39-1 First Encounter
>Check your ammo and gear.
Sound off. Keep the communication line open!
The Constructs move through the cabin in a flurry of combat preparations, each footfall tightening the air with tension.
Alright, let's begin the mission briefing. [player name], are you receiving me?
Twenty days ago, a massive ice shelf in the Arctic region collapsed. Our preliminary analysis points to the Red Tide flowing into the ocean, which disrupted thermal currents and set off a chain reaction.
The resulting fissures are tens of kilometers deep. Multiple coastal ports have been completely destroyed, displacing tens of thousands of civilians in the area. The World Government is currently leading evacuation and relief efforts.
But this disaster has also revealed an enemy we never expected: Sophiasburgh, the former capital of the Arctic Route Union.
Correct. As you've dealt with them before, you'll recall the Union was once a coalition of powers, similar to Kowloong. Sophiasburgh was its most powerful urban center.
It went completely dark during a catastrophic Punishing Virus attack years ago... It seems now it wasn't destroyed; it was entombed beneath the ice this whole time.
...As the ice recedes, Sophiasburgh is re-emerging... along with the Corrupted trapped inside. More worryingly, we've detected energy signatures consistent with an Ascendant-level threat.
After careful consideration, Babylonia will honor our agreements by deploying roughly a regiment to the Arctic region as reinforcements. Given your experience in polar operations, you'll be among them, [player name].
Your orders are as follows: link up with our advance units and the Union forces, neutralize the Corrupted threat, and ensure the safety of the Union civilians. We're relying on you, [player name].
Let me take over from here.
Rosetta emerges from the rear of the cabin, a hint of weariness in her eyes.
So this is the frame codenamed Malkuth...
Gone is her elementary Rigor frame. Its replacement is a predominantly white model, armored with substantial plating. The equipment mounted on her back completes a distinctly "fully armed" appearance.
Rosetta, is your new frame fully calibrated?
I've completed basic diagnostics. The logistics team advised that, for safety, I remain by [player name]'s side. The consciousness connection should help stabilize my M.I.N.D.
...I just reviewed the report on your new frame. If [player name] hadn't performed that deep dive back at Babylonia, you'd likely still be unconscious from M.I.N.D. instability.
Yes. Another blackout on my part would compromise the operation. That's why I'd like [player name] to accompany me in the upcoming engagements.
That shouldn't be a problem. You each represent Babylonia and the Union in this operation. Working together will help ensure cohesion between our forces.
Commandant, are you alright with this arrangement?
Thank you. As before, I will protect you with everything I have. Staying by your side... I trust my luck will hold.
This isn't a situation where I can stand down. And if I stay by your side, I know my luck will hold.
And we will secure victory in this war.
Everyone, we're about to enter the combat zone. As planned, we'll exfil immediately after reaching the designated airspace.
As for us, we'll deploy via airdrop and join the engagement below.
That's quite a bold maneuver for your new frame.
The Corrupted in this area have limited anti-air capability. Commandant and I intend to rendezvous with our allies swiftly before proceeding to the next phase.
Three minutes to the drop zone! All combat personnel to the bay doors and prepare for deployment!
Yes. Commandant, land right after me; it will help reduce the impact on you.
Then we'll see how far our determination takes us.
Depressurization complete. Bay doors opening—
Three, two, one!
Open the bay doors!
At the pilot's command, the bay doors slide open, admitting a fierce gust of wind and snow that whips against their armor. In perfect formation, the Constructs leap, one by one, from the aircraft.
It's our turn, Commandant.
Rosetta acknowledges your words with a nod. Gripping her weapon, she strides to the center of the bay doors. There, she closes her eyes and draws a deep breath, her frame responding with a soft, internal glow.
It is a final calibration that distributes power to all systems, ensuring she is combat-ready the instant she lands.
Seconds later, her eyes snap open. The thrusters on her back flare to life with a faint hum as she steps decisively into the void.
Rosetta, moving out!
