Miscellaneous
ADVENT Animal Mascots
"It ultimately turned out that the most complicated, tense, and heated exchanges across the entirety of ADVENT didn't come from an important topic, but which mascot each of them wanted.
I am never doing this again."
- Chancellor Saudia Vyandar
One of the more interesting developments during this lull in the conflict was the unexpected announcement by ADVENT concerning their animal mascots. This was surprising because no one had any idea that this was actually something ADVENT had been devoting time towards, though in true ADVENT fashion they performed the unveiling with completed seals and logos.
Needless to say there was a good deal of excitement and speculation on these, and in addition to the announcements, ADVENT also explained some of the meaning and process behind it. Supposedly the entire thing was something of an intense process, as the various departments had disagreements over which animal would fit best for them.
The way this was explained indicates that it was taken a bit more seriously than ADVENT was expecting.
Nonetheless, what everyone is interested in is what animals were actually chosen. That will be started now (Note that despite this being shared as "animal" mascots, there are a few insects also included):
The ADVENT Executive Branch: Out of all the branches, only the Executive Branch opted to adopt an animal mascot, which is the Bald Eagle. While not an especially original choice, the eagle has been a symbol of strength and authority for many years, and it is not surprising that ADVENT would similarly adopt it as their own.
The ADVENT Army Division: Another animal that seems like a clear choice, the African Lion, was chosen as the mascot for the Army, presumably through an internal vote, with the choices being proposed by the leadership. As lions are among the most dangerous and brave animals in nature, and the designated kings of the jungle and plains, it is easy to see why ADVENT would wish to adopt this as the mascot for their armed forces.
The ADVENT Navy Division: There are a great many sea creatures to choose from, but the one that was decided on was the Octopus, which is interestingly not a mascot that is usually chosen. But it is easy to see why ADVENT would wish to use it. Intelligent, adaptable, and mobile, this reflects the mission and strengths of the ADVENT Navy. This was chosen in a similar way to how the Army chose theirs.
The ADVENT Air and Space Division: Like the ocean, there are a massive amount of animals which can be chosen from the air. The ultimate decision was the Hawk, a clearly fitting animal which is focused, precise, and dangerous. Like the other similarly large divisions, this was decided via a vote.
The ADVENT Special Forces Division: The Special Forces division did things a little bit differently, as they did not only chose an animal for the entirety of the division, but each major unit also chose their own mascot internally. Regardless, the Tiger was the animal chosen for the Special Forces Division, which echoes many of the same strengths and values as the lion, but also compliments it in others.
The Lancer Corps: While some may scoff at this mascot initially, the Honey Badger is one of the most aggressive, dangerous, and intelligent predators that exists in nature. The attitude this animal exhibits is certainly one the Lancers wish to emulate. Honey Badgers are not invincible, but they will put up a deadly fight to the bitter end.
The Hussar Corps: As Leopards are agile predators which take out their prey quickly and decisively, so are the Hussars. Not the most dangerous or large predator, but it is a fitting one for such a unit within the Special Forces Division which performs a highly specialized role, even if they usually won't change the outcome.
The Dragoon Corps: Crocodiles are slow, but durable and dangerous when needed, which fits the Dragoon Corp fairly well. Although it is possible they just chose this because they couldn't think of anything better.
The Cuirassier Corps: In the similar vein of the Lancers, the Mongoose was chosen as the mascot for the Cuirassiers, and the reason given by one of them was "We like this animal, there isn't any deeper meaning than that." I choose to take this at face value.
The ADVENT Special Response Division: If you have never heard of this division before now, it is not surprising since it is perhaps the smallest and least advertised, and ADVENT hasn't provided much information on it, suffice to say that it seems to be designed for highly specialized situations that other divisions can't handle. Thus, the Axolotl seems an almost perfect fit. Bizarre, adaptable, intelligent, and an enigma, it seems to embody the division quite well.
The ADVENT Oversight Division: Very few will likely be surprised to learn that the Praying Mantis was chosen for the Oversight Division. The statue-like, striking, and always observant insect is an obvious reflection of the division itself, always watching and waiting to strike those who step out of line.
ADVENT Intelligence: There are a number of secretive, suspicious, or otherwise obvious animal metaphors ADVENT Intelligence could choose. The Raven was ultimately the one chosen, which is an interesting choice, even if fitting. Ravens are among the most intelligent birds, highly observant, trainable, and are often portrayed as watchers or spies in myths and stories. Hardly surprising such a creature would be chosen to embody the all-seeing nature of ADVENT Intelligence.
The ADVENT PRIEST Division: In a similar vein to the Special Forces Division, it has opted to have a mascot which embodies the entire division, with the various sub-branches choosing their own. The mascot chosen for the division as a whole was the Owl, an often-portrayed wise and knowing creature, if somewhat aloof and mysterious. A certainly intriguing choice, but a fitting one.
Military Branch: Some mascots are chosen for their subtlety, and make the viewer wonder the deeper meaning behind it. As the Military Branch of the PRIEST Division has shown here, they could care less about any subtlety. The Deathstalker, one of the world's most dangerous scorpions was chosen, and the message is clear: Fight us and we will kill you.
Peacekeeper Branch: The Peacekeeper branch has also opted for a mascot which is less than subtle, the Cobra, one of the most well-known and venomous snakes in nature. Since most psions involved in this division are only used in dangerous situations, it is perhaps more fitting than one might initially think.
Training Branch: This mascot is also clear, but thankfully is much less malicious than the previous two. The German Shepherd, or dog as a general mascot was chosen here, likely to symbolize the dedication and drive needed to master the illusive power and use it correctly.
Civil Service Branch: The Beaver is a hardworking, resourceful, and intelligent animal, and these characteristics are quite obviously reflected in the Civil Service branch. While not an obvious choice for a mascot, it is certainly one which fits the psions in question.
Research Branch: Very rarely do scientists themselves take a mascot, but not even this branch wanted to be left out it seems. A Cat is something of a generic animal, but in a certain way it fits. Cats are naturally intelligent and curious, both traits of those within the sciences. Although I do believe members of this branch are probably more polite than your average housecat.
The ADVENT Peacekeeper Division: When one imagines a proper mascot for the primary law enforcement agency of ADVENT, the Wolf is probably not their first choice. It is something of a…curious choice, though the explanation provided makes some degree of sense. Wolves are loyal to the pack, are dangerous to their rivals, and as Stein said "We will hunt down and kill the criminals and lawbreakers with the tenacity and strength of the wolf." I believe that says a lot about the priorities of the Peacekeepers.
State Special Response: Keeping with the theme of sometimes obvious mascots, the Grizzly Bear perfectly embodies the average SSR operation. Massive, lethal, and a bear that you absolutely do not want to poke. There was apparently some debate over which bear would ultimately be chosen, but it finally came down to both lethality and recognition.
Otherwise I suspect a Polar Bear would have been chosen instead.
Overall this is certainly an interesting list which will no doubt be further used in ADVENT's marketing machine and development of the identities of these organizations. Regardless, it is good to see ADVENT using their time for something decidedly less malicious. Certainly a lighter subject to share than the heavy topics of war, religion, and justice.
Article: The Animal Mascots of ADVENT, by Sydney Sanders
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Ariel Jackson [Verified]
Subject: Mascots!
So, in light of ADVENT coming out with a whole bunch of animal mascots for themselves, I'm wondering if we should do something similar. Any comments?
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: The Commander [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
Huh, interesting. Wasn't a massive fan of using animals for mascots. If we want symbolism, there are actually plenty of symbols to choose from. An animal seems limiting. Not to mention I don't have any ideas right now.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Moira Vahlen [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
It does seem like ADVENT took the majority of interesting animals. I would prefer not to copy them.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Ariel Jackson [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
Hey now, ADVENT didn't take everything. Though you do have a point that I don't know what would be a good fit.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Shaojie Zhang [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
Perhaps an Ethereal?
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: The Commander [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
Yes Zhang, Aegis is going to become the mascot of the Extraterrestrial Combat Unit. I'm shocked no one thought of this earlier.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Raymond Shen [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
Who says it has to be an animal? I am sure each division has something unique that they have created which could serve as an example of what we do. I can nominate a MEC soldier, or perhaps JULIAN once it is complete.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: The Commander [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
Now this is a good idea. If everyone really wants to put forth an idea, then do it. Preferably one decided by the division itself. However, XCOM isn't getting a mascot. I'm fine with the current symbol as it stands. Encapsulates everything I want it to.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Moira Vahlen [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
May I propose a Shoggoth?
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Ariel Jackson [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
I knew she was going to say that, damn it.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Moira Vahlen [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
No one said the animal had to be natural.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Iosif Bronis [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
So my question now is what kills a Shoggoth.
As a psion, they are our natural predators.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Moira Vahlen [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
When I find something, I'll let you know.
To: Internal Council [Tagged]
From: Iosif Bronis [Verified]
Re: Subject: Mascots!
Considerate as always, Vahlen, thank you very much.
Message to all Ethereals on the CODEX encrypted network
Greetings to all my fellow (survivor!) Ethereals. I was thinking how much we don't really talk to each other as much as we probably should. Have a reunion or something where we are all in the same place; catch up, you know the drill. I know we have all have very important work, but a break is called for, you know?
Anyway, not the point of this message. I have just discovered a piece of Human culture which I find quite interesting. It is the art of them picking an animal which embodies them, or certain aspects they wish to emulate. Various organizations have this, and it is rather creative. Something which I believe we should also emulate, and as such I have taken the liberty of picking out an animal (or insect!) which best suits you!
Now, you may disagree with this, but I would stress that I know what I am doing, and I'm going to all this work so you don't have to! But as we Ethereals are a much more enlightened and intelligent species than Humans, I believe instead of using the so-called "Real" names of these animals, we will instead utilize their proper scientific names!
It will be a learning experience for everyone! So, without further ado:
Aegis: Chelydra serpentine – While you may disagree with giving our resident traitor the glory of a mascot, I believe he is just as entitled to one as the rest of us. There is no better animal which illustrates his annoying tendencies, among which is "Biting the hand which feeds it". This is, I feel, an almost perfect animal embodiment of it.
The Battlemaster: Rangifer tarandus – When one thinks of the Battlemaster, they think of grace, power, and nobility. They also imagine him in the crossfire of many rifles, and of course how quickly he can run. It was not easy finding an animal that fit these requirements, but I have managed to come exceptionally close. You may refer to him as this when speaking to him, as it is now his official mascot.
Caelior: Canis lupus familiaris – Chihuahua – It is difficult finding an animal that even comes close to matching the wit, intelligence, bravery, strength, charisma, and even more traits that the Little Storm so wonderfully embodies, and at the same time embodies his temperament. But this one does all of that and more.
Cogitian: Tytonidae – A wise and old creature which is often revered and well-liked for it's intelligence and curious quirks. Certainly an embodiment of our favorite Archivist!
The Creator: Ambystoma mexicanum – I'll be honest and say that after typing a specific google phrase I saw this and knew it was you. I didn't even need to know anything more about it, I had no idea what the fuck it was, which is largely how I'm feeling about you these days. No better match I can see!
Deusian: Schistocerca gregaria – Finding something with the blunt, destructive power wielded by our favorite Reaper is harder than it may seen, but in terms of destructive capability it was between this and Mastotermes darwiniensis, I choose this because it was more generalized. Indiscriminate, if you would.
Fectorian: Reduviidae – I bet you didn't expect this! Even Fectorian has a match in the animal kingdom! This one even makes armor (Like you!) – from the corpses of it's enemies, sure, but it's definitely more than most!
Isomnum: Solenopsis – This is basically what you are, Isomnum. Believe me we feel the same about you as Humans feel about these things.
Guardian 1: Carcharodon carcharias – Really, I had a whole bunch of options to choose from, and I'm not sure why I choose this one, but I'm sure you can make it fit.
Guardian 2: Latrodectus– Now this is one of the more interesting of Earth's creatures, and it embodies your quickness and decisive striking. Its name also reflects a notable consequence of your actions, all in service to the Collective of course!
The Imperator: Nominative draco – Now, what would be a fitting mascot for the most powerful Ethereal of all time? A difficult question, but one which I eventually found the answer for. There is no greater creature that has, or has not existed, that embodies the raw strength, power, and speed of this noble beast.
Nebulan: Ctenizidae – Something that hides in the shadows and conceals themselves – through camouflage – is very reminiscent of our dear illusionist. Especially one which strikes without warning and lures their prey to them. On an unrelated note, I really dislike creatures like this.
Macula: Medusozoa – This is a creature you would love, Macula, it has mastered time in a way that you have not yet. We may be functionally immortal, but this creature found the secret to immortality long before any of us did! Theoretically, anyway.
Mortis'Ligna: Rattus – I genuinely don't mean this as an insult, Mortis, if you ever recover, but this is honestly the best thing I could find. Initially unassuming, but often kills or causes disease just by being around. Nothing evil about it, but such is its nature.
The Overmind: Corvus corax – And here is a creature which I thinks reflects your intuitive and sometimes creepy nature of spying and watching over things. There is a certain Norse God I feel you would get along well with.
Quisilia (Me!): Unus cornu – I agonized long and hard over what creature suited me best, and as if by magic stumbled upon this. There is no creature which is more sparkly, magical, and unreal than this one – a special creature which none can perfectly emulate. I am reminded of myself a lot by observing it.
The Ravaged One: Priscacara liops – You may wonder why I bothered even giving our recently departed not-Reaper a mascot. It is because at this moment, both this mascot and him share certain similarities.
Revelean: Mus – Like you, Revelean, these creatures are usually involved in science!
Sana'Ligna: Phascolarctos cinereus – Everyone likes these animals, they are cute, cuddly, and liked by children! There are a lot of similarities between you and this, Sana, I believe that you will be able to determine them quickly. May I suggest you get some from Earth? With Australia under our control, I am sure we can arrange it.
Sicarius: Phymatinae – Nebulan's mascot would work well for you as well, but there are a lot of things both you have in common. So it makes sense that both your mascots would be of similar skills and abilities!
Our Resident Sovereign Representative: Crotalus atrox – This, I believe, sums you up quite well. Well, not quite how you were, but as the result of your exalted position. The Humans have already made a flag with a similar creature on it with an excellent moral!
I hope all of you deeply appreciate the time and effort I put into this, and feel proud of your new mascots!
- Quisilia
A/N: Timeline is a bit off on this one since it's actually been written for a while and I finally decided to post it.
- Xabiar