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The Flying Island of Lehpuhrta.
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"The Worlds War: Under Siege" - A Detailed Account of the Events Surrounding Lehpuhrta's Origins (part 6)
Here continues a detailed day-by-day summary of the roleplay event from which the flying island of Lehpuhrta emerged, back in 2008 - including directly quoted material, where appropriate...The Worlds War
The invasion stalls as the Symyano Shipmasters come together to select their new Fleetmaster - not all of them will survive the ritual combat.
Although the media in Mianertograditojikayhan reports a peaceful transition to Symyano rule, it is clear that rebellion is brewing. Kermorvan Steelworks completes a most unusual commission - a massive flawless metal ring, 1,000ft in diameter, that requires a large airship to carry it to its destination - a certain volcano on the isle of Bazqophan. At the volcano, two rebel scientists discuss their creation: the Splortal - a device that will create wormholes, hopefully bypassing the Symyano vessels' teleportation-dampening shields and opening up a whole new form of attack.
In Yerkinisjardul there are rumours of the abdication of Grand Duke Allandaros, and that the new government is in the hands of Symyano infiltrators. A resistance movement forms from elements of the Civil Defence Authority and the general population.
Rutzatilhan’s leaders respond to Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia’s earlier requests for greater unity and the two nations begin coordinating a mutual defence.
Coohudalss is declared the new Fleetmaster of the Symyano and commences preparations for a full scale surface invasion.
In Mianertograditojikayhan the final construction of the Splortal is underway, with the main superconductor hoop arriving at the volcano's caldera on the isle of Bazqophan. Discussion between the rebels reveals their bold plan for the weapon - they will detonate explosives around the volcano to trigger an eruption, channelling the fountain of magma up through the Splortal's mouth and open the exit within the Symyano vessels, flooding them with molten lava!
Good evening, viewers. The time is ten o'clock and I'm Trent Butterknife bringing you the news all across Sargvilosahnah, thanks to the Rhanukhan OrbiTech satellite communications network!
Tonight's main headlines:
It's War!: RSNN has received the first reports that the Symyano invaders have commenced their ground offensive. Observations from the Rhanukhani State Space Station indicate large numbers of small craft have been descending from the Symyano vessels over Nohvrakishnaplermta for the last twenty-four hours. Initial fears of some form of saturation bombing were calmed when no evidence of the expected massive destruction was reported, however, nations across Sargvilosahnah are now keeping a wary eye on the sky.
Take your filthy paws off me, you damn dirty ape!: Governor of Lehpuhrta, Constantine Malachite - the hero responsible for destroying the Symyano flagship, and, it turns out, saving His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman last week - isn't about to sit back and take a break! As you can see from this footage, shot earlier today in the shadow of Lehpuhrta, he's been ferrying up supplies and ferrying down civilians. Commentators are speculating that the billionaire business mogul is preparing for war with the aliens and transforming the island into some sort of flying fortress. In spite of her traumatic experience on the island during its maiden flight, Gillian Towelrail has opted to remain aloft and bring us exclusive reports from Rhanukhan's most unusual colony!
Just What Is He?: Staying on the subject of Constantine Malachite, mystery still surrounds the former Symyano fleetmaster's claims that the billionaire business mogul and provincial governor is, in fact, a Symyano infiltrator himself! If so, then his actions earlier this week must certainly have come as a surprise to his alleged employers! We join roving reporter, Sophie Futon, for the opinion of the man in the street.
And finally: The crash site of the remains of the former Symyano flagship out in the Shramortoghmuli Ocean has been thoroughly investigated by Rhanukhani naval vessels operating out of the port at Verang Kaglakh. Although several Symyano bodies were retrieved from the water, no survivors were found and very little in the way of floating wreckage.
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
On Lehpuhrta, Constantine and Lucy discuss Coohudalss' motives behind the ground invasion rather than a simple orbital bombardment, and also their concerns over their GBI-2 agents in Glerica - none of whom have been in contact for several days. Attempts to access the Glerican International Gateway computer mainly return a variety of garbled error messages, though among the most recent intact records there is evidence of a possible nuclear strike and a final "emergency splort" command being issued.
Aboard his flagship, Coohudalss observes the beginning of his forces' invasion of Nohvrakishnaplermta, and demands to be updated on anything that should be factored into his plans. In particular, having witnessed Lehpuhrta in action, he puts out the call to all infiltrators to be on the lookout for anything that might be an exotic new weapon. Two infiltrators in Mianertograditojikayhan, Gambilditt and Evratrelss (posing as Joe 'Shoulder' Perez, Minister of Demanding Respect, and his aide, Troop, respectively), decide to investigate suspicious activity on the island of Bazqophan.
Fragmentary reports out of Nohvrakishnaplermta imply that things aren't going well for the defenders, though it is suggested that John Dulles/Ojundasll has been assassinated and the government is back under human control.
On the Isle of Bazqophan in Mianertograditojikayhan, hidden in the hemp fields at the foot of the volcano, Symyano infiltrators, Gambilditt and Evratrelss (posing as Joe 'Shoulder' Perez, Minister of Demanding Respect, and his aide, Troop, respectively), observe the completion of the Splortal. They are uncertain of its purpose and take pictures for the fleet's technicians to assess. Sneaking closer, they also discover a cache of explosives at the crater's edge, which they defuse. Gambilditt then scrambles down to investigate a shack at the centre of the crater while Evratrelss heads for another building on the crater's rim that is connected to the main structure by many cables. Inside this building, three rebel scientists - Devo, Cake, and Winston - are preparing to power up the Splortal for the first time.
News reports indicate that rebellions are breaking out in several cities in Mianertograditojikayhan and, rather than quashing them, police forces are actually joining the insurgents! Publicly, Regent Clarrents Vishni appears to be more concerned with building a lavish new Summer Palace for himself than dealing with such matters. Behind the scenes he is in contact with the Symyano, begging their help in suppressing the uprising.
The Symyano vessel, Valleri - above Mianertograditojikayhan - receives Gambilditt's report on the Splortal, and the Shipmaster, Chohunakee, puzzles over the images. Engineers, Hamucuree and Enosmekyurii, are able to determine that they're looking at a wormhole generator and realise what the humans' plan must be. Forewarned, their solution is simple - once the wormhole opening appears on their ship, they will merely splort the arriving lava right back to the surface.
Below, Gambilditt has entered the shack and discovered a shaft leading down into the volcano. It contains more explosives, and the warm glow of magma far below rises to meet him.
Fleeing the ground invasion, a fleet of ships carrying civilian refugees departs Nohvrakishnaplermta, Rutzatilhan offers them asylum. The armed forces of Rutzatilhan and Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia mount a combined operation to unite with the remaining defenders in Nohvrakishnaplermta and take the fight to the Symyano.
The Glerican International Gateway computer is issuing intelligible responses to outsiders once again, but claims that the country is "in emergency lockdown" and that any attempts to cross the border or enter the airspace will be met with immediate lethal force. Curiously, it appears impossible to make contact with anybody within the country.
The Splortal is activated in Mianertograditojikayhan. A shimmering vortex appears within the confines of the superconductor ring and the wind picks up as it begins drawing in air and loose rubble. Gambilditt looks up in surprise as the roof is torn from the shack, but his surprise turns to horror as he, and the rest of the building, are suddenly pulled upwards also! In the control building on the crater rim, Evratrelss, hoping to shut the Splortal down, attacks the three rebel scientists. It doesn't go well for him - outnumbered, he's soon beaten unconscious.
Alarms sound aboard the Symyano vessel, Valleri, as the Splortal's exit point manifests in the engineering section. In a moment of capricious whimsy, Shipmaster Chohunakee directs his lieutenant to splort anything that emerges into the Palace of the Dedicated Worker in Rhanukhan Kaglakh. The engineers, Hamucuree and Enosmekyurii, wish to observe the Splortal's exit in person to gather more data. They are painfully met with the high speed arrival of a wrecked shack and an outraged Gambilditt. Nobody has time to react, however, as the computer - following Chohunakee's order - automatically surrounds everything with a splort field and sends the wreckage, along with the three entangled Symyano, onwards.
In Rhanukhan, His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman, Horatio J. Prism, and Foreign Minister, Zoe Washbasin, discuss the lack of communication with Glerica and their concerns for the 20,000 citizens splorted out of Rhanukhan Kaglakh. With no regular means of gaining access to the country, they decide that Lehpuhrta's first official mission has just presented itself. Mr Prism also receives an enigmatic phone call stating that a certain "cargo" has been secured - "Twelve intact, plus parts of several more - it should be enough for initial study." - he gives the order for work to commence immediately.
Aboard his flagship, Fleetmaster Coohudalss is raging about the bizarre weapons and strategies of the humans, and worse, just how effective they're proving to be against his own troops. His tirade is interrupted by the arrival of the first communion from their homeworld of Symyan'zu. He is concerned about the Highmaster's possible reaction to the news of Boohubalss’ death and that they haven't already conquered the planet.
On Lehpuhrta, Constantine and Lucy wonder whether their inability to contact the GBI-2s in Glerica is related to the general communications blackout in that nation. They're interrupted by the Simulated Intelligence Machine #1 warning of a new splort signal being detected between the Valleri and the Palace of the Dedicated Worker. They grow alarmed when it turns out that the signal is unlike any encountered before, and inexplicably immune to the Splort Disrupter. They are even more puzzled when it turns out that the signal didn't originate on the Valleri, but was merely redirected from Mianertograditojikayhan. Further speculation on the matter is prevented by a call from the Supreme Chairman.
A security guard in the Palace of the Dedicated Worker reports a sound "like the roof falling in", and a squad go to investigate.
Good evening, viewers. The time is ten o'clock and I'm Trent Butterknife bringing you the news all across Sargvilosahnah, thanks to the Rhanukhan OrbiTech satellite communications network!
Tonight's main headlines:
Gathering Storm: The Symyano invasion is spreading, with several nations now under direct assault and some governments clearly under the aliens' control. One government that may have thrown off the Symyano yoke, however, is Nohvrakishnaplermta. We've received unconfirmed reports that known infiltrator, John Dulles, who had recently claimed control of the nation, has been killed, although ongoing conflict in the country makes it impossible to get accurate information at the moment. The conflict is expected to escalate with the arrival of armed forces from Rutzatilhan and Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia.
Glerican Silence: RSNN can confirm what many viewers have been calling in to ask about. A complete communications blackout appears to be affecting the nation of Glerica. Speculation that this is part of the Symyano attack is rife, but right now authorities are in the dark.
And fi- wait... I'm being informed... yes... Apparently the island of Lehpuhrta is on the move again! Within the last few minutes the floating province gained altitude and set off in a north-westerly direction. Where's it going? What will it do when it gets there? Stay tuned for answers as soon as we have them!
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
Glerica isn't entirely silent, however - from a location known as "Secondary Splort Command, Glerican B-Base 4", Doctor Jane Rodgers broadcasts a message attempting to explain what she believes to have occurred during the chaotic events of the last few days. An unknown party - that had no trouble overwhelming the guards - raided the Splort Command facility simultaneous with their effort to neutralise the missile approaching Lehpuhrta. Jane believes that they were agents of the Symyano, regaining access to Splort Command's systems since, when the Glericans saved Lehpuhrta, they were shocked to find the nuclear missile suddenly delivered to their own location! General Worstill commanded the emergency splort procedure with seconds to spare, resulting in the Splort Command Crew now being ensconced in their current location on Ego Island, but the missile took out the main Glerican Gateway computer. The backup computer was brought online and is responsible for the current lockdown, utilizing the nation's many automated defences to enforce a curfew.
Approaching Glerica, on Lehpuhrta, Lucy and Constantine are puzzled. They recognise from Doctor Jane Rodgers' description that the raiding party at the Splort Command facility must have been their own missing GBI-2 operatives, but have no idea why their efforts to shut down the facility would have produced the outcome it did nor whether any survive in the country following the explosion.
At the volcano in Mianertograditojikayhan, the Splortal is still active, but the three scientists are unaware that Gambilditt and Evratrelss defused their explosives on the crater rim. When they fire the detonator, only the explosives in the central shaft go off, triggering far too weak an eruption to suit their original purpose. Despite their disappointment, the attempt does still produce an unexpected result. The lava flows ignite the surrounding hemp fields, resulting in a potent narcotic cloud being drawn up into the Splortal's mouth.
Aboard the Valleri, Shipmaster Chohunakee is alerted to the thick cloud suddenly pouring into the engineering deck. Attempts to splort it away merely result in localised decompression as the atmosphere is taken with it and the cloud simply keeps on coming. As more and more crewmembers succumb to its effects - reduced to giggling fools or slumping unconscious at their posts - he commands an immediate descent to the surface, reasoning that Mianertograditojikayhan is sufficiently under their control to be a safe landing place. His plan is to open the external airlocks and flush the intoxicating atmosphere out. By the time the ship completes its descent, however, everybody aboard has been incapacitated or is behaving most irrationally and the Valleri comes down hard - it will never fly again.
In the Palace of the Dedicated Worker in Rhanukhan Kaglakh, the security squad discovers the wreckage of a shack in an upstairs corridor. More concerning, however, is the trail of blood leading away from it...
Accidentally splorted into the Palace of the Dedicated Worker in Rhanukhan, Symyano infiltrator, Gambilditt (posing as Joe 'Shoulder' Perez, Mianertograditojikayhan's Minister of Demanding Respect), and engineers, Enosmekyurii and Hamucuree, attempt to avoid capture...
Sir! You need to see this!
What have you found, trooper?
Sir! The blood trail leads down these stairs towards th-
AWOOT - AWOOT - AWOOT
That's the fire alarm! Somebody's opened one of the fire doors. Get the captain on the radio!
Sir!
"Sergeant - what's going on up there?!"
Captain, Sir! We have evidence of intruders. Means of entry unascertained. Uncertain number, but at least one is badly injured. Somebody has also just opened an external fire door, tripping the alarm.
"I can hear it well enough over here, sergeant. The door involved is 12b/003 - isn't that near your current position?"
It's the one at the bottom of... oh! Captain! We need a perimeter establishing around the building - the intruders are making their getaway! You men - with me!
[Palace of the Dedicated Worker, Outer Compound]
You fool - anyone could have guessed that door was alarmed!
Shut up, Enosmekyurii! And do something about your friend's infernal moaning!
Hamucuree is injured, Gambilditt - you would be too, if somebody had hit you with a whole roof!
Stop looking at me like that - it's hardly like I threw it all into the Splortal! Those accursed creatures in Mianertograditojikayhan - what on Symyan'zu did they think they were doing?!
We assumed they were plotting to splort molten lava into the shi-
Yes! I know! I was there, trying to sabotage things! It was a rhetorical question!
Shipmaster Chohunakee must have ordered a countersplort to protect the ship - send the lava back...
This is not 'back'! I have no idea where we are, but it's not the site of the attack!
Then where-
Quiet! Get down!
...
They've gone - good. We need to get out of here - make contact with the nearest Symyano ground detachment.
But how?! You might be able to wander around freely in that ugly avatar - none of these creatures would be able to recognise you - but what about us? And Hamucuree still needs medical treatment!
Hnn... wait - that ground transport over there... I have an idea!
[Palace of the Dedicated Worker, Main Gates]
So, you reckon this is another drill?
Wouldn't be surprised - we've been getting 'em almost daily since those hairy shirkers invaded.
Hn - bet they don't know the meaning of an honest day's toil - coming here, in-
Shh! You hear that?
Sounds like... one of the trucks...
Yeah... and it's coming closer...
There! Look out! It's coming straight for-
Don't just gawp! Open fire!
VROOOOOOOOMMMMM!!! - BLAM! BLAM! - SKREEEEEEEEEECRASSSSHHHHH!!!
Do you think-
BOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!
Eesh! Toasty! Nobody could have survived that! C'mon let's go grab the Captain.
[Palace of the Dedicated Worker, Main Gates]
Now, Enosmekyurii! Whilst those two fools contact their superiors, we can simply walk through the gates.
Such a simple stratagem, Gambilditt... it truly shows how inferior these creatures are.
Indeed it does. I have witnessed the same diversion employed in their entertainment broadcasts, and yet still they fall for it! Now, we will find somewhere for you two to lie low and tomorrow I will go forth and discover where we are, and how easily we may contact our fellow Symyano!
The crew of the Valleri extract themselves from the wreck of their ship in northern Mianertograditojikayhan and contemplate how best to reunite with their comrades. The approach of a group of armed humans results in a stand-off. Shipmaster Chohunakee demands the humans' surrender. The human leader reveals that he is General Vershner - son of the nation's leader, who the Symyano killed on the first day of the invasion (at the behest of Clarrents Vishni - the new Regent - though none present are aware of this fact). Vershner demands that Chohunakee and his crew surrender to him. The Symyan shipmaster's arrogant response is cut short when he is suddenly, and without any warning, struck down and killed by a Fiend - one of Mianertograditojikayhan's enormous birds of prey! The Symyano gape in horror as the Fiend dismembers their leader. A moment later they break and flee in disarray as more Fiends descend upon them. Vershner and his comrades watch the scene with detached amusement.
Having observed Lehpuhrta's departure, Fleetmaster Coohudalss orders the ground offensive to commence against Rhanukhan.
Lehpuhrta has its own problems. Having arrived at the borders of Glerica, Constantine and Lucy discuss how best to proceed, considering that the nation's automated defences will certainly act against them. As Constantine begins to detail his plans for dealing with the situation he's interrupted by an alert - five thermonuclear missiles are headed their way! Fortunately this form of attack already has a countermeasure - the Simulated Intelligence Machine #1 increases power to the specific levitation generators pointed in the direction of the approaching missiles, holding them in place until their fuel is spent.
The combined expeditionary force of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia and Rutzatilhan finally gains a foothold in Nohvrakishnaplermta, seizing Port Alpha from the Symyano occupiers.
In Mianertograditojikayhan, General Vershner's scouts report that many of the scattered Valleri crew have fallen prey to the Fiends. The survivors have formed two groups - one is headed directly into the path of an approaching wolf pack and isn't expected to fare well. The other is retreating down the valley towards the nearest main road. Vershner orders his troops to follow this second group.
The Glerican team at B-Base 4 have observed Lehpuhrta's response to the initial salvo of five missiles, but express concern about the Gateway computer stepping up the automated defences.
Holding position at a safer distance, Lucy and Constantine initiate the next phase of their plan. Constantine has discovered that some of his old access codes for the Symyano communications network are still accepted - he broadcasts a false order to their ships over Glerica, informing them that the automated defences have been shut down and to descend and commence the ground invasion.
The Symyano sub-fleet attempting the descent towards Glerica runs into a variety of defensive measures, taking appalling levels of damage. Three FS41 Starhawks take off from Lehpuhrta, taking advantage of such a huge distraction to slip into the country unnoticed.
The combined expeditionary force of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia and Rutzatilhan departs Port Alpha, with the intent of taking Nohvrakishnaplermta's capital city of Englesburgh.
The combined expeditionary force of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia and Rutzatilhan reaches the edge of Nohvrakishnaplermta's capital city of Englesburgh, taking a strategically important bridge. The Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtian commander broadcasts an ultimatum to the Symyano in an attempt to reduce the number of potential civilian casualties.
Fleetmaster Coohudalss and his aide, Kyookumbarr, discuss various aspects of the invasion...
How goes the ground assault?
Less than excellent, exalted fleetmaster.
This is becoming tiresome, but present me with your report on how my forces are embarrassing me today...
Exalted one! The sub-fleetmaster in charge of the Rhanukhan operation, Toizaruss, requests more troops - there are an unusually large number of Chonmiklatt's enhanced soldiers fighting for that nation.
I expected as much. Send in two more ships. I want Rhanukhan firmly in our grasp before Chonmiklatt returns from whatever he is doing.
It shall be as you command, your exaltedness!
How fares the rest of the campaign?
The alliance between the nations of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia, Rutzatilhan, and Nohvrakishnaplermta is forcing our troops back in Nohvrakishnaplermta - we have even received an ultimatum from their leaders, demanding our withdrawal!
An ultimatum? From such inferior creatures? Ha! No doubt their forces are composed of more of Chonmiklatt's-
Actually, no, exalted one - intelligence indicates that none of these nations purchased Chonmiklatt's enhanced soldiers and there has been no evidence of his covert models either... it would appear that our troops are genuinely... ah... losing to regular... um... human... troops... um... e-e-exaltedness?
RRRRAAAAAGH!!!! What is wrong with my... my... HA! 'Soldiers' is far too good a word for them! Fine! We will respond to this pathetic ultimatum!!!
E-exalted one?
Order the sub-fleetmaster in charge of that operation to employ his vessel's primary weapon against the capital city of Nohvrakishnaplermta! An example shall be made!
Exalted fleetmaster! Our own troops on the surface-
Are clearly worthless! They can share the fate of the enemy and serve as an example to others - such failure will not be tolerated!
*Coohudalss' aide suddenly glances at the small device he always carries*
Exalted Fleetmaster! The vessels descending on Glerica are being decimated by that nation's automated defence system!
What- Glerica?! What vessels?!
The vessels under Sub-Fleetmaster Choohukless, your exaltedness - err... records show that you ordered them to commence the ground assau... um... you did not, did you?
Of course not, you imbecile! That defence network will pound them to scrap! The special agents we dispatched to disable it have not had time to complete their mission yet!
Then who-
Wait! Chonmiklatt was operating near Glerica - this has to be his doing! Search the logs - I want to know how he accessed our communions!
At once, exalted one!
And for the sake of the Highmaster, order Choohukless to withdraw!
On Lehpuhrta, Constantine and Lucy observe the surviving Symyano vessels retreat, and acknowledge that their three GBI-2 agents in Glerica will now be on their own. They hope that Agent Yellow and his team can take down the Gateway computer swiftly so that Lehpuhrta can return to Rhanukhan and aid in its defence.
In Rhanukhan Kaglakh, a man from Mianertograditojikayhan attempts to obtain medical supplies for his companion. His Mianertograditojikayhani credit card is rejected, but during the exchange he seems pleased to learn where he's located. He promptly knocks the merchant unconscious and flees with his goods.
Good evening viewers. The time is ten o'clock and I'm Trent Butterknife bringing you the news all across Sargvilosahnah, thanks to the Rhanukhan OrbiTech satellite communications network!
Tonight's main headlines:
Under Siege: Several of Rhanukhan's eastern provinces are under direct assault from the Symyano at present. Refugees have been flooding steadily westwards since the first ships descended four days ago. Although our brave armed forces have held their ground against the aliens in spite of heavy casualties, the provinces of Verang, Inukhanes, Bhanakha, Wehdawahan, Hesslia, Hedhathan, Khibsi, and Kanghari, among others, all report heavy fighting. Dwight Alabaster is in Kanghari tonight and brings us a live report later in the program.
Horror in Nohvrakishnaplermta: The campaign against the Symyano in Nohvrakishnaplermta - until recently a gleaming beacon of hope in this war against the Symyano - today became a symbol of terror! Evidently angered by their lack of success in the region, the aliens lashed out with their most powerful weapons. Viewers may recall this earlier footage of the weapon in use against Mianertograditojikayhan, shortly after the Symyano arrived. Now imagine the horror of not just one, but a hundred such bombardments... two hundred... that was the nightmare faced by the citizens of Englesburgh today! Reports are sketchy at the moment but it is certain that beneath the dark cloud observed by the crew of the Rhanukhani State Space Station that the great capital of Nohvrakishnaplermta lies in ruins tonight. His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman has already issued a statement condemning the cowardly actions of the aliens and promised to send whatever aid can be spared once Rhaukhan is free of Symyano aggressors.
And finally: Investigations are continuing into the mysterious events at the Palace of the Dedicated Worker in Rhanukhan Kaglakh earlier this week. Local law enforcement and military officials are still hunting for a number of intruders who evidently splorted into the building before fleeing into the city. Tests carried out on blood found at the site confirmed the presence of at least two individual Symyano, though there may be more. Citizens are warned not to approach the aliens and contact their nearest law enforcer if they are encountered. Sophie Futon brings us your opinions from the streets of Rhanukhan.
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
[Live Broadcast from Rhanukhani State News Network]
Helloooo and good evening, viewers! I'm roving reporter, Sophie Futon, here on the streets of Rhanukhan Kaglakh to get your opinions on today's big stories!
[Karen Shoebox - 52 - ammunition factory worker]
Just wait until Mr Malachite gets back - those furry monsters won't know what's hit them!
[No biotag: presumed foreign visitor - ?? - position unknown]
I don't have time for this, foolish hu- er... woman! I have to get these medical supplies to my friend! Out of my way!!!
[Gordon Ploughshare - 36 - insurance salesman]
I have family in Bhanakha! You have to help me get in touch with them - please!!!!
[Nigel Doorstop - 19 - internet entrepreneur]
I told you all it was aliens!! Why didn't anybody listen? eh?! Well, losers - I'm the one laughing now!
[Sarah Coathanger- 16 - soldier]
This is, like, sooooo awesome!!! I'm gonna be right there at the front with all those hunky soldiers and blasting those ugly furball aliens back where they came from! It's just like playing on my VBox 720!!!
Sophie Futon, Rhanukhani State News Network (Rhanukhan - 22:32, 02/05/08)
In Rhanukhan, Gambilditt returns to his compatriots, Enosmekyurii and Hamucuree, with the medical supplies and informs them that he has discovered their location and also that there are Symyano ground forces not too far away.
Officers of the combined expeditionary force of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia and Rutzatilhan convene to assess the devastating results of their ultimatum.
The general in charge of the combined expeditionary force of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia and Rutzatilhan contacts President Tom Foolery of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia to discuss events at Englesburgh. To their horror it comes to light that they may be more responsible for the destruction than they imagined. With the Symyano vessel's shield down in order to deploy its primary weapon, a nearby Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtian submarine sought to take advantage by launching a nuclear missile. Unfortunately, the vessel wasn't destroyed, merely damaged enough to come crashing down on the city below, causing the reported destruction. President Foolery does not look forward to informing the leader of Nohvrakishnaplermta of their findings.
It has been a week since three Lehpuhrtan GBI-2 operatives made it past the defences into Glerica...
This is Agent Yellow. I'm broadcasting this message - as I do every day - in the hope that you are receiving it, Commander Green. We've received no communication from yourself since we arrived seven days ago and can only assume that somebody is blocking the incoming signal. It's probably safe to assume they're also blocking any outgoing signals, but, just in case they aren't... well, here's my report.
We've been heading north-west since we set down, avoiding the major population centres. Strangely though, we've encountered no signs of the Glerican population out here... I'd have expected the occasional farmer or something - I can only assume people have retreated into the cities in the hope of being better protected against Symyano invaders. Curiously, the absence of people has only served to heighten the sensation we're all beginning to notice - the feeling that we're being wat-
Dave! Over here!
I've told you before, Red - only use codenames when we're broadcasting!
You were? Sorry! But you need to see this...
What is it?
We've found traces of a camp. Somebody went to a lot of trouble to hide it before they left, but the trail's still pretty fresh - they were probably here just last night... and they're heading the same direction we are!
Hmm... who else would be out here? The only thing in that direction is the Glericans' defence network hub.
Do you suppose Mr Ma- um... Commander Green sent another team in when we weren't able to get in touch?
Unlikely... you know how much of a distraction was orchestrated just so we could get down here - I'm sure we'd have noticed if something similar had been set off again. We'll carry on as planned, but keep your eyes and ears open - if we start to gain on our mystery campers, I want to know!
Another trio have their own mission...
Gambilditt, it has been a whole week, Hamucuree is recovered enough - when are we leaving?!
Enosmekyurii is right, Gambilditt! We have to get back before the Rhanukhanis uncover us! They are still looking, you know!
Of course I know! I'm the one out there in this city among them every day, just so you two can have food and other supplies! I've seen the news broadcasts. Our glorious troops hold the eastern provinces now.
They do? That is excellent news!
Indeed it is, Hamucuree. I believe the time is right for us to make our escape! I have already plotted our course up the Tanhallen river to the southern border of Kanghari province, where the closest of our comrades await. We have but to get out of the city and the rest of the route is mostly unoccupied, save for the last few refugees fleeing before our superior forces.
...and I trust that you have a plan to get us out of the city - we are hardly inconspicuous, Gambilditt!
It just so happens that I do, Enosmekyurii - you will soon discover that you're not so conspicuous as you believe. Tonight I shall acquire the appropriate... props... for our little subterfuge and in the morning we can depart!
That evening's headlines reveal the extent of the Symyano occupation of Rhanukhan...
Good evening viewers. The time is ten o'clock and I'm Trent Butterknife bringing you the news all across Sargvilosahnah, thanks to the Rhanukhan OrbiTech satellite communications network!
Tonight's main headlines:
Under Siege: RSNN can confirm that the provinces of Verang, Inukhanes, Bhanakha, Wehdawahan, Hesslia, Hedhathan, Khibsi, and Kanghari are effectively under Symyano control at present with neighbouring provinces already reporting Symyano troops advancing. No communication has passed into or out of the lost regions for over a day and the steady stream of refugees has all but dried up, leading to fears of a possible massacre or vast numbers of Rhanukhani prisoners in Symyano hands. The public are up in arms over this and an angry mob has formed in Lady Helena's Square, demanding to know how His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman will respond. Dwight Alabaster is on the border of Kanghari tonight and brings us a live report from the front later in the program.
Glerican Goings-on: Constantine Malachite and his remarkable base of operations are still holding position off the Glerican coast. RSNN has received confirmation from the Palace of the Dedicated Worker that he is indeed on a mission to retrieve the Rhanukhani citizens splorted, ostensibly to safety, by the Glericans during the incident that led to the destruction of the original Symyano flagship several weeks ago. Gillian Towelrail, on the flying island of Lehpuhrta reports.
And finally: Law enforcement officials refuse to give up the search for the Symyano infiltrators believed to be active somewhere in Rhanukhan Kaglakh and urge the public to be alert for any suspicious activity.
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
Though he won't yet tell the public, the Supreme Chairman, Horatio J. Prism, already has a secretive project underway...
*static*
Go ahead, this channel is secure.
Your Resplendence, we believe we have managed to isolate the appropriate genes but-
Then you can make me a weapon, yes?!
Theoretically, yes... but we've only had twelve samples to work with and our genomes are so similar - I can't guarantee-
I don't need your guarantees right now, Doctor Wallclock - I need something to send those apes packing! You've seen how much of Rhanukhan they're holding - I can't let that pass! Can you make me my weapon?!!
I... can't we?... *sigh* yes, Your Resplendence. It should only affect Symyano DNA, but-
But nothing - we'll just have to take that chance, Doctor. Keep testing to a minimum - I want something on the front line within a week!
A week???!!!
Get to work, Doctor.
*static*
In Rhanukhan, an inconspicuous van is making its way eastward, out of the capital city...
Gambilditt! This is not what we expected as an escape plan!
Hamucuree is right, Gambilditt! This is humiliating! Where are our clothes?
And why must we ride in these cramped cages whilst you have the whole control cabin of this land transport??!!!
Silence, you fools! The humans outside will hear you!
But?
But nothing, Hamucuree! I already explained how we were taking advantage of the resemblance of our species' natural appearance to the indigenous creature known as a "Chimpanzee". It is not uncommon to see such animals transported as you are now.
I still cannot believe there is a creature on this world that so closely resembles us and yet is not the dominant lifeform! Are you su-
Be quiet! That law enforcer approaches!
...
Good day sir - might I enquire as to your name and where you're taking these two monkeys?
But of course, officer - I am Gary Mantlepiece, a courier for the city's scientific establishments, and I am transferring these chimpanzees to the government laboratories in Tanhallen.
Tanhallen, you say? That's rather close to the fighting with those filthy invaders, wouldn't you agree?
Indeed it is, officer. I can't say too much, but the laboratories there are at the forefront of weapons development against the alien aggressors - these two animals are to be test subjects for a new chemical agent that will soon send those Symyano running home!
Ha ha! That's the sort of news we like to hear - carry on then, sir - don't let me hold you up!
Thank you, officer! Come, Hammy and Enny - we have an appointment to keep!
Meanwhile, in Glerica, Lehpuhrtan GBI-2 operatives, Agents Yellow (David Anvil), Red (Jennifer Footstool), and Indigo (Christopher Ladle) encounter something unexpected...
Dave! Listen! Do you hear that?
It sounds like a fight... somewhere ahead.
What do we do?
It's probably whoever was in that camp we found. We'll close in and observe first.
And if it is a fight?
Well now, Jenny - that all depends on who's doing the fighting!
The agents discover three Symyano operatives - Dublosevann, Jonnsteedd, and Eefanhuntt - in battle with one of the Glerican Defence Network's combat automata. They consider hanging back until the aliens have finished and moved on, but when Jonnsteedd is literally torn apart they decide that they may be about to lose some vital intelligence and charge in to assist. By the end of the battle the machine is a smoking wreck and Dublosevann is unconscious, having been used as a living projectile by Agent Yellow as part of the move that brought it down. The three Lehpuhrtan agents apprehend their Symyano opposites...
You're coming with me, monkey.
uuuuuurgh!
Red! How's Indigo?
He'll live, Yellow.
Good, get him on his feet!
You - other monkey!
What?! My name is Eefanhuntt, inferi-
Shut it! You're hopelessly outnumbered and your partner is both unconscious and my prisoner - you can come with us or I'll just have Red shoot you down where you stand - we need to be out of the area a.s.a.p!
Hn! Very well, human - I will join you for now!
The combined expeditionary force of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia and Rutzatilhan complete their search and rescue operation in the ruins of Englesburgh in Nohvrakishnaplermta, finding only 427 survivors. They receive orders to press ahead with the liberation of the country.
The Glerican Splort Command Team, operating from B-Base 4 on Ego Island and attempting to overcome the Gateway Computer's control of Glerica's defence network, inadvertently alert it to their location. Alarms sound as nuclear missiles launch from the mainland.
Good evening viewers. The time is ten o'clock and I'm Trent Butterknife bringing you the news all across Sargvilosahnah, thanks to the Rhanukhan OrbiTech satellite communications network!
Tonight's main headlines:
Ongoing Conflict: Although the provinces of Verang, Inukhanes, Bhanakha, Wehdawahan, Hesslia, Hedhathan, Khibsi, and Kanghari are under Symyano control at present, the attack appears to have ground to a halt as our heroic armed forces - heavily supported by GBI-1 troops - bravely hold the line in the face of fearsome alien assaults. Dwight Alabaster is on the border of Kanghari tonight and brings us a live report from the front later in the program.
Tanhallen Mystery Disappearance: Following yesterday's discovery of his abandoned van in western Kanghari, fears are growing for the safety of courier, Gary Mantlepiece. Mr Mantlepiece - about whom RSNN's investigative journalists have been unable to uncover much information - was last seen transporting two chimpanzees to an undisclosed laboratory in Tanhallen. The Rhanukhani National Security Agency has become involved in the incident as a result of speculation that the chimpanzees may, in fact, be the Symyano infiltrators known to be operating somewhere in the Rhanukhan Kaglakh area. Agents have been dispatched in order to ascertain the true facts behind this case and to apprehend any Symyano operatives before they return to their fellows currently occupying our eastern provinces.
And Finally: With their governor away on his flying island, dealing with the Glerican situation, it appears that the citizens of Currakhan - Constantine Malachite's other island province in the Eruhani Ocean - are getting a little agitated. RSNN has been receiving reports of civil unrest in the province - which has so far avoided Symyano invasion, perhaps due to its relative unimportance - for the last few days. Local law enforcement are maintaining control, but officials warn that large scale violence could erupt at any time.
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
In Rhanukhan, the Supreme Chairman, Horatio J. Prism receives the call he has been waiting for - Doctor Peter Wallclock has developed a nerve agent, tailored to Symyano DNA. It can be released as a gas cloud on the battlefield. The Doctor doesn't believe it will harm human soldiers, but expresses his concerns about it having barely been tested - the Supreme Chairman orders its immediate deployment regardless.
Meanwhile, on Lehpuhrta, Constantine Malachite is alerted to the missile launches in Glerica...
+++ATTENTION! MULTIPLE MISSILE LAUNCHES DETECTED!+++
What?! We can't possibly have tripped that damned defence network again! Computer, prepare to-
+++TRAJECTORIES PREDICTED - TARGET IS NOT LEHPUHRTA.+++
Not us? Then where?
+++MISSILES WILL STRIKE GLERICAN B-BASE 4 ON EGO ISLAND+++
B-Base 4? Why are they targeting their own facility? The mystery out here deepens... hmm... Computer - has there been any communication between B-Base 4 and mainland Glerica, or are they as cut off as the rest of us?
+++AFFIRMATIVE. MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE DEFENCE NETWORK HAVE BEEN MADE OVER THE LAST 72 HOURS - THE MOST RECENT JUST SECONDS BEFORE THE MISSILE LAUNCH.+++
That can't be a coincidence! You know what I think, computer? I think that Glerica doesn't have control over its own defences any more. Damn! What have I sent Agent Yellow into? Have we heard anything from him since his team landed?
+++NEGATIVE+++
Pah! I wish I knew what was going on down there! Well, we can still be an irritation to that network's plans... computer - it's time we tested that new anti-missile system!
[In orbit over Glerica]
+++RHANUKHAN ORBITECH COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE NH-44/12 RESPONDING+++
+++MALACHITE EVOLVING ENTERPRISES MASTER NETWORK PRIORITY OVERRIDE - ENGAGE COMBAT MODE - TARGETS TO FOLLOW+++
+++COMPLYING+++
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Exalted Fleetmaster! We believe that the humans are stepping up their actions!
Gah! What now?!
We have just detected several nuclear missile launches from the nation of Glerica, your exaltedness!
These primitive creatures are insane! I am sure they will destroy their own world just to deprive us of it! Where are these missiles targeted? We will ensure that the appropriate def-
E-e-exalted one! I beg your forgiveness! A new report has just come in!
More missiles?
N-no, your exaltedness - a vessel over Glerica has just detected an immense power surge from one of this world's communications satellites in the vicinity! The shipmaster speculates that it may be a disguised orbital weapon of some kind.
But... there are thousands of those satellites up here... order it destroyed - immediately!
At once, exalted one!
And I want every other similar satellite targeted as soon as possible - we can be sure that the one over Glerica is not unique!
[Live Broadcast from Rhanukhani State News Network]
This is Gillian Towelrail on the very edge of the flying island of Lehpuhrta! Billy! Are you getting all this? As you can see from the trails out there in the open skies, Glerica has launched a fleet of nuclear weapons at a presently undisclosed target, but I've had word from... a source... that we might be in for some fireworks any second now. Billy - keep that camera steady! It shouldn't be long now, viewers bef- WOW! Did you get that Billy?! Viewers - you've just witnessed something extraordinary right now! Brilliant beams of pure white light lancing down from on high... look at that glowing cloud out there! Amazing - just... fantastic! What?... Don't be stupid Billy - you can't get sunburn on your eyes!
Gillian Towelrail, Rhanukhani State News Network (Lehpuhrta - 23:03, 15/05/08)
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Tell that shipmaster to abort - now!
Yes, exalted one!
I want to know who is behind that satellite and why they are destroying missiles that could only have been aimed at us - have it brought in for study!
With the satellite seized by the Symyano, Constantine is forced to implement stealth mode on the rest of the network to prevent losing any more to the aliens. As such, there is nothing to prevent the Glerican Gateway's second missile salvo. Ego Island briefly becomes a nuclear inferno. Once it subsides there remains no trace of B-Base 4.
