January 16, 2026 — 8:17 AM
Above Laguna Province — Operation Sunfire, Phase Two
The Goliath's roar didn't carry through microphones—it ruptured them.
Reaper One-Three's feed burst into static for three seconds before re-stabilizing, revealing the monstrous figure emerging from the jungle east of Los Baños. Trees collapsed beneath its massive, root-covered feet. Its chest was a cavity of pulsating red sinew, and from its shoulders extended fleshy tendrils that whipped violently with each step. Standing nearly ten stories tall, it towered over the landscape like an ancient god reawakened.
Thomas Estaris leaned closer to the command screen inside the MOA Complex's Operations Room. The digital map showed the creature's slow advance—deliberate, unstoppable.
"We have a Goliath-class on the field," Phillip said into the command net. "All air units: initiate staggered bombardment pattern. Do not engage directly. Maintain altitude advantage. Spooky One, you're up first."
