Cobra Commander appears in a video recorded at an undisclosed location. He is wearing his deep blue hood and paramilitary uniform, and seems no worse for the wear following his extended absence. As the message begins, he leans forward over his broad desk and says in his distinctive hissing, sinister voice, “Greetings. As many of you have no doubt heard, I have returned.
“I was not idle during my prolonged absence. I have been watching, and those that remained loyal to me and kept Cobra running will be rewarded. All internal strife and complaints over the Baroness’s leadership are to cease immediately. Although her methods may differ from mine, she stepped into the vacuum of command and performed admirably. As such, she will remain in control of Cobra’s day-to-day operations.
“All efforts of the Red Right Hand are to stop at once. Xamot, you are to launch a full investigation into their activities, and I want their leaders found, interrogated, and either executed or turned over to Dr. Mindbender for experimentation. The assassination of officers by the rank-and-file in this organization will never be tolerated. Those who come forward with information on the Red Right Hand quickly may be spared death.
“Artemis, the Baroness, and Storm Shadow are to be commended for their efforts in assisting my safe return. Now that I am back, expect further orders concerning upcoming changes and missions. In the meantime, carry on as you have, building strength for our next strike against the world. Cobra!” Fist in the air, Cobra Commander ends the recording.