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The Flying Island of Lehpuhrta.
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"The Worlds War: Special Operations" - A Detailed Account of the Events Surrounding Lehpuhrta's Origins (part 7)
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
Two weeks have passed since the nuclear strike on Ego Island. The Symyano ground offensive continues in Rhanukhan, but things haven't been going well for the invading aliens... or the defending humans, it would appear...
Good evening viewers! You join me, Dwight Alabaster, here on the front lines in Dariwhani where the full scale rout of the Symyano continues apace! Largely thanks to the new nerve toxin developed by Doctor Wallclock's team, the Symyano armed forces have suffered catastrophic losses on all fronts in Rhanukhan and have been falling back steadily eastwards towards-
"EVERYBODY DOWN!"
What's this? Viewers, there's some commotion at the northern end of-
"Get down, you idiot! You'll draw its attention!"
But?...
"FIRE AT WILL - IT'S ONE OF THE ALTERED!!!"
[signal lost]
Dwight Alabaster, Rhanukhani State News Network (Dariwhani - 20:57, 28/05/08)
What exactly are the Altered? It appears that both sides of the conflict have reason to fear them. Fleetmaster Coohudalss discusses the matter with his aide, Kyookumbarr...
Exalted Fleetmaster! We have received yet another request from the ground forces in Rhanukhan to withdraw back into orbit!
Grraah! That accursed country is becoming more trouble than it could possibly be worth! How were they able to develop a gas that slaughters my troops while their own can walk freely through it?!
Well, that did not go entirely their own way, exalted one - what about the effects on Chonmiklatt's enhanced soldiers?
Hah! That might be some comfort if those... monsters... were not tearing through our lines as well! Do these creatures not test their weapons first? Their losses must be appalling!
Indeed, your exaltedness!
And yet still they fight on. Hn! They saw what we did to that city... Englesburgh, was it?... and yet act as if they have no fear of it happening to themselves.
Ah yes, exaltedness... but then, we did receive that counter-threat from Chonmiklatt when we declared our intent to destroy Rhanukhan Kaglakh after the first deployment of that gas...
A curse on him! Why have we not dealt with those satellites of his yet?! Tell me!
Ehh... eheh... after we pulled that first one in, permitting the nuclear missile strike on the Gelrican's island - which we still have no explanation for - it appears that all the others engaged some kind of stealth mode - we have not been able to trace any of them since... um...
RAARGH! There were thousands of them! We must be surrounded by the things! You cannot possibly tell me we have not even found one of them! You have seen the power of their main weapons - they could annihilate this flee- wait! ...They could annihilate this fleet... if Chonmiklatt is so intent on protecting this world, why has he not used them?
E-e-exalted one?
Pah! I want answers and all you bring me is more questions! Complete your reports on our progress in the other nations and then begone from my sight!
Meanwhile, on the surface, another leader finds himself discussing the same topic with one of his own people...
*static*
Go ahead, this channel is secure.
Your Resplendence, please - you must stop using the gas!
Nonsense, Doctor Wallclock - we have the Symyano completely on the run!
But you've heard what it's doing to the GBI-1's! Those beasts are devastating our own troops as much as the invaders!
That is why I had all of the active GBI-1 units pulled back from the front lines, Doctor - the remaining Altered will be killed by us or the Symyano over time. You're fretting over nothing - you should be proud of your invention, Doctor - it's going to turn the tide of this war and earn you a suitably impressive award!
*static*
Surprisingly, Glerica's B-Base 4 wasn't destroyed during the nuclear strike on Ego Island two weeks prior...
Doctor Rodgers, you've been here for two whole weeks now and, even with all our additional facilities at your disposal, you can't tell me what's going on down there?
Professor Sideboard, thank you for dropping by! You'll be pleased to hear we can confirm that the problem appears to lie with the artificial personality that acts as the interface with the Glerican Gateway-
That damned computer forced us to expose our most powerful weapon to the Symyano! If Mr Malachite hadn't had the forethought to include a variety of stealth features, the OrbiTech satellite network would have been wiped out by now!
And we thanked you for the effort - even though it wasn't entirely necessary.
Indeed. We were more than a little surprised when your entire base splorted onto the island! That's quite an escape route to have planned.
Heh, yes. We set this up back when the Isle of Tantrum was still uninhabited - I really should have moved the escape destination to a different remote spot when the Rhanukhanis took over but, to be honest, I never expected to have to use the system.
Perhaps Doctor, but still, you're lucky that you chose to splort right as the nuclear missiles exploded - if our Splort Disrupter had been able to detect the signal amongst all that chaos it would never have let you arrive.
Yes, Mr Malachite always seems to be prepared for anything that's thrown at him... even alien technology he couldn't possibly know about in advance?...
What are you implying, Doctor?
Nothing at all - I'm sure that Boohubalss' broadcast about Mr Malachite was a pure fabrication, intended to cause disruption and nothing more.
It most certainly was - and it very nearly succeeded!
Yes, if we hadn't splorted that nuclear missile away from you-
Look, Doctor - we'll achieve nothing with this petty point-scoring! We have agents and Rhanukhani citizens on the ground in Glerica who we've been unable to contact and you telling us that your country's defence system has a mind of its own and is behaving in a thoroughly hostile manner that must be endangering your own countrymen also! We need to stop it - what have you got so far?...
In Rhanukhan, the Symyano ground invasion is not going at all well for the aliens...
Good evening viewers. The time is nine 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:
Final Purge: The Symyano occupation of eastern Rhanukhan is almost at an end. The invading alien forces have been pushed back at every turn and now cling desperately to the coastal province of Verang. His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman made a morale-boosting announcement from the Golden Balcony to cheering crowds earlier today, declaring his intent to wipe the Symyano stain from Rhanukhan by the weekend and praising the hardworking soldiers and weapons developers for their achievements. Dwight Alabaster is on the border of Verang tonight and brings us a live report from the front later in the program.
Gone but not Forgotten: It seems that the former Niahvogalese Federation is not quite as extinct as was believed. The recent spate of terrorist attacks and general civil unrest in the province of Currakhan have been attributed to an organisation calling itself the "Neue Nivogalese Volksarmee". The NNV released several videos onto the internet during the day claiming responsibility for the actions and demanding recognition of the island of Currakhan as an independent nation. His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman made a speech earlier this evening, denouncing the terrorists and comparing their projected fate to that of the invading Symyano. No members of the NNV have come forward to comment.
And finally: Authorities are dismissing reports of large, ferocious, yellow monsters evidently witnessed by civilians returning to the eastern provinces as "delusional hallucinations brought on by the stresses of the ongoing war". When presented with this footage, allegedly showing one of the creatures being pursued into dense woodland by an army patrol, a government spokesman suggested that our special effects designer should really be putting his skills to better use.
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
Meanwhile, in Glerica, a group of unlikely allies finally reach their goal...
And there it is, people... the Glerican Defence Hub... our objective!
At last! Perhaps if it had been where our intelligence said it was, Chris wouldn't be-
Pah! You are all less than worthless, inferior creatures! I do not mourn his pas-
Shut it, monkey! Agent Indigo was worth a hundred of you! If he hadn't bought us the time we needed to bring that last machine down intact we would never have been able to trace the controlling signal here! I don't like to think what would have been waiting for us at the fake Defence Hub - do you? The journey there was rough enough!
The human is correct, Dublosevann.
rrr - silence, Eefanhuntt! Both of them will soon go the way of their partner, permitting us to-
Land your invasion fleet here? I don't think so, monkey! Once that network is down, we're getting our citizens back and Commander Green will be - well, let's just say that there's no way any Symyano ships are getting down here.
Ha! Your commander destroys one of our vessels and you believe the war is won! The rest of this pitiful world is doubtless already under our complete control, inferior creature!
I doubt that very much, monkey. Oh, and I guess you hairy boys were cuddled up together in a cave somewhere when it happened, but we actually lured a fairly sizable fleet of your ships to their death over this very land - just as a distraction so we could get in. Something for you to think about while I plan our way into that complex.
*incoherent spluttering*
Rhanukhan may not be falling to a standard ground invasion, but another option has presented itself...
I bring news, Exalted Fleetmaster...
I know, I know... fine - prepare to withdraw the last troops from Rhanukhan, but keep ships over every major population centre - the instant we disable Chonmiklatt's satellites I want a complete bombardment of that nation! I do not care how many of our colonists are inconvenienced by the lack of good land when they finally arrive! The Highmaster can-
-GASP!-
nng - No, you are right - I am not so suicidal as to mock His Magnificence. But, that nation - this whole world! - brings out the very worst in me!
Perhaps we have a second opportunity to take Rhanukhan, exalted one...
We do? How?!
A small thing, mentioned in their news broadcasts today. Our biggest problem down there has been that accursed gas which, whilst harmless to the humans, kills our own troops wholesale-
Yes! I am well aware of why we are failing so badly!
I-indeed, your exaltedness! ah - w-what we need is an army immune to the gas, yes?
Of course, you fool! Do you consider me so dim-witted?
NO! No, exalted fleetmaster! P-please, I meant no offence!
Bah! Fine! Just tell me what it is that you are patently trying to build up to.
Exalted one, we could get humans to fight for us!
Are you insane??!!! Why would any of those inferior creatures possibly want to assist us?!
Your exaltedness - they would not know they were fighting for us! Here - this report - there is a faction within Rhanukhan calling itself the Neue Nivogalese Volksarmee - see?! We could employ infiltrators to supply this group with more advanced weapons...
...Go on...
I was thinking perhaps that agent, exaltedness - the one who rescued those two engineers from Rhanukhan a short while ago - he has had experience with the Rhanukhanis - he would be ideal!
Indeed he would... Gambilditt was his name - I recall awarding him the Amber Banana for the rescue and his efforts to destroy the Splortal in Mianertograditojikayhan... hn - did we ever find out what became of the crew of the Valleri? Never mind! Have Gambilditt sent to me for briefing!
Lehpuhrta's mission to Glerica reaches its dramatic conclusion...
Hello viewers. The time is one o'clock and I'm Trent Butterknife bringing you the news all across Sargvilosahnah, thanks to the Rhanukhan OrbiTech satellite communications network!
Today's main headlines:
The War Goes On: Although Rhanukhan is now free of invaders, many other nations are less fortunate. No news has come out of Nohvrakishnaplermta or Mianertograditojikayhan, amongst others, for several weeks and fears are growing for the citizens of those nations. His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman has promised to mobilise Rhanukhani forces in order to help liberate these regions and announced increased production of both GBI-1 super-soldiers and Doctor Peter Wallclock's deadly toxic gas in anticipation of the upcoming conflict. Science correspondent, Jonathan Spatula interviews Doctor Wallclock - recently awarded the Gold Spanner for his work developing the gas - at his laboratory later tonight.
Counting the Cost: With the Symyano forced out of Rhanukhan, the citizens and workers turn their thoughts to rebuilding their homes and lives. We join Sophie Futon on the streets of Rhanukhan Kaglakh for the opinions of everyday citizens.
And finally: Governor Constantine Malachite and his remarkable flying island of Lehpuhrta remain engaged in the ongoing operation in Glerica to retrieve Rhanukhani citizens splorted there during the early stages of the Symyano invasion. Gillian Towelrail, RSNN's correspondent on the island, brings us her latest reports, including the ever popular inside information from her secretive source - the elusive Simone!
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
[Glerican Defence Network Hub]
BLAFFFZZZZZZ!!!!!
This is hopeless, inferior creature!
VRRRR
Just keep shooting, monkey! With the machines focussing on us, Agent Yellow and your partner have the chance to sneak in from another angle.
BLAM! BLAM!
We have tried this -hk!- strategy three times since we arrived - it always fails!
VRRRVRRRRRR
Do you know how to -nn!- do anything other than complain?!
BLAFFFZZZZZZ!!!!!
Yes - I can shoot!
[Glerican Secondary Splort Command, Lehpuhrta]
Professor Sideboard! We did it - we're in!
"In", Doctor Rodgers - in where?
The Gateway! I've been using the Simulated Intelligence Machine #1 to try and bypass the controlling artificial personality so we ca-
Enough babbling! Mr Malachite must be informed immediately!
[Constantine Malachite's command centre, Lehpuhrta]
Thank you, Lucy - and pass my congratulations on to the good Doctor! Computer!
+++AT YOUR COMMAND, MR MALACHITE+++
I want access to the Glerican Defence Network - now!
+++COMPLYING... WELCOME TO THE GLERICAN GATEWAY, NOW A SUBSIDIARY OF MALACHITE EVOLVING ENTERPRISES+++
We can start by shutting down the communications block - I want to know what's been happening these last few weeks!
[Glerican Defence Network Hub]
"crrzzztt!-ou copy, Agent Yellow? This is Commander Green!"
What the-? We have communications, people! Sir - it's a pleasure to hear your voice!
BLAM!
"Good to hear yours too, Yellow. What's your status?"
VRRRRRRR
FWOOOOOOSH! BOOOOMMM!!!
We're -ugh!- directly outside the Defence Hub compound right now, sir... but it's proving impossible to get past the machines guarding the place - they've dogged us every step of the way.
"Well, I believe that's one thing I can save you from worrying about."
Sir?
VRRRRRRrrrrrr...
Sir! The machines have all shut down! How-?
"We currently have control of the Gateway and have disabled the Glerican Defence Network to allow us to-"
Disabled? Now is our chance! *bleepbloopblorp* This is Dublosevann to any Symyano vessel in orbit! The Glerican Defence Network is down - repeat dow-
NO! Jenny! Take him out!
Sir!
BLAM!
DUBLOSEVANN!! Curse you, human!
BLAFFFZZZZZZ!!!!!
AIEEE!!!
JENNY!
BLAM! BLAM! BLAM!
"Yellow! What is it?! What's going on down there???!!!"
Jenny! Please be alive!
"Yellow! YELLOW!! Dammit, Dave - answer me!"
hnn! Sir! It was the Symyano. We've been forced to work together with them - it was the only way to survive.
"Symyano?!"
Yes, sir - I think one of them may have just got a message through to the fleet...
[Glerican Secondary Splort Command, Lehpuhrta]
Doctor! The defences are down! Is the splort core ready?
It is, Professor - we've already located the Rhanukhani civilians for you.
Excellent. Computer! Draw power from the main reactors - I want to splort everybody back to Rhanukhan in the shortest time possible!
+++ATTENTION! USING SPLORT CORE AT SUCH A HIGH SETTING WILL DRASTICALLY REDUCE POWER IN THE LEVITATION GENERATORS.+++
But only for the duration of the splort operation, computer - it's hardly like when Mr Malachite destroyed the Symyano flagship - permit a controlled descent while the splort core is active.
+++COMPLYING+++
[Constantine Malachite's command centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! SPLORT CORE ONLINE! LEVITATION GENERATORS REDUCED TO 36.89% OUTPUT. COMMENCING CONTROLLED DESCENT+++
Thank you, computer. Get our citizens out of there so we can return to normal functionality a.s.a.p.
+++COMPLYING+++
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Exalted Fleetmaster! A message has been received!
You seem excited, for a change - what is this message?
It was incomplete, your exaltedness, but it came from our agent, Dublosevann, in Glerica - he informs us that the Defence Network has been shut down!
At last! Order all vessels over Glerica to descend and commence ground operations immediately!
[Constantine Malachite's command centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! SYMYANO SUBFLEET OVER GLERICA IS COMMENCING DESCENT+++
Damn! That agent's message must have got through! hnn! I really didn't want to have to do this... Computer! Open communion with Coohudalss' ship!
+++COMPLYING+++
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Chonmiklatt! I am most surprised, though not delighted, to see you again.
"The feeling is entirely mutual, Coohudalss - did you forget our last communion? Withdraw the subfleet from Glerica or I will be forced to annihilate it."
Ah yes, Chonmiklatt, your deadly satellite network. I begin to suspect that no such thing exists and you have been selling me an empty gohruba skin.
"I can assure you my threat was quite sincere, Coohudalss."
No - if you had this devastating satellite network surrounding my vessels you would have used it by now. I believe the only one you had is the one sitting in my laboratories even now. The rest were simply part of a clever bluff.
"Then you leave me no choice, Coohudalss - I really didn't want to be responsible for the deaths of so many of my fellow Symyano."
You stopped being Symyano when you sided with the inferior inhabitants of this world, Chonmiklatt! End communion!
[Glerican Defence Network Hub]
"Agent Yellow, come in! This is Commander Green!"
Sir! Agent Red needs urgent medical attention - you have to-
"Listen, Yellow! The Symyano are descending on Glerica. We've nearly finished splorting our people out, but we're going to have to abort your other mission."
But, Sir!
"But nothing - the GBI-2 mystery will have to wait. I've sent a remote control command to your Starhawks - they'll arrive shortly to pick the three of you up."
Three? But, there's only me and Agent Red left.
"The computer scan shows three GBI-2s at your location - are you saying Agent Indigo isn't with you?"
He... he was killed in action over a week ago, sir. If it wasn't for- wait! You! Who are you?!
"Yellow? Who is it?!"
Daaaave... Daaaave...
How do you-
Daave, don't fight me, Dave... come... you are one of us...
"Dave! Who's there?"
I... I... no! I have to get Jenny back!
You must come... we can care for you both...
Stay back!
Come with me...
BLAM!
[Constantine Malachite's command centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! SYMYANO SUBFLEET BEGINNING TO REACH MINIMUM SAFE HEIGHT FOR SATELLITE ATTACK+++
Dave! Talk to me! Gah! Computer! Fire at will - take them out as fast as possible before they get low enough to rain wreckage down on Glerica.
+++WITH THE SPLORT OPERATION STILL ACTIVE, RESOURCES WILL HAVE TO BE ALLOCATED FROM THE EFFORT TO MAINTAIN DOMINANCE OVER THE GLERICAN GATEWAY ARTIFICIAL PERSONALITY+++
Meaning we could lose the Gateway again?
+++AFFIRMATIVE+++
*sigh* Fine - do it!
+++COMPLYING+++
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Exalted Fleetmaster! We are receiving reports of multiple massive power surges in the space surrounding the Glerican subfleet!
What?! NO! He had to be bluffing!!!
ah... th-the lead vessel has just disappeared from our sensors, e-e-exalted one...
GRAAAAGH! Order the subfleet to accelerate the descent - minimum safety - he would not dare fire on vessels within the atmosphere - they would cause devastation on impact!
It will be as you say, your exaltedness!
[Constantine Malachite's command centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! FOURTEEN SYMYANO VESSELS HAVE ENTERED THE ATMOSPHERE+++
Did you destroy the rest?
+++AFFIRMATIVE+++
We can't shoot those fourteen - it would be like flying in and bombing Glerica ourselves...
+++ATTENTION! STARHAWK FIGHTERS HAVE REACHED DESTINATION+++
Is Agent Yellow boarding?
+++UNABLE TO ASCERTAIN+++
nn! There's far too many unknowns here!
+++STARHAWK #1 LAUNCHED. FIGHTER AUTOPILOT IS PROGRAMMED WITH COMMAND TO RETURN DIRECTLY TO LEHPUHRTA MEDICAL FACILITY+++
That must be Jenny - Dave would have looked out for her first!
+++STARHAWK #2 LAUNCHED. MANUAL CONTROL. FIGHTER IS FOLLOWING COURSE OF STARHAWK #1+++
Yes! Come home, Dave! Computer - take control of the thir-
+++ATTENTION! GLERICAN GATEWAY RESOURCE ALLOCATION EXHAUSTED. ESTIMATE IMMEDIATE LOSS OF CONTROL OVER GLERICAN DEFENCE NETWORK!+++
Not now! Have we splorted all the Rhanukhani citizens out?
+++AFFIRMATIVE. PROFESSOR SIDEBOARD IS IN THE PROCESS OF RESTORING POWER TO LEVITATION GENERATORS+++
Good - we'll probably need to beat a hasty retreat when that computer gets its weapons back online!
+++STARHAWK #3 LAUNCHED. MANUAL CONTROL. FIGHTER IS FOLLOWING COURSE OF STARHAWK #2+++
Wait! What?
[Starhawk #2]
"Agent Yellow! Do you copy - this is Commander Green!"
Loud and clear, sir! I hope you have the facility ready for Jenny - I don't know what the Symyano use for ammo, but it makes a real mess of-
"No time, Dave! Somebody has taken the third Starhawk and is in pursuit!"
What?! I killed that shirker! Shot her right between the eyes! uh... sir!
"They're not responding to radio contact... and they're closing on your position - just who was that back at the site, Dave?"
I... don't know...
"Think! Could they have been one of our missing GBI-2s?"
It... would explain how she was able to get into that fighter - speaking of which!
FWOOOSH!
Looks like she's within missile range! I'll have to call you back! Yellow out!
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
E-e-exalted Fleetmaster-
How many made it down?
um - we have counted fourteen vessels still descending, exalted one - Chonmiklatt's satellites appear to have powered down.
Four...teen?
A-a-and there are signs that the Glerican d-d-defence n-network might be restoring itself... um... e-exaltedness...
[Constantine Malachite's command centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! STARHAWK DOWN!+++
Damn! Which one?
+++UNABLE TO ASCERTAIN. BOTH FIGHTERS SUFFERED DAMAGE, DISRUPTING THE TRACKING SIGNAL.+++
Gah! Fine - let Jenny's fighter land at the medical facility and have a crew on standby, and track the other fighter - I want an armed GBI squad all over it the second it touches down!
+++COMPLYING+++
Glerican Gateway
Hi there! Sorry for the earlier disruption in service! You'll be pleased to hear that full functionality will be restored shortly and the usual high standard of elimination will be available to all visitors! I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome the descending Symyano Fleet with a complimentary barrage from our missile silos! Naturally, we're sure you'll also wish to sample the many other delights offered by the Glerican Defence Network, so as soon as they're online, I'll be happy to demonstrate!
And, Rhanukhani visitors, don't think I've forgotten you either! I can see you leaving right now! Thank you for clearing up your untidy citizens. I'd like to reward such conscientious behaviour with ERROR - oh dear, there appears to be a problem withERRORERRORERROR
REBOOTING
[Glerican Secondary Splort Command, Lehpuhrta]
What did you do to it, Doctor?
Not enough, I'm afraid, Professor Sideboard - it'll be back online in a few minutes - hopefully long enough for the next stage to kick in...
Which is?...
[Constantine Malachite's command centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! BOTH STARHAWKS HAVE LANDED AT THE MEDICAL FACILITY+++
Are they surrounded?
+++AFFIRMATIVE. AGENT RED HAS BEEN RETRIEVED BY THE MEDICAL STAFF+++
And the other pilot? Who is it?
+++GBI SECURITY COMMANDER CONFIRMS PILOT IDENTITY AS GBI-2 DAVID ANVIL - AGENT YELLOW+++
Thank the Supreme Chairman! Have him sent up he-
+++ATTENTION! SPLORT CORE ACTIVATED!+++
What?! Put me through to the-
+++ATTENTION! SPLORT FIELD HAS EXTENDED ACROSS ENTIRE ISLAND+++
Lucy? Doctor Rodgers?!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING????!!!!!
Constantine may have had concerns about destroying Symyano vessels within the atmosphere, but it appears that the Glerican Gateway Computer has no such qualms - taking out the fourteen remaining targets with precision laser strikes and nuclear missiles from its ground-based batteries. The extensive damage caused by the wreckage raining down does nothing to quell its constantly cheery mood. It's unlikely that people on the ground are quite so happy.
Meanwhile, half a world away, above the Shramortoghmuli Ocean...
+++ATTENTION - SPLORT PROCESS COMPLETE - SPLORT CORE OFFLINE. WARNING! LEVITATION GENERATORS OFFLINE! GRAVITY FIELD OFFLINE! ISLAND SURFACE ATMOSPHERE LOSS CRITICAL! RECOMMEND DESCENT TO LOWER ALTITUDE! DESCENT RATE CRITICAL! IMPACT WITH PLANETARY SURFACE IN-
Not this again! LUCY! We need the levitation generators - now!
"Ah - already working on it, Constantine!"
Doctor Rodgers! What were you playing at?! You knew that using the splort core for a single large mass like Lehpuhrta would divert power from everything else!
"I'm sorry, Mr Malachite, but we needed to be out of the Gateway's reach as fast as possible - it would have shot your precious Lehpuhrta out of the sky once it regained full access to the weapons systems! It had already started throwing missiles at the incoming Symyano when we left!!"
hn! Fine! I'll let this one slide - if we survive!
"What?! There's gratitude for y-"
+++ATTENTION! LEVITATION GENERATORS ONLINE, FUNCTIONING AT 100% CAPACITY. ATTEMPTING TO STABILIZE ISLAND. GRAVITY FIELD RESTORED, ATMOSPHERE CURRENTLY EQUALIZED WITH EXTERNAL PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE - RECOMMEND DESCENT TO LOWER ALTITUDE! CURRENT DESCENT SPEED: 40 KNOTS AND SLOWING, ALTITUDE: 9KM. DO YOU WISH MANUAL CONTROL?+++
Excellent work, Lucy! Thank you!
"You're always welcome, Constantine!"
Now, let's find out where we are. Doctor, did you program a specific location before we splorted?
"I did - we should be on the opposite side of the planet now."
Really? You like to make sure we're out of range, don't you? Well, let's see exactly where we are. Computer! I want a map with our current location on it!
Hello viewers. The time is nine 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:
Safely Home: Biotag scanning is complete and RSNN is happy to confirm that all the Rhanukhani citizens splorted to Glerica during the early stages of the Symyano invasion have been safely returned. As you can see from this footage shot in the fields just outside Rhanukhan Kaglakh two days ago, the sudden appearance of increasing numbers of surprised and bewildered citizens caused quite a stir, but fortunately, emergency services and the military were swift to respond to the situation and transport the returnees to their homes or medical centres as appropriate. His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman was quick to praise their calm and professional handling of the incident in a speech made earlier today.
Drama in the Sky: Gillian Towelrail - RSNN's correspondent on the island of Lehpuhrta - has just reported in, informing us that, following the daring recovery mission to Glerica, Governor Constantine Malachite's remarkable base of operations was forced to utilize the Glerican's own splort core to withdraw, demonstrating the impressive power of the technology. According to Gillian's source, the mysterious Simone - believed to be a high ranking member of Governor Malachite's administration - the island is currently holding position over the Shramortoghmuli Ocean to the east of Ahlituania and will likely be returning to Rhanukhan shortly.
And finally: Events in Currakhan province are hotting up as it appears the NNV - that's the Neue Nivogalese Volksarmee, a terrorist organisation that aims to declare the province an independent nation - has gained access to a large quantity of advanced weaponry. Authorities are currently unable to determine who has started supplying the terrorists but several members of the Rhanukhani National Security Agency have been dispatched to the area to crack the case.
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
It has been nearly seven weeks since their vessel crashed, but in Mianertograditojikayhan the surviving crew of the Valleri have yet to reunite with their Symyano comrades...
.........
"Damn it!" Platoonmaster Ryturnclydd threw his communicator on the ground.
"What now, sir?" asked Trooper Dayvejhonss.
"Form up and count off. I want to know who we still have left."
The troops formed a rough line and called out their name and number.
"Only fifty-eight?" sighed the Platoonmaster, "there were three hundred and twenty on-board when we set off! Where is Troopmaster Bolloo? I sent him out with a squad to patrol the perimeter last night."
"Never returned, sir."
"None of them?"
"No, sir."
"We cannot wait here any longer. Let us move out. TROOPS, MOVE OUT. DOUBLE FILE!"
"Where are we heading, sir?"
"We will follow the road east, and commandeer the first vehicle we see."
"Sir."
"Oh, and by the way, Dayvejhonss. You are now a Troopmaster."
"Yes, sir."
As they began to head off, a sudden disturbance came from the forest behind them. The troops stared wide-eyed, ready to run for their lives - expecting another attack from the vicious creatures that seemed to lurk everywhere in this hostile land. Troopmaster Dayvejhonss held his ground, steadied his nerve, and raised his rifle.
The sound came again - nearer this time - and suddenly a Symyano soldier burst from the tree cover, sprinting towards them. He glanced behind him at some unseen pursuer, lost his balance, and tumbled down the bank leading down to the road. A few shots rang out from the waiting troops, but they were well off target.
"HOLD FIRE!", shouted Platoonmaster Ryturnclydd. He ran over to the panicking soldier.
"Name and rank, soldier!"
"RUUUUUUNNNN!!!!"
The Platoonmaster slapped him hard across the face.
"NAME AND RANK, SOLDIER!"
"T-t-troopmaster Geralduu, s-s-sir."
"What happened back there, Troopmaster? Who is your CO?"
"C-companymaster Saiyukii, sir. We have to run, sir. Creatures everywhere, sir. Trapped us, sir. Ripped us apart, sir. Teeth, sir. Everyone, sir. RUUUUUN!!!"
At their space launch centre on the islands of Tergimra, the military of Pemerktichotkhi commence work on an enigmatic new project titled, "The Protector".
Meanwhile, following weeks of silence from the combined expeditionary force of Gamiatianekan Idiokrahtia and Rutzatilhan in Nohvrakishnaplermta, a curious message is suddenly broadcast out of Rutzatilhan...
However, the lads have said that they do like that Port Alpha and would like to keep it.
Thanks.
*Message Over*
Hello viewers. The time is nine thirty and I'm Trent Butterknife bringing you the news all across Sargvilosahnah, thanks to the Rhanukhan OrbiTech satellite communications network!
Tonight's main headlines:
Triumphant Return: Provincial Governor, Constantine Malachite, and his troops on the flying island of Lehpuhrta returned to a hero's welcome yesterday, following their daring mission to retrieve the Rhanukhani citizens and workers splorted to Glerica during the early stages of the Symyano invasion.
His Resplendence, the Supreme Chairman awarded Mr Malachite the Golden Spanner for his efforts in a special ceremony this morning. Also receiving awards were Special Agents, David Anvil and Jennifer Footstool - both given the Bronze Hardhat, whilst Special Agent, Christopher Ladle - who died during the operation - was posthumously awarded the Purple Hammer.
But awards weren't only given to Rhanukhani personnel. Midway through the operation, the Glerican's own Splort Command Team were forced to relocate their entire base, due to enemy action, and joined forces with the Lehpuhrtan operatives! For their part in retrieving our citizens, His Resplendence issued the surviving members of the GSCT - Doctor Jane Rodgers and Captain Kelli Irving - with the Grand Order of the Artisan's Trowel - the highest honour awarded to foreign citizens.
Gillian Towelrail was present at the ceremony and brings us an exclusive interview with Governor Malachite later in the program.
Economic Boom!: Financial correspondent, Wendy Collander, brings us a special report on the rapidly improving Rhanukhani economy, following the removal of the Symyano invaders from our great nation. Areas of particular improvement have naturally been arms manufacture - as both our own armed forces and those of neighbouring nations seek to push the Symyano completely off the planet - and also the construction industry, as the eastern provinces set about rebuilding.
Lights in the Sky: The curious green lights filling the night sky over the sea to the north continue. Observations from the Rhanukhani State Space Station confirm that the source is the Pemerktichotkhi Launch Site in the Tergimra Archipelago, but the nation - in spite of being a fellow member of the Khigastujami Alliance - has thus far apparently refused any requests for information about their activities on the islands.
And finally: Following a number of suspicious broadcasts ostensibly from the Rutzatilhan Ministry of Defence, it is believed that the nation has become the latest to fall wholly to the Symyano. We'll bring you more on this story as information becomes available.
All the news, sport and tomorrow's weather coming right after this break...
Meanwhile, high above...
Exalted Fleetmaster! Today's reports!
Transfer them to my quarters - I will review them in private later.
It shall be as you say, exalted one!
Tell me - have we managed to discover what is occurring on those islands yet?
Alas no, your exaltedness - it is indeed a mystery.
Pah! I just know it will be another weapon for use against us! Everything these creatures do is designed to cause me aggravation! We should own this planet by now and instead we occupy less than half the individual nations and even most of those continue to put up resistance to some level!
I-indeed, exalted f-fleetmaster...
Still, it should not be long now before we receive a reply to my last request to his magnificence, the Highmaster!
Long may he reign over us!
Yes... long indeed...
The islands of the Tergimra Archipelago aren't the only ones upon which suspicious activity is taking place...
Good news, Herr Käseraspel - I bring your latest shipment of weapons for the campaign!
So you do, Herr Mantlepiece, so you do... I have to tell you that my comrades and I are grateful, but we are beginning to grow a little suspicious of your motives.
What do you mean?! I have told you that I represent a group who sympathize with your plight!
Jawohl - but you have yet to tell us who this group is or why they would choose to help us... what's in it for you, Herr Mantlepiece?!
I can always take these weapons back, Herr Käseraspel - I'm sure there are plenty of other groups of freedom fighters who could make use of them. Who knows? Perhaps some of them have their eyes on Currakhan!
Nein! We will take the weapons and continue to pressure the Rhanukhanis - they will see sense and give in to our demands before long!
I am sure they will, Herr Käseraspel.
The mysterious activity at the Pemerktichotkhi Launch Site in the Tergimra Archipelago doesn't remain mysterious for long...
Pemerktichotkhi has constructed the Protector, a banana-powered flying saucer designed to protect the territories of Pemerktichotkhi, which are dotted throughout Sargvilosahnah. Able to vaporise tanks, ships, and anti-development protesters with ease, it serves to protect the interests of both Pemerktichotkhi and the Khigastujami Alliance. Protector is also on call to provide the most up-to-date light show on Sargvilosahnah, and will be a regular appearance at the Pemerktichotkhi Annual State Trance Festival. Arrangements for lighting in other nations can be discussed.
The strain of keeping control of his country on behalf of the Symyano appears to be getting to the president of Mianertograditojikayhan...
Vishni Condemns Pemerktichotkhi
President Vishni condemned Pemerktichotkhi yesterday for its "rampant deflowering of Xenikhan", in a speech to the National Union of Hairdressers. The president was attending the annual hairdressers' conference in Apricotingley and used the occasion to launch a stinging, but puzzling, attack on the environmental policies of Pemerktichotkhi. Attendees of the conference described the speech as "confusing" and "not in any way related to hairdressing".
A government spokesman later called a press conference and explained that there had been some mistranslation from the original Symyano text and that the president was actually condemning the "deforestation of the former-Xenikhan territory".
Former education minister, Vints Maikover - an outspoken critic of Vishni - announced that this was, "yet further proof that the president will read out any old dross that's placed in front of him", and derided the government for, "wasting time on minor issues when the whole of Sargvilosahnah is under threat".
President Vishni responded to the criticism by reading a prepared statement, confirming his intention to purchase "One bottle of milk, two loaves of bread, two packets of pear-drops, four bottles of wine, and a copy of The Mob". A government spokesman later explained that the president had accidentally read out his shopping list, and that the actual statement should have said that the president, "refutes any suggestion that he just reads out anything that is placed in front of him."
The Conformist tried to contact Mr Maikover for a statement this morning, but he was unavailable for comment. His wife, however, told us the following: "Vints didn't come home last night. That's not like him at all. I'm very worried."
In other news, Kermorvan Profitable Holdings appears to be suffering no ill-effects from the ongoing war...
KWIP Announces Record Profits
Kermorvan Wooden Imported Products announced record profits today in a statement to the press. Analysts speculated that the massive drop in the wholesale price of wood has reduced costs for all wood-based production, but the company today explained that the cost of raw materials is only a minor factor, and that dynamic management processes have been the primary driving force in maximising profits. The company's board meets tomorrow to vote on a R2,000,000 bonus for the board.
Two unrelated conversations set in motion another chain of events that will ultimately be of great importance to Lehpuhrta...
*RIIIIIIING! RIIIIIIING!*
Hi - "Inukhanes" Phone speaking!
"What the...? "Inukhanes"? I called the burrowing octopus that! Junior?"
Uh - Dad! *cough* ah - Great to hear from you!
"Junior, I want you to come to Hesslia immediately."
What? Now? Is this to do with Professor Teapot?
"Yes! Those damned Symyano! I told him to get out of town as soon as they started landing but he insisted on staying with the project..."
Oh Dad, I'm sorry - I know the two of you were old friends.
"We were - that's why the University put me in charge of the Ahztlarhan investigation."
They did? Wow! That's like the Holy Grail of Rhanukhani archaeology! And you want me to join you? I'll be on the next plane down!
*static*
Go ahead, this channel is secure.
"Your Resplendence, I can confidently report that my team have just killed the last of the Altered."
Good work, Major Tumbledryer - public knowledge of that blunder could have been a huge embarrassment.
"Indeed it could - our agents also managed to suppress any information in the media. Even Doctor Wallclock has agreed to keep quiet. Of course, that's due in no small part to the sizable paycheque he's going to be taking home now that we've recruited him for phase two."
We can afford it - this project has an extremely high priority. I trust you're still fine with going ahead, despite what these things did to your father in Lazarastra?
"Hn... yes - I don't blame the GBI-X1s for that. Malachite developed them - he is the one responsible for my father's death!"
Don't worry, Major - I still have access to the RNSA file on him - once the Symyano invasion is over and his usefulness has ended, he'll be brought to account for all his crimes!
*static*
In orbit, Fleetmaster Coohudalss and his aide, Kyookumbarr, discuss the ongoing conflict...
One nation??!! We have taken precisely one nation in the last ten turns of this world! This is not acceptable!!!
E-e-exalted Fleetmaster! I-I-I have t-today's reports.
GRAH! Put them on the main display!
A-as you command, exalted one!
Hmm... hnn... WHAT!!!! Is this correct?! We have lost control of three other nations while taking that previous one?!
Y-your e-e-exaltedness - it is the truth!
This is intolerable! The situation is worse than when I sent my request to the Highmaster!
R-request, exaltedness?
Ha! We will have his response soon enough. I am certain he will agree with my own judgement... and permit me to - well, you will see soon enough!
*gulp* E-exalted Fleetmaster?
Silence! I will be in my quarters - only disturb me if it is His Magnificence himself!
It shall be as you say, your exaltedness.
An enigmatic message is received at Glerican Splort Command...
Doctor Rodgers, my splort got through. The Cuckoo is in the nest.
C.K.I
With the mission to retrieve the Rhanukhani citizens in Glerica completed, the time has come for the Glerican Splort Command Base to depart Lehpuhrta...
+++INCOMING COMMUNICATION FROM GLERICAN SPLORT COMMAND BASE+++
Put it through, computer... Doctor Rodgers! Is everything set?
"Yes it is, Mr Malachite - I'll be splorting the base off your island in a moment."
Excellent - you'll be pleased to hear that the computer is aware of your intended departure and won't be attacking you with the Splort Disrupter - haha!
"hmph! I'm not sure I appreciate your sense of humour and anyway, speaking of computers - I still don't see why you won't continue helping us with the Gateway."
Ultimately, it's keeping the Symyano out of Glerica. As much as we appear to be pushing them back these days I'd sooner they didn't gain yet another foothold on the planet. The only reason I pitted my troops against the Gateway in the first place was because His Resplendence had personally ordered me to retrieve the Rhanukhani citizens you splorted!
"But you know what it's doing to everybody in there! You have the reports from your own field agents and the scans from when we managed to hack the system."
Indeed. That's the kind of reason why I didn't program a sentient personality into my own computer.
"Oh?"
No - the Simulated Intelligence Machine #1 is the hub of the entire Malachite Evolving Enterprises Master Network. It's merely a tool - I couldn't go letting it get its own way now, could I?
"Hm... I wonder what that feels like?"
What what feels like, Doctor?
"Being 100% right all the time?"
What are you trying to suggest, Doctor Rodgers?
"Heh! Nothing at all, Mr Malachite! Ah - I see the splort core is primed and ready - time to go. I must say, it's been... interesting... working with you, Mr Malachite - perhaps we'll do it again some day!"
Perhaps we will, Doctor. Goodbye!
+++ATTENTION! GLERICAN SPLORT COMMAND BASE HAS DEPARTED FROM ISLAND+++
Hmm... thank you, computer.
+++YOU ARE WELCOME+++
Hn?
Location: Glerican Splort Command, Silkisle - Glerican Nature Reserve
On top of all this, there was an astounding sense of loneliness for Dr. Rodgers. Despite technically being back on Glerican soil, she wasn't home. The Gateway still had control over mainland Glerica, and her companions - General Worstill and Professor George Concour - were dead after the attack by the Gateway. Working with Mr Malachite and Professor Sideboard had been the only people she'd spoken to in the last several weeks. Well, them and one other... she wondered what would happen if that information ever came to light.
In the meantime, there was her colleague - and only remaining active Splort Commando - Captain Kelli Irving, but remote messages don't count, do they? Jane booted up her laptop. It was time to sort out this Gateway issue once and for all.
Hi there! It seems that our beloved splort core has moved yet again, but this time to some uncharted place. I'd really appreciate it if you let me know where you are, so I could send you a "deepest sympathy" card. I realise that it's polite to send these after the person has died, but I'm sure that's just a formality!
Thanks for connecting!
Doctor Jane Rodgers isn't alone for long. A small garrison of Glerican troops - led by Captain Jerry Terrance - is based on Silkisle, as well as members of the nature reserve's staff. Aside from herself and Splort Commando, Captain Kelli Irving, they represent the only Glerican personnel who aren't held down by the Gateway computer and the nation's automated defences. They team up, with Captain Terrance assuming control of the base and its splort technology.
With the Symyano pushed out of Rhanukhan, work has commenced on projects not directly related to the invasion...
The Ahztlarhan dig is back on schedule. I was pleased to find my friend and colleague, Professor Teapot, kept meticulous notes throughout his time on the project. We should be out on site again during this coming week.
My son, Henry Jr, finally arrived earlier today - late, as usual - with the ridiculous excuse that he'd been involved in an incident with some gangsters back in Benbhallan and had awoken in the plane with his companion (a dancing girl he'd evidently picked up during said incident) to find the pilots had jumped out, taking the only parachutes with them. As if this tale wasn't far-fetched enough, he also claims that the two of them escaped certain death in the crashing aircraft by sailing down in an inflatable liferaft of all things! He hasn't changed since the last time we were together, three years ago - hopefully this project will encourage him to buckle down and engage in some serious archaeology.
He still insists on using that absurd "Inukhanes" nickname as well - no sense of pride in the family tradition, that boy!
Of course, the invasion continues, and things are about to step up a notch...
Fleetmaster Coohudalss. We have reviewed your reports on the invasion of Sargvilosahnah and have reached the same conclusion as yourself. Although habitable worlds are a rarity, we agree that the indigenous species is proving far more resourceful than anticipated and should be completely eradicated before it becomes a genuine threat to the Symyano Hegemony. His Magnificence, the Highmaster, has given the order to commence a total bombardment of the planet - you are to begin immediately! Do not fail him.
Overmaster Jaimsteeckerkk (Symyano Hegemony Stellar Fleet Command)
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
At last!
Exalted Fleetmaster?
Open a fleetwide communion - I have new orders for all vessels!
It shall be as you say, your exaltedness!
[Aboard the Symyano vessel, Klarakzvill, over Rhanukhan]
Sub-Fleetmaster Toizaruss! Incoming communion from the flagship!
Put it through - main screen!
"THIS IS FLEETMASTER COOHUDALSS TO ALL VESSELS! POWER UP MAIN WEAPONS AND COMMENCE IMMEDIATE PLANETWIDE BOMBARDMENT - WIPE THE STAIN OF LIFE FROM THIS WORLD'S SURFACE!"
He cannot be serious! Open communion with the flagship at once!
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Exalted Fleetmaster! I am receiving messages from many of the sub-fleetmasters, seeking confirmation of your order! Several raise the point that we have our own troops on the ground!
They will just have to withdraw around the bombardment! If they had taken this world like they were supposed to, they wouldn't be in this situation! Send orders to the ground forces to begin evacuating at once, but I want to see the inferior creatures below burning right now!
It shall be as you say, exaltedness!
[Constantine Malachite's Command Centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! ALL SYMYANO VESSELS IN ORBIT HAVE BEGUN POWERING UP THEIR PRIMARY WEAPONS!+++
What?! NO! Coohudalss, you lunatic - what are you playing at?
Constantine? What is he doing?
There's only one thing he can be doing, Lucy - he's going to destroy this world!
-GASP!- No - surely not?!
It would seem so - I've only heard of such total annihilation twice in the entire history of the Symyano Hegemony. On both occasions the species were deemed to pose a future threat and wiping them out completely was preferable to conquering them.
But - there are Symyano on the planet... wouldn't he-
Wait for them to withdraw? It doesn't look that way - we must have really got under his fur!
Then we have to-
I know! Hn! Coohudalss! Why are you making me do this? Computer! I want a total override of the entire OrbiTech Satellite network - now!
+++COMPLYING+++
[Newsflash from Rhanukhani State News Network]
Good evening viewers - I'm Trent Butterknife. We interrupt this program to bring you this warning from officials at the Palace of the Dedicated Worker. Reports have arrived that suggest the Symyano vessels all over Sargvilosahnah are commencing a bombardment of the planet's surface! The first projectiles have been reported falling in Brindjivashteli, Yerkinisjardul, Mahmalohan, Samr-
*static - all channels broadcasting on the OrbiTech Satellite Network suddenly shut down*
[Constantine Malachite's Command Centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! VESSEL DETECTED ASCENDING FROM PEMERKTICHOTKHI LAUNCH BASE+++
It must be their Protector! Constantine! They can't possibly hope to take on the entire Symyano fleet!
They're certainly brave, I'll give them that, but I have bigger concerns right now! Computer, use the codes stored in file CS76 to give me access to the Symyano Fleet's communication network!
+++COMPLYING+++
[Aboard the Symyano vessel preparing to bombard the city of San Timarina in Zlioristvamertivi]
Shipmaster! Sensors show a vessel approaching from the north! It was launched from the surface.
The surface? Those insignificant creatures have no vessel of that size...
It would seem that they d- GASP!- We are being scanned with a targeting beam!
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
The bombardment has begun, Exalted Fleetmaster!
Excellent! Soon this world will be a lifeless ball of rock!
It shall be as you say, exalted one. I can also report that the ground forces have already begu- what is this? Exaltedness! The inferior creatures have launched a vessel of their own - it has just destroyed the Gudcleenphun!
Pah - they are of no consequence! One vessel cannot hope to destroy us all before our work is d-
"THIS IS THE VOICE OF CHONMIKLATT OF THE SYMYANO TO ALL VESSELS OF THE INVASION FLEET! YOUR FLEETMASTER HAS MADE A GRAVE ERROR FOR WHICH YOU WILL ALL PAY WITH YOUR LIVES IF YOU DO NOT BREAK OFF AND WITHDRAW YOUR VESSELS FROM THIS WORLD IMMEDIATELY!"
He dares?! Where is that coming from?!!
"YOU HAVE OBSERVED THE POWER OF THE ORBITECH SATELLITE NETWORK IN RECENT WEEKS. YOUR VESSELS ARE NO MATCH! AS A GESTURE OF MY GOODWILL I WILL NOT ATTACK ANY VESSEL LEAVING THE SYSTEM, BUT THOSE OF YOU WHO CONTINUE IN THIS BOMBARDMENT... MAY THE HIGHMASTER COMMEND YOUR SOULS."
Ignore that! Send orders to the fleet - any vessel attempting to run will be shot down by me personally!
Exalted one! We appear to be locked out of our own communion network!
[Constantine Malachite's Command Centre, Lehpuhrta]
Are any of the vessels departing, computer?
+++NEGATIVE, ALTHOUGH MANY HAVE CEASED THEIR BOMBARDMENT. SPECULATION: THEY ARE AWAITING A RESPONSE FROM THE SYMYANO FLAGSHIP+++
They'll have a long wait with us overriding their communications. I suppose we need to set examples though... *sigh* Target and destroy any Symyano vessel continuing with the bombardment.
+++AFFIRMATIVE, HOWEVER, COMMUNICATIONS OVERRIDE WILL BE LOST IF ORBITECH SATELLITE NETWORK IS SWITCHED TO OFFENSIVE MODE+++
hn! Why is there never enough power to do everything? Fine! Go ahead! I really hoped to never have to give this order... computer - convert the OrbiTech Satellite Network to offensive mode!
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Exalted Fleetmaster! We have communion back!
Finally! Give the ord-
Your Exaltedness! Please forgive me! Vessels all across the fleet are reporting massive power surges in the space around them!
Chonmiklatt's satellites! How many does he have??!!!
W-w-w-we've just lost the Billeeva, exalted one! ...and the Sumdaiman! Vessels are disappearing across the fleet!!! Please - y-your orders!
Chonmiklatt wants us to withdraw from orbit... very well - he shall have his wish!
Y-you wish to sound the retreat, your exaltedness?
Not quite... open communion with all vessels!
[Constantine Malachite's Command Centre, Lehpuhrta]
+++ATTENTION! ONE HUNDRED AND FIVE SYMYANO VESSELS HAVE BEEN DESTROYED+++
So many... are the rest withdrawing?
+++SCANS CONFIRM THAT ALL REMAINING VESSELS ARE POWERING UP THEIR MAIN ENGINES+++
Then... then you did it, Constantine! The Symyano are retreating!
I... almost didn't believe they would.
+++ATTENTION! SYMYANO FLEET COMMENCING DESCENT!+++
Descent?! All of them???!!!
+++AFFIRMATIVE+++
[Aboard the flagship of the Symyano Fleet]
Chonmiklatt will not dare fire upon us once we are within the atmosphere - he has proven as much in the past!
Indeed, exalted fleetmaster.
If we cannot destroy this world from orbit then we will do so from the surface! COMMIT ALL FORCES TO A TOTAL GROUND ASSAULT!!!
