Diviner Maros

Overview

Diviner Maros
Circle of Thorns Mystic
Zone	Sharkhead Isle
Coordinates	(-1336, 0, -758)
Level Range	25-29
Introduced By	== Level 20-24 == Crash Cage == Level 25-29 == Darrin Wade
Introduces	None
Enemy Groups	Arachnos Banished Pantheon Circle of Thorns Coralax Freakshow Legacy Chain Longbow Sky Raiders Slag Golems Warriors

Diviner Maros is a villain contact in the Port Recluse neighborhood of Sharkhead Isle at coordinates (-1336, 0, -758) Diviner Maros is a Magic origin contact. His level range is 25-29.

Introductions

Contact Introduced By

Level 20-24

• Crash Cage

Contact Introduces

• None

Information

Circle of Thorns Mystic

Diviner Maros is a figure of awe and terror, even among his fellow cultists within the Circle of Thorns. Though not the most powerful of their mystics, Maros has the ability, or curse, to see the past and future. Rumours say that his spirit was split across time after an accident during some arduous mystic research, but no one really knows the truth. Many within the Circle fear him, because his predictions come true all too often. When rumours arose that he was seeking freelancers to perform tasks there was a great outcry within the Circle, but no one dared try to stop him.

Prior to Introduction

Now is not the time, Character. I do not know you yet. If you wish this to change, there is one you must speak with: Crash Cage. Do her bidding, and I will know that our destinies are intertwined.

Initial Contact

I am glad to meet you, Character. I have been savoring the completion of this moment for a long time. I am Diviner Maros, and I am a Seer. Past and future are to me a lattice-work of interconnected events, probabilities merging one to another, forming blossoms or realities where they connect. The talent is rare even among the Circle, and to use it with skill is more rare still. For this reason I am allowed some autonomy to associate as I choose. I will choose you, now, and offer you riches in Oranbegan gold to play a part in what I have foreseen.

Greeting

• We meet again, Character.
• Tell me, how was... Oh, wait, that's right. You haven't done that yet.
• It is good to see you, as it has been in future and will be in past.

Too Busy

I do not need the power to see past and future to know that divided attention will lead only to ruin. Return to me when your other tasks are done.

No More Missions

We are done. The paths of our futures here diverge, but before you've gone, I would take one more minute of your time. I will not insult you with talk of destiny, but I will tell you that there are others who have sought to shape the future and your part in it. And you do have a part; many possible parts, in fact. You'll have to decide whether to chose a part, or have one be chosen for you. I have seen many of the roles, and many of the consequences. Choose wisely.

And we are done.

Store

• Inspirations
• Level 25 Natural/Magic Dual Origin Enhancements (200% base costs)

We have passed a threshold now. All is as I will foresee. You will need powerful Enhancements to cope with your destiny. You must remain in contact with me.

• Level 25 Magic Single Origin Enhancements (200% base costs)

Time's cascade moves us forward, but there is much that you've done in time to come that you have not accomplished yet. Speak with me of what you need, and we can proceed.

• Level 30 Magic Single Origin Enhancements (200% base costs)

Story Arc

The Cult of the Shaper

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 8 Reward Merits.

The Cult of the Shaper

You knew that working with Maros was strange, but it soon got stranger than you'd imagined. Out of nowhere, Maros began to talk about the red crystallized coral that could be found around Sharkhead Isle. Apparently, he needed a great deal of crystal for some arcane purpose, and asked you to get it for him. He talked about several strange things, including some horrible demise he saw in your future, but you couldn't get him to make more sense. When you went to harvest coral from the Slag Golems, you found that there were Freakshow in the area already doing the same thing. You prevailed over them, and delivered the crystals to Maros.

Maros next warned you that the Freakshow would want you killed, but since he knew where you could go to find some answers, sent you right there. Once there, you met the Freakshow Lieutenant named Ohmtown again, who was about to be taken out by some of his fellow Freaks. After you helped him, he told you that he'd been sent out to the Rogue Isles by Dreck, the leader of the Freakshow. Apparently there were rumors that a strange cult has sprung up among some of the Freaks on the island. You also defeated a Tank Freak called The Gatherer, who put a name on the new mania spreading among the Freaks: The Cult of the Shaper. He also spoke of a leader called Metal Shift. Maros seemed to confirm this, in his own roundabout way.

Maros continued to be his own special kind of helpful, this time directing you directly to Metal Shift, the head of the Freaks in the Cult of the Shaper. As you infiltrated the place, you happened upon Barracuda herself, Captain Mako's lieutenant, who was surrounded by Freakshow cultists. You helped her with the Freaks she was fighting. She helped you out, and told you that she was investigating the Cult of the Shaper for her own reasons. You confronted Metal Shift, and after defeating him learned that the true head of the cult was someone named Calystix the Shaper. Maros was pleased that you had learned this. He also warned you that the next time you met Barracuda, you'd have to fight her.

Maros told you that you could find more information about Calystix the Shaper in the hands of the Legacy Chain. Oddly, he also said that much of what he knew, he only knew because he remembered you telling him. Regardless, his information was correct. The Legacy Chain's records told about the re-appearance of the Cult of the Shaper throughout history, always headed by a strange priest named Calystix the Shaper. Calystix was also mentioned in the ancient records of the Mu as a priest of an unknown race that tried to destroy them with a great Leviathan. According to the ancient records, the Leviathan was sealed away, but Calystix escaped into the sea. The Legacy Chain researcher also told you that the Cult of the Shaper always attempted to sacrifice a powerful and wicked individual to re-awaken the Leviathan, and seems to have chosen you. Maros confirmed all of this based on old Oranbegan records the Circle owned.

It was time to bring an end to the Cult of the Shaper and find Calystix. As Maros babbled nearby into near incoherency, he directed you into a vicious battle. You found Ohmtown again, this time he had brought along more Freakshow from the mainland. The Cult was over by Dreck's order, and he was there to see it. Barracuda was also present, and as Maros had said, this time she wasn't interested in talking. You defeated her, and before she fell into unconsciousness she explained that she was just trying to figure out how she had been changed into her current form. Maros had warned that if she got too close to Calystix he would take control of her, though, so there was no way you were going to let her find out. Finally, there was Metal Shift. After you defeated him for the last time, his final words gave the hints you needed to find Calystix the Shaper.

Maros was able to interfere with the Leviathan's awakening through the Red Coral Crystal you had gathered for him in the beginning, and Calystix was stopped before the Leviathan could be awakened. Deep beneath Sharkhead Isle, the beast sleeps again, hopefully forever. The Cult of the Shaper is over for good, and it looks like no ancient inhuman priest to strange sea-goddesses are planning to sacrifice you any time soon. Over all, a win.

Maros told you little more about his motivations for helping you in all of this, but did deliver a strange warning. He said that it would be good for you to remember that Recluse's victory may not be your own. Whatever that meant, he refused to speak of it further.

Get Coral for Maros' plans

Briefing

The Red Coral, shards of strange crimson crystals. On this island, their bloody light is more valuable than gold and far more dangerous. They glow from the depths of the mines, and they bring bloody red visions into the minds of those that who hunt them. From his fortress in the governor's mansion, Captain Mako dreams about their ruddy light.

I have need of this red coral crystal. I need a great deal of it. And I know where to get it. Get it, bring it to me, and I will reward you well in Orenbegan gold, and information you may use to prevent your imminent horrible death.

• Get Coral for Maros' plans

The Freakshow are gathering coral from the hearts of the Slag Golems. They've found a spot where the creatures congregate down in the mines, and there seek the crystals. Take them, gather them, and return the red coral to me.

I'm sorry, did I mention your imminent death? I shouldn't have. There's still much time yet, and I don't want to distract you. Oh, and it was not a threat. You are already beyond the repercussion of any threat I could make.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I need coral. I will need lots of Coral. Otherwise, nothing will stop it.

Mission Objective(s)

All the sound seems baffled in here, save for the distant ringing of metal striking stone.

• Get Coral for Maros
  • Get Coral Shards
    
  • Get Coral Heart (Defeat the mission boss to get it)

You got the Coral Maros wanted

Enemies

Freakshow

Slag Golems

Notable NPCs

• Slag Golem (Boss)

Random Chatter

Before Combat: Freakshow 1: The others should be back by now.
Freakshow 2: Have faith. Metal Shift said we must have faith.

Combat Start: Freakshow 1: You can't be in here! We are on a sacred mission!

Coral Crystals

These strange red crystals were dug from the remains of Slag Golems.

Coral Heart

This enormous shard of red coral served as the heart of a Slag Golem you destroyed. When you hold it, you feel alien thoughts brush against your mind, calling to the sea.

Debriefing

Did you hold the Coral Heart you recovered? The feel of it, the weight of it...
Did you hear it call to you, did you hear it call to the sea? I suppose it doesn't matter. The future will proceed either way. I guess it might change whether you will understand it.

The next phase is ready. I am now supposed to wonder why the Freakshow would want the Coral. The next thing to do will be for you to find out.

Make a pre-emptive strike against the Freakshow Cultists

Briefing

I've realized that you probably don't know how this all ends yet. I'm sorry about that. I forget these things. Ever since the tower fell, I have been at all places between two points. I forget that it's all linear to most people. Effects follow causes and causes precede effects. And I still live all those moments.

I'm sorry, Character. I was rambling. The Freakshow in the cult are going to try to kill you now, but since you don't yet know where to go to take the fight to them, they have the advantage. However, we can edit out all of the tedious searching for hideouts and interrogation. I will tell you where to go. There, you will find out about the cult that's overtaken the Freakshow on the island. It will bring you a step closer to escaping the horror at the end.

• Make a pre-emptive strike against the Freakshow Cultists

They call themselves the cult of...
Oh, I'm sorry. Causes, then effects. Go to the abandoned place I've shown you. Defeat the leader, find his journals, and you'll find out.

Unnecessary Solicitation

As you worked, I have prepared. All will be ready, but for now the book and the gatherer is what you need.

Ohmtown

Mission Objective(s)

Chanting in voices at the edge of human echoes through the halls

• Strike Freakshow Cultists
  • 3 cult clues
  • Get Coral Shards

You struck back and learned about the 'Cult of the Shaper'

Enemies

Freakshow

Notable NPCs

• Ohmtown (Ally)
• Tank Swiper (Boss) (Guarding Ohmtown)
• The Gatherer (Freakshow Tank Smasher) (Boss)

Ambush! Character has freed Ohmtown! Attack!

After freeing Ohmtown you will be ambushed by three groups of Freakshow

Ohmshift & Captors dialogue

Before Combat: Freak Minion: This one is unclean!
His form is solid,
He does not flow.
Ohmtown: Look, man, we all Freaks.

Combat Start:
Tank Swiper: Remember, Metal Shift told us to get Character.
Freak Minion: Character is the one!
The form is solid,
We must make Character mutable!
Ohmtown: Character, you a sight, homes!

Upon Rescue: Ohmtown: Man, this is crazy. You ready to do this again, Character?

Coral Crystals

These strange red crystals were dug from the remains of Slag Golems.

The Cultists

After you rescued him from the Freakshow cultists, Ohmtown told you what he'd learned:

'Yo money, whassup? You know it, I been on a mission from my main man, Drek. He asks me to check out what's goin' down on Sharkhead Isle, right? So I get jumped by these Freaks who's talkin' all crazy, an I mean crazier than normal, know what I'm sayin'? You got me out of that, so we cool.
So I kept up investigatin', and I found out that these crazy freaks, they a cult now. They still kinda small, but a lot of freaks are gettin' sucked in. If it's this bad, I'm gonna have to get some face-breakahs out here to handle it.'

The Gatherer's Babblings

The mad Tank Freak called The Gatherer wouldn't stop talking, even after he was defeated:

'The forms of old, the ancient ratios, they will come soon. All is ratio, there is no shape. We will become a blend, we shall change to new forms, Metal Shift has told us. He is the disciple. Metal Shift is the head on the body ever-changing, ever-growing. There will be no end, no future, all will be as one! We are the cult of the Shaper! We are without form! We are immortality!'

Orders from on high

The Gatherer's half-mad ravings are scrawled over many pages of notes, but among them you find a recent message sent to him from someone called 'Metal Shift':

'Our enemies on the mainland, the poor deluded fools who still follow Dreck and Bile and Clamor and even Upstart, they have found a way to tap our communication. We cannot let them know of the Holy One's plan. And there has been a change to that plan. The Holy One tells me that there is one in particular we must find. A Villain, but one is being watched even now by Lord Recluse and his spies. This may have been the same interloper who freed the Heretic Ohmtown. The Holy One has given us a description of the Heretic. Destroy the unclean one without delay. Fates have bounds us together, and the Holy One has foreseen this as well.'

You know before you even start reading the description that it matches you perfectly.

Debriefing

I can now tell you Metal Shift's name. You've learned it. You've learned that they will hunt you now. You've learned that they are fanatics. You've learned that they are outcast even from the Freakshow. And you've learned that they are desperate to fulfill their master's wishes. We learn nothing, but through revelation.

Take the fight to 'Metal Shift'

Briefing

The Red Coral, shards of strange crimson crystals. On this island, their bloody light is more valuable than gold and far more dangerous. They glow from the depths of the mines, they glow from the chests of...

No, wait, that isn't right. We've already done that by this point. I have the coral I need. So this isn't now, this is then. No, this is the now. Yes, I now know when I am.

You've just learned about 'Metal Shift', the one who sends his minions to kill you. I can tell you where he is. I can tell you what to look for. And I can tell you that this will not be the end.

• Take the fight to 'Metal Shift'

Metal Shift is the leader, from him you will learn the name of their Holy One. From that you will learn the Holy One's true name and true nature. Then, you will be close. Close to either horrific dissolution, or the next point, the second point I have waited for for so long.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Metal Shift is the one you seek. He will not be an end to it, but he will lead you to the end.

Barracuda

Mission Objective(s)

Looks like the Freaks have been here long enough to modify it some

• Defeat Metal Shift
  • Defeat Metal Shift

You learned the name of the Cult of the Shaper's leader: Calystix

Enemies

Freakshow

Character! The unclean one! Attack!

Notable NPCs

• Metal Shift (Elite Boss)
• Tank Swiper (Boss) (Guarding Barracuda)
• Barracuda (Elite Boss, Ally)

Ambush!

After accepting the mission you will be ambushed by one single group of Freakshow

Ambush! Character has joined forces with Barracuda!

After freeing Barracuda you will be ambushed by two groups of Freakshow

Barracuda & captors dialogue

Before Combat:

Freakshow Minion: Why are you not one of us?

We will take you to the Holy one. He shall convince you.

Barracuda: I'll rip you fools apart.

Combat Start:

Freakshow Minion: Character! The unclean one! Attack!

Barracuda: You want first shot at them, Character? Go for it.

After Rescuing:

Barracuda: I've heard of you, Character. Care to help me take down these Freak Cultists?

Mission Exit:

Barracuda: Thanks for the hand. I'll make sure it gets back to Mako.'

Metal Shift's Master

You extracted some information from the Freakshow leader called Metal Shift after you defeated him:

'This isn't a victory, heretic! The Holy One, the Shaper Lord, he sees all. He has been, and is to come. He tells us to change ourselves, and we change. He tells us to gather Coral, and we gather it. Calystix the Shaper will re-create us all, and we shall change anew, forever! But you! You will fall into the maw of the sleeper below, and be consumed for all time!'

Amid all the babbling, the name 'Calystix the Shaper' stands out. It might be worth investigating.

The Sea Huntress

Barracuda is the lieutenant of Cap'n Mako, who is one of Lord Recluse's inner circle. You're a little surprised to meet her, but she doesn't seem hostile at the moment. She even told you some of what she was doing here.

'I'm not here to fight you. I think we're both looking for some information. I heard that the Freakshow have been gathering Coral Shards. Cap'n Mako demands first bid on all Coral Shards recovered on Sharkhead Isle, so I thought I'd investigate. Turns out most Freaks don't know anything about it, but this group, they're swimming in them. What I couldn't figure out was why weren't they selling them?

So I kept digging and I heard about this weird cult. Something tells me that there's more to this than the normal weirdness the Freakshow get into. Look, I have a feeling that this is going to be kind of personal for me, so do yourself a favor, and don't get in my way. There are some things about this cult I need to know, and so long as you don't interfere, we'll be okay.'

Debriefing

Calystix the Shaper. How long have I waited to hear you speak that name? It all collapses now. It all converges to the second point. From a blossom of futures into the arrow of time. It's almost over.

So close to the end, I find I feel sad, in a way. I was there, I was part of it all when we first tried to build a tower to the heavens. When it happens again, what will become of me afterwards? Free, either way, I suppose. But that doesn't matter to you. You have your own horrific demise to avert.

Incidentally, how did you like meeting Barracuda? It's unfortunate that you'll have to fight her next time you meet.

Force information on Calystix from the Legacy Chain

Briefing

You know the name 'Calystix', but you know nothing more. I will correct that. The Legacy Chain's mystics have a great deal of information. Force one of their researchers to reveal all that they know about this Calystix to you. Once you are armed with understanding, we will proceed.

• Force information on Calystix from the Legacy Chain

The funny thing is, most of what I know about Calystix I remember from what you're about to tell me.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Calystix the what? What are you talking about, Character?

Wait a moment...
Right, I remember now. You haven't told me about this yet. You need to get the information from the Legacy Chain so you can tell me, so I can tell you earlier.

As long as that's all clear.

Researcher Haversham

Mission Objective(s)

Your trained eye can see the details that mark this innocuous office as different. A sigil here, a few strange carvings there. Powerful protective magics, but from your presence, obviously not powerful enough.

• Force info from Legacy Chain
  • Kidnap researcher
  • Take Haversham to Tomes

You got the information you needed from the Legacy Chain.

Enemies

Legacy Chain

Bug! For some reason, Legacy Chain will be antagonistic to each other throughout the mission.

Notable NPCs

• Tellus Legacy of Earth (Boss) (Protecting Haversham)
• Researcher Haversham (NPC Hostage)

Ambush! We must rescue Mr. Haversham from Character!

After kidnapping the researcher you will be ambushed by three groups of Legacy Chain mystics

Of Calystix and Sacrifice

In a shaking voice, the researcher reads from an ancient tome:

'Calystix the Shaper, also called Calystix the Zealot. The first records of a priest called Calystix date from ancient Rome, where a Legion discovered an ancient temple to a Cult of the Shaper. This cult was led by a high priest called Calystix, who ordered the townspeople to slay the Legion. The soldiers were nearly overcome, but they won and put the temple and the town to the torch for their abhorrent practices. Later records of a Cult of the Shaper led by Calystix re-occur in the middle ages, and again during the Enlightenment.The last known occurrence of the Cult was in a small Massachusetts fishing village in the 1920s, though it's unknown if it was lead by a priest called Calystix, as the cult was destroyed by the American Navy for crimes of piracy and cannibalism.

Perhaps most disturbing is that recently discovered records of the ancient civilization of the Mu also speak of a 'Calystix the Shaper'. These records from 14,000 years ago tell of another race who lived on the island of Mu before it was raised from the sea, and talk of a priest of these sea-people called Calystix, who sought to unleash a great leviathan to devour the Mu. The legends say that the leviathan was entombed beneath the Island by the Mu Goddess Hequat, but that Calystix escaped into the sea.'

It should be noted that in each attempt, it was said that the cult sought to sacrifice the life of a particularly wicked and important individual to show their god or goddess that humans deserved to be destroyed. We of the Legacy Chain know that this new Cult of the Shaper has been watching you. Perhaps they've already chosen their sacrifice?'

Legacy Chain dialogue

Beginning of Mission:

Legacy Chain: Hmm...

Researcher Haversham: I believe it connects! It could explain the Freakshow's recent activity!

Legacy Chain: It is!

Legacy Chain: Protect Haversham!

After Capturing Haversham:

Researcher Haversham: You fiend! I shan't help you get the information you need!

After leading Haversham to objective:

Researcher Haversham: I'll tell you what we know of Calystix the Shaper.

Researcher Haversham: Just hurt no one else.

Haversham Lost:

Researcher Haversham: Character seems distracted. Now's my chance to escape!

Haversham Refound:

Researcher Haversham: No! Rally, my fellows! Don't let Character win!

Debriefing

Old records owned by the Circle corroborate much of what you've told me. I'd go and read them, but knowing that you'd tell this to me, I already have. This Calystix must be attempting to restart his cult. But this time, he may be able to complete his aim. Particularly if he sacrifices you. And yes, that is one of the horrible fates I mentioned. And though it's not the only one, it would probably be a good idea for you to stop this from happening. For both of our sakes.

Find the location of Calystix

Briefing

We're almost done. All the branches are narrowing. Events have fewer nodes to other events. We're approaching the second rise of the tower, the second attempt. We're close now to determining which, if any, horrific fate will befall you. You still have a chance. But you still have to mold the reality that-could-be from the greater skein of what-can-be. All that could lead to the second singularity collapses in on itself.

I apologize, I'm rambling again, and there's not much time. Which is funny, from my point of view.

I'm sorry, I must concentrate. You must find Calystix. Metal Shift has returned. Ohmtown has brought reinforcements. And Barracuda seeks the secret of her own history. Your part is to find Metal Shift once more. Find him, learn from him where his Holy One has gone. Then we'll see which horrid fate will be yours.

• Find the location of Calystix

You're going to have a lot to do. Ohmtown needs to take control of his Freaks. I'd suggest getting him out of trouble. That should curtail growth of the Cult and curtail retaliation against you.

Barracuda is desperate for information, but should she come too close to Calystix, he would control her with ease. She must be stopped before she can get any further towards the truth of her own creation.

And Metal Shift needs to be disposed of. His last boasts will tell you where to find his master.

And that will nearly be the end.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Same as Mission Acceptance.

Barracuda

The hybrid cyborg, Metal Shift

Mission Objective(s)

One way or another, the mad Cult of the Shaper will meet their end today

• Destroy Shaper Cult
  • Defeat Barracuda
  • Defeat Metal Shift

You have broken the back of the Shaper Cult

Enemies

Freakshow

Character has been delivered to our hands! We are doubly blessed!

Arachnos

Notable NPCs

• Tank Swiper (Boss) (Guarding Ohmtown)
• Ohmtown (Pet, Ally)
• Barracuda (Archvillain)
• Metal Shift (Elite Boss)

Ambush! Character has joined forces with Ohmtown! ATTACK!

After freeing Ohmtown you will be ambushed by two groups of Freakshow

Ambush! Character must be weakened from fighting Barracuda. ATTACK!

After defeating Barracuda you will be ambushed by two groups of Freakshow

Ambush! Metal Shift has fallen! ATTACK!

After defeating Metal Shift you will be ambushed by two groups of Freakshow

Metal Shift's Lament

Metal Shift continued to ramble even after you defeated him:

'I've failed you, Holy One. I did the best I could. I only hope that you'll remember me as you devour the sacrifice and the world.'

As his power faded, you could make out a few important points in his rambling. In particular, you think you may be able to figure out where Calystix is from certain details.

What am I supposed to be now?

Before Arachnos's medical system recalled her to safety, Barracuda stuttered a few angry words at you:

'All you had to do was not interfere. I just want to know what happened to me. What made me like this. And I remembered that name: 'Calystix'. I have to know. I was just a diver. I just wanted to be in the ocean. I never wanted to be like this. I never wanted to be a monster like...
Like...
Like all of you!

I used to be normal. What am I supposed to be now?'

Cult's over, yo

Metal Shift continued to ramble even after you defeated him:

After you got him out of a jam, Ohmtown told you what the situation was with the Cult of the Shaper and the Freakshow:

'Thanks for the hand, man. Those cult suckas cut me off from my crew. Who have all been told you a friend in here, so we cool. Meantime, I tol' Drek what's up, and he got it taken care of. Cult's over, yo. Nothin' left but clean up the Freaks who won't give it up.'

Barracuda dialogue

Before Combat:

I thought I warned you not to interfere with me, Character.

Combat:

I smell your blood in the water.

You're really making yourself a problem.

I won't hold back any longer!

Why are you doing this? I have to know what they did to me!

Defeated:

Why didn't...

you just...

let me...

find the truth...

Metal Shift dialogue

Before Combat:

All is not yet lost!

Fate has delivered Character into our grasp!

Combat Start:

I will break your heretical limbs and bring just enough back to the shaper alive to make the sacrifice!

Fall to your destiny!

I am anointed by the Holy One. You cannot truly harm me!

This battle hasn't even begun!

Defeated:

Calystix...

I've failed you...

Defeats Player:

The Shaper will have his Sacrifice!

Soon you shall fulfill your destiny as our sacrifice.

Debriefing

All things are converging and everything falls into place. If what you are about to tell me is correct, you were able to find where Calystix has gone. The Shaper will try to unleash the Leviathan. He wants to send it to consume you so that the sacrifice of your wicked life will allow him to command it. And if you die now, it will all fall apart. A horrible fate awaits you. Now it is time to confront it.

Defeat Calystix the Shaper

Briefing

I've done everything I can to spare you the fate Calystix has planned, but you must take the final step. I will tell you that what you think may be Calystix's location is correct. The Shaper has retreated under the guard of his last few Freaks, and will soon attempt to rouse the Leviathan. Now is the time. Gather your forces for the battle ahead will be difficult, but you must prevail. Calystix the Shaper must be destroyed.

• Defeat Calystix the Shaper

I can already feel the Leviathan stirring, its hunger calling out along the mystic plane. If only I had enough of the Red Coral, I could interfere from here and give you time to stop it.

Wait a moment...

It's fortunate that I had you gather red Coral Crystal for me. I can use that to interfere with the Shaper's ceremony and give you time to stop it. You must defeat Calystix himself before he can awaken the creature. That will end this for the moment, and move you towards the point I've been waiting for.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Defeat Calystix the Shaper.

Calystix the Shaper

Mission Objective(s)

Something feels terribly wrong. It's too warm and humid, and the breeze changes in a slow rythm, like the fetid breath of some massive sleeping thing.

• Stop Calystix
  • Defeat Calystix

You have defeated the Shaper and prevented the Leviathan's resurrection.

Enemies

Freakshow

Coralax

Notable NPCs

• Calystix the Shaper (Archvillain)

Random Chatter

Before combat:

Freakshow 1: You know,

Freakshow 2: What?

Freakshow 1: this whole 'Cult of the Shaper' thing was fun at first,

Freakshow 2: True.

Freakshow 1: but it's starting to go a little too far.

Freakshow 2: Dude, I was so thinking the exact same thing. Maybe we should go back after this is over?

Combat start:

Freakshow 1: Ah, man! Why do we keep falling into these patterns of self-destructive behavior?

Calystix dialogue

Before combat:

Soon, my faithful, all that was human will be wiped away.

Combat start:

You have been delivered to us, Character. My goddess Merulena will rejoice when her Leviathan lives again.

First blood: Leviathan! Taste of Character. Wicked blood and awaken!

75% Health: Do you think yourself powerful? You are a worm before us!

50% Health: Now let me show you something!

25% Health: What is this? I will not falter!

Upon defeat:

How...

can...

this...

be..?

Player defeated:

Leviathan! Taste of the blood of human depravity!

Not Human

After defeating Calystix the Shaper, you had a few moments to look at the body. Whatever he was, he was clearly not a human being. Strange masses of polyps lost cohesion to fan out, and small cilia still beat the air. Calystix's body seemed to be unfolding into a miniature coral reef before your eyes. To be honest, you weren't even sure if it was the end of him, but the ceremony was over and your job was done.

Debriefing

The Shaper falls, and the way is clear. The Freaks will return to their normal ways, and Calystix will not summon the Leviathan this time.

You have averted one of the fates that could overcome you, but it is not the only one that awaits you. There's little more I can tell you without making events fly too far off course. You need to not know certain things, but I will tell you this: When the time comes, when you must face the goddess in your preparations to make Recluse's Victory become true, you must remember that Recluse's Victory may not be your own.

Now I've talked too much of fates and endings. I've said too much of what hasn't occurred and what may never happen. Let us be done with talk of destiny, and prophecy, and the rest.

At least, for a while.

Room where you encounter Calystix the Shaper.

Missions

Speak with Tarixus

Speak with Tarixus

Briefing

It seems so strange to me now, but I understand the perceived need that everything must have a beginning. So here and now will be the start of this, though this has all happened for a very long time.

Upon this Island is a wrathful spirit called Tarixus. Perhaps you've worked with him already, perhaps not. Speak with this Tarixus, present him with the letter I gave you, and tell him that you and I are working together. Ask him for a task, and he will ask you to battle my own kind. Do so, and you can learn much.

Tarixus knows me. Once all is clear, he won't have interfered.

• Speak with Tarixus

The letter I gave you for Tarixus, let me give it to you now. Now, go to Tarixus. Do the task he asks of you. If you want to understand, pay attention. All of the rest will happen when it does.

Unnecessary Solicitation

No. You have to move speaking with Tarixus from your future to your past. The movement of events from future to past is the only option you have. I miss that, sometimes.

Mission Objective(s)

• Speak with Tarixus

Archmage Tarixus

Briefing

And what do you bring to Tarixus, Character? A letter? From a member of the Circle of Thorns. My arcane senses detect no threat. Hold it for me, that I may see it.
Maros! I know that name. So, you are working with him. That should prove most interesting. No doubt he sends you to me to ensure that I will not act against him. Then, you may return this answer:
I will agree not to interfere with Maros's plans, as long as he does a task for me. Several of his fellows from the Circle of Thorns have gathered in an old mine nearby. No doubt they plan against me. I would see them removed. No, destroyed. Tell that to Maros, tell him that is the price to keep our affairs separate.

Defeat Circle in cavern

Unnecessary Solicitation

I'm fairly certain I told you to do as Tarixus asked. I cannot congratulate you on doing it until it's done. Remember, it's all liner for you. Causes percede conclusions.

Ohmtown

Mission Objective(s)

The depths of this abandoned mausoleum echo with sounds of scrapping metal and cruel laughter

• Defeat Circle in cavern

You destroyed the Circle in the caverns.

Even though it isn't a stated mission objective, this mission cannot be completed until all enemies have been defeated.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Ohmtown (Freakshow Juicer) (NPC Ally, Pet-class)
• Agony Mage (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage) (Boss) (guarding Ohmtown)
• Relithraxus the Agonizer (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage) (Boss)

Ambush! After freeing Ohmtown, there will be three ambushes of Circle of Thorns.
"Character has the captive! ATTACK!"

Ohmtown's mission

After you rescued the Freakshow Juicer called Ohmtown from the Circle of Thorns, he told you:

'Wassup. I'm Ohmtown, Freak Juicer representin' Talos Island out in Paragon. My main man Drek, he sent me out here to find out what's going down here in Sharkhead. Bunch of our boys is gettin' all kinda crazy ideas. Talking 'bout cults and corals and golems and stuff. I just got off the boat, an' was on my way to talk to this Doc Buzzsaw chick, when these Circle psychos jumped me. Started askin' what I knew, which was nothin. 'Least, nothin' yet.'

Relithraxus the Agonizer dialogue

Before combat: needs data
Combat start: "Die in agony!"

Ohmtown dialogue

Before combat:
Ohmtown: Look, money, I'm just here on a mission for my man Drek. I ain't got no problem with you. Circle enemy: You're quite correct. You 'ain't got no problem' with us.' Circle enemy: Unfortunately, that's a double negative,
Circle enemy: meaning that you do indeed have a problem.
Ohmtown: What is this, grammar school?
Combat start:
Circle enemy: Oh, spare me. Kill them all.
Ohmtown: Oh, Character! How 'about some help with these wack cult-types.
Upon rescue:

A'ight. 'Sup, Character. You helped me, so I'll help you. We good?

Good.

If lost: needs data
If refound: needs data

Debriefing

And it begins. For you, this may seem like a starting point, but there is so much that has gone on before. So much that has happened, that could have happened. It all narrows now, as it draws to its point. So small a thing, a beginning. So small a thing, an end. But there is much that will begin before the end. So much still to begin.

Steal an artifact from cultists

Briefing

There is a matter I will need to have had your assistance with. It's a small thing, a minor theft of a precious artifact from the insane cultists of mad gods, who now defend this treasure with a religious fervor. Stealing it and delivering it into my hands will set up a chain of events whose final effects will be beyond your sight, but will lead to the eventual destruction of those cultists.

So are you interested in a little theft?

• Steal an artifact from cultists.

I knew you would agree. The item in question is called 'The Scroll of Tielekku'. It's a valuable artifact of a lost goddess. The enemies of that goddess now plan to use it to trap her. I want it so that I can surreptitiously place it in the estate of a late member of the old Midnight Squad.

But that doesn't matter, really. I don't care if you sneak through without alerting any of their dead souls. I don't care if you wipe out every last cultist and zombie in the place. All I want is the scroll. The details are yours to determine.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I don't care if you sneak through without alerting any of their dead souls. I don't care if you wipe out every last cultist and zombie in the place. All I want is the scroll. The details are yours to determine.

Mission Objective(s)

Maros is a strange one, but his information about the location of this "Scroll of Tielekku" was accurate

• Steal Scroll of Tielekku
  • Steal the scroll

You stole the scroll of Tielekku

Enemies

Banished Pantheon

Notable NPCs

• None

The Scroll of Tielekku

This ancient papyrus scroll is simply breathtaking. The central picture shows a powerful woman seated on a throne of gold, surrounded by faded pictograms. It would take an expert in esoteric lost languages to decipher these markings.

Debriefing

I must commend you, the Scroll is in perfect condition. I'll handle dropping clues to its new location through other agents, I don't want to try your patience.

It's curious that the Cult of the Banished Pantheon is not more common in the isles. I think it's jealousy, really. Recluse probably wants no one worshiping anything other than himself.

Steal Citadel's plans

Briefing

A great event is coming into being, Character, but it needs a guiding hand. Are you aware of the android hero who styles himself Citadel? He is a creation unrivaled in this time. But in a short while, he will not be. His technology is already in evil hands: those of the Sky Raiders. But their use of it is disappointing at best. You must steal the plans for his technology from a Sky Raider base, then take it to those who can profit most from it. The Council. They will pay us well, and put into motion events that will have consequences far beyond our own present.

Mission Acceptance

The lives this scheme will touch and change number in the thousands, Character. First you will have stolen the plans, but then you will discover that Longbow has learned of this, and seek to ambush you. They will have taken the Council base by the time you get there, but I trust you'll be able to handle yourself once you arrive.

Steal Citadel's plans

Unnecessary Solicitation

The plans are needed before the next part of my plan can come to pass.

Mission Objective(s)

You have to wonder how the Sky Raiders got their hands on tech like Citadel's.

• Steal Citadel's plans

You stole the plans for Citadel's technology!

Enemies

Sky Raiders

Notable NPCs

• None

Ambush!

After exiting the mission you will be ambushed by one single squad of Longbow soldiers

Plans for Citadel

You recovered these plans from a secret Longbow base. They show how to replicate the technology of Paragon City's android hero, Citadel

Take plans to Council

Unnecessary Solicitation

We are nearing the point at which the Council must have used those plans, Alex Isaacs! You must hurry!

Mission Objective(s)

It seems Longbow has learned of your theft. They have preceded you here!

• Take plans to Council
  • 5 Longbow agents to defeat

You defeated the Longbow agents and passed the plans along to the Council. What will happen now, only Maros can say.

Enemies

Longbow

Notable NPCs

• Longbow Officer(Boss) (Guarding Archon Stratton)
• Archon Stratton (Ally, Pet-class)
• Agent Jensen (Longbow Longbow Warden (2))
• Agent Matthews (Longbow Longbow Warden (4))
• Agent Hollis (Longbow Longbow Officer)
• Agent O'Bannon (Longbow Longbow Warden (12))
• Agent Calloway (Longbow Longbow Warden (10))

Ambush!

After freeing Archon Stratton you will be ambushed by a single squad of Longbow soldiers

Longbow dialogue

Agent Matthews

Before Combat:

Character should be here any moment, stay on guard.

Combat Start:

Alright team, it's go time.

---

Agent O'Bannon

Before Combat:

...and so we kick in the door and catch this Freak completely by surprise. I mean, his legs were in pieces on a table infront of him, mid-maintenance. Wait, did you hear something?

Combat Start:

Whoa! It's Character! Shoot first, ask questions later.

---

Agent Hollis

Before Combat:

Hey, are you going to the officer's ball this weekend?

Combat Start:

This is what we get paid for.

---

Agent Calloway

Before Combat:

Forward elements report Character is here.

Combat Start:

C'mon Character , I'm the one who's gonna take you down!

---

Agent Jenson

Before Combat:

Stay frosty, we're up against Character.

Combat Start:

All teams, we've spotted Character.

---

The Rescue of Archon Stratton

Before Combat:

Longbow: Just answer the question. Has Character been here or not?

Archon Stratton: You pathetic weaklings can't beat the mighty Council!

Combat Start:

Longbow: So, Character, you finally arrive!

Archon Stratton: Character! Help me!

Upon Rescue:

Archon Stratton: I can help you take care of these losers.

Debriefing

The Council has the plans. Excellent. Soon, their work will begin. Soon, heroes will be dispatched by the android Citadel. Soon, one of those heroes will arrive at his destiny. And you, Character, have brought me closer to mine.

Steal a book from the Legacy Chain

Briefing

I need your assistance to precipitate the horrible downfall of several power-hungry young men, and begin a chain of events that could place the fate of the world in question. Like so many of these things, it will begin with a theft of knowledge and end in destruction and an apparent betrayal, all orchestrated by your actions to implement this purpose. But to make this happen, I need you to get events started by stealing a certain tome from the Legacy Chain and then planting it at a deal between the Warriors and my own people that you will crash.

• Steal a book from the Legacy Chain

As I mentioned, the theft of this book will only be the first part. Once that's done, I'll need you to plant the book. The Warriors are currently trying to make a deal with my own people, the Circle of Thorns. After you silence all the witnesses to make it look as if the deal went astray, you'll place the book where the Warriors are sure to find it when their reinforcements arrive to investigate.

But first, the Legacy Chain. Get the book and cripple their ability to respond by taking out the man called Abernathy.

Get book from Legacy

Unnecessary Solicitation

First, the Legacy Chain. Get the book and cripple their ability to respond by taking out the man called Abernathy.

Mission Objective(s)

Maros didn't just tell you where to go, he was able to describe this place in detail. That's really kind of scary, now that you think about it.

• Get book from Legacy
  • Find Magic Tome
  • Defeat Abernathy

You got the book. Now, to place it

Enemies

Legacy Chain

Notable NPCs

• Abernathy (Tellus of Earth)

Ready yourselves! This Character is well known for viciousness!

Book of Ancient Magic

This handwritten book contains descriptions, chants, and eldritch formulae for a number of dark magic rituals. It has no listed author, but is dated 1592. An aura of malevolence clings to each page.

Beat all Circle & Warriors at Deal

Unnecessary Solicitation

Now to plant the book. Silence the witnesses and place the book among the trinkets the Circle was planning to give the Warriors.

Mission Objective(s)

Now that you have the book, all you need to do is make sure the Warriors find it

• Beat all Circle & Warriors at Deal
  • Place book in crate

You placed the book and eliminated the witnesses.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Warriors

Notable NPCs

• Agony Mage (Boss)

Debriefing

The Warriors will unleash a creature from the darkest abyss when they attempt the rituals in that tome. It should prove interesting. More importantly, it will keep my fellows within the Circle distracted so that they will not be able to move against me.

Steal the devices from Longbow

Briefing

There is one in Paragon City who believes his destiny is clear. He could well be correct, if we do not move to intervene. The man's name is Dr. Theron. He is a brilliant man, a man of science. We must turn science against him, forcing him to move closer to nature. Currently, some of Theron's more remarkable devices are in the hands of Longbow. As long as they control these weapons, they will use them for the cause of good. We must turn the devices to evil to set Theron on his true path.

• Steal the devices from Longbow

A submarine does not know why it waits for you now in Port Oakes. They will completely forget even the location of the undersea Longbow base they will take you to.

Alas, poor Theron. Even now, Dr. Theron is a confused soul, who believes that by devising ultimate weapons, he can undo the grievous harms of the world and make war unthinkable. In this, he is a fool, and not the first of that kind. The loss to come, and the horrors his creations will yield, shall shatter him utterly.

Unnecessary Solicitation

The breaking point approaches. We must move before the time is past!

Mission Objective(s)

The sub's crew act like they don't even know you're there. They moved like puppets, but they did bring you to this hidden undersea base

• Steal Theron's devices
  • 3 items to steal

You've stolen the equipment designed by Dr. Theron

Enemies

Longbow

Notable NPCs

• None

Ambush! We've got an intruder!

After finding Theron's explosives you will be ambushed by two squads of Longbow soldiers

Ambush! We've got to protect the equipment!

After finding Theron's armor you will be ambushed by two squads of Longbow soldiers

Ambush! Don't let Character get away!

After finding Theron's weapons you will be ambushed by two squads of Longbow soldiers

Theron's explosives

Your seasoned eye can tell that these explosives would pack quite a punch.

Theron's armor

This stolen armor looks like it could stop even the most advanced weaponry.

Theron's weapons

These weapons you stole from a Longbow base were clearly designed by a brilliant mind.

Debriefing

Well done. No, I am afraid you cannot keep the items, for it did not happen, and therefore it will not. I will get them to the Sky Raiders. In a short time they will use these devices to bring ruin to a small city in West Libertalia. The loss of life will be truly staggering. Theron, I am afraid, will never recover. He will turn away from the world of technology forever, and become a thing quite unlike himself. We have done well. And so we shall again.