Bacoon

ENCOUNTERED Aquas CLASSIFICATION Deep-sea biotech weapon OFFENSIVE CAPABILITIES Bioworms, explosive projectiles DEFENSIVE CAPABILITIES Durable exterior shell

INTEL Intelligence reports indicate that Dr. Andross's forces have deployed an enormous bioweapon on the planet Aquas. Referred to only as "Bacoon," this gargantuan invertebrate of war inhabits the most contaminated depths of the ocean, suggesting that it somehow thrives within the pollution—or more likely, that it is the source of the pollution.

Bacoon stands as an especially dangerous testament to Andross's biological and technological genius—and his unmatched capacity to bring those disciplines together. The creature appears to be a large mollusk that Andross has dramatically mutated, modified, and enlarged. Cybernetics are so thoroughly interwoven throughout its anatomy that there is no clear delineation between where flesh ends and circuitry begins.

Prominent features include an impervious outer shell held in place by tendon-like stalks, an eyelike orb that may serve an important processing capacity, and abundant pearl-like explosives that Bacoon can launch toward enemies at tremendous force and volume.

Be advised Enhanced wormlike creatures appear to have formed a symbiotic relationship with Bacoon. These Bioworms live atop its shell and protect the creature from attack.

This symbiotic partnership has led to speculation among Corneria Defense Force scientists that Bacoon may be releasing a kind of pollutant that gives it influence over lower life-forms. This theory could account for the enhanced size and hostility observed in the surrounding sea life.

ASSESSMENT While Bacoon's central orb is an obvious target, it may not be vulnerable at the onset of a confrontation. Combatants are advised to first target the two tech-and-flesh "tendons." Additionally, while the pearl-like projectiles can be evaded, destroying them presents an opportunity to acquire resources—which may turn the tide of battle.