ADVENT | HISTORY

THE INTEGRATION OF MUTONS I

"The Collective does not understand what they've done yet, and they will not until Mutons and Humans together liberate Desolan. Only then will we avenge what has been done to us."

- Spartacus

STOCKHOLM – Medics, soldiers, and ADVENT personnel from AEGIS and other departments are a common sight within one of several locations that ADVENT has established for providing short-term aid and shelter to Mutons who were rescued following the secretive mission to Desolan.

The Mutons, comprised almost exclusively of females, children, and infants have been successfully settling into routines, and it is not uncommon for the Muton females to take an active role in taking care of their own. Multiple workers commented on the fact that the mothers were proactive, especially when it came to the infants.

"None of us have taken care of Mutons at any age," one nurse said. "And there is practically no literature on them. We're learning a lot from them, and they seem to be trying to teach us to help, mostly in handling the infants."

Language barriers have proven one of the largest obstacles to smooth integration, which has been supplemented with psions and Vitakara volunteers who are able to roughly translate what is being said. "Most of them don't understand any Human language," one PRIEST officer shared. "But most of the mothers and teenagers, if we call them that, speak Ethereal Script, which the Vitakara can interpret. It can be complicated sometimes, a mother speaking to a child speaking to a Vitakara. It works out, but it can be frustrating sometimes."

ADVENT has continued to withhold specific details of their operation, conducted jointly with XCOM, to attack and liberate a Muton Training Facility. However, numbers on how many Mutons were rescued have been confirmed, though ADVENT has declined to share the number of Mutons being taken care of in individual facilities for security purposes.

Despite the successful rescue, challenges have already arisen for numerous ADVENT workers and departments, who were not told about the operation, and are now responsible for helping support hundreds of aliens who they are unfamiliar with. "It's new territory," one manager said. "Mutons have usually been detained by the military. The male ones I mean. Most of the time they were shot. Muton interrogations aren't really a thing. Now we've got mothers, kids, and babies. We'll get it done, but it's not going to be smooth sailing."

ADVENT has worked to address these challenges by surging support from numerous departments, including the AEGIS Division which is spearheading relief efforts around the Mutons.

"The bad news is that we're going to make some mistakes," Kamar Dennis, the Chief Ambassador said. "The good news is that the Mutons we did rescue can help us. They've been able to communicate what they need, and if we give them it, they honestly make it work better than we could have. We're lucky they're proactive and capable."

The proactivity of the Mutons has come as a relief to those working at the relief sites, while elsewhere conversations concerning future organization are taking place. There is currently no recognized Muton state or body, within or outside the Ethereal Collective – something that ADVENT appears to be looking to change.

"I'd be surprised if it doesn't happen," one AEGIS manager commented. "For organization, if nothing else. The difficulty isn't going to be deciding to set up a Muton government – it's figuring out what that even looks like. We literally have nothing, and neither do they."

It is almost certain that ADVENT will be looking to establish any Muton government in conjunction with rescued Mutons, and the Muton known as Spartacus who has emerged as the face of the rescued Mutons.

Additional sociological questions have already been raised within ADVENT, particularly concerning the eventual integration of Mutons into ADVENT and Human society. Debate and contention has arisen in multiple ADVENT departments over the best approach – with no consensus emerging yet.

ADVENT's priority in the short-term remains ensuring that the Mutons are sheltered, provided for, and given medical treatment as appropriate – but that hasn't stopped speculation from running rampant, as well as concerns from being voiced. Senior leadership within ADVENT is actively discussing solutions, several of them in conjunction with XCOM.

"There's like four or five debates happening at the same time," one officer privy to some discussions shared. "Do we integrate them directly into ADVENT? Do we give them citizenship? How exactly are Mutons going to interact with Humans in a local environment? Are we expecting them to fight in the war?"

"We don't have answers right now," they concluded. "And that isn't taking into account the fact that the Mutons themselves are going to need to make some of these choices. That, more than anything, is going to determine how we approach this."

ADVENT has officially downplayed internal discussions on the future of the Mutons in ADVENT, releasing a statement saying: "ADVENT is first and foremost concerned with the well-being of the Mutons rescued from Desolan. The Mutons, when they are ready, will decide what role they want to play in the future. The Collective has removed choice from their lives. We don't intend to do the same."

Despite this statement, multiple sources say that letting the Mutons decide what they want to do does not erase practical considerations as a result – particularly concerning civilian life. "Do we need to be building Muton-scale towns? Give them the tools and materials and let them figure it out?" One officer asked. "We need these questions answered sooner than later. I don't think they or the public would like to live in permanent refugee camps."

Currently, the ADVENT public supports ADVENT's current approach, with a majority saying in recent polls that ADVENT was 'Doing about the right amount' in terms of support for the Mutons, with a small minority saying that ADVENT 'Should do more.' Polling was more mixed concerning integration, with no clear consensus emerging.

Sociologists and several activist groups cautioned drawing significant conclusions from earlier polling. "It's way too early to be talking about fully integrating Mutons into ADVENT," one individual said. "Neither ADVENT nor the Mutons are interested in that right now. I'm sure that whatever is decided, it will be done correctly, and with all parties agreeing."

The AEGIS Division has similarly not commented on this topic, referring us to the statement ADVENT released, even if it is almost certain they are aware of, and closely tracking public sentiment.

For now, the majority consensus appears to support ADVENT's short-term approach. As the situation stabilizes, and the Mutons have recovered, these questions will return to the forefront. In the interim, ADVENT will continue to focus on providing support to this alien species hurt by the Collective.

"They've gone through hell," one worker summarized. "Let's give them some time to work things out."

- Article | The Arrival of Mutons Raises Questions of Organization; Integration

"I have considered what I would say when this day would come to speak. I do not think it right to ask for help while offering little in return. Your people have reason to be skeptical. The Human perception of my species is skewed, and not without reason."

"Yet, I hope that this is a prejudice your species can overcome. Your history makes me believe it is possible, even as I understand it will not be simple. It is unavoidable, as this is what we have been turned into by the Collective. It falls to myself and my people to change what we have been made into."

"What we have been is slaves. Golems. Automatons of flesh, with minds, souls, and life expunged from each Muton soldier. Ones that have been indoctrinated with a deluded loyalty instilled through terror, repetition, and fear. Meat that the Collective has raised and spent without a second thought. Thousands have died in this war, and thousands more will follow."

"We must learn how to break this conditioning. To be able to think and feel again. To understand that we belong to no master, and we are more than how they view us. They see animals and fodder to send and sacrifice, a creation of their own making. This must be broken."

"No. I do not ask or expect Humanity to show lenience to my brethren they meet on the battlefield. Such is war, and the tragedy of my species should not come before this. I wish to save as many of my brethren as I can, but I am clear-eyed as to the likelihood of this. If it is possible, I believe a way will be found - but I do not ask Humans to sacrifice more than they already have. Because of Humanity, more of my brethren are free than at any time since the day the cursed Battlemaster stepped foot on our homeworld."

"That I exist at all is a testament to how there is no method by which we can save ourselves. We must ask for help. We cannot do this on our own. I came from no mother or father. My knowledge was instilled by a machine. What separates me from the Sargons the Collective raises to serve, is that I was created for a purpose – but allowed to choose that purpose. The liberation of my people."

"No. I did not consider refusing when XCOM explained their intentions to me. I possessed certain knowledge when I awoke, but I lacked…understanding. I asked for time. It was granted. I used that time to learn what had been done, and when I comprehended the magnitude of the crime, how could I walk away? How could I do anything but devote my life, my intellect, and my strength, to breaking the chains that have been imposed on my people?"

"Do you recognize the name?"

"Yes, but do you know what Spartacus did? What he became known for in your history?"

"I see. Spartacus was a gladiator; a slave who took part in a revolt and became one of its leaders. A general, a warrior, a liberator. I understand that the story itself may possess some romanticism – but it is a story that I relate to. My species requires a Spartacus, and so that is who I shall be. One who shall not rest until the Collective is dust."

"I lead my people because there are few others. Now, because of the liberation of my brethren from Desolan, there are others who will help me begin rebuilding our species. No longer will we be a stateless, purposeless people. I will guide them, and together we will evolve into a civilization of our own we will take pride in."

"You touch on an important topic. I will honor my people as best I can, Ms. Wong, from our culture and history that has survived, but I must be honest. There is little. So little. The Collective worked hard to erase it. Only fragments survive today; half-remembered memories and traditions that we hardly remember the reasons for. But this is something, and from this we can build a civilization."

"One thing I will promise is this – the Muton species, no matter how we eventually organize ourselves, will forever be a strong and steadfast ally of Humanity. It is because of your species that we are and will be free - and that is a debt that we will never forget. It is not just for our people's freedom that we fight, but for yours as well. In the Ethereal Collective, we have a shared enemy, a common goal."

"Indeed. This is only the beginning. The Collective will one day tremble as they see Muton and Human fighting side-by-side. Perhaps that day will come soon, perhaps in the future. But this future is assured – and that I have faith in."

- Interview between Jessica Wong and the Muton Leader Spartacus

ADVENT Media Record 2337716 | Audio Transcript

Participants: VINCENT, John; CHI, Lin

[John Vincent]: [Inquisitive] "So what do you think of them?"

[Lin Chi]: "Our latest extraterrestrial guests?"

[JV]: [Snort] "Duh."

[LC]: [Brief pause] "Didn't expect the babies to look like that."

[JV]: "Like what? Little balls of muscle."

[LC]: "Yes, but also, more alien." [Short pause] "Well, I guess the girls do, with that weird mouth. Even still…"

[JV]: "They're very heavy. And big. Like small children."

[LC]: "Toddlers."

[JV]: "That's still bigger than an infant."

[LC]: "Yeah, but it's clearly a baby though. It's weird. You see how the mothers handle the kids?"

[JV]: "I keep out of their way. Officer was pretty clear not to talk to the females if they have kids with them. They're…touchy about aliens handling their kids."

[LC]: [Grim tone] "Given what happened to them, yeah."

[Pause]

[JV]: [Tone is slow; unsteady] "Did you read any of the AA reports? Documentation from the operation?"

[LC]: "What I could." [Uncertain tone] "Hard to believe."

[JV]: [Agreeable tone] "Honestly didn't think I'd see something worse than what the Sectoids did. Turns out…"

[Short pause]

[LC]: "…Yeah."

[JV]: "I don't get how anyone can look at that, and think they're on the right side. We've had the Mutons here, what, three days now? Anyone want to tell me with a straight face that those mothers don't care for their children? What it'd do if they were taken away?"

[LC]: "Honestly? I doubt they know."

[JV]: [Disgusted noise] "Yeah, and the Germans didn't know about the gas chambers. Please. The soldiers at least know."

[LC]: "I'm with you there. I'm talking about the aliens on, like, Vitakar. You really think the Collective teaches them this stuff? Entire systems away?"

[JV]: "…I'll concede that point. Do you think it would change anything if they knew?"

[LC]: [Brief laugh] "Hell no."

[Pause]

[LC]: "Honestly, what got me was how gentle they were being with their kids. Didn't think Mutons could be delicate, but…"

[JV]: [Agreeing tone] "Yeah. Not going to be able to look at them quite the same. An entire species, destroyed because the aliens wanted their slave army." [Spitting noise] "Fucking ghouls."

[LC]: "At least we're helping them now. Maybe if we help enough of them, they can rebuild themselves."

[JV]: "Hopefully so." [Short pause] "Shift is almost done, let's hand it off."

[LC]: "Drink tonight?"

[JV]: "Let's do it. Could use one or two after this."

Transcript ends.

ZARARCH | SOCIOLOGICAL REPORT

Subject: ADVENT Muton Integration

Identified Party: ADVENT

Anticipated Degree of Disruption Opportunity: Moderate

BRIEF ASSESSMENT: Following the aftermath of the joint ADVENT-XCOM attack on Desolan, which resulted in the extraction of a significant number of Mutons, ADVENT has continued to invest in efforts to support and provide for the extracted Mutons, almost certainly for their ultimate integration into ADVENT.

Despite some initial challenges, ADVENT has successfully been able to scale their operation to the needs of the standing Muton population, primarily consisting of childbearing, adolescent, and infant Mutons. We have noted that ADVENT has taken direction and advice from female Mutons, which has enabled them to more effectively adjust to needs.

This report assesses the decisions that ADVENT is likely to face and decide on concerning integration, particularly on the place of Mutons within the ADVENT framework. ADVENT is a Human-dominated society, but one that has shown willingness and the ability to integrate aliens into it.

Despite potential incompatibility with the Human population, ADVENT has historically demonstrated a willingness to forcibly integrate alien populations despite concerns of native Humans. These risks are further mitigated by a willingness to suppress anti-alien activity or voiced resentment.

ADVENT will nonetheless be forced to make decisions concerning the degree of integration. This report does not take into account other external factors and developments, such as the foundation of a recognized Muton state, and possible granting of territory, or a sudden shift in ADVENT's attitude towards Mutons.

ASSESSMENT 1 | INTEGRATION: ADVENT has yet to settle on the extent or degree that Mutons will be integrated into ADVENT, if at all. ADVENT is currently focused on meeting the needs of the existing Muton population. They are prioritizing developing future plans in conjunction with Muton individuals who have emerged as leaders, to include the Muton Sargon template in the employ of XCOM - Spartacus.

It is unclear to what extent XCOM is involved in these discussions, nor the degree of control XCOM exerts over him as the original creator.

ADVENT will likely rely on XCOM to support several Muton populations, until additional facilities are built in ADVENT territory that they can be moved to. They may also expect XCOM to assist in the facilitation of talks with the Mutons concerning their place in Human civilization. ADVENT does not appear to have a defined plan for integration, but will almost certainly be willing to facilitate it if they judge direct integration is feasible and desirable.

It is almost certain that integrating Mutons into Human society will lead to clashes, disputes and tensions due to the differences in biology, mental capacity, and demographics. ADVENT would almost certainly attempt to mitigate any backlash through executing integration in a smooth and controlled manner, as well as employing propaganda through a coordinated media, and cracking down on sustained dissent.

Barring a significant shift in ADVENT attitudes towards alien integration, ADVENT will likely take steps such as arresting figures who emerge as leaders of anti-alien social movements, suppress anti-alien speech on social media platforms, and deny any public events or protests which oppose alien integration. Previous actions against anti-alien activity will almost certainly depress any backlash, and ADVENT appears confident that no matter their decisions, they can manage public opinion and expectation.

ADVENT is likely to settle on a path to integration within the next three to six months, during which this assessment will be reviewed.

ASSESSMENT 2 | EXPLOITATION: ADVENT will continue to exploit the Mutons within their territory materially and through propaganda. Utilizing Muton testimonies, media from combat operations, and stolen Collective materials, they will likely perpetuate the negative perception of the Ethereal Collective, through the lens of the treatment of the Muton species, which will reinforce ongoing propaganda campaigns, and engender support for extra-solar operations.

ADVENT will almost certainly require little to no coercion to encourage Muton participation in these media campaigns. It is likely that several of these campaigns will be spearheaded by Mutons themselves, should they possess adequate mental capabilities. We have observed Spartacus engaged in one such campaign, speaking with numerous Human media figures, military officials, and ADVENT diplomats.

We expect that ADVENT is likely to accept Mutons engaging in military operations at an undetermined point in the future, though it is unknown to what capacity this would be in. It is unknown if this would be driven by, or supported by XCOM which is well-postured to support such an initiative.

Due to the limited number of combat-trained Mutons, it is likely that Mutons who served in ADVENT military units would constitute an irregular unit that would exist to supplement ADVENT or XCOM special operations, with possible support to existing frontline operations. This will be reassessed if ADVENT releases a statement, or intelligence is collected on their possible militarization.

ASSESSMENT 3 | IMPACT: We expect the support and integration of Mutons to have a minimal impact on ADVENT due to the minimal resource strain of the existing Muton population, and their current segregation from mainstream Human civilization and society. This state of affairs will almost certainly continue for the next three to six months as ADVENT makes decisions about how to best integrate them.

It is unlikely that even if the Mutons were directly integrated into Human society, they would be disruptive. ADVENT is almost certain to place Mutons in locations with accepting populations, construct appropriately-scaled infrastructure, develop and pass laws and regulations concerning conduct, and accelerate bureaucratic hurdles concerning citizenship and integration.

This assessment may change if the number of Mutons within ADVENT territory substantially increases, or there is an acceleration of ADVENT's current posture. It is unknown to what extent the formation of a formal Muton state would affect integration plans.

CONCLUSION: ADVENT is almost certainly going to retain the indefinite support of any Muton population residing within its territory due to existing grievances against the Ethereal Collective, as well as continued encouragement and propaganda from ADVENT. Human perceptions of Mutons have shifted to a positive state – a change in our previous assessment that the association Humans had with Mutons would make them resistant to integration efforts.

ADVENT's successful campaign to portray the Mutons as a victim of the Ethereal Collective has resonated with Human populations worldwide, with comparisons drawn between the treatment of Mutons and historical Human practices that have been universally condemned. While this has not affected ADVENT military policy, Mutons are less likely to be viewed with inherent negativity.

There is a moderate chance that ADVENT may consider implementing battlefield policies pertaining to Muton soldiers, such as encouraging their capture or detainment instead of execution. We have no indication ADVENT is currently considering this policy change.

It is recommended that the Collective consider the strategic deployment of Sargons in speaking roles pertaining to public statements, elevating their place in Collective decision-making on a more visible level to lessen perceptions of slavery or abuse for Collective populations that may have access to Human media.

It is unlikely that any attempts to disrupt integration or worsen public perceptions of Mutons will be successful. The Human population is resilient to foreign influence due to existing perceptions, and active ADVENT efforts to push and sustain narratives. Investment into psychological operations to weaken Human tolerance for alien species is not recommended.

We will continue to monitor Muton activity within ADVENT and position to act accordingly.