Shadowstar

Overview

Shadowstar
Warshade Facilitator
Zone	Atlas Park
Coordinates	(156, -784, -938)
Level Range	1-50
Introduced By	None
Introduces	Kip Cantorum
Enemy Groups	Circle of Thorns Clockwork Council Freakshow Hydra Outcasts Trolls Vahzilok

Shadowstar is a hero contact in Atlas Park at coordinates (156, -784, -938) Shadowstar is a Science origin contact. After the destruction of Galaxy City in Issue 21, Shadowstar was "rescued" and relocated to Atlas Park.

Introductions

Contact Introduced By

• None, Shadowstar is the initial contact for all Warshades.

Contact Introduces

Single contact option

+++ Missing Information +++

• Kip Cantorum

There's an engineer named Kip Cantorum who knows a lot about illegal technology. You should go see him; he might have some good leads for you on the Vahzilok zombies. Kip's business is in Galaxy City.

Kip should be able to help you.

Information

Warshade Facilitator

Long before the Peacebringers arrived on Earth, Nictus who sought to change their ways passed along the legend of the Shadowstar. It was said that one of the first to turn away from the path of the Nictus found refuge in a priestess of an ancient Egyptian moon-cult, and that the two of them discovered the path of the Warshade as a way to defend themselves from the Nictus that hunted them. The stories say that this same being has survived through the millennia, passed from mother to daughter along an unbroken family line stretching back to the old kingdoms of the Nile. Nictus who sought a new life would often go in search of the Shadowstar, hoping to learn the way of the Warshade from her.

It is not known if the Warshade who calls herself Shadowstar has been inspired by this myth to help her fellow Kheldians, or if the legend is true and she is the latest in an ancient line. Either way, Shadowstar works tirelessly to help Warshades find their true path and start their new lives. Though she has no official rank or power among her fellows, many Warshades defer to her, and the wise listen to her advice.

Not a Warshade

You must excuse us if we appear secretive, Character, but we Warshades are often looked upon with suspicion. Though we have turned away from a far darker path, those shadows still cling to us. It is only natural that we tend to keep to ourselves. Just remember that every Warshade is composed of both a Kheldian energy being and a human from this world. This place is our home, too, and we wish to do well by it.

Initial Contact

When a Nictus leaves that dark path behind, the universe itself sings with joy. I greet you on the first day of your new life.

Greeting

• I am always glad to see you, Character.
• I greet you, Character, and hope that you fare well.
• Blessings upon you, Character

Below Level Requirement

I have something, but I don't think you're powerful enough to handle it yet. Come back when your security level is higher, and I'll see what we can do. It is generally a good idea to check in with me about every 5 security levels or so. I may have heard of new developments in existing cases.

No More Missions

Missing No More Missions Dialogue

Store

• Inspirations (Luck, Catch a Breath, Enrage)

I remember when you came to us, you were so confused and uncertain. Now when I look in your eyes that uncertainty is gone. In it's place is a growing confidence that will see you through many dark days ahead. I will be glad to help you with anything you need.

• Inspirations (all)
• Level 1 Training Enhancements (100% base costs)

Missing Store Unlock Dialogue

Story Arcs

An Absence of Shadows (Level 5 - 10)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 12 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

An inscribed crystal

This strangely inscribed crystal was once used by the Circle of Thorns to hold the Kheldian half of a Warshade they abducted in the case called:

An Absence of Shadows

At the behest of Shadowstar, you set out to search for a fellow Warshade named Shadowcatcher who had gone missing while trying to foil a kidnapping by the Outcasts. You rescued the kidnapping victim, a man called Henry Meyers, who told you that Shadowcatcher had been struck down with bright beams of light from unknown attackers. This testimony seemed to implicate the Peacebringers.

With this information, you confronted Sunstorm, the leader of the Peacebringers. He denied any Peacebringer involvement, and told you that the Outcasts had kidnapped Henry Meyers on behalf of someone else. You defeated the Outcast boss Broken Claw, who told you that the Outcasts had been hired to kidnap Henry Meyers again to set up another Warshade for capture.

You walked into the old warehouse knowing that it was a trap, and discovered the truth: Henry Meyers was actually an acolyte of the Circle of Thorns! You defeated him, and found the location where more Circle acolytes waited to trade the Outcasts mystic artifacts for a captured Warshade.

You found many things in the caverns where the Circle of Thorns waited with the Outcasts' payment for helping to capture Warshades, but the most important was that the Circle's plan was to study captive Kheldians to improve their own possession techniques. They had picked the Warshades figuring that no one would miss them. The one thing you didn't find was a clue to Shadowcatcher's location. Things looked grim.

Sunstorm asked to speak with you again, you assumed to demand an apology now that the real abductors had been found. In fact, one of Sunstorm's contacts had seen the circle with someone who looked like Shadowcatcher. You checked it out, and managed to rescue Lars Mendelson, the human part of Shadowcatcher. The Circle had separated him from Altered Umbra, the Kheldian half of Shadowcatcher, and now holds it in the lost city of Oranbega.

You stormed the ruins of the Circle's lost city, defeating the researcher in charge of their Kheldian project and rescued Altered Umbra, the Kheldian half of Shadowcatcher.

Investigate the disappearance of Shadowcatcher

An Absence of Shadows
Part: One

Briefing

I have a very important matter that needs investigation Character, and I would like to ask you to attend to this grave mission. Recently, one of our fellow Warshades called Shadowcatcher has disappeared while investigating a routine kidnapping by the Outcasts. He has not been seen in any of the city hospitals, and none of the Freedom Phalanx I have spoken with have seen him during the course of their duties. It is as if he has disappeared from the city. I worry that something terrible has befallen him, and so would like to ask you to find our missing comrade, and bring him back safely through whatever troubles have come of him.

Mission Acceptance

I thank you Character. You do us great credit by your bravery. You should begin your investigation by completing the mission Shadowcatcher was on. The Outcasts have kidnapped a local businessman named Henry Meyers. Defeat all of the kidnappers, rescue Mr. Meyers, and see if he knows what may have become of Shadowcatcher.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Once you have defeated all of the Outcast kidnappers and rescued Henry Meyers, ask him if he knows anything about what may have befallen Shadowcatcher.

When a Nictus leaves that dark path behind, the universe itself sings with joy. I greet you, Character, on the first day of your new life.

Mission Objective(s)

The Outcasts don't like to be associated with run-down old offices like this, but an it makes a good place to stash a kidnap victim.

• Defeat all Outcast kidnappers
  • Rescue Henry Meyers

You rescued Henry Meyers, and learned that Shadowcatcher had been ambushed.

Enemies

Outcasts

Notable NPCs

• Henry Meyers (NPC hostage)

Lead Shocker

(before aggro): What do you mean, 'A second Warshade'?

(on aggro): The deal was for one of your kind. But I think I can parlay your defeat into a bonus.

'They attacked from nowhere!'

After you rescued Henry Meyers, he told you:

'Yeah, I saw your friend Shadowcatcher. He was just about to reach me, when they attacked from nowhere! There were all these bright beams of light, and I heard Shadowcatcher fall. When my sight came back, Shadowcatcher was gone. By then, the Outcasts had recovered and I was trapped again.'

Debriefing

An ambush? Shadowcatcher cut down by blinding flashes of light? I can think of only one explanation, but it is impossible. Sunstorm gave his word. He promised me that this would not occur. He promised that our truce would hold. We will have to see if he is keeping his assurance that we would not be attacked by Peacebringers, despite our Nictus histories. This is not over, Character. This has barely begun.

Confront Sunstorm with what you've learned.

An Absence of Shadows
Part: Two

Briefing

If there is any truth to Henry Meyer's story, then the Peacebringers are the ones responsible for Shadowcatcher's disappearance. When the Peacebringers arrived, I had feared that they would see no difference between us and the Nictus, eradicating us despite the fact that we have turned away from the spiral of destruction. But Sunstorm, their leader, was willing to believe in us. He promised that he would control the more zealous of the Peacebringers. Now, we must know if he was telling the truth. You must confront Sunstorm, and tell him what we have learned.

Mission Acceptance

I am not entirely certain which would be worse. If Sunstorm has gone back on his word, or if he cannot control the more zealous Peacebringers in his command. We will soon know if we are faced with an open war or a hidden assassin. I council you to be careful, Character. Be careful, and hope that we are wrong.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You must confront Sunstorm with what we have learned. Shadowcatcher's fate rests upon you.

All of our fates rest upon you.

Mission Objective(s)

• Confront Sunstorm

Sunstorm

Briefing

This is a grave accusation, and I would like to thank you for bringing it to me. Before we came to Earth, it would have been a likely scenario. When I was just the Kheldian Perihelion, I sought the destruction of all Nictus without reservation or regret. Thinking back, I probably slew some who were trying to change their path like you Warshades have. But I am both Perihelion and Officer Benjamin Carter now, and because of that, I regret my earlier lack of forgiveness.

There are still zealots in our ranks, but I know them, and I can control them. I can assure you that no Peacebringer was involved in the disappearance of Shadowcatcher. However, I may still be able to help you. Benjamin Carter still has friends on the police force, and they've heard that an Outcast boss called Broken Storm ordered that kidnapping, but that he was doing it for someone else.

I never met Shadowcatcher, but I have heard good things about him. I hope you find him alive.

Mission Objective(s)

Sunstorm's information allowed you to find Broken Storm with ease. Now, you just have to catch him.

• Defeat Broken Storm
  • Defeat Broken Storm & guards

You have defeated Broken Storm, and learned what he knew.

Enemies

Outcasts

Notable NPCs

• Broken Storm (Outcasts Lead Shocker)

Broken Storm

(on aggro): We bargained to take out a second Warshade, and here one is. Thanks, Character.

Shadowcatcher won't be the last

After his defeat, the outcast leader Broken Storm told you:

'It's just as well. I don't like this kind of work for hire stuff. We were being paid to set up those kidnappings. We were instructed to take Henry Meyers specifically, to make sure that word of his abduction was relayed to Shadowstar through her contacts, and to wait for a Warshade to come. I do not know why this was set up, or who wanted it done. But if you want to find out, I do know that we were paid to take Mr. Meyers again, and to follow the same plan. I'll even make it easy for all of us, and tell you where to go.'

Debriefing

This becomes stranger. Who could be paying the Outcasts? Why would they want to target us? And what makes poor Henry Meyer so important? We are left with many questions, and the only answers will come by walking into the Outcasts' trap.

Spring the Outcasts' Trap and attempt to rescue Henry Meyers again

An Absence of Shadows
Part: Three

Briefing

Through your diligent efforts, we are now closer to learning what has become of Shadowcatcher, and who is employing the Outcasts. Unfortunately, the only way to find out is to spring the Outcasts' trap, and attempt to rescue Henry Meyers again.

Mission Acceptance

It is certain that the Outcasts or whoever are employing them are preparing some vicious surprise to use against you, so I advice you to take care. I do not want you to disappear like Shadowcatcher has.

Unnecessary Solicitation

It is certain that the Outcasts or whoever are employing them are preparing some vicious surprise to use against you, so I advice you to take care. I do not want you to disappear like Shadowcatcher has.

Mission Objective(s)

You know that this old warehouse is a trap, but the only way to find Shadowcatcher is to spring it.

• Spring the Trap
  • Find Henry Meyers

You discovered that Henry Meyers was actually an acolyte of the Circle of Thorns, and defeated him.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Outcasts

Notable NPCs

• Henry Meyers (Circle of Thorns Madness Mage)

'Henry Meyers'

Before combat: "Character approaches. We'll be ready for the Warshade this time."
Combat starts: "Now my disguise is torn away to reveal my true power. You were a fool to come here, Character!"

A small scroll of vellum

You found this small scroll on the Circle of Thorns mage who called himself 'Henry Meyers' after you defeated him. It details the location where the Outcasts are to receive their payment for helping to set up the abduction of 'Henry Meyers' and help in capturing Warshades.

Debriefing

It is unbelievable, but now that we know the truth it makes sense. We assumed that Henry Meyers was a credible innocent caught up in this plan, when in fact he was a part of it. He lied to you when you rescued him to put you on the wrong track and help to distance us from the Peacebringers. Through your brave efforts, Mr. Meyers' deception has failed, but this is far from over.

Go to the caverns where the Circle awaits, and battle them for what information you can find

An Absence of Shadows
Part: Four

Briefing

The scroll you found on the Circle sorcerer who called himself 'Henry Meyers' tells us where the Circle are waiting to pay off the Outcasts for their assistance. It seems too much to hope that we might find Shadowcatcher there, but there may be answers, or a clue to his location. It is also the only lead we have. Therefore, you must go to the caverns where the Circle awaits, and battle them for what information you can find.

Mission Acceptance

You must search for information, but you must also make certain to defeat all of the Circle's mystics and creatures lurking in those caverns. If there is any information about Shadowcatcher's location or the motives for his abduction, we must not let the Circle know that we know, lest they obscure his location any more.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You must search for information, but you must also make certain to defeat all of the Circle's mystics and creatures lurking in those caverns to protect the fact that we know they are behind this.

Mission Objective(s)

The cool darkness of these caves harbors a forbidding sense of dread.

• Defeat all Circle in Caves
  • 2 pieces of information to find

You defeated the Circle of Thorns, and discovered that they were studying how Kheldians merge with or possess people.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Madness Mage

Your interference in our affairs ends here, Character. But don't worry. No one will miss a Warshade.

Strange barbed thorns

These large, barbed thorns look like they were cut from some giant demonic rose. Each is wrapped in silk and covered in strange magical writing, and feels warm to the touch. They are almost certainly of magical origin.

These must be what the Circle were planning to pay the Outcasts with. They'd be sure to fetch a good price with the artifact-trading Warriors of Talos Island, and help cement their alliance with the Outcasts.

Pages of notes

These notes appear to be part of a larger work in progress, titled 'On the attributes of Kheldian possession techniques'. It describes several theories about how the merger between Peacebringers, Warshades, Nictus, and humans all work. The aim of the work seems to be comparing them to other techniques of possession known to the Circle of Thorns in order to improve their own abilities.

Of the three Kheldian groups, the Circle has decided to target the Warshades. They cite the fact that Warshades have neither the support structure nor the allies of the Peacebringers and the Nictus, making them easier targets.

Debriefing

These notes you discovered are more vile than words can say! The Circle of Thorns wants to study us to improve their own techniques of possession? That alone is abhorrent, but that they seek to study we Warshades, the very ones who have turned our backs on the vile forced possessions of the Nictus compounds this horror. I weep to think of what Shadowcatcher has already been exposed to.

However, there is not much more we can do yet. We are out of leads now, and the Circle is unlikely to give us the clues we need. There must be a way, but I cannot see it yet.

Speak with Sunstorm

Speak with Sunstorm

An Absence of Shadows
Part: Five

Briefing

Sunstorm, the leader of the Peacebringers, has asked to speak with you. I don't know why, but it will likely be to demand an apology from both you and I for the accusations brought against him and his Peacebringers.

Mission Acceptance

If that is his request, it is a fair one. Do not let it give rise to anger. As the Circle rightly realized, we Warshades have few allies, and we cannot afford to make new foes.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Remember to hold yourself with pride no matter what. In turning from the Nictus path, you have already shown strength unequaled. Stand tall and unbent no matter what.

Mission Objective(s)

• Speak with Sunstorm

Sunstorm

Briefing

I thank you for coming to see me, Character. I know that relations between Peacebringers and Warshades are not always easy, but I am glad that we can speak.

I have a number of friends within the Paragon Police who give me information. One of them recently spotted several suspected Circle of Thorns Acolytes escorting a man to a private section of seaside parkland. The person they were escorting matches the description of Lars Mendelson, the human half of your missing Warshade Shadowcatcher. I'll give you all that I know. It may be a lead to help find your missing man.

And you can tell Shadowstar that I wouldn't ask her for an apology. Before we were Sunstorm, Benjamin Carter was a cop, remember? It was a logical accusation to make. I can't blame you for that.

Rescue Lars, stop ceremonies

Unnecessary Solicitation

You should act on Sunstorm's information immediately. If it's true, we may be able to finally rescue Shadowcatcher. Or part of him, at least.

Mission Objective(s)

The salt sea air carries the sounds of ominous chanting from somewhere in the preserve.

• Rescue Lars, stop ceremonies
  • Find Lars Mendelson, 4 rituals to stop

You rescued Lars Mendelson and disrupted the Circle's rituals. But Lars had terrible news to tell.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Lars Mendelson (NPC hostage)

Rituals

(before aggro): We strike down the hammer, we drive in the wedge!
(on aggro): You have interfered for the last time!

Lars Mendelson

Thank you, Character! I must tell you what they've done!

'I'm... I'm not Shadowcatcher anymore'

Lars Mendelson, the human part of the Warshade Shadowcatcher told you a harrowing tale after you rescued him from the Circle of Thorns:

'They caught me and took me to some city underground. They used their magic, and they pulled us apart. They pulled Altered Umbra out of Lars Mendelson, and trapped it in a crystal. The Kheldian is gone, and so is part of me. I can still feel Altered Umbra, my Kheldian half, out there somewhere. The rituals they're doing here will sever that connection forever. You've got to stop them! And you've got to rescue Altered Umbra! I know where he is. I wish I could help you, but I'm... I'm not Shadowcatcher anymore. I'm not sure I'm even Lars Mendelson.'

Debriefing

When Shadowcatcher went missing, I never imagined it would lead us to something like this. Lars will receive expert care. What has happened to him is horrible, but it can still be mended. If we can reunite him with Altered Umbra, then human and Kheldian can merge again, and heal as Shadowcatcher. From the description of the Circle's intentions, the only way that is even possible is your determined work.

I must send my thanks to Sunstorm, and my apologies as well for having so little faith in him.}}

Rescue Altered Umbra, the other half of Shadowcatcher

An Absence of Shadows
Part: Six

Briefing

Lars Mendelson thinks he knows where the Circle is holding the crystal with Altered Umbra in it. He's recovered enough that he's been able to provide enough detail to mount a rescue. Unfortunately, it is within the depths of a ruined sunken city, a place called Oranbega where the Circle of Thorns are strong. You have rescued half of Shadowcatcher. Now the time has come to finish this and save Altered Umbra as well.

Mission Acceptance

You must rescue Altered Umbra, but Lars also told us about the Circle researcher called Aeoch who was leading their project. You must defeat him as well to prevent the Circle from learning any more about our people to use in their own sick schemes.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You must rescue Altered Umbra, but Lars also told us about the Circle researcher called Aeoch who was leading their project. You must defeat him as well to prevent the Circle from learning any more about our people to use in their own sick schemes.

Mission Objective(s)

A vast and ruined metropolis spreads out before you.

• Defeat Aeoch and researchers
  • Find Altered Umbra

You rescued Altered Umbra from the Circle of Thorns, and defeated the Circle Sorcerer in charge of their research.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Researcher Aeoch (Circle of Thorns Madness Mage)

Researcher Aeoch

(on aggro): You shall not escape Oranbega alive!

A strangely inscribed crystal

This inscribed crystal has a single point of light deep within its perfectly carved surface. When you touch it, you feel the presence of the Kheldian Altered Umbra trapped within, full of nervousness and anxiety. You summon to mind the knowledge that Lars is safe and that the two will be reunited soon, and feel Altered Umbra calm down.

Debriefing

You have performed admirably, Character. I have spoken with MAGI, and they believe that they can free Altered Umbra from the crystal. Soon he and Lars Mendelson will reunite and be reformed as Shadowcatcher. The Circle's plans have been defeated, and I have organized some extra raids against the Outcasts to dissuade them from participating in this sort of mercenary work again.

We Warshades have already risked much, and have made many enemies. However, I do not despair at that thought. For when I see new Warshades like you rising among us, I know that any challenge will be faced and overcome.

Warshades and Peace (Level 10 - 15)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 13 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

A copy of Pe@c3w0rM.exe

You kept a copy of the computer disk that saved the lives of many Peacebringers and helped to bring the Peacebringers and Warshades together during a case you called:

Warshades and Peace

It all started when a very upset Shadowstar told you about a young reporter named Lillian Issan who had been investigating the Void Hunters. Miss Issan had gone missing while investigating the connection between the Void Hunters and the Trolls. You pressed the Trolls for information, and they told you that all gangs in the city had been offered a reward for her capture by the Council! They also said that the Outcasts had beaten them to her capture. Some defeated Outcasts confirmed it, and told you that a Lead Shocker named Broken Storm would be making the trade soon.

You struck the Outcast hideout and defeated Broken Storm, but the Outcasts had already traded Lillian to the Council. Then Shadowstar revealed the shocking truth: Lillian Issan was her daughter, and the next in line to become Shadowstar. The Council, however, didn't seem to know this fact.

You rescued Lillian from the Council and defeated her captors, but she told you some disturbing information: It seems that the Council had gathered a list of the secret identities of all the Peacebringers in the city. Several Peacebringer had already been marked as "Test Cases", no doubt for assassination.

You warned the Peacebringer coordinator Sunstorm about the threat to his people. He asked for your help to get the word out to the Peacebringers in the most danger. You went to warn a Peacebringer named Freeflight, but were too late. The Council had already cut her down.

Working together, a plan was developed to infiltrate the Council's database and confuse their records. The only thing missing was some vital codes to gain access to the Council's computer system. You captured a Council technician, solving that problem.

You infiltrated a Council computer base and introduced a subtle program into their systems, scrambling their list of known Peacebringers. Goodwill between Warshades and Peacebringers is at an all time high due to your selfless actions.

Shadowstar asked you to speak with her again when you were around Security level 15. She felt that there would be more to come, but wanted you to be strong enough to handle it.

Pry information about Lillian Issan from the Trolls

Warshades and Peace
Part: One

Briefing

Character, There is something I must talk to you about. Someone, a reporter, has gone missing. Her name is Lillian Issan, and I am very concerned for her health. She was investigating the Void Hunters by looking into their connection with other groups. When she disappeared, she was investigating the Trolls. They might know what happened to her. I would like you to force any information they have from them. You should be able to find them in Skyway City.

Mission Acceptance

I am very worried about Miss Issan, Character. I ask you to be quick in your search, and I hope that you can find what happened to her.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Miss Issan could be in serious trouble, Character. Please find her.

Mission Objective(s)

• Defeat 15 Trolls

You were able to persuade one of the defeated Trolls to talk.

Enemies

Trolls

It wuz da Outcasts!

After you defeated them, one of the Trolls was all too willing to talk:

'It not be us! It wuz da Outcasts! All gangs heard Council wanted girl captured, pay big reward! Money, free mercs, and quantie guns. But Outcasts got her before us. Now they gonna get reward.'

From the sound of things, Miss Issan may be in more trouble than you suspected. The Outcasts may know more. You can find some to interrogate in Steel Canyon.

Mission Objective(s)

• Defeat 15 Outcasts

One of the defeated Outcasts told you what you needed to know.

Yeah, we got that reporter

One of the Outcasts you defeated tried to taunt you, but gave away the information you needed.

'Yeah, we got that reporter. The Council is offering a big reward for her alive. With what they're willing to pay for her, we didn't ask why. Broken Storm is gonna make the trade real soon, now. Then we'll have all the mercs and quantum guns we need to take care of you alien freaks!'

Debriefing

So, Broken Storm has Lillian. No doubt he seeks revenge for the last time his schemes were foiled by a Warshade. I thank you, though I will soon need to ask a great favor of you once more.

Oh, Lillian, what did you get yourself into?

Rescue Lillian Issan from the Outcasts

Warshades and Peace
Part: Two

Briefing

The reporter Lillian Issan is still being held by the Outcasts. They plan to cash the bounty on her head to the Council, and take their payment in quantum guns and mercenaries. I know that I have already asked much of you, but I must now ask even more. I must ask you to rescue Lillian from the Outcasts before the Council take her.

Mission Acceptance

The Outcast leader, Broken Storm, has crossed paths with we Warshades before. He will no doubt be looking forward to a chance for revenge. Remember, however, that your goal is to find Lillian, or to find out what has become of her.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Forget Broken Storm, forget the Council. Just find Lillian, Character.

Mission Objective(s)

This place used to be a commodities broker. Now a much grimmer kind of deal is about to occur here.

• Locate Lillian Issan

You defeated the Council negotiators, but it was too late. The Council has already taken the reporter Lillian Issan captive!

Enemies

Council

Outcasts

Notable NPCs

• Broken Storm (Outcasts Lead Shocker)

Random Minion

(on aggro): Character? It's one of them Warshades!

Broken Storm

(before aggro): Character, huh? Well, that's two with one lightning bolt.
(on aggro): I've been waiting for this, Character!

Contract Negotiation

(before aggro)
Nebula Elite Adjutant: We'll take care of Character. Watch.
Scorcher: You said we'd get 6 cases of quantum guns for the reporter.

(on aggro):
Nebula Elite Adjutant: Council! To the attack!
Scorcher: You led Character right to us with your incompetence. The deal has changed.

The high cost of journalism

You recovered this contract for the bounty on Lillian Issan's kidnapping from the Outcast leader Broken Storm after you defeated him. It says that Miss Issan is wanted for prying into Council operations and spying on Void Hunter activity, and places a sizable bounty in quantum weapons and free use of Void Hunter mercenaries in exchange for her capture.

She saw something she shouldn't have

After you defeated them, you were able to persuade one of the Council troops to tell you what you wanted to know:

'The reporter made herself a target. She saw something she shouldn't have while she was prying into our business. It was our mistake that we never figured Issan would have friends like... you. It doesn't matter. The deal is done, and she's already enjoying our hospitality. Archon Conway has her now, and you'll never see her again!'

Debriefing

They already have her? They must not know who she is, or else Arakhn would have contacted me to gloat. This Archon Conway must not know the truth. You have my thanks for even going this far, Character, but I will have to ask you for more help. I cannot make a move to save Lillian Issan from the Council myself lest I give away her secret and put her in further danger. You see, Lillian Issan is my daughter, and the next in line to become Shadowstar.

Rescue Shadowstar's daughter, Lillian Issan, from the Council

Warshades and Peace
Part: Three

Briefing

My daughter, Lillian Issan, has been taken captive by the Council. She was investigating the Void Hunters, and the Council took notice. Fortunately, it seems that they do not know that Lillian is my daughter, and this gives us a chance to rescue her. I cannot act myself, or they might suspect her connection with me, and she would never be safe again. So I must again ask you for help, Character. I must ask you to rescue my daughter from the Council.

Mission Acceptance

From the Council agents you captured, we were able to learn where Lillian is being kept, and the name of the base's leader. Rescuing Lillian is my top priority, but you'll also need to make sure that nothing that could prove her true identity remains behind. To do that, you'll also need to access their computer systems, and defeat the base leader, Archon Conway.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Rescuing Lillian is the top priority, but you'll also need to make sure that nothing that could prove her true identity remains behind. To do that, you'll also need to access their computer systems, and defeat the base leader, Archon Conway.

Mission Objective(s)

Lilian Issan's life now rests on your actions. Shadowstar awaits your return, and word of her daughter's fate.

• Defeat Conway and his men
  • Find Lillian Issan
  • Erase Files

You rescued Lillian Issan from Archon Conway, and found some menacing information.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Lillian Issan (NPC Hostage)
• Archon Conway (Council Nebula Elite Archon)

Random Minion Chatter 1

(before aggro): Reporting in. Sector Clear.
(on aggro): It's Character!

Random Minion Chatter 2

(before aggro): No security breach detected.
(on aggro): We have a security breach!

Lillian Issan

(after rescue): Did my mother send you? Anyway, I've found out something important!

Archon Conway

(on aggro): Lillian Issan will be tried for her crimes against the Council!

Confirmed enemies list

You found a link to this file attached to an email on a Council computer. It's a complete list of every Peacebringer in Paragon City. Along with their name and power level, it also lists their human identity. With this information in the Council's hands, no Peacebringer in Paragon City is safe.

Several Peacebringers have been singled out as 'Test Scenarios'. Whatever that means, it can't be good.

It will be mass murder!

Lillian Issan had some important information for you once you rescued her from the Council:

'The rescue was right on time, but the danger I was in was a small price for what I found out. I was investigating the Void Hunters when I found out that they're being mobilized for a major operation. I found out that the Council got a list of all the Peacebringers from a group of renegades they were working with. They're going to hunt them down in their civilian identities! It'll be mass murder! We'll have to warn them, but I just don't know how to stop it.'

Debriefing

My daughter is safe, thanks to you, and for that I am forever in your debt. However, what she found out is disturbing indeed. The Council now knows the identity of every Peacebringer in the city, and plans to target them. If the Peacebringers fall, we will soon follow. But how to stop them?

Take information to Sunstorm

Take information to Sunstorm

Warshades and Peace
Part: Four

Briefing

The information my daughter uncovered is important beyond words. If the Council knows the true identities of all the Peacebringers, they are certain to draw plans against them. Sunstorm must be given this information at once.

Mission Acceptance

Sunstorm and his Peacebringers have been very fair to us. We should do our best to assist them in this crisis. Not to mention that if the Council should eliminate them, our own prospects become much more dire.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Sunstorm and his Peacebringers have been very fair to us. We should do our best to assist them in this crisis. Not to mention that if the Council should eliminate them, our own prospects become much more dire.

Mission Objective(s)

• Take information to Sunstorm

Sunstorm

Briefing

Thank you for bringing this to us, Character. Let me see the list.

This is bad. They're actually missing some of our newer Peacebringers, but this is still too much information. We had several Peacebringers go renegade and side with the Council recently. They planned to start a war between us and the Warshades. We put a stop to that, but it looks like they got more than we thought from the rogues. This list would fit what they would have known.

This section of 'Test Scenarios' is really troubling. They're probably targets for test assassinations. I can pull in everyone at risk, but some of them are in the field, and I don't know if we have enough people. Character, I'm going to need your help. Could you warn one of the at-risk Peacebringers? Her name is Freeflight, and she's investigating the Vahzilok. According to the list, she's one of the prime test targets.

Find and warn Freeflight

Unnecessary Solicitation

Sunstorm sends his thanks for the warning. He and I will be working together on a plan to stop this. In the meantime, you must warn Freeflight that she's in danger.

Mission Objective(s)

Freeflight went into these caves to investigate a Vahzilok missing persons case.

• Find and warn Freeflight
  • Find Hostage
  • Find Freeflight

You were too late. Freeflight had already been killed by agents of the Council.

Enemies

Council

Vahzilok

Negotiators

(on aggro)
Mortificator: Character! Just what we need for testing! Attack!
Council Negotiator: You can repay us by telling me all about how these Nictus are created.

Hostage

(after rescue): There were assassins. They cut Freeflight down right in front of me.

Nebula Archon

(on aggro): Fine. I'll handle this myself.

Freeflight - fallen

When you went to try and warn Freeflight, you were too late. Freeflight was killed by what appears to be Nictus powers.

Debriefing

Do not feel that Freeflight's death was your fault. Many more would have died without your work, and my daughter would be at the mercy of the Council. I have been speaking to Sunstorm, and we have been developing a plan to handle this situation. We will likely need to call on you again to help implement it.

Help confound the Council

Warshades and Peace
Part: Five

Briefing

I have been speaking with Sunstorm, and we've developed a plan to counter the Council's list of known Peacebringers. The problem is that none of his Peacebringers will be able to carry it out. They're all either too well known to the Council, or not powerful enough to accomplish the task. Therefore, I am asking you for your help to confound the Council.

Mission Acceptance

The plan is in two parts. First, we need you to capture a specific Council computer engineer, a man named Ernie Stover. He's currently examining a potential site for a new Council base beyond Boomtown. Stover has access to the Council database, and can provide us with the access we'll need for the next part of the plan. Take the train to the area where he is, and search for him there.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You need to capture Lt. Ernie Stover, a Council computer scientist. Take the train to the area, and search for him there.

Mission Objective(s)

This section of the city is still in ruins from the war. The perfect place for the Council to hide a new facility.

• Capture Lt. Ernie Stover
  • Capture Lt. Ernie Stover

You successfully captured Lt. Ernie Stover, the Council Computer Technician.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Lt. Ernie Stover (Council Nebula Elite Archon)

Lt. Ernie Stover

(before aggro): If I'm captured, it could compromise our entire network. You have to get me to safety!
(on aggro): It's a Hero! Cover me, you fools!

Debriefing

With Ernie Stover in custody, we should be able to get access to the Council's database until they can change their encryption codes. It will be a short window of opportunity, but that should still be enough time. Tell me when you're ready, Character, and we shall put an end to the Council's murderous plans.

Infiltrate a Council base and run the program

Warshades and Peace
Part: Six

Briefing

Excellent work again on the capture of Lt. Stover. He has been most cooperative in exchange for a reduced prison sentence. Using his information and the hard work of SERAPH's computer scientists, we are now ready. We need you to infiltrate a Council computer center and run the program we've created on their database server. It will infiltrate their network, and radically alter their list of Peacebringers. Hundreds of superheroes, policemen and city workers have volunteered to be placed on the list. The Council will know that the list was altered, but with so many false matches, they won't know who to target. All we need is a brave Warshade to go in and run the program.

Mission Acceptance

In addition to running the program on the database server, you'll also need to destroy several back-up computers that contain copies of the database, and are not on the Council's network. There should be 4 of those. When all of that is done, the threat will be over.

Unnecessary Solicitation

In addition to running the program on the database server, you'll also need to destroy several back-up computers that contain copies of the database, and are not on the Council's network. There should be 4 of those. When all of that is done, the threat will be over.

Pe@c3w0rM.exe

This disk contains a powerful program designed to over-write certain sections of the Council's database, messing up their list of Peacebringers.

Mission Objective(s)

This hidden Council Computer facility ties together several parts of their network.

• Run program on database
  • Modify Computer
  • 4 back-ups to destroy

You modified the Council's database, irretrievably confusing their list of Peacebringers.

Enemies

Council

Keep A Back-up

(before aggro)
Vortex Marksman: This is what happens when you don't keep a physical back-up.
Penumbra Buckshot: This facility IS the physical back-up.

(on aggro)
Vortex Marksman: I told them we needed to out-source this!

Debriefing

It's done. The Council's plans are in disarray. Communication between Warshades and Peacebringers is at an all-time high, and my daughter is safe, at least until she finds some new way to get herself into trouble. You have performed admirably, and I am in your debt. There will be much that will come out of this incident. I have spoken with Sunstorm, and we agree that the dangers facing us must be met together. Any remaining enmities between our groups must end. From this point forward, we shall battle together. You will still get missions from me, but both Warshades and Peacebringers will work towards common ends from this day forward.

Still, the danger has not passed, and I sense that we will face greater threats soon. Speak with me again when you are strong enough, probably when you are around Security Level 15. There will no doubt be more battles for you then.

Shadow Science (Level 15 - 20)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 22 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

An inert N-Fragment

This strange souvenir was once part of a Nictus, but has been rendered inert while being studied by SERAPH. You keep it as a reminder of the lengths the Nictus will go to, and how one brave man's escape uncovered the secrets of the Council's

Shadow Science

It began when you were told that the Council was conducting a manhunt near the Hapatak River. You went to investigate and found Joshua Lucietto, who'd been held prisoner by the Council and used in sick human experiments with Nictus bond-forming techniques. Lucietto had forced a Nictus possessor out, and made a run for freedom.

Joshua Lucietto's harrowing tale of human experimentation led you to a hidden facility where other people were being kept in a weakened state so that damaged or partially dissipated Nictus could possess them without fear of being forced out. You freed the captives, ending their long nightmare.

The stories of the captives and the documents you recovered led you to an abandoned Council base that had once belonged to Requiem's old organization, but had been used by Arakhn for Nictus experiments. You found old documents that showed just how far Arakhn had progressed with her research into using pieces of decayed Nictus, called 'N-fragments', years ago.

The information you recovered led you to another base, where you freed more captives and captured several N-fragments.

You pressed the attack as the Council began to move the last of its N-Fragment research out of the city. You learned about a series of tunnels where the Trolls were helping the Council move their research out of the city. You struck during this window of vulnerability, capturing documents that spoke about how N-Fragments were being used to make Galaxy troops, Void Hunters, and possible even the Warwolves.

The documents you found led to one final location: the last of the people held captive by the Council for human experimentation. You stormed the Council base, and liberated the last of the captives. The Council's research had been driven off-shore and you have uncovered much about where the Council's Galaxy troops and Void Hunter mercenaries had come from. The real victory, though, was rescuing all of the people who had once been victims of the Council's Shadow Science.

Still, there is much yet to learn about the Nictus and the Council. You were asked to come back around Security Level 20, so that you'd be powerful enough to survive the investigation.

Find the Council escapee

Shadow Science
Part: One

Briefing

The Council has begun a large-scale excursive north of the city along the Hapatak river. They appear to be conducting a manhunt, and this matches with reports from our sources on Striga Island that a prisoner escaped from a Council lab, and may have escaped the island. If this man has escaped from the Council, it is important that we find him before they can recapture him. I would like to ask you to take charge of locating him before the Council can take him back to Striga Island.

Mission Acceptance

Our sources say that this man may be one Joshua Lucietto, an insurance adjuster thought lost after the Rikti War when he went to examine a ruined building, and may have run into an exposed Council base. If he's been in the Council's hands since then, I cannot imagine what he's had to endure. I trust that you'll be able to find him and bring him back safely.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Joshua Lucietto is depending on you to bring him back to safety before the Council can capture him again.

Mission Objective(s)

The Hapatak river is a tributary of Lake Salamanca, north of Paragon City. Unfortunately, the Council troops probably aren't here for the excellent fishing

• Rescue Joshua Lucietto
  • Find Joshua Lucietto

You rescued Joshua Lucietto from the Council

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Joshua Lucietto (NPC Hostage)

Joshua Lucietto

(when rescued): Thank you, thank you. All that I've been through. All that I've seen. You've got to know!

'You can force the horrors out...'

After you rescued Joshua Lucietto, he told you his harrowing tale:

'I was there for years. Not just me, there were others. They used us in experiments. There were these creatures, living shadows. They called them Nictus. The things would try to bind with you, you could feel them in your mind. They'd take you over, but you could force them out. They'd whisper in your head, twist your thoughts 'till you didn't want it out, 'till you joined with it willingly. They're very good at that. But I forced it out. If they don't undermine your mind, if you stay determined, you can force the horrors out. Now I'm free. There were others, there still are others. But I'm free.

Thank you, hero. I'm afraid I don't know your name, but thank you.'

Debriefing

Mr. Lucietto is receiving proper medical care. From his story it sounds like the Council have been using captives for human experiments with Nictus bonding techniques. Normally, as he said, a person who doesn't want to be possessed by a Nictus can force it out. If they are experimenting with new techniques, or other methods, this could be very important. Character, I think it's very important that we follow up on this. Speak with me soon, I have a feeling that this is the start of a longer investigation.

Rescue the test subjects from the Council

Shadow Science
Part: Two

Briefing

Joshua Lucietto, the man you rescued, has been able to tell us about a hidden facility in Boomtown where the Council is holding other captives for their human experiments. There is no telling what horrors these people have had to endure, and it is vital that they're freed before the Council can move them. Since you performed so admirably in Mr. Lucietto's rescue, I thought that you might like to lead the operation.

Mission Acceptance

Your first priority is to rescue those people. It will also be important to scout the base for files or computers that might help us find another base where they could be conducting these experiments.

Nictus science has been depraved ever since it first transformed a Kheldian into a life-consuming horror. It should be no surprise that they've begun to experiment on sentient beings, but I am sickened just the same.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Your first priority is to rescue those people. It will also be important to scout the base for files or computers that might help us find another base where they could be conducting these experiments.

Mission Objective(s)

The wreckage of this abandoned office building hides an entrance to a hidden Council facility.

• Rescue the captives
  • 2 clues to find
  • 4 captives to free

You rescued the captives, and discovered some disturbing information.

Enemies

Council

Patrol Chatter 1

Penumbra Elite Fire (before aggro): All prisoners secure.

Penumbra Elite Fire (on aggro): It's Character! Sound the alarm!

Patrol Chatter 2

Nebula Cor Leonis Fire (before aggro): I'm not seeing any sign of that security breach, over.

Nebula Cor Leonis Fire (on aggro): Control! I've spotted intruders!

Captive 1

(on rescue): Someone found us!

Captive 2

(on rescue): I knew we'd be found someday.

Captive 3

(on rescue): I've been down here so long!

Captive 4

(on rescue): The nightmare's finally over.

"They kept us weak..."

One of the captives you freed told you:

'I've been in here so long. They keep us weak so we put up less resistance. Those things, those Nictus, they need to be inside a person to live. They get weaker and weaker outside a host. If you're strong and don't want to merge with it, you can force it out. So they kept us weak. They used us like hospital beds. Weakened ones, Nictus that had been traveling between worlds, they'd force them into us because we were too weak to force them out until they could get strong again.'

They talk to you in your head

One of the captives you rescued told you:

'Those things, those Nictus, they jump inside you and try to merge with you. You can fight them off if you're strong enough, but the whole time they'll be talking to you. They'll promise you everything. They'll pick through your mind and find every time someone did you wrong, then tell you how they'll help to fix it. They seduce you with power, and tempt you until you don't want them to leave. Then you join with it. Then you become one of them. I've seen it happen. I've seen it happen too many times.'

Order for transfer

You found this series of transfer orders among some Council files. According to them, they've been rotating captives in and out of this for years. From the notes on the orders, it seems like they were keeping people here on low rations, trying to keep them weak, but alive. The only transfers out of the base are to an experimental facility. The rest are marked with the ominous phrase 'Will subverted. Integration successful.'

A report to Arakhn

This is a report from the lead guard at the base to someone called 'Arakhn'. Part of it reads: 'It is not mine to question your judgment, My Lady, but why are we still performing these tests? Even weakened, captives resist being hosts to a Nictus, often to the bitter end. I know that the Nictus we work with are weakened from their long journey, but surely there is already enough experimental data. I know that there are many volunteers within the ranks waiting for the opportunity that's being wasted on these wretches. I apologize if I'm out of line, but I feel it must be said.

Also, in response to your concern, we have had no contact with any of Requiem's toadies. We will alert you immediately if that should change.'

Debriefing

What you found in that place sickens me, Character. Nictus can't force a permanent possession on someone, and no Kheldian can survive forever outside a host. But to keep people captive and weakened so that Nictus can forcibly posses them long enough to recover their strength? It's depraved. We can just hope that what you found will help us free some of the other people who've been held by these monsters.

Investigate the old lab and search it for information

Shadow Science
Part: Three

Briefing

The captives you rescued and the documents you recovered have allowed us to find the location of an old research lab. It used to belong to Requiem's old organization, but from the records you found it seems that Arakhn forced him to let her use it for a time even before the change-over. It hasn't been used in years, but there could still be valuable information at the lab that could tell us more about what the Council has been working on. I'd like you to investigate the lab, and search it for information.

Mission Acceptance

We don't know what you'll find down there, but the important thing is to look for some information about what the Council has been experimenting with. The first Nictus were created by unethical experiments. Who knows what Arakhn's been working on with the scientific resources of the Council under her control.

Unnecessary Solicitation

We don't know what you'll find down there, but the important thing is to look for some information about what the Council has been experimenting with.

Mission Objective(s)

Something about this place makes your skin crawl.

• Search base for information
  • 3 Clues to find
  • 2 Keys to find

You found some important information in the base, especially that Requiem is also investigating Arakhn's experiments.

Enemies

Council

Hydra

Vahzilok

Notable NPCs

• Penumbra Archon (Boss)

Mortificator

(before aggro): This place could do nicely for us.
(on aggro): No! This is our place now! OUR PLACE!

We can settle this later!

(before aggro):
Reaper: We can settle this later! To the attack!
Penumbra Archon: We're here on Requiem's orders. You'd best leave if you know what's good for you.

(on aggro):
Reaper: Is that a Kheldian? I wonder what their innards are like.
Penumbra Archon: We're doctors. We can decide what's good for us.

An ooze-covered pass-card

You recovered this pass card from a slime monster. It's covered in a sticky gelatinous ooze.

A spattered pass-card

You found this pass-card on a Vahzilok. You really don't want to know what it's spattered with.

Old transfer orders

These yellowing forms detail movement of something called 'N-Fragments' to another research facility. The forms are dated several years ago, but they could still be vital information.

Orders from Requiem

These orders have been type-written on Requiem's personal letterhead:

'Search this place from top to bottom for any remaining traces of Arakhn's research. We must know how she is creating her Galaxy troops. Brook no interference in your task. Remember that this was our base before the Center forced us to lend it to Arakhn. It was tunneled by Vandal's machines, stocked to Nosferatu's orders and protected by our brave soldiers.

Still, exercise caution. Arakhn has the Center's ear, and unlike me, she is Nictus first and Council a distant second. No doubt the Center has been influenced by her claims over the years, and now he lets her do whatever she wants.'

Nictus Decay Salvage: A Report

You found this computer report on a dis-used mainframe. Skimming over it, you see:

'A Nictus that has been starved of life energy for long enough or that has sustained enough damage in its natural form will begin to decay. It will grow weaker and weaker until it can no longer maintain a cohesive negative-energy form, and will begin to dissipate. Usually, it will no longer have the strength to possess all but the most weak-willed host, and thus will begin a downward spiral leading to its final dissipation.

We have discovered that it is also possible to force a dissipating Nictus to break apart multiple smaller pieces, forming Nictus Fragments. These can then be sustained with a controlled flow of energy. We are now researching the effects of implanting these fragments into human test subjects. You will also note that our early research indicates that it may be possible to harvest fragments from a healthy Nictus without permanent harm. We hope to soon have a technology that can match Requiem's, or even surpass it.'

The dates of this report are already several years old. There's no telling how much farther the Council's come since then.

Debriefing

The more I find out about these depraved experiments, the worse I feel to be a Kheldian. These Nictus Fragments are monstrous, but I'm afraid that we may know what they were able to create with them. Arakhn has lost her mind. It seems that even Requiem thinks so, but I doubt he'd do anything we'd like if he got the same technology. I'll see what we can glean from the information you found. It might help lead us to more captives, and deeper into Arakhn's research.

Strike the Council research base

Shadow Science
Part: Four

Briefing

All of the information you gathered at the abandoned lab along with the information from the captives you've rescued has revealed the location of what we think is a current research base. They will likely become aware of their vulnerability soon, so we must take this moment to strike. I naturally thought you might want to take this base out, considering your involvement in the case.

Mission Acceptance

If the information we have is right, there will be plenty for you to do. First off, we believe that there may be one or more captives being held there you must rescue. There will also no doubt be much useful information to find. In addition, the base commander and his staff must be dealt with, or he'll be able to raise an alarm. And finally, there may be actual Nictus Fragments at this facility. You must take them out of the Council's hands.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I know you have a lot to handle, but I'm sure you'll be able to take care of it.

Mission Objective(s)

The facade and records may seem legitimate, but this place is crawling with Council troops.

• Raid Council base
  • Find info
  • N-Fragments
  • 3 Captives
  • Defeat Tanner

You have finished the raid on the research base.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Tanner (Council Nebula Elite Archon)

Patrol

Nebula Cor Leonis Fire (before aggro): This is patrol reporting in. All clear.
Nebula Cor Leonis Fire (on aggro): Intruder! Attack!

Captives

(on rescue): Character! You've saved us!

Archon Tanner

(before aggro): Arakhn will have my head if we lose this place.
(on aggro): My base will not fall to the likes of you!

A memo

This memo is written on Council letterhead. It warns:

'To: Archon Tanner
RE: Requiem

Tanner, Keep an eye out for infiltrators from Requiem. He's been trying to pry into all the secrets of our Galaxy troops, and has stepped up efforts to gain full control of the Void Hunter mercenaries. You were right, Tanner. He may have agreed to share control of the Void Hunters with me in front of the Center, but he will never accept it. He still resents losing his little kingdom.

-Arakhn'

Nictus Fragments

This crate is filled with clear glass tubes, capped with energy generators. Inside each tube a shadowy sphere hangs suspended in some kind of fluid. The sphere seems to bend light around it, and occasionally snakes out an inky tendril that touches the glass with increased hungered ferocity the closer your hand comes.

Each tube is labeled 'N-Fragment', along with a number, the name of the Nictus it was made from.

Perhaps more importantly, it has a shipping manifest, revealing where it was going to be sent.

Debriefing

Taking out that research facility will definitely strike their plans a grievous blow, and those people you rescued will be thanking you for the rest of their lives. I'll get our people working on the information you found at the lab. The shipping record for those N-fragments could lead us to another facility. The fragments themselves, we're going to turn over to SERAPH. They'll be eager to study them.

Capture Council research in Troll Tunnels

Shadow Science
Part: Five

Briefing

Your recent successes have forced the Council's hand. They have begun to clean out any bases or labs attached to their Nictus work that remain in the city, and are moving the assets from them off-shore. This gives us a great opportunity, but little time to work on it. Fortunately, some Trolls captured in a raid by other heroes revealed that the Council is moving some equipment through their tunnels. This is the perfect chance to capture the Council's research, and I thought you might like to spearhead the operation.

Mission Acceptance

While the main point of this operation is to capture more Council research data before they can take it off-shore, you will also have to make sure that no enemies escape capture so that they cannot warn their allies that we know their plans. You'll have to be thorough, but I know you can handle it.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Remember that along with capturing the Council's research and defeating all of them to keep it quiet, there may still be captives held somewhere in the city. Any information you find could help free them.

Mission Objective(s)

The natural beauty of these caverns has been trampled by the current villainous inhabitants.

• Defeat all foes in tunnels
  • 4 pieces of information to find

You captured the Council's data before they could take it off-shore.

Enemies

Council

Trolls

Notable NPCs

• Ogre (Boss)
• Penumbra Archon (Boss)

Ogre

(before aggro): We be security. Nobody get past, we get paid.
(on aggro): Nobody get past, we gets paid!

Trollkin Patrol 1

(before aggro): No heroeses here!
(on aggro): Arrgh! Heroeses! Attack!!

Troll Patrol 2

(on aggro): We beat you, we gets paid big-time!

You pay big!

(before aggro) Trollkin Gunner: We hit you, you pay big!
Penumbra Archon: Me not understand what you want exactly.

Council Lab paperwork

Reams of paper and dozens of spindles of back-up disks hold the mundane records of the bases that Arakhn was running even before Requiem's old organization was re-absorbed into the Council. A lot of important information could be gleaned from this.

Basic N-Fragment utilization

This report gives a brief overview of how normal Nictus Fragments can be used. A 'Galaxy' soldier can be created by implanting a sufficient number of Nictus Fragments in a willing human host and subjecting that host to careful training. These Galaxy soldiers are capable of using Nictus-like powers, but are not true Nictus themselves.

The report is maddeningly short on details, offering only the faintest hints on how the implantation process actually works.

Altered N-Fragment Uses

This report gives a brief overview of how Nictus Fragments can be altered using quantum energy techniques. By implanting these altered fragments into a willing host, subjecting that host to a specific training regimen, and equipping the implanted soldier with the proper equipment, the Council can create a Void Hunter. The report is short on specific details about how the fragments are altered, the implantation process, and the training regimen, but it does spend several interesting pages expressing the scientist's concerns. They worry about the long term effects, and mention that they have no idea what would happen if something called a 'Total Integration' were to occur to a Void Hunter.

Hypothetical N-Fragment uses

This report outlines several uses for N-Fragments that the researchers would like to explore. Skimming over it, you see:

'We believe that we are on the verge of several breakthroughs. We may have even run across the method that Requiem is using to create Warwolves. We understand that Arakhn has clearly stated no interest in reverse-engineering Requiem's Warwolves, but we think that the benefits of this research could lead us to a whole new era of N-Fragment technology.'

Debriefing

The information you recovered will be invaluable. This was probably our last chance to capture the Council's data before they got it off-shore, and you really came through. SERAPH will be pouring through this for months. There may still be one last operation left to wrap this up. Talk to me soon.

Rescue the final group of the Council's captive human test subjects

Shadow Science
Part: Six

Briefing

It seems that there's one last element of the Council's Nictus experimentation that they haven't yet gotten off-shore. The Council has not yet been able to smuggle out the last captives it used for human experimentation. If it weren't for the documents you found, we never would have found out about it before it was too late. Now those people may have a chance, if you are willing to rescue them from the Council.

Mission Acceptance

These people are in desperate danger. If the Council thinks that they cannot smuggle them out, they will probably terminate them to keep them quiet. You could be their last chance at freedom. And in order to keep their identities safe afterwards, you must also defeat the base's commander, and make certain that their records are destroyed.

Unnecessary Solicitation

These people need your help, Character. You are their last chance for freedom.

Mission Objective(s)

This sprawling Council controlled complex houses the last of the captive human test subjects left on the mainland.

• Defeat Archon Douglas & his men
  • Erase Records
  • 4 captives to free

You rescued the last people being held by the Council for experimentation.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Douglas (Council Penumbra Archon)

Captive 1

(on rescue): I never gave up hope!

Captive 2

(on rescue): I thought we were going to die!

Captive 3

(on rescue): You saved my live, Character.

Captive 4

(on rescue): Thank you, Character!

Archon Douglas

(before aggro): How do they keep finding us?
(on aggro): Your battles end here!

An emailed warning

As you were erasing the records of the captives from the Council's computers, you noticed that someone had left the email program open. One message had been composed and was ready to go, but the author was probably called away before he could hit the "Send" button. It reads:

"Arakhn:
Ma'am, I have been going through our recent set-backs, and while looking through the records of the Void Hunter program, I think I found something unrelated, but important. The candidates for the Void Hunter process we've received from Requiem are almost always old loyalists from his old organization. I think he may be seeding the ranks of the Void Hunters with men who will follow him should push come to shove. I will continue my research into this.

Archon Douglas"

Debriefing

The last of the captives are safe, the Council's experiments have been driven out of the city, and now we know in theory at least how the Galaxy, Void Hunters, and Warwolves are made. Joshua Lucietto's escape opened the door, but you were the one brave enough to face what was on the other side. For all of your fellow Kheldians, Peacebringers, and Warshades; and for the people of the city, let me offer you my thanks, Character.

We now know that Arakhn, the leader of the Nictus within the Council, has been conducting experiments on people, and that she created the Galaxy and Void Hunters of the Council. That still leaves us with many leads and questions, which you may not be powerful enough to follow up. Speak to me again when you're at least Stature Level 20. We should be able to pick up the investigation then.

Winslowe and the Cosmotron (Level 20 - 25)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 18 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

A piece of the Cosmotron

This strange piece of polished metal is all that remains of a device that caused a great deal of conflict. It reminds you of the case of a man who meant to help the world, and a machine he made which unknowingly threatened every Kheldian and Nictus on Earth in a case you call

Winslowe and the Cosmotron

When the Sky Raiders attacked the Paradyne Labs on the eve of a major new announcement, it drew your attention. There had long been rumors that the Council was secretly funding the research of Dr. Winslowe, and now Winslowe and his new invention were the targets of the Sky Raider attack. Though the Sky Raiders did escape with Dr. Winslowe and his device, you stopped them from blowing up the building to cover their tracks. You were also warned that a Peacebringer had recently disappeared, so you needed to be careful.

You pursued the Sky Raiders to a cargo ship where they'd hidden themselves after the raid. You were able to rescue Dr. Winslowe, who told you about the amazing device he'd built, the Cosmotron: A machine capable of tapping the inherent energy of the cosmos to provide limitless clean power. He knew nothing about secret Council funding, and was horrified at the idea of his invention's power in their hands. The Sky Raiders still had the Cosmotron, but you were getting close. There was also a report of a Warshade who'd gone missing, but Winslowe and the Cosmotron seemed a higher priority.

The Sky Raiders attempted to sell the Cosmotron to the highest bidder, drawing gangs and villains from all over the city. You crashed the auction, but in the confusion Council agents made off with the device. When you got back, you found out that another Council team had kidnapped the Professor as well!

You went to Striga Island and broke Dr. Winslowe free from the Council. He told you the awful truth he'd learned: His device wasn't tapping a cosmic power source, but was actually draining energy from Kheldians and Nictus! Some had even been drawn into the device and consumed! You also learned that different Council factions were fighting over Winslowe and the Cosmotron. Arakhn and Requiem were both fighting over it, but there seemed to be evidence of a third faction, as well.

A lucky break revealed where the Council was keeping the Cosmotron, but only because the Sky Raiders were going to try and steal it back! You fought through the chaos, and found that a mysterious faction within the Council had already disassembled the device for study. What's more, they were planning on building a massive version of it to destroy all Kheldians on Earth, including the Nictus.

A quick plan was put together. SERAPH still had working codes to the Council computer network, and the information about the Cosmotron had been confined to the anti-Kheldian conspirators within the Council. By using a computer worm, that information could be wiped out. Dr. Winslowe, overcome by grief at what he'd made, tried to do it himself, but was captured. You rescued the Doctor, and ran the program from inside a Council base. Archon Swann, the madman in charge of the Cosmotron affair, warned you that there were more like him who wanted to see all the Kheldians and Nictus on Earth purged, and that they still had further plans.

The investigations may take some time, and you were encouraged to continue to improve your powers in the mean time. The next phase of the investigation should be ready when you're around Security Level 25.

Stop the Sky Raider attack and talk to Dr. Winslowe

Winslowe and the Cosmotron
Part: One

Briefing

The police are reporting a Sky Raider attack in progress that I think you should know about. The Sky Raiders are attacking Paradyne Labs, a research firm that's supposed to be on the verge of some major announcement about a new energy system created by a Dr. Winslowe. The attack alone is enough to draw attention, but some records captured from Council research labs indicate that Paradyne might have been getting some of its funding from the Council through back channels. The attack must be stopped, but this could also be a chance to discover why the Council is interested in Paradyne and Dr. Winslowe's energy system.

Mission Acceptance

The Sky Raiders can be very dangerous. They will likely have taken hostages, and may have planted bombs to delay your progress while they accomplish their goals.

There's one more thing you should know about. A Peacebringer has disappeared. We don't think she's gone renegade, but we don't have any clues to what may have happened to her. It could be the Circle of Thorns, the Council, or another threat we don't know about. So be careful, and stay focused.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You cannot let the Sky Raiders get away with this. When you're done in there, we'll work out the next step.

Mission Objective(s)

Paradyne Labs has been preparing for a big announcement lately. No doubt that's what drew the attention of the Sky Raiders.

• Defeat Lt. Phineas & his men
  • 4 bombs left
  • 2 hostages left

You saved Paradyne Labs, but the Sky Raiders had already absconded with Dr. Winslowe and his device.

Enemies

Sky Raiders

Notable NPCs

• Lt. Phineas (Sky Raiders Captain)

Saboteurs 1

(before aggro)
Wing Raider: All 4 bombs are set.
Inferno Raider: Round up the hostages.

(on aggro)
Wing Raider: Concentrate on the Kheldian!

Saboteurs 2

Wing Raider (before aggro): We'll be rich after this one.
Wing Raider (on aggro): You know the drill! Everybody get ready!

Hostage 1

(on rescue): I think they took Dr. Winslowe!

Hostage 2

(on rescue): They were after Dr. Winslowe and his machine!

Lt. Phineas

(on aggro): A costumed clod like you don't have a chance, Character!

Entry pass card

This pass card should get you into the lab's main facilities.

Security pass card

This pass card should get you into the lab's secured section.

Raid Time Table

You found this time table on Lt. Phineas during the attack on Paradyne labs. According to what's been checked off, the Sky Raiders have already taken Dr. Winslowe and a device called the 'Cosmotron'. There may be enough information on here to piece together where the Raiders have taken them.

Debriefing

While the Sky Raiders did get away with Winslowe, you stopped the attack on the labs and saved the lives of many people. The information you found on Lt. Phineas should help locate where the Sky Raiders are keeping Winslowe and his machine. I have a feeling that this is the beginning of something big.

Strike Sky Raider fall-back point to rescue Dr. Winslowe

Winslowe and the Cosmotron
Part: Two

Briefing

We've been able to pinpoint the location of the Sky Raiders' fall-back point using the information you discovered in the Sky Raider attack in Paradyne labs. We think that they're lying low there until they can get Dr. Winslowe and his device out of the country. The Sky Raiders aren't going to give him and his machine up without a fight, but this could be the last chance to save Dr. Winslowe and get his machine out of the Sky Raiders' hands.

Mission Acceptance

The Sky Raiders have taken over a cargo ship in Talos Island. You'll need to defeat all the enemies on that vessel to secure it. Dr. Winslowe and his machine should be aboard, unless something else has gone wrong.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You'll need to defeat any and all enemies on that cargo ship to secure it and make sure Dr. Winslowe is safe.

Mission Objective(s)

The Sky Raiders are known to use cargo ships as forward bases, often without the owner's knowledge.

• Defeat all foes on cargo ship
  • Rescue Dr. Winslowe

You rescued Dr. Winslowe, but the Sky Raiders escaped with the Cosmotron in the chaos of the three way battle with the Council.

Enemies

Sky Raiders

Council

Notable NPCs

• Dr. Winslowe (NPC Hostage)

Dr. Winslowe

(on rescue): Oh, thank you Character! They've got the Cosmotron!

Raider Chatter

(on aggro): Prepare to repel boarders!

Council Chatter

(on aggro): We'll finish this after taking care of the heroes!

Signed orders

These orders are from a Council base on Striga Island. They tell this unit of Council troops to secure Dr. Winslowe and his machine to all costs. There's an additional note in beautiful cursive letters written on the orders:

Brave soldiers of the Council:
Know that this mission is of particular import to me. Should you succeed in capturing Dr. Winslowe alive and delivering him to me, you will all be well rewarded. But if he should perish, then I shall be gravely disappointed. It is important that we convince the good Doctor to tell us why Requiem has been so interested in his research. Who knows what that pompous egomaniac has been up to without proper guidance all these years.

'It could bring limitless destruction'

After you rescued him, Dr. Winslowe told you:

'You must listen! They still have my machine, the Cosmotron! I had no idea that any of the money was coming from the Council, or I never would have gone to the prototype phase. The thought of all that power in the wrong hands shakes me to the core.

The Cosmotron works using advanced applications of M-Theory, tapping the vibrations of the 10th-dimensional membrane of our universe to derive limitless clean power. It will change the world! But in the wrong hands, it could bring limitless destruction.

The Cosmotron must be recovered!'

Debriefing

Dr. Winslowe is safe, but that may be the least of our worries. If what he says about this "Cosmotron" is true, then it could change the world if used responsibly. In the wrong hands, it might enslave the world or destroy it. We've had a Warshade go missing and I was going to ask you to look into the disappearance, but I think this takes priority.

Recover the Cosmotron from the Sky Raider auction

Winslowe and the Cosmotron
Part: Three

Briefing

We have discovered that the Sky Raiders are planning to sell the Cosmotron to the highest bidder. This will attract gangs and villain organizations from all over the city, but it's imperative that none of them end up with the Cosmotron. From what we know, there will be representatives from the Freakshow, the Family, the Warriors, the Council and of course the Sky Raiders all there. It's dangerous, but we need you to go in and try to get the Cosmotron before one of those groups walks away with it.

Mission Acceptance

You'll have to locate the Cosmotron and defeat whoever is guarding it. Then get out of there alive. We've lost contact with several more Peacebringers and Warshades, and neither of us wants to lose any more people.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You'll have to locate the Cosmotron and defeat whoever is guarding it. Then get out of there alive. We've lost contact with several more Peacebringers and Warshades, and neither of us wants to lose any more people.

Mission Objective(s)

It's likely that the true owners of this warehouse are blissfully unaware of what it's being used for right now.

• Recover the Cosmotron
  • Find the Cosmotron

By the time you had gotten there, the Council had finally absconded with the Cosmotron. But there was worse news to come.

Enemies

Council

The Family

Freakshow

The Lost

Sky Raiders

Tsoo

Warriors

Sky Raiders

(before aggro)
Wing Raider: We're gonna be rich when this is over.
Raider Engineer: If we can keep this place in one piece.

(on aggro)
Wing Raider: Oh, great! A hero! Just what we don't need!

Tsoo

Green Ink Man (on aggro): A worthy challenge to alleviate this bickering.

Family and Warriors

Button Man Buckshot (before aggro): You Family thugs don't know when you're beaten!

Warrior Slicer (on aggro): Hey! We got hero trouble!

Lost

(before aggro)
Mutate Gunner: We could get so much power. Enough for all our needs.
Mutate Slugger: Enough power to accomplish all our plans.

(on aggro)
Mutate Gunner: The power won't fall into the hands of unbelievers!

Council

Vortex Cor Leonis Sonic (before aggro): The plan is underway.

Vortex Cor Leonis Sonic (on aggro): You won't spoil our operation, Character!

Freakshow

Mad Freak Chopper (before aggro): Yeah! Endless power to do... To do... Hey? What are we going to do with this thing?

Freak Slammer (on aggro): Ah, violence! And here I was worried about thinking!

Penumbra Cor Leonis Adjutant

(on aggro): This has always belonged to us!

Sealed orders

You found these orders on a defeated Council Lycanthrope

'Your goal is the recovery of Dr. Winslowe's device, the Cosmotron. As your unit is comprised of men who have been with me even before we returned to the Council, I have every confidence you will return the Cosmotron to me. The recent disappearances among Nictus toadies of Arakhn's makes me think that my theories are correct.

Of course, if the way to the regroup point is blocked by heroic action, then take the device to Striga and deliver it to the Center's troops. He can be trusted with its care until we can recommence our research.'

Cosmotronless

When you opened the crate, you found that the Cosmotron had already been taken. However, a brass insignia from a Council Cor Leonis trooper that had fallen inside the crate gives you a good idea who now has the device.

Debriefing

The Council has the Cosmotron, but it gets worse. While you were fighting them to try and recover it, another Council squad kidnapped Dr. Winslowe. We believe that they're taking him to Striga Island. The Council now has both the Doctor and his device, but they haven't won yet.

Rescue Dr. Winslowe on Striga Island

Winslowe and the Cosmotron
Part: Four

Briefing

The Council now has both Doctor Winslowe and his device, but from what we've been able to track, it seems that they're not being held in the same place. It's as if the Council troops who took the Doctor and the troops that took the Cosmotron aren't communicating with each other. That's bad for them, but good for us. It should make getting both to safety much easier. The first step is going to be rescuing Dr. Winslowe on Striga Island.

Mission Acceptance

We know where Dr. Winslowe is being held. Your main objective will be to free him from his captors. Hopefully, they won't be expecting a rescue attempt so soon.

Unnecessary Solicitation

This mission shouldn't take too long. Just make sure to get Dr. Winslowe out safely.

Mission Objective(s)

Dr. Winslowe seems to have an affinity for getting in trouble. Hopefully it won't be the end of him.

• Rescue Dr. Winslowe

You rescued Dr. Winslowe and discovered, as he had, the terrible truth about the Cosmotron.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Dr. Winslowe (NPC Hostage)

Dr. Winslowe

(on rescue): What have I done? What has science wrought!

What have I made?

When you rescued him, an overwrought Dr. Winslowe told you:

"You have to tell them I'm sorry. I had no idea! No idea what it was really doing! I was so horribly wrong, but it seemed to be working. The Cosmotron was drawing power, but I was wrongabout the source! My calculations were off, but I just accepted the result. What have I done? The Cosmotron!
It's not drawing power from the universe! It'sdrawing power from you! From all the Kheldians! It's tapping into your cosmic linkages and sucking the life out of you! I've been over the readings! It's already swallowed some poor souls whole. Now the Council wants to tune it, make it into a weapon.

These majestic visitors from the universe are being eaten alive in the cosmic maw of my own creation! What have I done? What have I done!"

A copied email

This piece of email is adressed to Arakhn, but seems to have been copied surreptitiously. This kind of spying is common among the Council. The letter reads:

'My dear Arakhn,
Something has been brought before me that I can no longer ignore. This spat between you and Requiem seems to be flaring up again over this device. And others are noticing. Arakhn, how long have we known each other? I still remember when first I saw you back in 1926 when I tried to get you to join us. I still remember the many long talks we'd share, sipping wine late into the night. And I also remember when Requiem first appeared, and this fight between you first started. You have not aged a day my sweet friend, but I have grown old, Arakhn, and even my patience wears thin. You are both Nictus. Can you not, as a favor to your oldest friend, as your duty to this organization, and to your own best interest, just stop fighting each other? Maestro has not been the only one to express displeasure at this bickering, and though I treasure our friendship, do not think that I won't take over this operation if you two can't work together.

-The Center'

From the looks of things, whoever copied this email also forwarded it to another address.

Debriefing

Dr. Winslowe is safe and back in the city, and he's told us everything. I can't believe it. All the missing haven't been kidnapped, they were consumed during test runs of the Cosmotron. If the Council can find a way to tune it and make it a weapon, then it could be the end for us all.

Recover the Cosmotron during the Sky Raider attack

Winslowe and the Cosmotron
Part: Five

Briefing

We've had another break, but it's not necessarily lucky. An undercover police officer working the Sky Raider beat may have uncovered the location of the Cosmotron. Unfortunately, the Sky Raiders are being paid to attack and recover it. We have the location on Striga Island, and the time that they plan to make the attack. If you can infiltrate the Council base where the Cosmotron is being held and recover it during the chaos of the battle, we may be able to put an end to this once and for all.

Mission Acceptance

From what we now know, Dr. Winslowe's Cosmotron could be the biggest threat to our people since the Nictus themselves. In order to stop it, you will need to recover the device, defeat the leaders of the base where it was kept, and check the Council network to see what they know about it.

Unnecessary Solicitation

In order to stop the threat to all Kheldians that the Cosmotron represents, you will need to recover the device, defeat the leaders of the base where it was kept, and check the Council network to see what they know about it.

Mission Objective(s)

The halls of this base echo with gunfire and explosions. The battle has already begun.

• Secure the Cosmotron
  • 6 computers
  • Find the Cosmotron
  • Defeat Leader

You recovered the original Cosmotron, but discovered that the Council now has the ability to make one themselves!

Enemies

Council

Sky Raiders

Notable NPCs

Council

Penumbra Cor Leonis Force (before aggro): You'll never have it!

Penumbra Cor Leonis Force (on aggro): We're under external attack! Redeploy!

Raiders

Wing Raider (on aggro): Heroes! It's on!

Council and Raiders

Wing Raider (before aggro): We stole it first!

Galaxy (on aggro): We have more pressing foes to battle.

Leaders

(before aggro)
Wing Raider Officer: We're just doing a job. Nothing personal.

(on aggro)
Galaxy Archon: The battle is on!
Wing Raider Officer: It's too much! Fall back!

A report on the Cosmotron

You found this report on Dr. Winslowe's Cosmotron, written by an Archon Swann to another party within the Council. In the report, Swann confirms that the Cosmotron could probably be turned into a weapon. Swann even proposes a much larger version of it that could wipe out all the Kheldians on Earth within minutes. Interestingly, this report was only ever sent to one other person. It's not linked to the Council's database. It's almost as if this Archon Swann wanted to keep the report confidential.

A forwarded email

This piece of email was adressed to Requiem, but it seems that it was forwarded to an account on this computer surreptitiously. This kind of spying is common among the Council's upper echelons. It reads:

'Requiem:
I had hoped that I would not have to speak with you about this. I had hoped that working on your own, as the head of your own organization for so many years would have helped. But I cannot ignore the constant in-fighting between you and Arakhn any longer. It has jeopardized this entire operation with Dr. Winslowe's device, and several within the Council have noticed it. I know that you are unhappy under Arakhn's command, but I also know that you understand the political necessity of it. There are many who do not trust you and who have never trusted you just because of their fear of the Nictus, but I am not among their number and will not be among their number unless you force me. Remember that I was the one who funded your old organization. If the only repayment I received was that you and Arakhn could learn to work together, I would be more than satisfied.

-The Center'

It appears that this message was forwarded on to another person as well, but you have no clue who.

The Cosmotron, disassembled

The parts in these boxes once made up the Cosmotron. Now the deadly device has been taken apart and thoroughly examined. The Council surely understands how to build one of their own now.

Mission Orders

These plans outline the Sky Raider attack to recover the Cosmotron. The most interesting thing about them is that they have been ordered by their employer to take the Cosmotron to another base on Striga Island. They've even been given a flight path to avoid patrols by any other Council troops. It's as if some other faction within the Council wanted to get the Costmotron without either Arakhn or Requiem knowing about it.

Debriefing

You've recovered the Cosmotron, and that was very good work. Unfortunately, now that the Council's studied it, we're still not safe. From the look of the report, though, that information may have been contained within a small faction of the Council. That could help us a great deal. We have a plan, but it's going to be dangerous. We're almost ready to go for the end game, and we're going to need your help to do it.

Corrupt the Council's Cosmotron files and save Dr. Winslowe from his own foolishness

Winslowe and the Cosmotron
Part: Six

Briefing

We had a plan to handle the fact that some faction within the Council now has the plans for the Cosmotron, but there's been a problem. SERAPH has been able to develop a computer worm that can track down all references to the Cosmotron in the Council's databases, and change them just enough so that they won't be able to build a working one. The plan was to send you in to use the program at the base the Sky Raiders had been ordered to deliver the Cosmotron to. At least that was the plan until Dr. Winslowe decided to take matters into his own hands. He's gone to Striga to try and fix it himself. You'll have to save him before he gets himself killed.

Mission Acceptance

Your three objectives are to get Dr. Winslowe out alive, to infect the Council computers with the virus, and to defeat Archon Swann, so he can't spread what he knows.

Dr. Winslowe is still overcome with guilt and shame for the deaths he unknowningly caused. While it is true that we would be safer if he were to perish along with his invention, I know that his family needs him. Sometimes we have to sacrifice our safety to do the right thing. That's why we are Peacebringers and Warshades, and not Nictus.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You need to bring Dr. Winslowe back alive, and get the worm onto their computer system, and don't forget Archon Swann. He's certain not to go down without a fight.

C0sM0tR0n.exe

This disk contains a powerful program designed to over-write certain sections of the Council database, distorting data and subtly sabotaging plans for the Cosmotron or any device like it.

Mission Objective(s)

The threat of the Cosmotron will end here and now.

• Defeat Swann & his men
  • Save Winslowe
  • 4 computers left

You have brought an end to the threat of the Cosmotron and got Dr. Winslowe home safely.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Swann (Council Vortex Elite Archon)

Archon Swann

Upon Approach: We'll get what we want from Winslowe, even if I have to rip out his teeth.
During Combat You're a Kheldian, aren't you Character? I knew all of you were working together!

Dr. Winslowe

(on rescue): I thought I could do it on my own. I'm sorry to have been such a burden.

'We have more plans. Just wait.'

After you defeated Archon Swann, he sneered the following hate-filled words at you:

'Don't think this is the end of it. We know all about you Kheldians. We know the truth, and we won't let any of you win. The Center may not see it, but we won't let that old fool stand in the way. We'll drive the Nictus from the Council, and then we'll drive all of you to extinction. The Cosmotron was nice, but we already have other inventions in the works. We have more plans. Just wait. You'll never know when the end will come.'

Debriefing

The threat of the Cosmotron is over. Dr. Winslowe has apologized to the families of the Kheldians accidentally slain by the device, and is trying to make amends as best he can. There are still a number of questions though. Swann mentioned that there were others within the Council that were out to purge both Arakhn's and Requiem's factions, and we weren't too much farther down their list. What are their plans? We may have to wait until another clue comes our way to find out and unravel this new mystery.

You should seek to improve your already considerable skills until then. Talk to me again when you're around level 25. I have a feeling that by the time you reach that point, we'll be ready for the next step.

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle (Level 25 - 30)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 15 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

A prototype Quantum weapon

Dr. Winslowe and his team at SERAPH gave you this non-functional prototype, based on designs captured from a conspiracy within the Council itself. Winslowe thinks he may be able to perfect the design one day, but for now you keep it as a memento of the strange case you remember as:

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle

After a captured Council Archon had revealed he existence of a rabidly anti-Nictus and anti-Kheldian faction within the Council, monitoring of the evil organization was stepped up dramatically, looking for further clues. The clue you were looking for came when Moonfire, the Kheldian agent on Striga Island, discovered that a group of Council soldiers was secretly testing new weapons against the Banished Pantheon. The weapons were being tuned for use against Nictus, but you found both a War Wolf and a Galaxy soldier working to help test them.

Searching for clues about why the Galaxy Archon Booker would help against the Kheldians, you investigated his old base. There you discovered that he had learned something dire about Arakhn's plans, and was feeling himself transforming into an alien being from his Nictus Fragment implants. These combined led him into the conspiracy.

One of the names mentioned in Booker's journals was an Archon Coster, the head of a research base. You infiltrated the facility, but found it already under attack by the Banished Pantheon, who sought revenge for being used as test subjects. Coster had been killed by the Pantheon by the time you arrived, but his notes not only had the names of the remaining conspirators, but showed that Coster had been a double-agent, and had assembled those names for Arakhn herself.

You rescued the scientists that the Council conspirators had forced to work on their anti-Nictus weapons, and captured Archon Stone, the third conspirator. From this point forward, it would be a race to capture the last conspirators before Arakhn could hunt them down.

You captured Lt. Wester and Archon Turley, two more members of the conspiracy, before Arakhn could assassinate them. You also discovered that the remaining conspirators planned to escape Striga Island and defect to another organization.

As you rushed the capture of the last two conspirators for all valuable information they held, you learned that Arakhn had alerted the Center to the conspiracy. With no time to lose, you captured Archon Saager and Archon Voight before they could escape from Striga on a cargo vessel. With all the conspirators safely captured, Arakhn's attempts to assassinate them were foiled, and much new information about Nictus activity within the Council could be gained. It may take some time for the conspirators to talk, so you were encouraged to improve your powers until then so you'd be ready to investigate whatever was revealed. You were told to come back when you were about Stature Level 30 to continue.

Speak to Moonfire on Striga Island

Speak with Moonfire on Striga

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle
Part: One

Briefing

In the wake of Archon Swann's revelation about an anti-Nictus faction within the Council at the end of the Cosmotron incident, we've been monitoring the Council very closely, looking for any trace of this group within the Council. Now Moonfire thinks that she's found something, and has asked for you to speak to her on Striga Island.

Mission Acceptance

I'll let Moonfire tell you what she's found herself. This could be very interesting indeed.

Unneccesary Solicitation

I think Moonfire may be onto something big. You should speak with her as soon as you can.

Mission Objective(s)

• Speak with Moonfire on Striga

Moonfire

Briefing

I am glad that you have chosen this task, Character. I have been closely monitoring Council communications, seeking some evidence of a conspiracy against the Nictus within their ranks. I have discovered that a group of Council soldiers have been tasked with a deadly experiment: To employ newly developed weapons against the Banished Pantheon in a live-fire test. What drew my interest was that this test is being concealed from nearly all factions of the Council, but particularly from Requiem, Arakhn, and the Center.

It is my belief that these new weapons may be under development with their sights set on the Nictus. Therefore it is imperative that they are recovered and examined. You should also look for the leader of these solders, a man named Captain Dawson, and defeat him to find any information he carries.

Investigate weapons test

Unneccesary Solicitation

Moonfire's correct that this could be something important. We need to see what those weapons are, and what this Archon Dawson knows.

Mission Objective(s)

Large sections of Striga have been overrun by the Banished Pantheon, and these caverns appear to be full of the creatures.

• Investigate weapons test
  • 1 weapon to locate, Defeat Captain Dawson

You defeated Captain Dawson and recovered some strange weapons.

Enemies

Banished Pantheon

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Booker (Council Vortex Cor Leonis Archon)
• Captain Dawson (Council Equinox Adjutant)

Note: Captain Dawson spawns as unnamed Equinox Adjutant or Vortex Cor Leonis Adjutant.

Another Spawn

Dry Chamber: Luh...Geh..bu...
Penumbra Cor Leonis Fire We're cut off!

Archon Booker

(before aggro): Dawson's team is cut off. He's really up the creek.
(on aggro) This just got worse! It's Character!

Captain Dawson

(before aggro): Everyone get back! I've got to unleash the beast if we're going to escape!
(on aggro): We need these weapons! You don't know what they've done to me!

Dawson's Orders

These Orders are maked for Captain Dawson only. They lay out the plan to test these new weapons against 'Possesion-capable entities', like the Banished Pantheon before trying them out against a 'Hostile Alien'.

Quantum Dispersal weapons

These weapons are based off of the Void Hunter's Quantum Array guns, but have been tuned very differently. These weapons are specifically designed to work against Nictus, and people with implanted Nictus fragments.

Debriefing

Moonfire was correct. These weapons appear to be tuned specifically to fight beings like the Nictus. I guess that they'll have a strong effect against creatures of the Pantheon as well, since they are controlled by an energy being of sorts. What I don't understand is why a Warwolf and a Galaxy Archon were helping to test them. There's more going on here, and I think that this is just the beginning of something big.

Infiltrate a Galaxy base to learn about Booker

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle
Part: Two

Briefing

We have some people looking at the Quantum Dispersal weapons you recovered, but there are still a lot of unanswered questions about what was going on in those caves. One of the things that troubles me is if they were testing anti-Nictus weapons, why were Warwolves and Galaxy troops helping them? We've done some investigation, and found the base where Archon Booker was stationed. There may be some clues to his motivations there if you can get in and retrieve them.

Mission Acceptance

Booker isn't talking, but others did metion that he kept journals. If you can find them, it might help us figure out why he's conspiring against the Nictus. It might also identify other members of the conspiracy. You only need to find Booker's journals. If you want to fight or you have to fight, you can, but it's not necessary.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Booker's journals could tell us a lot. You don't have to fight if you can avoid it.

Mission Objective(s)

This base is being used exclusively by Arakhn's Galaxy troops

• Investigate Booker's journals
  • 2 journals to find

You have recovered the journals.

Enemies

Council

(Galaxy Soldiers)

Booker's early journal

This hand-written journal was written by Francis Booker, and details his early years in the Council. He spends pages talking about the first time he met Arakhn after distinguishing himself in battle, and the honor he felt when he was selected to become one of the Galaxy troops. He also spends several pages describing his disgust for Requiem, whom he regarded as an egotist and Arakhn's enemy. It is not until the last few entries that a note of discord is struck:

'Arakhn told us all today. Now I know the truth, and it sickens me. I can't believe I once relished this power. I feel it growing in me, changing me. The others don't seem to mind, but I feel it like a cancer eating away at who I once was. Alien thoughts and feelings, welling up every second I don't fight to push them back. I don't even know if I'm human, but now that I've learned the truth of their plans I know that human or not I have to fight them while I still can.'

Unfortunately, Booker makes no further mention of what the 'Truth' he learned was.

Booker's recent journal

This hand-written journal was written by Archon Francis Booker. This journal covers the last year or so of his life to the present. He describes being contacted by Archon Swann about his growing dissatisfaction and unease as a Galaxy solder:

'Went to the meeting place to find Swann talking to a War-wolf. Fighting nearly broke out until Swann got us all to realize how much we had in common. After we talked, we found we had a lot in common. Like we all felt the monsters in us now.

The next night, Swann took us all to meet with Archon Coster. He told us about the group. He told us about their plans. All of us agreed. The Nictus must be stopped, no matter the cost.'

Much of the rest of the journal talks about bringing in more Galaxy troops who feel uneasy with their transformations, all the while carefully avoiding the majority who exult in their new power.

Debriefing

These journals are interesting reading. Booker clearly feels like he's being transformed into something he doesn't like by the Nictus fragment implants he received. He chose to fight against it by joining this group, knowing full well that if they succeed it could be the death of him. I just wonder what he learned about Arakhn that made him snap.

More practically, we know about Archon Swann, and have him in custody. However, Archon Coster is a new name to this investigation, and from the journal it sounds like he was closer to the conspiracy than Swann. We'll start investigating immediately.

Catch Archon Coster in his lab

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle
Part: Three

Briefing

We've done some research on the name you found in Booker's journal, 'Archon Coster'. It turns out that Coster runs a research-oriented facility on Striga Island. A research facility that was working on new applications of Arakhn's Quantum technology. I think we may have learned what those new applications are. We've been able to locate Costers' facility, and I would like you to go in and catch him there.

Mission Acceptance

Catching Coster is the most important thing. He can tell us more about the conspiracy, and anything he says about those Quantum Dispersal guns could help Dr. Winslowe and his team to reverse-engineer them. He may not be willing to talk, so also keep an eye out for any other information you can find.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Coster and the information in the base is the most important thing. It could lead us right to the heart of the conspiracy.

Mission Objective(s)

You realize that something's gone wrong the moment you walk in. Several dead guards and bullet-riddled zombies alert you to the Banished Pantheon's presence.

• Catch Archon Coster
  • 2 pieces of information to find, Find Coster

Though Archon Coster was dead, you found out several important things, about the Conspiracy, including the names of its leaders.

Enemies

Banished Pantheon

Council

Banished Pantheon 1

Rotting Chamber (on aggro): We hunger!

Banished Pantheon 2

(before aggro)
Rotting Husk: M'Teru...
Rotting Chamber: Luhgebhu...

(on aggro)
Rotting Chamber: We hunt!
Rotting Husk: We hunger!

Hostage Scientist

(on rescue): Thank you, Character! I have important information!

'It's science at gunpoint!'

When you rescued a scientist held captive by the anti-Nictus conspiracy within the Council, he told you:

'By Fermat's last theorem, I thought I was done for until you arrived, Character! Those Council thugs have been holding myself and several other scientists captive, forcing us to work on new weapons under a man called Archon Swann. It's science at gunpoint! Fortunately, when Swann was captured, they didn't have anyone left who could tell what we were doing, so we were able to slow down our research without raising suspicion. They still have the others, but I'll help any way I can!'.

Scientist Transfer Orders

You found these orders on Archon Swann's computer. They authorize the transfer of several captive scientists to another facility controlled by a fellow conspirator named Archon Stone. From the date, the move was very recent.

No honor among conspirators

You found this report on Archon Coster's body. Its shocking contents read:

'My Lady:

I have the last name. As you suspected, it is Archon Stone. I transferred the scientists to his care, and now he trusts me completely. The full list of conspirators against you is: Voight, Stone, Saager, Turley, and Swann. With Swann's set-up and capture engineered so well, their technical progress has ground to a halt, and none of the remaining four suspect a thing.

As you surmised, My Lady, the Pantheon have begun to retaliate for the tests against them. I have purposefully played down this possibility to keep the others off guard. We shall soon be able to clean up the remainders. I would like to stress, however, that the Kheldians have been getting closer. We may need to deal with them soon. I await your next orders, Lady Arakhn.

Ever your servant,

Archon Coster'

Debriefing

I should have seen it coming. The conspirators had a traitor in their midst. That's politics as usual within the Council. However, that puts us on an accelerated time table. Once Arakhn knows that her man has been killed, she's sure to act before the remaining conspirators escape. If she captures those scientists or the conspirator's weapons, we may never see them again. From now on, this is a race to the bottom of this conspiracy.

Rescue scientists at over-run base

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle
Part: Four

Briefing

The information you recovered from Archon Coster's base has led us to the location of the base where the scientists the Conspiracy had kidnapped are being held. We have been monitoring the base to plan a strike. Now that Arakhn's double agent in the conspiracy has been killed, she'll likely move quickly to round up the conspirators. We were hoping we could find the right chance to send you in, but our monitors have intercepted distress calls from the base. They're being overrun by the Banished Pantheon! It's imperative that those people are rescued from the Council before something happens to them.

Mission Acceptance

There's another target to consider, along with rescuing the scientists. Archon Stone, one of the other conspirators, is the commander of this base. If you can capture him before Arakhn's operatives or the Banished Pantheon can get to him, he could be a valuable source of intelligence.

Unneccesary Solicitation

You need to rescue the scientists and capture Archon Stone before the Banished Pantheon finishes them, or Arakhn realizes what's going on.

Mission Objective(s)

This base is in chaos. The Banished Pantheon's attack seems to have caught its defenders off-guard.

• Attack Stone's Base
  • 4 scientists to rescue, Capture Archon Stone

You captured Archon Stone and rescued the kidnapped scientists!

Enemies

Banished Pantheon

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Stone (Council Vortex Cor Leonis Archon)

Note: Archon Stone spawns as an unnamed Galaxy Adjutant

Council 1

(before aggro)
Vortex Cor Leonis Marksman: I was only away on patrol for half an hour!
Vortex Cor Leonis Marksman: Those things have swamped us!

(on aggro)
Vortex Cor Leonis Marksman: Character! That's one of those Kheldians!

Council 2

(before aggro)
Vortex Cor Leonis Fire: Arakhn demands your surrender!
Vortex Cor Leonis Force: We'll stop you monsters!

(on aggro)
Vortex Cor Leonis Fire: Attack!

Banished Pantheon 1

Rotting Husk (before aggro): Hunger...
Rotting Husk (on aggro): Kill!

Banished Pantheon 2

Rotting Husk (on aggro): Slay!

Council and Banished Pantheon

(before aggro)
Rotting Chamber: Destroy!
Vortex Cor Leonis Marksman: They just keep attacking!

(on aggro)
Rotting Chamber: Revenge!
Vortex Cor Leonis Marksman: We have to fight our way out!

Hostage Scientist

(on rescue): Thanks for saving me, Character! I thought I was done for!

Archon Stone

(before aggro): Coster said they wouldn't retaliate! What was he thinking?
(on aggro): Form up! Defeat all attackers!

Debriefing

Archon Stone is in captivity and we've gotten all the scientists to safety. Arakhn is certain to be on the trail of the remaining conspirators now. We don't have much time before this explodes.

Disrupt Arakhn's intelligence and locate the conspirators

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle
Part: Five

Briefing

Arakhn is moving against the conspirators. That isn't necessarily a bad thing now that we've rescued the kidnapped scientists, but any of the conspirators we capture could be valuable sources of information. They've been watching Arakhn and Requiem for years, and may know a lot about their activities. We need time to find the remaining conspirators, and as long as Arakhn is hunting them, we won't get it. We have to disrupt her intelligence long enough for us to find and capture the conspirators, and we're going to need your help to do it.

Mission Acceptance

It turns out that Archon Coster wasn't Arakhn's only spy among the conspirators. We found references to him among Archon Coster's papers, and have been able to identify him. His name is Lt. Wester, and he works for Archon Turley, one of the conspirators at large. Your mission is to catch both of them, netting us one conspirator and blinding Arakhn's operation.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Catching Turley will net us another conspirator, and catching Wester will blind Arakhn's operations against the conspiracy long enough for us to find the rest.

Mission Objective(s)

This base appears to be in a state of hurried packing. You see several boxes packed full of papers ready to be moved.

• Catch Archon Turley & Lt. Wester
  • Capture Lt. Wester
  • Capture Archon Turley

You captured Archon Turley and Lt. Wester, and discovered that the remaining conspirators are planning to evacuate Striga Island.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Lt. Wester (Galaxy Adjutant) (Lieutenant)
• Archon Turley (Penumbra Cor Leonis Archon) (Boss)

Lt. Wester

(before aggro): Yes, I'll be right there after I file a report.
(on aggro): This situation is already out of your control, Character!

Archon Turley

(before aggro): Make sure all the papers are packed. I may want to write memoirs some day.
(on aggro): I will not be captured by Arakhn, by you, or by anyone!

'She told The Center everything'

After you defeated Lt. Wester, he told you:

'Arakhn knows that you're hunting down the conspirators. She's made plans to handle it. She told the Center everything. Even now his troops are preparing, soon they'll take care of all the conspirators for us. Best of all, any accusations they make will look like desperate lies. You won't be able to move fast enough, Kheldian. They'll be out of your hands forever.'

Evacuation plans

You found these plans on Archon Turley after you defeated him. It looks like the remaining conspirators think the cause is lost, and plan to take what they've learned and leave Striga Isle. What's more, they mention that they've made contact with another villain organization called Arachnos, and plan to defect to it with all of their new weapons.

Debriefing

Good work, you captured both of them before they could get away or Arakhn could get to Turley. If they're planning to leave Striga and defect to another organization, we have to stop them.

Catch the last two conspirators before they leave Striga

Fear and Loathing on Striga Isle
Part: Six

Briefing

The two remaining heads of the Conspiracy are preparing to escape Striga Isle, and the Center's personal guard are leading the attack to re-capture them now that Arakhn has let him know about the conspiracy. This is the last chance we're going to have to catch them ourselves. After this is over, the'll be beyond our reach, one way or another.

Mission Acceptance

Archon Saager and Archon Voight are the last two leaders of the conspiracy still free, and they're planning to keep it that way. They've loaded up a tanker-ship with their loyalists, and plan to take it to the Rogue Isles. We can't let that happen. The information they know about the Nictus activity within the Council could change everything. What they know about Arakhn's schemes and Requiem's plots will keep the heroes of the city busy for months, and set the Council back years.

Unneccesary Solicitation

You need to hurry to that ship. Saager and Voight could escape at any moment.

Mission Objective(s)

The interior of this vessel rings with the sounds of battle.

• Catch Archon Saager & Voight
  • Capture Archon Saager
  • Capture Archon Voight

You captured Archon Saager and Archon Voight, the last of the Council conspirators.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Saager (Penumbra Cor Leonis Archon) (Boss)
• Archon Voight (Penumbra Cor Leonis Archon) (Boss)

Fighting Council 1

(before aggro)
Vortex Cor Leonis Adjutant: Do your duty to the Center!
Galaxy Adjutant: We're the ones loyal to the Council!

Fighting Council 1

(before aggro)
Equinox Adjutant: It's over for you traitors.
Equinox Adjutant: The Nictus are the threat!

Ascendants

(before aggro)
Ascendant: Find the last of the traitors.
Ascendant: This area is almost secured.

(on aggro) Ascendant: The Center controls all!

Archon Saager

(before aggro): Is this the end of all our plans?
(on aggro): If this is the end, I feel an odd relief. Come, Character, let us fight.

Archon Voight

(on aggro): I would rather be captured by you than the Center, but I will not let it be easy.

'Many, many more secrets...'

After you defeated Archon Voight, he said:

'You fought well. I can accept this loss, because I know that you'll keep fighting the Nictus even after I'm in the Ziggurat. The Council is a lost cause, though. Keep up your investigation. There are many more secrets than even we discovered. Many, many more secrets...'

Debriefing

We now have Swann, Stone, Turley, Saager, & Voight all in custody. The few things they've already talked about have already lead to arms smuggling rings and several hidden bases. That intelligence alone has been valuable. They've also said some very disturbing things about what the Nictus withing the Council have been planning. There's a lot to investigate, and none of it could have happened if it weren't for you, Character.

It may take some time to reach the next stage of this. Your power has grown immensely since you began your life as a Kheldian, but to continue the fight against the Council, you should concentrate and train yourself further. Come back and talk to me when you are around Security Level 30. I think you'll be strong enough then.

Scary Monsters (Level 30 - 35)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 20 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

Data disc

You've kept this copy of Arakhn's experimental data as insurance in case you once again have to face her:

Scary Monsters

It began with reports of strange activity around a Council base. Galaxy troops had been seen escorting Hydra Men, Freakshow, and Devouring Earth creatures into the base. You investigated, and found a Freakshow gangster who had acquired the abilities of the Galaxy. He had been implanted with Nictus fragments, as part of some sick experiments of Arakhn's.

You knew you had to find out more about what Arakhn was doing. A report of more Freakshow activity in a Council base in Brickstown got your attention. You journeyed there and fought several Dark Freaks. You also discovered an unsent e-mail from Arakhn herself! It was to an ally of hers within the Council, but you were unable to determine who that ally might be.

Arakhn's e-mail indicated that she was about to take her experiments to Stage Two. Desperate for answers, you took to the streets. After defeating many Council agents, you learned of a base where Arakhn's efforts continued. You went there and discovered several Galaxy troops with the ability to shift into War Wolves. You defeated them and found another interesting e-mail: not from Arakhn, but from her mysterious ally.

It was essential that you learn the man's identity. You went to a Council communications hub, where you learned the e-mail's base of origin.

With the information in hand, you went to the base and learned that it was under the purview of none other than Requiem! He and Arakhn had been working together! Moreover, their experiments had created a race of Shadow Vampyri: vampyri with all the powers of a Galaxy soldier.

Your new knowledge weighed heavily upon you, but still, you needed to know more. You journeyed to the lab where Arakhn kept her experimental data and confiscated all of it, erasing it from the computers' hard drives afterward.

Even today, you cannot be sure how successful you were in eliminating the Shadow Vampyri. Although you arrested many of them and now hold the data that is necessary to their creation, it is unknown how many shadowy legions Arakhn and Requiem may already have created. You can only maintain your efforts against them, and steel yourself against the future showdown that will surely come between the evil Nictus and Kheldians such as yourself.

You know that you'll need to become stronger in order to face whatever the Nictus have planned. You were encouraged to return after you had mastered more of your powers, around Security Level 35.

Find out what's going on in Arakhn's base

Scary Monsters
Part: One

Briefing

I've been trying to nail down Arakhn's main bases of operation, Character, and I think my informants have finally hit on one. It's located in Brickstown, and there's been heavy traffic reported there for the past few days. But here's the strange part: that traffic isn't all Council. According to my reports, Council members have been seen escorting Freakshow and stranger things into the base. We need to know what's going on there, Character. We need to know now.

Mission Acceptance

We need hard data on Arakhn's plans. I've never known her to do anything without a dark purpose in mind.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I'm counting on you to find out what Arakhn's up to in that base.

Mission Objective(s)

You hear a sound. Could it be... techno?

• Learn Arakhn's plans

Deep within Arakhn's base, you have defeated a gangster with Nictus powers.

Enemies

Council

Freakshow

Notable NPCs

• Shadow Tank Freak

Shadow Tank Freak

(before aggro): I feel... funny.
(aggroed): Now, this is what I call power!

The Dark Freak

Deep within Arakhn's base, you defeated a creature most foul. The Freakshow gangster you encountered seemed to have the powers of a Galaxy soldier, powers that, as far as you know can only be gained by the infusion of a Nictus fragment into the host.

Debriefing

A Freak? With Nictus powers? That's strange, Character. Strange and terrifying. With any luck, this base was performing isolated experiments.

Defeat the villains and search for clues

Scary Monsters
Part: Two

Briefing

You recall that strange Freakshow gangster you battled in Arakhn's base? The one with the Nictus powers? Well, I was hoping we'd seen the last of them, but it seems that hope was in vain. I've learned that a group of Freakshow are inhabiting a Council base over in Brickstown. I need you to get over there, defeat all the villains you find, and search for clues. We have to find out if Arakhn has any more of these Dark Freaks squirreled away somewhere.

Mission Acceptance

I'd like to assume this is just a lark for Arakhn, an experiment merely for the sake of curiosity. I'd like to, but I can't. I think this is the start of something big.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I need you to defeat every last one of those Dark Freaks.

Mission Objective(s)

A hyena-like laugh echoes off the walls.

• Defeat all villains in base
  • Seek clues

You defeated the villains and found an interesting e-mail.

Enemies

Freakshow

Shadow Freaks

(before aggro)
Shadow Freak 1: Nictus fragments are like cybernetics for the soul!
Shadow Freak 2: Tell it!

(on aggro)
Shadow Freak: We got more than enough power to deal with you!

E-mail from Arakhn

This e-mail doesn't seem to have been sent yet. It reads:

'My friend:

'The initial tests on the Freakshow seem to be going as planned. With your approval, I will be proceeding to Stage Two.

'Arakhn'

Debriefing

So, these Nictus-infused Freakshow are part of a larger plan. It seems that Arakhn is content with her efforts thus far, and is ready to push the project forward. I only wish I knew who she was writing that letter to. Whoever her partner in crime is, we'll have to root him out. If he has access to the same Nictus fragments Arakhn is using to enhance the Freakshow, he's as great a threat as she is.

Find out where Arakhn's experiments are taking place

Interrogate Council agents

Scary Monsters
Part: Three

Briefing

I'm pretty troubled by that e-mail you found, Character. It seems Arakhn's experiments on the Freakshow are just part of a greater plan, and she's ready to move onto the second stage. That means we need information, and we need it fast. We need to know where Arakhn's latest experiments are taking place.

Mission Acceptance

You've got to take to the street and interrogate some of Arakhn's soldiers. You can usually find Council agents in Brickstown.

Unnecessary Solicitation

We still don't know where to go looking for Arakhn's labs.

Ambush! Upon accepting the mission there will be an ambush by the Council.

Mission Objective(s)

• Interrogate Council agents
  • Defeat 30 Council

On one of the defeated agents, you found some orders.

Enemies

Council

Council orders

You found orders on one of the council agents you defeated. They read:

'The equipment is to be moved to Arakhn's new base at once, on my authority. Do not question me again.'

There are also a set of coordinates.

Defeat all villains in base

Unnecessary Solicitation

We know where Arakhn's new base is. Now we have to figure out what she's doing there.

Mission Objective(s)

An animal scream echoes up from the depths of these caves.

• Defeat all villains in base
  • Seek clues

You defeated the Council and found a clue.

Enemies

Council

Galaxy Adjutant 1

(before aggro): "Arakhn's ambitions have served us well."
(on aggro): "Strike me down, Character. I dare you."

Galaxy Adjutant 2

(before aggro): "I must admit I feel more powerful."
(on aggro): "You will not lay hands on our lady!"

Galaxy Archon

(before aggro): "We are a new breed of soldier. No! A new breed of Nictus!"
(on transformation): "I feel the beast burning inside my very soul!"

Anonymous e-mail

You found this e-mail on a computer in Arakhn's base. It reads:

'My dear: Your successes, as always, are legion. With your ambition and my cunning, I truly believe we can depose that old buffoon and take the Council for ourselves.

I must share a concern, however. The constant attacks of the Peacebringers and Warshades are impacting us greatly. Our numbers are dwindling. You must improve the conversion rate for those implanted with N-Fragments, and quickly.'

Regrettably, there is no signature.

Debriefing

Well, the plot thickens. I've never seen enemies like the ones you described! And I imagine no one else has either. But what's even more troubling is this alliance Arakhn seems to be building with some unnamed Council rogue. If they're truly planning to take over the Council together, we've got a problem of unparalleled proportions on our hands!

Figure out where Arakn's ally sent the e-mail from

Scary Monsters
Part: Four

Briefing

We need to know who Arakhn's ally within the Council is. If she's truly plotting a coup with this person, his identity is essential to thwarting it! I've located a Council communications hub. If you get inside, you may be able to figure out what base Arakhn's ally sent that e-mail from. That'll get us one step closer to fingering him.

Mission Acceptance

There won't be any strange creatures for you to defeat this time. Just get in, get the information, and get out.

Unnecessary Solicitation

The communications hub may get us closer to unmasking Arakhn's ally within the Council.

Mission Objective(s)

The communications hub is well-staffed, and security is tight. Getting this info won't be easy.

• Get info about Arakhn's ally
  • Find origin of e-mail

You have the information you came for.

Enemies

Council

The ally's base

After hacking into the computer network at the Council's communications hub, you have uncovered the origin of the e-mail from Arakhn's ally.

Debriefing

Good work, Character. Now we know where Arakhn's ally sent his e-mail from. I suppose there's only one more thing to do: you've got to go to that base and see who this mysterious ally of hers is.

Unmask Arakhn's ally

Scary Monsters
Part: Five

Briefing

Thanks to your perseverance, we know the location of Arakhn's ally. Now all you need to do is unmask him.

Mission Acceptance

We need conclusive evidence of this person's identity. Knowing who's working with Arakhn will be critical to preventing that black-hearted woman from taking over the Council.

Unnecessary Solicitation

We're no closer to learning the identity of Arakhn's mysterious ally.

Mission Objective(s)

You have a few suspicions about Arakhn's mysterious ally. You just hope they're not correct.

• Learn identity of Arakhn's ally
  • Defeat Archon Vyzir

You defeated the base's leader, and learned that his master is none other than Requiem!

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Vyzir (Council Dark Equinox Archon)

Galaxy Soldiers

(before aggro)
Galaxy 1: The nictus fragments have rendered Vyzir even more powerful!
Galaxy 2: Under the dark lord and his lady, we shall cover the Earth!

(on aggro) Galaxy 1: You shall not pass!

Archon Vyzir

(before aggro): The master's new gifts are most impressive!
(aggroed): I will defeat you for Requiem!

The Shadow Vampyr's story

When you defeated Archon Vyzir, he snarled:

'You are nothing compared to the combined might of Arakhn and Requiem! Someday they will topple the world, and you, foolish hero, will be lucky if you are alive to see it.'

Debriefing

So, Arakhn and Requiem are working together! I feared as much, Character, but I hoped that I was wrong. It looks like we have a long road ahead of us in combating their unified might. But first, we have to deal with these Shadow Vampyri you've discovered. They're a threat we can't afford to see loosed on this humble city. I'll see what I can learn from the vampyri you captured.

Get data about Arakhn's experiments

Scary Monsters
Part: Six

Briefing

Under interrogation, Archon Vyzir has revealed the location of a disused Rikti base used by both Requiem and Arakhn to house their experimental data. This base is unknown even to the Center, or so I am told. If you can infiltrate the base, you can likely recover critical data regarding Arakhn's implantation of Nictus fragments into various hosts. At the worst, that data will provide us with valuable information about how to fight them. At best, it'll cripple her efforts entirely.

Mission Acceptance

According to Vyzir, Arakhn's experiments were rife with complications. So, there's a real chance that confiscating that data will set her back to square one.

Unnecessary Solicitation

We need that data on Arakhn's experiments. We have to know what we're up against!

Mission Objective(s)

Arakhn and Requiem have no doubt had to be cautious to keep their alliance from the Center. This old Rikti base provides them the perfect getaway.

• Infiltrate underground lab
  • 6 computers to hack

You have recovered all the data!

Enemies

Council

(Galaxy members only)

Dark Equinox Archon

before aggro: "Someone has trespassed within our base."
on aggro: "We Dark Vampyri may be few in number, but our power is great!"

Arakhn's experiments

The data you stole from the secret lab details the experiments Arakhn has performed with her Nictus Fragment technology. Not only are there details about the Dark Vampyr project and the Shadow Freaks, but there are details of other horrible projects as well. One section of the paper notes that the conversion rate of those implanted with Nictus Fragements into full Nictus is approaching 40%. The paper projects that soon, the Nictus will be able to replenish their numbers with converted Galaxy soldiers alone.

Debriefing

Excellent work, Character. I don't know how many Shadow Vampyri remain in the field, or whether Arakhn will be able to make more of them without the data you've captured. But I do know one thing: thanks to you, we're in a far better position to handle whatever she can throw at us.

This data is highly valuable, but the most important secret you've uncovered is Arakhn's alliance with Requiem. I have no doubt that together they will provide a most formidable challenge. I'm glad I have you to rely on in facing them down.

It would be a good idea to concentrate on improving your abilities for a while, though. Speak to me again when you're around Security Level 35. You should be powerful enough then to face the next set of challenges.

The Nictus Alliance (Level 35 - 40)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 18 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

Letter from Arakhn

You've kept the hard copy of a letter from Arakhn to Requiem, ordering him to kill his oldest friends. It's a chilling reminder of the time you helped expose:

The Nictus Alliance

It began with an infiltration mission. Although you already knew Requiem and Arakhn were working together, you had no hard evidence. You needed to find something concrete, so you could expose their alliance to the world. You found a list of their assets, but it was well-encrypted.

On a search for the decryption key, you entered another of Requiem's bases. You didn't find the key, but you did find a note from a potential Council defector. He seemed willing to help you tear the Nictus alliance apart.

You went to meet the defector, Adjutant Lanney, but you were too late to save him from his Council brethren. Fortunately, Lanney had the forethought to leave you a note. It explained that he had decided to betray the Council to save the life of Lillian Issan, a bold reporter who had tried to dig too deeply into the Council's affairs. You were appalled. In addition to being a reporter, Lillian also happened to be Shadowstar's daughter!

You went at once to the lab where Lillian was being held, only to discover that she had already been moved. Luckily, she too had left you a message. She had uncovered the Council's latest decryption key, and had left it for you to find. With the key in hand, you were able to translate the entire list of Requiem and Arakhn's assets, which was quite lengthy and detailed.

You were ready to expose the information, but there was one step left. The list revealed one of Requiem's front companies was being used to store various personal documents, including records of his dealings with Arakhn. If you could get your hands on that information, you could unravel many twisted Nictus plots, including, perhaps, the kidnapping of Lillian Issan. You journeyed to the company and found Requiem's troops locked in battle with the loyal servants of the Center. You recovered several incriminating documents, but, alas, Lillian was nowhere to be found. She was in the Center's hands!

The Center had no intention of allowing his failure to control his minions to become public knowledge. He had kidnapped Lillian away from Requiem's men, with the intention of killing her unless you returned all the evidence you had uncovered.

You had no choice but to infiltrate the Center's base and extract Lillian Issan, for you could not make a deal with someone as untrustworthy as the Center. Now, Lillian is safely home with her mother, Shadowstar. The Center is licking his wounds. And Arakhn and Requiem are gearing up for the biggest showdown the Council has seen in quite some time.

When this hits, it's going to be big. You were strongly encouraged to increase your own power to match the threats you'll soon face, and were encouraged to return with you'd been tested at around Stature Level 40.

Expose the Council's greatest secret

The Nictus Alliance
Part: One

Briefing

Character, you are in a unique position to recognize the grave threat that Requiem and Arakhn represent to this planet. Humans may understand the evil of the Nictus, but I do not believe they truly comprehend their abilities. For a long time, I have hoped that the obvious enmity between the Council's Nictus would keep them from joining forces against us. Now, that hope is gone. According to what we have learned, Requiem and Arakhn are working together, and have been for some time.

We can operate in a vacuum no more. To stop the Nictus from destroying this world, we must have the assistance of all her heroes. We must expose the Council's greatest secret for all the world to see.

Mission Acceptance

I have learned of a Council base where Requiem stores much of his most sensitive information. I hope that there you may find some proof of his relationship to Arakhn.

Unneccesary Solicitation

We must expose the Nictus alliance! Even a shred of proof will help.

Mission Objective(s)

Requiem runs a tight ship. You can expect to meet a firm resistance

• Search base for information
  • Seek Clues

You have the information you seek.

Enemies

Council

Encrypted list

You found this encrypted list in one of Requiem's bases. It seems to contain a great deal of information, some of which is almost certainly the coordinates of bases loyal to Requiem and Arakhn. Unfortunately, you'll need a decryption key before it's of any use.

Debriefing

It's not much, Character, but it's a start. I commend you. With this list, we're one step closer to exposing the Nictus alliance. Now, if only we had the decryption key!

Find a decryption Key

The Nictus Alliance
Part: Two

Briefing

That encrypted list you found looks like it contains a lot of information. The only trouble is, we can't read it. I'm going to have to send you in to another of Requiem's bases. If we don't find some kind of decryption key, this information you found will be useless forever.

Mission Acceptance

If the Council knows what we're looking for, they're likely to alter or destroy the decryption key. So you had better arrest every villain in the place, to keep them guessing about our true intent.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Have you found anything yet?

Mission Objective(s)

An alarm sounds. Security has definitely been tightened.

• Defeat all villains in base

After defeating the villains, you found a note in your pocket.

Enemies

Council

The defector's note

After defeating a base full of Council villains, you found a strange note in your pocket. It reads:

'I have served Requiem and Arakhn loyally, for more years than I care to remember. Though it is difficult for me, I am ready to tear their alliance down. I have information I believe will be of utmost interest to you.

'Adjutant Lanney'

There is also a time and meeting place on the note.

Debriefing

You didn't get the decryption key, but that note you found may well lead us to it. If we can believe this Adjutant Lanney, he has potent information about his masters. Now, we have to get to him before the Council does!

Meet with the defector

The Nictus Alliance
Part: Three

Briefing

I don't know whether we can trust this Adjutant Lanney, but his offer of information is the best lead we have. I want you to meet with the defector and see what information he can offer us. But be wary, Character. If the Council has learned of his plans, they will certainly come after him.

Mission Acceptance

Adjutant Lanney asked that you meet him at the old Gallatin Investments office. You had better hurry.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Have you found Adjutant Lanney yet?

Mission Objective(s)

The moment you step through the door you know something is wrong. The Council is already here!

• Find Adjutant Lanney
  • Seek clues

You were too late to save Adjutant Lanney, but at least you found his last message to you.

Enemies

Council

Lanney's last words

Behind a painting in the abandoned office, you found this note from Adjutant Lanney:

'I hope I will be able to tell you this myself. But the Council is watchful, and I mean for this information to survive. I was first approached by the reporter, Lillian Issan. I am certain you have heard of her. She had become intrigued by the alliance between Requiem and Arakhn, which she had learned of from her mother. She hoped to be the one to bring the story to the world.

'I was charmed by her confidence, enough to conceal her interest from my masters. Sadly, the others she approached were not as kind. Lillian Issan has been kidnapped by the Council! In saving her, I hope to redeem my own sorry existence.'

Debriefing

Did you say Lillian? Lillian's been kidnapped? That is terrible! We can't abandon our mission, Character. But one thing is certain: I won't see Lillian Issan fall victim to the Council!

Get Lillian back

The Nictus Alliance
Part: Four

Briefing

Lillian's been kidnapped. Requiem and Arakhn are conspiring. We still don't have proof of their activities, and a man lost his life trying to help us! I'm glad I have you to rely on in a time like this, Character. Fortunately, Adjutant Lanney left us a clue to Lillian's location before the Council disposed of him. If we can get her back safe and sound, we can concentrate on exposing the Nictus Alliance.

Mission Acceptance

According to Lanney's note, Arakhn is having Lillian moved to a secret lab for experimentation. I don't mind telling you, I'm deeply concerned for her. If we don't get Lillian back safely, I'm not sure I'll be able to live with myself.

Unneccesary Solicitation

We need Lillian back, Character. Tell me, what have you learned?

Mission Objective(s)

This underground lab contains all the equipment Arakhn will need to continue her ghastly Nictus fragment experiments.

• Find Lillian Issan
  • Locate Lillian Issan

You didn't find Lillian, but at least she managed to get the decryption key to you.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Yvir (Dark Equinox Archon) (Boss)

Archon Yvir Dialogue

Before Combat: "We may have to keep moving Issan. Character isn't the only one interested in her."
Start of Combat: "You will never find the reporter!"

Decryption key

Though Lillian Issan was moved before you arrived at her prison, she did manage to leave behind a Council decryption key she had uncovered during her investigations.

Debriefing

That Lillian. Well, I've got to hand it to her: the girl has spirit. The decryption key she left should give us everything we need to translate that list of bases that are part of the Nictus alliance. We're one step closer to exposing Requiem and Arakhn, thanks to her.

Get the data

The Nictus Alliance
Part: Five

Briefing

I've run that list you found through the decryption program Lillian left for us. Character, the amount of information on that list is staggering! Bases that are part of the Nictus alliance. Front companies for Requiem's financial dealings. Sources for Arakhn's scientific equipment. The list goes on and on! This is exactly the sort of proof we've been looking for, Character. But there's one more thing for you to do.

According to this list, Requiem kept a lot of his personal mail at a front company called Frontline Securities. It seems he didn't fully trust Arakhn, and he wanted to keep a record of their dealings in case she one day betrayed him. Once we expose this list, I'm sure Requiem will crash the place. So if we're to ever get our hands on that data, we have to do it now.

Mission Acceptance

The information at that front company could tell us a lot about the recent activities of the Nictus. It may even tell us where Lillian's been taken!

Unneccesary Solicitation

We need to investigate that front company before Requiem has a chance to crash it.

Mission Objective(s)

The place is in a flurry of activity. It appears Requiem has already learned of your investigations.

• Defeat all at front company
  • 3 files to find

You have defeated the Council and gained precious information.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Kalmer (Council Galaxy Archon)
• Archon Yvir (Council Dark Equinox Archon)

You cannot escape

Vortex Cor Leonis Grenade (before aggro): The Center sees all. You cannot escape his wrath!
Vortex Cor Leonis Grenade (on aggro): You will never recover the girl!

Battling Council

(before aggro)
Archon Kalmer: For Lord Requiem!
Vortex Cor Leonis Adjutant: For the Center!

Archon Yvir

(on aggro): You will never find the reporter!

A chilling missive

You found this disturbing letter while ransacking Requiem's files. It reads:

'My friend:

The time of our victory approaches, but there is a regrettable matter I must put before you. That matter is Nosferatu and Vandal. They are powerful allies now, and I think you are right that they will support us against the Center when the time comes, but they are not like us and may waver should they come to know the full extent of our plans. This cannot be allowed. The only solution will be to eliminate them before it comes to that. Eliminate them, or convert them to Nictus.

I know that the three of you share a strong camaraderie, and dare I say even friendship, but their power could upset everything. When the time is right, I trust I can rely on you to perform this most important task. I know you have the strength to perform this most regrettable duty.

Your friend and mentor,

Arakhn'

Kidnapped again!

When you defeated Archon Kalmer, he snarled:

'The Center has your precious reporter! He will not permit word of his minions' duplicity to reach the public! You will surrender all the evidence you uncovered, or Lillian Issan will die!

Debriefing

You did well, Character. We now have precious information that will help us to thwart Requiem and Arakhn. Of course, that's small consolation for the fact that Lillian is now in the Center's hands! We've got to get her back!

Extract Lillian

The Nictus Alliance
Part: Six

Briefing

The Center has Lillian, and he says he'll kill her if we don't surrender the evidence about Requiem's alliance with Arakhn. I guess he doesn't want the world to know he's been duped. Now, we can't risk Lillian's life. But we also have an obligation to prevent the danger Requiem and Arakhn pose to this planet. In my heart, I know that if we give into the Center now, we'll be compromising our integrity and our ability to defend this world. So, you're going to have to extract Lillian. I don't expect it to be easy; the Center's special guard, the Ascendants, are sure to be there in force. But it's the only way to live up to all our obligations.

Mission Acceptance

I urge you to be most cautious, Character. Lillian is a very special person.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Please hurry, Character. Lillian's life is in danger.

Mission Objective(s)

You'll have to be cautious. If Lillian is killed you don't know how you can ever face Shadowstar again.

• Rescue Lillian Issan

You rescued Lillian!

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Lillian Issan (NPC Hostage)

Lillian Issan

(on rescue): Hey, Character! Did you get that key? Did my mom send you?

Debriefing

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you, Character. Lillian is safe, and we are free to publish our information about the Nictus alliance. I imagine this will change things within the Council drastically. Most likely for the worse. I hope I can rely on your help in the troubling times ahead. I know there's no one I'd rather have at my side.

We may have a little time yet before one side or the other takes action. You should take this time to improve your powers and find new abilities to better face this maelstrom. With luck, you may be able to reach Security Level 40 before events begin to unfold.

The Nictus Insurrection (Level 40 - 45)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 13 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

A Map of Nictus Earth

This 70 year old map shows the Nictus's plans to change Earth into a new homeworld for their kind. You keep it now as a reminder of

The Nictus Insurrection

It began when observers noticed a frenzy of activity within the Council. Now that the Center had learned of Arakhn and Requiem's plans, the Nictus had moved them forward, and rumors of an underground civil war within the Council were surfacing everywhere. You recovered confirmation of the growing battle from a Council base. Both Vandal and Nosferatu had joined with the Nictus out of loyalty to Requiem, and the Center's troops were already sorely pressed. Even if it meant leaving the Center in power, you knew that the Nictus could not be allowed to take over control of the Council.

You already had evidence proving that Arakhn and Requiem planned to either kill or convert both Vandal and Nosferatu once they had cemented their control over the Council. The trick would be to get it where they could find it. You infiltrated a Council base under attack by Vandal's machines and planted the information. You learned soon afterwards that Vandal and his robots had switched sides, and were now working with the Center against the Nictus insurrection.

Before you could plant the evidence for Nosferatu, the Nictus made a bold counter-move by taking an office building hostage and demanding that you return the evidence. You met them head on and defused the situation instead of buckling in to their demands.

You next planted the evidence of the Nictus's planned betrayal for Nosferatu. Strangely, he didn't defect afterwards. Had the evidence been intercepted by one of Arakhn's agents?

You next received a letter from Nosferatu himself. It seems that he was sort of interested in becoming a Nictus, but was willing to change sides if you could defeat him in a fight. Afterwards, Nosferatu was true to his word. Though it stung to let him go free, he switched his support immediately. He also told you about a place where the Nictus kept many of their secrets.

You entered an old cavern where Galaxy troops guarded a map of the world. The secret map, over 70 years old, laid out Arakhn and Requiem's true plan: to use their forces to create a total Nictus dominion on Earth. A new Nictus homeworld under their control. Though you were able to put an end to their plans for now, you can only wonder what lengths they'll go to now to achieve their dire goals.

The final battle is coming. You were encouraged to increase your power to unheard of levels to face it, and asked to return when you were at least level 45.

Infiltrate a Nictus base and find out what's causing them so much trouble.

The Nictus Insurrection
Part: One

Briefing

Our people watching the Council tell us that there has been a frenzy of activity, and even open conflict. Now that the Center has learned of their treachery, Arakhn and Requiem have stepped up their plans. I fear that they may have begun their bid for control of the Council. If they win, humanity will lose. We have to know if the Nictus have started their insurrection, or if we still have some time. The only way to know for sure will be to infiltrate a Council communication base, and see what they're saying internally.

Mission Acceptance

If Arakhn has begun to make her play for power, we have to know. We can't let her win, even if that means helping the Center to keep control. The Center is a threat to freedom here on Earth, but Nictus are a threat to all life in the galaxy.

Unneccesary Solicitation

You can sneak through this one if you want, the important thing is getting the information.

Mission Objective(s)

The Council soldiers in here all look nervous, and you notice that there are no Vampyri, Warwolves, or Galaxy troops to be seen.

• Confirm Council rebellion
  • Snoop Council transmissions

You captured Council transmission records, proving that the Nictus have begun their insurrection.

Enemies

Council

Council activity records

You recovered these computer records of Council activity from one of their bases. They show a grim picture indeed. From the troop movements and actions assigned in the records, it looks like multiple bases have joined the Nictus. Both Vandal and Nosferatu have sided with their old leader, taking their robots and vampyri to aid Requiem and Arakhn's bid for power. The Void Hunters haven't chosen a side, and from the cash transfers made to their leaders, it looks like they've chosen to work for whoever will pay them. A few Galaxy troops and Warwolves have sided with the Center, but the vast majority of them are naturally aligned with their Nictus leaders. The Center's forces of soldiers and Ascendants are trying to prepare their defenses, but from what you can see it doesn't look like they'll have much of a chance.

Debriefing

The information you recovered has confirmed it. Sides have been chosen, and the battle for control of the Council has begun. Both Vandal and Nosferatu have sided with Requiem, their old boss, unbalancing the sides even further. It's unlikely that even the Center's crack Ascendant troops will be able to stop the Nictus' plans.

Unless we do something about it.

Drive a wedge between the Council factions

The Nictus Insurrection
Part: Two

Briefing

The Nictus have begun their battle for control of the Council. With Vandal's machines and Nosferatu's monsters added to their own Galaxy and Warwolf forces, Arakhn and Requiem are almost certain to win. We must deprive the Nictus of their allies in order to swing the fight around, and we've developed a plan to do just that. We recently discovered that Arakhn and Requiem had long-range plans to do away with both Vandal and Nosferatu once they'd established their hold over the Council. It's clear that neither Vandal or Nosferatu are aware of this. If we can plant this information where they're sure to find it, they'll change sides.

Mission Acceptance

We're sending you into an Ascendant base currently under attack by Galaxy troops supported by Vandal's robots. Your mission will be to plant proof of the Nictus' treachery where Vandal is sure to find it. You also must make sure that the rebels capture the base, so that Vandal has a chance to find the evidence, so you'll need to weaken the base's defenses by defeating the base leader and his direct underlings.

Unneccesary Solicitation

You have to plant the evidence, and quickly.

Take these files, and be sure to plant them at the base.

Evidence of Betrayal

These files show that Requiem and Arakhn had already planned to kill Vandal once he was no longer useful to them and take control of his robots, or convert him into a Nictus like themselves.

Mission Objective(s)

Battles rage throughout this base.

• Plant evidence of betrayal
  • Plant evidence, Defeat Archon Dunwin

You planted the evidence and weakened the base's defenses.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Dunwin (Council Vortex Cor Leonis Archon, Boss)

Ambush

Galaxy #1 (before aggro): They're putting up a strong defense.
Galaxy #2 (before aggro): Their defenses will fall soon.

Galaxy: (on aggro) This is a Council matter, Character. We'll take care of you Kheldians later.

Battling Council

Darkwolf (before aggro): This battle will soon be over. Vortex Cor Leonis Sonic (before aggro): We will fight to the end!

Darkwolf (on aggro): You should not be here! Vortex Cor Leonis Sonic (on aggro): This is a Council matter!

Archon Dunwin

(before aggro): This base must hold!
(on aggro): I'll defeat any foe!

Debriefing

We've gotten reports that Council robots have started switching sides in mid-battle. Vandal must have found the evidence you planted and made up his mind already. That leaves Nosferatu. If we can make him change sides, we might be able to stop the Nictus' rebellion and let the Center clean up the mess.

Defeat Council office invasion

The Nictus Insurrection
Part: Three

Briefing

We've just gotten a report that War Wolves and Galaxy soldiers have overrun an office building in Peregrine Island! The leader has stated that you have information they deem critical, and are threatening to massacre civilians and set off bombs unless you present it to them. Obviously, Requiem and Arakhn have realized that we planted the evidence of their plot against Vandal, and now they want to get the rest of the evidence before we can get it in front of Nosferatu. We can't let them have that evidence, but we also can't let them kill those people. The only choice is to stop them. If you can eliminate one of the major threats, other heroes and the police can handle the rest, and we can get back to defeating the Council.

Mission Acceptance

There are three ways to handle this:
You could find and defuse the bombs. There should be 8 of them, located all around the city area.
You could rescue the hostages. We think that there are about 6 hostages who weren't able to evacuate in time.
Or you could defeat the War Wolf leaders. That should throw their packs into disarray, making them easier to defeat. There should be about 4 pack leaders scattered throughout the battlefield.
Any one of those should be enough. I'll leave the choice up to you.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Have you taken care of the situation on Walsh street?

Mission Objective(s)

All other floors of this building have been cleared out. Clearing out this floor is up to you.

• Stop Council office invasion
  • 6 hostages, 8 bombs, 4 Pack Leaders

You've eliminated a major part of the Council office invasion threat. Other heroes can handle it from here.

Enemies

Council

(Warwolves)

War Wolf Pack Leader

War Wolf Pack Leader (before aggro): I smell Character!
War Wolf Pack Leader (on aggro): Graaah! Kill Character!

Hostage text 1

Hostage: Thanks, Character. If you ever need investment advice, let me know!

Hostage text 2

Hostage: You saved me, Character!

Hostage text 3

Hostage: Here I thought the worst thing today was going to be my 10 o'clock meeting.

Debriefing

The situation in the office building has been taken care of, thanks to you. Now, we must return our attention to breaking up the Nictus' alliances within the Council. If we can now get Nosferatu to change sides, the Nictus' coup will fail for certain.

Plant evidence of betrayal for Nosferatu

The Nictus Insurrection
Part: Four

Briefing

The time has come to deliver the evidence of the Nictus' planned betrayal to Nosferatu. That should make him switch sides as well, which will put an end to Arakhn and Requiem's plans. This may almost be over. We could be back to fighting the Council normally in a matter of days.

Mission Acceptance

Once the evidence has been planted, we should see Nosferatu pull his Vampyri back quickly. You've done this before, so this should be no problem for you.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Once the evidence has been planted, we should see Nosferatu pull his Vampyri back quickly.

Take these files, and be sure to plant them at the base.

Evidence of Betrayal

These files show that Requiem and Arakhn had already planned to kill Nosferatu once he was no longer useful to them and take control of his Vampyri, or convert him into a Nictus like themselves.

Mission Objective(s)

This base is in the middle of a pitched battle.

• Plant evidence for Nosferatu
  • Plant evidence, Defeat Archon Bransen

You planted the evidence and weakened the base's defenses.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Bransen (Ascendant Archon) (Boss)

Ambush

Galaxy #1 (before aggro): They are pushing us back!
Galaxy #2 (before aggro): We must get re-inforcements!

Galaxy: (on aggro) Character! We must stop the Kheldian!

Battling Council

Darkwolf (before aggro): We must secure the area!
Vortex Cor Leonis Sonic (before aggro): need info

Darkwolf (on aggro): Your presence is unwanted here!
Vortex Cor Leonis Sonic (on aggro): The Center will hold against all!

Archon Bransen

(before aggro) Need Info
(on aggro): We would have won if you hadn't shown up!

Debriefing

You planted the evidence, but we haven't seen any change. Maybe Nosferatu didn't find it? Maybe Arakhn had an agent in place who found it first? I don't know. Something's gone wrong, and unless we find it and fix it, the Nictus could win with Nosferatu's help.

Change Nosferatu's mind by force

The Nictus Insurrection
Part: Five

Briefing

We found out why Nosferatu didn't change sides after you planted the evidence of the plot against him. He already knew about the plot. We received this:

"Character,
I thank you for your concern, but to tell the truth, I am somewhat interested in becoming a Nictus. Unlike Vandal, I do not see that as a kind of death, but as an interesting new state of being.
However, I am not locked into the idea. I would like to see just how good you Kheldians really are. Also, I could use a good fight to test the limits of the work I've done on my own body. So, let us arrange a simple test: If you can defeat me and allow me to remain free, I will change sides in this struggle and assist the Center. Until you do, I shall support Requiem, and by extension Arakhn and the Nictus. I have enclosed a location I can be found at.
Bring allies.
You will need them.
-Nosferatu"

If we want to stop the Nictus insurrection, you're going to have to defeat an Arch-villain. Can you handle it?

Mission Acceptance

Nosferatu is the first of the Vampyri, and is still the strongest. He's used all his experimental techniques on himself first. On top of that, he has over half a century of experience and cunning on his side. Bring all the allies you can, he won't give any quarter.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Bring all the allies you can for this. Nosferatu won't give any quarter.

Mission Objective(s)

A feeling of dread washes over you as you step into this darkest of places

• Defeat Nosferatu
  • Defeat Nosferatu

You defeated Nosferatu, convincing him to switch sides!

Enemies

Council

(Vampyri)

Notable NPCs

• Nosferatu (Archvillain)

Nosferatu

(before aggro): I am waiting, Character. I hope that this battle will be a good one.
(on aggro): I have been following your exploits, Character. I hope your abilities were not overstated.

'A bit of warning, friend...'

After the battle with Nosferatu, he had a few words before you parted ways:

'The battle was well fought. I haven't had such a workout in a long time. I will keep my word. My Vampyri will change sides, and help to bring the Nictus down. Confidentially, I think it is probably best. I think of Requiem as a leader, but Arakhn has such power over him. I do not like seeing Requiem following another. From what little I remember of human emotion, I would think perhaps he's smitten with her. The hold Arakhn has over him, I find it disturbing.

Particularly with what I've learned about their long term plans. Let me tell you of a place where the Nictus keep some of their many secrets. I will leave investigating it up to you.

Now you must excuse me. I have a betrayal to plan.'

Debriefing

Nosferatu was true to his word. The Vampyri are switching sides, and the Nictus are on the defensive. The Center should be able to put down the rebellion on his own now. However, this gives us an opportunity to check out what Nosferatu told you about this 'place where the Nictus keep secrets'. Give us some time to make sure it's not a trap, and then let's see if we can discover what Nosferatu was hinting at.

Investigate the caves Nosferatu told you about

The Nictus Insurrection
Part: Six

Briefing

Arakahn and Requiem's rebellion is ending. Now that Vandal and Nosferatu have turned against them, the Nictus no longer have the forces to defeat the Center. Speaking of Nosferatu, the location he told you about doesn't seem to be a Council base. It wasn't anyplace we'd heard of. It seems to be some natural caverns and nothing more. However, there are reports coming in from the Coast Guard of Council troops fighting the Nictus in the area. Nosferatu may have been telling the truth, but the only way to find out is to investigate.

Mission Acceptance

Nosferatu said there were secrets in those caves, but not what kind of secrets, or who guarded them. If the Center's troops are moving on the same location then we can assume Nosferatu also told him about these secrets, and that the Center thinks it's important enough to send forces out there. You must capture those secrets, and then keep them safe by defeating any opponents in those caverns who could reveal that what we found.

Unneccesary Solicitation

You must find the secrets that Nosferatu talked about and clear the caves out so that neither the Nictus nor the Center know what we've found.

Mission Objective(s)

These caves are dry and cool. Their ancient silence is broken by the sounds of gunfire.

• Clear secret caves
  • Find secrets

You uncovered the secrets of the cave, and found the true plan behind the Nictus' rebellion.

Enemies

Council

(Galaxy troops)

Notable NPCs

• Archon Venner (Galaxy Archon, Boss)

Ambush

Equinox Parasite #1 (before aggro): I am curious what they fight so hard to protect.
Equinox Parasite #2 (before aggro): We shall pry their secrets from them!

Equinox Parasite: (on aggro) It is Character! We must stop the Kheldian!

Battling Council

Galaxy (before aggro): You shall get no further!
Equinox Parasite (before aggro): Everything and everyone here belongs to the Center. He is your master!

Galaxy (on aggro): Leave no one alive!
Equinox Parasite (on aggro): The Center will hold!

Archon Venner

(before aggro) Tell Arakhn that we have been discovered!
(on aggro): We have guarded these records for years. We will not fail now!

A map of a new Earth

This map of the world is over seventy years old, and printed in Italian. It shows the entire world, with locations marked all over, forming a pattern. Each of these locations have notes written by them in Khelda, the native language of the Kheldians and Nictus. The notes contain estimations based on several factors: The estimated number of shadow seeds needed to ensure coverage of the region, an estimation of the population who could survive conversion into a Nictus, the rate at which Nictus can arrive through the shadow cysts, and the estimated window during which Earth's defenders would have a chance to stop them, all factor in to the estimated time for total Nictus control of the Earth.

Debriefing

Arakhn and Requiem's bid for control of the Council is over. The two of them have gone into hiding, their forces are on the run, and the Center is cementing his control over the Council again. The Nictus were stopped, and the Council as a whole has been weakened. Perhaps not the cleanest victory, but we did what was necessary for our people and the people of Earth.

We had never known exactly what Arakhn's master plan was, but now I think I understand. The Nictus needed the Council as a power base they could use to establish themselves all across the world. Now that that plan's been foiled, I wonder what they'll do next?

They'll no doubt bide their time for a while. You'll need to be more powerful than ever in order to take them on. Return when you're at least Security Level 45. We can only hope that you'll be ready then.

The Final Darkness (Level 45 - 50)

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 22 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

A Shattered Shadow Seed

These pieces of a Shadow Seed crystal bring back memories of a desperate final battle against the Nictus that you remember as:

The Final Darkness

It all began when Journalist Lillian Issan, Shadowstar's daughter and the next in line to assume the role, took it on herself to find where Requiem and Arakhn had gone into hiding after their failed attempt to take over the Council. Unfortunately, she drew their attention, and now needed an emergency rescue. You went to save her, but found that she had already been abducted from the Nictus troops by the Center's Ascendant personal guard. You also found some angry correspondence between Requiem and Arakhn. In the wake of their failure, signs of real stress were showing in their relationship.

You were able to rescue Lillian from the Center, but what she'd discovered was shocking. Arakhn and Requiem had smuggled Shadow Seeds into Paragon City. If they could plant the seeds and protect them long enough for them to grow into full Shadow Cysts, they could bring their brethren down from the Cosmos and flood Paragon City with Nictus. You also found an intercepted message from Arakhn to Requiem filled with pointed words.

You investigated the cargo ship the Nictus had supposedly smuggled the Shadow Seeds into the city aboard. There, you found Galaxy troops and Warwolves waiting for you, and something far worse: a Shadow Cyst crystal, already growing! You destroyed the crystal, but knew that there were more.

You rushed to search for the Shadow Seeds, and found two more of them already growing in a Council base that was still under Nictus control. You destroyed two shadow seeds before they could grow into a full Cyst, and found the location where the next crystals were. You also found out that those Crystals would be guarded by Requiem himself.

Celebrations are sprang up all over the world when the news of your capture of Requiem hit the press. Though the recognition was nice, the more important aspect of your victory was the destruction of the four Shadow Seeds requiem was guarding, and the angry letter he was in the process of writing to Arakhn that also told you where you could find her, and the last of the Shadow Seeds.

You faced Arakhn in a nearly complete Shadow Cyst, and prevailed. Both she and Requiem are in custody, awaiting a trial that could turn the whole city into a media circus. Though the remaining Nictus are returning to the Council, it will be years before the Council can present a threat like it once did. Some Kheldians are staying on Earth to continue the battle here; others are planning to leave Earth to continue the battle with the Nictus on other worlds. All of them will carry the tale of your courage with them, an example of heroism to last to the end of time.

Rescue Lillian Issan from whatever trouble she's found.

The Final Darkness
Part: One

Briefing

Lillian Issan will be the new Shadowstar one day, if she can keep herself from being killed. In the aftermath of the Nictus insurrection within the Council, Arakhn and Requiem have gone into hiding, and Lillian has taken it upon herself to find them. Not the wisest course at any time, but absolutely foolish right now. She's dropped out of contact after she said she was going to investigate an old base that had been cleaned out weeks ago. I fear that Lillian has gotten herself in more trouble than she anticipated, and needs to be found.

Mission Acceptance

Since Lillian will assume the role of Shadowstar one day, she takes it upon herself to go beyond her job as a reporter and dig into the plans of the our enemies. It probably makes her feel like she's doing her part, I just wish she'd use more caution. You must find Lillian and bring her back safely. Also, look for any clues that might help her investigation. She puts herself in too much danger, but we do need to know what the Nictus are up to.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Lillian's safety is the most important thing, but you must also recover the information she was after. She puts herself in too much danger, but we do need to know what the Nictus are up to.

Mission Objective(s)

You can feel an all-too familiar energy in this place. There are Nictus here.

• Rescue Lillian Issan
  • Find Lillian Issan, 1 piece of information

Editor's Note:

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

You discovered that Lillian has been taken from the Nictus by the Center!

Enemies

Council

(Darkwolves and Galaxies)

Galaxy Archon

(before aggro): Where did the reporter go? Requiem said we were to keep her alive, and I shall be very cross if she is otherwise.

(on aggro): As if we hadn't had enough trouble today. Is killing Character too much to ask?

Personal Papers

These documents you found in a Council base contain some of Requiem's personal documents, including recent messages to Arakhn:

'My Lady Arakhn,
I know that we are on an accelerated schedule, but you ask too much of my men. Perhaps if we'd had a more accurate time for the Peacebringers to arrive, or if you had found or made an opportunity to assasinate the Center as we had planned, we would not have been brought to such a wretched state now. You forced me to draw plans against my own men, yet you never took the Center's life in all these years. All the opportunities you had to silence him, all these years you were close enough to put a blade to his throat, and yet you spared his life at every turn. There is only one explanation: You have feelings for him. You always have, do not deny it. Even before you joined Arachnos, I saw how you and he would court over wine at your villa. In my old life as Ridolfo Uzzano, as a flunky to Il Duce, I watched the two of you. I was there. I saw. I know.
Requiem'

An operation failure report

This solemnly worded report explains how the Reporter Lillian Issan infiltrated the base before they could receive an unnamed shipment, was captured, and was then abducted by the Center's Ascendant troops. The author takes full responsibility for the failure, but does point out that he was able to trace where the Ascendants took Lillian.

Debriefing

Why did the Center take Lillian? It doesn't make any sense. If he did capture her instead of killing her, then it means he has a plan for her, and needs her alive. That gives us some time to find her.

Rescue Lillian and find out what the Center wanted with her.

The Final Darkness
Part: Two

Briefing

We know where the Center has had his men take Lillian. What we don't know is why he did it or what he had planned for her. You must rescue Lillian before it's too late, and find out what the Center had in mind when he took her.

Mission Acceptance

Lillian will be the next Shadowstar someday, so her safety is paramount. However, we must also know why the Center was so interested in her, and why would he want her taken alive?

Unneccesary Solicitation

I'll feel much better once Lillian is safe and we know what this was about.

Mission Objective(s)

This small Council base is filled with the Ascendants, the personal guard of the Center.

• Save Lillian Issan
  • 2 clues to find, Rescue Lillian Issan

You rescued Lillian Issan and found out what she had discovered.

Enemies

Council

(Ascendants)

Ascendant Archon

(before aggro): I know that the Center is upset at our unit, but he gave us an easy assignment like this. Weird.

(on aggro): Oh, now I get it. You're here for the girl, right Character? This ain't so easy after all.

Lillian Issan

(on rescue): I sure seem to have a way with getting in trouble, Character.

'He called them Shadow Seeds'

After you rescued Lillian Issan, the intrepid reporter and future Shadowstar told you:

'Thanks for the rescue. This is getting to be a bad habit. Who would have guessed that snooping around the private armies of would-be world conquering megalomaniacs would be such a dangerous career?

Anyway, I found out something important. Arakhn and Requiem have been in hiding, but they haven't stopped their plans. I saw Requeim overseeing the arrival of something major, something they think will let them win even without the Council's troops behind them. They called them Shadow Seeds. They brought them in on a ship, but I don't know which one. I was caught before I was able to find out. Then the Center's troops came after me, I guess to find out what I'd learned,too.'

An intercepted personal message

This message from Arakhn to Requiem was intercepted and copied here by the Center's intelligence group. From the sounds of it, the Nictus aren't taking their defeat well:

'My Requiem,
I must assume that our recent set-backs have set your mind aflame, for there is no other reason I could conceive that would cause you to speak to me with such a tone. Has this alteration to our plans so snuffed out your wits? Of course I preserved the Center. Think past your crude world of strife, past your philosophy of battles pitting strength against strength. The Center's powers added to our own would have ensured our plans. I sought to preserve a resource you wished to throw away for what? Yes, the Kheldians have stopped our plans, and yes, the Center's men now seek us out. But we have more plans, my Requiem. We are not yet done.'

Shipping records

These shipping records show the lists of cargo ships entering and exiting Paragon city over the last few days. One ship in particular has been highlighted, a cargo vessel that left from Italy and arrived in Paragon City a few days ago. The words 'This is where they brought them in' are written next to the ship's name.

Debriefing

Shadow seeds? The nictus have smuggled shadow seeds into the city? This is worse than I'd thought. A shadow seed is made by melding together an encysted Nictus with certain rare crystals. If fed the right energy, it can create a 'Shadow cyst', a place where Nictus can live without a host. They can also cross between cysts instantly, even across interstellar distances. We'd suspected that there was a cyst somewhere in Italy, but if they're trying to make another one here in Paragon City, the results could be a disaster. We'll have to investigate that ship.

Investigate the cargo ship.

The Final Darkness
Part: Three

Briefing

The Nictus may be preparing to set up Shadow Cysts in Paragon City. If they were to accomplish this, they could flood the city with Nictus, creating a catastrophe on a scale beyond imagination. We have to know if they've been able to get shadow seeds into the city, and where they may have taken them. Thanks to your hard work, we know that the Center was very interested in a ship that came to Paragon from Italy, where there's long been rumored to be an active Shadow Cyst. We now have to find out if they've really got the seeds over here.

Mission Acceptance

If we have any luck at all, they won't really have any Shadow Seeds, just the threat of them. You can't take any chances though. If they do have a seed or a cyst, you must destroy it. Also keep your eyes open for any clues or information that might tell us about the next phase of their plan.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Be very thorough in that cargo ship. Who knows what could be lurking in there?

Mission Objective(s)

A growing shadow seems to gnaw at the interior of this lurching vessel.

• Search cargo ship
  • 2 clues to find, Destroy the Shadow Cyst

You destroyed one of the Shadow Cysts, and found vital information.

Enemies

Council

(Darkwolves and Galaxies)

Darkwolves

Darkwolf 1 (before aggro): I can feel it already! Darkwolf 2 (before aggro): Soon we'll be able to sweep through the city!

Darkwolf 1 (on aggro): There is no stopping the Nictus, Character!

Directions to danger

This slip of scratch paper was left in an empty packing container that once held at least one shadow seed. The paper has some scribbled directions written on it, showing where to take whatever was in the crates. You could probably use this to track down where the contents were taken.

Email on a damaged laptop

Though this email was supposed to be deleted, it looks like whoever was reading it didn't hit the return button, and instead blasted the laptop with some kind of power. The laptop is still working, and you can read the following:

'My Lady Arakhn,
'When I presented my plan to you, when I came crawling before you as a mere human seeking power, you knew that the Center's death would have to be part of that plan. We would need his resources, his talents, but we could never trust him to share our power. When you told me where to look to find the Shadow Cyst below Ravenna, you knew that this course could not be altered. And when I arrived before Il Duce, when I presented my services as Requiem and we began our plans, you accepted what the end of it all would be. A new world. A new rule. Our rule. I have never reneged. I have never forgotten. I am uncertain, however, if the same can be said for you.
- Requiem'

Debriefing

It's true. They do have Shadow Seeds. It will only be a matter of time before they plant them and let them take root. They've probably been planning this for weeks. With all the destraction and destruction caused by their attempted coup of the Council, no one saw it coming. They were probably hoping to have the full strength of the Council on their side to protect the seeds as they grew, but now they're desperate. This is going to be close, but the Nictus are desperate. This may be our chance to end their threat for a long time.

Look for Shadow Seeds in Nictus base.

The Final Darkness
Part: Four

Briefing

We think that the information you found has shown us a Council base still under Nictus control where the Shadow Seeds were taken. If we are lucky, they'll still be there. If we aren't lucky, then you'll need to find out where the Nictus have taken them.

Mission Acceptance

We don't know what you'll find in there, but if they have created a Shadow Cyst you must destroy it. You must also find out if they've already planted any more Shadow Seeds, and where they might have put them.

Unneccesary Solicitation

We don't know what you'll find in there, but if they have created a Shadow Cyst you must destroy it. You must also find out if they've already planted any more Shadow Seeds, and where they might have put them.

Mission Objective(s)

Long shadows cling to every corner of this base.

• 2 clues to find, 2 Shadow Cyst Crystals

You destroyed shadow cysts and found information to lead you to the final shadow seeds!

Enemies

Council

(Darkwolves and Galaxies)

Placement plans

The drawing here show the plans for placing one of two Shadow Cysts beneath the City. The location of only one of the two cysts is shown here.

An annotated letter

This letter was written by hand, and has numerous notes angrily penned over parts of it in another hand. Parts of the letter are almost obscured by angrily written phrases like 'She would dare!' or 'Curse her Harpy tongue!' Despite this, you can make out the following:

'My Requiem,

At times I now almost regret sending Ridolfo Uzanno to Ravenna. I had hoped you would gain enough strength. I had hoped you would survive. I had not dreamed that you would join with a Nictus as powerful as Dirge of Entropy, and perhaps that is the problem. Perhaps the bond between a Nictus so strong and a man so weak has created a creature too emboldened by it's power. Remember that I am the ruler of the Nictus, Requeim. I am the one who led us to this Earth. I refined fragmentation, I created the cysts where we can survive. You had plans only for temporal power within this world, I had plans to change this world forever and make it a new home for our kind. The Center's genius could have been our greatest asset, and you would tell me what to do with it! You short sighted fool! It is no wonder that our plans have come to naught with you at their helm!

- Arakhn'

Debriefing

You performed excellently in destroying the Cysts growing in that place, but I think those were just decoys. The plans you found show that they plan to place two more major cysts. We only know the location of one, but that's at least a start. What I fear is that the Nictus are desperate enough to guard those Cysts themselves. You may be facing some of the most powerful Nictus this galaxy has ever seen. You'd better get ready.

Defeat Requiem and destroy the Shadow Cyst he guards.

The Final Darkness
Part: Five

Briefing

We've found where the Nictus are setting up a major Shadow Cyst, based on the information you found last time. 4 Seeds, deep under the city. It gets worse, though. We think that Requiem himself is there, protecting them. In order to stop the Nictus, you will have to destroy those seeds and then battle Requiem himself.

Mission Acceptance

You will need allies, and good ones if you want to have any chance against something like Requiem. I wish you the best of luck.

Unneccesary Solicitation

You will need allies, and good ones if you want to have any chance against something like Requiem. I wish you the best of luck.

Mission Objective(s)

Darkness and cold inhuman malice seep from every wall of this place.

• Find information, 4 Shadow Cyst Crystals, Defeat Requiem

You defeated Requiem himself and destroyed the shadow cyst crystals!

Enemies

Council

(Darkwolves)

Notable NPCs

• Requiem (Archvillain)

Requiem dialogue

Before Combat: To have come so far, and now to stand on the cusp of this moment. That is what is good in life.
Combat Start: Character, I shall make of your death a requiem composed of your final agony.

An unfinished letter

This is a draft of an unfinished letter, written by Requiem to Arakhn. It reads:

'My Lady Arakhn,

You speak of the Center's power as if it were irreplaceable. Now I realize that nothing has changed in these 70 years. Even now you let your feelings for him cloud your mind. I, who have burned away all trace of my former human weaknesses am now brought low because I trusted you had done the same. You said you would convert him or kill him. You have done neither, and he has instead helped the Kheldians to shatter our plans and tear our schemes assunder.

Until now.

When we are done and this world is under our rule, the Nictus will need a leader if we are to stave off the certain Peacebringer assault and quell the growing number of Warshades. If you show such weakness again, you shall not live to challenge me for the title.'

More important than the text is that it has the location a courier is to deliver the letter written on it. This could lead you right to Arakhn and the rest of the Shadow Seeds.

Debriefing

This is a day of celebration around the world, if for no other reason that Requiem's capture. Unfortunately, our job still isn't done. We've been going over the manifest of the cargo ship, and found that there were originally 13 shadow seeds aboard. After you destroyed the Cyst Requiem was protecting, that leaves 6 unnaccounted for. The instructions on the letter you found may tell us where they are, and what you'll have to face to destroy them.

Destroy the last Shadow Cyst

The Final Darkness Part: Six

Briefing

Celebrations over Requiem's capture have broken out all over the world, but it will be a short-lived celebration if we can't stop Arakhn. We have the location where she's overseeing the last of the Shadow Seeds, trying to create another cyst. That cannot be allowed to happen. You must defeat Arakhn and destroy the last Shadow Cyst. Take all the allies you can find. This is the end.

Mission Acceptance

Arakhn's back is to the wall, this is her last chance and she knows it. Be ready for anything. And good luck.

Unneccesary Solicitation

Arakhn's back is to the wall, this is her last chance and she knows it. Be ready for anything. And good luck.

Mission Objective(s)

You feel a strange dark energy reaching through this place into the dark spaces of the void.

• 6 Shadow Cyst Crystals, Defeat Arakhn

You Defeated Arakhn and destroyed the last Shadow Seed.

Enemies

Council

(Galaxies)

Notable NPCs

• Arakhn (Archvillain)

Arakhn dialogue

Before Combat: It is almost done, and soon I shall welcome the cleansing flood of shadow from the stars.
Combat Start: You have defied our power for too long, Character. Now I shall end this miserable existence with the full power of the Nictus!

Debriefing

It's over. The Nictus have been captured, and their centuries of plotting foiled. The Council is rebuilding, and the leaderless Galaxy and War wolf soldiers are re-joining it, but they may never be as strong again. People all over the world are celebrating your victory, Character. There's still much to do on Earth, but some of us will leave this world soon. There are other places in the cosmos where the Nictus gather and grow strong. In each of those places, when things look bleak, I know that your name will be spoken, and the story of your battle against the Nictus on Earth will be retold to inspire a thousand generations to come.

Side Missions

Start on the path of a Warshade

Briefing

Are you feeling dizzy? Disoriented? That's to be expected. The first true merger is difficult both for the host and the Kheldian. And now that you've experienced a true merger, that's what you are now. By accepting an equal merger instead of a hostile possession, you are a Nictus no more. I will not ask you what you did in times before when you were one of the Nictus. Now that you've turned from that path, a new life is before you. A life where you can do great good and protect the people of this world instead of preying on them.

I am called Shadowstar, and I help out our people who have turned away from the path of the Nictus. I pay close attention to many things, and should be able to find much for you to do. I know that you are eager to begin your new life, so let us start you on your new path.

Mission Acceptance

Since you've only recently joined us as a Warshade, this presents us with some unique opportunities. The Council has recently changed their encryption codes, making their communications unreadable without extreme effort. However, I know of two bases where parts of their cypher are being kept. Since you're new to our ranks, it is unlikely that the Council knows much about you, and so you may be able to recover the codes before they even know you're after them and can erase them. You'll also need to defeat the commander of both bases in order to keep this secret.

Unnecessary Solicitation

First, you will need to infiltrate Lt. Norman's base, defeat him and his command staff, and get the Encryption Cypher.

Mission Objective(s)

The alarms haven't even started going off in the base. They have no idea of the threat you represent

• Defeat Lt. Norman & crew
  • Find Encryption cypher

You found the Encryption cypher.
You defeated Lt. Norman and got the Encryption Cypher

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Lt. Norman (Council Nebula Buckshot, Lieutenant)

Council encryption cypher

This disk contains a test sample of the Council's new encryption code. This, combined with the decryption codes could help to crack the Council's new cypher.

Lt. Norman

Before combat:

Lt. Norman: These new codes will be unbreakable!

Combat start:

Lt. Norman: Wait a moment! You're not a Nictus! You're a Warshade!

Unnecessary Solicitation

Now you will need to get the other half of the code, the decryption cypher, and defeat Lt. Saxon in his base.

I remember when you came to us. You were so confused and uncertain. Now when I look in your eyes that uncertainty is gone. In it's place is a growing confidence that will see you through many dark days ahead. I will be glad to help you with anything you need.

Mission Objective(s)

The council seem a bit more ready for you this time. But you know it won't help them.

• Defeat Lt. Saxon & crew
  • Find Decryption cypher

You defeated Lt. Saxon and recovered the other half of the Council's new code

Enemies

Council

Notable NPC's

• Lt. Saxon (Lieutenant, clear room for credit)

Council decryption cypher

This disk contains a test sample of the Council's new decryption code. This, combined with the encryption codes could help to crack the Council's new cypher.

Lt. Saxon

Before combat:

Lt. Saxon: If they got Lt. Norman's encryption cypher, that can only mean that they'll be coming here.

Combat start:

Lt. Saxon: I don't know who you are, but you shall not defeat me!

Debriefing

These new codes will help greatly. I'll make certain that the proper people receive them, and that you get due credit for your bravery. It's no secret that we have many foes, and many potential allies who will find it difficult to trust us. Though we've severed our ties to the Nictus and now oppose them, it will take time for others to believe that we have changed. You face a long battle ahead of you, but you've already won the greatest battle by turning to a new path. The path of a hero.

I remember when you came to us, you were so confused and uncertain. Now when I look in your eyes that uncertainty is gone. In it's place is a growing confidence that will see you through many dark days ahead. I will be glad to help you with anything you need.

Check out the office and defeat any Clockwork you find (1-5)

Briefing

I have an unconfirmed report of Clockwork invading the offices of Grauman Technologies. I get about ten reports like this a day, but most are false leads. Still, you can't be too careful. Those little mechanical horrors will walk away with anything that isn't bolted down. I saw one walking down the street with a bed frame the other day. Would you check out the office and defeat any Clockwork you find?

Mission Acceptance

Watch out for the big Clockwork robot called Boss Name. I hear it can be dangerous.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Have you checked out that office yet?

Mission Objective(s)

The grinding of Clockwork gears tells you that this office invasion is no false alarm!

• Defeat Boss Name and its guards
  • Learn cause of Clockwork attack.

You defeated Boss Name and its minions.

Enemies

Clockwork

Notable NPCs

• Gearshift/Wheels (Lieutenant)

Clockwork Minion Dialogue

Combat Start:

Clockwork Minion 1: Threat identified: Character!

Repeated often by various Clockwork

Boss Dialogue

Before Combat:

Boss: Primary objective: Destroy robot parts.

Combat Start:

Boss: New objective acknowledged: Destroy Character at all costs!

Robot parts

You found these advanced robot parts in the offices of Grauman Technologies. It seems that the Clockwork robots were trying to destroy them.

Debriefing

Good work, Character. I'm afraid I can't tell you why the Clockwork were trying to destroy those robot parts. Perhaps the Clockwork King fears that someone else will produce better robots than his? If I were him, I wouldn't worry. His creations are remarkable! If only we could figure out how they work!

Check the warehouse for any Clockwork activity (1-5)

Briefing

I've had agents in the field all day tracking down Clockwork robots, and we're beginning to figure out where they're coming from. Our data shows two possible locations for their base. Will you check one warehouse for any Clockwork activity? I have another hero investigating the other.

Mission Acceptance

If you find the Clockwork base, please look for any clues to the Clockwork's plans.

Unnecessary Solicitation

The other hero says the warehouse I sent him to was empty. Looks like yours is the right one, so I need you to clear it out.

Mission Objective(s)

You hear the tell-tale sound of Clockwork gears. This must be their base of operations!

• Defeat all robots in warehouse

You cleared the warehouse of Clockwork minions.

Enemies

Clockwork

Notes on Clockwork robots

You copied these notes from a whiteboard in the Clockwork's base of operations. They are unintelligible to you, but they may mean more to a robotics expert.

Debriefing

Great work, Character! These notes you found should help our scientists figure out exactly how the Clockwork operate. With that kind of data, we may be able to defeat them once and for all!

Cull the numbers of the Clockwork menace (1-5)

Briefing

The Clockwork are using the cover of night to scavenge for more mechanical monstrosities. With every support beam and street lamp they take, they put our citizens in grave peril. We need to cull the numbers of the Clockwork menace. If we let them keep scavenging, I'm sure we'll soon be faced with a deadly accident.

Mission Acceptance

Thank you, Character. I can tell that the safety of the populace is of great import to you.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I'm still hearing reports of Clockwork scavengers.

Mission Objective(s)

• Combat Clockwork menace
  • Defeat 5 Clockwork

You discouraged the Clockwork from scavenging in Atlas Park.

Enemies

Clockwork

Debriefing

Thanks for helping with that Clockwork problem. We'll see what kind of impact you made tomorrow night.

Meet Sarah Peters and talk to her about the theft (1-5)

Visit Sarah Peters in Atlas Park

Briefing

I just spoke to Sarah Peters, an FCC investigator who tracks illegal broadcasts. She's intercepted some messages from Council soldiers. It seems they're planning to steal a powerful artifact that the government's been trying to protect for decades. Please meet Sarah Peters and talk to her about the theft.

Mission Acceptance

Sarah seems pretty upset. If the Council is involved, that's certainly understandable.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You should talk to Sarah Peters. If it involves the Council, it may be important.

Mission Objective(s)

• Visit Sarah Peters in Atlas Park

Sarah Peters

Briefing

Oh, Character! Contact told me to expect you. You should hurry; I hear those Council soldiers are already on the move. You've got to get to the warehouse and find crate 878-932 before they do. Get it to Azuria in City Hall; it'll be safe there. Good luck, Character. And whatever you do, don't look inside the crate!

Locate crate 878-932

Unnecessary Solicitation

It's up to you to find that crate before the Council does.

Mission Objective(s)

In the distance, you hear shouted orders and the sounds of heavy boots on cement floors.

• Locate crate 878-932

This is crate 878-932! You got to it before the Council found it.

Enemies

Council

Council Soldier Dialogue

Zone-In:

Council Soldier 1: I can't wait to get my first look at it!

Council Soldier 2: Ssh. Did you hear something?

This message was repeated 2x more by other soldiers.

You look for the ID number on the crate.
You have found an ID number.

Crate 878-932

This large crate is labeled 878-932. According to Sarah Peters, it contains a powerful artifact that the Council intended to steal. You have an almost irresistible urge to peek inside.

Take the crate to Azuria

Unnecessary Solicitation

You need to get that crate to Azuria for safekeeping.

Mission Objective(s)

• Take the crate to Azuria

Azuria

Debriefing

Thank you. I shall place this within the vault and guard it with the strongest wards. The artifact within is not a thing for mortal or immortal use. You didn't look upon it, did you?

Debriefing

Azuria tells me that that contents of crate 878-932 are safe in the MAGI vaults.

She didn't want me to speak of this to many people, but you've earned the right to know: the artifact within is known as a Looking Lens. By peering through it, you can see the very desires of the people around you. That's why you had to keep the crate closed, Character. There is some information that no one is meant to have.

Secure the painting before it's stolen (1-5)

Defeat all painting thieves

Briefing

We got a call from McCorman Industries last night. They reported a squad of Council soldiers scouting their office. It turns out that McCorman recently acquired a painting called 'The Lonely Horseman.' It's a decent painting, but, more importantly, it's rumored to be painted over a map to a boatload of gold bullion that sank somewhere off the Atlantic coast. I think these Council goons may be planning to steal it. Can you secure the painting before it's stolen?

Mission Acceptance

After you've secured the painting, take it to a lady named Iris Parker. She can get it back to McCorman Industries without incident.

Unnecessary Solicition

You have to stop the thieves and retrieve that painting.

Mission Objective(s)

You hear crisply barked orders over the sound of distant terrified screams.

• Defeat all painting thieves
  • Find the painting

You defeated the thieves and secured the painting.

Enemies

Council

You got the painting!

A painting called The Lonely Horseman

This somber painting shows a single horseman looking toward a distant church tower, his lance tip pointing at the ground. According to your contact, this painting obscures a map to a lost cache of gold bullion.

Ambush! Upon exiting the mission, there will be an ambush by the Council.

Take painting to Iris Parker

Unnecessary Solicitation

You need to get that painting to Iris Parker. She'll make sure it gets back to the rightful owner.

Mission Objective(s)

• Take painting to Iris Parker

Iris Parker

Debriefing

You really came through on this one, Character. I'll make sure this painting gets back to the rightful owners.

Debriefing

The Council is a very dangerous organization, Character, and they've been around long enough to know what they're doing. They attacked Paragon City back in the 50's, and were only stopped by the might of Atlas. If they're up to their old shenanigans, we'll have to keep our eye on them.