5: The Scientific Nature of the Whammy

transport.control origin: <none specified> destin: transport.control ref: launch facility stamp: <none specified> This place fits the Commander's pattern. It is a launch facility for his heavy armor vehicles. There are two power sources, one at each end of the facility. You must disable both to open the security doors leading to the launch area. Unfortunately the image of source 1 is incomplete, but the general idea should be clear.

transport.control origin: <none specified> destin: transport.control ref: launch facility stamp: <none specified> However, both sources are protected by magnetic shields powered by a third source, which also supplies power to the blast doors. This third power source can be accessed by teleporter, but you'll have to find an alternate way in and out when the power is off. Once both have been destroyed, report to the far end of the main transport tunnel. Good luck.

launch.oversight origin: <none specified> destin: launch.oversight ref: possible hijack stamp: <none specified> I hadn't anticipated this. Your actions have interrupted the launch of one of the Commander's armor vehicles. It has been halted at stage 6 and awaits only a pilot and an official go-ahead. Authorization is granted throught he door to your left. You can then board the vehicle through the tower to your right. The controls are somewhat different from what you're used to. I'll try to insert additional information into your on-board briefing prior to launch.

unit.control origin: briefing.downlink destin: unit.control ref: launch checklist stamp: orders Enemy incursion in progress at [data of unrecognized form]. Proceed to location provided and engage enemy. Launch initiating at 10 ts Launch initiating at 9 ts Launch initiating at 8 ts Launch initiating at 7 ts Launch halted by external command { addendum received } { displaying }

unit.control origin: <none specified> destin: unit.control ref: launch checklist stamp: addendum Good, you're aboard. Now there are a few things you'll have to know about the controls for this type of vehicle. You'll be using the backup manual controls, since you lack the necessary glands to pilot that craft properly. However, for some obscure bureaucratic reason, the altitude and acceleration controls have no backups. I believe the source of this problem is a Pfhor report on the costs/benefits of the various controls available. Anyway, you'll have a fairly limited ability to maneuver but the vehicle's brute strength should more than compensate.

unit.control origin: <none specified> destin: unit.control ref: launch checklist stamp: addendum I'll restart the launch when you exit this terminal. You won't be able to control the vehicle for some time; this is normal. Once the main launch door opens at the end of the transport rail, I'll be cut off and you'll have to fly it alone. Good luck.