Mender Ramiel: Difference between revisions

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{{Infobox Contact
{{Infobox Contact
|name=Mender Ramiel
|name=Mender Ramiel
|image=Mender ramiel.png
|image=Mender Ramiel.jpg
|img_capt=Incarnate Lore Master
|img_capt=Incarnate Lore Master
|zone=[[Ouroboros]]
|zone=[[Ouroboros]]
|x=?|y=?|z=?
|x=452|y=665|z=-883
|levels=50
|levels=50
|introed=None, Mender Ramiel is an [[Unlockable Contacts|Unlockable Contact]]
|introed=None, Mender Ramiel is an [[Unlockable Contacts|Unlockable Contact]]
|intros=None
|intros=None
|enemies={{Enemy Arachnos}}
|enemies={{Enemy Arachnos}}{{Enemy Cimeroran Traitors}}{{Enemy Council}}{{Enemy Crey}}{{Enemy Rikti}}{{Enemy Time Echoes}}
{{Enemy Cimeroran Traitors}}
{{Enemy Council}}
{{Enemy Crey}}
{{Enemy Rikti}}
{{Enemy Time Echoes}}
|badges=[[File:Badge Accolade AlphaSlot.png|50px]] [[Alpha Unlocked]]
|badges=[[File:Badge Accolade AlphaSlot.png|50px]] [[Alpha Unlocked]]
}}
}}
{{Contact Overview|Name=Mender Ramiel|City=HV|Zone=Ouroboros|x=?|y=?|z=?|Pronoun=his|HoodYN=N|Hood=|OriginYN=N|Origin=|LevelYN=Y|Level=50}}
{{Contact Overview|Name=Mender Ramiel|City=HV|Zone=Ouroboros|x=452|y=665|z=-883|Pronoun=his|HoodYN=N|Hood=|OriginYN=N|Origin=|LevelYN=Y|Level=50}} Completing his arc is one way to unlock your [[Alpha Slot]]
 
'''Mender Ramiel''' is the main character in the [[Incarnate System]]'s [http://goingrogue.na.cityofheroes.com/en/game-info/incarnates/lore.html Lore] page, where he has a conversation with [[Mender Silos]].


__toc__
__toc__


== Background ==
== Background ==
=== Conversation ===
=== Description ===
Mender Ramiel appeared in a flash, kneeling on the Ouroboros platform. His armor was damaged and his clothing torn. Smoke and chill permeated the air. He was weak, but determined. He looked up and saw [[Mender Lazarus]] peering at him.
* Not much is known regarding Mender Ramiel, only that he is one of the few menders who has intimate knowledge regarding Incarnates and their abilities.
 
"So you've returned," said Mender Lazarus.
 
"This is my first time this far back, fool," spat Mender Ramiel. "You always are mixing your continuities."
 
Ramiel stood up, and strode confidently into the Citadel of Ice and Flame. [[Mender Tesseract]] and [[Twilight's Son]] acknowledged his presence, but knew better than to begin a conversation. Ramiel walked out to the back balcony and stood before the leader of Ouroboros, [[Mender Silos]].
 
Silos looked him up and down. "Ramiel, I never expected to see you this far back. Are we not beyond your tether?"
 
"That is one implication, yes," said Ramiel.
 
"What news do you bring us? Has the [[Coming Storm|Storm]] been averted?" asked Silos. His voice was tinged with hopeful anticipation.
 
"Not entirely, but there has been some . . . ." Ramiel was choosing his words carefully. "Your efforts here in the early 21st century are having an effect."
 
"To what end?"
 
"The [[Well of the Furies|Well of Furies]]--"


"Is a myth," interrupted Silos.
* Mender Ramiel comes from a far future version of Ouroboros. In that future, he has seen the efforts of Mender Silos here in this time period have some real effect, bringing forth the attention of the power behind the Incarnates, the Well of the Furies. He has come from the far future to herald this event, and to possibly increase its impact in the future.  


"No, it's real. I've seen its effects myself," corrected Ramiel.
=== History ===
 
Mender Ramiel is the main character in the story [[Message from Mender Ramiel]], where he travels from the future to speak with [[Mender Silos]].
"Continue."
 
"I was sent here as a harbinger. This is the exact time period when it all changes. I believe that the super-powered beings you have traipsing through time are having a profound effect."
 
"What kind of effect? Good, or bad?"
 
"Both," Ramiel stated flatly.
 
"I see," said Silos.
 
"As you know, the first modern super-powered beings were [[Statesman]] and [[Lord Recluse]]. After drinking from the Well, which they tapped into via the [[Fountain of Zeus]], they became [[Incarnate]]s of Zeus and Tartarus. These Incarnates were the two most powerful people on the planet up until now."
 
"Several things are incorrect about that statement, but go on," said Silos.
 
Ramiel glared. He had important information for Mender Silos, but like always, Silos thought he knew more than everyone.
 
"As I was saying, the Well of Furies seems to have awakened once more. It will seek out the most powerful individuals and grant them new powers and new abilities," Ramiel declared.
 
"The Well has become sentient?" asked Silos.
 
"More like--directed," replied Ramiel.
 
"What are the implications?" asked Silos.
 
"Statesman and Lord Recluse will not be the only ones possessing Incarnate abilities. The most powerful individuals from this point forward will struggle to unlock their inner Incarnate and discover new powers. These new Incarnates have affected the Storm, but we of Ouroboros may have created a different threat through our efforts."
 
"You can't mean [[Arachnos]]?" asked Mender Silos. Apparently, this was a concern of his that had leapt to mind immediately.
 
"No," said Ramiel. "Something you will find difficult to foresee in this timeline, because it is not from this timeline," Ramiel smugly declared.
 
Mender Silos thought for literally a second. It was a hundred times longer than he needed.
 
"So the prophecy is coming to pass?" asked Silos.
 
"If that is how you would interpret the prophecy, then yes."
 
"''As the tempest dies, so the lightning shatters the mirror, and as the storm skies clear, the reflective shards cut and bleed those who handle them''," intoned Silos.
 
"Yes, I know the prophecy. You made us memorize it, remember?" gritted Ramiel.
 
"Yet here we are. Alternate dimensions will begin wreaking havoc on this one, spoiling any victory we could ask for over the Coming Storm."
 
"I hope you have a plan, Silos," said Ramiel.
 
"Always. We can recruit allies within these parallel worlds, and perhaps bolster our own numbers with alternate versions of super-powered beings, or even alternate Ouroboroses."
 
"Do not fool yourself into thinking that alternate Ouroboroses will be as benevolent as this one. They could be led by an insane version of yourself for all we know," warned Ramiel.
 
"Time will tell, Ramiel--time will tell," Silos trailed off.
 
"While you ponder, Silos, I have a favor to repay. Excuse me for a moment," said Ramiel.


== Introductions ==
== Introductions ==
Line 105: Line 29:
* Trained up to Level 50
* Trained up to Level 50
* Have [[Entrusted with the Secret Badge]]
* Have [[Entrusted with the Secret Badge]]
* Purchase of [[Going Rogue]]


=== Contact Introduces ===
=== Contact Introduces ===
Line 130: Line 53:


=== Too Busy ===
=== Too Busy ===
{{Missing}}
Settle anything that you need to finish and then speak with me, {{Character}}.


=== No More Missions ===
=== No More Missions ===
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== Story Arc ==
== Story Arc ==
=== Power Overwhelming ===
=== Power Overwhelming ===
{{ArcAward|m=5}}
{{ArcAward|m=6}}


==== Souvenir ====
==== Souvenir ====
'''Souvenir:''' Incarnate shard
 
[[Incarnate Shard]]


You received this Incarnate Shard during your travel to find the [[Well of the Furies]] in [[Cimerora]]. It reminds you of an experience you call...
You received this Incarnate Shard during your travel to find the [[Well of the Furies]] in [[Cimerora]]. It reminds you of an experience you call...
Line 221: Line 145:
The words of Lady Grey remain in your mind, however, as you begin down this path. There is always the temptation to try to grow in power quickly, but to do so would mean losing your very being to the immense power that is the Well.
The words of Lady Grey remain in your mind, however, as you begin down this path. There is always the temptation to try to grow in power quickly, but to do so would mean losing your very being to the immense power that is the Well.


==== {{UL|Part One: What Could Be}} ====
{{Mission:Power Overwhelming - Part One: What Could Be}}
'''Briefing'''
{{Mission:Power Overwhelming - Part Two: The One That Got Away}}
 
{{Mission:Power Overwhelming - Part Three: Consequences}}
I have seen [[Ouroboros]], far, far in the future. You would barely recognize it, covered in flames as it was. [[The Coming Storm|The Storm]] was on all sides... And then... They simply moved on. Once we were crippled, we were beneath their notice. The mighty Ouroboros and [[Mender Silos]] reduced to an irrelevancy.
{{Mission:Power Overwhelming - Finale: The Powers that Be}}
 
But then you appeared, full of the power of the [[Incarnate]]s. That is why I am back this far, back farther than the ordinary laws of time would allow. You broke the laws to send me back. You told me to call you once I arrived and give you this.
 
{{orange|Mender Ramiel pulls out a small crystal of ice and flame.}}
 
{{green|I wanted you to give me... a crystal of ice and flame?}}
 
Yes. In it is your memory of our first meeting together, when you came to Ouroboros and sent me here. Use the pillars here to experience it.
 
{{yellow|You will be as you were then, a mighty and terrible Incarnate, full with the fruits of the Well. I do not know how far in the future that will be... going back this far has disoriented me.}}
 
Once you are inside the memory, you will need to rescue me. Just as you did in my past.
 
'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''
 
Do not tarry, {{Character}}. We have a long road ahead of us.
[[File:Futureouroboros.jpg|right|250px|thumb|{{center|A ruined future}}]]
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=The memory begins with a ruined Ouroboros and you entering it, fueled by the true power you've tapped through the Incarnates!|Primary=View your Future Memory|Secondary=Rescue Mender Ramiel|Additional=|Completion=You've watched your future self rescue Mender Ramiel.}}
 
'''Enemies'''
 
* {{Enemy Time Echoes}} ([[Archvillain]]s)
 
'''Temporary Powers'''
 
Upon entrance of mission, all player characters and related pets are subjected to the following temporary powers:
 
{{PowerBox|Icon=Incarnate StoryArc.png|Name=Divine Core Oscillation|Effect=Add Proc: +Unresistable Damage<br />Incarnate|Desc=Your experience has interpreted this power as adding unresistable damage to most of your damaging attacks. How it actually works? You have no idea.}}
{{PowerBox|Icon=Incarnate StoryArc.png|Name=Limitless Radial Freeeem|Effect=Self +Everything (Special)<br />Incarnate|Desc=The details of this ability are hazy, but from the perspective of this memory... you cannot even grasp the power it grants you.}}
{{PowerBox|Icon=Incarnate StoryArc.png|Name=Paradox Core Eternity|Effect=Self Untouchable (Special)<br />Incarnate|Desc=It is difficult to sort out the details of this ability from the memory, but apparently it grants you a period of complete invulnerability immediately after a time travel event.}}
 
 
'''Notable NPCs'''
 
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Statesman|Echo of Statesman]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Positron|Echo of Positron]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Sister Psyche|Echo of Sister Psyche]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Reichsman|Echo of Reichsman]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Requiem|Echo of Requiem]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Hro'Dtohz|Echo of Hro'Dtohz]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Imperious|Echo of Imperious]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Romulus Augustus|Echo of Romulus Augustus]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of the Crystal Titan|Echo of the Crystal Titan]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Lord Recluse|Echo of Lord Recluse]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Ghost Widow|Echo of Ghost Widow]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Black Scorpion|Echo of Black Scorpion]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of the Honoree|Echo of the Honoree]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Glacia|Echo of Glacia]] (Archvillain)
* [[Time Echoes#Echo of Ruladak the Strong|Echo of Ruladak the Strong]] (Archvillain)
* Mender Ramiel (non-escort hostage)
 
 
{{EdNote|note=For this mission only, [[Archvillain]]s do not scale down into [[Elite Boss]]es regardless of difficulty settings}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Time Echoes combat start|text=<nowiki> </nowiki>
'''Echo of Hro'Dtohz:''' ''You meddle with forces beyond mortal comprehension.''<br />
'''Echo of Statesman:''' ''Even an Incarnate stands no chance against our masters.''<br />
'''Echo of Reichsman:''' ''Can you ever defeat that which is just a memory?''<br />
'''Echo of Imperious:''' ''Our masters will smite you when the time comes.''<br />
'''Echo of the Crystal Titan:''' ''Don't be a fool, {{Character}}.''<br />
'''Echo of Lord Recluse:''' ''The Well has poisoned you, {{Character}}.''<br />
'''Echo of the Honoree:''' ''Whatever happens, don't let {{Character}} reach the Mender.''
<nowiki> </nowiki>}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Mender Ramiel dialogue|text=
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Mender Ramiel|Text=
NO! NO! Stay away! You mustn't... you are just illusions! You have no power over me!
 
* {{green|I'm not with them. I'm here to help.}}
 
:You... you're {{Character}}? What... the echoes, they didn't wipe you away?
 
:* {{green|I've become a lot more powerful since I was fighting the likes of them.}}
 
::What... what do you want with me?
 
::* {{green|You're a Mender still, right? I need you to take a message back in time.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the [[Well of the Furies]].}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of [[Praxidae]]? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
 
::* {{green|You're going to go back in time and do exactly as I say.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
 
:* {{green|They're just some chumps from a long time ago.}}
 
::What... what do you want with me?
 
::* {{green|You're a Mender still, right? I need you to take a message back in time.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
 
::* {{green|You're going to go back in time and do exactly as I say.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
 
* {{green|Snap out of it! (Slap Mender Ramiel across the face)}}
:{{orange|You watch your future Incarnate self slap Mender Ramiel in the face, careful to control your powers so as to not cause Ramiel's head to pop off.}}
 
:You... you're {{Character}}? What... the echoes, they didn't wipe you away?
 
:* {{green|I've become a lot more powerful since I was fighting the likes of them.}}
 
::What... what do you want with me?
 
::* {{green|You're a Mender still, right? I need you to take a message back in time.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
 
::* {{green|You're going to go back in time and do exactly as I say.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
 
:* {{green|They're just some chumps from a long time ago.}}
 
::What... what do you want with me?
 
::* {{green|You're a Mender still, right? I need you to take a message back in time.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
 
::* {{green|You're going to go back in time and do exactly as I say.}}
 
:::{{orange|The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.}}
 
:::{{green|Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.}}
 
:::The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
 
:::{{green|Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.}}
 
:::{{orange|Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.}}
}}}}
 
'''Debriefing'''
 
So as you can tell... despite what Mender Silos may have believed in the past, the Well is no mere myth. And it is not merely contained to this world, or even to this dimension.
 
Your efforts here will attract the attention of the Well in time, but by then it may be too late. I was sent here to accelerate that event. But becoming an Incarnate is a long, arduous, and never-ending process. It is not some switch that you flick off or on.
 
Even so, every journey begins with a first step.
 
==== {{UL|Part Two: The One That Got Away}} ====
'''Briefing'''
 
The power that you had in that timelime was immense, {{Character}}. We need to see about starting you down that path in order to combat what is to come.
 
Our best resource would be to consult with those Incarnates who currently exist among us. I believe you know of them quite well, correct? [[Statesman]] and [[Lord Recluse]]. Both of them would be the most 'well known' Incarnates.
 
{{green|'''Well known?  There are others?'''}}
 
Of course. That is what I am hoping they will tell us. There are many other Incarnates out there aside from those two. Some more powerful than them, others much less. There are even some who do not ''realize'' that they have this connection to the Well.
 
{{divbox|blue|Hero|
Those who are connected, however, have an acute sense of others who share this bond. Go speak with Statesman to see if he will tell you what he knows regarding Incarnates. Just be warned, he may not be so willing to share his secrets, knowing that you may one day overshadow his current power.}}
 
{{divbox|red|Villain|
Those who are connected, however, have an acute sense of others who share this bond. Go speak with Lord Recluse to see if he will tell you what they know regarding Incarnates. Just be warned, he may not be so willing to share his secrets, knowing that you may one day overshadow his current power.}}
 
===== {{UL|Speak with Statesman/Lord Recluse}} =====
'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''
 
{{divbox|blue|Hero|Have you spoken with Statesman yet?}}
 
{{divbox|red|Villain|Have you spoken with Lord Recluse yet?}}
 
{{divbox|blue|Hero|
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Speak with Statesman|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=}}
 
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Statesman|Text=
{{divbox|blue|Default|
{{Character}}, what can I do for you today?
 
{{green|I'm here to find out about Incarnates, Statesman.}}}}
 
{{divbox|blue|[[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Saved the World}} [[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]]|
{{Character}}! Always good to see you.  You fought well against Recluse and his plan to absorb the powers of everyone in the world.  What can I do for someone such as you?
 
{{green|I'm here to find out about Incarnates, Statesman.}}}}
 
{{divbox|blue|[[File:Badge 5thColumnHeroBadge.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Column Breaker}} [[File:Badge 5thColumnHeroBadge.png|18px]]|
{{Missing}}
 
{{green|+++ Missing Information +++}}}}
 
{{divbox|blue|[[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Usurper}} [[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]]|
{{Character}}, it is... good to see you. You have been through a lot, haven't you? Serving Recluse... striking him down. We are still wary of you in the Phalanx, due to your actions against us. But, you have earned our respect for taking the fight to Recluse's door. What is it that you want from me today?
 
{{green|I'm here to find out about Incarnates, Statesman.}}}}
 
{{divbox|blue|[[File:V badge TaskForceBadge3.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Former Servant of Recluse}} [[File:V badge TaskForceBadge3.png|18px]]|
... {{Character}}. You had best choose your words very carefully. I am not in a mood to deal with your actions any further. Unless you are here to once again threaten the Freedom Phalanx?
 
{{green|Easy. I'm here to find out about Incarnates.}}}}
 
Incarnates? What do you want to know about them? It is common knowledge where the source of my power comes from. I'm afraid, however, that there's little else I could tell you.
 
{{green|I believe you might know about others becoming Incarnates.}}
 
{{orange|Statesman pauses, looking you over.}}
 
... I can't divulge that information, {{Character}}. You have plenty of power already. [[Lord Recluse|Recluse]] has shown that even just one other powerful Incarnate is enough to throw the world into chaos. I can't risk -
 
{{orange|Statesman begins to shake wildly, staggering backwards. After a few moments, he becomes still, breathing lightly.}}
 
{{green|... Statesman?}}
 
{{yellow|'''No, not Statesman. You may know me as the Well of the Furies. I am speaking to you now through Statesman. You wish to earn my power, do you? To go beyond the limits of what your current peers are capable of? Statesman would see that no others achieve this, but I will not let his petty concerns come between you and your goals.'''}}
 
{{yellow|'''There is a man, his name is [[Trapdoor]]. Lord Recluse forced the powers of the Incarnate upon him, setting this man on a path that would eventually lead him to you. He had been captured by [[Arachnos]], but escaped. In the process, he acquired a very powerful item, one that responds to those who have the power of the Incarnate.'''}}
 
{{yellow|'''However, his power is tainted, he is unable to get it to respond. You, however... you could obtain this item and begin your ascent to greatness.'''}}
 
{{green|Where is Trapdoor located?}}
 
{{yellow|'''He is located in a [[Council]] base, cowering in fear of his own destiny. If you go there, you can take the artifact from him and begin to move yourself forward. That is all I will say for now, {{Character}}. Until we meet again.'''}}
 
{{orange|Statesman collapses in front of you, catching his breath. You should go speak with Mender Ramiel about what happened here, before moving to find Trapdoor.}}
 
{{Mission Clue|Name=Statesman and the Well|Text=You went to speak with Statesman regarding Incarnates. Statesman was wary about giving you any information. Before you could try to convince him, he was taken over by a being claiming to be the Well of the Furies. It told you that you could find a way to begin your path as an Incarnate through an artifact being held by a man named Trapdoor.}}
 
{{green|(Leave)}}
 
}}}}
 
{{divbox|red|Villain|
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Speak with Lord Recluse|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=}}
 
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Lord Recluse|Text=
{{divbox|red|Default|
{{Character}}. Why have you come to my doorstep? Do you wish to try to curry my favor? Or are you here to try to take my power from me?
 
{{green|Neither. I'm here to ask you about Incarnates.}}}}
 
{{divbox|red|[[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Usurper}} [[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]]|
{{Character}}, know that the only reason I allow you to enter this hall is because of the respect you command. You are outside of my control, ever since that battle you and I had in the future.
 
Why have you come here today?
 
{{green|It's regarding Incarnates.}}}}
 
{{divbox|red|[[File:Badge 5thColumnVillainBadge.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Arbiter}} [[File:Badge 5thColumnVillainBadge.png|18px]]|
{{Character}}. I do not say this to many often, but it is good to see you, given the aid you rendered regarding that situation with [[Reichsman]]. What do you wish to speak about?
 
{{green|I'm here to speak about Incarnates.}}}}
 
{{divbox|red|[[File:V badge TaskForceBadge3.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Servant of Recluse}} [[File:V badge TaskForceBadge3.png|18px]]|
Ah, {{Character}}. You're a welcome sight here within Arachnos, since your attack on the very heart of the [[Freedom Phalanx]] itself! What is it that you want?
 
{{green|I want to speak with you about Incarnates.}}}}
 
{{divbox|red|[[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Saved the World... For Later}} [[File:Badge defeatrecluse.png|18px]]|
Make this quick, {{Character}}. I have not so soon forgotten your role in stopping one of my largest plans to date.
 
{{green|I don't like this any more than you do. I'm here to talk to you about Incarnates.}}}}
 
{{orange|Lord Recluse laughs, shaking his head.}}
 
You've come to ask me about Incarnates? I suppose it is well known where the source of my power comes from.
 
What did you seek to know, {{Character}}?
 
{{green|I'm here to find out the path towards becoming an Incarnate.}}
 
The path? There is no one true path, {{Character}}. Well... That isn't true. There are some ways towards becoming an Incarnate. Perhaps... You would like to offer yourself as an experiment to find out just -
 
{{orange|Lord Recluse grips his chest as his eyes go wide.}}
 
Not... you...!
 
{{orange|Recluse's head slumps forward, turning back and forth, as if struggling against something. After a moment, he calms and looks to you.}}
 
{{green|Recluse?}}
 
{{yellow|'''Recluse is not here at the moment. You are speaking to what many call the Well of the Furies. Recluse would never tell you what he secretly knows, what he secretly dreads. He is a... disappointment, really. He craves power, but seeks to gain it in every other method save for ones connected to myself. I can see in you this desire for power, however. You will never be able to gain it through Recluse.'''}}
 
{{yellow|'''That is why I am speaking to you today, {{Character}}. There are many who would stand in your way towards obtaining the power found within the Well. I would move to tip the scales in your favor. Do you know of a man named [[Trapdoor]]? He was part of Lord Recluse's plans to try to replicate my power without my actual power source. He succeeded... somewhat.'''}}
 
{{yellow|'''Trapdoor was recently a prisoner of [[Arachnos]], but escaped. He tracked down an item that is connected to myself, an Incarnate artifact, if you will. He is aware of its power, but his twisted source of power will not trigger the artifact.'''}}
 
{{green|Where can I find Trapdoor?}}
 
{{yellow|'''He is hiding within a [[Council]] base, trying to escape the arm of Arachnos. If you are able to defeat him, you can claim his artifact for yourself. It will give you a link to the untapped power of the Well and begin your true rise to power. Until we meet again, {{Character}}...'''}}
 
{{orange|The Well leaves Recluse's body. You decide it would be best to step away and speak to Mender Ramiel before pursuing the wishes of the Well.}}
 
{{Mission Clue|Name=Recluse and the Well|Text=You went to speak with Lord Recluse regarding Incarnates. Recluse refused to give you any information and was then taken over by a being claiming to be the Well of the Furies. It told you that you could find a way to begin your path as an Incarnate through an artifact being held by a man named Trapdoor.}}
 
{{green|(Leave)}}
 
}}}}
 
===== {{UL|Speak with Mender Ramiel}} =====
'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''
 
{{EdNote|note=As Mender Ramiel has not given you a means of contacting him without talking face to face, there is no Unnecessary Solicitation.}}
 
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Speak with Mender Ramiel|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=}}
 
{{divbox|blue|Hero|
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Mender Ramiel|Text=
{{Character}}, were you able to get in touch with one of the Incarnates?
 
{{green|I spoke with Statesman for a moment, before the Well took him over.}}
 
Statesman was taken over by the Well? This is very interesting, {{Character}}. My studies into the Well have not covered something such as that. I will have to expand my horizons a bit more...
 
You said the Well told you about a man named Trapdoor who had an artifact on him? This may be the entrance we're looking for, {{Character}}. That artifact may respond to someone such as yourself, even if its full power is not fully realized. I would propose that you go to track down the artifact, while I do my research into the Well taking control over powerful Incarnates.
 
You'll only need to retrieve the artifact from Trapdoor. Whether or not that's through his demise is up to you.
 
{{green|Alright, I'll be back soon.}}
}}}}
 
{{divbox|red|Villain|
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Mender Ramiel|Text=
{{Character}}, were you able to get in touch with one of the Incarnates?
 
{{green|I spoke with Recluse... and the Well.}}
 
The Well? It communicated directly to you?
 
{{orange|You explain to Mender Ramiel what the Well told you, along with the fate of Trapdoor.}}
 
Interesting... I should study more of Recluse's motives. I do wonder if he would ever be able to properly replicate the power of the Well without requiring a ''connection'' to it...
 
Oh, yes, Trapdoor. It is a bit concerning that the Well was able to take over Recluse like that. It would be a shame for you to gain this power only to lose yourself, wouldn't it? I can look into the possible reasons why this happened to Recluse. For now, I would say it's safe enough to take the artifact from Trapdoor.
 
The artifact is one that does not sound like it contains a lot of power. In fact, I imagine it is stilll de-powered, waiting to be activated. The sooner you can retrieve it, the better. I should have more information for you regarding this power when you return.
 
{{green|Very well.}}
}}}}
 
===== {{UL|Track down Trapdoor}} =====
'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''
 
I'm making some strides on my end regarding the Well, {{Character}}.
 
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=You're teleported directly into the Council base. Trapdoor lurks somewhere within, holding the artifact that can unlock the powers of an Incarnate.|Primary=Track down Trapdoor|Secondary=Face off against Trapdoor|Additional=**Speak with Trapdoor|Completion=You've recovered the artifact from Trapdoor!}}
 
'''Enemies'''
 
{{Enemy Council}}
{{Enemy Arachnos}}
 
'''Notable NPCs'''
 
* [[Trapdoor]] ([[Elite Boss]])
* Trapdoor Bifurcation (Bifurcation [[Minion]])
 
{{EdNote|note=If struggling against Trapdoor's regeneration, one tactic is to use the lava on the ground floor to help drain his healthpoints by making him stand in it while fighting. The 'best' way is to defeat the Bifurcations whenever they are spawned, as they are the main cause of Trapdoor's high regeneration. Seize the moment to attack Trapdoor as much as possible before he respawns them.}}
{{NPC Text|title=Random chatter 1|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Council minion 1:''' ''We need to secure this area! Arachnos is crawling inside!''
:'''Council minion 2:''' ''Just stay calm, if Trapdoor can figure out how to unlock the artifact, we will gain a powerful new ally.''
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Council minion 1:'''  ''{{Character}}! How did you find out about this?!''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Random chatter 2|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Council minion:''' ''You will not get any further!''
:'''Arachnos minion:''' ''We're here for a prisoner. Get in the way and you'll be coming in with him!''
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Council minion:''' ''Repel the intruders!''
:'''Arachnos minion:''' ''{{Character}}! You won't stand in our path!}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Random chatter 3|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Council minion:''' ''Keep them back!''
:'''Arachnos minion:''' ''Move forward! I can see Trapdoor ahead!''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Trapdoor dialogue|text=
'''Before combat:''' ''Just need to figure out... why this isn't working... it's SUPPOSED to work... come on!''<br />
'''Combat start:''' ''Y-you! I see that look, you know what this artifact is! Stay away!''<br />
'''At 75% life:''' ''I didn't escape from Arachnos just to be beaten here, not by you!''<br />
'''At 50% life:''' ''I have the powers of an Incarnate! I won't be defeated!''<br />
'''At 25% life:''' ''H-hold on... please... please have mercy!''
 
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Trapdoor|Text=
Please... just let me walk away! I didn't want any of this to happen, I just wanted to live a normal life!
 
{{green|Where is the artifact?}}
 
{{orange|You see Trapdoor grasping the artifact, glaring at you.}}
 
You can't have it! Do you hear me?! This holds the key to untold power, power that I won't let fall into someone else's hands!
 
{{green|... you want mercy and then you say something like that?}}
 
I can't go back to my normal life, don't you understand?! I need this to continue forward, to make my mark, to fight for my old life back! I won't let ''you'' take away this chance from me, do you hear me?!
 
* {{green|I'll help you get your old life back. Just give me the artifact and you can begin.}}
 
:You... you would do that? You're not just going to send me back to an Arachnos prison? Who could help me? Who ''would'' help me?
 
:{{green|There are people out there who will help you. Trust me.}}
 
:{{orange|Trapdoor looks around suspiciously, then back to you.}}
 
:... Alright. I'll give you the artifact. But mark my words, {{Character}}. If this is a trick... If no one will help me, I'll find you again!
 
:{{orange|Trapdoor extends his hand, holding the artifact in the palm of his hand.}}
 
:{{green|(Take the artifact)}}
 
::[[File:Originicon natural.png|18px]] {{orange|The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a mirror. It is big enough that you can just see your face within it.}}
::[[File:Originicon magic.png|18px]] {{orange|The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a magic symbol, solid in your palm.}}
::[[File:Originicon mutation.png|18px]] {{orange|The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a replica DNA strand, solid in your palm.}}
::[[File:Originicon science.png|18px]] {{orange|The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a solid piece of paper riddled with numerous equations and formulas.}}
::[[File:Originicon technology.png|18px]] {{orange|The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a schematic for some sort of device, though you're not sure what exactly this device is.}}
 
{{Mission Clue|Name=Redeemed Trapdoor|Text=You chose to help Trapdoor redeem himself. He trusted enough in you to hand over the Incarnate artifact that was in his possession.}}
 
:{{green|Leave}}
 
* {{green|I don't have time for this. I'm taking this artifact, even if it's at the cost of your life!}}
 
:{{orange|Trapdoor prepares to fight you again, though it's obvious that he's in no shape to pose a challenge to you anymore.}}
 
:{{green|(Finish off Trapdoor and take the artifact.)}}
 
::[[File:Originicon natural.png|18px]] {{orange|You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a mirror. It is big enough that you can just see your face within it.}}
::[[File:Originicon magic.png|18px]] {{orange|You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a magic symbol, solid in your palm.}}
::[[File:Originicon mutation.png|18px]] {{orange|You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a replica DNA strand, solid in your palm.}}
::[[File:Originicon science.png|18px]] {{orange|You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a solid piece of paper riddled with numerous equations and formulas.}}
::[[File:Originicon technology.png|18px]] {{orange|You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a schematic for some sort of device, though you're not sure what exactly this device is.}}
 
{{Mission Clue|Name=Killed Trapdoor|Text=You decided to kill Trapdoor, as it was obvious he was unwilling to give you his Incarnate artifact.}}
 
:{{green|Leave}}
}}
'''Upon death:''' ''W-why...?''
}}
 
'''Debriefing'''
 
{{EdNote|note=There is no Debriefing message. Mender Ramiel will prompt the player for his next mission.}}
 
==== {{UL|Part Three: Consequences}} ====
'''Briefing'''
 
There is a woman in your time, her name is [[Lady Grey]]. You've heard of her, I presume? She is a very... knowledgeable woman. I do not quite know her entire background as of yet, but I do know she is aware of a very powerful Incarnate that exists, one other than Statesman or Recluse. She also should be able to answer the very important question regarding ''how'' the Well is able to take command over those who are Incarnates.
 
If you speak to her, I promise that you will be able to learn all that you need to regarding the situation with the Incarnates.
 
'''{{green|Is there anything else I need to know beforehand?}}'''
 
Just that her help may come at a price. Running [[Vanguard]] is not a simple matter, nor is having the knowledge that she does. No one ever said the power to become an Incarnate would be easy.
 
===== {{UL|Speak with Lady Grey}} =====
'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''
 
Have you spoken with Lady Grey yet?
 
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Speak with Lady Grey|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=}}
 
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=The Lady Grey|Text=
 
{{divbox|blue|Default|
Greetings, {{Character}}. You'll have to pardon me, there are many issues I must handle today. Please, let's make this quick.
 
{{green|I've been told you know something about Incarnates.}}}}
 
{{divbox|blue|[[File:Badge task force apocalyptic.png|18px]] {{BadgeLink|Apocalyptic}} [[File:Badge task force apocalyptic.png|18px]]|
{{Character}}, it is a pleasure to see you again. Your work in aiding us against the [[Rikti]] and in reclaiming the [[Honoree]] was invaluable. What can I do for you today?
 
{{green|I've been told you know about Incarnates.}}}}
 
{{orange|Lady Grey remains silent for a few moments.}}
 
... Yes, I do. You are interested in this path to power, are you? Then, perhaps we can help each other out.
 
We recently had an issue where a container holding a connection to the Well was stolen. We believe it was the work of a rogue Vanguard captain named [[Captain Holtz]]. He may have also been working with [[Crey]].
 
[[Gaussian]] has been working on tracking down the captain, but we cannot risk sending in our own soldiers to track Holtz and the item down, given that Holtz had a very high reputation amongst his men. If you help us track down the container and the rogue captain, I will tell you everything you need to know. Are we agreed?
 
{{green|You've got yourself a deal.}}
 
Excellent. I must warn you, {{Character}}, {{orange|this retrieval may be extremely difficult for you to do on your own. I would suggest gathering allies to help you in this task.}} When we speak again, it will be when you have been enlightened by the nature of Incarnates.
 
{{green|Very well.}}}}
 
===== {{UL|Retrieve the stolen Incarnate container}} =====
'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''
 
Lady Grey has agreed to assist you? Excellent. Though, I wonder what exactly is in this container?
 
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=You enter the tunnels where this container has been stolen off to. Though, you have to wonder ''what'' exactly is being held in this container.|Primary=Retrieve the stolen Incarnate container|Secondary=Search for the Container
*** Recover the Honoree
*** Defeat Captain Holtz|Additional=|Completion=You find the remnants of the container.<br />You've recovered the Honoree and defeated Captain Holtz!}}
 
{{Ambush|There will be four waves of ambushes by [[Rikti]] about halfway into the mission.<br />
''Intruders: Repel!''<br />
''Base: Compromised.''<br />
''Invaders: Crey?''<br />
''Mercy: show none!''}}
 
{{Ambush|On approaching the room with the Weakened Honoree, there will be one ambush by [[Rikti]].<br />
''Honoree: Recover!''}}
 
'''Enemies'''
 
{{Enemy Rikti}}
{{Enemy Crey}}
 
'''Notable NPCs'''
* [[Captain Holtz]] ([[Vanguard#Vanguard Colonel|Vanguard Colonel]], [[Archvillain]])
* [[Honoree|Weakened Honoree]] ([[Archvillain]])
* permanently open [[Assault Portal|Rikti Assault Portals]] x 5 (object)
 
{{NPC Text|title=Random chatter 1|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Rikti minion 1:''' ''Intruders becoming: large nuisance.''
:'''Rikti minion 2:''' ''Requesting: immediate support.''
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Rikti minion 1:''' ''Further intrusion: typical.''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Random chatter 2|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Crey minion 1:''' ''Doesn't this seem to be a bit risky to you?''
:'''Crey minion 2:''' ''Maybe. But this is going to lead to something huge.''
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Crey minion 1:''' ''We'll just have to deal with {{Character}}first!''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Random chatter 3|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Crey minion 1:''' ''How could you have even LET this happen?!''
:'''Crey minion 2:''' ''It's gone! He's double-crossed us!''
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Crey minion 1:''' ''Great, now we've got more problems on our hands!''}}
 
''You found the remnants of the container''
{{Mission Clue|Name=Container Remnants|Text=You look through the pile of rubble and find a large piece of metal. It's obvious that this was just one piece of a very large container. You're able to make out some words on one side of the container. 'Honoree Containment'. If this held the Honoree, then he must be somewhere deeper within the tunnels! But does this mean that he is an Incarnate?}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Captain Holtz|text=
'''Before combat:''' ''Crey was foolish to think I'd just hand you over to them, especially with this device to control you.''<br />
'''Combat start:''' ''Here to put a stop to me, are you? I can't have that at all, not when I've got the Honoree!''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Weakened Honoree|text=
'''Before combat:''' ''Uhhh....''<br />
'''Combat start:''' ''Memories flowing: cannot control... cannot control!''<br />
'''At 75% life:''' ''Stay back: being controlled!''<br />
'''At 50% life:''' ''Die: DIE!''<br />
'''At 25% life:''' ''Holding: back. Must try to: hold back!''
 
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Weakened Honoree|Text=
{{orange|The Honoree lets out a few grunts before looking up to you. You expect his garbled Rikti talk, but instead hear a familiar voice.}}
 
'''{{yellow|I told you that we would meet again, {{Character}}. Your journey to find out more about the power of the Incarnates would eventually lead you to here.}}'''
 
{{green|You knew I would come here, after Trapdoor?}}
 
{{divbox|blue|Redeemed Trapdoor|
'''{{yellow|I did. I must say, I'm disappointed that you chose not to finish him off. He will come back to hunt you down, even if he is saved. But that is neither here nor there.}}'''}}
 
{{divbox|red|Killed Trapdoor|
'''{{yellow|I did. I must say, it's good to see that you had the will to put Trapdoor down. It shows that you are willing to... do what it takes to achieve your power..}}'''}}
 
'''{{yellow|You must be wondering about the Honoree, or as he was once called, [[Hero 1]]. He is indeed an Incarnate, one just as powerful as Statesman or Lord Recluse. He did not know this, however. The sword that he found on that fateful day so long ago imbued him with tremendous powers, powers linked directly to me. Even without the sword in his possession, he is still linked to me, much like the the Lady who granted him the sword is.}}'''
 
'''{{yellow|As you can see, {{Character}}, the connections to my source are numerous and vast, given only to those who prove themselves worthy. Even now, in his deranged and destroyed state, Hero 1 is able to maintain some sort of control, however little it is, over himself. Few are able to do this against the Rikti, and for that, he has earned my respect.}}'''
 
{{green|What now? What about this artifact in my hand?}}
 
'''{{yellow|It is one that is unique to yourself and the source of your own power. You saw it shift, take form to your center, yes? It is much like Hero 1's Excalibur, or the Fountain that Statesman and Recluse drank from. But, you will need it to be powered. In its current state, it is useless to you. Once it is fully powered, however, it will allow you to be directly linked to myself, making you even more powerful than Hero 1, Statesman, or Recluse. Those three, they were simple men when they found my artifacts. Yes, they had proven themselves already, but their abilities were no where near your own.}}'''
 
'''{{yellow|Go to the ancient time of [[Cimerora]], to one of the caverns off the shores. Deep within there, you will find one of my sources, one of my wells. When you come in contact with it, your artifact shall be fully powered, empowering you to unimaginable ends!}}'''
 
'''{{yellow|I look forward to seeing you very soon, {{Character}}. Yes.. soon, you and I shall be linked together...}}'''
 
'''{{orange|The voice leaves the Honoree's body. It would be best to teleport him back to Vanguard now. In his current state, he will either be taken back by the Rikti and used for their own purposes, or turn against you if you were try to use him for your own ends.}}'''
 
{{green|(Send the Honoree back to Vanguard.)}}
 
{{orange|You tag the Honoree with a beacon, teleporting him away.}}
}}}}
 
===== {{UL|Speak with Lady Grey}} =====
'''Unecessary Solicitation'''
 
Let's meet again once you've spoken with Lady Grey.
 
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Speak with Lady Grey|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=}}
 
{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=The Lady Grey|Text=
Thank you for your aid, {{Character}}. You no doubt know by now that the Honoree... that Hero 1 was an Incarnate. Did you hear the voice? The one from the Well?
 
{{green|Yes, I did. Can it control any Incarnate?}}
 
What I am about to tell you must come with no questions regarding how or why I have this knowledge.
 
The Well's control is very specific, {{Character}}, for there are two paths towards the path of becoming a fully powered Incarnate. The first is the fast path, one where the user is granted unimaginable power in a large amount. This is what happened to Statesman, Recluse, and Hero 1. Those who travel down this path develop a very close link to the Well very quickly. This is why the Well is able to control them.
 
The fate of those who travel down this path is one of constant servitude. Of the three, only Recluse and Statesman were truly aware of this. There is always the risk that the Well will seek to control them; this risk is increased when they try to increase their own power. In a sense, their freedom is confined. If they do not seek more power than what they've been given, they have a chance of fighting the Well's control. To seek more power from the Well itself... it would risk them seeing an end to their own selves.
 
This is why Statesman has always been fearful of trying to seek out more power, both for himself and others. Recluse, in all of his bids for power, has been trying to seek a way to destroy this link and still maintain his power. While Statesman remains in his place with the Well, Recluse seeks to defy it, to destroy it and earn his freedom.
 
{{green|You said there were two paths. What is the other?}}
 
The other is a slower path, gradually gaining more and more power from the Well. This is one that some have begun, but many of these people are not widely known. This path obviously takes much longer than the other, but those who follow this path have no risk of being controlled by the Well. The link of the Well to the person is not as strong as the previous path, meaning that one could tap into the limitless power of the Well without fear of being consumed by it.
 
However... there are still risks, even with this, but that is simply human nature. Once one gets a taste of the power of the Well, it may become increasingly difficult to resist the urge to try to gain more and more power as quickly as possible. To do this, however, would seal your fate to that of the Well's. This slower path is one that will ensure your freedom and the possibility of unending power, if you can resist its calling to let yourself be consumed by it.
 
{{green|Interesting... is there anything else?}}
 
That is all, {{Character}}. Thank you again for your help. And if you are choosing to walk down this path, be careful. You walk on the thin edge of a sword. The only thing that will prevent you from becoming lost within the Well is your own willpower.
 
Remember that always.
 
{{green|I will.}}
}}
 
'''Debriefing'''
 
You've spoken with Lady Grey?
 
Hm... interesting. This confirms many of my theories, though I do wonder ''how'' the Lady knows this. If what the Well told you is true, then we have an exact location where you can fully power your artifact. Are you concerned, however, about losing yourself to the Well?
 
When we arrive, you will be able to make the choice of how you want to proceed. You can either allow a small portion of the the Well's power in to the artifact to empower it, preventing the Well from controlling you, or drown the artifact in the Well's power. The choice is yours, {{Character}}, though the latter is a fate that I, personally, would choose to avoid.
 
==== {{UL|Finale: The Powers that Be}} ====
'''Briefing'''
 
With the location revealed to us, there is little else to do other than to go directly there. I've spoken with Mender Silos, who has requested to go along with us. I've had [[Mender Lazarus]] scan the time we are going to, however. He has found there are some... irregularities with it. Are you familiar with them, {{Character}}?
 
[[Midnight Squad|Large groups]] have been travelling into this ancient time of Cimerora... ''without'' the permission of Ouroboros. It is something we've become aware of and which Mender Lazarus is closely looking into. I bring this to your attention because we do not know if this time irregularities that we are seeing are around the Well, or are from those who are interfering with the past of Cimerora.
 
'''{{green|So we don't know who we might find near the Well?}}'''
 
Precisely. Silos and I will come in once the area is secured. We will send you first into the cave to analyze the situation.
 
{{orange|I must warn you, anything could be down there, waiting to stop you and your attempt to become an Incarnate.}} When all is clear, that is when the choice will come down to you. You can either lose yourself to the Well and gain untold power, or train yourself, slowly, to control the power and maintain your own destiny.
 
'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''
 
I shall meet you there, {{Character}}, to see this occasion.
 
{{Mission Objective|Entrance=This cavern within Cimerora hums with great power.|Primary=Find the Well of the Furies|Secondary=Defeat the Guardian of the Well
*** Proceed into the inner chamber
**** Look around for anything left over from the Well|Additional=|Completion=You've recovered an Incarnate shard and have unlocked your potential as an Incarnate!}}
 
'''Enemies'''
 
{{Enemy Cimeroran Traitors}}
{{Enemy Time Echoes}}
 
'''Notable NPCs'''
 
{{NPC Text|title=Cimeroran Traitors random chatter 1|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Cimeroran Traitor minion 1:''' ''Did you ever notice no one talks about guarding this cave?''
:'''Cimeroran Traitor minion 2:''' ''Feh. It's not as though Romulus kills them so they don't reveal its location.''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Cimeroran Traitors random chatter 2|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Cimeroran Traitor minion 1:''' ''I'm not going any deeper, that much I'm certain of.''
:'''Cimeroran Traitor minion 2:''' ''Strange doings lie beyond. I'm with you.
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Cimeroran Traitor minion 1:''' ''Another nightmare!''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Time Echoes random chatter 1|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Time Echoes minion 1:''' ''{{Character}} will be much easier to stop here.''
:'''Time Echoes minion 2:''' ''I don't even think he/she is an Incarnate yet in this timeline.''
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Time Echoes minion 1:''' ''Are you surprised to see us again?''
:'''Time Echoes minion 2:''' ''We know what you did for the Mender.''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Time Echoes random chatter 2|text=
'''Before combat:'''
:'''Time Echoes minion 1:''' ''I was not aware we would locate the Well so quickly.''
:'''Time Echoes minion 2:''' ''Delay him/her as long as you can.''
'''Combat start:'''
:'''Time Echoes minion 1:''' ''Not so powerful now, {{Character}}?''}}
 
{{NPC Text|title=Echo of Minos dialogue|text=
'''Before combat:''' ''The Well has moved!''
:''But at least we have {{Character}} as a consolation.''
'''Combat start:''' ''This is not your day to become an Incarnate, {{Character}}!''}}
 
{{Cutscene|Text=[[File:CutsceneRamiel1.jpg|300px|right|thumb|{{center|The Well has been moved...}}]]
'''Mender Silos:'''
:''The Well is not here. It has been moved, by someone or something. Explain, Ramiel.''
 
'''Mender Ramiel:'''
:''This Well was but one of many links to the source of the Well of Furies itself...''
 
::'''{{teal|Those who connect to the Well by any means are gifted as Incarnates, godlike beings.}}'''
 
::''([[Statesman]] is shown)''
 
::'''{{teal|Links to the Well appear throughout the universe, choosing the most powerful. It has many names and many forms.}}'''
 
::''([[Imperious]] is shown)''
 
::'''{{teal|The links are worthless to most unless the Well feels you are worthy.}}'''
 
::''([[Emperor Cole]] is shown)''
 
::'''{{teal|But it is neither good nor evil. It responds to power and will alone.}}'''
[[File:CutsceneRamiel2.jpg|300px|right|thumb|{{center|Incarnates, godlike beings...}}]]
::''([[Lord Recluse]] is shown)''
 
::'''{{teal|Your entire history with Incarnates is limited to one fraction of the Well, one minor aspect. I have seen so much more...}}'''
 
::''([[Reichsman]] is shown)''
 
'''Mender Silos:'''
:''Enough! It is not here, we must be on our way.''
 
'''Mender Ramiel:'''
:''I apologize, {{Character}}. It seems your journey to become an Incarnate shall be even longer than I thought...''
 
'''Mender Ramiel:'''
:''We must be off, see if you can find any traces left here of the Well. Whatever you find... it seems you will be taking the long path after all.''}}
 
''You've found something within the rubble!''
{{Mission Clue|Name=A Shard and a Note|Text=You find in the rubble a piece of paper wrapped around a shard. As you unwrap the paper and touch the shard, the artifact you obtained earlier evaporates into thin air. Moments later, you feel something inside of you change, as if the realm of your power has been broadened. Looking at the shard, you realize it must be a shard of the Well, and that your powers as an Incarnate have been unlocked. You notice the paper around the shard is actually... a letter. You read it over...
 
{{Character}}, I do not have much time to write. At this point in time, you are either well aware of myself and working with me, or you still have no idea who I am. The Well, as you see, is gone, and the agents of Ouroboros are aware of the other path into Cimerora. When I gave the crystal to the [[Midnight Squad|Midnighter's]], I imagined this day would come, though that matter is for another time. You have in your hands now an [[Incarnate Shard Component|Incarnate shard]]. It has no doubt opened your path into the powers of the Incarnate. This is one thing that both myself and the agents of Ouroboros share in common; the desire to see you maintain your freedom and grow in power.
 
I must go now, but before I do, I must deliver you a word of advice. You have no doubt heard the golden voice of the Well. Whatever you do, ''do not listen to it!'' It seeks only to control any that it can with the promise of power. Perhaps there is a way around it, but for now, its power must be used. Ironically, in all of this, Lord Recluse may be our greatest ally. He seeks a way to bypass the Well, while Statesman opts to try to stay out of the picture.
 
As always, seek me out in the [[Pillar of Ice and Flame|crystal of fire and ice]]. Or... depending on ''when'' you are reading this, you may have merely seen me minutes ago.}}
 
'''Debriefing'''
 
I can tell you managed to find something, {{Character}}. A shard, perhaps? I suppose it's lucky for us that one still exists, enough to awaken the power of the Incarnate for you.
 
I believe this course is for the best, really. Would you have wanted to gain all that power right away and lose complete control of yourself? Regardless, you are on the path now to gaining the ultimate power of the Incarnate. I will help you with whatever I can from Ouroboros. Your journey towards realizing your true potential will take you many places, but I must stay here to aid the Menders with other matters.
 
I do know much about the subject of Incarnates, should you have any questions. You can ask me about them whenever you wish.
 
{{BadgeBox|Alpha Unlocked}}
 
'''Other rewards'''
 
Other than the [[Alpha Unlocked Badge|Alpha Unlocked badge]], you will receive a random [[Enhancements#Single-Origin Enhancements|Single-Origin]] [[enhancement]] of your origin, plus one [[Incarnate Shard Component|Incarnate Shard]].


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
Line 1,026: Line 156:


== External Links ==
== External Links ==
* [http://goingrogue.na.cityofheroes.com/en/game-info/incarnates/overview.html Incarnate Overview] on [http://www.cityofheroes.com cityofheroes.com]
* [http://web.archive.org/web/20111201232329/http://goingrogue.na.cityofheroes.com/en/game-info/incarnates/overview.html Official Incarnate Overview]
* [http://goingrogue.na.cityofheroes.com/en/game-info/incarnates/lore.html Incarnate Lore] on [http://www.cityofheroes.com cityofheroes.com]
* [http://web.archive.org/web/20111201232324/http://goingrogue.na.cityofheroes.com/en/game-info/incarnates/lore.html Official Incarnate Lore]


[[Category:Lore]]
[[Category:Lore]]

Latest revision as of 20:59, 26 September 2021

Overview

Mender Ramiel
Mender Ramiel.jpg
Incarnate Lore Master
Zone Ouroboros
Coordinates (452, 665, -883)[Copy]
Level Range 50
Introduced By None, Mender Ramiel is an Unlockable Contact
Introduces None
Enemy Groups
Badges Badge Accolade AlphaSlot.png Alpha Unlocked
v • d • e

Mender Ramiel is a hero and villain contact in Ouroboros at coordinates (452, 665, -883)[Copy] . His level range is 50. Completing his arc is one way to unlock your Alpha Slot

Background

Description

  • Not much is known regarding Mender Ramiel, only that he is one of the few menders who has intimate knowledge regarding Incarnates and their abilities.
  • Mender Ramiel comes from a far future version of Ouroboros. In that future, he has seen the efforts of Mender Silos here in this time period have some real effect, bringing forth the attention of the power behind the Incarnates, the Well of the Furies. He has come from the far future to herald this event, and to possibly increase its impact in the future.

History

Mender Ramiel is the main character in the story Message from Mender Ramiel, where he travels from the future to speak with Mender Silos.

Introductions

Contact Unlocked With

Contact Introduces

  • None

Information

Incarnate Lore Master

Mender Ramiel is known for his knowledge of Incarnates and has recently arrived in Ouroboros. His true past is a mystery to everyone save Mender Silos, who seems to consider Ramiel an advisor of sorts.

Contact Unlocked

Mender Ramiel of Ouroboros has sent you a message through the time stream, requesting your presence in Ouroboros.

Initial Contact

Hello, Character, I am glad you received my message. I am Mender Ramiel, and I am here to help you on your path towards great power. There is much to do, perhaps too much in the time we are given. We must begin right away.

Not High Enough Level

There is much to do, Character, but I fear it is not yet time for you and I to begin our journey. I shall let you know when the time comes.

You must be level 50, have the Entrusted with the Secret badge, and have purchased Going Rogue to gain access Mender Ramiel's story arc.

Greeting

  • Let us move towards our destiny, Character.

Too Busy

Settle anything that you need to finish and then speak with me, Character.

No More Missions

There is much I know about Incarnates, Character. What questions do you have?

  • What is an Incarnate?
I am no expert but it seems that the Well of Furies is being directed to infuse its power into worthy individuals of this time period. It does not matter what your origin is, nor if you are hero, villain, vigilante, or rogue, it seems the most powerful people are being granted the ability to unlock their inner incarnate and gain new powers and abilities, strengthening them for some upcoming battle.
  • How do I strengthen my Incarnate abilities?
I have discussed this with several people of this time period. It seems that completing the toughest tasks this time period has to offer is the key to unlocking your Alpha abilities. Alpha abilities are the first Incarnate abilities anyone seems to be able to use. I would suggest forming a strong team and doing tasks for Lady Grey, Imperious, or perhaps raiding the crashed Rikti Mothership, assaulting a Cathedral of Pain, or defeating the latest incarnation of Hamidon. Those heroically inclined could assist Statesman or Dr. Kahn, and the villainous can work with Lord Recluse or Barracuda. As well, aiding a man named Apex or a robot named Tin Mage against the threat of Praetoria will also help unlock your abilities.
  • What is an Incarnate Slot?
The beings of this time have referred to their Alpha abilities fitting into an 'Alpha Slot'. I believe this is simply a way of saying that you can only have one Alpha ability active at a time, and therefore you must 'slot it' into your Alpha slot to make it the active, dominant, ability.
  • Are there more slots than just Alpha?
In my time, I have seen heroes and villains with slots they referred to as: Judgement, Interface, Lore, Destiny, Hybrid, Genesis, Stance, Vitae, and Omega. I believe it is only a matter of time before heroes and villains of this time can unlock these slots and abilities as well.
  • What is an Incarnate Ability?
An Incarnate ability is a power that you place into a slot.
To see your slot and your abilities, simply open your Powers Window and click the 'Incarnate Abilities' at the top of that window.
To slot in a new ability, double click it on the list to the right, this will place it into the appropriate slot. There is a cooldown after slotting an ability of 5 minutes. During this time you can not re-slot that same slot again.
You can have many powers at your disposal for a given slot, but only have one active at a time. The ability will be replaced with the new one, but you can still go back to the old one if you would like. It is not destroyed in the process.
  • What are Incarnate Components?
Incarnate components are used to construct new Incarnate abilities. There are several categories of components, Common, Uncommon, Rare, and Very Rare. Each Incarnate ability is built from this pool of components. Components are very personal and only work for the person who found them, therefore they can not be traded or sold. Apparently whoever is directing the Well of Furies believes you should have to work for your newfound power.
  • How do I get Incarnate Components?
You can gain components in the same fashion as you originally unlocked your Alpha slot. You can also earn sub-components from defeating powerful enemies, including other heroes and villains, which can then be combined into a Common component.
  • How do I create Incarnate Abilities?
There are three tabs in the Incarnate UI - Equip, Create, and Convert. Equip allows you to choose which Incarnate ability is currently slotted and view your progress towards unlocking slots. Create allows to to fashion and upgrade Incarnate abilities. Convert allows you to convert Incarnate Shards into other components, and upgrade components with Incarnate Shards.
  • How do I create more powerful Incarnate Abilities?
In order for you to create the 'Uncommon' abilities you must first have the Common ability related to that Uncommon one. For example, Cardiac Boost, a Common Alpha ability, is required to create Cardiac Core Boost. The crafting will also require Uncommon Incarnate components, which can only be created by converting Common components into what you need.
  • Who are you again?
My name is Mender Ramiel, and I am from a far future version of Ouroboros. In this future, I have seen the efforts of Mender Silos here in this time period have some real effect. The Coming Storm is weakened, and it seems that this is because of the powered beings of this time unlocking their inner Incarnate, the same power that fuels Statesman and Lord Recluse. I have traveled back to this time to inform Mender Silos of this.
  • I have another question.
Although I am a time traveler, my time is not infinite; what else can I answer for you?
  • Who is Mender Silos?
Mender Silos holds many secrets, and he likes to think his identity is one of them. Many have ventured that he is actually Lord Nemesis, and I can confirm that as one of his previous aliases.
But I must caution you, the Lord Nemesis of this time and Mender Silos may be the same person, but they are hundreds of thousands of years removed from one another. People change, and the Menders of Ouroboros follow a leader who knows that what he did in the past was wrong and is trying to correct those mistakes.
  • What is the Coming Storm?
Some things you will just have to learn for yourself. And besides, if we are successful here in Ouroboros, the Coming Storm may never come to pass.

Store

(Mender Ramiel does not sell enhancements.)

Story Arc

Power Overwhelming

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 6 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

Incarnate Shard

You received this Incarnate Shard during your travel to find the Well of the Furies in Cimerora. It reminds you of an experience you call...

Power Overwhelming

It all began when a man named Mender Ramiel requested an audience with you. When you went to see him, he explained that a version of you from the future implored him to return to this time to aid you. You looked into the crystal of fire and ice and saw an image of the future. You were all powerful and were able to easily bat away the most powerful beings that you know of without even a second notion. At the end, you told Mender Ramiel to return to the past to help change things, to help you gain your power sooner.

This led you down the path towards unlocking the power of the Incarnates. You discovered that the Well, the source of power for Incarnates, was able to control those who gained power too quickly from it. You gained an artifact from a man named Trapdoor which would allow you to begin this journey towards being an Incarnate.

You then fought against Hero 1 and discovered that many items currently within the world were links to the Well. Lady Grey warned you about gaining power from the Well and advised that you should gain this power slowly, or be consumed by it.

You then travelled to Cimerora to find the Well of the Furies. Ramiel spoke of a choice to be made between the quick and easy path or the long and hard one, but such a choice never presented itself. You arrived to find that the Well was gone. You looked around the area and found an Incarnate shard, which unlocked the artifact you recovered from Trapdoor, allowing you to begin to tap into your power as an Incarnate.

The words of Lady Grey remain in your mind, however, as you begin down this path. There is always the temptation to try to grow in power quickly, but to do so would mean losing your very being to the immense power that is the Well.

Part One: What Could Be

Briefing

I have seen Ouroboros, far, far in the future. You would barely recognize it, covered in flames as it was. The Storm was on all sides... And then... They simply moved on. Once we were crippled, we were beneath their notice. The mighty Ouroboros and Mender Silos reduced to an irrelevancy.

But then you appeared, full of the power of the Incarnates. That is why I am back this far, back farther than the ordinary laws of time would allow. You broke the laws to send me back. You told me to call you once I arrived and give you this.

Mender Ramiel pulls out a small crystal of ice and flame.

  • I wanted you to give me... a crystal of ice and flame?

Yes. In it is your memory of our first meeting together, when you came to Ouroboros and sent me here. Use the pillars here to experience it.

You will be as you were then, a mighty and terrible Incarnate, full with the fruits of the Well. I do not know how far in the future that will be... going back this far has disoriented me.

Once you are inside the memory, you will need to rescue me. Just as you did in my past.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Do not tarry, Character. We have a long road ahead of us.

A ruined future

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map INCARNATEARC DESTROYEDOUROBOROS.png
Map: INCARNATEARC_DESTROYEDOUROBOROS

The memory begins with a ruined Ouroboros and you entering it, fueled by the true power you've tapped through the Incarnates!

  • View your Future Memory
    • Rescue Mender Ramiel

You've watched your future self rescue Mender Ramiel.

Enemies

Time Echoes

(Archvillains)

Notable NPCs

Editor's Note:

For this mission only, Archvillains do not scale down into Elite Bosses regardless of difficulty settings

Temporary Powers

Upon entrance of mission, all player characters and related pets are subjected to the following temporary powers:

Power
Divine Core Oscillation

Add Proc: +Unresistable Damage
Incarnate

Your experience has interpreted this power as adding unresistable damage to most of your damaging attacks. How it actually works? You have no idea.

Power
Limitless Radial Freeeem

Self +Everything (Special)
Incarnate

The details of this ability are hazy, but from the perspective of this memory... you cannot even grasp the power it grants you.

Power
Paradox Core Eternity

Self Untouchable (Special)
Incarnate

It is difficult to sort out the details of this ability from the memory, but apparently it grants you a period of complete invulnerability immediately after a time travel event.

Time Echoes Dialogue
Briefing

NO! NO! Stay away! You mustn't... you are just illusions! You have no power over me!

  • I'm not with them. I'm here to help.
You... you're Character? What... the echoes, they didn't wipe you away?
  • I've become a lot more powerful since I was fighting the likes of them.
What... what do you want with me?
  • You're a Mender still, right? I need you to take a message back in time.
The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.
Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.
The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.
Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.
  • You're going to go back in time and do exactly as I say.
The future Incarnate version of yourself holds out the small crystal of ice and flame. This must be the same one Ramiel handed to you.
Deliver this to me in the past, along with the location of the Well of the Furies.
The Well of the Furies? The one on the isle of Praxidae? But how would that be of use...
Not the Fountain of Zeus. Just take the Crystal and I'll tell you what you need to know.
Mender Ramiel takes the crystal from the Future Incarnate you. The memory appears to end here.
  • They're just some chumps from a long time ago.
What... what do you want with me?
This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
  • Snap out of it! (Slap Mender Ramiel across the face)
You watch your future Incarnate self slap Mender Ramiel in the face, careful to control your powers so as to not cause Ramiel's head to pop off.
You... you're Character? What... the echoes, they didn't wipe you away?
  • I've become a lot more powerful since I was fighting the likes of them.
What... what do you want with me?
This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
  • They're just some chumps from a long time ago.
What... what do you want with me?
This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

Debriefing

So as you can tell... despite what Mender Silos may have believed in the past, the Well is no mere myth. And it is not merely contained to this world, or even to this dimension.

Your efforts here will attract the attention of the Well in time, but by then it may be too late. I was sent here to accelerate that event. But becoming an Incarnate is a long, arduous, and never-ending process. It is not some switch that you flick off or on.

Even so, every journey begins with a first step.


Part Two: The One That Got Away

Briefing

The power that you had in that timelime was immense, Character. We need to see about starting you down that path in order to combat what is to come.

Our best resource would be to consult with those Incarnates who currently exist among us. I believe you know of them quite well, correct? Statesman and Lord Recluse. Both of them would be the most 'well known' Incarnates.

  • Well known? There are others?

Of course. That is what I am hoping they will tell us. There are many other Incarnates out there aside from those two. Some more powerful than them, others much less. There are even some who do not realize that they have this connection to the Well.

Hero
Those who are connected, however, have an acute sense of others who share this bond. Go speak with Statesman to see if he will tell you what he knows regarding Incarnates. Just be warned, he may not be so willing to share his secrets, knowing that you may one day overshadow his current power.
Villain
Those who are connected, however, have an acute sense of others who share this bond. Go speak with Lord Recluse to see if he will tell you what they know regarding Incarnates. Just be warned, he may not be so willing to share his secrets, knowing that you may one day overshadow his current power.
Speak with Statesman/Lord Recluse

Unnecessary Solicitation

Hero
Have you spoken with Statesman yet?
Villain
Have you spoken with Lord Recluse yet?
Hero

Mission Objective(s)

  • Speak with Statesman

Briefing
Default

Character, what can I do for you today?

  • I'm here to find out about Incarnates, Statesman.

Character! Always good to see you. You fought well against Recluse and his plan to absorb the powers of everyone in the world. What can I do for someone such as you?

  • I'm here to find out about Incarnates, Statesman.

Character, what can I do for you today?

  • I'm here to find out about Incarnates, Statesman.

Character, it is... good to see you. You have been through a lot, haven't you? Serving Recluse... striking him down. We are still wary of you in the Phalanx, due to your actions against us. But, you have earned our respect for taking the fight to Recluse's door. What is it that you want from me today?

  • I'm here to find out about Incarnates, Statesman.

... Character. You had best choose your words very carefully. I am not in a mood to deal with your actions any further. Unless you are here to once again threaten the Freedom Phalanx?

  • Easy. I'm here to find out about Incarnates.

Incarnates? What do you want to know about them? It is common knowledge where the source of my power comes from. I'm afraid, however, that there's little else I could tell you.

  • I believe you might know about others becoming Incarnates.

Statesman pauses, looking you over.

... I can't divulge that information, Character. You have plenty of power already. Recluse has shown that even just one other powerful Incarnate is enough to throw the world into chaos. I can't risk -

Statesman begins to shake wildly, staggering backwards. After a few moments, he becomes still, breathing lightly.

  • ... Statesman?

No, not Statesman. You may know me as the Well of the Furies. I am speaking to you now through Statesman. You wish to earn my power, do you? To go beyond the limits of what your current peers are capable of? Statesman would see that no others achieve this, but I will not let his petty concerns come between you and your goals.

There is a man, his name is Trapdoor. Lord Recluse forced the powers of the Incarnate upon him, setting this man on a path that would eventually lead him to you. He had been captured by Arachnos, but escaped. In the process, he acquired a very powerful item, one that responds to those who have the power of the Incarnate.

However, his power is tainted, he is unable to get it to respond. You, however... you could obtain this item and begin your ascent to greatness.

  • Where is Trapdoor located?

He is located in a Council base, cowering in fear of his own destiny. If you go there, you can take the artifact from him and begin to move yourself forward. That is all I will say for now, Character. Until we meet again.

Statesman collapses in front of you, catching his breath. You should go speak with Mender Ramiel about what happened here, before moving to find Trapdoor.

Clue
Statesman and the Well

You went to speak with Statesman regarding Incarnates. Statesman was wary about giving you any information. Before you could try to convince him, he was taken over by a being claiming to be the Well of the Furies. It told you that you could find a way to begin your path as an Incarnate through an artifact being held by a man named Trapdoor.

  • (Leave)
Villain

Mission Objective(s)

  • Speak with Lord Recluse

Briefing
Default

Character. Why have you come to my doorstep? Do you wish to try to curry my favor? Or are you here to try to take my power from me?

  • Neither. I'm here to ask you about Incarnates.

Character, know that the only reason I allow you to enter this hall is because of the respect you command. You are outside of my control, ever since that battle you and I had in the future.

Why have you come here today?

  • It's regarding Incarnates.

Character. I do not say this to many often, but it is good to see you, given the aid you rendered regarding that situation with Reichsman. What do you wish to speak about?

  • I'm here to speak about Incarnates.

Ah, Character. You're a welcome sight here within Arachnos, since your attack on the very heart of the Freedom Phalanx itself! What is it that you want?

  • I want to speak with you about Incarnates.

Make this quick, Character. I have not so soon forgotten your role in stopping one of my largest plans to date.

  • I don't like this any more than you do. I'm here to talk to you about Incarnates.

Lord Recluse laughs, shaking his head.

You've come to ask me about Incarnates? I suppose it is well known where the source of my power comes from.

What did you seek to know, Character?

  • I'm here to find out the path towards becoming an Incarnate.

The path? There is no one true path, Character. Well... That isn't true. There are some ways towards becoming an Incarnate. Perhaps... You would like to offer yourself as an experiment to find out just -

Lord Recluse grips his chest as his eyes go wide.

Not... you...!

Recluse's head slumps forward, turning back and forth, as if struggling against something. After a moment, he calms and looks to you.

  • Recluse?

Recluse is not here at the moment. You are speaking to what many call the Well of the Furies. Recluse would never tell you what he secretly knows, what he secretly dreads. He is a... disappointment, really. He craves power, but seeks to gain it in every other method save for ones connected to myself. I can see in you this desire for power, however. You will never be able to gain it through Recluse.

That is why I am speaking to you today, Character. There are many who would stand in your way towards obtaining the power found within the Well. I would move to tip the scales in your favor. Do you know of a man named Trapdoor? He was part of Lord Recluse's plans to try to replicate my power without my actual power source. He succeeded... somewhat.

Trapdoor was recently a prisoner of Arachnos, but escaped. He tracked down an item that is connected to myself, an Incarnate artifact, if you will. He is aware of its power, but his twisted source of power will not trigger the artifact.

  • Where can I find Trapdoor?

He is hiding within a Council base, trying to escape the arm of Arachnos. If you are able to defeat him, you can claim his artifact for yourself. It will give you a link to the untapped power of the Well and begin your true rise to power. Until we meet again, Character...

The Well leaves Recluse's body. You decide it would be best to step away and speak to Mender Ramiel before pursuing the wishes of the Well.

Clue
Recluse and the Well

You went to speak with Lord Recluse regarding Incarnates. Recluse refused to give you any information and was then taken over by a being claiming to be the Well of the Furies. It told you that you could find a way to begin your path as an Incarnate through an artifact being held by a man named Trapdoor.

  • (Leave)
Speak with Mender Ramiel

Unnecessary Solicitation

Editor's Note:

As Mender Ramiel has not given you a means of contacting him without talking face to face, there is no Unnecessary Solicitation.

Mission Objective(s)

  • Speak with Mender Ramiel

Hero
Briefing

Character, were you able to get in touch with one of the Incarnates?

  • I spoke with Statesman for a moment, before the Well took him over.

Statesman was taken over by the Well? This is very interesting, Character. My studies into the Well have not covered something such as that. I will have to expand my horizons a bit more...

You said the Well told you about a man named Trapdoor who had an artifact on him? This may be the entrance we're looking for, Character. That artifact may respond to someone such as yourself, even if its full power is not fully realized. I would propose that you go to track down the artifact, while I do my research into the Well taking control over powerful Incarnates.

You'll only need to retrieve the artifact from Trapdoor. Whether or not that's through his demise is up to you.

  • Alright, I'll be back soon.
Villain
Briefing

Character, were you able to get in touch with one of the Incarnates?

  • I spoke with Recluse... and the Well.

The Well? It communicated directly to you?

You explain to Mender Ramiel what the Well told you, along with the fate of Trapdoor.

Interesting... I should study more of Recluse's motives. I do wonder if he would ever be able to properly replicate the power of the Well without requiring a connection to it...

Oh, yes, Trapdoor. It is a bit concerning that the Well was able to take over Recluse like that. It would be a shame for you to gain this power only to lose yourself, wouldn't it? I can look into the possible reasons why this happened to Recluse. For now, I would say it's safe enough to take the artifact from Trapdoor.

The artifact is one that does not sound like it contains a lot of power. In fact, I imagine it is stilll de-powered, waiting to be activated. The sooner you can retrieve it, the better. I should have more information for you regarding this power when you return.

  • Very well.
Track down Trapdoor

Unnecessary Solicitation

I'm making some strides on my end regarding the Well, Character.

Mission Objective(s)

You're teleported directly into the Council base. Trapdoor lurks somewhere within, holding the artifact that can unlock the powers of an Incarnate.

  • Track down Trapdoor
    • Face off against Trapdoor
    • Speak with Trapdoor

You've recovered the artifact from Trapdoor!

Enemies

Council
Arachnos

Notable NPCs

Editor's Note:

If struggling against Trapdoor's regeneration, one tactic is to use the lava on the ground floor to help drain his healthpoints by making him stand in it while fighting. The 'best' way is to defeat the Bifurcations whenever they are spawned, as they are the main cause of Trapdoor's high regeneration. Seize the moment to attack Trapdoor as much as possible before he respawns them.

Council Dialogue
Council/Arachnos Dialogue
Trapdoor Dialogue
Briefing

Please... just let me walk away! I didn't want any of this to happen, I just wanted to live a normal life!

  • Where is the artifact?

You see Trapdoor grasping the artifact, glaring at you.

You can't have it! Do you hear me?! This holds the key to untold power, power that I won't let fall into someone else's hands!

  • ... you want mercy and then you say something like that?

I can't go back to my normal life, don't you understand?! I need this to continue forward, to make my mark, to fight for my old life back! I won't let you take away this chance from me, do you hear me?!

  • I'll help you get your old life back. Just give me the artifact and you can begin.
You... you would do that? You're not just going to send me back to an Arachnos prison? Who could help me? Who would help me?
  • There are people out there who will help you. Trust me.
Trapdoor looks around suspiciously, then back to you.
... Alright. I'll give you the artifact. But mark my words, Character. If this is a trick... If no one will help me, I'll find you again!
Trapdoor extends his hand, holding the artifact in the palm of his hand.
  • (Take the artifact)
Originicon natural.png The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a mirror. It is big enough that you can just see your face within it.
Originicon magic.png The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a magic symbol, solid in your palm.
Originicon mutation.png The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a replica DNA strand, solid in your palm.
Originicon science.png The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a solid piece of paper riddled with numerous equations and formulas.
Originicon technology.png The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a schematic for some sort of device, though you're not sure what exactly this device is.
Clue
Redeemed Trapdoor

You chose to help Trapdoor redeem himself. He trusted enough in you to hand over the Incarnate artifact that was in his possession.

  • Leave
  • I don't have time for this. I'm taking this artifact, even if it's at the cost of your life!
Trapdoor prepares to fight you again, though it's obvious that he's in no shape to pose a challenge to you anymore.
  • (Finish off Trapdoor and take the artifact.)
Originicon natural.png You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a mirror. It is big enough that you can just see your face within it.
Originicon magic.png You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a magic symbol, solid in your palm.
Originicon mutation.png You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a replica DNA strand, solid in your palm.
Originicon science.png You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a solid piece of paper riddled with numerous equations and formulas.
Originicon technology.png You finish off Trapdoor and rip the artifact from his hands. The form of the artifact shifts as it rests in your hand for a few minutes before forming into a schematic for some sort of device, though you're not sure what exactly this device is.
Clue
Killed Trapdoor

You decided to kill Trapdoor, as it was obvious he was unwilling to give you his Incarnate artifact.

  • Leave
Trapdoor Dialogue

Debriefing

Editor's Note:

There is no Debriefing message. Mender Ramiel will prompt the player for his next mission.


Part Three: Consequences

Briefing

There is a woman in your time, her name is Lady Grey. You've heard of her, I presume? She is a very... knowledgeable woman. I do not quite know her entire background as of yet, but I do know she is aware of a very powerful Incarnate that exists, one other than Statesman or Recluse. She also should be able to answer the very important question regarding how the Well is able to take command over those who are Incarnates.

If you speak to her, I promise that you will be able to learn all that you need to regarding the situation with the Incarnates.

  • Is there anything else I need to know beforehand?

Just that her help may come at a price. Running Vanguard is not a simple matter, nor is having the knowledge that she does. No one ever said the power to become an Incarnate would be easy.

Speak with Lady Grey

Unnecessary Solicitation

Have you spoken with Lady Grey yet?

Mission Objective(s)

  • Speak with Lady Grey

Briefing
Default

Greetings, Character. You'll have to pardon me, there are many issues I must handle today. Please, let's make this quick.

  • I've been told you know something about Incarnates.

Character, it is a pleasure to see you again. Your work in aiding us against the Rikti and in reclaiming the Honoree was invaluable. What can I do for you today?

  • I've been told you know about Incarnates.

Lady Grey remains silent for a few moments.

... Yes, I do. You are interested in this path to power, are you? Then, perhaps we can help each other out.

We recently had an issue where a container holding a connection to the Well was stolen. We believe it was the work of a rogue Vanguard captain named Captain Holtz. He may have also been working with Crey.

Gaussian has been working on tracking down the captain, but we cannot risk sending in our own soldiers to track Holtz and the item down, given that Holtz had a very high reputation amongst his men. If you help us track down the container and the rogue captain, I will tell you everything you need to know. Are we agreed?

  • You've got yourself a deal.

Excellent. I must warn you, Character, this retrieval may be extremely difficult for you to do on your own. I would suggest gathering allies to help you in this task. When we speak again, it will be when you have been enlightened by the nature of Incarnates.

  • Very well.
Retrieve the stolen Incarnate container

Unnecessary Solicitation

Lady Grey has agreed to assist you? Excellent. Though, I wonder what exactly is in this container?

Mission Objective(s)

You enter the tunnels where this container has been stolen off to. Though, you have to wonder what exactly is being held in this container.

  • Retrieve the stolen Incarnate container
    • Search for the Container
      • Recover the Honoree
      • Defeat Captain Holtz

You find the remnants of the container.
You've recovered the Honoree and defeated Captain Holtz!

Enemies

Rikti
Crey

Notable NPCs

Rikti Dialogue
Crey Dialogue

Ambush! There will be four waves of ambushes by Rikti about halfway into the mission.

Infantrh: Intruders: Repel!
Infantry: Base: Compromised.
Infantry: Invaders: Crey?
Infantry: Mercy: show none!

You found the remnants of the container

Clue
Container Remnants

You look through the pile of rubble and find a large piece of metal. It's obvious that this was just one piece of a very large container. You're able to make out some words on one side of the container. 'Honoree Containment'. If this held the Honoree, then he must be somewhere deeper within the tunnels! But does this mean that he is an Incarnate?

Ambush! On approaching the room with the Weakened Honoree, there will be one ambush by Rikti.

Infantry: Honoree: Recover!
Captain Holtz Dialogue
Weakened Honoree Dialogue
Briefing

The Honoree lets out a few grunts before looking up to you. You expect his garbled Rikti talk, but instead hear a familiar voice.

I told you that we would meet again, Character. Your journey to find out more about the power of the Incarnates would eventually lead you to here.

  • You knew I would come here, after Trapdoor?
Redeemed Trapdoor
I did. I must say, I'm disappointed that you chose not to finish him off. He will come back to hunt you down, even if he is saved. But that is neither here nor there.
Killed Trapdoor
I did. I must say, it's good to see that you had the will to put Trapdoor down. It shows that you are willing to... do what it takes to achieve your power..

You must be wondering about the Honoree, or as he was once called, Hero 1. He is indeed an Incarnate, one just as powerful as Statesman or Lord Recluse. He did not know this, however. The sword that he found on that fateful day so long ago imbued him with tremendous powers, powers linked directly to me. Even without the sword in his possession, he is still linked to me, much like the the Lady who granted him the sword is.

As you can see, Character, the connections to my source are numerous and vast, given only to those who prove themselves worthy. Even now, in his deranged and destroyed state, Hero 1 is able to maintain some sort of control, however little it is, over himself. Few are able to do this against the Rikti, and for that, he has earned my respect.

  • What now? What about this artifact in my hand?

It is one that is unique to yourself and the source of your own power. You saw it shift, take form to your center, yes? It is much like Hero 1's Excalibur, or the Fountain that Statesman and Recluse drank from. But, you will need it to be powered. In its current state, it is useless to you. Once it is fully powered, however, it will allow you to be directly linked to myself, making you even more powerful than Hero 1, Statesman, or Recluse. Those three, they were simple men when they found my artifacts. Yes, they had proven themselves already, but their abilities were no where near your own.

Go to the ancient time of Cimerora, to one of the caverns off the shores. Deep within there, you will find one of my sources, one of my wells. When you come in contact with it, your artifact shall be fully powered, empowering you to unimaginable ends!

I look forward to seeing you very soon, Character. Yes.. soon, you and I shall be linked together...

The voice leaves the Honoree's body. It would be best to teleport him back to Vanguard now. In his current state, he will either be taken back by the Rikti and used for their own purposes, or turn against you if you were try to use him for your own ends.

  • (Send the Honoree back to Vanguard.)

You tag the Honoree with a beacon, teleporting him away.

Speak with Lady Grey

Unecessary Solicitation

Let's meet again once you've spoken with Lady Grey.

Mission Objective(s)

  • Speak with Lady Grey

Briefing

Thank you for your aid, Character. You no doubt know by now that the Honoree... that Hero 1 was an Incarnate. Did you hear the voice? The one from the Well?

  • Yes, I did. Can it control any Incarnate?

What I am about to tell you must come with no questions regarding how or why I have this knowledge.

The Well's control is very specific, Character, for there are two paths towards the path of becoming a fully powered Incarnate. The first is the fast path, one where the user is granted unimaginable power in a large amount. This is what happened to Statesman, Recluse, and Hero 1. Those who travel down this path develop a very close link to the Well very quickly. This is why the Well is able to control them.

The fate of those who travel down this path is one of constant servitude. Of the three, only Recluse and Statesman were truly aware of this. There is always the risk that the Well will seek to control them; this risk is increased when they try to increase their own power. In a sense, their freedom is confined. If they do not seek more power than what they've been given, they have a chance of fighting the Well's control. To seek more power from the Well itself... it would risk them seeing an end to their own selves.

This is why Statesman has always been fearful of trying to seek out more power, both for himself and others. Recluse, in all of his bids for power, has been trying to seek a way to destroy this link and still maintain his power. While Statesman remains in his place with the Well, Recluse seeks to defy it, to destroy it and earn his freedom.

  • You said there were two paths. What is the other?

The other is a slower path, gradually gaining more and more power from the Well. This is one that some have begun, but many of these people are not widely known. This path obviously takes much longer than the other, but those who follow this path have no risk of being controlled by the Well. The link of the Well to the person is not as strong as the previous path, meaning that one could tap into the limitless power of the Well without fear of being consumed by it.

However... there are still risks, even with this, but that is simply human nature. Once one gets a taste of the power of the Well, it may become increasingly difficult to resist the urge to try to gain more and more power as quickly as possible. To do this, however, would seal your fate to that of the Well's. This slower path is one that will ensure your freedom and the possibility of unending power, if you can resist its calling to let yourself be consumed by it.

  • Interesting... is there anything else?

That is all, Character. Thank you again for your help. And if you are choosing to walk down this path, be careful. You walk on the thin edge of a sword. The only thing that will prevent you from becoming lost within the Well is your own willpower.

Remember that always.

  • I will.

Debriefing

You've spoken with Lady Grey?

Hm... interesting. This confirms many of my theories, though I do wonder how the Lady knows this. If what the Well told you is true, then we have an exact location where you can fully power your artifact. Are you concerned, however, about losing yourself to the Well?

When we arrive, you will be able to make the choice of how you want to proceed. You can either allow a small portion of the the Well's power in to the artifact to empower it, preventing the Well from controlling you, or drown the artifact in the Well's power. The choice is yours, Character, though the latter is a fate that I, personally, would choose to avoid.


Finale: The Powers that Be

Briefing

With the location revealed to us, there is little else to do other than to go directly there. I've spoken with Mender Silos, who has requested to go along with us. I've had Mender Lazarus scan the time we are going to, however. He has found there are some... irregularities with it. Are you familiar with them, Character?

Large groups have been travelling into this ancient time of Cimerora... without the permission of Ouroboros. It is something we've become aware of and which Mender Lazarus is closely looking into. I bring this to your attention because we do not know if this time irregularities that we are seeing are around the Well, or are from those who are interfering with the past of Cimerora.

  • So we don't know who we might find near the Well?

Precisely. Silos and I will come in once the area is secured. We will send you first into the cave to analyze the situation.

I must warn you, anything could be down there, waiting to stop you and your attempt to become an Incarnate. When all is clear, that is when the choice will come down to you. You can either lose yourself to the Well and gain untold power, or train yourself, slowly, to control the power and maintain your own destiny.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I shall meet you there, Character, to see this occasion.

Mission Objective(s)

This cavern within Cimerora hums with great power.

  • Find the Well of the Furies
    • Defeat the Guardian of the Well
      • Proceed into the inner chamber
        • Look around for anything left over from the Well

You've recovered an Incarnate shard and have unlocked your potential as an Incarnate!

Enemies

Cimeroran Traitors
Time Echoes

Notable NPCs

Cimeroran Traitors Dialogue
Time Echoes Dialogue
Echo of Minos Dialogue
The Well has been moved...

Mender Silos: The Well is not here. It has been moved, by someone or something. Explain, Ramiel.
Mender Ramiel: This Well was but one of many links to the source of the Well of Furies itself...

Those who connect to the Well by any means are gifted as Incarnates, godlike beings.
(Statesman is shown)
Links to the Well appear throughout the universe, choosing the most powerful. It has many names and many forms.
(Imperious is shown)
The links are worthless to most unless the Well feels you are worthy.
(Emperor Cole is shown)
But it is neither good nor evil. It responds to power and will alone.
Incarnates, godlike beings...
(Lord Recluse is shown)
Your entire history with Incarnates is limited to one fraction of the Well, one minor aspect. I have seen so much more...
(Reichsman is shown)

Mender Silos: Enough! It is not here, we must be on our way.
Mender Ramiel: I apologize, Character. It seems your journey to become an Incarnate shall be even longer than I thought...
Mender Ramiel: We must be off, see if you can find any traces left here of the Well. Whatever you find... it seems you will be taking the long path after all.

You've found something within the rubble!

Clue
A Shard and a Note

You find in the rubble a piece of paper wrapped around a shard. As you unwrap the paper and touch the shard, the artifact you obtained earlier evaporates into thin air. Moments later, you feel something inside of you change, as if the realm of your power has been broadened. Looking at the shard, you realize it must be a shard of the Well, and that your powers as an Incarnate have been unlocked. You notice the paper around the shard is actually... a letter. You read it over...

Character, I do not have much time to write. At this point in time, you are either well aware of myself and working with me, or you still have no idea who I am. The Well, as you see, is gone, and the agents of Ouroboros are aware of the other path into Cimerora. When I gave the crystal to the Midnighter's, I imagined this day would come, though that matter is for another time. You have in your hands now an Incarnate shard. It has no doubt opened your path into the powers of the Incarnate. This is one thing that both myself and the agents of Ouroboros share in common; the desire to see you maintain your freedom and grow in power.

I must go now, but before I do, I must deliver you a word of advice. You have no doubt heard the golden voice of the Well. Whatever you do, do not listen to it! It seeks only to control any that it can with the promise of power. Perhaps there is a way around it, but for now, its power must be used. Ironically, in all of this, Lord Recluse may be our greatest ally. He seeks a way to bypass the Well, while Statesman opts to try to stay out of the picture.

As always, seek me out in the crystal of fire and ice. Or... depending on when you are reading this, you may have merely seen me minutes ago.

Debriefing

I can tell you managed to find something, Character. A shard, perhaps? I suppose it's lucky for us that one still exists, enough to awaken the power of the Incarnate for you.

I believe this course is for the best, really. Would you have wanted to gain all that power right away and lose complete control of yourself? Regardless, you are on the path now to gaining the ultimate power of the Incarnate. I will help you with whatever I can from Ouroboros. Your journey towards realizing your true potential will take you many places, but I must stay here to aid the Menders with other matters.

I do know much about the subject of Incarnates, should you have any questions. You can ask me about them whenever you wish.

Badge

You unlocked your Alpha Incarnate slot allowing you to create powerful new abilities that can be slotted there.

Other rewards

Other than the Alpha Unlocked badge, you will receive a random Single-Origin enhancement of your origin, plus one Incarnate Shard.


See Also

External Links

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