Die Maschine/Intel

There are currently 80 pieces of intel in Die Maschine. They are split up into four different categories, each of them regarding a different force within the narrative of the map. These categories are Requiem, Omega Group, Maxis, and Dark Aether.

The map launched with 59 intel available with 21 more intel added with Season One of Black Ops Cold War.

Requiem

Audio Logs

"Projekt Endstation Scientists Doctot Vogel and Doctor Kurtz initiate the Cyclotron Test Run Number 12"

— Description

Kurtz: I have completed my adjustments, Dr. Vogel. You may begin recording.
Ulrich Vogel: Thank you, I already have. This is Ulrich Vogel, director of Projekt Endstation. 7th of March, 1944, 10:03 P.M. Commencing cyclotron test run number twelve. Dr. Kurtz, please proceed.
Kurtz: All readings are within acceptable parameters. Looks like we are getting the collisions we expected and... um... some interesting patterns are starting to-
Vogel: What was that?
Kurtz: I do not know. Gauges are red-lining. We have to shut down!
Vogel: Mein Gott! What is happening to the air around the collider?
Kurtz: You men! Back away from that-
Vogel: Kurtz! Cut the power!
Kurtz: I'm trying! Controls are not responding!
Vogel: Guards! Retreat! Seal those things in the chamber!

"Doctor Vogel records a report on the Incident. He suspects the Cyclotron has opened a rift across spacetime. He notes that radiation of some sort is spilling through from the other side, as many of his men have been infected by an unexplainable sudden illness. Doctor Vogel describes it as "living death"."

— Description

Vogel: Ulrich Vogel, director of Projekt Endstation. 12th of March, 1944. Five days have passed since the accident, and I am starting to see it not as a setback, but a breakthrough. Literally. The cyclotron continues to operate, apparently without an external power source. We cannot deactivate it, and it is still manifesting the strange phenomenon I call a "rift", and Kurtz calls a "wormhole." We attached instruments to the end of a long metal pole and passed it through the rift. The readings confirm that somehow the cyclotron ripped through the fabric of spacetime. Something lies on the other side. A parallel world or perhaps a whole universe. But we dare not approach too closely, lest we suffer the same fate as the men currently held in our medical clinic.

"Doctor Vogel discovers an element from the Dark Aether as the source of his men's transformation. It is classified as Exo-Element 1."

— Description

Vogel: Vogel. 16th of March, 1944. We have finally isolated an unknown element in the men who were transformed by the cyclotron accident. And even at this early stage, it is clearly a remarkable substance. For now, we have classified it as "exo-element one." Kurtz suggested "Vogelium." *tsk* Such an ass-kisser. The current theory is that, at sufficient concentrations, exo-element one triggers the horrific transformations experienced by the men closest to the cyclotron rift. I am currently designing a chamber to withdraw exo-element one from the occupant. My hope is to somehow purify the men and reverse their necrotic condition. If we can learn to control the necrotization process, I believe it could be weaponized. Imagine: an army of unkillable soldiers. Even at this late point in the war, I may have found the key to saving the Reich.

"Doctor Vogel and Doctor Kurtz discuss their new orders from the Reichstag."

— Description

Vogel: Dr. Kurtz. You have memorized the new orders, yes? Did you burn after reading?
Kurtz: Ja, Vogel. And I thought security was tight before the accident. Do you think we can actually accomplish what the Reichstag is asking for?
Vogel: I would not have suggested it if I did not think it was achievable. But let us guard against overconfidence.
Vogel: If we do not deliver, they will find someone who can. And I am not about to give up control of this discovery.
Vogel: All we need is to send through a few volunteers to measure the specific relativistic differential-
Kurtz: Volunteers?! Would you take on such a task?
Vogel: Mind your words, Dr. Kurtz. I would hate for someone to question your commitment.
Kurtz: You... are recording this?
Vogel: What we do now will ensure the Chancellor's dream of a thousand-year Reich. There must be a record.

Documents

"A letter from Uranverein Director Doctor Kurt Diebner, announcing that Projekt Endstation has been approved for funding as part of the Reich Atomic Program. Contstruction is to being immediately."

— Description

Dear Dr. Vogel,

It is my great pleasure to inform you that after a thorough review by our resident experts, we have decided to proceed with the cyclotron proposal submitted by yourself and Dr. Kurtz. Projekt Endstation is officially funded.

A site has been chosen in Reich District Danzig West Prussia for construction and operation of the particle accelerator. However, this is all contingent upon a commitment from yourself and Dr. Kurtz to personally oversee daily operations at Endstation. This will mean taking a leave of absence from the University, but I believe this endeavor should provide a bit more excitement than the halls of academia.

Remember, the Reich will expect dramatic advances in uranium enrichment from you. I know you long to make some contribution to the study of quantum physics, but the atomic weapons program comes first.

The Reich District Danzig West Prussia site is in a wooded area called Morasko. Labor for construction will be provided by nearby internment camps.

As with all Uranverein programs, Projekt Endstation will be kept a state secret. Do not speak of this to any colleagues, other than Kurtz. Both of you must report here at the Institute no later than Monday morning. I will arrange for transport to the Morasko site so you can oversee construction of the cyclotron.

For the Fatherland,
Kurt Diebner, Ph.D.
Director, Uranverein

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"A hurried sketch of Projekt Endstation's dimensional breach, drawn by a research assistant."

— Description

Excerpt from "Spacetime Breach Sketch":

For Reich High Command Only!
Sketch of possible spacetime breach
Endstation cyclotron
7. March 1944
NOTE: Breach is persistent but unstable. Will send through instrument probe ASAP. Results forthcoming.

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"The blueprint of the Decompressive Isotopic Enstrangement device. The device collects hazardous materials, including Exo-Element 1, and, when at capacity, releases a devastating concussive blasts."

— Description

Excerpt from "D.I.E. Blueprint":

Weaponized Exo-Element 1 collector.
Device ingests a range of hazardous materials.
Collected energy stored in capacitor/battery.
Charged D.I.E. released energy as destructive blast.
Weapon output manifests as cold, electricity, gas, plasma, or concussive force.

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"The blueprint of Der Wechsler. One of Doctor Vogel's pet projects, Der Wechlser was a decontamination chamber designed to restore the brain functionality of those infected by Exo-Element 1."

— Description

Excerpt from "Der Wechsler Blueprint":

Isotopic impellers extract radiant contaminants from subject's brain.
Initial results: partial success. Further trials needed.
Subject 1. Remembered own name. Called all others "schnitzel."
Subject 2. Returned to guard post. Used it as a latrine.
Subject 3. Correctly unloaded handgun. Then ate the bullets.

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"Recovered Projekt Endstation Cipher. Decryption is required."

— Description

This cipher is an Enigma M3 cipher with UKW B as the reflector, 6 2 7 as the rotors, P F J as the position, G R A as the ring, and UB RT FO VN QE JP AG LY as the plugboard.

"Inform the chancellor that preparations have been made to open the third front. Endstation is ready to receive the package as soon as it can be assembled and transported. We are honored to help facilitate the Reichstag's plan. - V"

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"Recovered Projekt Endstation Cipher. Decryption is required."

— Description

This cipher is an ADFGX cipher, with Heimat as the transposition key, and TWUGZLVXDKHYENACSIQMPFRBO as the alphabet.

"Abreise ohne weiter Zwischenfälle. Alle Werte stabil. Ankunft in Germania. Wie besprochen, was jetzt auch passiert, der Sieg ist uns gewiss. - V"

Translated to English: "Departure without further incident. All values stable. Arrival in Germania. As discussed, whatever happens now, victory is certain for us. - V"

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"An entry torn from Doctor Vogel's Personal Diary, chronicling the Incident and its aftermath. Uranverein has taken great interest in Projekt Endstation's discovery."

— Description

Entry 203
9 March 1944
Dr. Ulrich Vogel
The last few days have been a blur, but I must record these events regardless of how preposterous they will seem.
We activated the cyclotron at 10:03 pm two nights ago. I knew immediately Dr. Kurtz's modifications had gone too far. There was a sound like a high-pitched turbine crossed a human scream. Then it looked as if the air itself ripped open and the radiation alarms went off. I immediately tried to cut the cyclotron's power, but the machine continued humming along.
Whatever energies were released, they had a profound effect on the men standing within ten feet of the breach. They fell where they stood, only to rise again, moaning and screaming, their flesh necrotized. As they attacked the rest of the staff, I ordered the Cyclotron chamber sealed. We have since captured our "undead" personnel and placed them under observation. But I have no idea why any of them are still conscious since not one has a pulse or any ordinary life signs.
While I help the medical staff try to find a way to reverse these men's condition, Dr. Kurtz has been studying the strange "tear" that manifested on the cyclotron. He posits that it is actually a hole in spacetime and that another world can be glimpsed through it. Furthermore, there seems to be a strange relativistic discrepancy between us and this other "dimension," for lack of a better term. We immediately reported all of this to our superiors at Uranverein.
Rather than a reprimand, Berlin responded with great interest, encouraging us to further study the spacetime rift. This is now our top priority. Atomic weapons research is on the back burner. The thought that we have accessed a dimension where time passes at a different rate presents us with a remarkable tactical opportunity. The Fuhrer himself understands the implications. He has taken a personal interest in Projekt Endstation. And that is one man I dare not disappoint.

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Radio Transmissions

"Officer Weaver, the head of Requiem's Field Operations Division, briefs his strike team about the state of the world, and their role in the CIA's newest department"

— Description

Grigori Weaver: Strike team. Weaver here. I understand this has been a lot to take in. Interdimensional breaches all over the world, an infection transforming people into the undead, not exactly a great two weeks for any of us. Requiem had to react quickly. The same day I was personally requested to run Field Ops, I was ordered to assemble a short-list of operatives. That's you guys. Here's what we know. Two weeks ago, a KGB-Spetsnaz unit known as Omega Group came here and reactivated its particle accelerator. Their actions caused the Outbreak Zones we're now seeing around the world. This place is ground zero. Why they did it and to what end - that's what we're going to figure out.

"Doctor Elizabeth Grey, the head of Requiem's Unnatural Sciences Division, introduces herself to the strike team."

— Description

Elizabeth Grey: Strike team? You there? 'Course you are. Sorry, I'm a bit new to all this. Hopefully you don't mind the less-than-formal-approach. Should probably introduce myself. My name is Doctor Elizabeth Grey, head of Unnatural Sciences, and this is about as unnatural a Sunday as I can remember. Normally about now I'd be sitting in my lab in Bristol, having a good natter with Pip and Sam, two macaques I work with, over a nice cup of tea... Then, just BAM - this whole thing happens. Next thing I know, I'm drafted by the bloody government to be their representative in this new organization, Requiem. I mean, how could I pass that up? Sure, the name sounds a bit ominous, but think of the opportunity, the potential discoveries that await us in this new reality - there's a chance I could end up changing the world.

"Doctor Grey discusses the Dark Aether and what it may offer humanity."

— Description

Grey: Yes, I know it seems like the proverbial "Dimension of Death" has opened right in our back garden, but there's a real life to it - and that's including the infected undead. The untapped potential of this discovery, this Aetherium... it could provide us with the tools to grow, evolve even, as a people and a society. Imagine that: no more war. Or at the very least less war. Put you out of the job though, wouldn't it? No offense, of course.

"Doctor Oskar Strauss, the head of Requiem's Energy Research Division, introduces himself to the strike team."

— Description

Oskar Strauss: "There are precious few things in the world more valuable than knowledge - and one of those is the ability to know how and when to utilize said knowledge." Do you know who said that? I did not think so. Dr. Vogel, the scientist in charge of Projekt Endstation, said it to me some forty years ago when I was employed at this very facility. I know you have your suspicions about me. I hear what your type says about me in the halls. "Mein Gott. Is that Doctor Oskar Strauss, former Nazi scientist? They put him in charge of Energy Research? It is so horrible." To this I have two things to say. One: I was never a fucking Nazi. I am, and always have been, a man of science trying to survive in a nasty, despicable world. Two: I do not care if you have your suspicions. All I care is if you are able to follow your orders.

"Doctor Strauss muses on the scientific potential of the newly discovered element."

— Description

Strauss: This energy source. The Germans called it "exo-element one." I call it by its proper name... Aetherium. It has the potential to revolutionize the world in ways we cannot possibly comprehend. I will understand these crystals. And I will learn the how and when to utilize it. I hope, if nothing else, you can appreciate that. All I ask is that if you let me do my job, I will let you do yours. There is no need to be enemies. In fact, one day I hope we can work together, side by side. Perhaps we will even consider each other comrades. Just do not expect a warm hug when you return from your missions.

"Major Mackenzie Carver, the head of Requiem's Containment and Security Division, introduces himself to the strike team."

— Description

Mackenzie Carver: Strike team, do you read me? Finally, a strong signal. I know the circumstances are less than ideal, but allow me to formally introduce myself. I am Major Mackenzie Carver. My friends call me Mac. You will not. And yes, I am that Major Carver. Most likely, all the stories you've heard are true. But that is in the past. I'm a firm believer in living in the now and preparing for the future. As you may well know, I head up Requiem's Containment and Security Division. It's a post I personally requested. Make no mistake - we are at war. This is chess. And the Soviets' Omega Group? They just moved their queen into position. They're the ones who opened these portals, and you bet your ass it's to get some sort of tactical advantage over us.

"Major Carver considers the possibility of weaponizing the Dark Aether's technologies."

— Description

Carver: This is an entirely new dimension we're dealing with. The technology it could potentially offer is unfathomable. We may have nukes, but what if your enemy uses an interdimensional weapon - something we can't anticipate and counter? This is the new Arms Race and we've already fallen behind. Now look, I got nothing against these eggheads and their... scientific pursuits. I'm just here to make sure DOD gets what's rightfully theirs. That includes Strauss and his Aetherium crystals. If we're to regain the advantage over our enemy, we need to act fast, and make sure these science-types don't keep anything from us. Don't let me down.

Artifacts

"The D.I.E. Remote can locate and remotely activate the D.I.E. device. Be advised: do not activate with the D.I.E. device aimed in your direction."

— Description

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"The Decompressive Isotopic Estrangement Machine was initially designed to be an Exo-Element 1 collector, but an incident led to a design change. During an outdoor test, an assistant accidentally ejected a full capacitor all at once, triggering a shockwave blast that destroyed a military transport and Doctor Vogel's personal automobile. Projekt Endstation saw the device's full potential as a wonder weapon - and the assistant saw the full potential of a firing squad."

— Description

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"The Aetherscope is a portable scanner designed for studying the Dark Aether. The device is capable of uncovering strange phenomena, including Spectral Reflections of past events reoccurring outside spacetime parameters."

— Description

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"Doctor Vogel's Diary, containing many untold secrets of Projekt Endstation - including the password to the Der Wechsler Command Console."

— Description

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"The Decontamination Agent, a component for Der Wechsler made of gold, was thought to have been lost when it was stolen in 1945. However, it was recovered nearly forty years later when it was found in a tree near the facility - apparently, the thieves forgot where they'd hidden it."

— Description

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Omega Group

Audio Logs

"The Russian 8th Guards Army arrives at the Projekt Endstation facility, one week after it was abandoned. Privates Alexei Dmitriyev and Vadim Kalashnik record their unit's exploration of the facility."

— Description

Alexei Dmitriyev: What in Hell is this place?
Vadim Kalashnik: Okay, I am rolling...
Dmitriyev: Looks abandoned...
Dmitriyev: "Enemy horde"...?
Kalashnik: They mean us, Dmitriyev.
Kalashnik: Whatever is down here, Geiger counter does not approve.
Dmitriyev: Kalashnik. Have you ever seen such machinery?
Kalashnik: Only in nightmares, Dmitriyev...
Dmitriyev: You there! By big machine! Surrender! I said surrender!
Dmitriyev: Vadim, get this on camera...

"Kazimir Zykov, a mechanic from the 1st Guards Tank Army, is volunteered by Colonel Pavel Lazarev to deactivate the Cyclotron."

— Description

Pavel Lazarev: Zdravstvuyte. My name is Pavel Lazarev. I was sent to contain this mess, and you are going to help me. Comrade, state your name...
Kazimir Zykov: Kazimir Zykov. Starshina. 1st Guards Tank Army. I, ah... I am mechanic.
Lazarev: I was told, despite your limited education, you understand German equipment.
Zykov: Well, I... scavenge parts from Panzer tanks to keep our T-34s running. How can I be of service, comrade Lazarev?
Lazarev: There is a machine I need you to deactivate. It is called a "cyclotron." It leaks... strange radiation. You have seen what it does to men.
Zykov: Da, Colonel. What if same thing happens to me?
Lazarev: You will not fail, Zykov. You may not survive, but you will not fail. Understood?
Zykov: Da.
Lazarev: Congratulations, tovarisch. You are going to be a Hero of the Soviet Union.

"Sealed inside the Projekt Endstation Facility, Zykov records a final message for his family."

— Description

Kazimir Zykov: My dearest Raisa. It is me - your Kazimir. I am sorry to break my promise, but I will not be coming home to you. I have orders to turn off a German machine. Diesel engines I understand. Radios I can fix. But this... ? The things down here tried to kill me. Perhaps they already have. But not before I finish my mission. I cut all power, but still the machine runs. And I swear... sometimes... I hear it call my name... I am going to try one more thing... if the dead will let me. I have tools, but not many bullets... That svoloch Colonel who ordered me down here... I do not do this for him. I do this for the world. For Mother Russia. I do this for you, Raisa. My love for you will never die.

"Doctor Aleksandra Valentina, Lead Scientist of Omega Group's Psychotronics Research, reports that she has given the order to reactivate the Projekt Endstation cyclotron."

— Description

Aleksandra Valentina: This is Dr. Aleksandra Valentina, Psychotronics Research Lead for Omega Group. It is the 1st of November, 1983. I have just given the order to reactivate the Projekt Endstation particle accelerator. It is a monumental moment in Soviet history. Some, including myself, might even call it a turning point. Valentina: Two officers have volunteered for the task. Their courage and sacrifice represent the pinnacle of Soviet strength. Their names will be echoed through Lubyanka's halls. They will be remembered as heroes. It has all happened so quickly. Four months of research, testing, planning and staging. I must thank Chairman Chebrikov, Chairman Andropov and the rest of the Politburo. Without their support, Operation Undertaker would not have been possible. With the cyclotron's reactivation, not only will we reopen the dimensional gate first discovered by the Germans forty years ago... but also additional dimensional gates around the globe. With these new gateways opened, we will proceed to Phase 2 and begin the real work: research of this new dimension, and the development of new technologies. These technologies will be critical to our future. It is the turning point that will put us well ahead of our enemies in the West. We were the first. We are the last.

"Doctor William Peck, Lead Scientist of Omega Group's Exoscientific Phenomena Research, reports that Operation Undertaker was a success, paving the way for the next phase of Omega Group's plan."

— Description

William Peck: Personal Log. Dr. William Peck, November 3rd, 1983. Operation Undertaker has been declared a... "resounding" success. Intel has reported in from around the globe. We have confirmed the existence of multiple dimensional gates. To the surprise of many, including myself, it appears Dr. Valentina's hypothesis was correct. In fact, her results have surpassed expectations. Credit where credit is due. But now we're on to Phase 2, where my expertise comes into play. I've received a report that a live specimen has already been acquired and transported to my facility for analysis. The organisms of this other world are unlike anything I've seen. There is so much we can learn from them. It's not just the creatures, it's these crystalline growths. The Colonel wants weapons? Why stop there? We can do so much more.

Documents

"A letter from Zykov, written to his wife as he attempts to deactivate the cyclotron. He explains that his sacrifice is not in vain, and it will help shape the world for the better."

— Description

From Sgt. Kazimir Zykov, 1st Guards Tank Army

To Mrs Raisa Zykova - Baruta Towship, Pskov Oblast

Raisa, I do not know if this letter will ever find you, but you deserve an explanation. I want you to know that I did not abandon you and little Anya to fend for yourselves. I was ordered to do something impossible, and like so many before me, I answered the call of Mother Russia. The details are not important. You would not believe me, anyway. But if my death can prevent many others, maybe even yours and Anya's, how could I refuse? Some things are worth dying for.

Do you remember growing up in our little village? Do you remember the famine of '22? Children like walking skeletons? Rumors of cannibalism? Then came the plague in '29. I remember being chased by packs of starving dogs roaming our streets. But no matter how bad things got, what pulled us through as a people was our endless capacity to endure hardship. This is what sets us above other nations. This is what will sustain me in this final mission. And sustain you and Anya in the years ahead to carry on without me.

Not even Stalin's purges shook our belief in the Soviet Union. Revolution is seldom clean or peaceful, but the workers of the world will unite. The day will come when all men and women are equals and each has their share of the wealth. Surely, we could not suffer so much for nothing. The world will change for the better. Our people will see to it. Knowing Anya will grow up in that bright future is worth any price.

Love,

Kazimir

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"A second letter from Zykov, written to his wife. He fears his sanity is slowly slipping."

— Description

From Sgt. Kazimir Zykov, 1st Guards Tank Army

To Mrs Raisa Zykova - Baruta Township, Pskov Oblast

How long have I been down here? One day? Two? It has not been easy, my love. When I wrote that first letter to you, I had no idea how hard this would be. All I have is a tool kit, a gas mask, a flashlight, and too few bullets.

Here is the situation: German scientists built a machine here. I have no idea why, or how it works, but I think it opened a door to Hell. Yes, Raisa, Hell. I know we were taught religion is the "opiate of the masses," but I have spent the last few hours fighting demons and dead men. So, apologies to comrade Marx, but Hell is real and it is my job to slam the door shut before the Devil arrives.

I cut every cable I could find, but the machine seems to have some internal power source. Or perhaps it is powered from the "other side." I tried corrupting its fuel, like pouring sugar in a gas tank. I tried grounding and short-circuiting the machine. And still it functions. The whole time, I am attacked and hunted by walking nightmares. And when I hide to bind my wounds, I swear I can hear the darkness calling.

Am I losing my mind? It is a good question. Better question: what if I fail? I fear this evil will spread and one day be upon your doorstep. This I cannot allow. My final idea to close the Hellgate will most certainly kill me. At this point, I think I will welcome it.

Farewell,

Kazimir

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"Recovered Omega Group Cipher. Decryption is required."

— Description

This is a Beaufort type cipher, with the key being "outbreak".

"Attention K:
Initial survey of Ural site verifies it is by far the largest incursion zone yet recorded.
We must assume Requiem will detect it via satellite and deploy fire teams, regardless of sovereign borders.
Recommend continuing operations while monitoring Requiem communications.
With your support I will ensure any new gains remain in soviet hands."

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"Recovered Omega Group Cipher. Decryption is required."

— Description

This is a Hill cipher, with a 3x3 matrix and the key being 7 16 1 18 1 2 18 0 3.

"Attention K:
P confirms viability of deployment. Opportunity identified in previous communique.
Selected site is approved for trial run of Operatsiya Inversiya.
The nature of warfare is about to transform. Any mission, anytime, anyplace.
G"

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"A Government document from the State Security Chairing Committee, approving the formation of KGB Omega Group."

— Description

On creation of new Spetsnaz special operations unit: Omega Group per order of Yuri Andropov, Chairman for State Security
Effective 30 August, 1975, KGB Omega Group is established to identify, study, and weaponize the types of psychotronic phenomena -- biocommunication, bioinformation and bioenergetics -- first identified in 1924 by the Soviet Committee for Psychical Research and later confirmed at the University of Leningrad Institute for Brain Research and the Czech Coordination Group for Psychotronic Research.
Omega Group will comprise handpicked specialists from the Spetsgruppa Alpha, Spetsgruppa Vympel and Spetsgruppa Smerch. Tactical support for both foreign and domestic operations will be provided by the First Chief DIrectorate. The commanding officer of Omega Group will report directly to the Chairman for State Security.
While Omega Group operations will be military, key personnel are being requisitioned from experimental research programs to investigate possible weapons applications of any exoscientific phenomena encountered. [Note: the Chairman frowns upon the term "supernatural."] Funding for Omega group will come from the KGB Discretionary Budget and will be disbursed proportionate to the scope of Omega operations. Experimental ordnance will be made available on an ongoing basis. Area of operations is global, but all missions are strictly covert. Neither the Soviet people nor the outside world can be aware of Omega Group's existence or purpose.

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"KGB Spetsnaz report on the status of Omega Group Operation Undertaker. Doctor Valentina confirms they are ready to proceed with cyclotron reactivation."

— Description

BACKGROUND:
23 March: US president Reagan announces Strategic Defense Initiative. If implemented, SDI constitutes a mortal threat to the Soviet Union.
25 March: KGB Chairman Chebrikov assigns new commanding officer to KGB-Spetsnaz Omega Group with orders to restore unit to full readiness and deliver results capable of offsetting the threat of SDI.
26 March: The Colonel orders Omega Group Research and Development team to scour KGB archives.
15 July: Dr. Aleksandra Valentina discovers two reels of film in an intelligence vault sealed since 1945. The content of these films, taken at a German site in Poland codenamed Endstation, is flagged for review by the Chairman of State Security.
2 August: Chebrikov convenes meeting with Chairman Andropov and top members of Politburo, screening the films and proposing the weaponization of the phenomena recorded at Endstation. Within two weeks approval is given for Operation Undertaker to be carried out by the Special Operations Group Omega.
MISSION STATUS: Endstation site in Morasko Meteorite Preserve secured 28 August. Cover story about unexploded ordnance supports armed perimeter to keep locals away. Dr. Valentina and Dr. William Peck began examination of abandoned German scientific equipment. Two months of study by Peck and Valentina confirm Cyclotron and other experimental devices are restored to operational condition. The Colonel is currently dispatching additional Omega teams to Endstation for particle accelerator re-start. Results will be provided to the Chairman after 2 November.
Dr. Aleksandra Valentina
Psychotronics Research Lead - Omega Group

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"KGB Spetsnaz report detailing the next phase of Omega Group's operation. Construction has begun on a new facility in Vietnam."

— Description

RE: Operatslya [redacted]
AUTHOR: Dr. William Peck
BACKGROUND:
16 August: Operation Undertaker is given formal approval to be carried out by Special Operations Group Omega.
1 November: Operation Undertaker is completed. Dimensional gateways open around the world, including one near the Huong Hoa district of Quang Tri province, Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
8 November: Chairman Chebrikov comes to an agreement with Chairman Pham Van Dong to construct a KGB-Spetsnaz Omega Group facility outside District Capital Khe Sanh.
9 November: Approval is given for Operation [redacted] to be carried out by Special Operations Group Omega.
11 November: Construction begins for Omega Group site near Khe Sanh.
MISSION STATUS:
Omega Group Operations site secured near Khe Sanh on 11 November. Cover Story about recently discovered US chemical weapon being accidentally detonated has successfully resonated throughout the community. Site construction has begun, with completion anticipated by 15 February. The Colonel has expressed in using site to begin testing on [redacted]. Additionally, Operation [redacted] will focus on further testing with [redacted]. Formal request to begin curating volunteers for experimentation has been submitted. Pending approval, expect our first full report before March.
Dr. William Peck
Exoscientific Phenomena Research Lead - Omega Group

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Artifacts

"A photograph of Omega Group Lieutenant Orlov's family."

— Description

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Maxis

Audio Logs

"BND Agent Samantha Maxis leaves a message for Officer Weaver."

— Description

Automated Voice: Code in.
Automated Voice: Access granted. Commencing recording.
Samantha Maxis: It's late here in Berlin - and it's cold, so I'm going to make this brief. Everything is so much worse than I thought. Sorry, Weaver - how's your day going? I'm going to be frank. I'm not sure who the hell I can trust at the BND. There's an atmosphere. People are leaving. New weapon are coming in... and I'm not sure how much choice any of them have in it. Point is, something seems to have everyone spooked and looking over their shoulder. Cold War paranoia - who'd have thought it? All I know for sure is there's a project file called... "Endstation."

"Agent Maxis leaves a second message for Officer Weaver. She's learned that a KGB Special Operations Group has special interest in Projekt Endstation."

— Description

Automated Voice: Code in.
Automated Voice: Access granted. Commencing recording.
Maxis: I'm hearing that something has lit a fire under the KGB's metaphorical ass. Something they found out about Endstation. There are - shall we say "extremists"? - within their ranks that are pushing a new agenda. Their department thinks they might have uncovered something that could be a game changer for the Cold War. All I know for certain is that they've allocated a huge amount of resources to fund a ground operation in Poland... What worries me more is I have no idea who around me I can really trust. Some here may already be working with them. They may even be listening in...

"Agent Maxis leaves another message for Officer Weaver. She's received a VHS tape from her KGB contact, which she's sending to him for review."

— Description

Automated Voice: Code in.
Automated Voice: Access granted. Commencing recording.
Maxis: So, this is the last you'll hear from me. For a while. I'm starting to feel that the walls are closing in, if you get my meaning. Two of my contacts have already been exposed. Well, I say exposed, but to be more specific one started singing as soon as he was detained. The other fell out of a window. Before the untimely "accident," he sent me a tape. I think it's what the new department is going after... Endstation. An associate at the BND, maybe the last one I can trust, will ensure its delivery to you. Right now I have no choice but to move, and burn everything in my wake. Forgive my breaches of protocol, Weaver, but these times are... unprecedented.

Documents

"The note attached to the videotape Agent Maxis received from her recently deceased KGB contact."

— Description

To those who need to know. I believe my recent actions have compromised my position. I expect the reprisals from my KGB colleagues to be swift and severe. I take some comfort knowing that securing the enclosed package means my fate will not be for nothing. The West has to know about Endstation before it is too late. Nothing else matters.

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"A note from Agent Maxis' BND colleague, Dieter"

— Description

Sam -

I'm worried and I don't know who else to turn to. The incoming case officer has instructed me - and everyone else in the department - to turn over the contact lists for all foreign nationals who acted as BND agents at any time over the last 5 years.

Agents in place I can understand - but why would they need to ID contacts for inactive operations? Why would they need to know where former agents were re-located after defection? It doesn't make sense. What are they trying to dredge up? I don't know. I'm sorry Sam - I know you've been the bagman recently. I just had to give you a heads up.

- Dieter

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"A letter from Agent Maxis to Officer Weaver. She's made contact with someone inside Omega Group and believes they can be turned"

— Description

W -

I know why you did what you did, but I thought I made it clear when we last spoke - I have to stay in the field. It doesn't matter how many people you send to bring me in, they won't succeed - I've gotten pretty damn good at looking over my shoulder these past few months.

Besides, I've already left Germany - I have a new contact within Omega Group itself. He's scared.

I think he can be turned.

- M

P.S. I am sorry for hurting your men - but broken noses WILL heal.

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Radio Transmissions

"Agent Maxis contacts the strike team and introduces herself."

— Description

Samantha Maxis: Hey. You know me, don't you? Sure you do. Hopefully. You're part of Weaver's strike team, right? My name's Maxis. I'm a friend. Sorry to start off with some bad news, but friends need to be honest with each other, so... I have reason to believe my communications channels with Weaver are compromised. I would say we do not know who is listening, but... even an idiot could probably work it out. Russians. So, I will continue to make these recordings in the hope that they may find their way to you without interference. P.S. Good luck.

"Believing the BND has been compromised by Omega Group, Agent Maxis has gone to ground as she continues her investigation."

— Description

Maxis: I'm going to assume you can hear me because the alternative is far too depressing to think about. I'm... in the field. Not an actual field, that would be silly. It's a churchyard in Romania. Don't worry, there are no vampires. Even if there were, I have garlic. And weapons. To be perfectly clear with you, I have reason to believe the BND have been compromised. So I have gone what some would term "a little bit rogue." It pretty much means I am operating without authorization or oversight. But since I've spent the last seven years working alongside spies from both East and West, you can hardly blame me. Don't worry. I know my scorpions from my frogs. This experiment. Endstation. If I'm right, it may be the turning point the Russians believe it to be. We have to stop them.

"Agent Maxis reveals she gave Officer Weaver the intel on the Projekt Endstation Site."

— Description

Maxis: I was the one. I'm the reason you're here. I gave Weaver the Russian intel about the site in Poland... and told him how much the Russians were interested in it. Right now, I'm operating on the theory that they knew that there was something big here - an unnatural power they could perhaps harness, and turn upon their enemies. Something no nation could be prepared for. Wait. Has Weaver even told you about the extent of the Outbreak Zones?

"Agent Maxis suspects Omega Group's research is far ahead of Requiem's."

— Description

Maxis: Hate to break it to you, but this event isn't an isolated incident. Russian forces are mobilizing in multiple locations across the world, and right now you're weeks - if not months - behind them. I wasn't sure at first but now I know who they are - a little known offshoot of the KGB known as the Omega Group. I'd seen mention of their activities a few times over the years, but I'd never given it much credence... up until recently. What the fuck is "exo-science" anyway?

"Agent Maxis muses on the shifting geopolitical landscape and the loyalties of Requiem's Striketeam."

— Description

Maxis: So right now, I'm looking at the big, bad Russian boogeyman that we know as Omega, and then, on the other side, there's you: a CIA-backed department known as Requiem. You know much about them? Or do you just follow orders? I suspect the latter, and I thank you for your service. This isn't me ragging on your operation. God knows me and Weaver got a history and a whole lot in common. But there's always the question... the worry... of divided loyalties. Weaver's half Russian. I'm German. Who were you fighting in World War Two? You sure you know who the enemy is now? This is a new landscape. None of this is what any of us are used to. I'm going to do my part while you do yours. I think there's a lot more to this than we know.

"Agent Maxis provides some insight into her history with Officer Weaver."

— Description

Maxis: I want you to know that I've been in your shoes, and you can trust Weaver. He is a good man to have in your corner. A good boss. Back in the '70s West Germany was a major investor and supplier to Iran. In exchange for oil and gas, we propped up their steel industry and aided their nuclear power program. I was there in '79 when the revolution kicked off. Western intelligence agencies coordinated with the CIA to ensure the Shah's safe extraction to the US, but a lot of diplomats and citizens weren't so lucky. Me included. If it wasn't for Weaver's intervention and willingness to go off the books, I'd be a forgotten memory by now. Trust him. Trust me. For now, I'm going to have to go dark. I'm en route to meet a contact in Southeast Asia. He says he knows exactly what Omega Group is planning.

Dark Aether

Audio Logs

"Is... is anyone out there? Can anyone hear me?"

— Description

Johanne: Is... is anyone out there? Can anyone hear me? I do not know how long I have been here. There are no days to count. Only an endless twilight...like a dream that keeps shifting whenever I try to focus on it. There are some strangely beautiful sights here... great, glowing gems, luminous creatures that float on the mist... but beauty means little when you are always being hunted. I should have never gone near that shimmering light. I never should have touched it. I thought it was a sign from God but... there is no God here. There is no God...

"Dead men wander this land, feasting on the living. If you can call it living."

— Description

Mariska: In the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Lord, it is me, Mariska. I do not know if my words reach you any more. I do not know if you care at all about the damned. For that is surely what I am. Damned. And I just want to know... why, Lord? What did I do to end up here? It is not the Hell I expected. No lake of fire. Only a cold, perpetual half-light that somehow seems even worse. Dead men wander this land, feasting on the living. If you can call it living. And I fear they may be...
Zombies can be heard in the distance approaching Mariska.
Mariska: Lord, they are coming! I beg you, protect me. Deliver me from this place! I should not be here! I should not- Mariska cuts herself off as the zombies approach her and attack her, presumably devouring her as she screams in agony as the audio log ends.

"I've met quite a few others who got trapped here. Every time the question comes up: are we in Hell or not?"

— Description

David: Okay... okay, okay, okay... think it through... reason it out... I've met quite a few others who got trapped here like me. And every time, every single time, the question comes up: are we in Hell or not? I mean, sure, this has to be Hell, right? Dead people, demons... feels as far from God as you can get. I even thought I saw ghosts here. But now I'm thinking maybe they're just folks back home, and somehow I'm seeing them through the veil that separates our worlds. Which brings me to the thought I just can't get out of my mind. What if... there is no Hell? What if this place is just a place?

"It is coming."

— Description

<Environmental sound of the Dark Aether dimension.>
The audio plays environmental noises within the Dark Aether dimension as a creature growls and screams towards the end, with the audio log cutting off.

"This place is a hodgepodge of creatures and artifacts, a collision of cultures and eras... I've seen ancient storybook creatures and mechanical monsters..."

— Description

Alice: I hope someone out there can hear this. I'm not quite certain this device even works. You see, I'm a historian. I was touring ancient sites in Peru when it all went dark. Suddenly, I'm in this... jigsaw landscape... This hodgepodge of creatures and artifacts... like a collision of cultures and eras. I've seen medieval structures alongside twenty-first century buildings. I've seen ancient, storybook creatures and mechanical monsters straight from a science fiction novel. And the thought I cannot seem to shake now is that the universe has a dumping ground for things that go bump in the night. Others I've encountered assume this is Hell. But it's worse. It's the dustbin of history. It's the rubbish dump of time. When the universe is through with you... this is your final stop.

"Confession time... and this one's gonna sound a little nutzoid, but stay with me."

— Description

Barbara: Confession time... and this one's gonna sound a little nutzoid, but stay with me. Please. Stay with me... So I've noticed that ever since I landed in this place, well, I've noticed some changes. In me. Physically. And, hey, I am not crazy, do not call me crazy, but... mentally, too. Bad enough when my skin started to wither. I look part alligator. My nails are growing like crazy, and my teeth... What worries me more is... how calm I am about it. I mean, at first I panicked, but... the more I change, the less I mind. Plus, I am not as afraid of the things I run into. I even - don't judge me. Don't you fucking judge me! I've... eaten one or two of them. I've gotta eat something! Anyway, I don't know if it's the fog, or those glowy crystal things, but this place changes you. Not all at once, but... I don't think I could go back now, even if I knew how.

"We thought this mission would be quick. How hopeful we were..."

— Description

Fritz: Fritz: We all thought... we thought this mission would be quick. This plan came straight from the top. How hopeful we were, taking that first step. Victory was ours. But we spent our bullets long ago, and... this place has changed us. I am not... the man I was. I am not... a man at all. I am just... so very tired...

"Atmospheric readings match crystal radiation signatures... personal contamination remains in safety range..."

— Description

Pytor: Field report. Lost contact with unit but continue to gather samples until comrades are reacquired. Atmospheric readings match crystal radiation signature. So this stuff is everywhere. Personal contamination remains in safety range. Four hostile contacts today. I killed three with small arms fire. The other I... avoided. May attempt engaging after I find my squad. There is much to explore here. Stand by for additional reports.

Documents

"Content unknown. No available translation. Possibly a system error from the computer."

— Description

$@$&) &%#!*(>*~}%<*>?:;=
?<-$@)

"Content Unknown. No available translation. The symbol arrangement seems almost intentional, it might not be a system error, but a scrambled message."

— Description

&!~>/";*!h:d)</$<]\0:@ Ja),":
5d*':kr ?/>+gh%#ater.

"Diary appears to be written by a stranger lost in a strange land, possibly a human trapped in the Dark Aether."

— Description

Day 95: Trying hard to keep track of how long I have been here. Strange, fractured land. Food and water not easy to find, but have enough for now. Ammunition more of a concern. Distress call best hope for rescue. Will start gathering electronics. Saw some while looking for food. No idea if I can build transmitter, but must try.

"The Stranger has had encounters with other humans - as well as other creatures. They are building a transmitter."

— Description

Day 175: There are others here, trapped like me. I avoid them. No time for their madness or sorrow. They usually get picked off before long, anyway. We are low on the food chain here. Creatures prowl this place, so I avoid them, too. They can be killed, but gunshots attract, so discretion better part of valor. Still have food stockpiled, but cannot last forever. Eventually I will be forced to hunt. And nothing looks remotely edible. Yet.

"The Stranger recounts a deadly attack."

— Description

Day 213: Hard day. Lucky to be alive. Observed group today sheltered in warehouse structure. They were arguing, did not notice approaching pack of plague dogs. I did something stupid. I ran to help. Did not know these people. Did not want to. But I could not turn away. Shot 4 dogs before the people grabbed their weapons. Warned them to exit warehouse. The dogs were inside before they started shooting. Pulled one out. Gas claimed the rest. Then the one I rescued ran back inside. Not everyone can be saved.

"The Stranger's attempts to build a transmitter continue to prove unsuccessful"

— Description

Day 937: Gathered lots of electronics. No success constructing transmitter. Some gear seems very old. Other components unlike any I have ever seen. Wish I could find instruction manual. Also finding shimmering "weak spots" where this world seems to overlap with home. Attempted to pass through but could not. Still, caught a glimpse of what looked like Southeast Asia. So close, yet out of reach. Must keep trying.

"The Stranger has discovered they can briefly return to our world, albeit only for several seconds before being yanked back. They say they were like a ghost, and that no one could see them."

— Description

Day 1,108: Attempts to pass through weak spots yielding limited results. Managed to lengthen glimpses of home into brief "visits." Location is different every time -- a jungle, a village, a glacier. I wander unseen, like a ghost. 10 or 15 seconds, then pulled back here. If I could only get someone to see me. If I could only ask for help.

"The Stranger reports seeing giants. They say they've met others who call them Elder Gods."

— Description

Day 1,646: Saw something new today. Something big. Tall as building, walking through fog. Difficult to see details. Kept my distance as it passed. I heard talk from others that "giants" roam this land but dismissed it as madness. Heard one call them "elder gods." Thought I catalogued all creatures here and their pecking order. I was wrong.

"The Stranger returns to their transmitter project."

— Description

Day 2,873: Latest "visit" home lasted close to 30 seconds. The world changed while I was gone. Was in military base. Watched soldier communicate on equipment like electronics I gathered over here. Saw how it is meant to operate. Returning to transmitter project. Attempts to consume local vegetation yield poor results, but I am subsisting on creatures now that would otherwise try to eat me. Strange satisfaction in that.

"The Stranger's reputation in the other dimension seems to have grown. No news on transmitter project."

— Description

Day 3,289: The longer I am here, the fewer creatures pursue me. Still see them take down newcomers, but me they tend to ignore. Unfortunately, more powerful creatures seem to have taken notice. Not sure why. Do they finally see me as a threat? I try to avoid them. Anyone would. There are things here worse than any nightmare.

"The Stranger has learned of a powerful overlord."

— Description

Day 4,100: Found one of the big ones dead today. Had the impression they left each other alone, but it was clear from wounds they fight among themselves.

There is talk here that one of the "overlords" is hunting the rest. Sounded like crazy talk, especially because some now worship the giants. But I have seen enough to believe it.

If one of the giants is imposing its will on the rest, I shudder to think what new order may emerge.

"The Stranger finds new machines that can dispense beverages."

— Description

Day 6,121: New devices turning up. Machines filled with beverages. At first distrusted them. Seemed like a trap. Waited for others to consume what they had to offer.

Results: beverages not only safe to consume but have profound effects useful for combat. Machines even play music while dispensing.

Not sure if someone is trying to help, or just messing with my mind.

"Verified: the computer is displaying messages; they appear to be diary entries of some sort. Unclear if these messages are stored locally on this machine, or if they are being transmitted from another location."

— Description

Day 13,773: Keyboard finally functional. Screen still hit or miss. Must re-test internal components, make sure nothing is fried. Still not sure if this thing is transmitting. At least I graduated from pen and paper, which are harder and harder to come by. Will continue transmission attempts. Have plenty to broadcast. My journal of survival. I can only hope someone is listening.

"Confirmed: these messages are being broadcast to this computer from the Dark Aether. The Stranger is attempting to establish communication."

— Description

Day 13,784: Very big development today! Passed through another weak spot and found a device set to frequency I use for broadcasts. My previous transmissions were right there on screen! No longer feel like I am talking to the void.

When I got pulled back here, I set my transmitter to indicate if receiving device has been used. Waiting now for any sign that someone is on the other end.

Feels strange, after all this time, having something to look forward to.

"Contact."

— Description

Hello! You are receiving my messages, yes?

I lost hope anyone was out there.

My friend, whoever you are, keep checking in. Must go now but will contact you soon.

Radio Transmissions

"I am still alive. I am trapped here."

— Description

Pyotr: It was supposed to be over quickly - in and out. But I was separated from the rest of my unit before our extraction. By the time I got to the exfil point, the equipment had been smashed to pieces. The radio is the only thing still functional. There may be no way back for me now, but I will do my duty till my last breath.

"The congregations in the valleys grow larger."

— Description

Pyotr: Like most souls here, I have stayed away from others since I arrived. But over the last few months I have seen ever larger groups congregating in the valleys. I hear their chants echo through the eternal night.

"There is a presence here the scale of which I cannot explain."

— Description

Pyotr: I have not seen it, but I know it is there. I've seen the destruction left in its wake... swathes of trees... snapped and broken as though they were twigs. It moves with purpose, but it is not a purpose I understand. I have not seen it. I hope I never do.

"A presence here has corrupted the minds of others."

— Description

Pyotr: I met an old comrade this morning. His unit were among the first of our soldiers to pass through to this world. I fear he has lost his mind, as he mostly rambled incoherently, speaking words I could not understand. From the little I could make out, he claims to have been here for many months. This is not possible. He deployed only one week before I did.

"There is a roar in the deep dark."

— Description

Pyotr: I have heard its guttural roar echo through the forests like a wounded animal screaming out in pain. I fear they are becoming an army.

Artifacts

"Altered by the Megaton's blast, the chemical nature of the fungus has been transformed, releasing a substance that most closely resembles liquid nitrogen."

— Description

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"The odor of Plaguehound Gas is as lethal as it is foul, causing light-headedness before melting a person's skin and evaporating their blood. A horrible way to die."

— Description

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"An elemental mineral from the Dark Aether, Projekt Endstation Scientists used this particular sample as part of a locking mechanism. Further study required."

— Description

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"Crafted from the energy of the Dark Aether, there is far more to this wrench than meets the eye. Particularly good for waking the dead."

— Description

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Trivia

• If the players aligned 3 parables to face the central antenna at the top of the Nacht der Untoten bunker, they'll be rewarded with 1500 zombies essence and the voice of Valentina is heard saying the numbers 3 4 5 8 3 4 8 2 5 which are the inverse matrix needed to solve the G Cipher.