ADVENT | HISTORY

THE REVENANT PROGRAM

"Let the last thing they see be our soldiers marching from the dead, commanded by those thought lost. They do not need to feel fear at what they see – but they should dread the knowledge that whom they condemn to death we can return to the battle."

- Dr. Gavin Archer, Lead Scientist of the Revenant Program

ADVENT Media Record 2736443 | Audio Transcript

Participants: ARCHER, Gavin; MERCADO, Feng; PATRIOT

[Gavin Archer]: [Rustling of paper; noticeable disapproval] "This is not good enough. The Project has been in 'development' for several months. It needs to move forward."

[Feng Mercado]: [Resignation] "So say three dozen other projects that all claim to be just as critical as yours."

[GA]: "And how many of them make a material impact on the war effort, employ otherwise non-viable personnel, and may springboard an entirely new scientific field?"

[FM]: [Dry] "Three."

[GA]: [Incredulous; disbelieving] "Really. How many of those have detailed research plans, chosen and interested personnel and staff, and individuals with the capability to realistically achieve their stated goals within a reasonable timeframe?"

[FM]: [Sigh] "I'm not disputing your capability, Dr. Archer, I'm disputing the need."

[GA]: "I'm not asking you for the world. I'm asking you for me to prove it will work; that it has value, but I can't do that if it remains stuck in the conception stage."

[FM]: "You're asking for a lot. You've suggested your project to serve as a testbed for TZU, a test subject allocation three times the normal amount, and this is not even getting into the raw monetary cost."

[GA]: "I get results. I've never failed a project, and I don't intend to start now."

[FM]: "Which is the only reason I'm considering this - That should tell you how hard a sell it will be."

[GA]: [Snort] "This is ADVENT. Since when have resources been an issue?"

[FM]: [Frustration] "That perception has done more damage to ADVENT than any Collective propaganda. It is why I have a dozen scientists and engineers yelling at me daily because I don't approve their special pet projects. To make it clear, Archer, ADVENT does not have unlimited resources, time, or personnel. If we want to get specific, we only have one Gavin Archer."

[GA]: "I am well aware I have my pick of projects. I'm choosing this one. That must count for something."

[FM]: "It does, but there are at least a half-dozen projects that could use your expertise that would have a marked and immediate impact on the war effort or civilian life. It doesn't help that your project revolves around taking soldiers who should frankly be retired and using them as weapons. And you've only identified a small number of soldiers that fit this criteria."

[GA]: "Those other projects don't need me. They are simple compared to this. Others are more than capable."

[FM]: [Mild amusement] "That is perhaps the most humble I've ever heard you. Again, I have no doubt you would succeed, Archer. That isn't the dispute. The dispute is if it will be worth the investment of manhours and resources. What exactly are the Revenants going to provide that the Lancers cannot?"

[GA]: "Do you want-"

[FM]: "That was rhetorical, Archer, I know the greatest gain from this is potential knowledge. And I also know what you're really trying to get from this."

[Pause]

[GA]: "Do tell."

[FM]: "A proof-of-concept for Overlord."

[Elongated pause]

[GA]: "…How the hell do you know about Overlord. I've not even proposed-"

[FM]: "ADVENT always has someone watching, and they note interesting things."

[GA]: "…I suppose I did not expect PATRIOT to find my internal documentation worth reporting."

[PATRIOT]: [Pretend levity] "Considering the subject matter, Dr. Archer, I am surprised you would think it is something I would overlook."

[GA]: [Grumbling] "A fair point, I suppose. I am certain you can nonetheless see the utility?"

[Elongated pause]

[P]: "That is not my assessment to make. You are not authorized to receive immediate feedback concerning topics of theoretical nature."

[FM]: [Clarifying] "She fucking hates it, Archer."

[GA]: "Funny. First, it isn't even more than a draft on my workstation. Second, it isn't up to her."

[FM]: "I am aware. Personally, I find the Overlord concept…interesting, but let's both acknowledge that Revenant is a means to an end. Particularly that end."

[GA]: "Does that matter if the project succeeds?"

[FM]: "That depends on who you're talking to. It's not you that needs to brief the Chancellor on why we have our best scientist working on repurposing damaged psions to control augmented brain-dead soldiers instead of a project that, if we're being frank, had some more utility."

[GA]: "If you need me to speak to it-"

[FM]: "For your own good Archer, you should not explain anything. You're far too blunt to get them on your side."

[Pause]

[FM]: [Firm] "I don't want to put you on something you're not interested in, nor do I want to cause unnecessary issues. I'll support moving Revenant to proof-of-concept and testing stages – and that's it for now. What you get is what you get. Prove their worth, and no second chances. That's the most I can get for you without the Chancellor raising an eyebrow."

[GA]: [Relief] "That's all I need. You won't regret it."

[FM]: "It's not me you need to impress, Archer. I'll hope you prove my skepticism wrong. Send me a proper proposal – and make it good."

[GA]: "I intend on doing that. Thank you."

[FM]: "You've earned some benefit of the doubt. Good luck with it, Archer. And focus on one thing at a time – I don't want a single whiff of Overlord until Revenant is done. Is that clear?"

[GA]: "Very clear. You have my word."

[FM]: "Then that will be all."

Transcript ends.

ADVENT | PROGRAM PROPOSAL 015

Designation: The Revenant Program

Program Type: Special Forces | Psionic Military Unit | Psionic Research Division

Author: Dr. Gavin Archer

Approver: Chief Fang Mercado

INITIAL PROPOSAL: In ADVENT, pride is earned by accepting challenge, and producing the impossible. It is seeking to push the boundaries and think outside the conventional. This is a principle that ADVENT champions, but in practice many understandably pursue that which is known and accepted.

This project intends to take a risk, fulfill a need, shape the future of an entire field, and make a material impact on the war. It is a tall order – but one that we are confident can be fulfilled.

To consider the Revenant Program as merely a special psionic special forces unit would be doing a disservice to not just the soldiers, but the engineers and scientists who take part in it. We are not looking to simply use psionics, but harness and shape it in new, creative ways which push forward our understanding of psionics and the technology that employs it.

We are only just beginning to understand the intricacies of psionics, and throughout the war we have had psions who have suffered incapacitating injuries or are otherwise unable to contribute to the war effort. This offers them an opportunity, this offers ADVENT an avenue to retain some of their most powerful assets, and this offers ADVENT an opportunity to not only reach parity with the Ethereal Collective, but lead the psionic arms race.

OBJECTIVES AND MISSION: The Revenant Program is intended to have a trinity of foci. It is argued that the value in the Revenant Program is not just in the military capabilities it can project – but the innovation that will spawn from it. These are listed below.

RETAINMENT OF PSIONIC PERSONNEL: The core team of Revenants will be composed of psions who are currently unable to take part in military operations under ADVENT. These consist of some of ADVENT's strongest assets which are currently being wasted and sidelined.

This is a war where we cannot afford to let any asset of such power remain inactive – especially if they hold a clear interest in continuing to contribute.

ADVENT has the ability to not only harness these psions who would otherwise be rendered unusable, but also showcase their commitment to them in a way that is direct and tangible. Men and women who have joined this war will not be satisfied sitting it out.

We will give them purpose and a mission once again, and further advance ADVENT's objectives.

DEVELOPMENT OF PSIONIC TECHNOLOGY: Psionic technology is a field which has the potential to alter the course of the entire war – and though the Collective supposedly has an advantage, we have already shown that their technology is only marginally more advanced than ours.

We hold the capability to surpass the Collective in this critical field. The Revenant Program can be the tip of the spear in this effort.

This need not be the only division that handles such research, but we are certain that our discoveries and products already serve as a foundation for many more technologies down the line. Revenant will be on the cutting edge of this field, and our results and discoveries will demonstrate whenever possible that what is developed here will alter the course of the war.

AUGMENT MILITARY OPERATIONS: Research and development are critical to this program, but ADVENT expects actionable information and practical application. The Revenant Program will ultimately exist to help support ADVENT Military operations where deemed necessary. There are many who are skeptical of what Revenant can bring to the table.

What we will provide is a unit that is more versatile, capable, and dangerous per capita than any existing infantry or armor unit. This will not be proved through mere papers and presentations. Numbers and estimations can crumble in the field – so we will demonstrate Revenant's worth in the only place it matters - In the fires of war.

We are confident that the Revenants will emerge from this crucible victorious.

CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS

AUGMENTED SHELL PLATFORM: The Augmented Shell Platform or ASP as it will henceforth be referred to as is the process of total conversion of a Human into a cybernetic war machine. Without the limitations of biology and flesh, we are able to demonstrate how the Human body can be supplanted and weaponized in ways previously thought impossible.

Of course, the ASPs are constructed from the bodies of brain-dead individuals who have donated themselves to ADVENT, and thus allow us to pursue a degree of conversion that would be fatal or otherwise impossible to do in a healthy Human without significant consequences.

With this noted, it is important to note that in the creation of the ASP, we have gained significant knowledge on the best practices for cybernetic augmentation, which will allow us to conduct cybernetic augmentations at higher thresholds far safer in circumstances that do not entail total conversion.

ASP | REVENANT-CLASS: The first ASP model that has been developed is the Revenant-Class, which is an example of a Human form turned into a war platform. Taking inspiration from ADVENT's MDU, and XCOM's MEC programs, the Revenant is a cybernetic powerhouse bristling with armor, rockets, explosives, and guns.

It is a war machine that is designed to be able to take on the best of the Collective's forces, barring Ethereals, and come away the victor. The Revenant ASP is also unique in that its structure is modular. Revenants will be able to customize their loadouts for the needs of the mission, or even personal preference.

It possesses a degree of flexibility and firepower that simply cannot be replicated by Lancers or other special forces. This was designed to be the premier infantry unit in ADVENT – and we will ensure it retains this title throughout the entire war.

PSIONIC REVENANT AMPLIFIER PLATFORM: One of the core pieces of technology that makes Revenant function is the Psionic Revenant Amplifier Platform – which is a newly developed psionic technology which places a telepath in the driver seat, and allows them to project their control entire countries away.

A Revenant within an Amplifier Platform in Maine will be able to control their ASP in Minnesota. Or in the Himalayas, to China or India. This has allowed us to harness and direct telepathy to a degree far beyond originally thought. It allows the psion to be directly connected to it, or through specialized augments (detailed below)

While it is fixated on the Revenants and ASPs, the concept has been proven, and we believe it will serve as the foundation for a suite of new technologies in the future.

REVENANT CONNECTIVE AUGMENTATIONS: Designed in conjunction with the Amplifier Platform, these Connective Augmentations are designed to be integrated into Revenants to allow them to better connect to, and take advantage of the Amplifier Platform. It has been shown to increase control and sustainability by a few factors, and if possible we will have all Revenants undergo it.

However, it should be noted that these augmentations are not necessary for using the Amplifier Platform. They will only make it easier to use, and increase its capability, which is an option which should be available if the Revenant can utilize it.

INTERNAL ORGANIZATION: Within the Revenant Program, there are four distinct wings or divisions, all of whom are critical to the overall effectiveness of the Program. They are listed below.

REVENANTS: These are the psions, the Revenants, who are the ultimate core of the entire Program. Without the Revenants, there is no Program. Everything that is done is to empower and enable the Revenants to accomplish their mission. All Revenants will be telepaths of Magus-level or higher (We are not opposed to expansion for lower-TL tiers – but only after the Program has matured and expanded).

SPECIALIZED PERSONNEL SUPPORT: These are personnel whose role is to assist the Revenants in whatever form they need. As most Revenants are chosen due to their inability to effectively serve in more standard circumstances, each of them have a specialized set of needs, be they medical or psychological.

Each Revenant will be assigned to a few specialists, and are able to be supported by a general pool of support staff who will support the Revenant. These will include medical personnel, psychologists, and other personnel as necessary.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT: Anticipated to be the largest division of the Revenant Program, this is where the bulk of work will take place. Research and Development will be responsible for the creation and testing of all psionic, cybernetic, and war platform technologies utilized by the Revenants and integrated into ASPs.

Due to the specialized work, Research and Development will be one of the most elite research teams in ADVENT, with the ability to quickly design, implement, and refine high-quality work. Exact workflows and methodology are to be developed, and will be refined and scaled after initial formation.

REVENANT COMMAND INTEGRATION: The Revenants are ultimately intended to be integrated into military operations, and the most effective way to do so is embed a small ADVENT command element into the Program directly. Revenant Command Integration will be responsible for assigning Revenants to operations, providing the Program the needs of the Military, and providing feedback on ongoing or future developments.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT: While we are satisfied that our initial developments will serve as a proof-of-concept for what the Revenant Program can accomplish, it is also prudent to demonstrate that we have many ideas for future development which will give the military additional flexibility and power.

Provided the resources are provided, we are confident the Program will be able to produce the following.

ASP | POLTERGEIST-CLASS: If the Revenant-Class is intended to be a frontline soldier taken to the absolute peak of conversion, the Poltergeist-Class is built to be its subtler counterpart. A primary scout-infiltration specialist, it will be designed to be faster, stealthier, and with a stronger cyberwarfare capability.

The Poltergeist will be able to spy, infiltrate, assassinate, and conduct more subtle operations on their own, or in support of other operations. As this is a relatively simple concept, and built to compliment the Revenant-Class, this is likely to be the next ASP we are able to complete.

ASP | DULLAHAN-CLASS: This is one of the most ambitious ASP designs we have conceptualized, one we are admittedly unsure is possible. It is, in some ways, an evolution of the Revenant-Class, but I feel that downplays the mechanics of this proposal – which is in a word, transplanting the brain.

Due to the ASPs requiring a mind to control, it makes the head the most vulnerable part of the entire ASP, no matter what mitigations we attempt to employ. What the Dullahan would require is moving the brain into a more protected region in the body, such as the chest. The ASP needs no organs or bodily functions – but despite this, we have found that one cannot simply disconnect the brain and move it to a safer position.

As a result, much of this idea is reliant on advances in medical technology to allow this to be done without killing the brain for good. We believe that it is conceptually possible, but acknowledge that it may be too ambitious a project. Nonetheless, we remain ready to resolve this vulnerability and pursue this idea to completion, upon sufficient allocation of resources.

ASP | DEILDEGAST-CLASS: While almost all of the ASPs are built with the assumption that the Revenant will be controlling a singular ASP, the Deildegast-Class is conceptualized with the opposite assumption in mind. The Deildegast on its own will not be as augmented or impressive as the Revenant-Class – but it is not supposed to be.

This ASP is intended to be deployed in groups, with a single Revenant controlling them. They will be designed to be more easily controlled by a single mind, and allow the Revenant's reach to have significant expansion. However, these are not the best-suited for front-line operations, which is why they are designed to be an additional security measure for our most critical institutions and outposts.

These locations will receive a deployment of Deildegast ASPs, which will be stored as an emergency security force – and in the event they come under attack, they are only one Revenant away from activation, and subsequently, one of the most dangerous units of ADVENT at one's command. The concept is simple, even if we believe it will require testing with the Revenants to confirm it is as effective as we anticipate.

ASP | INUGAMI-CLASS: As we have conceptualized what the future of ASPs may look like, it took us longer than might be expected to remember that we need not limit ourselves to the Human body. The idea of augmenting animals of various kinds was not previously considered – but there are instances where this presents opportunities.

The augmentation of war beasts is one that ADVENT has tentatively embraced with the Molossar Hounds, which have proven to be effective in battle, but not experimented with further. The Inugami-Class would involve the augmentation of certain animals for open combat operations, as well as covert ones.

We are looking into the augmentation of Bengal tigers, jaguars, and elephants as Inugami candidates for overt warfare, and foxes, eagles, and deer for covert infiltration and observation. It is also a strong candidate for a Deildegast-esque approach of allowing the Revenant to command multiple of these ASPs at once, especially for smaller or pack animals.

ASP | JIANGSHI-CLASS: Building off the idea of moving beyond Human limitations – we have extended this to the idea of alien ASPs as well, though these would be primarily for the purposes of infiltration and sabotage. It would involve the conversion of alien captives – primarily Vitakarians and Mutons, which would then be released under the control of a Revenant.

Unlike most ASPs, those converted to the Jiangshi-Class would undergo minimal augmentation, and would primarily affect the brain to allow the Revenant to control them. These Revenants would likely have to have some degree of familiarity with this ASP to be able to speak and communicate through it. This was an idea directly suggested to us by ADVENT Intelligence, and we are more than capable of bringing it to life.

SECOND-GENERATION PSIONIC AMPLIFIER: While the existing Revenant Amplifier Platform is already a major success for the field of psionic technology, we intend for a second-generation one to have significantly greater range. We are aiming for this Amplifier to, at minimum, be able to control a Revenant within the bounds of any singular continent.

While the current Amplifier has notable ranges, this would allow the Revenant to be situated in a far safer environment while retaining the same level of effectiveness. It would also allow Revenants to be able to support multiple operations in a shorter timespan due to not having to move to different Amplifiers.

We have proven that the theory and technology are sound – it is now simply a matter of upscaling.

ASP PSIONIC SHAPER AUGMENT: Currently, the Revenants only possess the capability to control their ASPs. While they are able to defend against telepathic attacks by proxy, they are unable to utilize psionics in any stronger form. The end-state of ASP augmentations is installing technology that would allow the Revenant to channel psionics through the ASP itself.

While this is easily the most ambitious of any planned augmentations or psionic technologies, I do not think it needs to be said that this would be a force-multiplier that the Collective only matches through their Harbingers. Should we gain even ten such equivalents, we would be able to pose a challenge to even the Ethereals.

RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING

REVENANTS: Revenant candidates will be drawn from what is expected to be a small pool of psions who are incapable of integration into frontline combat operations, be it a result of injury, illness, or other debilitation that prevents participation. The question has been raised if the Revenant Program will be opened to psions who want to actively transfer to the program.

This is a subject which will be revisited after the Revenants have been formally integrated into ADVENT Military operations and the Program receives wider disclosure. At this moment, we intend to keep Revenants to individuals who are incapable of contributing to ADVENT in traditional ways.

AUGMENTED SHELL PLATFORMS: ASPs will only be developed from soldiers who have been declared medically brain-dead and have completed the necessary documentation that allows ADVENT to use their body for scientific purposes. ADVENT has not, and will never, perform this process on an individual who had not personally consented prior to this.

In the event that ADVENT lacks individuals to be converted into ASPs voluntarily, candidates will be drawn from the Experimentation Labs. In the event that there are no applicable candidates, brain-dead clones will be grown and undergo conversion in amounts equivalent to the needs of the ADVENT Military.

SUPPORT PERSONNEL: Remaining personnel, be they scientists, engineers, or support staff will be recruited from established ADVENT civil services, who have experience with working on secretive or classified projects. For now, the Revenant Program requires the utmost secrecy and best that ADVENT can provide.

A particular effort will be made to recruit individuals who express or have experience in psionics or psionic technology, as Revenant is intended to be on the cutting edge of such development and research.

CONCLUSION: There is no doubt that the goals of the Revenant Program are ambitious and intend to go further than a specially augmented group of psions. While there are some who would be content with this outcome, we are not satisfied with ordinary expectations.

We intend for Revenant to be the testbed for some of the most advanced psionic technology in ADVENT, and I am confident that should Revenant receive the resources required, we will soon surpass the Ethereal Collective, and take decisive control of this theatre of the war.

ADVENT | MEMORANDUM

PERSONNEL SUBMISSION | REVENANT PROGRAM

AUTHOR: Dr. Gavin Archer [Lead Scientist]

OVERVIEW: With the technological aspects of the Revenant Project reaching the prototype stage, it has been judged that it is now necessary to begin a controlled rollout of the Revenant Program for a small number of applicable soldiers. In addition to the personnel already identified, the Revenant Program will continue to actively monitor for future candidates.

We have identified seven candidates for enrollment in the Revenant Program and assess that each of them are willing to transfer. Each of them meet the criteria outlined for recruitment, and their respective superiors have agreed to let them take part in the program should they so choose.

This document will be updated and accessible to leadership and appropriate personnel until prototype testing has begun. The number of Revenant candidates will not exceed eight per the orders of Chief Engineer Feng Mercado.

Any additionally identified candidates will be placed on a shortlist for future recruitment and are not included in this document.

CANDIDATE 1 | CAITLYN NORLAN

Current Position: PRIEST Division | 1st American Legion

Trask Level: 81 [Leviathan]

Nationality: United States of America

Injury/Diagnosis: PRIEST Caitlyn Norlan suffered extensive injuries in combat in the Midwestern United States. These injuries inflicted severe organ damage, and the loss of both eyes. She was scheduled to undergo MELD treatment and cybernetic supplantation before it was discovered she possesses a condition that causes her body to reject cybernetic treatments, and subsequently, MELD.

Following this diagnosis, and prior to Revenant recruitment, she took part in therapy and worked with ADVENT medical professionals to assess genetic markers that indicate this condition, and potentially to reverse it. ADVENT has since required all military personnel to undergo testing to assess if any others possess this condition.

Norlan suffered extensive damage to her lungs and heart, rendering her incapable of significant physical exertion. She is completely blind and relies on a service animal and her psionics for navigation.

Psychological Profile: Despite her significant injuries, Norlan has adapted with notable swiftness to her disabilities. ADVENT psychologists have assessed that this is due to her extensive telepathic abilities, which allow her a sense and 'vision' of a kind which non-psions do not.

She also maintains a confidence that ADVENT will eventually treat or reverse her condition, or at minimum ensure that it will be eradicated in the future. That she has helped ADVENT already identify others with her condition is a point of pride, one she hopes will save lives.

She has adapted her hobbies and interests to her current condition. Once an avid reader, she now has a large audiobook library. Her music tastes have also expanded since her injuries, and she will usually listen to her music library while working. She has a close bond with her service dog, Sally, who she cares deeply for.

She has a highly positive view on ADVENT, and she has been actively looking for a way to directly contribute to the war effort. Her transfer to Revenant is almost certain.

CANDIDATE 2 | KOSTIANTYN "KOST" NESCHADYMENKO

Current Position: PRIEST Division | 1st Ukrainian Legion

Trask Level: 61 [Magus]

Nationality: Ukraine

Injury/Diagnosis: While taking part in operations in Ukraine, Kost (I will utilize his nickname for brevity) was telepathically attacked and overwhelmed by what we have defined as a 'Die' command by a Lesser Hive Commander. This command orders the body to shut down itself, though the exact process varies from individual to individual, but always results in the death of the individual.

To our knowledge, Kost is one of a few people who have successfully survived such a command, which he was able to partially reverse, though not before it shut down much of his nervous system and several critical organs. He requires continual machine intervention, as the telepathic command remains in place and his body is no longer able to perform these functions.

There is the possibility that this condition may be able to be psionically reversed, but Kost has declined the procedure until the chances that it would outright kill him have been reduced.

Psychological Profile: Kost is an energetic, optimistic individual who was known among his squad as being the upbeat man who often told jokes. He is charismatic, a natural leader and a friend to most people he meets. He exudes an outgoing, confident energy who executed his tasks and mission competently.

While he outwardly has maintained this demeanor following the attack, the physical side effects of the psionic command have damaged his self-esteem, self-image, and confidence. He was a bodybuilder who took pride in keeping himself in top physical condition, all of which has been lost in a matter of months, which he has privately struggled to reconcile with.

Despite this, he has continued to try and push himself to maintain some physicality, and has been asking to take part in military operations again. Doing nothing is unacceptable to him, and he would almost certainly join the program if offered.

In the event he joins, we must ensure that he is monitored, as there is a risk that if certain conditions are met, he will fall into clinical depression.

CANDIDATE 3 | DA YATING

Current Position: PRIEST Division | 4th Chinese Legion

Trask Level: 65 [Magus]

Nationality: China

Injury/Diagnosis: Unlike most candidates, Yating does not suffer from an injury or disability from combat, but a cancer diagnosis. She was recently diagnosed with mesothelioma, an aggressive and previously untreatable cancer that was once a death sentence.

While ADVENT medical technology has led to significant advances, it is currently insufficient to cure mesothelioma – but it can slow it down significantly. Yating was honorably suspended from service to undergo specialized treatments overseen and carried out by ADVENT medical institutions.

It is unknown if these treatments will succeed, but we have assurance that they will significantly delay the cancer from worsening in the immediate future. It should be noted that these treatments will need to continue throughout her tenure in Revenant, but the associated ADVENT medical teams have agreed to support her should she accept the position.

Psychological Profile: Formerly a digital artist working for the Chinese Communist Party in a propaganda capacity, Yating's views on ADVENT have undergone several evolutions. She has admitted to retaining her support of communist ideology (in China's case, this is better defined as state capitalism), and held negative opinions of ADVENT due to their pressure on the Chinese state early in ADVENT's formation.

However, further attacks by the Collective, specifically Isomnum's attack against her homeland, have mellowed her previously hostile views towards ADVENT and she enlisted following her identification as a psion.

Her military service largely involved her participating in support operations and saw relatively little frontline combat before her diagnosis. She retains concerns on ADVENT leadership, particularly concerning several national matters (particularly Taiwan), but she tends to avoid politics unless pressed or with people she trusts.

Since her diagnosis she has continued to create art, which she has described as a means of helping cope with her situation. At the same time, she has described herself as 'Extraordinarily lucky' that ADVENT possesses medical knowledge to render her condition no longer a death sentence.

This has almost certainly impacted her views on ADVENT the most, and we believe she would be receptive to being given the opportunity to make a larger difference in the war.

CANDIDATE 4 | ANGELA BLACKBURN

Current Position: PRIEST Division | 1st American Legion

Trask Level: 68 [Magus]

Nationality: United States of America

Injury/Diagnosis: Angela Blackburn suffers from a condition very similar to Kost, as when she took part in the operation against the crashed Hiveship in Turkey, and fought the respective Hive Commander, she was subjected to a similar command, which she prevented affecting other soldiers in the area, allowing ADVENT to kill the Hive Commander.

This resulted in her significant physical deterioration and organ failures to a greater extent than Kost. While Kost remains capable of moving himself around, Blackburn has been relying on mobility assistants, and is more dependent on machines to keep her alive than he is.

She is unable to sustain her body with enough nutrients normally, and requires consistent IV tubes to ensure she does not die from dehydration and her body doesn't begin cannibalizing itself from starvation as a result.

None of this has affected her mental capability, though should her physical condition deteriorate it will certainly affect her focus. Similar to Kost, she has refused to undergo any potential psionic treatment until there is a reasonable probability of success. Even if her condition was reversed, it would take months if not longer for her to be returned to a battlefield-ready physical condition.

Psychological Profile: Blackburn is currently recovering from the operation, and dealing with the deaths of her squad who were casualties of the operation against the Hiveship. She is being monitored for signs of depression and PTSD, though current signs indicate she is at low risk for intervention.

She has a stable support network, with her parents coming to visit and support, and she is driven to action, and has been actively working to maintain some kind of physical condition, despite frustrations with her physical deterioration. She has expressed a desire to continue helping fight where she can, and is concerned that ADVENT will not have a place for her.

It is almost certain that she would accept entry into the Program if it was proposed. It is also recommended to include her, as it would almost certainly help Kost's mental stability if he sees that his condition is not isolated.

CANDIDATE 5 | TESSA BAKER

Current Position: Deacon | Washington D.C. Peacekeeper Division

Trask Level: 62 [Magus]

Nationality: United States of America

Injury/Diagnosis: Baker sustained her injuries during the Battle of Washington D.C. while attempting to fight against the SPECTRE attack. While she did not die during this process, it was only due to the EMP strike that she was not completely consumed by the SPECTRE, and she did not escape unscathed.

However, it allowed medical personnel enough time to intervene and save Baker, though in the process the nanites which had been attacking her organs became fused to them, and impossible to remove without catastrophic damage to the organ as well. These injuries render her unable to take part in significant physical exertion.

ADVENT medical personnel did propose that surgery or total organ transplants – something that has not been done on this scale before - is a distant possibility, but it would require multiple surgeries, and there is a high chance of further incapacitation or death.

Baker elected to not undergo the surgeries until the chances were higher. It is worth noting that scans have shown a progression of the nanites further into her organs, and the chances of her dying are higher than other Revenant candidates. She also suffers from acute pain from the condition and is on a regime of pain-suppressing drugs to cope with it.

Psychological Profile: Tessa Baker is an individual who would be classified as a hardline ADVENT supporter. She was identified early on by Chief Amalda Stein as particularly driven and capable for a Peacekeeper, and moved Baker to several special units that undertook politically sensitive operations.

Baker personally took part in several major anti-corruption Peacekeeping operations not just in Washington, but other national capitals against corrupt or criminal politicians. She has experience in interrogation, detection work, and high-stress operations. She has stated that she greatly enjoyed her work in the Peacekeepers, and would like to continue it if possible.

Chief Stein has petitioned to allow her to continue working in an interrogation capacity, but has agreed to let our Program present the opportunity first. While we believe that Baker will join the Revenant Program, there is a chance she would prefer to continue working with the Peacekeepers, as their remains a sustainable alternative for her to pursue.

CANDIDATE 6 | KHANT AG HEIN

Current Position: PRIEST Division | 1st Burmese Legion

Trask Level: 64 [Magus]

Nationality: Myanmar (Burma)

Injury/Diagnosis: Hein's diagnosis first arose during operations in Southeast Asia which are currently under Collective control, and have been terraformed by alien flora which is still being identified by ADVENT botanists. Hein was exposed to a previously unknown alien flora and immediately became extremely ill.

This is the first persistent xenoinfection identified by ADVENT, transmitted through direct ingestion from airborne spores produced by the flora. This manifests outwardly on the skin which will be covered with welts and lesions that prelude a more complete breakdown of the body's molecular structure.

The xenoinfection, classified as a degenerative condition, has proven to be extremely resistant to conventional treatments, and he requires near-daily treatments of MELD to prevent breakdown of his entire body.

Hein has been greatly weakened by this, and any directed physical pressure to the body can cause significant damage that is not easy to heal from. However, so long as treatments are done regularly, he is able to remain active and in minimal pain.

Psychological Profile: Khant Ag Hein is a committed Burmese nationalist, though a moderate one, who held a relatively high rank in the Burmese military prior to ADVENT. He was a strong advocate of southeast Asian cooperation, and pushed for deeper ASEAN integration as news of the invasion broke. Subsequently, he was an early supporter of ADVENT, seeing them as a bulwark against Chinese pressure in addition to the alien threat.

His views on ADVENT have in practice become more mixed. He supports a majority of ADVENT's initiatives and has admitted would not share a negative opinion on ADVENT publicly so long as the alien invasion is ongoing, which he sees as the most important issue.

However, he is concerned at the continued influence of China in ADVENT, as well as a reconstituted Muslim power bloc in the Middle East which he is afraid will influence ADVENT policy in ways that go against the spirit of its founding.

Hein took part in joint Indian-Burmese operations during the War on Terror in Pakistan and Indonesia, which colored his views on Islam. Notably, he was already opposed to non-Eastern religions in general, viewing them as a relic of western colonialism.

While it is unlikely that he would pose a personnel issue if he were to work with individuals of groups he holds negative views towards, it is ideal that this not be forgotten. People tend not to change their views overnight.

CANDIDATE 7 | JEAN-PIERRE LECLÈRE

Current Position: ADVENT Citizen | Triarii Program

Trask Level: 83 [Leviathan]

Nationality: France

Injury/Diagnosis: Old age. At 89 years old, Jean-Pierre is perhaps the oldest individual serving in an official capacity in ADVENT. He is old enough that there were concerns that the MELD treatments would be actively harmful to him, which has delayed his acceptance into the Triarii Program, despite his exceptional qualifying record.

Instead, he was offered to undergo psionic testing as an alternative, and was found to hold an exceptionally high Trask Level. While Triarii remained hesitant, his high Trask Level, acceptable physical condition (for his age), and positive assessments from the Triarii Program have been sufficient to qualify him for the Revenant Program, as it is unlikely he will be utilized elsewhere.

Psychological Profile: Jean-Pierre Leclère is a man who, throughout his long and storied life, is a hero or the thorn in the side of the powerful depending on whom you ask. What immediately catches people's eyes is his service in World War II in the French Resistance, where he was personally responsible for the evacuation of several Jewish families, and helped hide hundreds of other ones as they fled from Germany, Belgium, France, and other European countries under Axis control.

He also was not just involved in a smuggling capacity either – he took part in offensive actions against the Vichy government. While it is not confirmed, he claims to have personally assassinated over a dozen Vichy officers, and an unknown number of Vichy and German soldiers prior to the liberation of France by the Allied powers. He received several commendations for his heroic actions following the liberation.

Jean-Pierre possesses an exceptionally strong moral compass, one which has not wavered over the rest of his life. It is important to understand that Jean-Pierre is a dedicated orthodox communist (defined as a Marxist-Leninist), which has shaped his political views and activities.

Following the war he became a very strong thorn in the side of the French government as a communist activist - though was notably not a supporter of the Soviet Union, which is likely what saved him from an untimely assassination.

He primarily focused his efforts around and against French colonialism, taking part in, and organizing protests and direct action to their activities in Africa and the Middle East. He met with several Algerian independence groups, both peaceful and violent, and supported their independence from France which was not well-received domestically.

He was unsurprisingly on the side of the Algerians during the Algerian War, and surprisingly gave a rare endorsement to de Gaulle following his decision to end the Algerian War. He did so in the hopes that it would encourage the French government to end colonial efforts, though acknowledged later that it didn't matter. Nonetheless, he stood by his support for de Gaulle in that moment, even if he largely opposed him for the rest of his political career.

Though he was getting older, he continued taking part in anti-colonial and anti-intervention measures, up to the War on Terror, which was a decidedly complicated issue for him. He didn't oppose NATO intervention to remove the Caliph, who he believed was a danger to the world - but he did oppose national efforts to intervene in Africa, which he saw as an attempt to reassert European dominance over the region.

His views on ADVENT are unsurprisingly mixed, as there are a number of elements that he is pleasantly surprised by, but he on the whole considers ADVENT too militant and interventionist, though acknowledges that it is a natural reaction to the alien attack. As a fairly respected voice on the French left, he has caused some controversy in his encouragement of left-wing individuals to participate in ADVENT, as he believes that there is an opportunity to influence policy in a better direction.

This is not to say he has not critiqued ADVENT, particularly concerning the military, law enforcement, and intervention – though by that same token he says that ADVENT appears to have the capacity to improve and better itself should the people demand it. It is not out of the question that he would join Revenant in order to ensure a more left-wing view is represented.

There are no grounds to deny him qualification based on his views, but it should be understood that this does risk introducing a disruptive element, especially considering this is a military unit. With that said, ADVENT has clearly assessed such a risk as low, given he has undergone the awakening process.

FINAL NOTATION: Each of these individuals possesses the necessary psionic aptitude, willingness to contribute, and psychological profile to justify their inclusion in the Revenant Program. We are willing to commission or provide direct ADVENT Intelligence dossiers on each of these individuals or mentioned programs upon request.

ADVENT Media Record 2237748 | Email Transcript

Participants: ARCHER, Gavin; VAHLEN, Moira

xxx

To: Moira Vahlen

From: Gavin Archer

Subject: Avatar Project Research

Good afternoon Dr. Vahlen,

I apologize if you receive this message unexpectedly. Presuming my department has done their job, you should have received some notification about our interest, but if not, I will briefly summarize the purpose of this outreach.

We understand that XCOM has been conducting research into the process behind the Ethereal Harbingers, or the "Avatar Project" as it is known within the Collective. My department is interested in any research you have conducted, or intend to conduct, on this subject, and are eager to collaborate in this field.

With respect,

- Dr. Gavin Archer

xxx

To: Gavin Archer

From: Moira Vahlen

RE: Subject: Avatar Project Research

Dr. Archer, thank you for reaching out,

ADVENT has sent several inquiries prior to your message, and we are aware of ADVENT's interest in the Avatar Project, and the wider field of psionic technology. We have done some preliminary research on how the concept of the Avatar Project could be executed (specific papers are attached for your review), but I suspect that we will not gain a full picture until one of these Harbingers is captured.

Despite this limitation, I believe it is beneficial to share what knowledge we do have, and little harm in expanding this when new discoveries are made. As you have said, this is a new and developing field, and collaboration with ADVENT is a welcome one.

If I might inquire, to what end do you intend to employ this knowledge? If ADVENT is interested in replicating the Avatar Project, I would advise some caution. We certainly do not know enough at this stage, and the benefits of a dedicated pursuit are questionable.

Thank you,

- Dr. Moira Vahlen

xxx

To: Moira Vahlen

From: Gavin Archer

RE: Subject: Avatar Project Research

Dr. Vahlen, thank you for the prompt response, and the attached documentation – this is exactly what we needed.

To address the question of why we are interested, it is not to create our own Harbingers. I am in agreement that wholesale recreation is not feasible, nor is it particularly useful for the needs of our military. However, I do believe that there are important lessons, techniques, and technologies that the Avatar Project employs that we can leverage in new and beneficial ways.

In particular, what I am most interested in is the method of seamless connection, command-and-control, across what appear to be extreme distances spanning entire solar systems. I am sure you can see the benefits of allowing our telepaths to have a direct method of communicating at such distances near-instantaneously. This is to say nothing of how other manifestations of psionics could be manipulated, augmented, or enhanced using these underlying concepts.

I am not interested in merely recreating the Avatar Project – I view this effort as a springboard for a far more effective and feasible series of projects. I would be happy to collaborate with XCOM further in this field, as we are both in alignment on the importance of psionic technology as the war progresses.

With respect,

- Dr. Gavin Archer

xxx

To: Gavin Archer

From: Moira Vahlen

RE: Subject: Avatar Project Research

Dr. Archer, thank you for the clarification.

It appears we are on similar trains of thought as to the potential uses of what is learned from the Avatar Project. I am willing to arrange for a more formal research agreement between your department and XCOM, as it appears ADVENT's programs concerning this matter are more mature than anticipated.

Central Officer Ariel Jackson will be in touch with yourself or a designated contact, and I look forward to working with you and your team as we acquire the secrets of this Ethereal project, and turn these lessons against them. Attached is some preliminary paperwork for any individuals you wish to involve.

I will add that XCOM also expects to share results in research projects done on your end, up to employing or utilizing the results of our research. Should ADVENT give their consent, we can establish this immediately.

Thank you,

- Dr. Moira Vahlen

xxx

To: Moira Vahlen

From: Gavin Archer

RE: Subject: Avatar Project Research

Dr. Vahlen, the response is appreciated,

I believe that arrangements can be made. Attached is some paperwork concerning our own projects which relate to this. I must stress that these projects are highly classified, and we will want the number of personnel involved in, or viewing research produced, limited to those you and us have vetted.

However, I do not believe this will be a significant hurdle, and the results will make a tangible impact on the war effort. I look forward to our future collaboration.

With respect,

- Dr. Gavin Archer

ZARACH | HOSTILE ACTIVITY | EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Activity Identified: Special Military Project [Psionic [Medium Confidence] | Cybernetic [High Confidence]]

Activity Type: Research and Development [Stage Unknown | Presumed Prototype]

Anticipated Impact Level: Unknown [Anticipated Medium or Higher Confidence]

BRIEF ASSESSMENT: Due to the rapid capability of ADVENT to begin and maintain multiple major projects that possess the capability to significantly alter our battlefield calculus, we have kept careful track of when new projects have begun or commanded significant ADVENT resources.

Concerning the subject of this report, it is currently unclear what this current project ADVENT has elected to pursue is, but we have assessed that the amount of assets gathered, the extreme secrecy, and identified personnel involved indicate that ADVENT considers this project important to their overall war effort.

Below is a compilation of notations of interest.

NOTATION 1 | LOCATION: In keeping with most major projects ADVENT undertakes, this project is situated in a remote location. Unlike other projects, this one is not in environments that are standard for such projects.

We have narrowed the likely place this project is likely taking place to the Himalayan mountain range. It is one of the largest and most hostile environments on Earth – and is a poor fit for dedicated construction, or extensive geological renovation.

However, that is what makes it valuable. We are unaware of how significantly ADVENT has dug into the Himalayans, which limits our ability to assess the size or exact location of the facility. Our inability to penetrate the defenses on any identified structure makes our suppositions guesswork at best. It is highly likely that ADVENT has built their facilities into the mountains, and are able to hide the extent of their work from exterior observation.

We are aware that one of ADVENT's Central Reserves resides in the same region – and that is already known to be one of the most fortified and defended locations on Earth.

It is almost certain that this research facility, no matter what is inside it, is similarly protected. Whatever is being done, ADVENT has gone to extensive lengths to protect it, and clearly does not want anyone to know or investigate it further.

NOTATION 2 | RESOURCE ALLOCATION: Reviewing our data concerning ADVENT resource allocations, we have noticed a curious pattern of what supplies are being disseminated to the region. The overall numerical number is relatively small. That alone is not cause for interest.

What is cause for interest is that, removing basic necessities, the supplies the region is receiving contain abnormal amounts of specialized components, special technologies, and other pieces of material or equipment that are primarily or only used in cybernetic or psionic technologies.

Either ADVENT has a cache of psionic technology we are unaware of, a cybernetic repair facility, or they are conducting some research on both of those. More detailed manifests would allow us to narrow down a potential lane of research.

NOTATION 3 | PERSONNEL ALLOCATION: Our biggest intelligence gain concerning this project is that we learned that Gavin Archer is personally involved. We do not know if he is leading the project, or merely contributing to it – but it confirms two things.

The first is that this project is extremely important to ADVENT. Dr. Archer is one of the foremost scientists in ADVENT, and he would not be employed frivolously. Whatever the project is, it is almost certainly crucial to the war effort, otherwise ADVENT would find another to contribute to it.

The second is that while Archer is a brilliant scientist, his range of specialties is limited. He possesses degrees in neuroscience, cybernetics, and genetic modification. We also know that he possesses a strong interest in psionics. Putting these together, it seems likely that this project involves one or a combination of all of these subjects.

NOTATION 4 | INTERCEPTED COMMUNICATIONS: There is a small set of intercepted communications that we believe are related to this project. Without context, they are almost meaningless, but utilizing both the CODEX Network and ANDI, have been able to identify a rough number of personnel, and the type of individuals who are being recruited for this effort.

These consisted of a small number of scientists, engineers, and soldiers. All of them have experience working on highly-classified projects, and were smart enough to not let many details slip even in direct communications with officials and handlers.

Using the intelligence we gathered elsewhere, we were able to make correlations of Medium-to-High confidence. The team that ADVENT has put together is elite – another sign that they are treating this project seriously.

NOTATION 5 | XCOM INVOLVEMENT: Our intelligence concerning this topic is scant, but we did receive confirmation that some members of this project have exchanged communications with XCOM, and we have unconfirmed claims that XCOM have sent a small number of personnel to assist with the project.

I will reiterate that this is not confirmed, but the fact that XCOM is involved to any degree implies that XCOM sees significant merit in this project, and is important enough for ADVENT to reach out to XCOM directly.

This is something they tend to avoid unless pressed to do so, as ADVENT has been moving to lessen its reliance on XCOM's strong technological base. They wouldn't break from this pattern for many of their projects, no matter how necessary.

It is worth asking why it would change for this one.

CONCLUSION: It is clear that ADVENT considers this project to be very important. The question remains what it is.

Based on the intelligence, we have high confidence that it involves the development of some kind of psionic technology. What we are unsure of is what form this technology will take. The indications that there is also cybernetic research taking place imply that ADVENT could be trying to combine the two, but it seems unlikely ADVENT would look into how to enhance wounded psions in this way.

It is also possible that there are multiple simultaneous projects taking place, and they are not connected. We simply do not have enough information to accurately assess this, but we do have enough to assess that this research facility is crucial to ADVENT efforts.

It is strongly recommended that we learn more about it, and what ADVENT is working towards, and take subsequent measures to sabotage, appropriate, or destroy it.