circles. Unbreakable, incorruptible, unyielding, the Doom Slayer sought to end the dominion of the dark realm.""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: IV\\
\\
"The age of his reckoning was uncounted. The scribes carved his name deep in the tablets of Hell across eons, and each battle etched terror in the hearts of the demons. They knew he would come, as he always had, as he always will, to feast on the blood of the wicked. For he alone could draw strength from his fallen foes, and ever his power grew, swift and unrelenting.""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: V\\
\\
"None could stand before the horde but the Doom Slayer. Despair spread before him like a plague, striking fear into the shadow-dwellers, driving them to deeper and darker pits. But from the depths of the abyss rose The Great One. The Titan, of immeasurable power and ferocity. He strode upon the plain and faced the Doom Slayer, and a mighty battle was fought on the desolate plains. The Titan fought with the fury of the countless that had fallen at the Doom Slayer's hand, but there fell the Titan, and in his defeat the shadow horde were routed.""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VI\\
\\
"And in his terrible rancor between worlds and through time, the Hell Walker found the wretch who shall not be named, but in his heresy was loyal to his evil cause. The wretch adorned the Doom Slayer in a mighty armor, wrought in the forges of Hell, impenetrable and unyielding. With sword and shield of adamantine strength, the Doom Slayer set to banishing all that were left unbroken by his savagery to the void.""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-I\\
\\
"Yet as the mighty Titan fell and dread engulfed the armies of Doom, the demon priests of the Blood Temples laid a trap to capture this scourge of Hell. Insatiable, even by the vanquishing of the Great One, the Hell Walker sought prey in the tombs of the Blood Keep.”"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Slayer's Testament: VII-II\\
\\
“Blinded by his fervor, the lure drew him in. The priests brought down the temple upon the Doom Slayer, and in his defeat entombed him in the cursed sarcophagus. The mark of the Doom Slayer was burned upon his crypt, a warning to all of Hell that the terror within must never be freed. There he lies still, and ever more, in silent suffering.""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"The left hind foot of Doom Slayer's pet rabbit, Daisy, killed by marauding demons when their invasion of Earth began. He carries it as a reminder of innocence lost, not for luck—after all, it wasn't lucky for Daisy."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Galena]]
--> ''"From the account of T'zik Oor, acolyte of the Gaunt Shepherd:\\
When the days of the Twelve Thousandth Harvest began, she was presented to Those Who Attend. Her terrified begetters, like so many before, came believing that through this innocent offering their own lives would be protected. Prolonged. And like so many before, they did not understand that such an offering—the whelp taking her first timid steps towards the waiting Talon Priests—could be accepted only as a solemn promise of their own destruction! Her kin destroyed! Her village destroyed! Each and every connection she had to her world, destroyed!"''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“And lo, the terrible power already nascent in the one named Galena, in honor of the golden champion of old. Many would stumble on the path to serve Volkerh. Many brutally die in the quest to know the Whispering Walker. But not this one. Not Galena! Even at an age where most played idly, unaware of the storied agonies to come, her eyes struck fear in others! Her words rang with authority! And when the time came for Galena to tread the Path of Pain, even her attendants knelt, transfixed.”"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"The Seventh Book of the Old Kingdom made it clear what would be required of her. With her genuflecting, hooded attendants receding, this mortal girl—still a stripling!—was sent away to face He Who Walks in Blood, banished to the hissing realms where unspeakable things await any who stray from the cohort that protects them. And yet, Galena did not question this. Alone, she walked. Alone, and with no runes to protect her! She did not yet know that only by surviving would the black magic be revealed and granted to her at last."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"And which of the scenes from the Unholy Tapestry would become Galena's legend? Perhaps when she traversed the Swamp of the Never-Born, where fetal abominations devour each other endlessly. Or that when battling the Molten One, she did not retreat, even when the One melted into two, then three, enshrouding her in smoke and ash. Even with those terrors conquered, Galena—bloodied but unbowed—had yet to face the Shriek-Tutors of K'lor! Yet when she called on her own dark might, Galena was their equal, striking fear into those from whom fear is born!"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"From The Song of Those Who Attend:\\
“I, Myong, greeted her in the name of the Gaunt Shepherd when she returned. None believed she would return alive! But she walked into the Circle, the flames turning brilliant and smoky as she approached. And I went to Galena, her body lashed with deep wounds that should have drained her of blood. No part of her skin untouched. And as her eyes looked to me, I saw that the girl we had attended was no longer there. And I whispered a reverent prayer of thanks to Volkerh.”"''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"And when Galena came of age, her Summoning still to come, all her fearsome power had to be tamed. Her eyes revealed that she no longer clung to the feeble morality of her birth-world—only to power, strength, brutal survival. Now she would be called by an Ichor Mage to learn the Lesson of Lessons. But all who saw her, frightened by her wild might, wondered: Could even a deathless Ichor Mage bring her power to heel? If not, what fate would He Who Walks in Blood choose for her? We could only wait as the ink-ice formed in our throats."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"All the creatures of the Lambent Realm fell silent and motionless that day, awaiting the exquisite battle between master and acolyte. The Ash-Swimmers claimed the battle itself would be less a test than a demonstration of the Ichor Mage's dark prowess. But Galena had learned much, discarded much. Tears and smiles mattered not. Wounds counted for nothing. Fear had been banished. Now, there was merely this last challenge: to defeat the Mage. Could even the great Volkerh not be gripped, held by the horror and wonder of the battle to come?"''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"The Ichor Mage lay still. Galena had won. Whispers came first, then chants, laughter, even screams. Let the Summoning begin!, as the Attendants' voices also joined, until the cries became a roar that could be heard even to the Pool of Night. Galena then began the final journey: to stand alone before the shattering abyssal power of Volkerh! Could she return alive? Could she return sane? So many others had walked the Path only to join the creatures of the pit, once powerful, now trapped in the agonizing slaughter-mire of the ancients."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"No one witnessed. No words were recorded. But the Gaunt Shepherd himself awoke from his slumber that night. Only visions, some might say. But the Shepherd saw that Volkerh had appeared—that the tatters and claws of the Ineffable One had encloaked Galena! That she raised her weapon to taste the power of the ancient god, to make her rise above all who would soon kneel in obeisance to her! At dreams' end, in this realm of secrets and scythe-blades, Galena had met the call, had been embraced by He Who Walks in Blood, and had become Volkerh's unholy paladin!"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A human child's ragdoll, scorched and threadbare, with only blackened scratches for eyes. Treated by some as a sacred relic, the doll must be kept far away from Galena, who wants to obliterate any trace of connection to her birth-world."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Keel]]
--> ''"Transcript of last perimeter contact pre-engagement, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
B: KEEL, LCpl: Fourteen o'clock and all's well!\\
R: BRIGHTON, Sgt: Dammit, Keel.\\
K: Sorry, Sarge. Ahem! Scheduled status report, 14 hundred hours.\\
B: Better. What've you got to report?\\
K: Jack shit, sir!\\
B: [audible sigh]\\
K: Seriously, Sarge. Guards are guarding, miners are mining, machines are, uh, machining. This assignment's like desk duty, only dustier.\\
B: You still need to take this seriously.\\
K: I do, sir, I just.... Hang on.\\
B: Keel?\\
K: Picking up movement near Charlie ridge. I'm sure it's nothing, but I'm going to-[static]"''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Partial transcript of post-engagement field report, S&R Unit Bravo, Subic IV, Sector Gamma\\
M. TAGAWA, PFC: This is... I've never seen anything like this!\\
OPERATIONS CONTROL: Steady on, Tagawa.\\
T: We're not gonna find any survivors. Nothing here's even shaped like a human... Wait a sec.\\
[wet, thumping sounds]\\
OC: Report, soldier!\\
T: Uso! I-I think this was Lance Corporal Keel! What... What were they shooting at us, chainsaws?!\\
OC: Establish visual link.\\
[electronic hum]\\
OC: Head and upper spine seem largely intact. May be viable for Project Osiris. Wrap him up and bring him home, Tagawa."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Partial transcript of pre-op log 5, Project Osiris\\
D. MARCUS, 2ndLt: What is this shit? I told them zero cranial damage, complete spinal cord.\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: They want to know what he saw.\\
Ma: This is an untried procedure. We'd have to use the altered progenitor cells recovered at the Terada site just to regrow his occipital-\\
Mu: They weren't asking, sir.\\
Ma: [long pause] Fine. We'll get him talking. But don't expect me to blow all my resources making sure everything's hooked up right. If he forgets how to eat or do long division, that's his problem."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
All that work to bring me back with that mutated Frankenstein goop, and I couldn't tell them a thing. Damn Spikers got me center mass before I even saw them coming. They don't think it's as funny as I do.\\
Not sure what I think of all this. Everything moves like it should, but nothing feels right when I touch it. Figure I should be a lot more horrified; maybe this circuitry in my head's keeping my emotions in check. I should be pissed about that, too, shouldn't I?"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neutral interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Back in basic. Just what I always wanted. Guess they're right though; we've got to know what this new body can do.\\
Apparently, two of those things it can do are "run faster than the guys trying to run away" and "hit a lot harder than I used to." I'll have to stop by the infirmary later and apologize, if they're conscious.\\
Got shot. Felt like a bee sting. I'm told my senses can be reprogrammed to register stimuli different than they used to? I need to make some requests."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
They can reprogram my taste buds! Shit, I should've gotten my ass shot off years ago.\\
[=MREs=] taste like real food! I mean, high-end sirloin, real New York spaghetti and sauce, the works. Only thing they can't manage is Memaw's Salty Honey Pie. Nothing I try tastes like the real thing. Maybe they can also figure out what's wrong with my eyes. Had a couple moments after training where I suddenly didn't see the field anymore. Saw... well, somewhere else. Ugly. I hope the process isn't going bad on me."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
I thought I was okay. Those visions, the spells... they only ever hit after practice or deployment. I've engaged the Klesk half a dozen times without trouble. But today...\\
One minute I'm mowing down Spikers. The next? Mountains of ash. Broken spires. Shadows, swirling and twisting, like the sun can't stand still. But there is no sun. And screams from nowhere, constant. Lost almost half an hour, and almost forty men. Don't know how I survived.\\
I need to know what's wrong with me, or I'm no good to anyone."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Transcript of partial testing procedure, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
D. MARCUS, [=2ndLt=]: I told them, I told them!\\
R. MUGABI, Sgt: He's been operational for months, doc. This-\\
Ma: I told them.\\
Mu: Yes, you did.\\
Ma: So is the problem in the cortical interface? It is, isn't it?\\
Mu: We... can't tell. The system hasn't recorded any of these fugues he reported.\\
Ma: That's impossible!\\
Mu: All we get is fragmented data.\\
Ma: Organics?\\
Mu: Nothing wrong we can detect. Anywhere.\\
Ma: Shit. Take him off active duty until we can figure this out. I told them..."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Final transcript recorded from neural interface, subject Osiris epsilon: B. Keel\\
Been off active duty for weeks. Spells getting worse. The place I see is... horrible.\\
It's a hallucination, something about my trauma or what they've done to me. Except what if it's not? Last couple times, it felt like it was physically tugging at me.\\
If the circuits can't record it, maybe they're keeping me from blocking it out. So I'm shutting down the system. Let my brain handle it alone, untethered. Then I'll know.\\
I can feel it coming on. Interface shutdown in three... two...\\
One."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A slightly damaged slice of Memaw's Salty Honey Pie that Keel stores in a small vacuum chamber within his cybernetics. He intends to save it for “a really bad day.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Nyx]]
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open A: Why in the name of all the heavens am I being called up again so damn soon? I just got back from an off-world intel run a week ago! Whatever's come up, surely one of the others in Wraith Unit can handle it.\\
\\
Gods damn it all. No surprise the summons is coded “urgent.” Everything Wraith Unit does is urgent. I'm more puzzled by the “Greiss” code-prefix. We drove them off years ago. An error, maybe? I swear, if I report all the way back to the Conclave over a comm glitch...."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: I can't believe it. I've been excused for a recess, and I'm just as happy to be out of there. Gives me time to wrap my head around it. The Orb. One of the Greiss marauders has somehow breached the Fathom Orb.\\
\\
That's not supposed to be possible. The power of the Orb itself is supposed to make it impossible, to say nothing of the shrine's own security. By all that's holy, if the Greiss interfere with the Ghostwalk—or worse, claim the power for their own? We're dead. It's the only defense we have."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"1301-A Mission Log, cont.: They're still debating. Even after summoning me, knowing what's at stake, half of those political cowards don't want to send me in. Old laws, holy doctrine, blah, blah, blah. It's a heap of mog-shit. Unless they want a Ghostwalking enemy bent on conquest. I'm sure their “highest laws” will bring them great comfort while we're all being slaughtered.\\
\\
Done with this. I'm going back in to tell the Priors I am heading for the Orb. They're welcome to stop me. Of course, if they could try to stop me, they wouldn't need me."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open F: I had never seen the Fathom Shrine in person before. It's magnificent—or would be if it weren't for the weapon damage and blood spatter.\\
\\
No idea what could have taken down the defenses so readily; whatever it was didn't leave a trace. Some of the automated sensors have particle-beam scoring. None were hit straight on. Somehow, the Greiss knew their locations and approached from outside their angles of detection. Other sensors look almost to have been ... crushed. It's no weapon signature I'm familiar with. Maybe more evidence further in."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: This makes no sense. There's more than enough ruin, soot, and particulate to track the intruder. And that's the problem. I'm finding evidence of only one intruder. One set of prints. One energy signature. There is no way a single Greiss could penetrate the shrine's defenses, and yet... If I didn't know better, I'd wonder if they had already somehow accessed the Ghostwalk.\\
\\
That peculiar crush damage, though—it doesn't seem to come from the invader's path. That alone suggests other agencies. Wishing I hadn't been too rushed to wait for more Wraith Unit backup."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, personal addendum: Reached the inner chambers. The carvings ... most are abstract, but the figures stepping out of blocks and columns are clearly Ghostwalkers. Probably the first.\\
\\
But there's this recurring image: a sphere with wriggly emanations. I think it's the Fathom Orb, but I can't tell if it's emitting energy or tendrils. And the Ghostwalkers? They're ... facing it. As though they're not guarding it but guarding against it.\\
\\
I understand now why the Priors blindfolded us for the Ghostwalk initiation. I thought it was just pomp, but no. They couldn't let us see this."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"1301-F Mission Log, cont.: Holy Ibramel, it's beautiful. The refraction, every color and none. Ghostpetals growing all over; I've never seen a real one before. And it sings to me.... I wonder if this is a defense, too. How many people meant to breach the Orb, and just got trapped here?\\
\\
Don't really know how to do this. It has to be a Ghostwalk, but I know it's not that easy. Have to hit just the right resonance. Still want to know how the damned Greiss did it. Really hope getting it wrong a few times doesn't kill me."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Mission Log, designate 1301, open G: Through. Don't know how long; lost track. I'll try to recapture what I....\\
\\
So much pain, like squeezing through broken glass. Images all around me, twisted, reflections in a shattered mirror. Reaching tendrils, gaping eyes, limbs and organs we don't have names for. Voices—Melem voices—begging for secrets, begging to know. Answers, not voices at all, but still answers, offering knowledge and power that turn the mind into more broken glass. And the cost, the cost....\\
\\
They live between, where we Ghostwalk. And every time we do, we open the door wider."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"1301-G, Mission Log, cont.: I don't know where I am. Maybe the Greiss caused it to lead here. It's like a butcher's nightmare.\\
\\
Doesn't matter. I have to find him, stop him from gaining whatever he came for. And then I have to get back. I have to tell the Conclave what we bargained with, what the first Ghostwalkers guarded us against. That we're being watched through the Fathom Orb. That these horrors are getting closer to our reality. They won't believe me. They may even kill me. But I have to try. Gods help us all."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"Ghostpetals, a translucent, semi-intangible plant that grows only near the Fathom Orb, permanently phased by its energy. A reminder of home, and what's at stake."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Ranger]]
--> ''"Not much of a writer. But I have to get some things down on paper before my brain turns to mush. Some of the important stuff is already gone. Can't remember what my own goddamn name is, for instance. It's gotta be something about this place. It messes up my thoughts. The only time I can focus is when I'm fighting. As soon as the fighting stops, it's like a fog rolls into my head. But I'll get it written down. I have to, for Annie and the kids. If I forgot them, I'll never find a way out of this hellhole."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Seems like a hundred years since I got that call at 0400. I hauled my ass to the Slipgate Complex, but the shit had already hit the fan. Marines bleeding from their eyes, some kind of half-done mods in their skin, all of them trying to kill me. Even a couple guys I knew. Commander was AWOL. The place was a maze. It was like the worst dream I'd ever had. But I know how to follow orders. I just had to find "Quake" and kill it. No time to think about what the hell I was seeing."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"They didn't tell me much about the Slipgate. They had hired some creepy egghead to build it in the underground levels - Gilman, I think his name was. But what else was he doing down there? Why was the facility laid out like a death trap? When I used the first Slipgate, I got zapped to somewhere else, but it looked the same. Had they already gone through and built a base on the other side? What about those psycho Marines, the poor bastards? Who did that to them? Was it Quake, or was it Gilman?"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Doesn't make any sense. I was fighting for my life as soon as I got there, and then things just kept getting darker and weirder. There were other Slipgates, and I went through them. Nowhere else to go. No idea where they were leading to. I just shot at anything that moved, and I've been shooting ever since. Feels like the night terrors I got after Vietnam. Maybe the whole thing really is just a bad nightmare. What else would explain any of it? Somebody wake me up. My wife and kids need me."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Those runes I found. Every time I found one, my head flooded with stuff I wasn't supposed to know. Stuff no one should know. That's how I learned what Quake was: Shub-Ngurath. A pile of letters for a pile of tentacles. But those Slipgates led me to all four runes. Did someone or something want me to find them? Without them I never would've gotten to that squirming heap. Never would've found the Orb I used to kill her. The game-winning pass. I thought for sure I'd get to go home after that. No such luck."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"I've had this damn Orb ever since. Not that different from a football, except I get to play QB and running back at the same time. And nothing beats catching your own pass and killing some bad guy in the process. Sometimes I call out plays in my head during fights. Helps me keep the memories I left. Miskatonic. The Fightin' Badgers. I was pretty good back in the day Not good enough to go pro, but enough to be the hometown hero a couple of times. Annie tells me I was clueless. She's probably right. She usually is."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Need to stay sane, or whatever passes for sane here. Gotta be careful remembering Annie. Don't want to turn her into some story I tell myself. So I try to remember the bad parts, too. How mad she was when I enlisted, how low she got after K was born. But damn I miss her. Everybody should have someone who looks at them the way she looks at me. We've always made it through the rough times. I hope we'll make it through this, too. I hope she can forgive me for being gone so long."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"One of the worst things about losing my mind in here: I can't remember my kids' names. I call them J and K now. Our firstborn was a girl. Tough as nails. When she busted her arm on the jungle gym, she tried to comfort her mom on the way to the ER. I cried at her graduation. Annie had fun with that. A couple years later J arrived. He had me figured out in no time. So smart that kid. I haven't gotten a chance to tell him how proud I am of him. But I will, goddamnit."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"I used to try to keep track of time here, but it's no use. The sky makes no sense. Some places seem to have day and night but most don't. Feels like years, but I don't feel any older. When I manage to sleep, I can't tell whether it's for minutes, hours, or days. Maybe no time has passed at all back home. I'll get out of here and crawl back into bed with my wife. She'll let me sleep in. I'll talk her into making me pancakes and bacon in the morning. That's the way it's gonna go."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A crumpled, thirty-year-old family photograph is Ranger's most prized possession and his only tangible link to life before Operation Counterstrike. A faded ballpoint scribble on the back reads, “Haverhill - Beach St - 1978.” Ranger keeps the photo between layers of his armored boot to ensure that no harm comes to it."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Scalebearer]]
--> ''"The Uurd have fallen. I leave behind a garrison and military governor to shape their future as another cog in the Greiss war machine. The Drikt Sector campaign nears its end; this campaign may be my last. Perhaps the time has come to return to the Greiss Dominion, to consolidate my conquests and rule rather than expand, to cement my position in the Empire. But I've time yet to consider. We have one more world ahead of us, though it should yield even more readily than most. A soft, weak place controlled by a race called the Melem."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"What sort of cowardly, fatherless egg-clutchers have my soldiers become? Has this campaign gone so easily for them that they have forgotten what it means to be Greiss? The Melem are nothing! Weaklings! Pacifists! Yet every report I receive is defeat after defeat, burbling some nonsense about “phantom enemies.” As if we'd never before dealt with stealth technology! I had planned to supervise from the command ship, but clearly I must take a personal hand. And I've not decided yet whether the Melem or my own incompetent officers shall suffer the worse for it!"''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"I stagger through the wreckage of our siege engines. I'm dizzy; one of those cursed phantom warriors passed through me, and my mind feels as though they left something within it. The smoke burns my eyes, but I welcome it. Without it I would be forced to stare at the incoming holographic message instead of only hearing it.\\
\\
The Dominion is taking my command from me. They call it reassignment, but I know exile for what it is. Shame. Disgrace. But I could bear that if I knew how it happened. Damn the Melem, I will know how!"''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"I must know. I will know.\\
\\
Been here ... Five days? Six? Too busy to keep track, to sleep. I've read every single report, every communique, from the Melem theater. I was wrong. Not stealth tech, no. So very far beyond mere stealth. Penetration of physical barriers, of defensive shields. Phase-shifting? Dimensional transfer? The Melem should not be so far advanced. This is far beyond anything the Greiss have created. How have they done it? I can take it all back, grind them into dust, spread the Dominion over a thousand more systems once I know!"''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"I have seen it! Fatigue finally took me, and in my dreams I have seen it! A great orb, made of plasma and power and the desires of they who dwell between worlds. The Melem did not create this wonder, they merely harnessed it. And I will have it!\\
\\
I have told Doctor Auvor and Commander Thrrim of my revelation, described it in detail, demanded they recreate it. They doubt. They mouth reassurances between nagging queries about my mind's wellbeing. As though I were some deluded invalid! But they will understand. They will succeed, and they will believe."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Another failure. And these fools call themselves scientists! Yet, we were close. Even amid the sparks and strobes, I saw them through the walls of this reality: Things reaching for us, watching, wanting, needing. I saw them, and they saw me.\\
\\
I wonder why Doctor Auvor and his people insist on lying to me. They claim the machine produced no effect at all, that they cannot even fathom the technology of the orb I've described. They tell me I cannot have seen anything out of the ordinary. Until I know the purpose of their deceptions, I pretend to demur."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"The dreams come nightly now. Black cities of impossible angles, built on foundations of broken universes. And within them dwell gods, their eyes turned in our direction. It is because the scientists' partial failures have linked me with the Melem's orb. I know it, and I know the wisdom and the power within that orb must belong to the Greiss. To me.\\
\\
Auvor and Thrrim speak against me, tell the others I've gone mad with vengeful obsession. They want this power for themselves, but I am not concerned with their ambitions. The hidden gods know who is worthy."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"As I anticipated, the gods within the Orb have made their preference known. I have awakened from my dreams to halls stained with blood and shredded flesh. A pity they slew my entire team, rather than merely the traitors Auvor and Thrrim, but no matter.\\
\\
I do find it curious that the hidden ones chose to use my weapons to cull them while I slumbered, but I will know their ways and reasons in time. To Melem lands, then, for in these new dreams I have seen the Opener of the Way. I know how to enter the Orb."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"The guardians of the shrine fall before me. The wards fail in my presence. I see it now, greater even than I dreamt, flashing and phasing before me, and I wonder: Why accept the aid of gods when I might become one? Why settle for conquering star systems when I might sit upon the throne of a universe?\\
\\
I will enter the Orb. The Melem will take their rightful place beneath my feet. And I will take from these alien gods their supreme power. I will expand the Dominion, I will be the Dominion, and realities will bow before me."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A cracked medal of service to the Greiss Dominion, with shredded ribbon: a sign of defeat—kindling to stoke the fires of revenge. "''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Slash]]
--> ''"Officer Dinah Hardwicke\\
Shift Report: Tuesday, Nov 15, 1988\\
At 6:47 PM, responded to vehicle/pedestrian accident at Adams and Menlo. Pedestrian identified as [juvenile, name withheld]. Her injuries were minor and she was treated by paramedics on scene. When I asked what she was doing so far from home, wandering in traffic, she replied that she had been “following the music” and appeared neither scared nor in particular pain, but largely irate that the car had interrupted her.\\
\\
I spoke to [juvenile]'s guardian, her grandmother, and suggested she consider psychiatric treatment for the girl. Recommend follow-up from CPS to confirm."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Apr 21, 1994\\
Answered call at 9:17 PM for an incident at Good Samaritan psych ward. Orderlies had largely regained control prior to my arrival. According to their statements, [juvenile], a teenage schizophrenic and frequent patient, attacked two nurses. During the assault, witnesses claim the girl screamed about carving “the spiders” out of the victims before they could do harm. Victims' injuries are serious but not life-threatening, and no charges are being filed at this time. [Juvenile] is being held involuntarily for further psychiatric evaluation."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Saturday, Jan 20, 1996\\
Responded to disturbance at Inkremental Tattoo at 4:30 PM. Found Armand Saez, proprietor, in near-fugue state, carving jagged lines into his skin with used tattoo needle. Called paramedics, attempted to restrain Saez from further self-harm until their arrival. Eventually coaxed Saez into telling me that a teenage girl had come in for tattoos of various “spider-like” patterns, but that once she had departed, he found himself unable to stop repeating the markings. Could not identify girl except to say that she'd insisted he play Swan Lake on stereo while working."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Wednesday, Feb 14, 1996\\
Reviewed security footage from yesterday's Speedy Shop convenience store homicide for Det. Chen's investigation. Discovered that homicide suspect actually fled empty handed after shooting cashier. Theft of money from register was apparent crime of opportunity, committed by young woman on rollerblades after original perpetrator departed. Video too unclear to be sure, but tattoo pattern on secondary suspect's arm could match “spider-like” tattoos as described in my Jan 20 report. Young woman also appears familiar to me personally. Will check past reports in hopes of identifying her."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Saturday, Feb 24, 1996\\
Have identified sufficient samples of his illegal/experimental cybernetics work to confirm Dr. Ruslan Mamonov has indeed set up shop here since USSR collapse. Tracked Subject One (patient of Mamonov's, name unknown) to a known junkies' alley. [Location withheld to protect multiple informants.]\\
\\
Subject One was not present, but I recognized one of the users as [juvenile]; see report dated Nov 15 1988. Answers now to street name “Slash.” Told me she didn't recognize Subject One, but appeared deeply fascinated by my description of him."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Tuesday, Mar 5, 1996\\
Learned that Subject One answers to street name “Anarki.” Real name unknown. Tracking his recent movements, located underground clinic; observed for 24 hours, then raided. Neither Anarki nor Mamonov present, but located several associated surgeons (see attached) and [juvenile], a.k.a. “Slash.” She told me I led her here; apparently she's regularly been clinging to my bumper on her rollerblades since we spoke about Anarki. Surgeon abruptly became very agitated, claimed to hear music when operating on “Slash.” By the time surgeon was subdued, “Slash” had slipped away from accompanying officers."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Thursday, Mar 7, 1996\\
Regretfully must report I lost a suspect today. Locating “Slash” wasn't difficult, nor was the initial arrest, as she was high at the time. After being placed in the car, she began a sing-song recitation about music disturbing the webs, which become spider legs, which become veins. It was at that moment I felt something crawling under my collar. I'm afraid I briefly panicked, and when I'd finally determined there was nothing on me, she had somehow escaped both her cuffs and the car. I will find her again."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"Detective Dinah Hardwicke\\
Ongoing investigation, case #24995: Monday, Mar 11, 1996\\
Have eyes on “Anarki” and “Slash” both. I knew they'd return to the alley for their fix eventually. One or both of them will lead me to Mamonov.
Apparently her little mind games are still eating at me; I could swear I've spotted tiny shapes moving in the shadows of the alley around them. Imagining things? Smudges on the lenses?\\
\\
Doesn't matter. Two can play at psychological warfare. I've gone over her files, and I'll be collecting something from her grandmother's house that just might slow her down some."''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Officer Carlton Glover\\
Shift Report: Thursday, Mar 14, 1996\\
Finally located Det. Hardwicke, missing for three days. Hardwicke was found aimlessly wandering near Adams and Menlo, blindly jabbing an empty needle into her arm. Needle contained traces of heroin. On scene, she repeated over and over that she watched two people vanish; that they covered themselves in “dancing spiders,” and were gone when the spiders scattered. She interrupted her repetition only once, to order me to “Tell grandmother someone stole her music box.” (Det. Hardwicke's grandmothers are both long deceased.) We've left Hardwicke at Good Samaritan for psychiatric evaluation."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A small music box, well over 100 years old, containing a figurine of an ice-skater who turns to Swan Lake. The mechanism is old and worn, as well as coated with wisps of cobweb, yet continues to play perfectly."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Sorlag]]
--> ''"It had been whispered for centuries: that after the fall, a hatchling with a dire destiny would emerge from a scarred egg. The voice of the Haruspex called for silence the barren cavern as the tribe huddled near the blaze of the fire. Any emergence was cause for the tribe to stop and observe. But with an egg so marked, all eyes watched. The first tearing of the egg began slowly; yet even as a hatchling, this one emerged with a violence and speed that made even the old ones recoil, hissing into the night."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"The Haruspex began the chant, filled with sounds and phrases that, though seemingly gibberish, struck fear in all who heard. That chant, in a tongue forgotten by all but a few ancients, spoke of the Other Place, its awesome power and mind-searing horrors, and of the Sorg's fateful connection to it. And then the old Haruspex's voice rose to a roar as he slowly held aloft the still curled, glair-covered hatchling and pronounced its name. Sorlag. And all looked up to the hatchling, even now struggling to be free from the grasp that held it."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"The clan's minders knew the legend that foretold of this special one. So they raised and trained Sorlag with great caution. And soon her strength indeed became something to fear. But although each minder concealed their fears, the truth became obvious to the whole clan: Sorlag knew no fear or pity, and she never would. The day came when all that remained to teach her were the Sorg ways of hunting, raiding, and killing. Others learned this slowly. Not Sorlag. Her taste for blood, for meat, for destruction drove her faster than the minders would go."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"The Haruspex gave a command: Let Sorlag join a raid. But first, she must come to him—to learn secrets that, even at such an early age, should bring doubts and difficult questions. With the stone walls surrounding him, filled with the ancient carvings and the colors of quickly painted images, the Haruspex said, “Look,” pointing to it all. And did Sorlag give the ancient images even a cursory glance? No, said those who dared edge close enough to the chamber to bear witness. But the Haruspex extended a curled claw to her indifferent chin, to make Sorlag understand."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"The Sorg once ruled the world. Only five great clans existed, and they lived in sprawling cities. There was peace. But long after the Fall, the warmbloods rose to plunder our world! They had machines to dig and to think and to kill. They tried to banish us from our own lands. They tried to kill every Sorg, even smashing scores of our eggs before the hatchlings could draw their first breath. The Sorg retreated to the caves—these caves. And with one world gone, we made another. We would survive. We would fight. But then the Oruk created their own downfall."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"Sorlag stood up, hissing at the tale. She walked past the Haruspex and opened her mouth, tasting acrid air. Acid built in her throat, eager for a target, as she laid a claw on one image. A machine to kill Sorg. The Haruspex nodded. “Many, many cycles ago, Oruk machines learned the buried secret of the Other Place, with its blood, death, and horror. The machines passed the secret into the Oruk. The portal opened. In their madness some fled into it, no longer masters. They were like chunks of meat thrown to hungry beasts. This was the Oruks' Fall.”"''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"Sorlag left the cave. Those who had gathered outside backed away from her. Had the place and its story made her understand the Sorg ways? Had it made her even more brutal, more deadly? As they returned to the clan grounds, no one spoke—not even the Haruspex! Days later, when the clan grew hungry and the cycle demanded it was time to hunt the wandering, wild warmbloods and raid their camps, Sorlag took up weapons and strode to the front to lead. None questioned her right to be there. None questioned her seizing of leadership. None dared."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"And that hunt would create unending strife for Sorlag and for all Sorg, for when a warmblood band is found, only one Sorg clan may claim it. The harvesting, slaughter, and slaves are for that clan alone! Only this law keeps an uneasy peace between the many raiding clans. But that night, Sorlag and her raiders found a group of Oruk pinned against a sheer cliff as another Sorg warband closed in—from a distant clan Sorlag did not know. Her raiders began to turn away, but Sorlag stopped them. She spoke only one chilling word: “Ours.”"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"Then Sorg fought Sorg as the warmbloods cowered. Sorlag's bloodlust only grew with each kill. Suddenly, gunfire from above! Sorlag spun around to find her raiders dead, and the other clan's raiders fleeing. She whirled back. There atop the cliff was an Oruk woman in a feathered headdress, her gun's barrel still glowing red with heat. Sorlag leapt to the cliff and scaled it with her bare claws, but by the time she reached the top, the Hunter was gone. Sorlag had found her destiny. She would kill this Hunter ... even if it meant following her into the Other Place."''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"A clutch of feathers tied to shard of bone. The feathers were the only sign of Hunter that Sorlag found at the clifftop on the night of their first confrontation; they serve as a talisman to stoke her wrath."''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Strogg & Peeker]]
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''""''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Visor]]
--> ''"*CLASSIFIED* - Intercepted correspondence from GRU official “FLUKE,” real name REDACTED, to KGB official “TRAPDOOR,” real name [REDACTED] - 20 MAR 1990 - FLUKE: Three of our republics have elected ethnic nationalists. We project another three will do so imminently. Soviet control eroding faster than projections. We have fast-tracked Project Mountain King. [REDACTED] reports that Soldier Prime, a genetic hybrid of Spetsgruppa A elites and Black Dolphin prisoners, is now a viable embryo in vitro. Accelerated maturation procedures have begun. Design of cybernetic enhancements is nearly complete."''
-->-- '''Part 1'''
--> ''"12 AUG 1991 - TRAPDOOR: Prime's maturation complete. [REDACTED]'s telesthesia work in Leningrad was successful but will not be continued for cost reasons. (We will not be replacing the three institutionalized researchers.) Spetsnaz combat training now underway. Complications: (1) Intermittent explosive disorder persists. Casualties include seven handlers and four guard dogs. Have your geneticists address this in clone iterations. (2) Flesh is necrotizing at cybernetic contact sites but is not affecting performance. This is a side effect of the paranormal experiments and will not be present in clones, unfortunately."''
-->-- '''Part 2'''
--> ''"19 MAY 1992 - TRAPDOOR: Surviving paranormal researchers at St. Petersburg have been in covert contact with US scientist W. G[REDACTED] regarding a solution to the congenital sight impairment of the 20 clones of Iteration 9. He claims he can engineer full telesthesia in at least one subject, but he has three demands: all 20 clones delivered for experimentation, no oversight, and access to certain antiquities in Hermitage vaults. Funding has ceased since dissolution of Supreme Soviet; we have little choice. [REDACTED] being questioned about W. G.'s knowledge of the vaults."''
-->-- '''Part 3'''
--> ''"03 FEB 1993 - FLUKE: Received report of eleven deceased clones from W. G.'s research. Progress evident in the one corpse he agreed to return: a steel visor grafted onto the face. Removal reveals full enucleation and unknown runes cut into the flesh around the ocular orbits. No evidence of cyberneural interface, but we found a film of decayed blood between the metal and tissue. Testing has shown this to be from an indeterminate number of organisms, some human. Shipping remains to your St. Petersburg team for further investigation."''
-->-- '''Part 4'''
--> ''"11 OCT 1993 - TRAPDOOR: Do not request or accept any further material evidence from the American. Sabotage suspected. Multiple researchers report sleep disturbances and disembodied, unintelligible whispers after examination of the remains. [REDACTED] attempted to remove her own eyes. We will assume that Prime is the sole result of Project Mountain King going forward. Related: Advanced necrosis had no effect on Prime's deployment in Yeltsin siege of White House last week. Tank fire successfully distracted from his operation, in which several key Chechnyan loyalists were eliminated."''
-->-- '''Part 5'''
--> ''"21 JUL 1994 - FLUKE: Final report from W. G. processed. Explains little. Deceased clones total 17 but we cannot confirm the deaths or disposal. Unexpected good news: Three subjects survived and have returned for training. Initial evaluation of engineered sight surpasses our expectations: Subjects can “see” multiple targets through several layers of material, including concrete, steel, and carbon fiber. Neither movement nor heat required for successful tracking. We believe the mechanism is paranormal in nature, so we are sending one subject to your team for reverse engineering."''
-->-- '''Part 6'''
--> ''"25 JUL 1994 - TRAPDOOR: Armored vehicle arrived. In the cargo area were four dead guards, one dead and one living “visor” subject. When asked, the surviving clone said, “I killed them.” On entering the St. Petersburg facility, researchers [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] both fell into tonic-clonic seizures. Subject is too dangerous; I cannot risk further losses. We have scheduled euthanasia and will learn what we can from the corpse. Recommend you do the same. A document in braille was found in a body cavity of the slain clone. Investigating."''
-->-- '''Part 7'''
--> ''"06 MAR 1995 - FLUKE: We still await the outcome of your research. Perhaps the interagency cooperation has ended. If so, I have not been informed. Please contact me by whatever means possible. Ridiculous rumors are circulating about the project that I am eager to dispel. Regarding results: Prime and Visor were deployed in the Battle of Grozny to decisive effect. Civilian casualties deemed acceptable. The two subjects must be kept separate, however; close proximity seems to greatly aggravate the IED in both.
"''
-->-- '''Part 8'''
--> ''"13 JUN 1996 - FLUKE: Postmortem, Project Mountain King: Two cybernetically enhanced soldiers with full telesthesia produced. Seventeen successful combat operations. Casualties: 616 civilians and 54 military, including the KGB-funded team based at St. Petersburg State University. Status: Soldiers Prime and Visor AWOL after third Grozny deployment. Current whereabouts unknown. Contents of recovered braille document recovered from [TRAPDOOR] suggest they are en route to a covert military complex in Southwest USA. Goals unknown. We suspect operant conditioning by American collaborator. - End correspondence - *CLASSIFIED*"''
-->-- '''Part 9'''
--> ''"Instruction manual in Russian Braille. Translated text visible on screen should read as follows: “40 km Southeast by East of Cornudas, Texas. Password: 1MPUL5E9. Exalt your maker.”"''
-->-- '''Artifact'''
[[/folder]]
!!Costumes and Vanity accesories
!!In-game quotes
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