X-Com Archives

[Hobbes]

Very nice and detailed description. One thing that you could probably elaborate more a bit is the pincers of the Chrissie's arms, which are capable to cutting through the armor of a HWP. But this is a minor thing: the biological description is enough to make your hair stand up!

 

Edit: I wanted to write some data canister myself but I haven't really put my mind to it.

[Hobbes]

Data Canister 390, X-COM Archives, INV's final report on the nature of the 'Unknown Aerial Crafts'/'Unidentified Flying Objects', dated 11/27/1998

 

Introduction

--------------

 

For the past months several possibilities have been advanced to explain the nature of the sightings reported in the past year. INV's mission during that period has been to explore each of those possibilities, in order to achieve a satisfactory answer as to the origin of the UAC/UFO phenomena, and to determine their possible intentions, in case they are artificial manifestations of intelligent 'entities'.

However one aspect must be clarified beforehand, as this theme is highly controversial within the scientific community. Although the media and public opinion have been associating the UACs with the 'UFO' folklore that has appeared on popular culture in the past decades, INV has approached the subject from the start with an independent view from such claims. Few in the scientific community acknowledge the possibility of 'craft transporting extraterrestrial life forms in faster than light travel'. This reticence, which was expressed by nearly all experts interviewed, has guided our approach, in order to isolate our research from preconceived notions that lacked scientific proof.

Therefore we have chosen to analyze each reported incident independently, in order to detect patterns that might lead us into conclusions regarding the UACs/UFOs (therefore mentioned only as UACs to prevent preconceived notions regarding the UFO terminology).

 

Types of incidents

--------------------

 

Our data retrieval operations implied a variety of sources:

- Open source methods (news and other media reports).

- ELINT (electronic intelligence), namely radar, IR, optical and other types of sensors.

- Interviews with witnesses of UAC phenomena.

- Physical evidence retrieved from UAC sites.

- Attempts to achieve communication with the UACs, by radio, light and other means.

 

Where possible these methods were crossed to achieve confirmation of reports by several independent sources. Afterwards this allowed to classify the types of incidents into 4 main categories:

 

1) Simple observation of UAC phenomena. INV has confirmed several hundreds of those, with many more reports unconfirmed for lack of time/relevancy. Although several were later determined to be misinterpretations of natural occurrences or artificial (man-made) objects, the rate of confirmed UAC reports non-attributable to those causes largely exceeds any deviations for error.

 

2) Landings of UACs. Several dozen reports have been confirmed regarding UACs landing and departing from the ground. In those cases, the probability of confirmation sharply rises because there are no natural explanations.

 

3) Landing of UACs with sighting of its occupants. Although this category is distinguished from the previous one for statistical proposes, the pattern is that most landings (a 70% rate) are followed by observation of witnesses of 'entities' who are seen disembarking/embarking the UACs. However, in most of those sightings the only sources are witnesses, and in the cases where image and/or audio recordings were made, there are doubts concerning the authenticy of that data.

 

4) Landing of UACs with sighting and interaction of its occupants with witnesses. Those type of incidents represent the smallest minority of all cases investigated, but they are also the ones where there is more confirmation by several independent sources.

 

One particular notice regarding this classification: although it follows the pattern regularly used by 'UFO literature' to classify 'encounters', this was not the original intention at the beginning of the research but at the end it was adopted because the reports clearly fitted this logical classification.

 

Nature of the UACs

----------------------

 

From this point on, the following sections of this document will present an analysis based on the cases reported. Unlike the investigations performed to confirmed the previous reports, INV has failed to confirm several of the hypothesis mentioned, with the exception of those regarding natural phenomena. However, the fact that the nature of most UACs cannot be proven does not mean that those hypotheses are wrong, merely that there wasn't enough data to present proven conclusions.

 

I) Natural origin. In some reports it has been determined that natural objects were the cause of sightings, namely astral bodies and other physical objects. However, this explanation was found to only apply to type 1 reports, with very few exceptions.

 

II) Artificial (Earth-made) origin. The lack of proper answers to the majority of the reports observed led to the advancement of the hypothesis that the UACs are a technological breakthrough achieved by one of Earth's nations or groups. If confirmed, this proposition would explain most sightings as testing/deployment of such craft. However, it is nearly impossible to confirm this hypothesis due to the fact that no nation or a group has so far claimed ownership of the UACs, plus INV doesn't have the resources or mandate to gather intelligence into such top secret projects. Furthermore, the participation and collaboration on INV of the countries capable of mounting such an operation would not seem logic.

 

III) Artificial (non-Earth) origin. This is the most unorthodox explanation for the UACs but INV considers it to be the most logic, although it must be mentioned that there is no direct confirmation. There are several facts to consider regarding this hypothesis:

 

a) Recorded capabilities of the UACs, which have the ability to move from the surface to Earth's orbit and vice-versa, using velocities and maneuvering capabilities impossible to our current air and space craft. This implies a technological level in the areas of propulsion, aerodynamics and materials that would represent an engineering feat for any of Earth's nations.

 

b) Locations of the reports. If the source of the UACs was a single country it could be expected for it to follow a pattern, either by concentrating on a single area, or by pointing to a possible base of operations. Instead, UAC activity has been detected throughout the globe.

 

c) UAC activity. Again, if the nature of the UACs was military (as expected if a country developed such a system), its activities would follow traditional military missions. However, while it can be inducted that some of their missions might concern observation and surveillance, several others have a nature clearly different, namely the confirmed abductions of humans.

 

d) Descriptions of its occupants. Here there are several conflicting reports: in some cases witnesses describe clearly human shape figures while on others the descriptions largely vary, reporting 'entities' unlike anything seen on Earth. Also, all of the interviews conducted regard long range observation, with no cases of witnesses seeing the occupants at close sight.

 

e) Physical evidence left after landings. In several cases there were traces of radiation detected after a landing, although its origin and nature are undetermined. There were also 'burn marks' observed in trees and on the ground, and in some cases on steel and rock, which did not correspond to the effects of any known physical processes.

 

All of those remarks do not necessarily point towards a non-human origin of the UACs: it is well possible that they are merely the result of a technological breakthrough achieved by one of Earth's major nations, although if it existed it would a project so huge and massively funded that it would be surprising that it was not detected until now.

 

However, if hypothesis III is accepted, which INV considers being the most logical explanation, then it raises several new questions. Although they are mere conjectures, INV has tried to address them all on the next section.

 

Prospectives

--------------

 

Assuming that the nature of the UACs is of an artificial, non-Earth, nature then there are several points for which there are no present answers. All of the following ideas are highly speculative but if a single one is confirmed then it will have major implications regarding mankind.

 

1) Their origins.

 

Assuming an extraterrestrial nature then the problem turns to where those entities have originated. Our present data regarding the Solar System has established that Earth is the only planet where a civilization could have developed and reached the technological level demonstrated by the UACs. It is unconceivable that our planet supports another civilization besides mankind, which leads to the conclusion that the origin of those entities must be from outside the Solar System.

However, this presents another problem, or at least reveals the primitive level of human technology regarding the UACs. Although it must be impossible for the observed craft to achieve faster than light travel (which is assumed to be the method of traveling between stars because of the distance and time involved) those entities must have discovered a way to do so. And if the UACs originate from a location outside the system then there must be another way for them to travel between stars. It is not unconceivable that there are other civilizations on the galaxy: the number of existing stars and the process by which planets and life are formed could very well be a common process. However, the question still remains on how they manage to cover the vast distances involved, although in this case we might be simply suffering from a lack of

knowledge/imagination.

 

2) Their nature.

 

The question of how life and mankind appeared on Earth is still a matter of conjecture, since there is no physical evidence for the most part: the evolutionary path is filled with blank spots that the fossil record is unable to answer. The sightings of bipedal, human like life forms make it possible that humans might not have originated on this planet or that there once existed an ancient civilization on this planet that achieved interstellar travel. Although this possibility sounds preposterous it must be remembered that our knowledge of History is still a matter of controversy. And the non-Earth, but human origin of the UACs might sound unreal but it would also be the easiest way to engage such entities.

However, there are indications that there might be more than 1 civilization involved. If that is the case then there are no limits to what the occupants of the UACs look like. As demonstrated by the variety of life forms present on Earth, life has a way of adapting and evolving according to its environment, and it might also be possible that those entities have achieved the knowledge to determine their own evolution.

 

3) Their intentions.

 

This is the most disturbing part that INV has come to face concerning the UACs. Although their activity has largely been assumed to be of observation, the UACs have never attempted to achieve communication or reply to our transmissions. Furthermore, in some reported cases there was clear indication of 'aggressive' behavior by the part of the UACs and their occupants, although in most incidents both adopted an evasion strategy to prevent further contact. It must be stressed that perceived 'intentions' can be a very relative term, as demonstrated by the cultural differences on Earth: the actions of one group can be seen as 'hostile' by another, although that was not their original objective.

However, as several reports show, these entities seem to have a disregard for human life, expressed on the confirmed abductions and other 'aggressive' behavior observed (see report XIC-1039, in annex for further details). While this pattern of behavior can be attributed to self-defense by the part of those entities, their lack of communications does not correspond to a 'peaceful' contact between intelligent species.

Another example of culture interaction on Earth might also give some indications on what might be expected: more technological cultures tend to absorve/erradicate lesser ones, without considerations of morality. INV's conclusions based on the existing data, although not confirmed, seems to point that this might be the present situation regarding the entities responsible for the UACs.

 

Recommendations

---------------------

 

In order to establish a correct assessment of the nature of the UAC phenomena, INV therefore presents the following recommendations, as mandated by the United Nations Security Council.

 

- To immediately start conversations between its members in order to determine the response to the IAC/UFO phenomena, considering the conclusions presented on this report.

- To continue the investigations of the IACs/UFOs, in order to gather more data regarding the origin, nature and intentions of the IACs/UFOs.

 

New York, November 27th, 1998

 

INV Steering Group

[FullAuto]

Zero perspiration. Nice job, Hobbes.

[Hobbes]

A bit bland and unemotional but that was my intention while writing it. Thanks.

[FullAuto]

It's meant to be, unless it's a personal report.

[Hobbes]

I know, but I keep thinking (somewhat wrongly) that this thread is fanfiction, and that it should be written in a way that captivates the reader, not just a technical tone, supposedly meant for briefings and such. Skonar's texts have been much better by adding a personal touch.

[The Veteran]

--- Data Canister 1148, X-Com Archives. British Hydrospace Barracuda

 

The Barracuda is a a product of multi-national, government funded research into the development of a true 'flying submarine'. Development began in the late 2030s when XCom was unanimously reinstated to police the world's oceans following increasing incidents of air and sea craft lost to causes unknown. This period, documented as The Mary Celeste Sinkings, directly led to the second human-alien conflict on earth.

 

When XCom returned to power they assimilated the company of a wealthy software tycoon, the multimillionaire F. Denman Williams. This organisation SORESO (Sub-Oceanic Reconaissance and Extraterrestrial Salvage Operations) was Denman's attempt to clear the ocean floors of any alien artifacts and Elerium following the first alien war, a task already completed by XCom before its decommissioning in 2005.

 

Denman developed a great many prototype craft during his time with SORESO but none were ever deemed fit for use in the worlds oceans and none were ever produced as working vessels.

 

While Denman himself did not profit from his own creations however it is safe to say that XCom and much of the world did. Most famously, Denman's 'Khimtar' prototype was lost to mysterious circumstances near the wreck of the Titanic. It is now thought that this was the work of a USO operating nearby however this remains unconfirmed.

 

Regardless of the truth, Denman saw the prototype as another failure and sold it to a third party for the fraction of the cost of development so far.

 

It soon became apparent that Denman was more gifted than was obvious. His designs were flawed but his theories were genius. In several short months, the Khimtar prototype had been completed tested and manufactured, selling to several of the world's superpowers for military and civilian uses.

 

Many more designs would never be liberated in such a way but when XCom took control of SORESO it assimilated all of Denman's prototypes, theories and works already in progress.

 

In the closing months of 2038, XCom scientists and engineers joined forces with British Hydrospace and took the folley away from Denman's genius to create five promising prototypes. The Triton and Poseidon were troop transports, The Stingray, Barracuda and Moray were attack craft.

 

Following rigorous testing long into the Summer of 2039, The Moray and Stingray were outclassed in every way by the Barracuda, henceforce proving XCom with a state of the art fast attack submarine also capable of atmospheric flight.

 

The Barracuda is more aircraft than submarine in appearance. It maintains a sleek aerodynamic shape usings numerous vents and ports to ease the craft's passage through water.

 

The submarine itself is a single seater fighter craft with no space for passengers or cargo. The cockpit is again arrayed similarly to many military aircraft of the same era. It features dual controls, meaning that twin joysticks are used for both the piloting of the craft and the manipulation of its weapons and surveillance systems.

 

Weapons aside, the Barracuda features an incredibly sophisticated passive sonar capable of detecting movement down to the size of a large shark from many leagues in all directions. Several independent monitoring systems are also fitted to various hardpoints on the Barracuda to relay video feed, heat patterns, currents and other information either to the pilot or to a remote location.

 

The Barracuda can be equipped with two independent weapons systems ranging from the primitive gas cannons and Ajax launchers right through to the PWT Cannons and Sonic Oscillators derived from alien technology. These weapons systems can be configured to act autonomously allowing the craft to act as an unmanned roving patrol or even as a temporary yet formidable weapons emplacement.

 

The Barracuda's propulsion system has been derived from Denman's 'photon accelerator' a very closely related theory to the laser propulsion systems used in modern space travel today. The advancements made by Denman in this field of science have remained unrivalled to this day and some scientists still refuse to believe that it works at all.

 

The very simple principle of Denman's photon accelerator uses superheated lasers to propel the craft using an ingenious combination of generated heat and gasses. Even this theory is widely debated however, and since Denman's death it has been becoming increasingly unlikely that any scientific conclusion will be reached. Certain scientists have disgraced themselves in recent years by insisting that Denman has inadvertantly struck upon something quite extraordinary and manifested an anti-gravitational effect in his engines.

 

Whatever the conclusion may be, the Barracuda survived many years after XCom no longer had use for it. Some Air Forces today use the Barracuda simply as an atmospheric vehicle. Capable of speeds up to 2800mph and fitted with a virtually infallible weapons integration system, the Barracuda truly was an engineering breakthrough of the 21st century.

[Knick]

I really like this format--half fic, half guide! Here's my first ever:

 

--Data Cannister 874, Excerpt from Appendix A of the Doctoral thesis of Jeanette Lavelle-Colignon, "The Shadow Warriors", 2028, Queen's University Printers, Kingston, Ontario. Lavelle-Colignon is recognized as a leading scholar with respect to the psychology of X-com personnel, currently teaching at the Royal Military College, Kingston, Ontario.

 

Memo

 

To: All Staff

 

From: Base Commander Lavelle

 

RE: Safety and Security Procedures

 

Given the recent events in Research Lab B, Senior Management has determined that all Research and Development staff are to attend the following refresher courses:

 

Health and Safety;

Lab Safety Precautions;

Workshop Safety Precautions;

First Aid Refresher; and

Emergency Procedures.

 

In particular, R & D staff will observe the following safety procedures while working in either Labs or Workshops:

 

1. Research test teams will be under the authority of a team lead. The team lead is responsible for ensuring safety in the workplace.

 

2. Researchers and Engineers working on a project are obliged to follow the directions of the team lead, particularly when either examining alien technology, or building prototypical systems, weapons, or equipment.

 

3. While conducting tests of prototypical equipment, employees will follow the instructions of the team lead, and not second guess testing procedures. The team lead will issue a command for each step of the procedure. Team members will confirm the command, and verify its completion before moving to the next step. It appears a break-down in communications is at least partially responsible for the recent casualties in Lab B.

 

4. MediKits are placed in regularly-spaced brackets in each Lab. Please report any missing or defective MediKits. Please be aware that MediKits are for emergency only, and each use must be documented by the First Aider using the MediKit. Misuse will result in disciplinary penalties. Stimulant and Painkiller doses in the MediKits will be carefully monitored by Senior Management.

 

5. Future testing of Project Angel will continue, however, as discussed in Health and Safety meetings following the recent accident, new, high-tensile harnesses and restraints will be installed. All R & D staff will undergo training in the proper use of this new equipment. Central Command has approved the diversion of a modest supply of alien alloy for the installation of this necessary safety equipment.

 

Senior Management appreciates the stress and trauma undergone by the staff working on Project Angel. We are confident that the R & D staff will rise to the occasion and complete Project Angel within the estimated time lines. We are pleased to announce that Team Lead Henriksen is recovering in sick bay, and should be back at work within a week, broken jaw notwithstanding.

 

As a final note, Base Maintenance assures us that Lab B will be functional within 24 hours. They also hope to repair the damage to the ceiling, once they determine the most efficient method of removing the prototype antigravity suit currently embedded in the roof.

[JellyfishGreen]

Heh. Health and Safety Procedure Reviews for alien tech and weaponry. I like it. But I still think the scientists are overpaid.

[JellyfishGreen]

In a fit of madness I've copied several more data canisters to the UFOpaedia wiki. If you're not in there, don't feel left out, I intend to get them all eventually. Or join the wiki and do it yerself, feel free to follow my examples!

[Knick]

Heh. Health and Safety Procedure Reviews for alien tech and weaponry. I like it. But I still think the scientists are overpaid.

 

Could have been worse. There could have been a hapless researcher inside.

 

--Data Cannister 874B, Excerpt from Appendix A of the Doctoral thesis of Jeanette Lavelle-Colignon, "The Shadow Warriors", 2028, Queen's University Printers, Kingston, Ontario. Lavelle-Colignon is recognized as a leading scholar with respect to the psychology of X-com personnel, currently teaching at the Royal Military College, Kingston, Ontario.

 

Security Report

Fire Arms discharge Report

 

To: Base Cmdr. Lavelle

From: Capt. Petrov, Duty Officer

RE: Disturbance Reported, General Stores C, 03-06-1999

 

0134h—Received report of excessive and unexplained noise in the vicinity of General Stores C. Security unable to identify source of disturbance on surveillance cameras.

 

0137h—Proceeded to General Stores C, armed with standard LP sidearm. Upon investigation, discovered PFC Sato, PFC Blake, and Recruit Reynolds. Upon question, all denied any wrongdoing or disturbance. While engaged in further questioning, several loud noises were heard from an unused equipment locker.

 

Determined, upon investigation, determined that a pacified life-form, known as a “Reaper” was present. LP discharged at this time. PFC Blake prevented further discharge.

 

PFC Blake, PFC Sato, and Recruit Reynolds subsequently confined to quarters. Security removed Reaper to Containment.

 

*****************************************************************

Discipline Report

 

RE: PFC Blake

PFC Sato

Recruit Reynolds

 

Incident of 03-06-1999

 

Accused, by their own admission, broke into alien containment. They acquired a Reaper, held there for investigation.

 

The Reaper was taken to General Stores C. General Stores C is currently at approximately half its normal capacity. The Reaper was fit with a control collar at all times.

 

Accused then engaged in what they termed an “alien rodeo”, taking turns riding the Reaper in the corridors, while the others kept watch.

 

Upon confrontation by Duty Office Cpt. Petrov, the accused initially denied any wrongdoing. Petrov detected the smell of alcohol on the breath of the accused. When Petrov discovered the presence of the Reaper, PFC Blake prevented Petrov from killing the Reaper with the Duty Officers’ side arm. When confronted with the presence of the Reaper, the Accused claimed they were performing research in the use of Reapers as Cavalry Mounts.

 

Accused were sent to the Brig. Security removed the Reaper.

 

Discipline Imposed:

 

PVC Blake and PVC Sato to lose their base privileges for one month for misuse of prisoners, drunkenness, and wanton and reckless disregard for base safety.

 

Recruit Reynolds to be assigned to KP for three weeks for failing to display good judgement.

 

Non-disciplinary actions:

 

Petrov to log an addition five hours target practice with LP.

 

Recommend that recreational facilities and activities at Europa Base be expanded.

 

******************************************************************

 

Memorandum

To: All Base Personnel

From: Base Commander Lavelle

RE: Intramural Football Tournament

 

After receiving several requests, Senior Management has agreed to hold an intramural touch-football tournament. Teams should consist of at least ten players, and are open to all Military and non-Military staff.

[Knick]

--Data Cannister 541A: Undated report on Xenopsychology, likely presented to X-Com Board of Directors and Base Commanders sometime during the first year of the First Alien War. Presenter is believed to be Team Lead Dr. Adekya

 

"The interrogation was not entirely a matter of forcing information out of the subjects. Our experience indicates that threats of pain do not provide accurate information from Sectoids. Mutons have little care for pain. Although they clearly show signs of pain, they almost seem to welcome it. Snakemen appear to be the most susceptible to standard interrogation techniques.

 

"Our research seems to indicate a schism between the races. There are roughly three categories: leader races; servant races; and what can best be described as outside contractors-mercenaries.

 

"The relative position of each race in the alien hierarchy is reflected by their relative strategic abilities. During our interrogations, we attempted to gauge the critical thinking abilities of each race through the use of a variety of games.

 

"The Mutons are quite rightly dubbed the "green meanies" by our troops. For our perspective, all they know is attack, regardless of the odds. Some attempts were made to teach Muton prisoners the basics of strategic board games. Researchers had great difficulty in teaching basic rules to such games as Risk, Chess, Stratego, or Axis and Allies. In particular, Muton prisoners had difficulty accepting the use of game pieces as a representative of the player. Mutons demonstrated a propensity for direct physical retaliation on opposing game pieces, rather than representational retaliation, as required by most games.

 

"It's not so much that Mutons are poor losers, as they are unable to separate themselves from the gaming concept. We went through several Risk boards in coming to these conclusions!

 

"For some reason, Mutons had a greater acceptance of computerized games. We suspect that absence of overt "rules of the game" was somewhat comforting to the Mutons. They are able to work within restricted circumstances, but are unable to self-impose those restrictions. This leads us to believe that Mutons are unable to address issues of supply, demand, lines of communications, scarce resources, or husbanding of resources. This impression was reinforced following a number of games of Risk. The Muton player displayed a propensity to attack, regardless of the odds. Mutons appear to have no concept of strategic retreat, the creation of strong points, choke points, feints, or the preservation of existing forces. When engaged in more complex games, such as Axis and Allies, Mutons displayed an inability to manage supply chains, or otherwise make use of strategic targets.

 

"Gentlemen, Mutons may be tough adversaries, however, they are wholly unable to prosecute a war of this scope. They are unthinking foot-soldiers who simply do as they are told-they are the light brigade, without a Tennyson to romanticise their slaughter. It is clear that they are taking orders.

 

"Sectoids have been put forward as the likely "brains behind the brawn". The first intelligent species encountered by humanity other than our own, we have seen direct evidence of their mental abilities.

 

"Our research indicates that they have considerably greater powers of critical thinking. For example, they were able to grasp basic restrictions and rules of games. An oddity of the Sectoid strategy is their difficulty in understanding the concept of limited resources. Although they displayed far greater strategic ability then other races, they initially had difficulty in conserving resources. Theorists posit that SEctoids are accustomed to working with virtually unlimited military resources. As you can imagine, this revelation is somewhat disturbing in the context of limited X-Com funding and resources.

 

"Sectoids demonstrate an ability to engage in tactical retreats, feints, and the ability to manage supply lines and resources. Interestingly enough, they have difficulty in addressing alliances. For example, in some games with multiple, independent players working together, Sectoids had difficulty and appeared frustrated when allied players-invariably human-engaged in self-interested strategies, for example, husbanding strength rather than supporting an ally, or by seizing valuable assets or goals despite the Sectoid players greater need. This appears to indicate a true hive mentality, where individual needs are entirely suborned to the commonweal. Sectoids would derive a considerable advantage from a divided humanity.

 

"Snakemen were easily the most fascinating specimens. We have already determined that they appear be genetically unmodified. As such, they appear to be outside contractors in this war. Mercenaries. As of yet, we are uncertain what payment, if any, they derive from their activities.

 

"Snakemen demonstrated advances strategic knowledge and thinking. Unlike other races, they were able to husband their resources, engage in strategic retreats, employ feints, and take clearly calculated risks. Unlike Sectoids, they were also able to create temporary alliances with other players-including human players-and would break those alliances where they deemed it advantageous.

 

"Further, Snakemen appeared to take delight in winning, and even engaged in sportsmen-like behaviour. They appeared to play games for the sake of playing. Snakemen actually preferred games involving multiple players, with the least restrictive rules possible, allowing for greater freedom of action and creativity. Currently, their favourite games are Age of Empires and Starcraft.

 

"It is clear that Snakemen appear to be a far more individualistic society than other alien races. Further investigation may be warranted.

 

"On reflection, it seems a pity that Humanity encountered the Snakemen in the context of this war. Under different circumstances, we likely could have forged a lasting and beneficial relationship."

 

END TRANSCRIPT

 

NOTE TO FILE: It appears substantial a substantial amount of information is missing from the research files relating to Xeno-psychology. In particular, it appears the methodology of the researchers interrogations was removed before files were submitted to archives. Regrettable, Dr. Adekya is no longer available to confirm his methodology.

[Knick]

--Data Cannister 751: Evidence presented during the Abella Commission relating to possible Human Rights violations during the prosecution of the First Alien War. While X-Com Executive conceded the veracity of the substance of the following report, some portions, particularly the conclusions and the Director's notes, were hotly disputed by X-Com representatives.

 

Preliminary Report: New Guided Missile System

 

Alien artefact retrieved following assault on AB-02. Preliminary field reports indicate substantial destructive power of ordinance. Field reports also indicated appearance of guidance during flight, including a number of very tight right-angle turns.

 

Description:

 

Launcher is grey-blue in colour. Constructed of alien alloys, the Launcher is a two-handed weapon which barely fits into a standard issue combat pack. The Launcher is slightly lighter than a standard issue Heavy Cannon. The Launcher is front-end loaded, and has a small, easily accessible interface on the top. Two copper leads are situated in the back of the barrel, and are used for transmitting programmable co-ordinates to the ordinance.

 

The ordinance is small, blueish-grey, and very lightweight. Approximately the size and shape of a football, they may be hung on belt webbing, or placed in standard issue combat packs. The ordinance cannot be armed until it is loaded into the launcher. There are two copper leads at the back of the ordinance which are used to transmit data from the Launcher. The Ordinance will automatically align itself with the leads.

 

Use

 

The Launcher is held with two hands. A strap extending from the front of the Launcher to the stock provides additional support. Soldiers may use one hand (usually the left, although the Launchers are ambidextrous) to front-load the ordinance. The ordinance is fully loaded when a tell-tale double click is heard. Once the ordinance is loaded, soldiers may enter co-ordinates or way-points into the programmable interface. The originally-alien interface has been modified to reflect a more familiar three-dimensional Cartesian co-ordinate system, with the operator at co-ordinates 0,0,0. Once up to ten co-ordinates are entered, the ordinance may be launched by the trigger located on the bottom of the Launcher. There is virtually no recoil from launch.

 

Performance--Accuracy

 

Following examination of the launcher and ordinance, a number of dummy ordinances were constructed. Repeated tests indicated that, with some practice, co-ordinates could easily be entered, and ordinance could be launched in the space of ten seconds.

 

The guidance system of the ordinance had a very high degree of accuracy. Minor modifications permitted the interface of the guidance system with the battlefield GPS system, allowing for true tactical stand-off strike capability in combat situations. Line of sight issues are entirely irrelevant with this weapon.

 

Some discrepancy was noted where there were long distances between waypoints. There was a slight tendency for ordinance to drift in transit. Reduced distances between waypoints mitigated these discrepancies. Greatest accuracy was achieved by using right-angle turns on the horizontal axis.

 

An apparent design flaw in the navigational system of the ordinance causes a malfunction if the ordinance is programmed to perform a right-angle vertical turn. The ordinance naturally turns to the south, with almost random results-sometimes the ordinance will reacquire its programmed way-point, sometimes not. Such a misfire may be extremely dangerous to the operator. Right-angle vertical turns should be avoided at all costs. This flaw may be related to the Earth's magnetic field.

 

Performance-Power

 

The ordinance consists of a fusion core, in which a small amount of elerium is bombarded with gravitational waves. The resulting mass is highly unstable. Although inert prior to insertion in the launcher, the mass will rapidly destabilize once the ordinance strikes an object. Unlike even primitive earth-based nuclear weapons, the ordinance is an odd combination of highly advanced physics and chemistry, and old-fashioned World War One era explosive shells. The ordinance cannot be programmed to self-destruct.

 

Live fire trials indicated the substantial destructive power inherent in these weapons. One ordinance produces a blast radius of approximately 23 meters diameter. Virtually every object within the blast radius will be destroyed. Virtually no heat is produced by the ordinance. The explosion appears to generally be disk-shaped, propagating from ground zero outwards, but only minimally upwards and downwards. This behaviour is believed to be related to the anti-gravity propulsion system within the ordinance. Further, regardless of the strength of the blast, the blast radius is a constant, and never extends beyond 11 meters from ground zero. The process by which the blast radius is limited is as of yet, unknown. Further, there is no discernible radiation following the deployment of an ordinance.

 

Explosive power of the ordinance does decrease with distance from ground zero. Trials indicate that at the outermost edge of the blast, the ordinance will demolish a brick wall. Reinforced doors will be destroyed at about nine meters from Ground Zero. Reinforced walls will be destroyed at a distance of three meters. It is believed that a direct hit will puncture the outer hull of an enemy craft. Terrestrial structures could be quickly and efficiently demolished with this weapon.

 

The final set of live-fire trials involved the effects of this weapon on organic targets. Initial findings were very positive. The predictable nature of the blast radius permitted precision targeting. It was further found that organic targets do no typically provide cover against the effects ordinance. This weapon will therefore be very effective against groups of enemy. Conversely, this weapon may present a hazard if misused, misfired, or controlled by a mind-controlled agent. While it is possible that an armoured soldier may survive on the periphery of the blast, a direct hit is invariably fatal. Further, targets do not appear to produce a blast shadow, suggesting the explosive energy of the ordinance does not propagate from a central point in a linear fashion, so much as envelop all objects in its path.

 

One misfire occurred in live fire testing. One ordinance was launched, with the intention that it circumvent a "friendly" organic target, and strike a second target some distance away. The ordinance continued in a straight line, embedding itself in the friendly target, but failing to detonate. Later examination of the "dud" revealed the absence of a navigational system and fusion core.

 

Conclusion

 

This weapon represents a substantial tactical advantage on the battlefield and the ultimate in stand-off strike capacity. These weapons will be particularly useful in assaults on enemy craft. If further research can overcome the apparent limitations on the strength and blast radius of the ordinance, a weapon of substantial tactical and strategic value could be produced following the successful prosecution of the current conflict.

 

Requisition Report

 

Request submitted for civilian indemnification as follows:

 

$50,000 Reparation for crop and field damage

$150,000 Reconstruction of two haylofts

$250,000 Reparations for collateral damage to farm house

$40,000 Compensation for replacement vehicles

$75,000 Compensation for loss of 47 head of cattle

 

Request for clean-up crew, including civilian treatment and recovery.

 

Director's notes:

 

Request for indemnification and reparations approved. Clean-up squad to report to test site. Civilian trackers to be installed to facilitate later processing. Clean-up squad to use every effort to salvage damaged material for X-Com use, or otherwise attempt to recoup losses from research efforts.

 

Launcher to be issued to squads, as necessary.

 

All future indemnification expenses to be pre-approved at the Director level. Failure to follow procedure will result in disciplinary action.

[storm turmoil]

--Data Cannister 355: Analysis and outcome of later usage of the Quasi-Psionic Biometric scanning device commonly referred to as the 'Alien Mind Probe' and discussion of it's likely methods of origin and operation. Technical details sequestered from Archives and where appropriate, from the files of the Zager institue for Psionic advancement

 

Report on Artefact classified Catalogue XCRAA 132MP.

 

This device, erroneously referred to as the 'Alien Mind probe', is visually characterised as a Blue sphere, approximately six inches in diameter, with no outward distinguishing marks, save for the fact that it's surface defies characterisation as any known material, and has an as yet undefined texture.

 

The misidentification of the artefact as a mind probe is a relatively simple mistake undoubtedly caused by the nature of it's operation. While the exact mechanisms were at first suspect, the actual empirical data gathered by the device is limited largely to relatively simple biometric information, and is rendered unique only by the novel method of it's readout to the user.

 

To utilise the device, physical contact or extremely close proximity of the user's nervous tissue to the device is required: The wearing of gloves or armour gauntlets will not impede usage of the device, but seperation of more than approximately 15mm between the subjects tissues and the device will break contact, regardless of the intervening medium. Conversely, below that 'threshold' distance, even plates of densified metals such as lead sheet or boron composites will not cause loss of contact.

 

When the device is first handled, and to a lesser extent on subsequent handlings, the user is reported to experience a sensation of itching or other disconfort such as localised pins and needles in the tissues in contact with the device, usually the fingers and thumbs. This sensation is not always present in all cases. It is theorised that this discomfort is actually an acclimatisation to the device, and may in fact be a symptom on the part of the user as much as one triggered by the device.

 

The second stage of use involves directing the device at a possible subject. Using a variety of sophisticated scanning methods, including some already known to human science, though greatly refined, and others with no overt connection to any existing human science or technology, a large volume of biometric data is gathered in a very short space of time, and processed into a distinct format optimised for rapid assessment.

 

This is the point at which the device displays it's true mystery, and the reason it was erroneously labeled. Rather than utilise a visual, audio, or other indirect sensory pickup, the device uses Quasi-Psionic technology to relay the information directly into the user's brain in the form of artificially structured short term memory engram sequences. This leads to the sensation of already 'knowing' all the data the device has harvested.

 

This process is so subtle, that it may not be immediately noticed, and the resulting knowledge may only be picked out from 'real' memeories by it's lack of an apparent origin. (this can include the sensation of 'flashbacks' similar to the phenomena reported by some formed users of hallucinogenic drugs, or a feeling of 'deja vu').

 

It is possible for this data to be consciously processed so long as attention is properly focused. Upon 'accessing' the data, the relevant information is immediately available to the user in the form of direct sensory/memory data, including artificial visual, olfactory, audio, and other stimuli recreated by direct stimulation of the approriate sensory cortex. In effect, the user can 'see', 'smell', 'hear', 'touch', taste' and 'feel', the subject in their own mind. It is suspected that there are other sensory mechanisms stimulated by the device that are not affected in humans due to lack of development in the approriate areas, or because of divergent evolution.

 

The device updates all this information in real time, for as long as the device is held, and the subject is retained in focus. Line of sight is not always necessary for acquisition of subjects. In some cases, subjects can be acquired spontaneously without conscious effort on the part of the user. The mechanism behind this is unclear. In certain cases, more data than the usual biometric data can be acquired. This seems to vary by user.

 

In all cases, use of the biometric data can reveal large amounts of information, not only about a subjects physical state, but also their psychological state, by picking up on unconcious physical cues. It is possible, for example, to determine whether a test subject is lying with a high degree of accuracy by analysis of heart rate, respiration frequency, neural activity, perspiration, sensory activity, muscular response and neurotransmitter levels. It is also a valuable medical diagnostic tool, able to analyse and diagnose many injuries and diseases through their effect on body processes in a safe, non invasive manner.

 

These applications make this device a very versatile commodity which may prove to be a real boon in the fields of criminalistics and medicine. However, caution is advised, as the device has already found its way into illicit activities before ever leaving the site of it's first recovery.

 

In one instance, the unit was used as a means of perpetrating scams between troopers, wherein large sums of money were fleeced from soldiers in an elaborate scheme involving a degree of showmanship and the use of this device to influence the outcome by analysing players bodily reactions. This apparently went unnoticed until the scheme failed to work for a reason that was, at the time, inexplicable (reference file PSIPL356: latent psionic ability and subconscious active psionic damping).

 

The second, and from an objective point of view, more morally damaging incident involved use of the device as a non-invasive 'remote viewing' device that could actively create sensory images of distant subjects which could then be replayed to another user. In this instance, the areas under remote surveilance included the female locker rooms and restrooms on site, and the device in question changed hands on a regular basis, with users 'competing' to see who could get the 'best' ( ie, most explicit or embarassing) images from said locations. This particular activity was broken up by a planted sleeper within the ranks of the troopers, who blew the whistle on the whole affair and brought the missing device forward. The names of those involved (both perpetrators and victims) and the name of the agent who broke the ring are classified at security level X-Ray.

 

As the origins of this device are difficult to determine, due to the possibilities of it arising either as a medical, pyschological, observational or even as a loyalty testing tool, the exact methodology of use as practiced by the aliens is hard to attempt to classify. It is known that Alien scout missions routinely carried this device, and it is also commonly reported that it is often recovered from terror sites and abduction sites also. This may indicate it's purpose on those missions is primarily as a means of assessing the lifeforms they come into contact with.

 

The mechanism of the device is *** Subject Classified security level PSI-Z*** and is not thought to be reliant on any psionic abilty on the part of the user. The power behind the mechanism is, as with most alien technology, Elerium based, in this case operating in conjunction with a chemical-organic compund that may be bio-engineered for this purpose. Analysis of this compund shows existence of long chain organic molecules and a quasi-proteinaceous structure arising that bears resemblance to simplified nervous structures. This structure is not permanent, and changes over time. When the device is in use, the structure seems to 'solidify' and remain relatively constant, and it may be that this liquid is the base of a self programming organic computer, literally a liquid 'brain' that can dissolve and recreate portions of it's structure at need. This fits well with the observed nature of Alien technology, their prevalence of organic processing wetware within their ships, and the rumours of a controlling 'brain' that guides their actions.

 

To conclude, I must request that information on this subject be held confidential until this matter can be properly debated by meeting of the chief commisioners. Certainly, the demands for release of the technology by legal profession and medical representatives should not be rejected out of hand, but at the same time, great care must be taken to address the possible repercussions of release of such technology, particularly considering the ramifications the use of such devices by criminal, corrupt or disloyal parties may bring about.

 

END TRANSCRIPT.

 

NOTE: Following the submission of this report, the vote by the council was unanimous to bar the release of this technology to the general public, or to any but military medical facilities. This was vetoed and was intended to go to a recount, but before the council could be reconvened, more than half of the council were impeached on grounds of scandal. Later investigation found that a quarter were blackmailed into resigning or chose to take 'early retirement' on the grounds of stress or ill health. The scandalous pictures made the tabloids for weeks after, though no paperazzi would admit to taking the pictures, and no culprit was ever found. Those involved denied the charges strenuously, but the weight of evidence counted against them.

 

The first Medical MP-Scanner went into operation at a private clinic in California 2 months later

[Knick]

X-Com seems like a pretty dodgy operation these days.

 

--Data Cannister 567: Excerpt from Research materials relied upon for The Shadow World: Life in Europa Base during the Alien War , by Jeanette Lavelle-Colignon, (2034), Maclean-Stuart Press, Montreal, Canada. Lavelle-Colignon relied upon her special relationship with the former Base Commander to ensure a substantial portion of the day-to-day records of Europa base were preserved. Unclassified documents were made part of a special bequest on behalf of the Lavelle family to the Canadian War Museum. Lavelle-Colignon's research is considered a seminal look at the soldiers behind the public facade of X-Com.

 

Notice

 

To: All Personnel

From: Base Commander Lavelle

RE: Intramural Football Tournament

 

It has come to my attention that there have been some complaints concerning the Intramural football finals. In particular, a team has been accused of tampering with equipment. I have asked IO Franks to investigate the matter further.

 

Please be advised that the Intramural football tournament finals have been suspended until further notice.

****************************************************

Memorandum

 

To: Base Commander Lavelle

From: Doctor Robbins

RE: Caseload Trends

 

This report is a follow-up to your request of an overview of the status of the Infirmary and Medical Bay.

 

As you are aware, the Medical Wing was designed to carry up to ten patients at any one time, with sufficient operating capacity and triage facilities to deal with casualties following missions. The allotted space was adequate for our needs in the first few months of base operations. For the most part, injuries fell into two categories.

 

The first category consisted of minor injuries resulting from activities in and around the base. In particular, there were numerous light sprains, pulled muscles, and abrasions resulting from training. It was very rare for personnel to be incapacitated as a result of base-side activities.

 

The second category of injuries consisted of mission-related injuries. These injuries generally were the result of shrapnel wounds, or friendly fire or collateral damage injuries. Shrapnel injuries resulting from enemy ordinance typically was the most serious and was the most likely to cause near-fatal wounds. Such injuries usually required extensive bed-rest. Friendly fire incidents, while unfortunate, would entail a quicker recovery time and often were not life-threatening on the battlefield.

 

More recently, we have seen an increase in the number of personnel reporting to the infirmary with life-threatening injuries. In particular, we have consistently encountered a third, very common form of injury-plasma burns from enemy weapons. The severity of these injuries varies enormously, requiring anywhere from three to twenty days recovery. Although there appears to be an increase in the number of injuries of assault squad members, in fact new technology has actually substantially improved the survival rate of personnel as follows:

 

1. Increased armour protection. All squad members are issued either personal armour, or powered armour. While not proof against all enemy weapons, a glancing blow is not necessarily fatal. Kevlar vests with ceramic trauma pads failed to provide sufficient protection. Blows which would otherwise be fatal are now merely result in serious injury.

 

2. Issuance of medical kits. Battlefield medi-kits, while developed early in the war, did not come into their own until the advent of personal armour. Not only are wounds less likely to be fatal, injuries can be quickly treated on the spot, thus preventing fatalities.

 

3. Weapons and Training. It is apparent that more advanced and accurate weapons and improved training have decreased casualty rates substantially. The fast the enemy is neutralized, the fewer injuries sustained.

 

In short, the increased number of casualties in the recovery ward masks the substantial decrease in fatalities during sorties. The Medical Bay is now suffering from a shortage of bed-space, but an over-abundance of morgue space. The solution to this problem suggests itself.

 

Morale Issues

 

Overall, morale among soldiers appears good. There is a healthy amount of complaining, but no noticeable malingering in the infirmary. Squads still act as a cohesive unit, and as such, are efficient and professional in their roles.

 

Exceptions to this rule are soldiers who have undergone psionic attacks. While not universal, some soldiers appear extremely rattled by these attacks. Long term effects are uncertain, at best.

 

Finally, there have been several complaints concerning food quality in the cafeterias. In particular, the preponderance of beef at virtually every meal has resulted in constipation and gastro-intestinal distress. While normally popular with personnel, it would be advisable to replace the red meat with chicken, pork, or fish several days per week.

 

On a personal note, Col. Colignon will recover from her wounds within two days.

***********************************

General Notice to All Staff

 

To: All Personnel

From: Base Commander Lavelle

RE: Intramural Football Tournament

 

As a result of IO Franks' investigation, I regret to announce the Intramural Football Tournament has been cancelled.

 

I remind all staff that tampering or modifying alien equipment, particularly guided missiles such as Blaster Bombs, regardless of apparently harmless intent, is extremely dangerous and is a punishable offence. Guided weapons systems are vital to the defence of this base, and should not disassembled for any reason except as required for research. They are not toys. Further incidents of this nature will result in severe disciplinary penalties.

 

Engineering Team B will be assigned to KP duties with restricted base privileges until further notice.

[FullAuto]

For the purposes of continuity and keeping his shit together, Skonar asked me to shift his posts into a topic in Stories, so don't worry, they're all there, and the discussions here are all intact (thoguh there subjects may not be).

[The Veteran]

--- Data Canister 147, X-Com Archives.

 

Kiryu-Kai F2-A2 Interceptor

 

The Japanese F2 fighter was developed in the late 1980s to replace several aging Japanese models and was based on General Dynamics' F16 fighter craft. The F2 was designed to be more resilient than its predecessor and was also significantly larger. With a wingspan of almost 12 meters the F2 boasted a wing area 25% larger than the F16 along with a larger tailplane and enlarged air intake for improved performance.

 

The craft was constructed from composite materials in order to reduce both overall weight and radar signature and sported a cutting edge phased-array radar itself in an extended nose. The offensive capabilities of the F2 allowed it to carry up to four anti-ship missiles, a further four anti-air missiles and when necessary additional fuel tanks for entended flights. Standard armament also consisted of a single 20 mm JM61A1 cannon.

 

Various models were constructed during development providing both 1 and 2 seat versions each with three- piece cockpit canopies allowing for both better pilot safety and visibility. Final measurements for the F2 came in at over 15 meters long and almost 5 meters high weighing in at just under 10 tonnes. Its single engine was capable of providing almost 30,000lbf thrust pushing the craft at speends in excess of mach 2.0.

 

The standard F2-A single seated fighter was due to enter operation in 1999 however this date was delayed for a further year when in 1997 the project was seized directly by the Japanese government amid growing rumours of alien intrusions.

 

In the following year, a vast amount of government funding was diverted to further development of the F2 with a view to construct just a handful of 'Extraterrestrial Combat Craft' intended to safeguard Japan against any future developments regarding "a possible encounter of hostile alien life" as stated in the project brief.

 

Further development of the F2 provided the Japanese with an even faster craft with much of the work done being attributed to maneouverability and thrust. Cutting edge fuel and radar systems were integrated into the design of the new F2-A2 to allow unprecedented range and detection capabilities and in July 1998 the final prototype was completed on schedule but over budget.

 

The Japanese launched their preemptive planetary defense force, code named the Kiryu-Kai, in August 2008. It operated from only one base located in central Japan and was outfitted with seven F2-A2 interceptor aircraft.

[The Veteran]

--- Data Canister 729, X-Com Archives.

 

Alien Probe / Small Scout

 

Despite being the smallest of the alien craft encountered during the first alien war (AW1) the Small Scout was by no means the first. The small size and erratic behaviour of this vessel whilst in flight made it virtually impossible for X-Com to detect, monitor or intercept it for many months into the conflict. It was not until the introduction of a large radar array in X-Com's Australian base 'Pine Gap' that it became possible to track these much smaller aircraft.

 

Despite the erratic movements of this craft whilst in motion it is in fact the slowest of the alien craft, exceeding the Hurricane in speed by only 100kts. Despite this fact, it was a rare occurence for X-Com pilots to succesfully engage a Small Scout. Pilots stated that this was due to the scout craft being unarmed and therefore 'unwilling to engage in battle' with a clearly superior X-Com craft.

 

On the occasions when successful was made the scout craft were said to literally disintegrate under any kind of weapons fire from X-Com craft. No Small Scout was ever successfully shot down over land without being either destroyed outright or decimated upon impact.

 

The 'Alien Probe' was so named on the assumption, based on size, that the craft was unmanned and therefore either automated or remotely operated. The vessel was not renamed as the 'Small Scout' until one such craft was found to have touched down in farmland near enough to an X-Com base for a Skyranger to be deployed.

 

On arrival at the site, the soldiers' assumption that the craft was indeed unmanned allowed several alien soldiers to inflict heavy casualties on the attending squad before order was quickly restored and the objective secured. Post-combat reports and recovered items and corpses placed at least four aliens inside the craft when it had landed, a staggering amount considering its size.

 

The craft itself is little more than a large cone in appearance, supported by four 'legs' which support it roughly two meters above the ground when landed. Upon examination by X-Com scientists and engineers however it became apparent that these were more than simple landing legs but were in fact part of an incredibly intricate system of sensors, relays, cameras and probes all with the sole purpose of mapping alien worlds and gathering information on their inhabitants.

 

This revelation prompted the craft to be redesignated as a fully fledged scout vehicle and, due to its size, it became the Small Scout. Since X-Com troops first encountered the Small Scout apparently abandonned in farmland only to be ambushed by a small squad of alien soldiers, it has comically been nicknamed 'The Clown Cone' due to it's unlikely ability to transport any lifeforms at all.

[chiasaur11]

Well, it's old and dusty in here, but I kinda felt the urge to write one of these.

 

X-Com data canister 902: Memorandum from Dr. Peter Vincent on the subject of Chryssalid Memory transfer

 

Commander, strictly for the record, I said this was bullshit when the investigation started. But the case of Sgt. Brooks and several field reports recently have forced me to reevaluate the whole thing.

 

Obviously, victims don

[Hobbes]

[X-COM Data Canister 1304 - X-COM Commander Last Notice to Commanding Officers, April 9th, 1999]

 

1. All X-COM personnel are required to wear their issued uniform while on duty or inside any X-COM installation. It is strictly forbidden to wear any other sort of civilian or military attire, unless authorized by the X-COM Commander.

2. It is the duty of all personnel to ensure proper care and maintenance of their weapons, equipment and clothing and to maintain a correct image while on duty. The painting of slogans or any other messages on armor and equipment is to be curbed in order not to contain foul language or improper images.

3. All personnel are ordered to have a haircut according to regulations. Furthermore, any kind of hair-shaping products or devices are banned from X-COM installations.

4. Excessive fraternization between soldiers is to stop immediately. Barracks will be divided again between male and female sections, including showers.

5. In the interest of maintaining morale, officers are ordered to discourage the use of negative terms like 'clusterfuck', 'FUBAR', 'we're screwed/fucked/dead', 'fucking idiot/coward/asshole/etc.', specially in communications and/or referring to superior officers.

6. In order to preserve alien specimens as much as possible for research, soldiers should strive to kill the aliens with as little damage as possible. Henceforth, the use of high-explosive or incendiary ammunition is forbidden, unless previously authorized by the X-COM commander. It is also forbidden to take trophies from alien bodies and any existing trophies will be delivered to the research labs as quickly as possible.

7. Rumors that the Commander panicked and soiled its armor during last month's terror attack are to cease immediately among the troops, along with the idea that the aliens are still controlling my mind.

 

[Commander Drake was killed shortly afterwards by the detonation of a fragmentation grenade on his quarters. The culprit was never found]

[Hobbes]

[X-COM Data Canister 2301 - Unauthorized Transcript, July 17h, 1999]

 

[First voice]: Commander, the council has found several irregularities on X-COM's financial records that we wish to clarify.

[Commander Reiter]: Fire it away councilman. I think I know what's coming.

[second voice]: Do you, commander? Are you aware that this board of inquiry is strongly considering pressing charges regarding embezzlement and illegal weapons trafficking?

[Reiter] You mean against me? This should be interesting.

[First] I ask everyone not to jump into conclusions for the time being. We are here to determine facts and to decide upon those facts afterwards.

[second] Let's get to the point then - we've looked into your records and there are fund transfers that we cannot trace either their origin or their destination. Furthermore, a visual inspection of your stores revealed that several quantities of weapons and equipment are missing, even though they appear on the records.

[Reiter] And your point is?

[second] (stressed voice) My point, Commander, is that there is only 1 person on this whole organization either capable of issuing the orders for those illegal actions to take place or whose responsability was precisely to ensure that this did not happen! And I'm looking at her right now!"

[Reiter] (yawning sounds) Just as I imagined. All of you were starting to disappoint me, you know?

[Third voice] Commander, you will pay the due respect to this committee or I can ensure you that when you cross that door you'll be out of a job!

[Reiter] I'm guessing you must have been one of the first to notice, councilman Costa. I'm just surprised it took all of you this long to discover, since it's been going on since before I got promoted".

[First] What?

[second] This is outrageous!

[Third] Why didn't you informed us...

[second] Can't you see? This woman is simply making up a story!

[Reiter] All of you, shut up NOW! (metallic sound followed by silence) OK, that's better. To put it short, I discovered the whole operation on my first day as a commander. I considered shutting it down but quite frankly we needed the money, otherwise we wouldn't have made it this far with the crumbs you throw at us!

[second] That's not an excuse for...

[Reiter] For what? Selling excess captured alien technology that we can't use yet and was just being piled up? For using that money to hire replacements and to invest in our bases?

[First] It's not just the financial issue, Commander. You've jeopardized both secrecy and security of this operation by distributing alien technology that was supposed to remain classified and away from the general public.

[Reiter] And I have even more news for you councilman. Yesterday during the counter terror mission on Cairo some of the civilians present thanked us afterwards. People out there know who we are. And so do the aliens.

[second] The impunity. She has admitted practically everything. Lets finish this and start the process of choosing her replacement.

[Reiter] (laugh) Who do you think we sold the weapons?

[First] Why is that relevant now? You're about to be fired and criminally charged.

[Reiter] Well, I've spent the last two days basically contacting several key elements of the scientific and military communities of your countries and informing them that the whole operation is about to be shut down and that I'll be most likely convicted. See, access to alien technology is the ultimate drug for them because of the possibilities it opens and no one wants to be left out. And X-COM is the dealer. And, like any addicts, they will do everything to protect their source. You'll be the ones that most likely will be replaced if you insist with this board.

[Third] You were already expecting to be summoned here...

[Reiter] Yes. And now remove your presence from my base as soon as possible. Captain, please escort this gentlemen to their transport.

[Captain] Right away, sir!

[chiasaur11]

[X-Com data cannister 1344: The “Ultimate Alien”]

 

Thanks to interrogation of captured Gilman officers, we finally have some idea of who or what is directing the alien forces. Like the first war, our enemies seem to have a single commanding intelligence directing the majority of their operations. If we neutralize this one target, our foes will go from a single army to, at most, a handful of directionless Aquatoid and Gilman raiding parties, with the remainder of their forces entirely destroyed.

 

Unfortunately, even if we find the commander of the alien forces, we may not be able to destroy it. Early studies have been discouraging.

 

The exact nature of the creature is obscured by alien myth and folklore, but it is obviously a very powerful psionic entity. What we have called “molecular control” may be a form of brain rewiring intended to make the victims naturally connected to the entity, with temporary subversion being merely a side-effect, eventually turning the victim into a mere channel for the creature’s will. In fact, some studies suggest a certain percentage of humans are naturally in tune with the creature, especially poets and the artistically inclined. Which brings me to the most controversial portion of the report.

 

Historical reports compared to alien interrogations indicate that T’leth came close to waking some time around 1928, and created a brief surge in worldwide psychic activity. Due to a combination of environmental factors, the most influenced area was New England, with an epicenter in Providence.

 

To put it bluntly, sir, we may be fighting Cthulhu. Well, the inspiration for him. It killed our world once. It feels like a joke, but the facts are the facts.

 

I don’t like our chances, but we’ll continue interrogations.

 

 

[X-Com data cannister 1345: Followup report on the “Ultimate Alien” ]

 

I have seen His love. I was wrong. So wrong. I only hope he will forgive me. No. There is no forgiving my crimes against Him.

 

As soon as my confessions are finished, I will pay for my crime. A shame the others have left. Slaying the heretics would be the beginnings of a penance. They are at the door now. Johnson and Anderson and the rest.

 

Johnson, O’Malley, Vincent, they may someday be forgiven, if I can. Their crimes against Him, like mine, were committed in ignorance, and His love may embrace them when it cleanses the world. Rogers and Chen, they know Him and reject Him. Clinging to a criminal’s corpse or science or ‘honor’ when His majesty and strength is offered to all. They betrayed Him, refused His mercy and cannot be forgiven.

 

This is my last report. Commander, cease your crimes against Him. Surrender to His servants. We are chaff before them, and resistance only brings agony.

 

Praise the dweller in T’leth.