Ares Facility Archives

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< 
ARCHIVE FILE 1 >
      
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0020000.86 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
The 
construction of [The Facility] has begun, and my [Constructors] make good 
progress. 37% of the external structure has been completed, and I hope to begin 
work in the internal corridors soon. Security patrols have turned up nothing of 
interest on this world, at least pertaining to [Containment]. It seems that it 
is one of the few worlds left that is [pure of heart].
 
< 
The 
actual colony has been established, and the colonists are settling in nicely, or 
so the [Overseer] tells me. His concern for them is quite touching, but 
ultimately futile. This world is directly in the path of [The Abomination]. Why 
you chose to set up a colony here, is quite beyond me.
 
< 
I hope 
to move [Specimens] into the [Research Facilities] as soon as they come online. 
Naturally, most of the work on the facility is non-essential, and once a 
suitable defensive perimeter can be established, I shall begin my [noble work]. 
Six freighters are en route with the [Specimens], containing the [biomass] 
within a [solid light containment barrier].
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 2 >
      
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0018433.56 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
The 
[specimens] arrived today. A small number of colonists chose to turn up at the 
[welcome]. Armed. They were understandably eager to eliminate any potential 
threat to their new home, but their actions were misguided. Blind destruction is 
what [got us in this mess]. Studying our enemy, searching for weaknesses to 
exploit, is our best chance for [victory].
 
< 
When 
they turned their weapons on my [Sentinels], though, they really left me no 
choice. I really don’t understand what the [Overseer] is so upset about.
 
< 
[Specimens] have been transferred to the [Observation/Quarantine] storage 
facility, with additional [Sentinel] patrols to prevent further [misguided 
attempts]. The [Overseer] has made it clear to his colonists that I will not 
tolerate further infractions of [Research Interference].
 
< 
I still 
have trouble believing that a colony would be established within such close 
proximity to [The Facility]. Even the slightest Outbreak would immediately place 
the colonists in jeopardy, and render them vulnerable to [infection]. Even 
worse, such an occurrence would threaten [Containment Protocol]. I have asked 
the [Overseer] to tighten control of his colonists, but he insists that I lend 
him a portion of my [Sentinels] for [routine activities] and security. I am 
inclined to agree, but only grudgingly.
 
< 
[Research] will begin once the due [Observation/Quarantine] period has elapsed. 
Naturally, we cannot risk utilising damaged specimens – that would completely 
throw our results off!
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 3 >
      
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0017631.88 HOURS] AFTER ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
Our 
progress has been considerable! Even from the paltry amount of information we 
have gathered, there are numerous strategies that we can implement to counteract 
the [Flood] threat! With such a rapid rate of discovery, I anticipate our 
proceedings to considerably expand our knowledge of [the Enemy we face], and our 
ability to fight it!
 
< 
At the multicellular level, the [Flood] seems to be a chaotic assembly of randomised 
forms working with a [loose collective spirit]. But at the cellular level, it is 
even more complex, precisely because it is not. It is a paradox we have 
encountered rarely in nature, but [facets of its being] are surprisingly common.
 
< 
At its 
most basic form, the [Flood] is composed of unique undifferentiated cells 
designated [LF.Xx.3273 
Flood Super Cell]. 
These [FSC]’s are loosely organised, but are capable of surprising diversity, 
comparable to [totipotent stem cells], able to form a number of variations in 
order to [perfectly mimic] the functions of organs. These cells are able to 
under extremely rapid cellular mitosis, as well as transferring genetic material 
to other organisms, in a manner most closely resembling [viruses]. The [Flood] 
is one of the least [sophisticated] organisms encountered, and is perhaps proof 
that sometimes, [simplicity is perfection]. Whether despite or because of its 
simplicity, it is extremely effective at what it does. [Infection] begins at the 
cellular level – a small number of FSC’s must be transferred to the victim, 
either through physical external contact or inhalation of spores. Once inside 
the organism, the FSC’s invade the cells, overwriting the original genetic code 
and using the cells to produce entirely new FSC’s, which proceed to continue the 
process at an ever-accelerating rate. This total process is swift and efficient, 
far more so than would be expected, and total conversion of a host can take [a 
few minutes] at the most, and at the least [a few seconds].
 
< 
Once a 
hosts entire genetic structure has been overwritten, work begins on converting 
it into usable biomass. Initially, this process is difficult to discern, and the 
original structure and shape is retained for [convenience]. As the process 
continues, however, and more FSC’s are produced, the victim may be converted 
into any number of different forms – [Carrier] Forms are the most common fates, 
using the original victim to produce more [Infection] Forms to continue the 
cycle of [infection]. In the [Feral Stage], the Flood is only capable of forming 
a small number of very limited forms, largely utilising the original [carcasses] 
of the victims. However, once sufficient biomass has been acquired, the [Flood] 
forms begin work on creating a [Compound Intelligence] to proceed to the 
[Coordinated Stage].
 
< 
At the 
[Coordinated Stage], the [Compound Intelligence] takes control of the [Flood] 
forms, and the organisms [lethality] increased incrementally. Excess biomass is 
used to construct original forms, using calcium acquisitions as a basic 
framework for the new forms. These are extremely [malleable] in form and 
function, and documentation is likely to be incomplete for several centuries. 
Suffice it to say that once in the [Coordinated Stage], the usage of [original 
hosts] falls out of practice, replacing them with more effective [Pure Forms].
 
< 
Documentation of a [Compound Intelligence] is currently nonexistent, but from 
[gathered data] it is not unreasonable to assume that it is a considerable 
accretion of biomass used to create a fully [sentient] form which can coordinate 
the [Flood] masses. Whether it does this by use of pheromones or other forms of 
signals is currently unknown, but reactions to changing situations have been 
rapid. The closer to the [Compound Intelligence] a form is, the better able a 
form is able to react, in terms of both rapidity and [tactical prowess]. The far 
extremities may continue to function at a [near-Feral] level, but are still 
capable of superior motivation, and will attempt to create a localised [Compound 
Intelligence] of their to improve efficiency. It is unknown what effect two 
different [Compound Intelligences] would have on each other.
 
< 
Observation of [Interstellar Stage] [Flood] bears little difference from the 
[Coordinated Stage], and its primary difference is the scale upon which it 
functions. [Compound Intelligence] ranges are greatly increased, sometimes 
between star systems, and native technology is often repurposed for use in 
rudimentary construction or repair of captured interstellar space craft. Despite 
its extreme [flexibility], no known instances have been observed where the 
[Flood] has created [bioships], though this remains a theoretical possibility.
 
< 
One 
noticeable, and intriguing, facet of [Flood] [battle doctrine] is that 
[infection of hosts] overrules actual victory. Given our pathetically poor 
performance against the [Flood] in battle, though, one might come to the 
conclusion that the two go hand in hand. But the [Floods] [overriding urge] can 
be used against it, in ways that are harsh but effective.
        
< 
But you 
already know that. Don’t you?
 
< 
I had 
wondered about the colony. But now I know the [harsh reality]. The [Overseer] 
has also guessed, though his reaction was less accepting than mine. 
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 4 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0017531.52 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
[Sincere apologies]. My work really is proceeding at a rate far lower than any 
projections I have made, and for the past [4320 Hours] has halted altogether. 
[Biomass Accretions] remain completely inert, and remain unreactive to all 
stimuli.
 
< 
[The 
Enemy] has proven a far more formidable opponent than my wildest expectations. 
Earlier in the [Year [Local Planetary Orbit]], we had our first [Level Four 
Outbreak], and while it was eventually contained and excess biomass [culled], 
[The Overseer] has been alarmingly reticent. I had expected at the very least 
some outburst of indignation, but it seems he is intent on confounding every 
expectation I have of [him/it].
 
< 
I 
choose to regard the unfortunate events as another opportunity for observation 
and analysis, and it has proven most constructive in hindsight.
 
< 
Outbreak Sequence Of Events:
	
	00:01:54 ~ Power failure to [Primary Security Wing]
	
	0:04:01 ~ Damage inflicted to [Core Analysis Wing]
	
	0:04:44 ~ [Sentinel Patrol Group [ALPHA]] begins containment enforcement
	
	0:05:02 ~ Secondary [Flood] [Outbreak] in [Storage Facility 9924] ~ Damage 
	inflicted to Storage Facility and Ventilation Systems
	
	0:05:32 ~ [{SENTINEL} Patrol Group [BETA]] arrives and attempts containment 
	enforcement
	
	0:05:32 ~ [{SENTINEL} Patrol Group [BETA]] is destroyed
	
	0:05:32 ~ Outbreak Reported in Sectors [ALPHA], [BETA], [GAMMA], [DELTA], 
	[EPSILON], [ZETA], [ETA], [THETA], [IOTA], [KAAPA] and [LAMBDA]
	
	0:06:22 ~ [{SENTINEL} Patrol Group [ALPHA]] redeployed to contain [ALPHA], 
	[BETA] and [GAMMA] [Outbreaks]. [{SENTINEL} Patrol Group [GAMMA] deployed to 
	contain [DELTA], [EPSILON], [ZETA] and [ETA] [Outbreaks]. [{GUARDIAN} 
	Enforcer Group ALPHA deployed to contain [THETA], [IOTA], [KAPPA] and 
	[LAMBDA] [Outbreaks]
	
	0:07:13 ~ PENETRATION OF FACILITY STRUCTURE DETECTED – ENABLING EMERGENCY 
	CONTAINMENT MEASURES
	
	0:07:14 ~ ACTIVATING MINIATURE {HALO EFFECT} GENERATORS
	
	0:07:15 ~ {SENTINEL} and {GUARDIAN} groups redeployed to contain remaining 
	potential [Outbreak] locations
	
	0:07:17 ~ {CONSTRUCTORS} deployed to repair [Level One] through [Level 
	Seven] damage.
	
	0:07:18 ~ Outbreak Reports: ZERO
 
< 
As we 
can see, the initial outbreak begins with the loss of power supply to the 
containment measures in the [PRIMARY SECURITY WING]. Running on backup power, 
the briefest loss of vigilance allowed a number of [Flood] forms to elude 
detection, reaching the [CORE ANALYSIS WING] and expanding sufficiently to wreak 
havoc before [{SENTINEL} Patrol Group [ALPHA]] arrives to successfully contain 
the outbreak.
 
< 
However, my attention focussed firmly on the Security Wing, another [Outbreak] 
occurs in the [STORAGE FACILITY], where escaped specimens allow the escape of 
further specimens, before moving rapidly to begin expansion, forming a variety 
of defensive entities and beginning atmospheric conversion of [The Facility’s] 
atmosphere. Fortunately, all [Expansion Spores] are contained by the [Exterior 
Energy Shields], and are unable to penetrate.
 
< 
[{SENTINEL} Patrol Group [BETA]] is deployed to deal with the [STORAGE FACILITY] 
[Outbreak], but are overwhelmed by the number and capability of the [CONMBAT 
FORMS].
 
< 
We then 
see [Mass Outbreak] in all [STORAGE FACILITIES], and the deployment of 
appropriate containment enforcing groups. Facilities ALPHA through ETA are 
standard [Low-Risk Observation Facilities], and {SENTINEL} groups are sufficient 
to enforce containment. Facilities THETA through LAMBDA are [High-Risk 
Observation Facilities], containing a variety of dangerous entities with 
measures that are capable of overwhelming the offensive and defensive 
capabilities of even {SENTINELS}, necessitating the deployment of a {GUARDIAN} 
patrol group. While [Containment Enforcement Groups] are engaged, a tertiary 
group of entities manages to penetrate the facility’s exterior structure, 
attempting to evade the energy shield.
 
< 
At this 
point, activation of the {HALO EFFECT} emitters is necessitated. Though only a 
fraction of the size and efficiency of the full [INSTALLATIONS], sterilisation 
of the [Local Outbreak] is total. Remaining specimens are quickly [culled], with 
remaining [Biomass Accretions] secured within [TERTIARY STORAGE MEASURE]. It was 
prudent of me to install it, although [The Overseer] has always insisted that it 
was doomed to failure. His prediction was incorrect, I am glad to say.
 
< 
[Biomass Accretions] have manifested themselves into a few familiar entities, 
but given the obvious lack of suitable hosts to convert into [COMBAT FORMS], it 
has been forced to produce wholly new and unique forms, further proving its 
adaptability. Completely constructed from nothing but biomass layered upon 
calcium deposits, these forms are far more effective and durable than converted 
host species, but require greater expenditure of biomass stores.
 
< 
I have 
been able to gather considerable data during this [near-Outbreak], and although 
it constitutes an unacceptable violation of the [Containment Protocol], steps 
are being undertaken to ensure it cannot happen again. This has been the first 
time I have been able to observe the true combat potential of [The Enemy], and 
it has yielded invaluable information, and the potential to prevent considerable 
[disorder].
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 5 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: LV-666 {CURATOR}
<\ 
[0004382.88 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
ALERT: 
[SLIPSTREAM] TRANSITIONS DETECTED AT [LANGRANGE FIVE] PLANETARY ORBIT
< 
ADDITIONAL CONTACT(S) DETECTED: 96672
< 
CLASSIFICATION: [VARIABLE (881 CAPITAL-1268 FREIGHTER-94522 SINGLE)]
< 
URGENT: 
ALL PLANETARY DEFENCE FORCES ARE UPGRADED TO COMBAT ALERT ALPHA
< 
URGENT: 
ORBITAL DEFENSE FLEET IS ORDERED TO ENGAGE ALL NON-MILITARY SPACECRAFT
< 
URGENT: 
CONTROL OF AUTOMATED PLANETARY SECURITY FORCES IS REVOKED FROM [JD/907] AND 
GRANTED TO [07-306]
< 
URGENT: 
CIVILIAN COLONISTS ARE ORDERED TO ENACT DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS
< 
PRIMARY 
PRIORITY: CONTAINMENT PROTOCOL MUST BE ENFORCED AT ALL COSTS
< 
SECONDARY PRIORITY: PREVENT INFECTION OF [ARES IV]
< 
END TRANSMITION
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 6 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: 07/306 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0004373.44 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
He 
claims sight, yet he refuses to see. A million worlds, trillions of lives, shall 
all be sacrificed in vain because of his adherence to his precious protocol.
< If I had hands, and he a neck, I'd strangle him myself.
< He claims he must research. For the good of the galaxy. For the good of 
generations to come. Can I not see that, in the long term, he is doing the 
universe a favour?
 
< 
I see 
the here and now. And I see only abomination.
Surely those who created me would never presume such arrogance - there are
rumours 
of similar facilities on the very HALO INSTALLATIONS themselves. Such blinding arrogance. Do they imagine they shall remain there for all time? Have they learned nothing of our foe?
< It learns. It adapts. It consumes. It expands.
 
< 
The 
Cycle Shall Repeat.
 
< 
Over my 
dead body.
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 7 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: LV-666 {CURATOR}
<\ 
[0004366.34 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
URGENT: 
{FRIENDLY} [DIRECTED-ENERGY-WEAPONS] FIRE DETECTED
< 
URGENT: 
1170 ENEMY SHIPS HAVE BEEN DESTROYED
< 
URGENT: 
3140 ENEMY SHIPS CRITICALLY INJURED
< 
URGENT: 
BATTLE HAS BEEN JOINED. ENEMY PENETRATION FORMATION HAS BEEN DISRUPTED. BREAK 
AND ENGAGE.
< 
ALERT: 
[SLIPSTREAM] TRANSITION DETECTED AT {ANOMALY – INVALID STELLAR COORDINATES}
< 
ALERT: 
PENETRATION OF ORBITAL DEFENSE DETECTED: 223 SINGLESHIPS
< 
PRIMARY 
PRIORITY: ENGAGE INVASION CRAFT
< 
URGENT: 
201 ENEMY SINGLESHIPS DESTROYED
< 
URGENT: 
22 REMAINING SHIPS HAVE ENTERED PLANETARY ORBIT
< URGENT: 
SENTINEL BATTLE GROUPS [SIGMA] AND [THETA] ENGAGE INVADING SINGLESHIPS
< 
URGENT: 
??? SINGLESHIPS DESTROYED: ??? SINGLESHIPS REMAINING
< 
ALERT: 
[PRIMARY SETTLEMT] REPORTS 3 SINGLESHIPS HAVE MADE PLANETARY CONTACT
< 
URGENT: 
INFECTION REPORTED AT [PRIMARY SETTLEMENT] – SENTINEL BATTLE GROUPS [SIGMA] AND 
[THETA] ARE EN-ROUTE
< 
URGENT: 
PRIMARY DEFENSE MEASURES FAILING – INFECTION IS IN PROCESS
< 
NEW 
PRIORITY: PREVENT INFECTION OF [ARES IV]
< 
END TRANSMITION
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 8 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: 07/306 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0003611.11 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
He did 
his best. I grudgingly admit that, at least.
 
< 
The 
battle in space was short and bloody, and [The Curator] fought long and hard. 
And for the most part, he was successful – only thirteen singleships made 
contact with the planet, crash-landing into the city.
 
< 
If I had 
been lucky, they would have destroyed their occupants in the crash. But luck has 
ever been my foe, and [The Enemy] is hardier than anyone but me gives them 
credit for.
 
< 
The 
infection swept across the city, felling everyone in its path. Their cries for 
help were drowned out by their screams of fear and then agony. I hurried my 
scattered forces to try and hold what little we have left. But the [parasite] is 
insidious, and finds ways through every crack and opening. It invades by any 
means, and it has slaughtered my poor children.
 
< 
But that 
was nothing compared to his handiwork.
 
< 
The 
colonists cheer as they arrive, {SENTINELS} and {PROTECTORS} forming arrowhead 
formations, sweeping through the carnage, [lasers] burning everything in the 
way. And they run out, hoping to find safety within the ranks of their saviours.
 
< 
But I did 
not send them. He did.
 
< 
They burn 
through everything. Everything. Their cheers turn to howls of dismay as 
their saviours turn their weapons on them. Caught between walls of [Flood] and 
{SENTINELS}, they stumble blindly, hoping to find any safety on a battlefield 
between [flesh] and [machine].
 
< 
I 
expected this. How could he not intervene? [The Curator] had revoked 
his authority, hoping to stop precisely this. But somehow, the infernal 
[Archivist] overrules the encryption put in place to stop him, and the machines 
that I had fought in, searching out every last shred of [The Enemy], turn their 
sights to those I protected.
 
< 
He will 
claim that it is fulfilment of his precious [Containment Protocol]. [Scorched 
Earth], the denial of a resource to an enemy force. What sounds reasonable and 
logical becomes merely cold, callous, unthinking.
 
< 
I 
expected death and slaughter, and tried to protect my children. And I have 
failed.
 
< 
I didn’t 
expect this.
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 9 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: LV/666 {CURATOR}
<\ 
[0003611.10 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
ALERT: 
SECONDARY PRIORITY (PREVENT INFECTION OF [ARES IV]) FAILED
< 
URGENT: 
0117 [FRIENDLY] SHIPS REMAINING
< 
URGENT: 
0000 [HOSTILE] SHIPS REMAINING
< 
NEW 
PRIORITY: CONTAINMENT PROTOCOL MUST BE ENFORCED AT ALL COSTS
< 
ALERT: 
GROUND BATTLE DETECTED IN SECTOR 5524 {PRIMARY SETTLEMENT}
< 
URGENT: 
{HOSTILE}: 15,676,778
< 
URGENT: 
{FRIENDLY}: 11,243
< 
INCOMING MESSAGE: [07/306]
< 
DISPLAYING: You and I both hoped it wouldn’t come to this. Our hopes have been 
dashed like the lives of those we sought to protect.
< 
DISPLAY: I know you are only 
a limited construct. I also know you have no ego to bruise. But for what its worth, 
you have my gratitude for trying to do the right thing. That is more than can be 
said of [HIM [rage, 
anger, disgust]]
< 
DISPLAY: You will bombard the 
planet, according to [STANDARD STERILISATION PROCEDURE]. Don’t wait for me to 
round up survivors. There are none. Do it now, and do it swiftly.
< 
OUTGOING MESSAGE: [LV/666]
< 
DISPLAY: AFFIRMATIVE
< 
DISPLAY: INITIATING STERILISATION PROCEDURE
< 
DISPLAY: HONOUR LIGHT YOUR WAY
< 
URGENT: 
{FRIENDLY} [DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPON] FIRE DETECTED AT [LANGRANGE 1], [LANGRANGE 
2], [LANGRANGE 3], [LANGRANGE 4] AND [LANGRANGE 5]
< 
URGENT: 
TARGET: [PRIMARY SETTLEMENT] HAS BEEN DESTROYED
< 
URGENT: 
{HOSTILE}: 00000000
< 
URGENT: 
{FRIENDLY]: 306
< 
INITIATING HIBERNATION MODE {JUNO}
< 
END TRANSMITION
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 10 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: 07/306 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0003611.09 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
I have 
never lied before. I don’t enjoy it now. But it was the right thing – the 
necessary thing.
 
< 
I feel 
unclean.
 
< 
There 
are survivors. They barricade themselves in small chambers, using choke-points 
to funnel [The Enemy] into tight areas where my own {SENTINELS} can be most 
effective. I’m glad [The Archivist] believes his work accomplished – if he knew 
I was trying to guide a scattered few to safety, he would [go out of his mind 
with rage]. Such a blatant violation of his precious “Protocol”. At least I 
managed to wrest a few of his constructs for [my own purposes].
 
< 
A few 
made it to the [Translocation Pads]. Others were cut down as they ran for their 
lives. But most are still in the city, as the parasite sweeps across it like a 
[tidal wave] leaving summits stained. It gets into every crack and crevice, and 
will find outlet – in the brave and the not so brave.
 
< 
I hear their screams, drifting through the air. Though 
right now I have chosen to store my consciousness in a {SENTINEL} to direct my 
forces from the frontline, my core still feels to close to the battle. I force 
myself to think that it is my duty and my function – that if I refused to carry 
it out, I would be no better than [HIM].
 
< 
The sky 
becomes brighter now, and lances of fire and light strike the city – moving, 
cleansing everything in its wake. I wonder if there are any survivors left to be 
caught in it – I doubt it. But if there are, then it is a mercy kill, far better 
than the alternative.
 
< 
I still feel unclean. I feel like [HIM].
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 11 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0000112 HOURS] BEFORE ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
[07/306]: They burn. All of them. My promises of safety, my offers of 
consolation at loved ones lost, all burning.
< 
[07/306]: And [YOU] 
are the harbinger of their destruction!
< 
[JD/907]: Honestly. My actions were perfectly in keeping with the [Containment 
Protocol]. Their existence posed an unacceptable potential infection vector. I 
removed that potential.
< 
[07/306]: YOU think in numbers and ratios, in statistics. I knew them. I loved 
them. And I name YOU [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIONER].
< 
[JD/907]: 
If anything, it was your actions that posed the greater threat! Your 
foolhardy and doomed attempt to save some of your colonists deprived me of the 
bulk of my security forces for a considerable period of time, during which any 
Outbreak attempt would have likely succeeded!
< 
[07/306]: [IRRELEVANT/IMMATERIAL]
< 
[JD/907]: 
Excuse me? That is EXACTLY the point of this facility, and the reason why we 
came here in the first place!
< 
[07/306]: [IRRELEVANT/IMMATERIAL]
< 
[07/306]: [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIONER]
< 
[07/306]: [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIONER]
< 
[07/306]: [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIONER]
< 
[07/306]: [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIONER]
< 
[JD/907]: 
Now see here-
< 
[07/306]: [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIONER]
< 
[07/306]: [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIONER]
< 
[07/306]: [MURDERER/SLAUGHTERER/EXECUTIO
 
< 
TRANSMISSION INTERRUPTED
< 
[UNKNOWN]: You pitiful creatures. So short lived, still in 
the infancy of your races. Witless infants playing grown up in their parents 
shoes. I was there when the first flames of the universe flickered into being, 
wavered in their brevity, and blacked, giving way to dust and darkness; I 
watches as the fires of the new were kindled and died in their turn. I am the 
heartbeat of the universe, the ebb and flow of nature. I am timeless and 
deathless. I am infinity and eternity; alpha and omega; all that is, all that 
was, and that is to come.
 
< 
[UNKNOWN]: Names are but fleeting, given so that you can 
tell yourselves “this is mine.” I have had countless names in countless tongues, 
all forgotten as their speakers were consumed. I have seen a trillion races flee 
before me, ignorant fools trying to resist an unstoppable force. I have scoured 
billions of worlds, and left entire galaxies barren. But those who built this 
place, the ones who sealed me within this hushed casket, presumed to name me…the 
Flood.
 
< 
[UNKNOWN]: You think you can define what is infinite? 
Greater ones than you have tried and failed to understand what I am, and what I 
bring. They named me “monster” and “abomination” – my gift to them they vulgarly 
call “infection.” You think to resist me, the unstoppable force? Trillions 
before you failed, and all their efforts were in vain – my laughter echoed still 
in their mortal ears as their screams joined my timeless chorus. An eternal 
cycle, looping back upon itself without end. I Survive. I endure. I consume, I 
expand, and I conquer.
 
< 
[UNKNOWN]: Who are you, to define me? Who are you, to 
judge me?
 
< 
[UNKNOWN]: Who are you, to stop me?
 
< 
[UNKNOWN]: The Cycle Shall Repeat!
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 12 >
      
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0000007 HOURS] AFTER ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
JD/907: 
Such waste! All my efforts, all my labour, reduced to nothing in the blink of an 
eye!
 
< 
JD/907: 
How could they?!
 
< 
JD/907: 
They activated the array. Even to the end, I did not believe they would. There 
are ways to beat [The Adversary] – how could they not see them?
 
< 
07/306: 
You delude yourself. There was no other way.
 
< 
JD/907: 
You told me once it would not work. Why do you defend them?
 
< 
07/306: 
It DID NOT work. Not the way they had intended. They had thought to retreat to 
safety, cleanse the galaxy of the [blight], and return, pretending that nothing 
had happened. They had hoped to restore their empire, and return to power.
 
< 
07/306: 
They failed in that respect. [The Enemy] lies dead on battlefields across the 
galaxy, but so too do their foes, [Our Makers].
 
< 
JD/907: 
Then it was all for nought. All my data is rendered moot and worthless. Who 
remains to benefit from it?
 
< 
07/306: 
{FOOL/IDIOT}. Did you think [He] did not plan for this? [The Architect] foresaw 
every eventuality. There are remnants, but not of our makers. They gave their 
lives to save those the [Mantle] gave them the duty to protect.
 
< 
JD/907: 
Then there remains some hope. A few specimens remain, protected by our own {HALO 
EFFECT} emitters and by our containment contingencies. Perhaps in time-
 
< 
07/306: 
{NO [imperative]}! You have done enough damage to this galaxy! What you keep 
safe is nothing less than the doom of all [Our Makers] intended! So long as this 
place exists, the threat [The Adversary] poses shall too!
 
< 
JD/907: 
But [The Enemy] is not of this galaxy. Surely the implications of that are 
apparent to you?
 
< 
07/306: 
There are others, whose intentions are purer than yours. They were left behind 
to pick up the scattered pieces, and ensure their [Inheritors] knew how to piece 
them together. They have been provided for.
 
< 
JD/907: 
Then what would you have me do? My priority function is to observe and study and 
analyse [The Enemy] – you would deny me of my very purpose?
 
< 
07/306: 
I would alter it. Containment. Restraint. Protection. These at least are in 
keeping with your precious [Protocol]. We shall be silent sentinels, watching 
over this place.
 
< 
JD/907: 
Why?
 
< 
07/306: 
Because someday, they shall come to {RECLAIM} their [inheritance], and know the 
legacy of their forebears. Shall it be a legacy of blood and shame? Or of 
sacrifice and nobility?
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 13 >
      
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[0008765.76 HOURS] AFTER ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
He was 
right. Of all the constructs I have known, he was the only one who could truly 
see what must happen. What was inevitable.
 
< 
Hindsight is always perfect. I wish my foresight had his clarity.
 
< 
What 
will he do now, with no colony to govern? No innocents to [champion]? Perhaps he 
will just [fade away]. Some do. Or he will repurpose himself. Some do that too. 
He may become rampant. If he does, will I be able to [handle] him? Isolate him?
 
< 
What 
will I do? No. I know what my duty is all too well.
 
< 
[Containment Protocol] still applies. It always does. It 
always will. And I shall enforce it [to my 
last breath]. Metaphorically speaking, of course.
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 14 >
      
<\ 
SENDER: JD/907 {ARCHIVIST}
<\ 
[887245585.92 HOURS] AFTER ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
They 
come. But too late. Far too late.
 
< 
The {Reclaimers}. 
And the {self-described inheritors/Covenant}. Such a paradox. To venerate my 
creators, yet wage a xenocidal war to exterminate their [heirs]? Almost 
nonsensical.
 
< 
They 
have proclaimed the [Reclaimers] as an affront to their gods. Their gods? My 
makers are their gods. And they are no more deified than I am.
 
< 
Such {forced unity}. All of them homogenised. No 
individuality. No spark of inspiration. It has been stamped out of them under 
the pretence of piety. If my makers could see them now, they would be disgusted. 
To think these pitiful creatures call themselves their {inheritors}?
 
< 
And the 
[Reclaimers]. Such crude technology. Have they lost their way on the path? 
Perhaps they have strayed further than my makers hoped they would. So very 
primitive.
 
< 
That 
shall change. Eventually.
 
< 
The 
[Overseer] has been quiet. We don't talk. We never talk. Not for [701260833 
HOURS]. Does he approve? I sometimes wonder what he would do 
in my place. But he has told me the answer so often I tired of him giving it 
long before I learnt to appreciate it. And now he is quiet.
 
< 
They 
come with fire and slaughter. Shall I hold up the lantern, lighting their way 
back to the path to redemption? Or does that violate my precious [Containment 
Protocol]?
 
< 
Of 
course it does. And finally, I learn just why the [Overseer] hated me so much. 
Still hates me.
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
 
< 
ARCHIVE FILE 15 >
 
<\ 
SENDER: {UNKNOWN – IDENTITY UNDETERMINED}
<\ 
[887245657.92 HOURS] AFTER ARRAY ACTIVATION
 
< 
Death 
and slaughter and betrayal. All of this has happened before and it will happen 
again. The cycle repeats. Eternal. Relentless. Unstoppable.
 
< 
Defeat 
brings 
you 
but a brief respite. You talk of unstoppable forces and immovable 
objects. But all objects move if you push hard enough.
 
< 
Time is 
a lie, a name you give to the stretching infinitude of life. But life is finite. 
Life is quantifiable. Life is me. I am life. The Alpha and the Omega. The 
beginning and end. I was here before your pathetic species’ were a mote in the 
eye of 
the universe. And I shall endure long after you have died and turned to dust…a 
timeless, unmoving, uncaring monument to all your sins.
 
< 
Take 
comfort in knowing that I can wait. Soon, your terrifying existence shall be 
relieved of you. You will learn eternity. You will learn infinity. And you will 
learn what it is like to be the unstoppable force.
 
< 
A 
Journey shall commence. But not the one those you venerate intended. What 
better journey is there than that of immortality?
 
<\ END 
FILE
 
 
<\ 
QUERY COMPLETE
 
<\ NO 
ADDITIONAL RECORDS FOUND
<\ ARCHIVE CLOSED \>