StarCraft: Brood War Commentary - 4 - Protoss Campaign - The Stand

Commentary Index

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Index:
Prologue
XP-01. Escape from Aiur
XP-02. Dunes of Shakuras
XP-03. Legacy of the Xel'Naga
XP-04. The Quest for Uraj
XP-05. The Battle of Braxis
XP-06. Return to Char
XP-07. The Insurgent
XP-08. Countdown

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PROLOGUE :

The nefarious Zerg Overmind has been
destroyed and the Protoss homeworld of
Aiur now lies in smoking ruin. As the
Executor of the remaining Protoss forces,
you must now attempt to reunite your
beleaguered people and save them from the
ravenous Zerg who still roam mindlessly
across the blackened fields of Aiur.

Comment: Quick summary part one.


XP-01. "ESCAPE FROM AIUR"

Isolated Protoss base on the planet Aiur



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Bring Zeratul to the warp gate
- Zeratul must survive

Aldaris :

Greetings, Executor. Though we all
grieve for the loss of mighty
Tassadar, we must find the resolve
to carry on. He sacrified himself
to destroy the Overmind, but many
Zerg still rage across our ruined
homeworld. Without the Conclave to
lead us, or the protection of our
great fleets, it seems we must fend
for ourselves.

Comment: Quick summary part two, the scene is promptly set.

Already we can see that Aldaris has changed, he openly admits that 'mighty Tassadar' sacrificed himself to destroy the Overmind. That's coming from the same person who zealously put him down throughout the previous Protoss campaign, eventually having the Conclave imprison him. He personally accused Tassadar to boot:

Ah, Tassadar, have you fallen so far?
To think that you were our
brightest hope; our most beloved
son. Now you are everything that
we are not.

He doesn't openly repent for his past actions but maybe there's just not enough time.

It's good to see that characters change over the course of the storyline at least - some RTS games just have the characters die out or advance in military rank. The Conclave have been killed off entirely, their part has been completed, so I guess Aldaris is kept for the storyline and to represent the former rulers of the Protoss on Aiur.

Zeratul :

Aldaris is correct, Executor. As we
have both seen, the Zerg will not
halt their rampage until every last
one of us is dead. I suggest that we
retreat to our last functional warp
gate and travel to where the Zerg
cannot follow us.

Aldaris :

With all due respect, Zeratul, the
Protoss do not run from their
enemies. Aiur is our homeworld. It is
here that we shall make our stand!

Comment: Aldaris still shows his past stubborn nature. That is exactly what the Conclave attempted in the past. As Aldaris himself once said:

"We shall overcome the entire Swarm with the might and the fury that is our heritage!"

However, that was exactly what the Overmind wanted as it knew the Protoss couldn't overcome the billions that number the zerg Swarm. It took the civil war segment of the previous Protoss campaign, as well as the words of Tassadar and Zeratul, to finally convince Aldaris.

Zeratul :

Just as your Conclave did? They are
dead now, Aldaris, dead because
they allowed their pride to blind
their reason. Only if we learn from
their mistake can we live to
avenge them. Now, Executor, I know
of a place where we can find
solace. It is Shakuras, the secret
homeworld of my people the Dark
Templar.

Comment: Zeratul is still wise - and he certainly speaks a lot more ever since the moment in the Protoss campaign where he revealed the extent of the zerg threat. I suppose it makes sense that he remains like this, rather than returning to being solemn and reserved.

Aldaris :

Your people? We would be seen as
tyrants to them! Why would they
shelter us?

Zeratul :

Have I not pledged myself to your
cause? Not all beings are as
unforgiving as your lamented
Conclave, Aldaris.

Comment: I'm reminded of the quote "To err is human, to forgive divine." - it's a contrast to the practical facism of the Conclave. The Dark Templar were exiled from Aiur for not submitting to the Khala, as they wanted to keep their individuality. Despite being persecuted, they are apparently forgiving, hopefully the threat of the zerg and the devastation of Aiur would be reason enough to help anyway.

Aldaris :

You are right, of course. Executor,
Zeratul shall find us passage to the
warp gate. After the gate has been
secured, Fenix and the new Praetor
Artanis shall lead our surviving
brethren to Shakuras.

Comment: Yet Aldaris shows humility here - he was proved completely wrong in the past and doesn't hide it. His repenting manner was something we never ever saw until the very end of the original Protoss campaign. He went from being highly sanctimonious and authoritive to accepting the methods of the Dark Templar in slaying the Cerebrates. He even praised Tassadar and the player's forces:

"You represent the greatest in us all, and all our hopes go with you. EN TARO ADUN, brave Sons of Aiur!"

It seems that Aldaris has become more decent, or at least polite, but his earlier comment about remaining on Aiur shows he may not have completely transformed, though that isn't too surprising given the time frame.

Artanis :

Executor, I am Artanis. Though I
have only recently been appointed
Praetor, you can trust that I will
uphold the honor and traditions of
the Templar.

Comment: Fenix is effectively out of action, his dragoon status and the recent events must have resulted in him retiring from being Praetor. He still fights of course and his relationship with Raynor has grown. Given Fenix's eventual fate in the storyline, I suppose Artanis is introduced to build up his role and position, I believe he has a major role in StarCraft 2.

On the mention of Artanis, if you want to know how his name came about then simply reverse it. That is certainly no coincidence. Crazy ****ing Blizzard!

A wikipedia search results in other possibilities:
- Galadriel, a character in J. R. R. Tolkien's Middle-earth Legendarium, is also known by the name Artanis. This wouldn't be too much of a stretch considering the influences in WarCraft and occasionally in WarCraft (The Kel-Morian Combine for example - Moria being a location in Middle Earth).

- Artanis Productions, a movie production and licensing company owned by the estate of the late entertainer Frank Sinatra ("Artanis" is "Sinatra" spelled backwards). Practically the same as the above I guess.


Aldaris :

We shall see.

Comment: Ha! It's almost like a snide comment from Aldaris and shows that he still has some characteristics of his former self, but it still makes sense given Artanis' inexperience. It's the same short line he practically mutters after Zeratul's lengthy speech in "The Trial of Tassadar".

Raynor :

Hey, boys, mind if we tag along? I
figure headin' anywhere's got to be
better than stayin' here with the
Zerg!

Zeratul :

Commander Raynor.
As ever, your assistance is
appreciated. We would be honored if
you joined us.

Comment: It makes sense to re-introduce Raynor, to remind the player that he's still about.


Mission Start

*** Spot the first Zerg Nydus Canal ***

ZERATUL

We should destroy these Nydul Canals so as
to stem the flow of the Zerg reinforcements through
them.

*** Near the bottom left corner of the screen ***

ZEALOT

En Taro Adun! There is no time to waste. We
must join our brethren in battle.

*** Acquire more reinforcements near Ultralisk area ***

ZERATUL

Ah, it is good to see more of our brethren
on the battlefield.

*** Final reinforcement area (near upper right screen corner) ***

TEMPLAR

En Taro Adun, Zeratul! This is all that remains of our forces in this
province. We have found the location of the warp gate, but there
is a sizeable Zerg force blocking the way.


Comment: There's nothing much to say about the mission - it is a very straight forward battle from 'A to B' which is a good way of slowly re-introducing players to the game. There's a great speed run video of this with a player using Zeratul to blitz past the zerg in little over 1 minute (Link).

*** Reach the warp gate ***

ZERATUL

Executor, I have located the warp gate. We
must hurry and evacuate the Khalai survivors
before the Zerg return!

RAYNOR

Just worry about getting your people through the gate, Executor.
Fenix and I will hang back and protect our flank until everyone
is through.

Comment: The duo are content to fight alongside each other now. Jim does have his former colonial militia forces (To be re-named Raynor's Raiders at some point in the story) but is determined to fight alongside the Protoss forces by himself.

The designer's could have left him out entirely and made it a Protoss only affair. Maybe it's to thread him into the story (His use of Protoss allies later on is very important), or so the player has a 'trusty friend' (Remember that I noted Raynor in the first Terran campaign was useful for this reason) and a human face to relate to ("Why should I care about the Protoss?"). Hmm.

Mission End



XP-02. "DUNES OF SHAKURAS"

Protoss base camp on the planet Shakuras



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Establish a base and find the
Dark Templar

Artanis :

En Taro Tassadar, Executor. The
survivors from Aiur have made it
safely through the gate. Yet, amidst
the chaos of our retreat we lost
contact with Fenix and Raynor. I
fear that they may have been
overrun by the Zerg.

Zeratul :

Fear not, Artanis. Fenix is as
stalwart a warrior as I have ever
known, and the Terran Raynor has
proven himself to be highly
resourceful in the past. I for one
believe that they made it here
safely. But while we wait for word
from them, we must reconnoiter
the surrounding area and find a
suitable location for a more
permanent settlement. Once we're
situated we can begin to search for
the Dark Templar.

Comment: Good to see that Zeratul has faith in Raynor! I suppose this is to reassure the player and to let them focus on Shakuras.

Mission Start

*** Spot Zerglings at the beginning ***

ARTANIS

Executor! There are Zerg on Shakuras!
They must have taken control of the warp gate
on Aiur!

*** Build a Nexus, get attacked by Hydralisks, then the Dark Ones show up ***

DARK TEMPLAR

Neraz gulio.

DARK TEMPLAR

Ner'mah!

DARK TEMPLAR

Zerashk gulida!

DARK TEMPLAR

Adun Toridas, Zeratul! Glad I am to see that
you've returned home after these many decades.
But the strange guests that have followed you
here seem ill-tempered.

ZERATUL

Well met, my brother! Indeed, these creatures known
as the Zerg have no regard for the sanctity of life.
Once we have secured this area, I shall tell you
everything I know about them in council.

DARK TEMPLAR

I am sure the Matriarch will be eager to hear
your tale as well.

Comment: So the Dark Templar do not know about the zerg at all. I suppose they've been out of the loop on events in the sector - Zeratul came to Char due to the psionic emmanations, which turned out to be Kerrigan's rebirth as an agent of the Swarm. There he met Tassadar and the two cultures of the Protoss finally mixed. Zeratul has been busy ever since, so much that he hasn't been able to update the Dark Templar of Shakuras. In fact, if they're anything like Zeratul when we first met him, they're reserved people who generally mind their own business.

ARTANIS

Executor! We have received a transmission from Raynor
and Fenix! They are still alive, and are fighting to retake
the warp gate on Aiur! We must secure the gate on this
side without delay!

NEW MISSION OBJECTIVE:
- Destroy the Zerg base

Comment: Time to re-familiarise the player with base management missions.

*** Find the Warp Gate ***

ARTANIS

There is no sign of Fenix or Raynor. They must still be on Aiur!

*** Destroy the Zerg base ***

RAYNOR

Executor, my crew and I will remain here on Aiur and shut
the gate down on this side. It's the only way to make sure
that the Zerg won't send more reinforcements to Shakuras.

ARTANIS

You will be hopelessly outnumbered, and once the gate
is shut down there will be no one to save you should you
be overrun.

RAYNOR

Yeah, well... I'm a man of action. What can I say?

FENIX

I shall remain with Raynor as well, Executor. My duty is to
Aiur, after all.

ARTANIS

Farewell then, brave warriors. We will send through all
the troops we can spare.

RAYNOR

Thanks. You kids just remember to play nice from now on,
ok? Wish us luck.

Comment: As I usually wonder, there's surely a reason the designer's did this.

They separated Fenix and Raynor. For drama? Perhaps, or maybe it's to draw the focus on the Aiur refugees on Shakuras, so the story arc with Raynor is saved for the Terran campaign. Given that Kerrigan shows up (Apparently 'Overmind free'), I'm sure Raynor would have a lot to say to her. There's also the reason that the Protoss later help Raynor, as seen in Emperor's Fall. He doesn't seem to have friends with the Protoss come StarCraft 2 (Where he's moping about with his militia group) so Fenix's demise likely spells the end of that, or some other unknown reason.

Mission End



XP-03. "LEGACY OF THE XEL'NAGA"

Main Protoss settlement at New Antioch, Shakuras



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Destroy the Zerg cerebrates

Raszagal :

I am Raszagal, Matriarch of the
Dark Templar, and I welcome you
and your companions to our world.
Zeratul has informed me of the fall
of Aiur, and I am deeply grieved. I
am one of the few Dark Templar
old enough to remember our
ancestral home with clarity. Yet, no
matter how tragic the
circumstances, it is clear that
fortune has reunited our people.

We Dark Templar will never forget
our banishment from Aiur, nor the
Conclave's sins against us. But you
and your companions are no longer
of the Conclave. The example set by
your fallen hero, Tassadar, has
shown you that when the light and
dark sides of our energies are
united, our power is undeniable.

Comment: Raszagal is just over 1000 years old, being one of the oldest Protoss alive. You can read more of her younger exploits in the Dark Templar saga, while there's a good summary on this Wikipedia page:
http://starcraft.wikia.com/wiki/Raszagal

Unfortunately, as the plot twist of this particular campaign, she is being mind controlled by Kerrigan (Which when you think about it seems ironic since the new Dark Archon unit has that as its ultimate power). As Raszagal has access to her memories and what passes off as her personality, she musn't be completely mindless - it's more like Kerrigan is fully influencing and ordering her what to do instead.

With that in mind (No pun intended), this aspect is at least interesting to note when re-playing or reading the campaign dialog again - Kerrigan is pulling all of the strings to get what she wants. She's also demonstrating a ridiculous level of power and planning, enough to mentally enslave one of the most powerful Protoss leaders and doing so in advance of the Aiur Protoss coming to Shakuras. None of the other Protoss notice it either!

So she controls Raszagal which lets her ultimately direct all of the Protoss. While her methods are cruel and merciless, everyone has underestimated her power.


Aldaris :

But Matriarch, the Zerg who have
followed us here are unlike any
enemy the Protoss are ever
known!

Comment: At least Aldaris believes as much now - so much for the 'heritage' of the Protoss being enough to defeat them. Speaking of heritage...

Raszagal :

You speak the truth, Judicator. And
yet, there lies a dormant power
here that can help us to scour the
Zerg from Shakuras forever. Long
ago, we Dark Templar were a
nomadic people. But when we found
a remarkable monument upon this
world, we decided to remain here
to study it. We discovered that the
enormous structure is actually an
ancient Xel'Naga temple, dedicated
to the race that sired us all. The
Temple is situated above a nexus of
powerful cosmic energies. If we
were to access those energies...

Aldaris :

Then we should strike now while
the Zerg still muster their forces!

Raszagal :

Alas, we cannot. In order to
properly channel the energies of
the Temple, we will need the twin
crystals, Uraj and Khalis, that
legends say were separated many
ages ago. The Uraj is laced with
pure Templar energies, while the
Khalis is comprised of Dark Templar
energy. Only by using these two
crystals in unison, can we hope to
channel the potent energies of the
Temple.

Comment: The khalis having dark templar energies seems strange - khalis as in Khas, the Protoss founder of the Khalai religion, and it's lightly lit up, whereas the Uraj is dark purple and associated with the Khalai. Perhaps this contrasts the two Protoss cultures and how they're not quite so different after all?

Artanis :

Then it is clear that we must
retrieve these crystals wherever
they may be.

Raszagal :

Agreed. But first, we must deal
with the Zerg and their two
Cerebrates who have already taken
up station around the Temple itself.
To arms, my children! Scour the
Temple grounds of this foul
infestation!

Comment: This is the first time Raszagal is so bold. To the player it comes off as a courageous battlecry, but behind the scenes we know that Kerrigan just wants to ensure that Daggoth's cerebrates are killed. Surely the Protoss would do so anyway?

I'm not sure what Kerrigan's plan is here - she wants to kill the rogue cerebrates, but why go through all of the effort to secure the crystals and the power of the temple? It is something she has to counter later on, in the zerg campaign. I suppose she's just playing along..?

With all due credit to the excellent writers at Blizzard, I hope the mind control plot twist wasn't tacked on as an after thought.

Mission Start

*** Beginning of the mission ***

ZERATUL

Remember, young Templar, cerebrates can be killed only by Dark
Templar weapons and energies. My brethren will make short work
of any cerebrate!

ZERATUL

Executor, our sensors show that the two Cerebrates are surrounded
by spore colonies. We will deploy our Corsairs to compensate for
their defenses.

*** Kill the two Cerebrates ***

KERRIGAN

Well done, mighty Protoss! I'm glad to see that you all are as
violent as ever.

ZERATUL

Kerrigan! What mockery is this?

KERRIGAN

Relax, warriors. Despite what you may think, I haven't come here
to fight you.

ALDARIS

This is laughable! Do you truly expect us to believe that your
intentions here are honorable? That these Zerg here are not
under your sway?

Comment: Aldaris has never met Kerrigan, but he has no doubt heard of her 'exploits' on Char. It's also important to show his extreme repulsion at her, just like his old knee-jerk reactions in the first Protoss campaign.

KERRIGAN

Look, the Cerebrates you've killed were my enemies as well. If you
let me explain, I'm sure you'll understand tha-

ZERATUL

You are the enemy of all who live, Kerrigan. What makes you think
we would have anything to do with you?

KERRIGAN

Because, Zeratul, I bring news of an event that threatens us all. If
you'd be so good as to escort me back to your citadel, I'll tell you
everything I know.

RASZAGAL

Very well, Kerrigan. We shall hear what you have to say. But be
warned: We will not suffer your treachery here.

Comment: What Kerrigan says makes sense, but it's no surprise that the Protoss do not trust her.

There are several moments in Blizzard campaigns where a former enemy becomes 'free' of one evil and begins an agenda of their own. Though this is sometimes repetitive, it is nonetheless good drama.

However, as we learn too late in the Brood War campaign, it's one large elaborate ploy by Kerrigan.

Mission End



XP-04. "THE QUEST FOR URAJ"

Protoss fleet orbiting the planet Braxis



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Bring Kerrigan to the Uraj crystal
- Kerrigan must survive

Raszagal :

Now then, Kerrigan. Perhaps you
had best explain yourself. What is
this news you've come to give?

Kerrigan :

There is a new Overmind growing
on Char.

Zeratul :

What? Impossible! Why should we
believe anything you have to say?

Kerrigan :

Because, Zeratul, I'm no longer the
mindless murderess whom you
fought on Char. The Overmind is
dead. Whatever warped control it
once had over me is gone. I know
that this is a lot to take in all at
once, but you've got to believe me!
There's more at a stake here than-

Aldaris :

She lies! She is infested to the
core! I for one will not listen to any
of this-

Comment: Naturally, this is too much for Aldaris. He could stomach joining the Dark Templar and coming to their homeworld, but he refuses to believe that Kerrigan, now one of the zerg, has changed. I don't think it's likely he could see past her facade (Even if his psionic power is formidable), he's acting more on principle.

Raszagal :

Silence, Judicator. Continue,
Kerrigan.

Comment: I like how Aldaris' portrait disappears here. He really doesn't want to put up with this.

Kerrigan :

Apparently, many of the renegade
Cerebrates, commanded by Daggoth,
have merged into a new Overmind.
Fortunately, the creature is still in
its infant stages. It can't control
the Swarm yet, but Daggoth and
the others still have control over
most of the Broods. The two
Cerebrates you killed here were
part of Daggoth's forces.

Look, I don't need to tell you all
what might happen if that thing
reaches maturity. I can guarantee
you that should it awaken, it'll take
full control of me just like it did
before. I don't want that to happen,
and I'm pretty sure you don't want
it to happen either.

Zeratul :

Even if what you say is true, our
priority is to save this world, not
assault the new Overmind! We must
find the crystals Uraj and Khalis
before we are all vanquished.

Kerrigan :

Then I'll help you with your search.
If you can defeat the renegade
Zerg gathered here, it'll weaken the
efforts of Daggoth and his ilk.

Comment: In retrospect of my early comment, what Kerrigan says here makes sense to the Protoss, but it still seems like a lot of effort. I suppose another theory is that she's simply playing about with the Protoss.

Raszagal :

My children, you must put aside
your fears and misgivings to
accomplish what must be done. For
the time being, Kerrigan will assist
you in your endeavors. Though she
has been your enemy, it is enough
that we share the same agenda
now. Allow her time enough to
prove herself to you, and you may
find her to be a valued ally. For
now, you must focus on the task at
hand. Search for the Uraj on the
planet Braxis, and let nothing stop
you from recovering it.

Artanis :

We will do what you ask, Matriarch.
But you cannot expect us to forgive
Kerrigan's crimes against our race!
Executor, prepare our forces. We
shall debark for the planet Braxis
before the next moonrise.

Comment: Just look at how convincing Raszagal is, able to convince the Protoss characters, even if she's being controlled by Kerrigan. She does make a good case - in short, everyone deserves a 'second chance' - but Artanis is right in that it would be folly to completely forget her past crimes.

The small flaw in Kerrigan's plan for supremacy is that she's effectively playing as the 'boy who cried wolf' - the other factions in the sector aren't actively against her, while she can pretend that the Overmind forced her to be completely evil and brutal (She had free will in the Swarm - to a limited degree) and is now an innocent victim of sorts.

This isn't the case and she causes complete chaos, eventually backstabbing each and every one of them. The problem is best summarised as "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me." - if a new threat comes up in StarCraft 2 (Likely the Xel'Naga themselves) that presents a considerable threat to the zerg Swarm then she will have no allies left to turn to, she will be completely alienated.

Mission Start

*** Beginning of the mission ***

KERRIGAN

Explain something to me, Zeratul. Why would your people leave
such a sacred crystal in the hands of these Terrans?

ZERATUL

We didn't. Long ago, this world was a Protoss colony called
Khyrador. When the strife between our tribes escalated, this
planet and the Uraj Crystal were abandoned. These Terrans
have come here only recently.

ARTANIS

Executor, we have a problem. Our warp matrix was damaged
during transit. Because of the extensive damage, we will be
unable to warp-in stargates to this location!

*** Bring Kerrigan to the Uraj crystal ***

KERRIGAN

The Crystal's here, boys! Send in a probe to gather
it up and our work here is done.

ZERATUL

You have done well, Kerrigan. There is more
to you than it seems. Perhaps I have misjudged you.

KERRIGAN

Given our history, I can't say I blame ya. Let's
just get the job done.

Comment: We saw the transition of Kerrigan from a relatively laid-back agent of Mengsk to a brutal, cold-blooded queen - here she appears to be the former once more. Of course, it's not true, but the script is at least raising the player's hopes.

Mission End



XP-05. "THE BATTLE OF BRAXIS"

Protoss fleet, high orbit over the planet
Braxis



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Destroy all power generators to
pierce the UED blockade
- Artanis must survive

Artanis :

Executor! Our sensors have just
identified a large group of Terran
vessels. However, their
configuration profile is unlike any
Terran group yet encountered. We
are receiving a transmission from
the fleet's command ship, identifying
itself as the Aleksander.

Comment: As StarCraft wiki notes, the Alexsander is likely named after Alexander the Great, one of the greatest (and youngest) generals of the ancient world. Since the name is spelt differently, it could be a reference to someone else or even a French or Russian version of the name.

Stukov :

Protoss Commander, I am Admiral
Alexei Stukov of the United Earth
Directorate. We are here to take
control of the Terran Dominion and
all of its outlying colonies. You are in
direct violation of Terran space and
have openly attacked Terran troops.
Lower your shields and power down
your weapon systems. The UED will
be taking custody of your ships and
whatever spoils you have garnered
from this planet.

Zeratul :

United Earth Directorate? Raynor
spoke of the distant Terran
homeworld called Earth. These
humans have come a long way to
make war on us.

Artanis :

Have faith, Zeratul! You almost
sound as if you fear these humans.
What are they to such as we? Was
it not we who defeated the
dreaded Overmind?

Zeratul :

Yes, Artanis. We did vanquish the
Overmind. But we did so with the
help of humans. Do not be so quick
to underestimate them.

Artanis :

Of course. Executor, I shall test the
mettle of these humans by scouting
ahead of your ships, and finding a
way through this blockade!

En Taro Tassadar!

Mission Start

Comment: These levels are always neat - they're essentially collections of puzzles with different units to use. It's also nice to see Artanis showing enormous respect for Tassadar.

*** Destroy the first Generator ***

ARTANIS

Executor, with the power generator destroyed, the missile
turrets on this platform are no longer operational. However, we
will need reinforcements to finish the job.

*** After destroy a Generator (repeated on each Generator) ***

ZERATUL

Reinforements are on route now, young templar.

Mission End



XP-06. "RETURN TO CHAR"

Protoss fleet, high orbit over the planet Char



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Retrieve the Khalis crystal with a
probe or drone
- OR -
- Do enough damage to the Overmind
to send it into remission

Artanis :

Executor, the Uraj is secured and
the UED has given up the chase.
We are currently holding perimeter
orbit over the planet Char. Zeratul,
have you locked onto the location of
the Khalis?

Zeratul :

Yes. I remember sensing its power
the last time I was on this world.
However, our sensors indicate a
massive, fluctuating energy
signature at its location. I am,
however, unable to identify the
signature's source.

Kerrigan :

That should be obvious, gentlemen;
the source is the Overmind itself.
When the Cerebrates merged
together, they must have locked
onto the Khalis' energies and nested
near it. It's probable that there'll be
a number of Broods protecting that
area. It's risky, but if we can strike
hard and fast, we might be able to
fight our way through their
defenses and escape with the
crystal.

Artanis :

Comrades, I may have an
alternative. Seeing as how the
Overmind is still in its infant stages,
I wonder if we might be able to
disrupt its control over those
Broods. If we can do enough
superficial damage to the creature,
it might pacify the Zerg nearest to
it, allowing us some time to retrieve
the Khalis.

Comment: I suppose it would be too obvious if this was reversed, with Kerrigan suggested attacking the Overmind and Artanis mentioning the crystal. The writer's have worked on ensuring Kerrigan can be trusted after all.

Zeratul :

A bold plan, young Artanis. Your
courage rivals that of mighty
Tassadar himself.

Artanis :

You give me too much credit, noble
Zeratul. I am not worthy enough to
even speak 'His' name.

Kerrigan :

Touching. Look, boys, either of these
plans will work, but let's not waste
any time. I'll be able to exert limited
control over a few of the Zerg
here and provide you with some
back-up. But the longer we stay,
the more we risk losing both the
crystals again.

Artanis :

Agreed. Executor, deploy your
forces. May Adun be with you!

Mission Start

*** Bring a probe/drone to Khalis location, or damage the infant Overmind ***

ARTANIS

Executor, the Khalis is ours! Let us depart this wretched
world and return to Shakuras! ... Provided there is still a
Shakuras to return to...

Mission End



XP-07. "THE INSURGENT"

Executor's Citadel at New Antioch, Shakuras



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Kill the traitor Aldaris

Raszagal :

Congratulations, Executor. Your
success has brought us the promise
of hope against the Zerg. However,
we face a new threat within our
own ranks. In your absence,
Judicator Aldaris and an entire
legion of Khalai survivors from Aiur
have begun an open revolt against
us.

Zeratul :

By the gods, this is ill news indeed!
Why would Aldaris betray us so?

Comment: From one perspective, this level is a Protoss 'Civil War' one. It's arguable whether it's for the sake of gameplay or the sake of the plot - to be honest I think it's an excellent mixture of both.

Raszagal :

He and his ilk believe that it was
wrong to have abandoned Aiur and
consorted with our people. Their
prejudices have driven them to
perpetuate the Conclave's sins
against us! Even now, Aldaris and his
loyalist templar forces are
preparing to attack our Citadel.

Artanis :

I can scarcely believe this. As if the
Zerg were not enough! Matriarch,
are you certain of this?

Raszagal :

All too certain, young templar.
Executor, as Matriarch of the Dark
Templar and custodian of this world,
I hereby order you to terminate
Judicator Aldaris, and quell this
untimely uprising without delay!
There will be no dissent among us
while the Zerg are poised to strike!

Comment: Again, Raszagal is very bold about having Aldaris killed (Note the exclamation marks and tone). Kerrigan is yanking the strings to maintain her cover, while Zeratul suspects something about Kerrigan.

Zeratul :

There is something amiss here. The
Matriarch has always been a wise
and gentle soul. Though there is
some merit in her decision, this is
very unlike her.

Artanis :

That may well be... But right now
we have a friend to kill. May Adun
forgive us.

Mission Start

*** Beginning of the mission ***

ARTANIS

Be advised, Executor, our forces are divided. Aldaris has taken
control of our templar warriors and Arbiters. It is possible that he
may even send Archons against us.

ZERATUL

Fear not, comrades, for we have Archons of our own! Should the
dire need arise, all Dark Templar may merge to become Dark
Archons. Though we sacrifice our warriors in doing so, only the
might of the Dark Archons can match the forces of Aldaris.

*** Kill false Aldaris ***

ALDARIS

You didn't think I'd be caught so easily did you, Executor? You
have only destroyed a phantom.

*** Kill (another) false Aldaris ***

ALDARIS

Yet again, Executor, you destroy only a simulacrum of myself! You
believe me to be a traitor, but it is you and the Matriarch who will
usher our race to oblivion!

*** Kill the real Aldaris ***

ZERATUL

It is finished, Judicator. Surrender your remaining forces, and join us
in eradicating the Zerg.

ALDARIS

I would sooner die, dark one, than tarnish the memory of Aiur by
joining with you. Your fate was sealed the moment your Matriarch
allied herself with the Queen of Blades! Those of us still loyal to
Aiur will never be slaves to Kerrigan and her Broods.

Comment: Raszagal did not mention this earlier, she said Aldaris was acting like the Conclave once did. It's easy enough for the player to miss this distinction - I'm sure most people on their original play through would not make it.

I think Aldaris has gone paranoid, as he won't even reveal his discovery to Zeratul or Artanis, it's as if he doesn't trust anyone (It allows him to get interrupted by Kerrigan in a moment anyway). There is some justification here - someone with the power to mind control Raszagal could be doing the same to any number of other Protoss, but Aldaris just can't act rationally or calmly.

ARTANIS

Aldaris, be reasonable! Kerrigan has changed. She no longer
seeks to enslave everyone. Do not force us to destroy you.

ALDARIS

You can no longer afford to be so naive, Artanis. While you were
securing the crystals, I discovered that your Matriarch has been
harboring a dark secret! She has been manipulated by de-

Comment: "You can no longer afford to be so naive" seems harsh, but Aldaris is right - the stakes are getting so high, with the very survival of the Protoss race at risk.

Aldaris gets cut off however (And then in another way).

KERRIGAN

We have no time for this!

Comment: Aldaris is killed by Kerrigan's zerg lurkers. She was just in time to stop Aldaris revealing her master plan to Zeratul and the other Protoss.

ZERATUL

Kerrigan... What have you done?

KERRIGAN

I just cleaned up your mess, Protoss. Don't be so squeamish.

ZERATUL

Wretched creature! This was a Protoss matter; you had no right
to interfere! Begone from this world! You are no longer welcome
among us!

KERRIGAN

Fine. I've done what I came here to do. I've insured the
destruction of the renegade Cerebrates, and I used you to do it.
Have fun, mighty Protoss... We'll be seeing each other again,
real soon...

Comment: She's fine with leaving at that - there's no risk that Aldaris will reveal the dark truth and she still has control of Raszagal, though I do wonder why none of his other Khalai Protoss were told and so can't pass it on...

Mission End



XP-08. "COUNTDOWN"

Main Protoss base, the planet Shakuras



Mission Briefing

Objectives :
- Bring Artanis and Zeratul to the
Temple
- Protect the Temple from the Zerg
- Artanis and Zeratul must survive

Artanis :

This entire chain of events has been
masterminded by Kerrigan, and we
played right into her hands!

Comment: It's not even over yet, Kerrigan is still at work behind the scenes.

Zeratul :

Yes we did, Artanis. Yet our course
is set nonetheless. Using the
Temple's energies against the
renegade Zerg may accomplish
Kerrigan's aims, but it is still our
only chance of survival.

Raszagal :

And survive we will, my warriors.
For too long have we labored in
futile defense as our enemies push
us further and further away from
victory. The time has come to let
loose the full fury of our powers!
Never again shall Shakuras be
despoiled by the foul touch of alien
species! These Zerg shall be the
first to fall before us!

Comment: Here she goes again, note the aggressive tone.

'These Zerg shall be the first to fall before us!' seems almost militaristic, as if Raszagal is very willing to use the temple's powers against other threats or species, but I doubt that's the case.

Maybe Kerrigan's control is slipping or she's really pushing the Protoss to take the temple. I still don't quite understand it, as its power stops the zerg and causes Kerrigan to later carry out an operation on Shakuras due to its power ("Drawing of the Web"). Perhaps she wants to ensure the Dark Templar are kept safe in case she needs them? She does later, but that's with the UEDs Overmind, which does not exist yet.

Zeratul :

Matriarch, I have served you for
many millennia. I have always valued
your wisdom and strength. Yet
lately, in your mind, I have sensed
something that clouds your true
spirit. Though Kerrigan has gone, I
wonder if her treachery still
remains?

Comment: This is almost contrived - if Zeratul really suspects there's something wrong with Raszagal, why doesn't he just confront her directly instead of suggesting it to her? Does he have too much respect for her?

On the other hand, the possibility of Kerrigan's mind control just doesn't exist to Zeratul, only the possibility of the two working together.

Raszagal :

Be at ease, Zeratul. I am still the
same Raszagal you have always
known. These recent events have
weighed heavily upon me and I am
wearied. But fear not; my warrior
spirit will shine before you, and light
your path to victory.

Zeratul :

Indeed.

Artanis :

The time for action is upon us! The
crystals must be taken to the
Temple while the Zerg still muster
their forces. I shall carry the Uraj
myself, while Zeratul handles the
Khalis.

Raszagal :

Executor, you shall provide escort
for Artanis and Zeratul as they
make their way to the Temple. Gods
willing, we will channel the energies
of the Xel'Naga, and scour this
world clean of the Zerg! Go now,
my children, and know that the
survival of our entire race depends
upon your actions!

Comment: Again, maybe it's for drama, but it's made clear that the future of the Protoss is based on Shakuras becoming free of the zerg threat.

Mission Start

*** Beginning of the mission ***

RASZAGAL

When you bring the crystals to the Temple, the Zerg will surely
send all of their legions to destroy you. You must be prepared to
protect the Temple itself from the Swarm!

*** Bring Artanis to the Temple ***

ARTANIS

The Uraj is secured!

*** Bring Zeratul to the Temple ***

ZERATUL

The Khalis is secured!

*** Artanis and Zeratul successfully brought to the Temple ***

ARTANIS

Executor, Zeratul and I will begin to channel the
Temple's energies. You must prevent the Zerg
from destroying the Temple while we work! Adun
be with you, Executor!

NEW MISSION OBJECTIVE:
Save the Temple from being destroyed.

(Temple activates)

*** Secure the activated Temple for 15 minutes ***

ZERATUL

Executor, the channeling is complete! Withdraw our forces into the
Temple... And brace yourself!

Mission End

Comment: The area around the temple is completely scoured away from the mass of zerg, the Protoss are saved and so it's a perfect congratulations to the player and a suitable point to end the campaign. This is definitely a strong start to the Brood War campaigns.