Tor'Vash'Por (3)

 Idris: ... Good evening welcome back to Tor'Vash'Por, I'm Idris Zhaan joining you now at the top of the hour. We begin with our top story tonight in the Penros system where Tau warships have engaged several pirate spacecraft above Penros VI. The action marks the first large scale space combat by Tau expeditionary forces in the system and represents a major escalation of the Penros conflict, our correspondent Farrier Seyburey has more now. 

(The cool white armoured prow of a Hero class starship sprawls across the bottom of view, arcing out towards an endless field of stars, with a massive rectangular gun barrel stretching into the cosmos even further)

Farrier (VO): The day the Tau coalition always knew would come... 

(The enormous gun fires in total noiselessness at some unseen target. As it does the stars in the distance ahead twist and swirl inwards towards the front of the ship, stretching out as the universe scrunches towards the gun muzzle. Almost immediately after the gun fires the starscape swims back to its normal state) 

Farrier (VO cont.): ... the Penros Coalition's first space combat. 

(Inside a vast cavernous rectangular launch bay, a Manta laden with enormous underwing missile pods sits poised for takeoff. Tiny figures scatter away from it to their flight deck stations before the machine lurches into life and tears off past the camera in a tremendous rush of speed) 

Farrier (VO Cont.): Tau fleet elements today undertaking routine anti-piracy operations in the vicinity of Penros VI came under attack from human warships under the command of Mont'au'Gue'la terrorist forces.. 

(Inside a vast cavernous rectangular launch bay, an SX-06 Barracuda with a bundle of missiles slung underneath races across the flight deck, roaring burning plumes of bright flame blasting from its engines, before rocketing off through the launch bay door and into deep space)

Farrier (VO Cont.): ..in what has become the first major space combat in the Penros System since the arrival of Tau expeditionary forces several weeks ago.. 

(The rear underside of a Manta sprawls across the top of view as we see a vast cavernous rectangular launch bay rapidly shoot back and downwards, followed by the vast launch bay entrance and enormous shape of an Explorer class starship falling into the distance as the Manta takes off and races away on its launch trajectory)

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. The Tau flotilla, comprising of several escort ships and four capital starships including the expedition fleet's flagship, encountered six unidentified escort ships that refused to respond to hails and opened fire with torpedo strikes.. 

(Missile after missile after missile leaps upwards in a relentless stream of bright burning plumes of flame from a cluster of vertical launch cells on the massive flank of a Tau starship, which sprawls across the bottom of view and stretches into the distance)

Farrier (VO Cont.): ... The ships are believed to have been manned by Mont'au'Gue'la fighters belonging to one of the local terrorist groups active on Penros VII, but latest intelligence indicates a possible connection to the Word Bearers Gue'la terror group.. 

(Viewed in monochrome through a Tau weapon seeker, the distant shape of an Idolator class raider slowly begins to grow out from the centre of view, wiggling to and fro as the missile tracks to keep it in the centre of vision. A stream of flashes races forwards from the ship before sweeping up and over out of view. At once the Idolator rushes forward into the camera, zooming straight into a section of its hull before the image abruptly cuts)

Farrier (VO Cont.): ...While engaging the initial hostile ships the Tau formation came under attack from multiple capital warships of modified Imperial design, which materialised directly from warp space in support of the attacking Mont'au'Gue'la.. 

(Viewed in monochrome through a Tau gun camera, an Idolator class raider hangs in space, bright spheres of light radiating from its engines. A trio of small flashes zoom across the screen and straight into the middle of it. The ship is engulfed in a series of brilliant white flashes before snapping in half at the middle of the hull, a sea of glowing molten fragments spilling away from it in a fan pattern)

Farrier (VO Cont.): ..These ships made numerous small-scale etheric jumps over the course of the battle and Tau fleet analysts believe them to have been equipped with highly sophisticated warp drive and self-repair technology. Rumours that the warships were manned with or supplied by so-called etheric lifeforms remain unsubstantiated.. 

(A rugged stocky rocketship hangs in the middle of view as it hurtles through space at an oblique angle. Hideous dull red sigils are painted across its surface, and tiny lights can be seen from cabin windows aboard it. One by one, it slams into first one, then two then three passing cruise missiles, leaving a trail of debris pouring from gaping holes in its hull and cabins) 

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. The terrorist ships also made extensive use of manned suicide vehicles to intercept incoming Tau fire, succeeding in downing a large number of anti-ship missiles and tying up interceptor squadrons with an appalling loss of life. It is not yet known whether the suicide vehicles were carrying willing fighters, or civilian hostages forced into the line of death against their will..

(Viewed from above in monochrome through a Tau gun camera, an Idolater hangs in the void, silhouetted by spheres of light from its engines as it points away from view. A trio of small flashes zoom across the screen and into the port side of it. The ship is engulfed in a series of brilliant white flashes before spiraling out of control, breaking apart into a mess of debris and glowing molten fragments)

Farrier (VO Cont.): ..After a hard-fought engagement lasting eight decs, Tau fleet elements were forced to disengage and withdrew from the area in good order after inflicting considerable damage on the Mont'au'Gue'la terrorist forces.. 

(The huge form of a Merchant class starship hangs in the void, starlight occasionally curving around the perimeter of its gravitic shield. At once its forward gun turrets fire in a rippling pattern)

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. Air Caste Command Penros has confirmed at least one Mont'au'Gue'la capital ship destroyed along with all of the initially detected escort ships in return for no Tau capital ship losses and only 5 escort ships reported downed.. 

(Viewed from above in monochrome through a Tau gun camera, the menacing form of a Chaos cruiser hangs in the cosmos. At once a series of brilliant white flashes ripple across its surface, tearing huge chunks from its hull in sprays of debris and molten fragments)

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. The Tau admiralty strongly condemned the use of manned suicide vehicles and reckless disregard for life displayed by the Mont'au'Gue'la, while praising the discipline of its starship crews in timely use of emergency brace measures to avoid catastrophic losses, as well as the skill of its attack wing pilots in inflicting far greater damage on enemy shipping. 

(A Tau Air Caste pilot, holding his helmet in one hand by his waist, talks into a microphone held from just out of sight)

Tau Air Caste: Kor'Tau Y'eldi Ko'va[Our guys did really good out there today, really good. The Manta crews did a really great job on their bombing runs and landed some really good hits on the opposing starships. We inflicted crippling damage on a lot of them, but they had some really unusual capabilities that let them make lots of little warp-space jumps around us while repairing their hulls, so we only managed to destroy one of their capital ships for good. Still, I'm really pleased with how my guys performed out there today] 

(Farrier stands in a crisp white corridor of a Tau starship, star-strewn space visible in a large rectangular viewport behind him) 

Farrier: The Tau coalition leadership is putting a lot of focus on the discipline and coordination of their starship crews, going on well-timed emergency brace orders to avoid the worst damage while inflicting heavy losses on the Mont'au'Gue'la ships in return, but the fact remains that the Tau fleet was ultimately forced to retreat, and that's a cause for serious concern behind closed doors. Initial reports seem to indicate that the Tau flotilla was caught unprepared - they had adopted a wide search pattern to patrol for minor pirate threats, and that left their two main formations out of position to support each other and vulnerable to the Mont'au Gue'la ships concentrating on them piecemeal, with the Tau admiral giving the order to withdraw after the flotilla was in danger of being defeated in detail. In any case the outcome of this battle remains indecisive, on the one hand the Tau did manage to inflict greater damage than they received, but they also failed to contain the Mont'au'Gue'la incursion, and it is believed three highly dangerous cruiser-class warships remain at large in terrorist hands. 

(The frontal prow of an Emissary class starship sweeps across the bottom of view, a tiny point of light maintaining precise echelon formation ahead of it in the starry distance)

Farrier (VO): The remaining Mont'au'Gue'la warships are believed to have left the vicinity of Penros VI shortly after the engagement, and additional Tau ships arrived not long after to carry out search and rescue operations.. 

(The forward underside of a Manta sprawls across the top of view, the top of a Tau escape pod just visible at the bottom of view as the distant shape of an Emissary class starship draws closer)

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. with sources from Air Caste Command Penros claiming the bulk of downed crew and pilots were successfully recovered.. 

(The massive form of a Messenger class starship powers across space, light pouring from its engines)

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. Meanwhile remaining Tau Kor'vattra forces in the system have been placed on full alert.. 

(Nestled in a workstation, a Tau Air Caste diligently watches over the readout on the display screen of a sensor console)

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. and extensive search operations are currently underway to hunt down the elusive Mont'au'Gue'la starships and neutralise them quickly before they can cause more harm.. 

(The huge form of a Merchant class starship powers forward through space, framed in a halo of light from its engines)

Farrier (VO Cont.): .. while additional Tau warships are being mobilised for the Penros system.. 

(Tau Earth Caste and drones scurry back and forth along a ruined starship corridor, replacing cables and welding panels and components back into place)

Farrier (VO Cont.): In the meantime, the race is on to get these wounded starships fully repaired, and back in the fight. From Penros System this is Farrier Seyburey, Tor'Vash'Por.

Idris: And joining us now to shed more light on the story we have Kor'El'Tau'n Shovah'Y'eldi'B'kyse, former Tau fleet commander and current instructor for the Leonov Naval Academy, on live feed, Kor'El just how concerned should we be about the Penros Expedition given this defeat in their first major space combat? 

Shovah: ..... Well Idris the first thing you need to understand here is that the coalition's situation in space is very different to what's happening on the ground at the moment. As we're all aware the expeditionary ground forces landed have been on the.. on the... the back foot, almost since the first Rotaa in system, but the expeditionary force's position in space has been formidable for the same time- 

Idris: Righ- 

Shovah (Cont.): -which is after all why the Gue'la fleet, why they abandoned the system almost immediately- 

Idris: Hang on hang on- 

Shovah (Cont.): after landing the Gue'la Imperial invasion force on Penros VII, after a few shows of force it was very apparent that they would have no hope of challenging the Kor'vattra forces deployed- 

Idris: OK but it's all well and good to say that the coalition fleet is this massive juggernaut of force, yet as we've clearly seen they've had their first real combat action in the system, and it ended in a failure for them. I mean they've already acknowledged losing five escort starships and being forced to retreat, so how capable can the Tau fleet in the Penros system really be? 

Shovah: Yes it's true they have suffered a setback here, but this is also only one relatively small operation in a wider campaign here, and I would say fixating on the outcome of this one specific engagement is going to be missing the... to be missing the... missing the... the trees... missing the trees for the forest... the forest for the trees rather. 

Idris: So you're saying there's a bigger picture here that we're missing? 

Shovah: Right, exactly, you need to account for the strategic situation and the strategic situation for the Penros coalition fleet right now is still very strong, yes they have taken losses but as bad as those losses might have been they are survivable. The capital ships that were damaged can be repaired, while the destroyed Mont'au'Gue'la starship cannot, and in the meantime the coalition fleet still heavily outnumbers these raiders and is still maintaining control over the Penros system. 

Idris: But what about the advanced technical characteristics displayed by these Mont'au'Gue'la warships, I mean they can clearly outmanouevre the Tau ships in battle, so what's to stop them from just doing that again and again? 

Shovah: Well nothing really, but as we've seen from this very engagement they're also not invincible, and our ships can catch and destroy them. And that goes back to my point, if the coalition fleet can continue to just catch and destroy even one of those starships every time they're encountered, that's a rate of loss that's unsustainable for these Mont'au'Gue'la, whereas with the logistics base behind the Penros Coalition we can sustain a few starships crippled here or a few escort ships lost there. 

Idris: So would you say then that you don't think there's any danger here for the Penros mission? 

Shovah: I wouldn't say that exactly, no. 

Idris: Alright so what would you say is the greatest concern facing the Penros Coalition fleet at the moment then? 

Shovah: Right now I would say that the biggest threat for the Kor'vattra in Penros is the strategic precedent. Up until now the fleet has been acting almost as a fleet-in-being, where you have this situation where the Kor'vattra is.. where it's almost that the THREAT of the fleet is more potent than it's combat power, like for instance where the threat of interdiction was enough to drive off the Imperial Gue'la invasion fleet from the system, and the Kor'vattra retreating from this engagement, it... it undermines that. 

Idris: So hang on, just before you were saying how strong the coalition's position in space was, and now you're saying this battle has weakened it? Which one is it here? 

Shovah: I would say the coalition's position in space is still strong, but now it's fragile. Up until now it's been able to command unchallenged control over Penros System space, and now that control has been challenged, and that sets a precedent for other forces to start making bolder actions, there's now concerns among the Kor'ar'tol for instance that the local Ores'la might start taking bolder actions against coalition space assets, and that Imperial Gue'la naval forces might return to the system in greater strength, and while all of these various powers don't necessarily pose a threat individually, if they all start attacking at the same time it could quickly see the Kor'vattra in the system overwhelmed. 

Idris: Alright so how would you suggest that the coalition might be able to rectify that issue? 

Shovah: Well the Kor'ar'tol is reinforcing the system and I think that's already a good move to make sure that we retain at least local space superiority over some of these potential adversaries, and especially that we outnumber them in ships and tonnage, and the local coalition command taking the initiative in tracking down these Mont'au'Gue'la warships is also a good move since they need to be neutralised quickly while the coalition fleet still has that advantage in numbers and logistics over them and has the luxury of focusing down on one threat at a time, so they're off to a good start already. Beyond that I think it's mostly going to be a matter of choosing their battles wherever possible, and trying to gain more leverage on the ground so that the Penros Coalition has more options for power projection beyond aerospace control. 

Idris: Right, now unfortunately we are just about to run out of time but one final thing I do want to ask you about Kor'El is what do you make of the suicide vehicles we've seen used by these terrorists here?

Shovah: I am sickened to my core, I cannot find any other.. any other words for it. It's already fairly well known that these Mont'au'Gue'la terrorists they don't normally have any regard for the sanctity of life, but deliberately putting hundreds if not thousands - and that's something we have to remember there, these vehicles, they're modified boarding torpedoes that they accommodate hundreds if not thousands on board - but deliberately putting all those hundreds if not thousands directly in the way of.. 

Idris: Kor'El-

Shovah (Cont.): .. ah, not one but many many incoming fusion missiles, this is just a total atrocity no matter how you put it, and I'm just ah... I'm just... ahhh... it's barely... it just doesn't comprehend just how a sentient spacefaring people.. 

Idris: Kor-

.. could not... not just take the option of that but, you know, willingly and gladly go along for it.. 

Idris: Kor'El I'm sorry-

Shovah (Cont.): .. as if purposefully killing that many people achieves any good purpose.. It's just horrifying, it's something out of our Mont'au. 

Idris: Alright Kor'El'Tau'n Shovah'Y'eldi'B'kyse I'm afraid I am going to have to leave it there as we are running out of time but thank you for joining us we are very grateful to have your expertise on the matter. 

Shovah: Thank you Idris.  

Idris: Meanwhile now Tau authorities are growing increasingly alarmed at escalating tensions in the Ferndel sub-sector. Imperial Gue'la forces have managed to repel an attack by Mont'au'Gue'la terrorists on the fourth moon of Sturges Maxima. The fighting has caused significant damage to the civilian settlements on the moon and represents a serious escalation in the region, correspondent Zara Abdi has more for us now. 

(We see a sweeping vista of lush rugged woodland. Thick black plumes of smoke rise from numerous points along the treeline. Automatic gunfire echoes across the landscape.) 

Zara (VO): Fierce fighting broke out today on Sturges Maxima's fourth moon, as Mont'au'Gue'la terrorists launched an attack on the ancient city of Ostroglamesh, a renowned cultural heritage site in the system.. 

(Explosions echo along a rugged tree-covered mountain valley) 

Zara (VO, Cont.): .. The armed group is believed to have been roughly Cadre sized and comprised of heavily armed Ores'la'Gue'la fighters, thought to former Imperial Astartes shock troops with links to the notorious Night Lords terror group.. 

(A sprawling woodland rushes past the view from the roof of a speeding ground-car, beneath a brilliant sunset. The gas giant of Sturges Maxima fills the upper sky. The sky is smudged with thick black funnels of smoke pouring up from beyond the tree line) 

Zara (VO Cont.): ..Sources indicate these fighters were equipped with a range of advanced Imperial weaponry including a number of heavy powered combat armour suits.. 

(In the dark of night, the black hulking shapes of Rhino APCs can be seen rolling through the deserted main street of an Imperial town)

Zara (VO Cont.): The armed group occupied the Ostroglamesh ruins at dawn, where they were met with a reinforced cadre-strength force of Imperial Astartes shock troops belonging to the elite Dark Angels Brigades of the Gue'la Imperial Army, supported by heavy combat walker.. 

(In a shaky view of pre-dawn darkness the silhouette of a Land Speeder can be made out, speeding across the countryside at the head of a plume of bright purple-blue flame)

Zara (VO Cont.) .. and light skimmer assets.. 

(In the midday sun a vast towering gothic palace of marble and alabaster adorned with Imperial iconography dominates the skyline of a small stone cityscape)

 

Zara (VO Cont.): .. Gue'la Imperial authorities are reporting that the Dark Angels Brigade force managed to decisively rout the Mont'au'Gue'la terrorists after a brutal nine hour battle.. 

(We see an entrance to the palace up close, filling the background with its ominous might. Tiny figures move up and down two vast sets of stone steps flanked by two colossal statues of grey stone, a roaring lion on the left and a tall proud-looking woman, clad in flowing robes and an archaic helmet holding a spear and shield, on the right)

Zara (VO Cont.): .. but sources indicate the Dark Angels shock troops suffered heavy losses in the fighting, with estimates claiming as high as a fifty percent casualty rate..  

(We see a still image of a large complex of white stone ruins nestled amongst lush green woodland threaded with roads and pathways, viewed from above. Craters, scorched ground and other signs of battle are everywhere. The view zooms in on a section of ground, focusing on the wrecked form of an archaic Imperial Dreadnought adorned with winged sword iconography. One leg has been blasted clean in half, and a series of jagged gaping holes have been punched across its rear engine block. 

Zara (VO Cont.): ..and the confirmed loss of at least one heavy combat walker, showing signs of catastrophic damage from heavy laser and automatic cannon impacts.. 

(Viewed from behind the windshield of a moving ground-car, a group of figures clad in black body armour, their faces concealed, patrol a distant checkpoint, slowly getting closer as the ground-car moves along a stretch of road through deep green forests. At once the ground-car stops at the sound of a series of crackling pops, the windshield cracks from an impact and the ground-car frantically turns around and drives back from whence it came)

Zara (VO Cont.): .. Imperial officials have denied claims that so-called etheric lifeforms were present in the fighting and that they managed to overrun the ruined temple at the heart of the Ostroglamesh site. They have also refused to comment on speculation that the Ostroglamesh site has some form of undisclosed etheric resonance, although the ruins remain under strict quarantine by Imperial secret police elements..

(An Imperial settlement burns in the night, fire blazing from much of its buildings. The night sky is painted in a bloody red-orange glow)

 

Zara (VO Cont.): .. The aftermath of the battle has seen no end to the fighting, with remaining Mont'au'Gue'la terror cells launching a series of brutal reprisal attacks on outlying civilian settlements. Well over a dozen towns and villiages have been razed to the ground, and there are unconfirmed reports of chemical weapons being deployed against more still. 

(Zara walks along the street of a small village of Imperial buildings)

Zara: The threat of widespread use of weapons of mass destruction by the terrorist forces in the Sturges system is a very real threat for civilians on the ground - analysts in the Tau intelligence community believe there is credible evidence that the particular armed group active here is armed with a considerable stockpile of chemical and biological weapons, and it is thought that they would have no hesitation of deploying them against civilian targets to undermine resistance against them. These are ordinary human citizens now fearful for their lives, yet the Gue'la Imperial authorities have yet to make any public acknowledgement of the danger facing them, much less take any action at all to ensure their safety. 

(Plumes of thick black smoke rise from a ruined Imperial settlement)

Zara (VO): Instead Gue'la Imperial forces have launched a widespread and repressive crackdown on the civilian populace. Locals from around the Ostroglamesh region have reported Imperial Astartes shock troops sweeping through their towns and villiages and burning their homes to the ground.. 

(A stampede of humans clad in Imperial peasant attire flee in terror down a street from the sound of automatic gunfire a few blocks away)

Zara (VO Cont.): .. Many have been killed by Imperial Astartes death squads, while many more have been abducted by Dark Angels Brigade fighters, never to be seen again.. 

(A long column of humans in ragged Imperial clothing trudge down a road through the countryside, clearly unkempt and weary. Some of them pull crude handcarts behind them loaded with goods, others simply hold a few boxes or cartons in their arms)

Zara (VO Cont.): .. Streams of refugees are now a common sight among the countriside of the Ostroglamesh region, desperate for respite. 

(A hardy-looking human civilian aged in his mid 30s talks into a microphone held from just out of sight)

Local Civilian: They came to our town at night, they burned everything. They shot my brother and my nephew in the street, there was nothing left but bloody shreds of flesh. I do not understand what we have done wrong? 

(A distraught human villager in her mid 20s talks into a microphone held from just out of sight)

Local Villager: My children! My children! Why did they kill them, they were innocent! 

(A gnarled sun-kissed human elder in his mid-to-late 60s talks into a microphone held from just out of sight)

Local Elder: Every day we pray to the Emperor for Him to keep us safe! He sends us His angels, we are told his angels are beings of mercy for man, yet they come and destroy everything! They came for my wife, she disappeared! The Emperor's angels, the traitors, they are all the same! All the same! 

(Skimmer traffic moves back and forth past a large dome adorned with the Tau Empire insignia, nestled in the middle of a compound of gleaming futuristic structures)

Zara (VO): The Tau embassy mission in the Ferndel sub-sector has expressed strong alarm at the deteriorating situation, and Tau authorities are urging both sides to show restraint and avoid civilian casualties at all costs.. 

(Streams of skimmer traffic move past a massive dome adorned with the Tau Empire insignia, nestled in the middle of a dense bustling Tau city)

Zara (VO Cont.): .. Despite increased calls for Tau peacekeepers in the region, Tau leadership remains hesitant to commit a larger military presence in the Ferndel sub-sector, and high-ranking Sept Councils are believed to be in heated debate over the subject.. 

(Masses of supplies, including large piles of full grain sacks, stacks of water and fuel tanks, and towering piles of cargo crates, are loaded into the open rear hatch of a large Tau cargo lander at a busy Tau starport)

Zara (VO Cont.): .. Tau officials have announced that plentiful humanitarian aid support is available for dispatch to the sub-sector at immediate notice should the local government request it.. 

(Imperial civilians are seen hard at work building up and reinforcing the buildings in their settlement. Some have had sandbags piled around them while others have their windows boarded shut)

 

Zara (VO Cont.): .. In the meantime the people of the Sturges System can only prepare for the worst, and wonder if the bloodshed will reach them next. From the fourth moon of Sturges Maxima I'm Zara Abdi, Tor'Vas'Por. 

Idris: And to talk more about this story correspondent Lindsay Black has prepared this for us, from the Tau Sept world of Dal'yth Prime. 

(Lindsay stands in front of a vast bustling Tau cityscape of gleaming white and grey. Orderly streams of skimmer traffic can be seen moving back and forth in the distance behind her) 

Lindsay: We've been told that local Sept Council leaders here are still going back and forth between both their counterparts in T'au and numerous allied governments including the Gue'vessa Federation, and it's believed that the Dal'yth Sept will be receiving delegations from T'au, Pech and the Gue'vessa Federation amongst numerous other alien representation to discuss possible action plans for the Ferndel situation. Now Tau leadership appears to still be very hesitant about direct military commitment to the Ferndel subsector, not least due to unstable situations in several other regions much closer to Tau space including the Penros sub-sector, and consensus seems to be that these other crises would need to at least be stabilised first given that any large scale mission to the Ferndel sub-sector would need to pass through a number of those other threatened regions of space first. 

The other factor at work here of course is that so far none of the local authorities in the Ferndel subsector have made any formal requests for Tau assistance, unlike in the Penros region where there was a very emphatic call for help, and Tau leaders seem to feel that as much as they would like to help their hands are tied as they don't want to directly violate galactic law unless they have no choice, which would require louder voices than the fairly low-level ones coming from the citizens on the ground. 

It's a very complex cosmopolitical situation, but the offices of the Tau Ethereal Caste have announced that they are greatly saddened at the pain of the civilians affected by this conflict, that their suffering is irreconcilable to the Tau'va, that's of course the greater good, and that they desperately hope to be able to do something more to help as soon as possible. 

Idris: Moving onto other news now and preparations are underway on Iris to host the upcoming All-Federation Leadership Summit. Delegations are underway from across the Gue'vessa Federation and are expected to discuss coordination in social welfare, interstellar trade and collective foreign policy plans, with top issues expected to be...

Intelligence Report - Eyes Only (2)

--TO: Shas'O'T'au Kais'ka'Eoro'Da'Anuk, Aun'El'T'au Or'res'Cea, Gue'El Santiago, Penros Coalition Command--

--SENT: T'au'Il'fannor'Vre'Shi'B'Ko--

--AUTHOR: Por'Vre'T'au Bentu'Doran--

--SUBJECT: Intelligence Update: Bandit Group S-- 

-- CROSS-REF.: Penros Campaign, Pirate Activity, Mont'au'Gue'la, Terror Activity--  

Tau'fann, 

My work with Kor'Vre'T'au Sa'Kunas to track and observe the activities of the local Mont'au Gue'la terror group designated Bandit Group S continues apace. Since our last report the terror group has largely gone underground on Penros 7, and consequently the Penros Air Caste Command has downgraded their threat status and corresponding target priority in the ongoing KIR'LA-6 operation. 

Nonetheless Sa'Kunas's teams have continued to monitor and observe the activities of Bandit Group S as constantly as possible, a task complicated by the terrorists' proficient skills in fieldcraft and stealth. While major actions and concentrations of troops and equipment are easy to identify, the smaller dispersed activities of Bandit Group S terror cells are becoming more challenging to track with aerial and orbital surveillance assets alone. 

Despite this Sa'Kuna's teams have managed some level of success and we can present a broad overview. Based on available data it would appear that Bandit Group S has spent some time and effort regrouping and rebuilding their forces to an extent, and most core cells appear to have been restored to their nominal strength. Current recruitment sources for Bandit Group S is at present unknown, but most likely theories suggest access to reinforcing troops from outside the system through as yet unidentified means. It is also speculated that the terror group may have procured or be seeking to procure some form of genetic replication technology as a long-term solution to manpower requirements. 

In any event Bandit Group S appears to have grown confident enough to begin attempting serious destabilising activities once more, and affiliated Terrorist cells have been observed concentrating their efforts on the Penros 7's northern reaches. We were forced to abandon much of this territory during our initial encounters with the system's local Ores'la, and various local pirate and terrorist forces have battled across the expanse ever since. 

While the Ores'la appear to be focused elsewhere for the moment, Bandit Group S has instead most recently come into contact with another recently emerging Mont'au'Gue'la terrorist group, which Coalition Intelligence has designated BANDIT GROUP T. Coalition assets have thus far observed two incidents involving combat between these two armed groups. 

1. BANDIT GROUP S - UPDATE MEMORANDUM 

(i)

The assets of Bandit Group S that were observed during these incidents have changed little since the last report on the terrorist group, and so for the sake of brevity will not be repeated here. For a comprehensive overview of the combat structure and elements involved refer to file B3952 INTELLIGENCE REPORT - BANDIT GROUP S. 

(ii)

What is of note is that of the Bandit Group S assets observed thus far not all were observed present during INCIDENT 1 - Bandit Group S CELL 3 was notably absent from this engagement, appearing in combat only some time later. The reasons behind this temporary absence are unknown to us at this time, but based on communications intercepts and psych profiling we believe the most likely cause to be some form of political or theological disagreement based around Cell 3's known theistic beliefs surrounding so-called 'Nurgle' worship. 

Given this fact and the confirmed presence of terrorist elements within Bandit Group T that share similar theistic practices, it seems probable that the operatives of Cell 3 were hesitant to fight their fellow worshippers of the same religious order and could not be persuaded to take up arms against them until later. This evidence lends further support to the potential for inciting or inflaming a political schism within the Bandit Group S organisation along sectarian lines - further investigation into efforts to exploit this opportunity are recommended. 

Alternate theories include issues with supply or technical malfunctions in the exotic etheric-powered equipment favoured by Cell 3, or extended convalescence from earlier combat wounds, but these all remain speculative and unsubstantiated. It is the team's belief that the theological-political friction outlined above remains the simplest, best-supported and most likely explanation. 

(iii)

In any event Cell 3 was observed in combat with Bandit Group T forces during the later INCIDENT 2 - it is believed that their intervention was a result of their fellow worshippers taking up arms against their comrades or the emergence within Bandit Group T of fighters observing opposing theistic practices, with either event being perceived by Cell 3 as a betrayal worthy of direct action. Both events being causes is considered likely. 

2(a). BANDIT GROUP T - INITIAL OVERVIEW 

(i)

While Bandit Group S remains the primary focus of my team, in the absence of a dedicated intelligence team assigned to monitor them it is necessary for me to include in this report a brief primer on the nature of the Mont'au'Gue'la terrorist group designated Bandit Group T. 

Bandit Group T represents the newest Mont'au'Gue'la terrorist organisation to be identified in the Penros system. Much like Bandit Group M the organisation appears to be primarily comprised of Gue'la terrorists with few Gue'va operatives thus far observed. The group appears to be a civilian-rooted insurgency, as the bulk of fighters thus far encountered appear to be militia or levies recruited - willingly or otherwise - from the civilian population with little in the way of formal military training, formation drill or equipment being observed. Most notably, virtually no heavy weapons have been identified in any meaningful number among the group's fighters, which is at the time of writing the primary weakness of Bandit Group T terror cells, though at the rate they appear to be acquiring additional weapons this disadvantage is unlikely to last for long. 

(ii)

Nonetheless it would be a serious mistake to dismiss Bandit Group T as a mere rabble. Indeed, the group appears to command a tremendous technical capability with bio-genetic research and modification, as well as highly advanced genetic manipulation technologies. It would appear that the bulk of the organisation's resources has been concentrated in these fields, and the results are nothing short of astonishing. The group employs extensive genetic modification across virtually all of its fighters and operatives, with many examples pushing the envelope on the known limits of Gue'la anatomy and biochemistry. 

Most notably the main front-line fighters that comprise the bulk of the group's terrorist cells appear to have had their physiology altered in ways that dramatically improve tissue strength, skeletal strength, cellular stabilisation in the face of extreme trauma as well as dramatically dampening nervous response to adverse stimuli. The result is combined with physical modifications to the subjects' epidermal tissues - most commonly in the form of hardened scales or wart-like lesions of hardened ionised tissue - to produce gene-edited Gue'la that are vastly more resilient to physical harm. 

(iii)

Most worryingly, this has the effect of making these Gue'la militants all but impervious to small arms and anti-personnel firepower - including that of our own pulse weapons. The appearance of these gene-edited Gue'la terrorists represents the first major instance of common foot soldiers being unaffected by plasma pulse impacts, requiring concentrated fire to even have a chance of stopping them. Up until now the only adversaries with this capability were Gue'va shock troops encased in powered battle armour exoskeletons, who have been not been encountered in any significant numbers. These gene-edited Gue'la employed by Bandit Group T are deployed in significant numbers however, and the results are already being felt - the sight of masses of these Gue'la walking through the concentrated storms of firepower laid down by our Fire Warriors has had a disastrous impact on our troops' already fragile morale. 

(iv)

Perhaps even more fantastically, the group appears to have devised some cheap and practical means of resuscitating Gue'la bodies well past the point of being medically dead. Large numbers of the group's front line forces have been observed to comprise of what can by all scientific metrics be considered cadavers reanimated by as-yet unknown means. The subjects appear to have extremely limited neurological and mental capacities, with all subjects observed being incapable of much more than animalistic intelligence and limited ambulatory skills, but the fact that even such limited faculties can be gleaned from such advanced states of decay is astonishing. Some genetically engineered biological vector is considered the most likely avenue for this capability, based on observed behaviour of subjects and observational data of the condition appearing to be transmissible via biting. 

It should be noted that this is not the first time such capabilities have been observed in the hands of Mont'au'Gue'la terrorists, as similar cases have been documented in operations [ D A T A  R E D A C T E D  -  C L A S S I F I E D  M A T E R I A L  -  A C C E S S  I S  R E S T R I C T E D  T O  C L A S S  8  A U N ' O  S E C U R I T Y  C L E A R A N C E]  during [D A T A  R E D A C T E D  -  C L A S S I F I E D  M A T E R I A L  -  A C C E S S  I S  R E S T R I C T E D  T O  C L A S S  8  A U N ' O  S E C U R I T Y  C L E A R A N C E] as referenced in [ D A T A  R E D A C T E D  -  C L A S S I F I E D   M A T E R I A L  -  A C C E S S  I S  R E S T R I C T E D  T O   C L A S S  8  A U N ' O  S E C U R I T Y  C L E A R A N C E]. Presumably Bandit Group T has managed to access the same technology by as yet unknown means. 

(v)

Bandit Group T's political doctrine remains unknown as of this time. At first it was initially believed that the group represented a large-scale following of the monotheistic 'Nurgle' religion. This was based on early reports and surveillance data showing a large number of 'Nurgle' monotheist figures present within the organisation. 

Later Air Caste signals intercepts and further surveillance data suggests this theory was erroneous however, with Sa'Kunas's teams having identified at least one major terror cell practicing a conflicting monotheistic practice of 'Slaanesh' religious observance. Further analysis of Air Caste signals intercepts indicates additional large cells observing monotheistic 'Khorne' death cult practices, as well as polytheistic religious observances referencing all three theistic figures. 

It is possible that the group represents a patchwork of multiple political and theological factions, which would indicate the possibility of of a potential schism between them - creating or exploiting such division could significantly weaken the organisation's power base and threat level, and additional investigation into efforts towards this end is advised. 

2 (b). ORDER OF BATTLE (CONFIRMED) - BANDIT GROUP T 

COMMANDER (Ass. Second-In-Command): Unidentified Mont'au'Gue'la agent, observed directing local cells in combat and believed to be primary officer commanding front-line Bandit Group T assets. Recommend prioritising tracking of this individual with surveillance and observation assets when dedicated intelligence team is assigned. 

Genetic-physiological derivations are currently unknown. Suspected Gue'va former shock troop. 

Observed equipment includes: 

- Experimental etheric weapon 

This device resembles a primitive sword murder implement, and data indicates a number of similarities to the gruesome powered energy swords favoured by the Gue'la. It is possible that this weapon represents an advanced prototype of a next-generation model stolen from a Gue'la R&D institute, or an extensively modified variant. 

In any case this device is based on etheric technology, possibly even incorporating metacreative composites in its construction, and appears to employ or channel etheric energies into its disruption field to provide tremendous amounts of destructive force. Fortunately, in addition to the obvious shortcomings of its non-existent striking range, the weapon has a catastrophic design flaw - energy signature and pattern analysis indicate that the weapon is dangerously unstable, making it more dangerous to its user than to its user's adversaries. 

- Subject is also accompanied by two 'vesa, who appear to be diminutive Gue'la of some variety. Their purpose as of this writing remains unknown. 

SUB-COMMANDERS (Ass. Subordinate to Commander): Three (3) unidentified Mont'au'Gue'la agents, observed managing local cells directly as well as engaging in destabilising and provocative activities. These figures are currently believed to operate freely within the organisation, assigning themselves to specific cells as they see fit. 

All three agents have been observed with extensive bio-augmentation. This includes: 

- Significantly augmented arm structures including etheric bio-technologies to impart shearing-force strength far beyond normal biological limitations. 

- Suspected etheric conduit biotechnic implants. 

In addition to this observed equipment includes: 

- full complement of Gue'la manufactured grenades including fragmentation, shaped implosion charge and thermo-molecular reactive explosives.

CELL T-4: Five (5) Gue'va shock troop operatives specialised for close quarters assault. 

Observed equipment includes: 

- Five (5) Gue'la light bolt drivers (Model type unknown)

- Five (5) suits of Gue'la manufactured powered battle armour. Confirmed to feature etheric enhancements and extensive techno-organic modifications. 

Armour capabilities include: 

- Integrated assault weapon system (unidentified energy weapon based on metacreative technology) 

- greatly enhanced user strength 

- onboard shield generators

Communications intercepts indicate the operative believed to lead this particular cell holds deep theistic beliefs venerating a deity-like figure known as 'Slaanesh'. This particular religious practice has been observed consistently across a large (approx. 20% of all groups encountered near Tau Space) section of Mont'au'Gue'la terrorist and pirate groups. The other Gue'Va cell members appear to share these theistic tendencies. 

CELL T-0: Four (4) genetic-augmented Gue'la agents. Significant and extensive genetic bio-augmentation observed. 

This includes: 

- Significantly increased size and body mass 

- Significantly increased muscle mass and physical strength 

- Significantly increased skeletal density 

- Significantly increased tissue density 

- Significantly dampened pain sensitivity 

- Significantly increased aggression impulses 

Observed equipment includes: 

- Assorted collection of crude bludgeoning implements and repurposed heavy industrial tools 

CELL T-1: Twenty (20) reanimated Gue'la. All cell members identified as deceased Gue'la cadavers resuscitated with unknown bio-genetic vector. 

Observed equipment includes: 

- Assorted Gue'la clothing in varying states of disrepair. 

CELL T-2: Fifteen (15) genetic-augmented Gue'la. Significant genetic bio-augmentation observed. 

Bio-augmentation includes: 

- Gene-edited epidermal tissues, including additions of armoured scales, chitinous lesions and wart-like lesions across much of the body. 

- Enhanced tissue mass 

- Significantly decreased sensitivity to pain. 

Observed equipment includes: 

- full complement of Gue'la manufactured grenades including fragmentation, shaped implosion charge and thermo-molecular reactive explosives. 

- Assorted collection of improvised bludgeoning and stabbing implements 

- Assorted Gue'la clothing in varying states of disrepair. 

CELL T-3: Fifteen (15) genetic-augmented Gue'la. Significant genetic bio-augmentation observed. 

Bio-augmentation includes: 

- Gene-edited epidermal tissues, including additions of armoured scales, chitinous lesions and wart-like lesions across much of the body. 

- Enhanced tissue mass 

- Significantly decreased sensitivity to pain. 

Observed equipment includes: 

- full complement of Gue'la manufactured grenades including fragmentation, shaped implosion charge and thermo-molecular reactive explosives. 

- Assorted collection of improvised bludgeoning and stabbing implements 

- Assorted Gue'la clothing in varying states of disrepair.

- MCW T-1: One (1) Mal'Caor autonomous heavy combat walker. 

Observed armament includes: 

- One (1) heavy tank gun of Gue'la design (120mm Gue'la spec calibre), modified for indirect fire

- One (1) twin-linked heavy automatic cannon of Gue'la design (estimated 37mm - 57mm Gue'la spec calibre) 

- One (1) bio-mechanical close combat device ('Scourge' type pattern based off Gue'la torture device design) 

- Two (2) heavy mechanised powered claw appendages 

Observed modifications include: 

- Enhanced armour protection (suspected etheric or techno-organic technologies incorporated) 

A complete inventory of all identified equipment and its quantities can be found in attached data file BANDIT GROUP T - PRELIMINARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY AND TABLE INDEX. 

(ii)

The Mal'Caor heavy combat walker appears to be the most recent addition to Bandit Group T's arsenal, and its appearance came as a surprise to both us and Bandit Group S as it was initially believed that Bandit Group T's doctrinal focus was concentrated solely on bio-genetic research and technology as well as bio-genetic enhancement of common foot troops, and that this extreme focus would leave no resources for the procurement of heavy weapons or heavy equipment. The presence of such sophisticated equipment indicates Bandit Group T's funding, black market contacts and resource pool are far more extensive than initially believed. Further investigation into these areas of Bandit Group T should be given immediate priority. 

(iii)

It is also noteworthy that procurement of Mal'Caor combat platforms was given first priority by Bandit Group T leadership. Out of all the various Gue'la and Mont'au'Gue'la combat platforms presumably available to them, they favoured procurement of the Mal'Caor over even the readily available B'Elan'gu'cha combat platform with far greater utility to such an infantry-focused insurgency with limited resources. 

This is not an isolated case either -  mission data from Air Caste assets engaged in Operation KIR'LA-6 shows confirmed kills on dozens if not hundreds of Mont'au'Gue'la vehicles, including both B'Elan'gu'cha and Mal'Caor platforms and many more besides, yet the various terrorist groups operating on Penros 7 continue to field Mal'Caor combat walkers even if they cannot deploy any other kind of vehicle. That the various Gue'la terrorist groups active on Penros 7 are able to continue fielding the combat walkers in spite of such staggering attrition rates is a compelling testament to the value these terrorists place on the Mal'Caor design. 

(iv)

Decrypted Air Caste signals intercepts suggest that the core leadership of Bandit Group T is something of a 'tiered diamond' in structure. Four major figures have been identified directing Bandit Group T cells in field operations. All four are suspected to be Gue'va former shock troops, but if so all of them typically operate outside of the powered exoskeletons usually issued to Gue'va shock troops, which makes definitive identification difficult without closer inspection. 

In any event three of these individuals appear to be largely subordinate to the fourth, managing smaller scale operations and personally directing individual terrorist cells while the fourth figure manages larger scale command. Signals intercepts also suggest an as-yet unseen fifth figure with total authority over the entire leadership structure, but we have been unable to conclusively identify any further information about this fifth leader and details remain sketchy at best. 

This leads Bandit Group T to have what appears to be a particularly decentralised chain of command, and as such termination of senior leadership figures is unlikely to disrupt their terrorist activity to any significant degree. The entire organisation will, it seems, have to unfortunately be dismantled completely. 

3. INCIDENT REPORT - DEPOT 262

(i)

The Incident at Depot 262 represents the first major action by Bandit Group S since their ill-fated attempt to capture Outpost 515 some 20 rotaa ago, as well as the first major action by Bandit Group T we have observed. Depot 262 itself is comprised of a subterranean installation located in the northern mountains of Penros 7's primary inhabited continent and was one of the sites used to store the heavy equipment of the Fire Caste Command deployed to the planet. The site was completely evacuated 18 rotaa ago and is now empty of any significant Tau equipment. It can be assumed that Bandit Group S was attempting to capture the installation for use as a robust shelter from our Air Caste assets and a hidden base of operations. It is also assumed that Bandit Group T was seeking to capture the depot for similar purposes. 

(ii)

Unlike the attack on Outpost 515, this time the Bandit Group S strike force waited until nightfall before commencing their attack. We had anticipated that Bandit Group S would make frequent use of night-time attacks to sow confusion amongst their adversaries and leverage their excellent night-fighting skills common to all Es'Mont'El'Da terrorists, and were surprised to see their earlier attack during daylight hours. It would seem that the terror group had like us underestimated the ferocity of the local pirate and terrorist groups in the system, and has adjusted their tactics accordingly. In any event the Bandit Group S strike force clearly anticipated using the surprise and confusion of a night-time attack to aid in demoralising and intimidating the Gue'la irregulars opposing them into retreat, in accordance with known Es'Mont'El'Da combat doctrine. 

(iii)

As best we can determine, the operational plan employed by the Bandit Group S strike force (approximately cadre level in strength) was to use the superior stealth and fieldcraft skills of its main infantry cells to closely shadow the approaching Bandit Group T force (also cadre level in strength) and closely observe the force disposition of the Bandit Group T elements. Once the weaker Bandit Group T elements were identified, the Bandit Group S infantry teams would forward-deploy to concentrate on the opposing force's weakest flank with Cell 2 while the smaller Cell 1 acted on the opposite flank as a diversionary force to draw the bulk of Bandit Group T assets away from the main attack. At the same time the motorised Cell 4 would use their speed to rapidly reinforce Cell 2's attack while Cell 0 covered the push with long range fire support. 

Fig. 1. Initial deployment of belligerents

(iv)

Initial deployment of Bandit Group S forces in the area would appear to corroborate this. Once again the initial Bandit Group S deployment was concentrated around a reverse-slope defence of key high ground overlooking the primary above-ground entrance to the depot, albeit this time featuring Cell 0 deployed conventionally - it would appear that the force commander did not wish to risk a matter transmission insertion after the disastrous outcome in their last engagement. Once again our surveillance assets were largely unable to locate Cell 1 and Cell 2 until they broke cover at precisely D-Dec + 01:00:00, with Cell 2 appearing on the left flank of Bandit Group T (or the right flank of the Bandit Group S position) and Cell 1 appearing in front of the opposing flank along with the presumed Bandit Group S commander. 

Fig. 2. Bandit Group S deployment detail - note reverse-slope deployment and concealed ambush positions 

(v)

The Bandit Group S attack was fatally compromised by the complete and utter refusal of Cell 0 to engage any hostile targets, or even open fire once throughout the entire engagement. This bizarre behaviour remains a complete mystery that has left us baffled. Analysis suggests that the Cell 0 operatives may have failed to acquire or identify any targets under night fighting conditions, but historical data regarding the notorious proficiency of Es'Mont'El'Da terrorists with nighttime operations calls this conclusion into question. The other highly intriguing possibility is that this action was a deliberate act of insubordination motivated by some kind of internal power struggle or political rift within the Bandit Group S organisation- additional investigation into current internal political dynamics of the group may be necessary. 

Ultimately the lack of heavy fire support from Cell 0 left the Bandit Group S force without an effective answer to the significant mass advantage enjoyed by Bandit Group T, which combined with ineffective fire from Cell 2 resulted in Cell 2 and Cell 4 - which had as planned moved up for close support - being overrun and the attack collapsing with Bandit Group S forces withdrawing after a protracted Six Dec engagement having suffered considerable casualties once again. 

Fig. 3. Bandit Group S Cell 0 in the field. Despite commanding field of fire this unit was completely inactive for the entire battle

Fig. 4. Bandit Group S Cell 2 in combat. This flanking attack proved ineffective due to lack of fire support from Cell 0

Fig. 5. Bandit Group S Cell 1 in combat. Note: the smaller lifeforms in contact with Cell 1 are an anomaly. They have been present in all Bandit Group T attacks thus far, typically employed as screening or spoiling elements as seen here, however their nature remains unknown. Believed to include small Etheric Lifeforms, suspected close cousins of otherwise unique Type-7S Etheric Lifeform. 

(vi)

A critical point of the incident occurred at D-Dec + 03:47:51. Multi-spectral data indicates some kind of energy spike emanating from one of the Bandit Group T sub-commanders leading a counter-offensive launched against Cell 2. The energy signature appears similar to that of a matter transmission beam, but localised entirely on the precise position of the sub-commander himself. It should be noted that this event occurred after the sub-commander appeared to suffer critical injuries, and it is believed that whatever device triggered it was rigged to some manner of dead-man switch. 

Immediately following this energy spike we were able to identify the arrival of one (1) Type-7O Etheric Lifeform. As you will no doubt be aware this unprecedented event marks the first confirmed presence of an O-class Etheric Lifeform of any kind anywhere in the system. O-class Etheric Lifeforms are of course exceedingly rare, and have only been observed anywhere within Tau space on a handful of known occasions. The implications of this event are startling to say the least. 

The presence of a Type-7O Etheric Lifeform indicates that Bandit Group T must have considerable etheric infrastructure in place, given current hypotheses that O-class Etheric Lifeforms are the most vulnerable and least able to survive in a conventional matter environment. O-class Etheric Lifeforms are of course believed to be highly intelligent and command tremendous leadership authority (roughly equivalent to Aun caste), which would indicate tremendous influence of the 'Nurgle' type theistic sect within the Bandit Group T organisation - it is this observation that contributed to earlier erroneous assumptions that the group was entirely devoted to 'Nurgle' type theism. Because of these factors it can also be assumed that the Type-7O Etheric Lifeform identified likely commands a major leadership position within the terrorist group. 

The appearance of a Type-7O Etheric Lifeform also presents an opportunity for further observation and study of O-class Etheric Lifeforms, being as they are the rarest and least documented variety of Etheric Lifeform, which is already a form of life that we know very little about. 

Fig. 6. Confirmed presence of Type-7O Etheric Lifeform. This is the first O-class Etheric Lifeform observed anywhere in this region of space. 

(vii)

Additional note should be made to the Bandit Group S commander leading the attack. This individual fought with a level of tenacity surprising by Es'Mont'El'Da standards, continuing to fight on after Cell 1 had been broken and ultimately tying up a large portion (estimated to be approximately 25-45% of total Bandit Group T forces committed) virtually single-handed. Indeed, most shockingly this individual even displayed something that can only be considered a twisted kind of valour as he fought a delaying action alone against much of the Bandit Group T forces and managed to hold up their advance by himself for almost 4 Decs while the rest of the Bandit Group S force withdrew. Only after all other friendly assets had cleared the area of operations did the commander disengage, vanishing from our surveillance at D-Dec +06:89:34.  

His actions undoubtedly brought valuable time for the forces under his command and almost certainly allowed the force to evacuate much of their casualties in good order, preventing a rout and complete massacre. Such selflessness is virtually unheard of among Mont'au'Gue'la, especially Es'Mont'El'Da terrorists, and an anomaly well worth investigating further. It is very possible that such acts are a key factor in this commander's ability to maintain political cohesion among Bandit Group S and secure his leadership position against internal threats to his power. Certainly he does not appear to have been removed yet despite leading two failed operations. 

Fig. 7. Remains of Bandit Group S cell 1 in combat

Fig. 8. Bandit Group S Commander in combat. This individual is believed to be in command of Bandit Group S, and fought on unassisted for several Decs to buy time for his forces to escape before disengaging

(viii)

Depot 262 remains under Bandit Group T control as of this writing. An attempt to investigate the incident further and retake the facility by Fire Caste forces was made in the aftermath of the engagement but ultimately failed to shift the terrorists - for further information refer to attached data file COMBAT REPORT - DEPOT 262 INCURSION. 

4. INCIDENT REPORT -  LISSELTON 

(i)

The settlement of Lisselton consists of a relatively small (pop. 700,000 according to latest available census data) Gue'la town situated in the mountainous northern reaches of Penros 7's primary continent. The town was the sight of considerable conflict with the local Penros security forces (or PDF in their native Gue'sia) and encroaching Ores'la tribes prior to our invitation into the system, and still featured a considerable amount of leftover equipment and supplies from the local Penros security forces that was abandoned following their defeat and withdrawal from the area. 

It would appear that following their earlier setbacks Bandit Group S forces designated the town of Lisselton as a rallying point and chose to regroup within its former central districts, motivated mostly by the settlement's proximity and abundance of cover within the urban ruins. The abundance of salvageable Gue'la supplies and equipment appears to have been unexpected and surveillance data suggests it was seen as a pleasant windfall rather than an operational priority. 

(ii)

At the same time, Bandit Group T appears to have somehow gleaned intelligence on the leftover supplies and equipment in the area - we believe the most likely source of information to have been former Penros security force personnel, either divulging the information willingly after defecting to the terrorist group or from the terrorists extracting it under duress. In any case the group appears to have dispatched a strike force to recover the leftover equipment and supply caches after securing the Depot 262 facility. It is speculated that further persecution of Bandit Group S to prevent Bandit Group S forces regrouping was a secondary objective. 

(iii)

As best we can determine, the primary objective of Bandit Group S was to defend their perimeter against the Bandit Group T incursion, with a secondary objective of recovering the unclaimed supplies and equipment to further aid in the reconstruction of their forces. Certainly decrypted signals intercepts suggest that Bandit Group S fighters considered the battle to be a struggle for their very survival and consequently fought all the more fanatically as a result. 

(iv)

This incident marked the first use of heavy equipment by Bandit Group T, in the form of a Mal'Caor autonomous heavy combat walker, as well as the return to action of Cell 3 of Bandit Group S. 

(v)

Unlike the previous incident, the action within Lisselton occurred during daylight hours. This is notable because available data indicates that Bandit Group S forces were able glean an effective early warning of the incoming attack and were aware of the Bandit Group T force's route of march and intentions well in advance. By all accounts Bandit Group S had every change to launch a counter-attack at night to leverage their night-fighting skills, yet appear to have purposefully chosen to wait, allow the Bandit Group T force to enter the town and engage them under daylight conditions. 

It is believed that the Bandit Group S commander was drawing from recent experience, and thus not only wanted to ensure the availability of fire support from Cell 0 but also did not deem Bandit Group T fighters as having enough ranged firepower to constitute a threat in daylight conditions - in other words, we believe the Bandit Group S commander deemed the superior firepower of his forces enough of an advantage to render the cover of darkness unnecessary. As mentioned earlier in this report, the presence of heavy combat walkers does not appear to have been considered by the Bandit Group S commander. 

(vi)

As best we can determine, the operational-tactical plan employed by Bandit Group S appears to have been something of a refused-flank defence, using a concentrated coordinated ambush by Cell 1 and Cell 2 on the weakest identified flank of Bandit Group T force while Cell 0 anchored the opposing flank and Cell 4 and Cell 3 acted as an immediate reserve. 

This is supported by initial Bandit Group S deployment, with Cell 0 sited on a building rooftop commanding the force's left flank and central approaches to the town centre, while Cell 3 and Cell 4 deployed centrally in the remains of the town hall to reinforce as necessary. Cell 2 and Cell 1, lead by the Bandit Group S commander, broke cover at D-Dec + 01:00:00 on the Bandit Group S right flank. 

Fig. 9. Bandit Group S activity on right flank. Cell 1 is just visible on right. Note Cell 4 has already been dispatched to opposite left flank

(vii)

The majority of Bandit Group S efforts focused on their right flank, which appears to have been deemed the weaker flank due to the commitment of Bandit Group T elite soldiery and heavy armour to the opposite flank. Both Cell 1 and Cell 2 launched a co-ordinated ambush and swift assault on the Bandit Group T left flank, presumably seeking to quickly eliminate the lesser Gue'la fighters present there before rolling up the flank alongside Cell 3. 

This was aided by some astonishing fortune when the opening salvo from MCW T-1's main gun deviated off-target, with the shot impacting directly to the right of Cell 2 and inflicting only a single casualty. This would prove to be the Mal'caor Combat Walker's only activity of note with its main gun, as subsequent targets quickly closed under the weapon's minimum effective range. 

Thus undeterred, Cell 2 and Cell 1 persecuted rapid attacks against their respective targets, one of the Gue'la infantry cells and the enhanced Gue'la of Cell T-0. Cell 2 engaged in an intense one-sided firefight with Cell T-3 at D-Dec + 01:50:32 that lasted 20 rai'kor and inflicted a number of casualties on the Gue'la troops, but failed to break them. Most notably Cell 2 suffered one casualty in the attack when one of their medium plasma accelerator rifles overheated, crippling the operator in the resulting critical meltdown and plasma detonation. This is highly indicative of the poor state of maintenance and upkeep observed with many Mont'au'Gue'la terrorist groups, of which Bandit Group S appears to be no exception. 

Fig. 10. Bandit Group S Cell 2 in combat, Lisselton

(viii)

Cell 1 then launched a close quarters assault on Cell T-0, but despite tremendous skill at arms was able to inflict only a single casualty at the hands of the force commander. This in turn caused the close quarters battle to stall long enough for the remainder of Cell T-3 to reinforce Cell T-0. 

In response to this Cell 2 appears to have switched focus and swung towards the centre with the goal of rooting out the entrenched Cell T-2 which had dug into a building opposite the town hall, while Cell 3 moved forward to reinforce the Bandit Group S right flank. Note that Cell 1 and indeed the Bandit Group S commander appear to have been abandoned to their fate, with no noticeable effort appearing to be made to come to their aid - rather the Cell 3 deployment appears to have been made in an effort to contain the Bandit Group T counter-attack while Cell 2 pressed onward. 

This lack of effort to relieve Cell 1 appears to have not been in vain however, as while Cell 1 itself was overrun by the overwhelming numbers of bio-enhanced Gue'la, the Bandit Group S commander himself nonetheless managed to hold up the counter-attack almost completely unsupported over the course of the following Dec, managing to not only eliminate the remainder of Cell T-0 in close quarters combat but also eliminate the sub-commander leading Cell T-3, all while suffering only superficial damage in return. 

Fig. 11. Bandit Group S Cell 1 in combat. Note casualties already sustained - this close assault would quickly stall out despite best efforts

(ix)

A first critical point of the incident occurred over the course of the second Dec. At D-Dec + 02:15:34 we detected an energy spike indicative of long-range matter transmission, with an EM profile matching that observed during the battle around Outpost 515. Once again we also observed the appearance of no fewer than five (5) Type-7U Etheric Lifeforms in close proximity to Cell 3. Presumably these Etheric Lifeforms are of the same unit that assisted Cell 3 in the Outpost 515 engagement, and it is likely that they represent the primary liaison between Bandit Group S and their Etheric Lifeform allies. 

Some time later however, at D-Dec + 02:47:51 we also detected a second energy spike, this time emanating from the Bandit Group T sub-commander leading Cell T-3 and matching the EM profile of the Depot 262 incident. This was immediately followed by the reappearance of the Type-7O Etheric Lifeform affiliated with Bandit Group T. It is believed that this being was acting as a reserve and deployed to reinforce the threatened flank - our own forces observed Bandit Group T employ a similar tactic of leaving a flank deliberately weakened only to rapidly reinforce with their Type-70 Etheric Lifeform benefactor during our own incursion at Depot 262. 

The appearance of the Type-70 Etheric Lifeform appears to have finally been enough to discourage the Bandit Group S commander, who promptly disengaged combat and fell back towards the far edge of the area of operations. It is believed that he was attempting to draw the Bandit Group T forces away from his main strike force. If this is true then he was also successful, as the Bandit Group T forces pursued him closely and re-engaged close assault no fewer than 45 rai'kor later, though with the ultimate result being that the entire left flank of Bandit Group T was left out of position. 

Fig. 12. Appearance of Type-7U Etheric Lifeforms. Note Bandit Group T Cell T-3 has reinforced close quarters battle between Cell T-0 and Bandit Group S Cell 1, with only Bandit Group S commander still combat-effective. This individual would later draw Bandit Group T forces across entire flank in diversionary action

(x)

Meanwhile combat on the opposite flank was largely defined by the presence of MCW-T1. After failing to eliminate Cell 2, the Mal'caor combat walker moved forward to attempt to engage Cell 0. It is believed that the modifications to the combat walker's primary weapon system to allow for indirect fire prevented the weapon from engaging directly at closer ranges, as the Mal'caor combat walker spent the remainder of the engagement attacking Cell 0 with its secondary weapon system. The automatic cannon armament proved ineffective against the armoured protection of Cell 0's heavy battlesuits, but Cell 0's return fire was also ineffective - despite landing several hits on the heavy combat walker with heavy anti-armour laser weaponry, Cell 0 was unable to penetrate the enhanced armour package of MCW-T1. After 3 Decs of exchanging fire ineffectually, Cell 0 proceeded to switch targets and begin laying heavy fire on Cell T-1 with heavy automatic bolt-driver weaponry, though they were unable to inflict enough casualties to render the cell combat ineffective. 

Fig. 13. Bandit Group S Cell 0 in combat. Note Mal'caor Autonomous Heavy Combat Walker MCW-T1 in background. These two elements exchanged largely ineffective fire for much of the battle

(xi)

Meanwhile Cell 4 proceeded along and around the left flank of Bandit Group S. It is believed their orders were to encircle the Bandit Group T position and destroy the Mal'caor combat walker with thermo-reactive explosives. If this is true then Cell 4 failed to reach their target, as they were intercepted by Cell T-4 as they broke cover at D-Dec + 03:45:26. Notably Cell 4 seemed unfazed by the attack and displayed expert rapid response skills, immediately launching into a well-timed and well-ordered rapid counter-attack that caught Cell T-4 by surprise. Ultimately Cell 4 was overrun, but not before delaying Cell T-4 in reaching their presumed intended target of Cell 0, buying precious time for their compatriots to complete their fire support mission. 

(xii)

The key decisive point of the engagement came at D-Dec + 03:86:55. After re-engaging with the Bandit Group S commander Bandit Group T forces managed to surround the individual and eventually overrun his position, but not before the commander managed to inflict noticeable damage on the Type-7O Etheric Lifeform. No sooner had Bandit Group T forces consolidated their position than the Type-7O Etheric Lifeform appears to have spontaneously disintegrated and dematerialised. We believe that the Bandit Group S commander must have somehow damaged the creature's life support apparatus, leading to a catastrophic breach of conventional matter into its local environment. Other possibilities include that the hits damaged some kind of power-core on the creature's person, triggering a catastrophic meltdown, as available data indicates a tremendous concentration of energy present at the centre-mass of most O-class Etheric Lifeforms encountered. 

In any case the disappearance of the Type-7O Etheric Lifeform threw the entire Bandit Group T flank into complete disarray, which Bandit Group S forces quickly exploited. Cell 2 swung back and launched an immediate counter-offensive that saw Cell T-3 completely routed and the entire flank in total collapse, before turning back and linking up with Cell 3 to push into the centre. The following band of Type-7U Etheric Lifeforms was left to mop up and secure the flank while the Gue'va fighters pressed the attack. 

(xiii)

It is at around this time that Cell T-4 reached contact with Cell 0 and launched a close assault, however faced extreme difficulty in negotiating the ruined structure to reach Cell 0's rooftop position. This difficulty critically robbed the assault of its coherency and momentum, with the result that it ultimately failed with the Cell T-4 fighters being destroyed piecemeal by defending heavy battlesuits using their integrated close combat weapon systems, though not before disabling two of Cell 0's heavy battlesuits in the process. 

(xiv)

The final major point of the incident occurred at D-Dec + 05:03:15 when Cell 2 launched a close assault action on the Mal'caor combat walker, which had moved forward to intercept their attack on the centre. They were followed shortly by Cell 3, and together the two units managed to fight the combat walker to a standstill over a protracted 3 Dec engagement before one of the Cell 3 operatives finally managed to destroy the machine by plunging their polearm clean through its power core. 

Fig. 14. Mal'caor Autonomous Heavy Combat Walker destroyed by Bandit Group S forces

(xv)

Following the destruction of the Mal'caor combat walker Bandit Group T forces pulled back to a renewed perimeter, absconding with approximately 50% of the abandoned equipment in the immediate area of operations. Bandit Group S in turn consolidated their own holdings and recovered their dead and wounded. It should be noted that especial priority and attention went to the recovery of their fallen commander - evidently the anonymously selfless actions and twisted valour of this individual have earned him the respect of his fighters. 

The settlement of Lisselton remains actively contested by both terrorist groups. 

CONCLUSION 

As predicted, Bandit Group S appears to be rapidly adapting to operational conditions on Penros 7, and is quickly refining their tactics against the local terrorist and pirate forces they have encountered. Additionally, Bandit Group T is quickly emerging as a formidable new threat on Penros 7. These terrorist groups appear to have currently fought each other to a temporary standstill, and they appear to be developing a close and fierce rivalry with one another - further investigation is required into the possibility of exploiting this potential animosity. 

Unfortunately, given both terrorist groups contain practitioners of 'Nurgle' type theism, it is highly likely that this emerging feud will lead to both sides escalating to the widespread and reckless use of biological weapons of mass destruction, including indiscriminate biological warfare against civilian targets. Rapid distribution of additional medical supplies and equipment to endangered sectors, as well as mass distribution of additional vaccines and antibiotics to the civilian population, is now critically imperative. Additional outbreak containment drills and quarantine protocol tests will also be necessary. We absolutely MUST move quickly to ensure this nightmare scenario does not come to pass. 

Priority assignment of [D A T A  R E D A C T E D] to search-and-destroy missions to locate and dismantle any laboratories or production facilities for biological weapons and any existing stockpiles of biological weapons of mass destruction is also highly recommended. 

These are two highly dangerous terrorist organisations. Neither can be allowed to gain significant power. Neither of them should be underestimated. 

--FILE CLOSED--