"Excellent work out there," Aren said with a smile, focusing his attention on Jal and Mhegan. "You two in particular took out a substantial number of enemy forces, and you should be commended. Congrats on making your first kills in the Shadows, Jalith." He rose, patting her on the back as he continued. "And of course, without Shiz or Keira, we would not have had the necessary data to repel the assault," he said, smiling at the other two women in the room. "Now, on to the report. We were attacked at the southern gate, the weaker of our two exit points from the compound. However, the enemies have discovered our weak point: The canyon to the southwest of the base. Shiz, can you pick up some artillery batteries and have them delivered to the base ASAP? We'll put those up along the canyon, ensuring that nothing can get through." As he spoke, his eyes danced and sparkled, turning a sapphire blue that they very rarely did.<br/><br/>"Now, I've recieved our next mission from HQ, and it's not a pretty one. The Daeners have a massive installation about 6 miles south of our current position, here," he gestured to a map that had appeared overhead, projecting the exact area of the enemy base, "We think they're trying to get a foothold on the rhodesian plains just north of their installation." Aren walked around the table, eyes turning serious. "Now, this isn't going to be a cakewalk; the Daeners aren't just going to let us waltz in and poke around; the best option we have is something similar to what they ran on us tonight. We attack from the front, drawing the brunt of their forces to the main gates. Meanwhile, I want Shiz, Keira and Mhegan to take their mechs to the rear entrance, penetrating their defenses. No matter where we come in from, it's gonna be a firefight; we'll need our heaviest armor and guns, and be prepared for some serious repairs on our return. Now, I understand that Shiz found a computer core in the wreckage; that's spectacular. We have to analyze the data on the computer, to figure out what their plans are. Also, we have a guest in the main holding cell; I don't want anyone going down there without Max or myself; I don't doubt your ability to defend yourself, but I don't want to take any chances either. So, until further notice, no one is to interact with the prisoner without one of us present. Any questions or suggestions for the next mission? Remember, we have two weeks to prepare for the big day, which will give us time to get anything you need."