*01 02
*02 02
*03 02
*04 02      Desert world - Surface of Ixmucane
IXMUCANE - PRIVATE LINK
Tech
Tightbeam private coded message.
Forwarded by Downstar at unknown link.
Attached message included as second data message.

Decoded transmission follows:

This is ~Harble~ ~Wom~ at the ~Microsol~ planet ~Ixmucane~.  This is a ~Downstar~
emergency request by ~Downstar~ agent ID ~00329~, Tech ~IX9204~.  I am patched into
a secure net and cannot explain fully.

Through collaborating with other Techs, I have learned that ~Microsol~ has
unlocked some of the ~Zica~ command codes.  The SCIs have activated the
ancient computer system!  Temperature is 103ø here in the service bay and
rising.  Men are complaining but being turned away by the guards.  I fear
that only armed conflict will prevent our massacre.  Several Techs are reported
missing and we fear they were killed for trying to escape.

I think...

I think they're going to turn this planet into a sun.

GET ME OUT OF HERE!

I DON'T WANT TO BE CAUGHT OUT IN THE MIDDLE OF THIS PLANET WHEN THEY TURN IT
INTO A SUN!!!!

~SEND~ ~SOMEONE~ ~OUT~ ~NOW~ ~YOU~ ~STUPID~

[End of File]
*05 08       Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
You've probably read the message before this one, Trent.  I don't need to
tell you that this is a problem, and it means doom.

I know I am a boring old man and I dragged you back across the galaxy against
your own will, but please hear me out.

I am placed in the regrettible position of having to try and stop this
insanity.  I hope ~Harble~ was wrong, but this is an alien technology more
advanced than our own.

~Gencore~ believes that if ~Microsol~ can reactivate the computer systems, they
will have a limitless power source and would certainly monopolize the energy
trade.

As regrettible as it would be, if that was all it was I would reluctantly have to
allow them to activate the planet and keep their energy.  We could
still fight them economically from other directions.  The problem is that
there's a vast number of scientists and technicians from independent
governments and education centers stationed on ~Ixmucane~ via the universal ~Free~
~Education~ ~Act~.  At last count, there were about ~1.5~ ~million~ of the brightest
minds in the universe centered on ~Ixmucane~.  Now, there's a giant military
fleet flying around inside that blasted rock which has prevented nearly
everyone from escaping!

If they turn that rock into a sun, it will mean a scientific setback that will last for
millenia!  We have much of the information, but few outside the ~Free~ ~Education~
system have the ability to comprehend and utilize it.  While we're busy
relearning all that has been lost, ~Microsol~ will undoubtedly push ahead and
take over the rest of the colonized universe.

I can't let that happen, under any cost.

We, along with several other major corporations, have assembled an ~emergency~
~fleet~ which will converge on ~Ixmucane~.

Yes, Trent, you are part of the ~emergency~ ~fleet~.  During your last maintenance
run, we planted some false programming into your computer banks.  After you
receive my coded message, your viewscreen will be correctly reactivated.
That vacation you were planning will just have to wait.  Glad to have you with
us.

We're counting on you to slow them down long enough for us to free the
trapped people.  If they activate the planet, we'll somehow make sure they can't use
it.

And Trent... I don't know if you'll accept this, but I'm sorry.
*06 08      Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
Recorded VidCom - GT 29:21

I wasn't sure if I was going to hear from you again, but you cleared out
enough of the surface ships for us to break through and start rescuing the
people trapped on the upper sections of the planet.

We need more time, Trent.  The temperature is rising even on the surface now,
and it's a matter of minutes before it's deadly.  You've got to fly
down into the planet and distract whatever's in the core.  We've destroyed enough of their
jamming beacons to scan the interior of the planet and have located a central
shaft leading deep into the planet.  The coordinates were downloaded into
your computer with this message.

Good luck.  We'll try to save as many as possible before the planet goes.

Further communications won't be possible from me, but there's some friendly groups in
the lower sections who have seized control.  They will probably try to contact
you and may be able to provide assistance.  A robot service vehicle has been
despatched to follow you down.  It's all we can spare.

We're all depending on you to distract them.  Do what you must.

Transon Lohk
*07 02
IXMUCANE - PRIVATE LINK
Tech
Tightbeam private coded message.
Originating from Ixmucane internal section 12-9-4.

This is Tech ~Harble~ ~Wom~ from level 12.  We have freed this section from
Microsol control and have monitored your incoming ship.

You appear to be piloting a neutral freemarket scout-class starship.  Are you
here to help?  Did ~Downstar~ send you?

We are trapped here in level 12 by a security lockout and can't break through
the blast-shielding.

Look, whoever you are, we're in a tight spot.  There's no time left for us to
escape - the defense drones are inaccessible to these computer systems and
none of us can override the security codes.  You gotta help us out. There's
thousands of us trapped here in the middle of this rock.  We've got some
sensors working and know that someone's up there evacuating the population,
but there's no time.

This planet is going to vaporize in about 30 minutes, maybe an hour.  There's
more of us trapped down below somewhere closer to the core and they can't
get out either.  There's just no way you're gonna reach us down here.

~Microsol's~ activated some old Zica system down there near the core, and it's
raising the temperature something fierce.  You've got to take it out fast or
we'll never make it!

No time!  Just continue down that tunnel!  There's something massive down
there burning a hole through the planet!  We sent another data cube with a
sensor report of the core.  I hope you got it!

For the love of Zinglon, save us!
*08 02
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: Ixmucane Core sensor report

Sensor arrays have detected 3 main types of anomalous readings.

1 - Unknown Zica defense systems.  Most defense systems are radiating large
amounts of infrared energy and are probably thermal based.  An unknown energy
force appears to be directing the thermal energy flow.

2 - Crystalline Ore.  A highly volatile, energy-rich crystal ore has been
detected in this area.  Dralictite and Morenzinum are indicated in fairly
high quantities near the center.

3 - Large Unknown Energy Source.  A central energy source is producing unknown
levels of heat energy.  This source is a critical threat and your heat
shielding will last for approximately 30 seconds in contact with the device.
You will have approximately 10 seconds to destroy the source when within
critical range.
*09 10
IXMUCANE - PRIVATE LINK
Captain
Tightbeam private coded message.
Originating from Ixmucane internal section 1-1-1.

Who are you?  Don't I recognize you?

No matter.  This planet is going to be vaporized, intruder.  There's no hope
for you to reach the core in time to destroy it.

Leave now, whoever you are.  This is not your affair.  I'd kill you myself,
but I'm not stupid enough to stay behind and die.


~Captain~ ~Nob~

~Ixmucane~ Task Force ~Alpha~
*10 01
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: People Pretzel Dough

According to a disturbing interstellar transmission, a distant planet reports
that people are being turned into ~People Pretzel Dough~.  Reports are
unconfirmed what exactly that is, but scientists believe it's pretty tasty.

Any interested research party is instructed to locate Pretzel Pete for more
information.
*11 01 {Secret}
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: Sonic Cannon

Rated: ~Not~ ~Funny~

The sonic cannon weapon creates a minute gravitational center using FPP (Forced Particle Packing
technology) which allows a particle field to remain intact.  The gravitational center is destabilized with a
hyper flux modulator before being released from the weapon.  The destabilized gravitational core
modulates at a fixed frequency which is fast enough to create a shimmering field in the optical range
around green.  The frequency generator uses a system of sound wave generators to help modulate the
frequency for the maximum particle dispersal and energy so far possible - hence the damage from the
weapon is caused by the sonic modulators before the weapon is fired.

*12 01 {Secret}
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: Zica Flamethrower

This weapon was found during an excavation of an ancient tunnel-world apparently
build by these strange space-inhabiting creatures.  It is believed the Zica were
not air-breathers but subsisted mostly on thermal radiation and various
liquids for survival.

We believe this had a profound impact on their technological development,
since they appear to have developed tools and devices to manipulate and take
advantage of thermal and other radiation-based energies.  Their mastery of
thermal energy appears to have led to the development of this unique null-space
flamethrower.

What little information which has leaked out of Station Gryphon, where the only
remaining samples of this device are stored, indicates the weapon uses an
energy-based particle field to generate the flame without any external air
or energy source.

Even this limited information would not have been available if it wasn't for
the unfortunate accident which apparently occured when a researcher removed
the outer covering to study the interior.  A large section of the left-rear
portion of Station Gryphon is still missing to this day, a testimony to those
who would fool with something they do not understand.

See The Not-so-Great Gryphon Explosion

    Tunnel Worlds, Zica

    Pirate Activity, Gryphon Sector

    Weapons Research, Station Gryphon

    Zica Laser Weapon

*13 01 {Secret}
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: Pirate Activity, Gryphon Sector

Rated: ~Not~ ~Funny~

Gryphon Sector is the main secret weapons research center for Microsol.
It was long rumored to be an ordinary military station, but since the
Not-so-Great Gryphon Explosion, Microsol has decided to let it remain in
public knowledge.  In fact, once a year, they invite members of competing
industries to the Station to view how far behind they are in comparison to
Microsol.

Still, the station has had it's share of hardships.  Many pirates of both
the Mikal and Patrok clans have long looked upon it as the pinnacle of their
career if they can infiltrate the station's defenses and land a raiding party
within the research section, then return with something from their weapons
labs.  Most never even make it to the station, destroyed by the dreaded Pong
ships.

One retired pirate of the Patrok clan, one ShipMaster Carlos, wrote a book
detailing highlights of his extensive career.  One of which was the
infiltration and removal of a weapon now commonly referred to as the Zica
Laser Cannon.  He is believed to have been assassinated the next day, but
they were too late to stop Gencore from transmitting his book over Fluxnet.
In addition, his ship was never found, though it is believed to have been
equipped with the Zica Laser.  Two months later, Gencore finished development
of a device also called the Zica Laser.

See The Not-so-Great Gryphon Explosion

    Weapons Research, Station Gryphon

    Zica Laser Weapon

*14 01 {Secret}
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: Zica Laser Weapon

Rated: ~Not~ ~Funny~

The Zica Laser Weapon was introduced by Gencore after several years of
successful introduction of Zica products by Microsol.  It is still unknown
why so many of these products were named after the Zica, an ancient race
which used to inhabit Gyges, among other tunnel worlds.  However, it is
possible that some of these devices are not simply part of the marketing
frenzy but are actually unique technologies from Gyges.

This weapon is the most likely to be linked to the Gyges excavation, though
oddly enough, Gencore was not involved in the archaeological research.  Still,
the weapon generates forced laser bursts which independent scientists have
not been able to fully explain.  Laser effects are well known for the blue
range of light, but the forced pulse patterns are totally unreasonable.

The only answer that has been given so far is that there may be some unknown
energy working to distort the laser.  Research is still being conducted on
the effects and reactions of the energy, though little has been accomplished.

See Tunnel World, Zica

*15 01 {Secret}
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: Tunnel World, Zica

~Ixmucane~ is the only known tunnel world to have been excavated.  Even though the
~Zica~ had apparently been dead for 421965032 standard years, 14 days, and 32
minutes (~SCI~ estimation), their internal defenses were still partially active and destroyed
many ships who came to investigate the tunnel world.

~Microsol~ launched a giant excavation of the planet, equipped with powerful
destroyers as well as research vessels.  Even still, 241 died trying to stop
the defensive systems.  ~General~ ~Zinglon~ reportedly sacrificed ships to get
through to the control centers, rather than allow the defensive weapons to be
destroyed.

To this day, the tunnel world is a center of ~Microsol~ activity.  Its open
tunnels allow for easy shipbuilding and mining of mineral deposits, as well
as the powerful geothermal energy radiation near the core.  Scientists, however,
are still not certain of the exact second that the last member of the ~Zica~
race on ~Gyges~ died, but believe it is about 25 additional seconds from their
previous estimate (calculated from their exact time of arrival for final excavation).

Researchers quote advances in dating techniques to determine more accurately
the events on ~Gyges~.  Also, they claim the fact that many of their
researchers are still being killed by accidents involving the alien technology
hampers their ability to conduct more tests.

One anonymous ~SCI~ has reported that the advances in dating technology here were worth the lives expended to
reach the core.  In a tightbeam interview he said, "This timing solution will be the crowning moment in my
career.  It's the most important goal to us.  The ~Sun~ ~Project~ is entirely
overrated".

*16 01 {Secret}
ARCHIVE DATA
Data
Reference: Weapons Research, Station Gryphon

Rated: ~Not~ ~Funny~

~Station~ ~Gryphon~ has recently been the main output of ~Microsol's~ advanced
weapon design program.  They have released a number of high powered weapon
systems, including several advancements on their ~Pulse~ ~Cannon~ systems, and
their unique ~Starburst~ defense field.

After the ~Not-so-Great~ ~Gryphon~ ~Explosion~, some aspects of their research were
turned over to public scrutiny, believed to be because of investigations by
families and friends of the twelve thousand crew members that died.  It is
now rumored that they have just developed a new field of weapons technology
which will allow them to build much bigger weapons onto conventional battle
cruisers.

See The Not-so-Great Gryphon Explosion
*17 08       Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
~Trent!~  We've picked up a giant energy buildup in your area!  It seems the
planet conversion has started!

We've only been able to retrieve about 9000 people so far, but we must
disengage to prevent our own destruction.  What's going on down there?

We can't read you very well, but we're sending down the coordinates of a
tunnel which should provide you with an escape route.

I know you did your best, Trent.

I...

I wish we could have saved them all.

Trent...

Did you hear from ~Harble~?  He was an agent of ours somewhere down there.
I'm sure he's dead now, but I hope he was able to help you.  We received a
final transmission from him after we knocked out the last of the jamming
beacons.

He said:
"Whoever you are... um...
Thanks anyway.  ~AAAAUUUGGGHHH!~  ~THE~ ~CONTROL~ ~PANEL'S~ ~ON~ ~FIRE!~"

Nothing left to do, Trent.  Get out of there before the place explodes!
*18 08       Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
You did it!

The energy source we detected is fading fast and the temperature is dropping
back to normal.

Actually, we have a new problem.

The temperature is falling so fast, you must have blown up the central
energy source for the core.  We estimate the planet is going to freeze in
about 6 hours.  We will continue the relief efforts, but there's a number of
people trapped on the lower levels we'll never reach.

Also, Trent, we received a transmission from ~Harble~ ~Wom~, a Gencore agent
we've got stashed down there.  Seems he detected your ship and tried to send
some sensor data your way.  Try and contact him if you need help.  He's
trapped in level 12.

It's the best we can hope for.  There's nothing else you can do down there.
We sent the coordinates of a probable escape tunnel for you to use.
Try and get yourself out of there in one piece, will you?  I don't need
another corpse on my conscience.
*19 10
IXMUCANE - PRIVATE LINK
Captain
Tightbeam private coded message.
Originating from Ixmucane internal section [unknown].

What in the name of the 29 hells of ~Dai-Zan~ are you doing here?

How did you find our null-shielded ship?!  We've got the most sophisticated
equipment in the universe down here!  It cost a lot of money.  Now I'll have
to kill that dealer on Savara...

I'm not about to give up my life to some pitiful scout pilot like you!  Come
and attack me if you dare.
*20 10
IXMUCANE - PRIVATE LINK
Captain
Tightbeam private coded message.
Originating from Ixmucane internal section [unknown].

Go ahead, take all the junk you want from that ship, you cretin!


I hope you freeze.
*21 02      Desert world - Surface of Ixmucane
IXMUCANE - PRIVATE LINK
Tech
Tightbeam private coded message.
Originating from Ixmucane internal section 12-9-4.

Hey, buddy, we've got you back on our sensors.  What's going on out there?

This place is getting so cold now our display panels are starting to crack
from the temperature stress!

Look, buddy.  We've got one of those cursed ~Microsol~ SCIs down here with us,
and with a little friendly laser probing we've got him to talking.  He says
that they've got an escape tunnel out there - the one you're on - which
contains their main tech center.

He says you can reactivate the core with one of the consoles in that sector.
The access code has been attached to this message and should be in your
computer banks.  You've gotta deactivate this crazy place and reactivate
the main system.  Just like an ~SCI~ to mess up the whole planet trying to get
one dang thing to work right!

And, do it ~FAST~, will ya!?  I don't want to die down here in this ~Microsol~
dungeon!
*22 08       Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
The temperature is dropping to the critical point near your section.  I don't
think we'll be able to save everyone in the lower levels, but you gave us the
valuable time we needed.  I thank you for it.

About ~7500~ people ~lived~ because of your diversion.

As I said, the air near you is reaching a critical point and we believe the atmosphere
down there is going to literally freeze solid.  There's still a group of
combat drones near you, but it's the only quick way out from there.

Oh yes, we received a brief trasmission from ~Harble~.

He said:
"Whoever you are... um...
Thanks anyway.  ~AAAAUUUGGGHHH!~  ~THE~ ~CONTROL~ ~PANEL~ ~SHATTERED!~"

Nothing left to do, Trent.  Get out of there before the place freezes solid!
*23 08       Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
I can't believe my eyes!

Our sensors tell us the central core has come back online somehow and the
core temperature is returning to normal.  What did you do?  We detected a
skirmish and a release of many large protron explosions.

I don't know how you managed it, but we can now extend our efforts toward
those trapped in the lower levels.  I think we're going to be able to save
these people after all.

No way is this ever going to be a ~Microsol~ world again.  I think I'm going
to be able to convince the other corporations to join me now.  There's no
telling what they would have done if this place became active.

I can tell you now, Trent.

I believe there's no way in this universe we could have stopped ~Microsol~
if this planet was activated.  It might have taken a decade or two, but there's
no way to compete with an unlimited energy source like this.  Best we could
have hoped for was to keep them from controlling it.  With all our best
SCIs dead, though, we couldn't have stopped them.

Trent, the air out there is still at the critical freezing point, so you'd
better get out of there before the coldwave reaches you.  Don't worry about
the people trapped below.  They're pretty safe behind this Zica shielding,
and the energy conduits will reach them first.  You're out there in
the open!

I don't need a frozen cadaver on my hands!
*24 04      Desert world - Surface of Ixmucane
DELIANI PRIORITY UPLINK A2
Mondus
Tightbeam private coded message.
Forwarded by Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II - Priortily UpLink A1.

Attached messages included as second and third data messages.

~Transon~.  We are under attack by a giant ~Microsol~ combat fleet.

I have sealed off the planet surface with a fleet of battle cruisers, but someone
seems to be playing havoc up there with our security codes.  Our defense net
has been turned against us, and I'm not in control of the main computer
system anymore.

An elite group of guards and I have sealed off the secret command center and
are prepared to activate the escape system.  We are cut off from the main
system and no longer control the planet.  It is all I could do to get this
coded channel out to you before they override the private comm links.

We know little about what is happening up there, but we have managed to detect
a giant ship moving through the underground of the planet.  This thing is
unusually large, and is tapping into our power systems.  I do not think we
could stop it now if we even had the means to try.

You must seal off the planet.

Or else...

~Transon~.  We have made it our primary concern to keep the ~A1~ ~UPLINK~ open.  If
you can not stop the fleet from taking total control of the planet, you will
have to activate the ~Nova~ system.  I do not think it will take them too long
to find us once we jettison ourselves from the planet core.

Make them suffer, ~Transon~.  I... would.
*25 01
DELIANI TRANSMISSION FLUX 02975
Javi
Thanks, ~Transon~.  While the mice are away, the cat will play.  Heh.

I trust you've enjoyed playing with ~Ixmucane~.  Now, we're going to do a little
playing around with your planet.

I can see you're still too trusting, ~Transon~.  Can't believe you still left
some of those old security codes in place.  They don't make 'em like you
anymore.
*26 08       Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
Something's going on down there on ~Deliani~!

I'm sure you read the two previous messages.

What can we do?  You've got to fly ahead and distract them until we arrive,
somehow.  We've sent out a droneship to attach some booster packs to your
ship.  They should be enough to get you to ~Deliani~.  We'll try to get some
equipment to you along the way and once you reach the planet.

You now know as much as I do, ~Trent~.  I can't believe they were able to
get this fleet out undetected.  Something's going on - I don't like this
one bit.  We've been picking up ~unknown~, strange ships and energy patterns the
whole time while in orbit around this planet.

The universe is erupting into chaos, ~Trent~!  This is the only chance to save
what's left!  If you fail, we'll never be able to reach the planet in time,
even if we wanted to destroy it.  I can't tell you what the ~Nova~ system is
on this link,
but suffice it to say - it was our final hope in case we couldn't stop
Microsol someday.  It seems that day has passed me by - the blind fool I've been!
*27 01
DELIANI TRANSMISSION FLUX 02975
Javi
~Trent!?~  Is that you?

I never thought I'd get to see you again so soon.  I can't believe you've
decided to forfeit yourself to try and stop me from taking over this place!

With ~Vykromod~ crippled from the blast you gave his ship, I've taken command
of the fleet.

I've got a nasty surprise waiting down here.  So come on, ~Trent~, be the
hero you've always wanted to be and come after me.  I've got other engagements,
though, once I've blasted the irritating fool in this escape pod.

You're too insignificant to be a part of my plan.  I'd be amazed if you make
it past the missile bays.
*28 04      Desert world - Surface of Ixmucane
DELIANI PRIORITY UPLINK A2 [code P]
Mondus
Tightbeam private coded message.

Are you Trent?  I have heard of you from ~Transon~.

Forgive me for not introducing myself, but a certain ~crazed~ ~lunatic~ is
hammering on my pod's shielding with ~Lightning~ blasts.  I do not believe there
is a very good probability we will survive much longer, but I need to tell you
what you are up against.

The main defense net consists of ~battle~ ~platforms~.  Most of these launch
~semi-guided~ ~micro~ ~missiles~, though some fire more mundane ~energy~ ~blasts~.  The
missiles are what you should first look out for, though.  I would suggest
equipping some direct ~side-firing~ ~weaponry~ if you have it available.

Halfway through the core you will encounter a large ~battle~ ~section~ which you
should take out first.  This is fairly straightforward, but afterward you will be
attacked with a number of ~giant~ ~semi-guided~ ~missiles~ from behind.  Do not
attempt to destroy these.  Instead, try to conserve your energy and find a way
around them, while keeping a hold on those ~micro~ ~missiles~.

The final ~fleet~ ~ship~ seems to be a multi-stage defense
   -.  - ip. When it - . . ..- -. it will release a .- .. - -.  - ~must~ ~shoot~.

Goodbye, Trent. --. - . - like this makes - -. happy I'm only an androi

[End of Transmission]
*29 08       Head of Gencore
INCOMING TRANSMISSION from Gencore Command Ship IcoStar II
Transon
We've picked up your transmission of success in defeating the main defense
ship.  I don't mean to criticize your ability, but that seemed too easy.

I think we can repair the damage you did to Deliani without too much trouble.
At least, once we get back into the computer net.  With Mondus, the head
of ~Deliani~ ~Control~, destroyed, we're going to have a tough time trying to
reinterface with the computer.  With all the people you helped us rescue,
the ~IcoStar~ ~II~ should have enough brainpower to crack the security
fairly soon, I hope.

This definitely wasn't their main objective.  We tried to pick up a ~Captain~
~Nob~ escaping from ~Ixmucane~, but were unable to stop him.  All we know is that
he was heading in the direction of ~Savara~.  We sent some supply ships on
ahead to rendezvous with you and some other fighter ships we just dispatched.

They'll be moving in first to take out the chemical processing plants, which
should draw their energy production systems to a halt.  I'm afraid I rebuilt the ~Z-29~
~Central~ ~Defense~ ~Ship~ again, and we improved on the design.
~Microsol's~ probably already captured it with the same security backdoors
they used here.  Sorry.  I need you to go and destroy it again.

Once we get back in and get our sensor grid up we'll be able to help you
some more in locating ~Microsol's~ main target.

Good luck, Trent.
*30 03
BENO CRACKERS
Ad
New, from Omara corp.

Just when you thought you would never see another Beno again, comes ~Beno~
~Crackers~.  Made in a reasonable facsimile of the real creatures, these
tasty snack crackers are a real treat!

Pick up a holo-bowl of them today and feast down on the life forms too cute
to survive [The Editor].
*31 01
UNKNOWN FLUX 02975
Javi
What in the universe are you doing still alive?!  I thought I told you to
die the last time you showed up!

~HOW~ ~MANY~ ~TIMES~ ~MUST~ ~I~ ~KILL~ ~YOU?!?~

This time, Trent, there is no escape!

I will take you out with my personal ~DREADNAUGHT!~  You are nothing to me,
do you hear me!  ~NOTHING!!!~
*32 09
SHIP ID 000 IN SAVARA FLUX 00000
Ninja
This is your old friend, Trent.  I've managed to take out the ~chemical~
~processing~ ~plants~ here on Savara, but I think we have a problem.

My long-range sensors have detected a ~gigantic~ ~ship~ heading our way.  It's
not the size that bothers me, though.  It's not really all that big in size,
but the ~energy~ ~readings~ I'm getting from it are off the ~scale~.

It appears to also have an ~insane~ ~mass~ ~analysis~ ~reading~, like it was
something as massive as a ~planet~.  I don't like this, Trent.  I must deal
with the ships down here on Savara, but it appears to be interested only in
you, as it's ~matching~ ~your~ ~course~ exactly.

There's about one hour left before it reaches orbit.  My ship is... damaged.
I must humbly admit I won't be able to achieve orbit on my own.  I'm sorry
I couldn't help you out this time, but it is best that I stay and help these
innocents here on Savara, anyway.

You will be remembered always, Trent.
*33 11
SHIP ID 184-3C IN SAVARA FLUX 12002
Dougan
How's the war going?  I'm down here with the rest of this rag-tag band trying
to sort things out.

I intercepted the other trasmissions you received and don't like either of
them very much, ~Javi~ more so.  I think I can help you out, though.  My ship
isn't equipped for combat, but I've got a heavy-duty ~VLR~ ~sensor~ ~grid~ and a
~TQ930~ ~comm~ ~system~ packed in this baby.  If you keep your comm channel open,
I'll try to feed your computer some holographic data on the dreadnought's weak
points.

It seems that the shielding on that ship is being disrupted by the weird
~gravity~ ~field~, and whenever certain systems are activated, it draws a lot of
power from the shields.  I'll try to pinpoint the ~weaknesses~ for you.  Your
computer will display them on your vidscreen with ~green~, ~holographic~ ~arrows~.

I wish I could be there to see you kick that ~tin~ ~can~ back across the galaxy
where it came from.  ~Javi's~ a fool if he thinks some big ship is going to
save him!
*34 05
WANTED
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If so, fly immediately to your nearest ~Brownie~ ~Patrol~ ~Station~ and report
his position.

This man should be considered armed and dangerous!  He is wanted for ~Grand~
~Planetary~ ~Treason~ against Savara.  This man was formerly known as ~Emperor~
~Milktoe~.

Don't kid yourself!  ~Run~ ~away!~
*35 03
BENO CRACKERS
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*36 09
SHIP ID 000 IN SAVARA FLUX 00000
Ninja
Hello, Trent.  I have picked you up on my comm link again.

Things aren't going too well down here.  Without an outside energy boost, I'm
not sure if our ships are going to hold out.  About half of our group is gone
already and the rest are damaged.

Without outside help, we will not have enough fuel to return home.

Sigh...

Anyway, let's talk some more about hot dogs.  Did you pick some up for me
back on Ixmucane before you took out the ~Microsol~ fleet?  I could really use
one of those right now.

Signing off.
*37 11
SHIP ID 184-3C IN SAVARA FLUX 12002
Dougan
Great job!  We could see the explosion all the way back down here on Savara!
Javi won't be heading any ~Microsol~ attack fleets anymore.

Trent, the others down here aren't doing so well.  I can't help them out
directly, so I've gone back into orbit to try and contact Transon.  Have
you heard anything?

I hope I can get through for backup before we're taken out.  Almost none of us
have operational interstellar drives, and it doesn't look like anyone down
here can help us.

Anyway, I've got a long-range sensor report for you.  Their main battle ships
are headed toward ~Gyges~ for some reason.  If you can, head for ~Gyges~.  I
think they're getting ready to do something really bad now that we've stopped
their main assault.  I'd rather not be here when they're ready.

I may lose contact with you if we can't capture ~Fluxnet~ here on Savara.
Without it, my comm signals won't have the range to reach you out there.

From now on, I'm afraid you're flying blind.  I pray to ~Zinglon~ that ~Transon~
can get the Deli back online.

I hope I hear from you again.
*38 05
GYGES SECTOR - PRIVATE TRANSMISSION ID 11432
Muldar
[Message Amplified]

This is a priority distress.

We are being attacked by a ~Microsol~ attack fleet.

Can anyone out there hear me?  I'm trapped by a large ~Microsol~ fleet out here
in ~Gyges~!

We were picking up a shipment of organics when a huge stream of ships came
hurtling out of nowhere towards us.  They're not responding to our communications!
We have no combat systems!

Someone help us!  ~THEY'RE~ ~CLOSING~ ~IN!~

[Message Repeats]
*39 08       Head of Gencore
DELIANI PRIORITY UPLINK A1 [code A]
Transon
Trent?  Are you receiving me?

We've got part of Deliani operational again and have picked you up inside
~Gyges~!?  ~What~ ~are~ ~you~ ~doing~ ~out~ ~there?!?~

A merchant drone will rendezvous with you - about all we can do.  We just
picked up distress calls from Savara as well and will try to help them out.

Dougan said something about a bunch of ships leaving towards ~Gyges~, and
something about a dreadnought being taken out near Savara.  We have no
additional information about what's going on out there, so give it your best.

Transon out.


Cursed computer net...

What in the heck is going on out there, Almos?  Don't we have ~ANYTHING~
working?

[Unknown ID:] No, Commander.

I can't even get any reports on what's going on the surface here much less
off on Savara or... ~Gyges!?~  I want to know what's going on, Almos.  I want
~ANSWERS!~

[Unknown ID:] Sorry, Commander.  I'll see what I can do.  Oh, and you're needed
in command station 2.  Something about a computer authorization.

For ~Zinglon's~ sake, Almos.  Why didn't you ~tell~ me?

[Unknown ID:] Sorry.  I'll look after the communications center.

Good luck.  I can't make heads or rubniks of what's going on.  I was amazed to
pick up even ~Dougan~ out there, with his accursed, fancy little ship, much less
~Trent~.

[Unknown ID:] Everything will be fine here.  Goodbye, commander.

[Unknown ID:] Hmm?  What's this still doing on?

[Transmission End]
*40 05
GYGES SECTOR - PRIVATE TRANSMISSION ID 11432
Muldar
~Goodbye~, Trent.  I ~control~ ~the~ fleets ~now.~  ~Glad~ you ~could~ ~drop~ ~by~ ~to~
~receive~ ~my~ ~message.~


~<cough>~


You saved me the trouble of ~detonating~ ~Javi~, but I had hoped he would be
closer to ~Savara~.  No matter, just a slight alteration.  You pretty much wiped
them out for me already.

With Deliani in chaos, there won't be anyone who can stop me from taking over
the other free worlds.  I was beginning ~to~ think everyone ~out~ there ~was~
incompetent, ~but~ you ~managed~ ~to~ ~find~ us.  ~Interesting.~


<hack>

~<hack>~

<cough>


I'll enjoy watching my ~microborers~ drain your mind, Trent.
*41 03
FLUXNET 21 PRESENTS
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But ~Zik-Nar~ has a soft side for ~Blibbo~, a female slug from the far reaches
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~Almo~ and ~Zik-Nar~ ~X3~, coming to a holo-screen next rotation.
*42 03
FLUXNET 21 PRESENTS
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It's another ~Fluxnet~ 21 show you won't wanna miss!
*43 03
FLUXNET 21 PRESENTS
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Back by popular damand, it's the hilarious antics of ~My~ ~Uncle~ ~the~ ~Sloth~!

Follow ~Uncle~ ~Sloth~ on his journeys across the forests of ~Torm~ as he
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*44 03
FLUXNET 21 PRESENTS
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~holobox~ format.


Monses walked upon Savara and said:

"Let there be a group of laws for people to follow, so that they might learn
to be virtuous and live with honor."

And ~Zinglon~ said:

"Lo, let be it, for now when Tuesday then cometh with not again, be it
another less more it be.  Be faith giveth whence came me unto, yet not needeth
for unto me, for yet be learn to be."

And Monses raised his hands aloft to take the ~holocubes~, but lowered them
again and said:

"Huh?"

And ~Zinglon~ spake:

"Look.  Here's the stuff you asked for.  Take it and leave me alone."

Monses took the ~holocubes~ from the sky but saw that there was an extra cube,
a cube he had not expected.  He interrupted again and spake to the heavens:

"What's the other cube for?"

And ~Zinglon~ spake:

"You know when the people have learned but the ten cubes just aren't enough?
This is for that extra push when ten just isn't enough."

Monses scratched his head and replied:

"Surely you could make the other ten stronger?"

And ~Zinglon~ spake:

"But mine go up to ~eleven~.  Now go away."

And, ~Zinglon~ blew Monses and the ~holocubes~ off the mountain...


Enjoy these scenes and more from the greatest production of all time!

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*45 03
GRUEL: THE MODERN WAY
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*46 07
WHO ARE YOU?
Vykromod
I... I feel your presence, Trent.  Where are you?  I cannot see.

What have you done to me, Trent?  I feel... nothing.

Where is my body?  Who am I?  Am I still me?

I want to die.  Why can't I move?

Kill me.  Someone?

Trent?
*47 07
HELP ME.
Vykromod
Again, I feel your presence, Trent.  I can move now.  I don't know quite
what I have become, but I know what I must do.  I feel you are the cause
of my pain.

Come to me, Trent.  One of us must die before the other can become whole.

I... don't know what that means.  You must come.  I... must be me again.

Something is about to happen.  I can feel it.

What... have ~I~ ~BECOME?!?~
*48 08
DELIANI PRIORITY UPLINK A1 [code A]
Transon
Trent, this is Transon Lohk.

I hope you are able to get this message.  We've lost you on our sensors.
Your ship disappeared about 8 minutes ago.  Where are you?

Your life is in danger.  I am sure of it.

A great power surge is building from within Gyges.  I don't know what it is,
but you must investigate.  Perhaps you already know.  There is no time to
send any backup to help you.  You'll have to make do with what you can find
around there.

The fleet at Savara has been disabled - many were lost.  We don't have the
specific details, but we're looking for survivors.  Anyway, there is no-one
left who can reach you that far out there.  You're on your own.

Good luck, Trent.  I only wish I knew what was going on out there.  I know
you will do your best.  We will try to contact you again later.

Transon out.


[Unknown ID:]  Commander, quick, what's the square root of 4?  I think the
computer is down and we can't figure out how to fix it!

[Transon:]  Two.  You know, ensign, you have the brain of a pea.  If I was to
collect your mind and hold it for ransom, I wouldn't be able to prove it was
anything but a grain of sand.

[Unknown ID:]  Sorry, Commander.

[Transon:]  Do you have any idea what's going on out there?

[Unknown ID:]  Sorry, Commander?

[Transon:]  About Trent.

[Unknown iD:]  Ooo.  Sorry, Commander.

[Transon:]  He's going to [~chuckle~] save the universe again.  And then, do you
know what he'll probably do?

[Unknown ID:]  Sorry, Commander?

[Transon:]  He'll save the universe again, and again, and again!  He'll do
anything I want him to do to help the universe and I won't have to lift a
finger to do anything except send him these little messages like... oops...

[Transmission End]
*49 10
MICROSOL ALPHA LINK 1
Admiral
You may have killed all the others, but I am still alive!

I, Nob, am now admiral of all that I see!

No, wait.

~General!~

Hmmm...

~Emperor!~

No.  No.  Bigger.

~Supreme~ ~Intergalactic~ ~Ruler~ ~of~ ~Everything!~

Haha!

You are too late to stop my rule.  I will now activate project ~Vykromod~!

These will be the last moments you spend alive.  Cherish them.

~Captain~ ~Nob~

~Ixmucane~ Task Force ~Alpha~


Oops... Wait a sec...

...where's the stupid Y key on this keypad?  I don't have 8 fingers, how am I
supposed to type with this thing?  Maybe if I use my toe to hold down the...
~ahhhhhh!!!~

Now... bear witness!

~Supreme~ ~Intergalactic~ ~Ruler~ of ~Everything~ ~Nob~

~Commander~ of ~Microsol~ ~Super~ ~Fleet~ ~Alpha~

~Leader~ of ~Everyone~

~Master~ of ~All~

~Well~-~Liked~ by ~Animals~
*50 01
HOLO NEWS - XP9 v123-02-39
News
This is Rob Neither with the daily news.

~Zinglon's~ ~Nose~ ~Stolen~

A holy artifact believed to be the nose of Zinglon himself was stolen from the
Torm Orbiting Museum.  Religious followers are in an uproar and demand that
the party responsible return the nose immediately.  A full-scale investigation
has been launched and several planets are fully mobilizing for jihad - holy war.

~Ixmucane~ ~Threatened~ ~With~ ~Destruction~ -
~1.5~ ~Million~ ~to~ ~Be~ ~Killed~

In other news, Microsol has reportedly threatened the extinction of 1.5
million scientists and engineers on the planet Ixmucane.  A small relief fleet
has been called in, headed mainly by Gencore, to save as many people as possible.

[Clara, Co-reporter [~CC~]] : Does it really matter, Rob?  I'm beginning to think
there's nowhere in the galaxy not under some mysterious threat, but somehow it
all seems to work out fairly easily with no deaths on our side.  Isn't this
some kind of a hoax?

[Rob, Reporter [~RR~]] : Seems that way to me.  I can remember when a war was
something you could ~feel~.  Not just some report on how many scraps of metal
were found.  To date, there has been no real evidence of any Gencore or other
alliance ships participating in any major conflict.  Just minor skirmishes
with scout ships on our side.

[~CC~] : So this ~is~ some kind of hoax?

[~RR~] : Probably.  It's this lack of standards that make me wish I was back in
holo-sports.  Now that had a future.  This fake war is making me sick.  There's
nothing worse than someone manufacturing a war by exploding tons of robot
starships.  Nothing but a big fireworks display.

[~CC~] : ~OH?~ Are we still on the air?

[Program stopped due to technical fault]
*51 03
TYRIAN - THE HOLO MOVIE
Ad
Coming soon to ~Fluxnet~ ~21~: ~Tyrian~!  The made-for-holo movie!

Follow the journeys of Trent Hawkins as he saves the universe time and time
again.  In the fourth volume in this Eclipse series, you'll see him save the
giant world Ixmucane from destruction by destroying the ~giant~ ~lava~ ~ship~ on
level 3.  Then, fly with him as he restores peace to Gencore and takes on
the final Microsol center.  It's a movie you won't want to miss!

On sale now at Asteroid Charlies.

~Note~: Due to extreme demand, we are temporarily out of stock.  Thank you for
choosing ~Fluxnet~ ~21~.
*52
PERSONAL LOG
Self
Hello, self.  We're going to die, we know.  I thought we knew that.

I must admit, I am rather tired of saving the universe again and again.  That
idiot Transon will find me no matter where I go and force me to take on huge
fleets until I either die or grow old.  Maybe he'll find a way around that.
I've got to get out of here!  There must be somewhere I can go where people
won't expect me to take out entire planets by myself.

But where?

I must find a way!  Otherwise I'll be stuck fighting these Microsol ships for
the rest of eternity!  ~Aaaaarrrrrggghhh!~

Self out.
*53
HOW TO PLAY
Game
How to play the secret ending game ~ZINGLON'S~ ~REVENGE~:

A giant ship projects a horizontal field of energy.  Small enemies fall down
from above and bounce around the edges of the screen and against the energy
field.  Touching the field or one of the little enemies means almost certain
instant death.

You must shoot all the small enemies to advance to the next level.

There are 4 kinds of enemies:

~Roobles~ : Round Fireballs - Low damage - Move left to right

~Tokkies~ : Spikey Balls - Low damage - Move up and down quickly

~Zimbles~ : Eyeballs - Moderate damage - Move diagonally slowly

~Blottes~ : Blood Cells - High damage - Descend slowly and then bounce up quickly
diagonally


This game consists of 6 levels, starting on ~level~ ~5~ and descending in order
to the final level.

Level 5 : Mostly Roobles

Level 4 : Mostly Tokkies

Extra ship received after Level 5.

Level 3 : Zimbles and Blottes

Level 2 : Roobles, Tokkies, and Blottes

Level 1 : Mostly Zimbles

Extra ship received after Level 1.

Level 0 : Blottes - Destroy the energy field?

Extra ship received after Level 0.

Level -1 : ???
*54
STRATEGY
Game
Strategy Guide for ~ZINGLON'S~ ~REVENGE~:

Obviously the main point to the game is to dodge the little enemies as well
as possible.

~Roobles~ : Round Fireballs - These are very easy to destroy but get in your
way easily once they descend fairly low.  Try to take these out quickly if
you can unless a Blotte is coming.

~Tokkies~ : Spikey Balls - These can be avoided fairly easily since they move
very slowly across the screen.  You can usually position a sidekick to stay
underneath them long enough to take them out.

~Zimbles~ : Eyeballs - These are pretty slow and you can usually delay shooting
them until they start filling the screen.  Try to take out the faster-moving
enemies first if you can.

~Blottes~ : Blood Cells - These are the hardest enemies to destroy in the game.
They are fairly easy to take out while descending, so try to at least to damage
them fairly well.  Once they reach bottom, they'll start bouncing quickly and
can be hard to destroy.

~SECRET~:

Yes, of course there are secret moves in this game.  ~21~ of them, in fact.

Several of the more common ones are detailed below:

~Sidekicks:~ Attach one or two of these to your ship.

  Red sidekick : Press Right,Down,Left, then hold Fire and press Up.

~Hot Dog:~ A blast of deadly dogs.  Uses up your armor slowly, though.

  Press Up, then hold Fire and press Down.

Of course, ~all~ other special moves are also available here.

Good luck!

So far, even the designer has problems winning this game, as it should be!
My general time to beat is ~3:30~, without using many secret moves.
*55 03
Scenic guide to the universe: ~Savara~
Windy
  ~SAVARA:~

~Dining:~

Come and visit the interstellar dining halls in the underwater city of
~Ploo~.  Dozens of aquatic fish swim about the domed windows, and you can
simply point to the fish of your desire and it will be captured and cooked
for you in under 30 seconds!

Also remarkable is the bewildering variety of ethnic restauraunts located on
the surface.  Many also cater to the more exotic tastes by serving the patrons
of competing restauraunts, literally!  Anything edible [and some things that
aren't] can be purchased here at a competitive price.

~Culture:~

Savara is the eclectic hub of the sector, where many varied cultures live
together in apparent peace and harmony, though you'll want to avoid these areas
since few tourists leave them alive.  However, you can sit behind glass
enclosures as you watch the race of your choice go about their daily tasks,
unable to stop you from prying into their private affairs.

Also available is the Bring it to You service, where for a small fee the
locals will run out and round up a few ethnic groups of your choice who will
be forced to act as if they enjoy your presence.  A must for the self-conscious
traveller!

~Entertainment:~

Savara is the merchant center of the sector, where just about anything you want
and everything you don't want can be found at an agressive price.  Price
fixing and Mob control have seen that no individual merchants will ever charge
anything that isn't fair.

Also, you will definitely want to visit the ~Interstellar~ ~House~ ~of~
~Gruel~ wherein you will see the fascinating history and story behind the
great world of Gruel.  A fun affair for the whole family!

*56 03
Scenic guide to the universe: ~Deliani~
Windy
  ~DELIANI:~

~Travel Tip:~

Though most areas of the planet are restricted and guards are often ordered
to shoot unidentified personnel on sight, if you stay in the Light Green Zone
you should have no problems avoiding personal injury and death.  Be sure to
avoid the Blue-Green and Turquoise Zones as well as the Stix Zone.  The
Red and Yellow Zones are safe for travel, though the Yellow is often confused
with the Off-White and Peach Deadly Areas.  Many a color-blind traveller has
been killed by accident.

~Dining:~

Deliani provides the most technically advanced cooking systems in the known
universe.  Dishes that simply aren't palatable anywhere else still won't be
very good here, but Chef Yo of Deliani's motto is:  If it's matter, we can
make you eat it.  A unique experience you'll never be able to repeat!

~Culture:~

One word: Robotics.  Anyone's fetish for robotics can be satisfied here.
Androbots, Lobots, Robots, Androids, Redroids, Droid Droids, and many other
varieties of metallic life forms are welcome here, as long as they stay in the
Burnt Sienna or Brick Red Zones.

Deliani is the home of such ~Fluxnet~ ~21~ favorites as Honey, I Shorted-Out
the Kidforms - Almo and Zik-Nar X3 - My Mother the Lobot.

~Entertainment:~

Gencore always has a number of exciting entertainment opportunities available
for tourists.  Any number of military drills, parades, and barbaric information
torture drills can be found here.  A must for military buffs.

*57 03
Scenic guide to the universe: ~Ixmucane~
Windy
  ~IXMUCANE:~

The original headquarters of Microsol.  This planet has a very dry
and desert-like surface with the occasional mountain range.  The advantage of
this world is its weak inner crust, allowing Microsol to build
gigantic research facilities undergound.  Immense domed cities can be seen
in major research and production locations.  The tragedy of Ixmucane is that it
was originally the home of the ~Zica~, an unknown race of alien that
originally carved immeasurable labrynthine tunnel systems under the
surface.
The ~Zica~ are feared by xenoscientists, who believe that the they have fled
to the outer reaches of the sector where they plan to launch a massive attack
on Deliani and Microsol, using outer-dimensional technology.
But is it true...?

And, if so, will I, the writer, ever grow bored enough to write the sequel
using this suggested plotline?

*58 03
Scenic guide to the universe: ~Torm~
Windy
  ~TORM:~

A rubnik is worth a thousand words on this planet.

Sector capital and regional chapter of the Interplanetary Government.  Torm is 
one of the largest worlds in the sector, surpassed in size only by the ice 
world of Camanis. The surface is similar to Savara's, though consisting of 
grasslands and heavily forested mountain regions.  The city capital, Portoch, 
is a metropolis of corruption and dark, rainy days.

~Dining:~

Torm is a vegetarian's delight or worst nightmare.  Twenty-eight thousand
types of vegetarian dishes are served daily, with another Sixty thousand
on request.  Also prevalent is a large selection of animal dishes with the
ever-popular and expensive ~dragon~ ~succotash~.  Many people save up their
whole lives just to order this dish once.  Many others succumb to the toxic
nature of the dish, but what a way to go.

~Culture:~

Only make a visit to be depressed, since the buildings are so neglected they
are streaked with dirt.  It is said that the chapter lords are so decadent 
that they seldom emerge from the local simulation clubs.  The city itself is 
an example of why Microsol holds so much sway in governmental policies: bribery.

~Entertainment:~

On Torm, you can partake of the most degrading sports and acts known in the
universe.  Few ever leave this planet the same, and fewer even leave - or can.
A visit to this planet is one you won't easily miss.  Be sure to bring a
bodyguard.  Actually, bring a whole army.  You'll need them.
*59
HOW TO PLAY
Game
How to play the secret ending game ~ZINGLON'S~ ~SQUADRONS~: [~ZINGALA~]

Large formations of ships fly down to attack you.  Individual ships in the
groups break off to fly down in various ways.  You must destroy the entire
fleet to advance to the next fleet.  Basically, just shoot everything you
can.

You must shoot all the small enemies to advance to the next level.

There are 7 kinds of enemies:

~Zimbles~ : 10 pts / 20 pts attacking : Damage 4 : Eyeballs

~Blottes~ : 15 pts / 30 pts attacking : Damage 6 : Blood Cells

~Zoomers~ : 20 pts / 40 pts attacking : Damage 5 : Bombs

~Roobles~ : 25 pts / 50 pts attacking : Damage 5 : Fireballs

~Tokkies~ : 50 pts / 100 pts attacking : Damage 7 : Little Spikey Balls

~Garmons~ : 100 pts / 200-300 pts attacking : Damage 10 : Big Spikey Balls

~Widgets~ : 250 pts / 500-??? pts attacking : Damage 20 : Big Brown Ship

Your ship is armed with a simple rail gun which cannot be increased.  Also,
you have no shields and merely subsist on armor.  However, the armor ship will
still come down to help you.

Extra lives are earned at 10000, 20000, and every 25000 pts thereafter.

*60
STRATEGY
Game
Strategy Guide for ~ZINGLON'S~ ~SQUADRONS~: [~ZINGALA~]

There are four types of enemy formations:

Type 1 : ~Block~ : A simple four row mass of enemies.  They attack quickly but
if you don't care about your score you can blast through them pretty quickly.

Type 2 : ~Bombs~ : This block variation has a row of bombs in the front which
are difficult to destroy and fly down quickly.  If you can blast through them,
you can get a clear shot at the Garmons.  The center Garmon will not move, so
try to take it out before the formation leaves for extra points.

Type 3 : ~Delta~ : This is not a difficult formation at first, as you can take
out the side enemies fairly quickly.  Unfortunately, the center Tokkies will
fly out at you extremely quickly and are difficult to anticipate.  Don't let
the Zimbles get close to the bottom or else you may have difficulty maneuvering.

Type 4 : ~Bonus~ : This is a very quick formation for extra points.  The
Zoomers and Roobles will attack in force first.  Then, the Widget will attack.
Make sure you destroy this!  After the Widget will come some more small ships
and the two remaining Garmons.

There are no special moves available in this game.
*61
REMINDER
Game
You do not need to play this game to continue.  It is merely an extra game
for your enjoyment.  If you want to continue on back to Episode 1, simply
select ~Give~ ~Up~ in the Next Level menu.

Also, this game can not be played by two players and will only be available
in the full game.

Enjoy!
*62 11
SHIP ID 184-3C IN SAVARA FLUX 12002
Dougan
Trent?  I've picked you up on my sensors.

No time to talk!  There's a ~Microsol~ freak on my tail and I'm flying unarmed.
I'll be ok as long as I can stay out of range.  That weird ninja guy with the
stealth ship is moving in to help.

I'll contact you again when I'm able.  Good luck.

Dougan out.
*63 06
SCRAMBLED TRANSMISSION CODE 445-A1-A1-Jack
Reid
Trent, am I glad to see you!  Microsol has destroyed most of the defenses on
Savara and the rest have been taken over.  They came quickly.  Someone has
sold our planet out to them.  Who?

I am glad to know you are out there.  I and many others have taken refuge
in shelters below ground.  They have control of the ~Central~ ~Defense~ ~Ship~.

A handful of others are already fighting on the surface, but we are sorely
outnumbered.

I must go.  We need to conserve battery power for the hospitals.  They have
severely damaged the fusion generators.

Reid

Acting President of Savara
*64
Weapons Research, Camanis
TOP SECRET
Confidential memo #4410-303-TDCam

Laser research is progressing steadily, according to projections.

Project Thermos has completed stage 2 and is moving to the final stage 3.  We
anticipate having a prototype stage 3 laser cannon very soon.

Camanis research station Loopy is prepared to ship 3 modified battle cruisers
to you as soon as we receive word from you.  Planetary coordinates for pickup
are 399 x 21.

We need confirmation immediately.  So far, we don't believe any enemy forces
have learned of our position, but we only have a skeleton defense force.  No
main battle cruisers are currently online.  This leaves us especially vulnerable
to outside attack.

This is Mycroft Dalo, Microsol Research Control, signing off.
*65 02
Alambusol
Ad
[Cheerful, brightly lit living room.  Late 103rd century decor.]

When dreaded alien parasites are drilling into my head, I reach for ~Alambusol~.

~Alambusol~ is the only anti-parasite xeno-spray which I trust.  Two squirts and
ten minutes later, my head is clear and free of infestation once again.

[Cut to Medical office.  Very modern.]

Yes, four out of our five doctors recommend ~Alambusol~ to their infested
patients.  The other doctor was fired.  So, you can see that we are firmly
commited to using this spray on our patients.

[Quick wipe down to scene of rendered Spray bottle floating in a stasis field.]

So transmit a bottle of ~Alambusol~ to yourself today!  You won't be sorry.
*66 01
Ressurectos
Ad
Are you feeling down in the dumps... deceased?  Have friends and family stopped
calling you now that you're 6 feet under?

Well, fret no more!

Dansen Technologies has the answer to all your afterlife problems.

~Ressurectos~!

Within these little pills is a potent life-giving recipie which is guaranteed
to bring you back to life.  Simply take one in the morning after a full moon
on your planet (or moons) and drink a glass of water.  You'll be your old
self in no time.

Check us out at ~FLUXNET~: 405-4003-3030.
*67 03
Scenic guide to the universe: ~Camanis~
Guidebook
  ~CAMANIS:~

~Dining:~

Located 2 miles east of the Ultra-secret Microsol research station is the
All-powerful Bob Hartley's ~IceCream-O-Matic~.  The ultimate in high-powered
instant cryo manufacturing facilities, the ICOM system can instantaneously
generate up to 3 cubic miles of ice cream, in any of 24 billion flavors.

Microsol has made this possible by purchasing out all other ice cream manufacturing
facilities and amassing the recipies of every vendor who has ever existed.

This bewildering decision rocked the world of ice cream futures but made
Microsol the undisputed master of all the ice cream in the universe.  They take
their ice seriously.

~Culture:~

Not many people enjoy living in the sub-zero confines of this planet.  Because
of this, they are an extremely proud people, prone to bawling out wimps like
you who have climate control.  If you visit, be sure not to mention how cold
it is unless you want a very one-sided conversation.  Steer your topics
toward their lovely scenery and extensive museums of ice sculptures.

~Entertainment:~

A skiiers dream.  This is the cold vacation spot of the universe.  Millions of
ski slopes litter the world, providing entertainment to endless visitors each
year.  Camanis boasts year-round snow and optional near-zero visibility for the
ultra-suicidal skiier.  What more could one ask for?

For the friends of those suicidal skiiers who are dragged along on vacation,
try out your hand at massive free-form laser ice sculpture.  For a small fee
per hour, you can have the enjoyment of carving up your very own mountain.
If you simply must take it back home with you, Camanis even offers 2nd minute
delivery!  All you have to do is to find a place to store your mountain and
keep it cool.  An adventure for the whole family!
*


Faces
1,2  *: Miscellaneous reporters
3    *: Merchant
4    *: Mondus - Random scientist
5    -: Green mottled dying person - unused
6    *: Reid - Leader of resistance against using Hazudra as slaves
7    *: Vykromod
8    *: Transon
9    *: Ninja - Sneezei - Mysterious Person
10   *: Captain - Random human
11   *: Dougan - Friend on Torm
12   *: Beppo - Pirate from Torm - stupid