Briefing texts (FS1-Act1)

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WARNING: This article contains spoilers for the following storylines: FreeSpace 1

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Note that the texts may or may not contain the original Volition spelling due to Wiki spellcheckers.

FreeSpace Briefing Texts
FreeSpace 1 (Act 1) - FreeSpace 1 (Act 2) - FreeSpace 1 (Act 3) Silent Threat - Silent Threat: Reborn - Operation Templar FreeSpace 2 (Act 1) - FreeSpace 2 (Act 2) - FreeSpace 2 (Act 3)

Eve of Destruction

Mission Filename: sm1-01a.fsm

Command Briefing

Stage 1

GTD Galatea

Betelgeuse System

1/10/35

Operation Thresher

Operation Thresher in the Antares system did not proceed as planned. Terran Command estimates Terran losses at 504 pilots dead, fourteen missing and presumed dead.

The Vasudan foothold on Vasuda Prime and the subspace node remains solid. However, their supply lines have been cut off, which means they are most likely lacking reinforcements and supplies.

Expect more news on that front in tomorrow's briefing.

Stage 2

Rumors

There have been many rumors about the appearance of another sentient species. These are rumors, nothing more. Investigation of the Ross 128 attack has determined nothing.

Concern yourselves with the known enemy, the Vasudans. There is to be no more talk of phantom ships.

Stage 3

New Pilots

Let this serve as a "welcome aboard" to all newly-arrived pilots aboard the Galatea. Since you're here, your flight records must speak highly of you already. Serve the Galatea well, she's a fine ship.

Report to your flight stations at 0830 for your squadron briefings.

Stage 4

Technologies

Familiarize yourself with the specifications of the GTD Orion-class destroyer, the Apollo Space Superiority Fighter, and the ML-16 Laser. Information on all of these can be found in the Tech Room.

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

Pilot Attend: Welcome to the GTD Galatea. Your first assignment as a part of the Galatea's crew is to stand the 3rd watch. You will patrol the area surrounding the GTC Orff. The GTC Orff suffered an engine breakdown in the Betelgeuse system, and is awaiting repairs.

Stage 2

You will be on watch with one other ship, Alpha 2. Since this is your first watch, Alpha 2 will be piloted by Lt. Harbison, a seasoned veteran and top-notch pilot.

Stage 3

You will begin your watch by jumping to Betelgeuse near the GTC Orff

Stage 4

We have reports of Vasudan fighters in this system, so stay alert. Engage and destroy any hostiles that threaten the Orff.

Stage 5

At the end of your watch, you will be relieved by Delta wing. Upon Delta's arrival, you are to return to base.

Stage 6

Your primary objective will be to protect the Orff until the end of your watch. We expect you to carry out your orders to the letter.

Stage 7

You may confirm your ship hardware and weapons loadout for this mission. If found satisfactory, commit to the mission. GTD Galatea quarterdeck signing off.

Debriefing

Stage 1

The GTC Orff was destroyed during your watch. Dozens of lives were lost due to your poor performance. This catastrophe will surely result in an increased Vasudan presence in the system.

There is no place for you in the GTA. You are dismissed.

Stage 2

You did a fine job on your first watch, Pilot. Your strong sense of duty will serve the Alliance well.

The presence of Vasudans in this system gives us little reason to worry. The ships that attacked you and the Orff were probably remnants of the Vasudan convoy that we hit last week.

Stage 3

Despite your efforts, Vasudan fighters escaped from the system. When we allow them to elude us, Pilot, we appear weak. We won't tolerate this sort of embarassment again.

Stage 4

We are saddened to learn of Lieutenant Harbison's demise. He was a brave and skillful pilot. A memorial service will be held at 0930. You are ordered to attend.

Stage 5

You left the field of battle before your watch was ended. This act of cowardice will stain your record for the rest of your military career.

You are suspended from flight duty. Dismissed.

The Field of Battle

Mission Filename: sm1-02a.fsm

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

There have been a number of recent attacks by the Vasudans in the Betelgeuse system. They have been making strikes on Terran convoys en route to the Betelgeuse-Antares jump point. The Vasudan attacks have been staged from a nearby asteroid field.

Stage 2

Terran Intelligence is certain that there are four small attack wings responsible for the attacks on our convoys. There have also been reports of a Vasudan ace piloting one of the Seth class fighters in that area.

Stage 3

Terran Intelligence is certain that there are four small attack wings responsible for the attacks on our convoys.

Stage 4

You are to sweep the asteroid field and take out the four Vasudan attack wings. Be aware that the asteroids will be causing interference with your sensors. You won't be able to target the Vasudans until they are near, but they won't see you either.

Stage 5

If you encounter the Vasudan ace, you may use your discretion as to whether or not to engage him. Keep in mind that your primary objective is to take out the four attack wings. Check your loadouts and commit when ready.

Debriefing

Stage 1

Nicely done, pilot. By destroying the Vasudan attack wings you have helped to ensure that our convoys will make it through this subspace node.

Stage 2

Dispatching the Vasudan Ace showed outstanding skill, pilot. You and your squad are to be commended.

Stage 3

We are awarding you the Distinguished Flying Cross for this accomplishment.

Stage 4

Since you were unable to take out the Vasudan attack wings, other pilots will need to risk their lives to do your job. We need results from pilots like you if we expect to keep a foothold in these systems. Dismissed!

Stage 5

We understand that you did not engage the Vasudan Ace. It is understandable, given the skill of your opponent. Still, it would have been a blow to the Vasudans' morale if he had been defeated.

Small Deadly Space

Mission Filename: sm1-03a.fsm

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

Terran Intelligence has detected unusual activity in the Vasudan cargo depot at Antares. You are to destroy all hostiles in the area. When the area is clear, our salvage crews will pick up the cargo for analysis. Do not destroy any cargo.

Stage 2

The contents of the cargo containers is not known. Due to the unusual activity, GTA intelligence suspects they have military value.

• Note: in the Descent:FreeSpace demo a disabled entry exists alongside the above. The entry, likely an earlier version, is slightly different, mentioning the potential existence of weapons in the depot, perhaps to give the player an incentive to scan the containers. As to why the entry was changed, and whether it has been voiced, remains unknown.

The content of the cargo containers is unknown. GTA Intelligence suspects the existence of weapons, but it is more likely that they contain routine medical and food supplies.

Stage 3

You will be flying this mission with Epsilon wing from the 3rd squadron. Delta wing will be available for reinforcements, if necessary. If you get in trouble, don't hesitate to call them in.

Stage 4

Reconnaissance missions have determined that there are typically two wings of Vasudan fighters guarding the depot. The fighters are your primary concern.

Stage 5

Recon has also determined that this depot is heavily used. Taking control of it will seriously impede Vasudan attacks from this system in the future.

Stage 6

It is likely that there will be freighters in the area transporting cargo. All Vasudan vessels must be destroyed! None must escape as they will surely bring reinforcements.

Stage 7

Expect to find armed freighters in the area transporting cargo. All Vasudan vessels must be destroyed! None must escape as they would surely bring reinforcements.

Stage 8

Once you have secured the area, the GTC Orff will arrive and maintain watch over the outpost. Good luck, pilot. GTA Command out.

Debriefing

Stage 1

The destruction of the Vasudan fighters was very important. Not only have we gained control of that depot but we've shown the Vasudans in this sector we are not to be trifled with.

Stage 2

Elimination of the Vasudan freighters will hinder the transport of necessary supplies to their forces in that sector.

Stage 3

All Vasudan cargo was captured and brought to our base. Intelligence will analyze it.

Stage 4

It appears that among the cargo were some stolen weapons prototypes. We had feared that the Vasudans had already found and moved them from the area. Recapturing the weapons would have been a great victory.

Stage 5

Because the Vasudan freighters escaped, we can expect their forces to be on the alert in this system. This is a serious failure, pilot.

Stage 6

Some of the cargo containers were lost in the skirmish. The salvage crews recovered what they could. The GTA will analyze the container contents in the hope that it will aid us in the war.

Stage 7

It appears there weren't many Vasudan reinforcements available. It is fortunate that you were able to destroy them.

Stage 8

It appears that the Terran Elysium transport (Omega) hauled away the contents of one of the containers. We are not sure who was aboard the transport, but Intelligence suspects it's a group of renegade humans. We are attempting to locate the transport now.

Stage 9

You were ordered to secure the area until the GTC Orff arrived. You failed. The GTA would be better off giving you and your squadron desk jobs.

Avenging Angels

Mission Filename: sm1-04a.fsm

Command Briefing

Stage 1

GTD Galatea

Antares System

1/15/35

Lt. McCarthy

Terran Command has informed us that Lt. Alex McCarthy, formerly stationed onboard the GTD Intrepid, has defected to the Vasudans along with an unknown number of fighters and several personnel.

He has also managed to steal the plans for the Avenger prototype cannon. These need to be recovered immediately.

Vasudan agents under Terran control have leaked information regarding McCarthy's plans to the Antares system. Since the Galatea is already in Antares, we have been assigned to lead an attack on McCarthy's forces.

Stage 2

This operation is to be carried out by the numbers. Traitors to the Terran cause are not to be tolerated. McCarthy will serve as an example when he is brought in.

Stage 3

New Technology: Valkyrie Interceptor

The Galatea has received a full complement of the new Valkyrie Interceptor Fighters.

Some of you may remember the Angel Scout Fighter. It has been completely modified and fitted with two additional engines, making it the fastest fighter in the fleet. It has been re-designated the Valkyrie. It should enable you to make short work of enemy fighters.

Report for mission briefing in twenty minutes.

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

Plans for the Avenger weapon prototype have been stolen by Lt. McCarthy. His transport has been located here in Antares. It has been designated Omega.

Stage 2

One of McCarthy's accomplices has been captured, and has revealed his intentions for the stolen plans. Not surprisingly, McCarthy intends to sell the Avenger to the Vasudans. His Vasudan contact has been designated Rasputin.

Stage 3

Your squadron will arrive before the exchange takes place. You are to destroy all hostile fighters, including any renegade Terrans. However, we want McCarthy alive. Your ships have been equipped with Disruptors suitable for disabling the engines on the Omega.

Stage 4

Alpha wing and Beta wing, each consisting of four fighters, will be sent in to carry out the mission. You will jump in approximately six kilometers away from the exchange. Get to the Omega as soon as possible.

Stage 5

Expect to encounter significant resistance. Beta wing will focus on attacking the Vasudan forces. Alpha wing will be expected to disable the Omega. Request Beta wing's assistance if necessary.

Stage 6

After McCarthy's transport is disabled, the GTT Comet will jump into the area and dock with it. You are to ensure the safety of the Comet, especially during the docking operation with Omega.

Stage 7

After the Comet and the Omega have left the area, it is your responsibility to eliminate any remaining hostiles. Once the area is clear, you are to jump back to the Galatea.

Stage 8

Note that you will be required to engage Terran pilots. These pilots are traitors to the Alliance, and no quarter should be given. Thousands of lives are at stake. Do not hesitate to use deadly force on the traitors. They are your enemy.

Stage 9

If you encounter significant resistance or experience severe losses, Delta wing will be sent by Terran Command to assist. If further assistance is needed, call in Epsilon wing, as well. Good luck, pilot.

Debriefing

Stage 1

We wanted McCarthy taken alive, Pilot. Your squad's lack of control is disturbing. We are not pleased with this.

Stage 2

We were able to recover the Avenger prototype. Good job. McCarthy has been apprehended and will go to trial soon.

Stage 3

We were not able to recover the stolen Avenger prototype. This was your primary objective, and you failed.

The Vasudans will surely use this against us in future encounters.

Stage 4

This section has been removed

Stage 5

Intelligence has told us that you were cautious and managed to disable the Rasputin. Key Vasudan personnel were on board, and their capture will assist our cause.

This was an intelligent decision on your part, and you are to be commended for your attention to detail.

Intelligence has requested that you be awarded a Commendation Medal for your part in this capture.

Stage 6

Unfortunately, the Rasputin got away from us. This is not a major loss, but every Vasudan that escapes will cost us in the long run.

Stage 7

The Rasputin and all of its contents were destroyed. Excellent work. It is very likely that key Vasudan personnel were on board.

Out of the Dark, Into the Night

Mission Filename: sm1-05a.fsm

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

With the Antares system nearly secure, Command has decided that the GTSC Plato will carry the prototype for the Avenger Attack Cannon through the Antares system. It will proceed to the Ribos system, where production of the Avenger will begin.

Stage 2

Intelligence has determined that only one Vasudan Cruiser remains in this system, the Taurus. If the Vasudans decide to attack the Plato on its way to Ribos, they will certainly use the Taurus.

Stage 3

The number of Vasudan attack craft in this system is minimal. Intelligence estimates at most two strike squads. If something should go wrong, the Plato is equipped with an escape pod. The escape pod will attempt to make the subspace jump to Ribos.

Stage 4

Alpha wing will provide cover for the Plato, and, if necessary, the Plato's Escape Pod. The safety of the prototype is vital, and all Vasudan threats must be eliminated.

Stage 5

Pay special attention to any Vasudan bombers that may arrive. Bombers will be the greatest threat to the Plato during this operation.

Stage 6

When you've cleared the area of hostile bombers, eliminate other threats and continue escorting the Plato to the intersystem subspace node.

Debriefing

Stage 1

Your inability to protect the crew of the Plato and the prototype for the Avenger cannon has dealt a serious blow to the GTA.

Perhaps you'll meet your new primary objective: cleaning the heads on the Galatea.

Stage 2

From your ship's sensor's records, it appears there was little you could have done to protect the Plato. Its loss will be mourned, but at least her crew is safe.

Stage 3

Intelligence has analyzed the data you provided from the attempted visual identification. There is no record of such ships. They do not appear to be Vasudan. The conclusion is that they belong to a new species.

These ships are not detectable by our sensors. Worse, they appear to have some type of energy-shielding system, making them nearly immune to our attacks.

But the greatest concern is their weapons. They are more powerful than anything in the GTA or VPE arsenal.

We believe the data you gathered will prove valuable in discovering a weakness in this new adversary.

Stage 4

It is regrettable you were not able to gain a visual identification of the unknown ships. During subsequent attacks, Intelligence has gathered limited information.

These ships do not appear to be Vasudan. The conclusion is that they belong to a new species.

The ships are not detectable by our sensors. Worse, they appear to have some type of energy-shielding system, making them nearly immune to our attacks.

But the greatest concern is their weapons. They are more powerful than anything in the GTA or VPE arsenal.

We are confident our scientists will soon discover a weakness in this new adversary.

Stage 5

In all of their recent attacks in Terran Space, not one of these unknown fighters has been destroyed. It is hoped that a weakness will be found soon.

Stage 6

In all of their recent attacks in Terran Space, not one of these unknown fighters had been destroyed.

Your destruction of one of these new enemies has already boosted morale. Well done, Pilot.

Paving the Way

Mission Filename: sm1-06a.fsm

Command Briefing

Stage 1

GTD Galatea

Antares System

1/18/35

The Shivans

Terran Command has confirmed the existence of a new species. Until further contact is established, Command has designated them "Shivans".

The Shivans have inflicted heavy casualties to both Terran and Vasudan forces in the Beta Cygni and Vega systems, and appear to be making a rapid push into other key systems along the Terran-Vasudan front. All contact has been lost with our forces in the Ikeya and Ross 128 systems.

Stage 2

The Vasudans

The Vasudan government has contacted the GTA and proposed a cease fire. Considering the reports regarding the Vasudan and Terran losses to the Shivans, this should not come as a surprise.

Terran Command has not yet responded.

Expect to hear more from Terran Command on this later today.

Stage 3

Hostile Contacts

All Shivan forces should be considered a serious threat.

You are authorized to engage any Shivan ship that stands in the way of your mission objectives.

Attempts to establish communication with the Shivans have failed. Intelligence will continue its attempts to learn more about this new adversary.

Stage 4

Shivan Technologies

What little information has been learned about Shivan technology concerns their fighter shielding system. This shield system makes them nearly impervious to our ML-16 Laser.

R&D is currently modifying the Avenger Prototype cannon to make it more useful against the shields.

Additionally, our fighters cannot target their ships due to our lack of data regarding the Shivan electronics systems. Plans are currently underway to remedy this situation.

Stage 5

Orders

Terran Intelligence is working around the clock to give us more information.

Until then, we have been ordered to move into the Beta Cygni system and monitor any activity.

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

Due to increased encounters with Shivan forces, Terran Command has ordered the Galatea to the Beta Cygni system to monitor Shivan activity. The Galatea has taken quite a beating since her last repair, and there isn't time to follow the safest route.

Stage 2

The Antares-Beta Cygni Jump Node lies in the center of a dense asteroid field, making it one of the least used Jump Nodes in the galaxy. Standard procedure would have us circumvent this node completely, requiring two jumps. Now we have no choice.

Stage 3

Weapons systems have taken damage from enemy bombers. The Galatea should be able to make it through the Asteroid Field, but Alpha wing will be deployed to destroy approaching asteroids.

Stage 4

Alpha Wing will fly point for the Galatea and destroy any asteroids that cross its flight path.

Stage 5

Asteroids that are considered a threat to the Galatea will be marked by white targeting brackets. Destroy these asteroids first.

Stage 6

Once the Galatea has jumped out, you are to report to the GTD Bastion, stationed in Antares. The Bastion will take you to Ikeya for your next mission. Your wing will rendezvous with the Galatea in Beta Cygni upon completion of that mission.

Stage 7

In the event of enemy attack, you are to cover the Galatea's escape from the system at any cost.

Debriefing

Stage 1

Abandoning the Galatea in an asteroid field was an inexplicable act of cowardice. The Galatea has been destroyed and you are to blame. You are hereby stripped of all rank and duties.

Stage 2

The destruction of the Galatea is a major loss for the Terran Alliance.

Thousands of lives were lost due to your poor execution.

Perhaps this task should have been given to a more skilled pilot. You are hereby stripped of all rank and duties in the GTA.

Stage 3

The Galatea made it to Beta Cygni, but our reports show it took serious damage. It will be in repair for at least three days.

It's a pity you couldn't better protect it, but what's done is done. Report to briefing at 0800.

Stage 4

Welcome to the GTD Bastion.

We just received a transmission from the Galatea. She's doing fine and the bridge thanks you for the skillful escort through the field.

You will rendezvous with her in the Beta Cygni system soon. We are currently under way to the Ikeya system for your next mission.

Stage 5

For your excellence in destroying the Shivan fighter while escorting the Plato, as well as your successful escort of the Galatea in the asteroid field, we are awarding you the Distinguished Flying Cross. Wear it proudly.

Pandora's Box

Mission Filename: sm1-07a.fsm

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

Welcome to the GTD Bastion. The Bastion is on a special ops mission to investigate and acquire Shivan technology. This includes weaponry, shielding, and stealth technology. Intelligence has determined that at least one point of Shivan entry into our space lies in the Ikeya system.

Stage 2

At least five cargo depots of unknown origin have been located here in Ikeya. These cargo formations are different than any Vasudan and Terran formation, and are believed to belong to the Shivans.

Stage 3

Reconnaissance indicates that the depot is protected by six sentry guns on the outer edges. This depot provides a prime opportunity to gather more information about the Shivans. Their offensive activity in this system is at a minimum, and we do not believe that they will make a serious attempt to defend this depot.

Stage 4

Long range scanners indicate that some of these cargo containers contain unusual electronics. They appear to be similar to those used to give the Shivans their shielding technology. A short range scan of these containers is the primary objective in this operation.

Stage 5

Further reconnaissance indicates another container group may contains parts for a Shivan sensor array. A short range scan of this group should provide crucial data needed to adjust ship sensors to attain radar lock on Shivan fighters. Scanning those containers is your secondary objective.

Stage 6

You will jump in approximately six kilometers from the cargo depot. Proceed to the cargo depot quickly, and eliminate all sentry guns. This will enable our freighters to collect the cargo after you have scanned it.

Debriefing

Stage 1

Jumping out of a mission without even making an attempt to complete your objectives is gross negligence and borders on desertion.

Your hearing is scheduled for 0700.

Stage 2

Despite the Shivan ambush, you had a mission to accomplish. Your orders were to remain in the area, unless ordered to leave by Terran Command.

Your defiance of these orders has wasted a prime opportunity.

Stage 3

It is fortunate that you were able to escape the Shivan trap. Your persistence in obtaining the data we needed is commendable.

While you were unable to gather the shield data, another of our Ikeya task forces was successful in acquiring it.

The data you did gather about Shivan sensor technology will be vital in combating the Shivan forces. Our technicians now believe they will be able to implement a targeting solution for Shivan ships.

Good work, pilot.

Stage 4

Your success in acquiring the shield technology against such overwhelming odds has indicated to us that you are, in truth, working with the Shivans. Your interrogation is scheduled for 0930. You will be escorted to the brig.

The Hammer and the Anvil

Mission Filename: sm1-08a.fsm

Command Briefing

Stage 1

GTD Galatea

Beta Cygni System

1/25/35

Cease Fire

The GTA has signed a cease-fire and non-aggression pact with the Vasudans.

Command has already expressed great relief, largely due to the huge drain on military and economic resources the war has caused in the past few years.

The end of a 14-year war should bring peace. Unfortunately there is no time to breathe easy.

After the 3rd Fleet lost the GTD Amadeus in the Vega system, the GTA and the Parliament of Vasuda have both declared open states of war against the Shivan forces.

Stage 2

Vasudan Dissent

Unfortunately, not all Vasudan forces have agreed to the cease-fire. Reports have been received of attacks by a rogue group of Vasudans calling themselves the "Hammer of Light."

Hammer of Light (HOL) appears to be willfully aiding the Shivan cause, citing some Vasudan legend about the coming of an all-powerful race.

If you encounter any HOL forces, you are to treat them as hostile and are to use any force necessary to neutralize them.

Stage 3

New Technology: Shivan Tracking

With the vital data gathered by the Galatea at the Ikeya Depot, our technicians now know enough about Shivan technology to successfully target their ships. You should also be able to track them on radar.

Stage 4

New Technology: Avenger Cannon

The Avenger Cannon is now being loaded on every Terran and Vasudan ship in the Galaxy. You will find these cannons far more effective against the Shivan shields.

New Technology: Shield System

A strike squad sent from the 5th fleet into the Ikeya system was able to recover some Shivan shield prototypes. Fully functioning versions of this technology are being developed for use on GTA fighters.

The shields themselves are being transferred through the Beta Cygni system to the Ribos system. This shipment must arrive in Ribos.

Report to mission briefing in 30 minutes.

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

At roughly 1400 hours a large convoy carrying one of our newly developed shield prototypes was deployed. It was expected that the Shivans would attack the convoy.

Stage 2

The Shivans destroyed the convoy. What the Shivans do not know is that the convoy was a decoy. There were a total of four working prototypes, only one of which was destroyed.

Stage 3

You are to take two wings of fighters to escort the three remaining shield prototypes. The Shivans should think you are just another shipment headed for Beta Cygni. This is not the direct route to Earth, which should divert the Shivans from our true intent.

Stage 4

You are to accompany the freighters until the Vasudans arrive to escort them on the second leg. Do not leave the freighters until they have jumped to the Beta Cygni system.

Stage 5

The Shivans have hit everything sent from this installation. Expect resistance. Many pilots lost their lives today that the chances for success on this mission would be greater. You will succeed. Dismissed.

Debriefing

Stage 1

You did a superb job defending the shield prototypes. You were able to save all three, which not only gives us the technology, but will help expedite its mass production.

Your performance will go down in the books as a standard for future pilots to follow. Simply outstanding, pilot!

In appreciation of your fine performance in our first operation with allied Vasudans, we are awarding you the Vasudan Alliance Medal.

Stage 2

Well done, pilot! You were able to get two of the three shield prototypes out of harm's way and off to the scientists back on Earth.

Your efforts today will certainly even the odds a bit with the Shivans. Great job!

Stage 3

Good work, pilot. Saving one of the shield prototypes from being destroyed was as much as could be hoped for. You should be proud.

Stage 4

Your inability to save even one shield prototype from destruction gives the GTA little chance of winning this war.

You are responsible for this failure.

Stage 5

You have disobeyed direct orders by trying to save that Vasudan convoy! You were told to stay with the shield prototypes at all times!

Do you think the original shield prototype convoy wasn't worth saving? Pilots made great sacrifices so that you could succeed, and you simply failed to follow orders!

At 0800 hours tomorrow morning you will have to explain your actions in a court martial!

The Darkness and the Light

Mission Filename: sm1-09.fsm

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

The radical Vasudan splinter group known as the Hammer of Light has been conducting many surprise attacks on convoys throughout Beta Cygni. These attacks must be stopped. The Hammer of Light presence is to be eliminated from this system once and for all.

Stage 2

A Hammer of Light cargo depot which is believed to be the primary supply center for all Hammer of Light activities in the system has been located.

Stage 3

This depot is guarded by a wing of Seth class fighters as well as an Aten class cruiser, the Ramses. The Hammer of Light does not have shielding technology, so this operation should be simple.

Stage 4

Your primary objective is to capture the Aten cruiser Ramses. You are to disable and disarm it with Disruptor cannons, then protect the Omega transports while they capture it.

Stage 5

Do not destroy the Ramses. The crew of the Ramses will be interrogated to learn more about the Hammer of Light.

Stage 6

Once the Ramses has been disabled and disarmed, destroy all cargo in the area. The Hammer of Light can not be permitted to resupply. The containers store Vasudan supplies useless to the GTA.

Stage 7

You are to lead Alpha wing on this operation. Your ships are equipped with our new shielding system. In case of any unforeseen problems, await further orders from Command.

Debriefing

Stage 1

You left the battle well before there was any chance of capturing the Ramses. Were your orders not specific enough?

Dismissed.

Stage 2

You destroyed the Ramses. You were ordered to capture it. Disobeying orders is unacceptable.

Stage 3

Unfortunately, the Taranis has been interfering with all operations in the Beta Cygni system.

The destruction of the Ramses, while unfortunate, was not your fault. It is good that you destroyed the cargo before the Shivans were able to capture it.

Stage 4

Although the Taranis prevented you from capturing the Ramses, allowing the Shivans to capture the cargo is a serious blow to the safety of this system.

Stage 5

The destruction of the escaping freighters is important. The Hammer of Light will have a difficult time starting up their Beta Cygni operations again without supplies.

Stage 6

It is disturbing that the Hammer of Light fighters have shield technology after all.

It seems that this rebellion is far greater in scope than we had initially hoped.

Stage 7

The destruction of the Taranis is a serious blow. Its capture could have provided a wealth of information on the Shivans. You were ordered NOT to engage the Taranis cruiser, pilot.

You are grounded until you learn to listen to orders.

First Strike

Mission Filename: sm-10.fsm

Command Briefing

Stage 1

GTD Galatea

Ikeya System

1/31/35

The Taranis

Initial attacks have gone off without a hitch, and the Taranis is on her last leg. Delta and Epsilon wings have destroyed most of the Taranis' fighter escort. It is time to finish the job.

To this end, Terran Command has sent a full wing of Athena bombers, equipped with the newly developed Stiletto bomb .

Stage 2

New Technology: Athena Bomber

The Athena is our most maneuverable bomber. It carries a massive payload, yet, in dogfights, is nearly as effective as a fighter.

Stage 3

New Technology: Stiletto Space Bomb

The Stiletto bomb has now been thoroughly tested back in Sol and is now ready for use. It can be used to destroy subsystems on any ship and should prove more effective than the Disruptor cannon. The electronics seeking device should make it simple to use. Just point and shoot.

Stiletto homing capabilities are limited, so make sure you get a clean shot before you launch. The Stiletto should be especially useful in destroying the Taranis' engines and weapons systems.

All Athena bombers will be equipped with Stilettos and will be piloted by Alpha wing.

Mission Briefing

Stage 1

The Cain-class cruiser Taranis has been chased from the Beta Cygni system back to the Ikeya system. It is low on supplies, and, due to recent engagements, it is lightly guarded.

Stage 2

The Cain-class cruiser Taranis has begun its counterattack. Although we destroyed most of its fighter escort, it managed to call in a repair craft. It is now nearly fully functional.

Stage 3

Long range sensors indicate that only two fighters and three bombers remain to protect the Taranis.

Stage 4

The Taranis is heading for the Beta Cygni subspace node, where it will probably resupply. This will allow for a small window of opportunity in which to conduct a strike.

Stage 5

The Taranis is heading for the Beta Cygni subspace node, where we expect it to mount an offensive. This only allows a small window of opportunity in which to conduct a preemptive strike.

Stage 6

Your primary objective is to disable and disarm the Taranis in order to enable its capture. This will be our first attempt to capture a major Shivan vessel. Three wings will be assigned to this task.

Stage 7

Alpha Wing will be flying Athena bombers. These bombers just arrived on the Galatea and are equipped with the new Stiletto bomb . The Stiletto is capable of destroying subsystems in one hit. Alpha's primary responsibility will be to disarm and disable the Taranis.

Stage 8

Beta Wing is assigned to escort Alpha and protect it from fighter attacks. Beta will fly Apollo-class fighters.

Stage 9

Gamma wing will fly Valkyries and should engage any hostile fighters and bombers in the area. If needed elsewhere, they can be assigned to any task that you see fit.

Stage 10

Once the Taranis has been disarmed and disabled, Omega transports will arrive and capture it. When the Taranis has been captured, you are to return to the Galatea for debriefing.

Stage 11

Do not allow the Taranis to escape or be destroyed.

Good luck.

Debriefing

Stage 1

The purpose of this mission was to capture a major Shivan vessel for analysis. It was imperative to the war effort. Your failure is unforgivable.

Perhaps one day you will learn that the consequences of your actions affect others. Until that time, you are dismissed from all duties.

Stage 2

The Taranis has escaped to the Beta Cygni system.

Not only has the chance to capture a Shivan cruiser been lost, but the Taranis is certain to wreak havoc in other systems.

Stage 3

You departed before ensuring the capture of the Taranis. The Omega transports you left unprotected were destroyed by Shivan fighters.

Our hopes of capturing the Taranis were ruined by your carelessness.

Your career is over, Pilot.

Stage 4

You departed before ensuring the capture of the Taranis. The Omega transports you left unprotected were destroyed by Shivan fighters.

Our hopes of capturing the Taranis were ruined by your carelessness.

Your career is over, pilot.

Stage 5

Congratulations, Alpha 1. You were instrumental in the first capture of a major Shivan vessel!

The Halkins is taking her to the Tombaugh station, where engineers will be able to study their technology and learn more about their methods and motives.

Meanwhile, feel free to relax for a few days. You deserve it.

In recognition of your continuing service to the GTA, you have been awarded the Medal of Good Conduct.

FreeSpace 1 Briefing Texts

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