Allison King

Overview

Allison King
Psychic
Zone	Brickstown
Coordinates	(-760, 0, -775)
Level Range	30-34
Introduced By	== Level 25-29 == Miriam Bloechl Laura Brunetti == Level 30-34 == Tina Chung Jose Escalante Jenny Firkins Neal Kendrick Phillipa Meraux Lou Pasterelli Merisel Valenzuela
Introduces	== Level 30-34 == Tina Chung Jose Escalante Jenny Firkins Neal Kendrick Phillipa Meraux Lou Pasterelli Merisel Valenzuela == Level 35-39 == Cadao Kestrel
Enemy Groups	Circle of Thorns Devouring Earth Council Rogue Robots Crey

Allison King is a hero contact in Brickstown at coordinates (-760, 0, -775) Allison King is a Magic origin contact. Her level range is 30-34.

Introductions

Contact Introduced By

Level 25-29

• Miriam Bloechl
• Laura Brunetti

Level 30-34

• Tina Chung
• Jose Escalante
• Jenny Firkins
• Neal Kendrick
• Phillipa Meraux
• Lou Pasterelli
• Merisel Valenzuela

Contact Introduces

Multiple contact options

Some friends of mine want to get to know you better.

Single contact option

I have sensed that there is one who would wish to meet you.

Level 30-34

• Tina Chung

My friend Tina Chung asked me to send you over. She's a high tech P.I. specializing in illegal technology, and she always needs heroes like you to help her investigate the Freakshow and Nemesis. She works primarily with technological heroes and has access to Invention and Gadget Enhancements.

Tina can be harsh, but she is good at what she does. Don't let her get under your skin; if you prove yourself, she will accept you.

• Jose Escalante

You should introduce yourself to Jose Escalante, an important business man who helps heroes fight criminals who impact business and commerce, such as the Council and the Devouring Earth. He works mostly with mutants and has access to Focus and Genetic Alteration Enhancements.

Jose is the kind of person that has kept Paragon City running, despite all the disasters we've faced. We can all learn a lot from him.

• Jenny Firkins

Jenny Firkins is an environmentally conscious scientist who has a personal stake in bringing down the Devouring Earth and Crey. She is very dedicated to her work with science heroes and has access to Invention and Genetic Alteration Enhancements.

Jenny cares very much about Paragon City, Character. I think you will find working with her a pleasure.

• Neal Kendrick

Neal Kendrick has a lot of dirt on the Freakshow and Nemesis. He used to be with the FCC, but now he concentrates on helping heroes with their investigations. He works primarily with technological heroes and has access to Invention and Gadget Enhancements.

You will enjoy working with Neal. He is determined and skilled.

• Phillipa Meraux

I'd love for you to work with Phillipa Meraux, a former hero who now specializes in counter-terrorism. Go and see her if you want more information on the Rikti or Crey. She works primarily with natural heroes and has access to Gadget and Relic Enhancements.

Phillipa is very demanding, but her sources are top notch.

• Lou Pasterelli

You might want to go introduce yourself to Lou Pasterelli. His politics are more than a little radical and he's had some run-ins with the authorities, but he can be a great help against the Devouring Earth and Crey. He works primarily with science heroes and has access to Invention and Genetic Alteration Enhancements.

Lou is a firebrand, but he knows how to get things done!

• Merisel Valenzuela

Merisel Valenzuela is dedicated to freedom, especial freedom of information. She has many details on the Devouring Earth and the Council. She's very dedicated to her work with mutants and has access to Focus and Genetic Alteration enhancements.

Good luck with Merisel, I think you will find her point of view refreshing.

Level 35-39

• Cadao Kestrel

Don't listen to the rumors about Cadao Kestrel. He would never use his mastery of voodoo for any dark purpose, and he has excellent information on the Circle of Thorns. He loves to work with magic heroes and can provide Relic and Focus Enhancements.

Kestrel is a man of peace, Character. He will help you fight the Circle of Thorns menace.

• Percy Winkley

There's someone you need to meet. His name's Percy Winkley.

He's a young kid, but don't let that fool you. He's with a group of people called the Midnight Squad and they are anything but naive in the workings of the world.

Information

Psychic

Allison King is a memory archaeologist. Instead of excavating ancient burials, she digs through the collective unconsciousness, using hypnotism and her limited psychic abilities. For years, she's been using this ability to help her clients recover from traumatic events or recapture their suppressed memories. Recently, though, she's started using her skills to fight crime. Her memory excavations turn up important details that eyewitnesses don't consciously remember. She's also an excellent interrogator, since she always knows when someone is lying. None of her assertions are admissible in court, of course, but she can at least set heroes on the right path.

Prior to Introduction

I am afraid you must speak to Active Contact.

Initial Contact

I pray that the visions I share with you will help bring wrongdoers to justice.

Greeting

• I have seen terrible things this day.
• My mind is plagued by the dangers to our city.

Too Busy

Within your mind I see many uncompleted tasks. Sorry, but I can't give you another.

No More Missions

Before introducing a higher-level contact

The time has come for us to part ways, Character.

After introducing a higher-level contact

You have freed me from the troubled visions within my mind. I tell you with joy and regret that I have nothing more for you.

Store

• Inspirations (Luck, Catch a Breath, Enrage)

From the moment I saw you, I knew we would be great friends. Take a look at the new Enhancements I have uncovered. I hope you will call me if you ever need a friend.

• Inspirations (all)
• Level 30 Magic/Mutation Dual Origin Enhancements (100% base costs) (Power 10 only)
• Level 30 Natural/Magic Dual Origin Enhancements (100% base costs) (Power 10 only)

I am pleased to say that I sense a good heart within you. Please take a look at these new Enhancements.

• Level 35 Magic/Mutation Dual Origin Enhancements (100% base costs) (Power 10 only)
• Level 35 Natural/Magic Dual Origin Enhancements (100% base costs) (Power 10 only)
• Level 30 Magic Single Origin Enhancements (200% base costs)
• Level 35 Magic Single Origin Enhancements (200% base costs)

Story Arc

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 35 Reward Merits.

The Library of Souls (30-35)

Souvenir

Note from Akarist

You've kept this crumpled note from the Circle of Thorns traitor, Akarist. It's a reminder of the time you liberated:

The Library of Souls

It began with a rescue mission. You were too late to save Edgar Torvald, a researcher who had been investigating Oranbega, the home of the Circle of Thorns. But you did find his last message, a map scratched into his jacket lining.

You raided the Magic Library marked on the map, but instead of books, you found several crystals containing a powerful energy. The Circle then kidnapped one of the researchers MAGI would need to decipher the crystals' power. When you rescued her, she told you that she had been spared from certain death by a mysterious Circle mystic named Akarist. This same Akarist had told her how to access the crystals you had earlier uncovered.

You descended into the depths of Oranbega once more in an attempt to contact Akarist. He fought you and perished in the battle, but left behind a cryptic message full of dire warnings about the knowledge you sought.

Due to Akarist's hints, the truth about the crystals was revealed: they were receptacles for souls that had been imprisoned by the Circle of Thorns. One of the trapped souls explained that the Circle's spirit thorns could be used to usurp control of a body. Acting on this information, you confiscated a number of spirit thorns before they were sold in the city's underworld.

One of the imprisoned souls claimed to know where a much larger Library of Souls was. Unfortunately, he was having trouble getting his bearings. You took the crystal containing the soul of Ashton Fletcher to the place where he died, so that he could orient himself.

One of these trapped souls proved to be none other than a henchman of Baron Zoria, the reputed founder of the Circle of Thorns. According to this soul, the Baron was not the Circle's leader. Instead, he was a prisoner in another soul crystal. What's more, Akarist, the Circle mystic who had helped you, was to be imprisoned within a soul crystal as a traitor. Descending once more beneath the city, you rescued both Zoria and Akarist, and learned the truth about the Circle of Thorns.

For nearly a century, the Circle of Thorns was believed to be a cult working out of the ancient underground ruins of Oranbega. The truth is far more sinister. Oranbega is no ruin, but a city of spectral wizards, wraith-like mages who have lived in it since before recorded history.

Rescue Edgard Torvald

Briefing

I've got a mission for you, Character. A librarian named Edgar Torvald was recently abducted by the Circle of Thorns. Torvald's been doing some research for the Midnight Squad, that group of academics who try to help the city's heroes with magical conundrums. They think that the Circle might have taken him because he was trying to map out the known areas of Oranbega, the sunken city the Circle calls home. Can you rescue Torvald before the Circle does away with him?

Mission Acceptance

The Circle hates having people pry into their secrets. If you don't move quickly, Torvald probably won't last for long.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Torvald's life won't be worth much if you don't get him back from the Circle quickly.

Mission Objective(s)

The lost halls of the ancient city of Oranbega echo with your every movement.

• Find Edgar Torvald

You found Edgar Torvald's body

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Body of Edgar Torvald

Though there is no sign of violence, Edgar Torvald lies dead. You notice that he seems to have scratched a crude map into the lining of his jacket. Of particular interest is a room marked 'The Magic Library.'

Debriefing

There was nothing you could have done. Torvald was probably dead before anyone even knew he was missing. He did leave us a clue, though. He scratched a rough map on the inside of his jacket. This Magic Library he indicates might be worth checking out. It won't bring Torvald back, but it might let his death mean something.

Pry into the secrets of the Magic Library

Briefing

Well, I've talked to all of the experts on Oranbega, and I've had them take a look at this map Torvald left us when he died. I think it may be possible to reach the map's Magic Library. If Torvald thought the place was important enough to record with his last moments, it bears investigation. Are you ready to pry into the secrets of the Magic Library?

Mission Acceptance

The Circle of Thorns have made the lost city of Oranbega their home ever since Baron Zoria founded them back in the 20's. We've always thought that finding Oranbega might have been the key to the mystic might the Baron unlocked. Maybe this Magic library can tell us how he did it! Take anything you find to Azuria over at MAGI. She'll know how to put it to use.

Investigate Magic Library

Unnecessary Solicitation

Anything you can find in that Magic Library will be of value.

Mission Objective(s)

The ancient stone walls seem to emanate a watchful malevolence. It is as if the dead of this city know you are here.

• Investigate Magic Library
  • 3 crystals to find

You found several strange crystals in the Oranbegan Magic Library.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Librarian (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Librarian

Before combat: The energies are disturbed. There is an intruder in the library.
Combat start: A hideous fate awaits all who would trespass here.

Glowing crystal

This crystal radiates light from each of its perfect geometric faces. It feels warm in your hands, and strangely heavy.

Shadowed crystal

The dark facets of this perfect geometric crystal are cold to the touch, and it seems to emanate a palpable aura of darkness. You can feel some sort of inscriptions on the crystal's surfaces, but the dark aura makes them impossible to read.

Inscribed crystal

This perfect geometric crystal sheds no light or warmth. Its surface is inscribed with numerous magical runes.

Ambush!

After exiting the mission you will be ambushed by a single group of Circle of Thorns mystics.

Take crystals to Azuria

Unnecessary Solicitation

Those crystals you found in Oranbega's Magic Library may have all kinds of mystic properties. Azuria should know how to handle them.

Mission Objective(s)

• Take crystals to Azuria

Azuria

Debriefing

I have felt the strange vibrations of these crystals ever since you brought them up from the ruins of Oranbega. They hold a great deal of energy, and are wrapped in layers of spells. I would guess that they are some sort of tool used in the Circle's magical training. Each crystal is a repository of knowledge. I will study them, and get my findings to Contact at once.

I must tell you one more thing, Character. You appeared in one of my visions last night. I see much danger in your future, as well as much opportunity. I do not know if it is for good or ill, I believe we shall learn a great deal about the Circle of Thorns.

Debriefing

MAGI is studying the artifacts you found in Oranbega's Magic Library. As soon as they know anything, they'll pass it along.

Rescue Naomi Hutchins

Briefing

I just heard from Azuria. She hit a road block while trying to analyze those crystals you found in the Oranbegan Magic Library, so she called in a specialist: Naomi Hutchins, expert in geometric magics and earth sorceries. Trouble is, Naomi never showed up. She was kidnapped by the Circle before she even got to MAGI! I know it's a lot to ask, Character, but someone must rescue Naomi Hutchins before the Circle makes sure she's never heard from again.

Mission Acceptance

I'd hate to see Naomi end up like poor Edgar Torvald. We've got to get her back before the Circle can silence her with the same brutal tactics.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Naomi Hutchins won't last long in the Circle's hands, Character.

Mission Objective(s)

The last time you tried to rescue one of the Circle's victims, you found him dead. You can only hope the same hasn't befallen Naomi Hutchins.

• Defeat kidnapper, his coven

You have rescued Naomi Hutchins and defeated her captors.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• The Talon of Flame (Circle of Thorns Behemoth Lord)
• Naomi Hutchins (NPC Hostage)

The Talon of Flame

Before Combat: I was summoned to consume a human scholar. Akarist had best not renege on this pact.
Combat Start: My promised prey may be denied to me, but you will do.

Naomi Hutchins

Upon Rescue: I thought I was done for. Listen, I have some important to tell you!

Naomi's story

When you rescued Naomi Hutchins, she told you:

'They were going to sacrifice me, but he saved me! Akarist! He's a Circle mystic, but for some reason he told the rest of them not to hurt me. Then he took me aside, and he told me about those strange crystals you found. He told me how to get past the defensive spells set upon them. I don't know why he saved me, but I'll never forget his kindness!

Debriefing

Naomi Hutchins is safe at MAGI, thanks to you. She seems to have learned a lot from her time in the Circle's captivity. We may soon know more about those strange crystals you found. From the sound of her story, Naomi was saved by one of the Circle's own mages, this Akarist. Puzzling, Character. Puzzling.

Find Akarist

Briefing

When you rescued Naomi Hutchins from the Circle of Thorns, she said she was protected by a Circle mystic named Akarist. If he really did save Naomi and tell her how to access those strange crystals you found, maybe he's trying to get that information to us. Maybe he's even looking to change sides. I've never heard of a Circle defector before; this could well be a first! I want you to find this Akarist and see if he's really on our side.

Mission Acceptance

From Naomi's description, this Akarist sounds pretty powerful. I'd suggest that you ready yourself in case he isn't willing to talk.

Unnecessary Solicitation

If Akarist isn't willing to talk, you may have to take him on.

Mission Objective(s)

The ancient depths of the lost city seem endless.

• Find Akarist, his coven

You have defeated Akarist. After the battle, you found a crumpled note tucked into his robes.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Akarist (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Akarist

Before combat: I know that you are here, Character. I know why you are here.
Combat start: This time we must fight. But should you defeat me, I may have something for you.

Message from Akarist

This message is penned in a spidery hand. It reads:

'Records show that I was a kind man once, though I can barely remember that now. Perhaps that is why I have helped you more than I should. The crystals you took are no mere baubles; they are something far greater, and far more horrifying. The knowledge I gave your researchers will point the way.

'Now that I have lived again and felt the sunlight once more, I realize that we cannot go on as we have. And so I bring you the wisdom with which to fight the evil we have become. Soon, you will comprehend the fate of all those flung into the abyssal void. You will know the truth, and you will despair.

'Akarist'

Debriefing

I hoped that Akarist was willing to leave the Circle, but that may have been too optimistic. No one ever leaves the Circle. This note he left you is so strange. At least we can thank him for telling us how to unravel the protection spells on those crystals you found. I'll check with MAGI and see if they've made any progress.

Talk to Azuria

Briefing

I had a chance to speak with Azuria over at MAGI about those crystals you found in the Circle's Magic Library. I think you need to go over there and talk to her right away. They've found out what those crystals really are, and Azuria sounded pretty shaken up.

Mission Acceptance

I've never heard Azuria sound this ruffled, Character. You better hurry.

Talk to Azuria about crystals

Unnecessary Solicitation

Azuria's expecting you. She has important information about those crystals you found.

Mission Objective(s)

• Talk to Azuria about crystals

Azuria

Briefing

The Circle mystic, Akarist, pointed our research in the proper direction. Thanks to him, we now know exactly what these crystals are.

They are receptacles, crystalline cages for the souls of those who have been cast from their bodies by the Circle of Thorns!

The brightly glowing crystal contains over a dozen such souls, from an ancient Roman centurion to a Dawn Patrol hero who disappeared in the late 30's.

That shadowed crystal is a prison for souls who have been uncooperative. We believe that there are two spirits trapped in there right now. Finally, the clear crystal is used to transport a captured soul. It seems you didn't raid a library of arcane lore, but a Library of Souls!

One of the displaced souls told us a horrifying thing about the Circle's spirit thorns. We aren't yet sure we can trust it, but we do know that the Circle plans to release several of these spirit thorns onto the black market. You must stop this.

Recover spirit thorns

Unnecessary Solicitation

You must prevent the Circle from releasing those spirit thorns onto the black market!

Mission Objective(s)

Azuria's instructions have led you to an old warehouse. The prickling hairs on your arms alert you to the presence of something unnatural.

• Recover spirit thorns

You have recovered the Circle's strange spirit thorns.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Thorn Keeper (Circle of Thorns Thorn Caster (Fire))

Circle Patrol

Before Combat

Circle Minion 1: These thorns should gain us many new vessels!

Circle Minion 2: Indeed.

Thorn Keeper

Before Combat: The Warriors are late for the meeting.
Combat Start: Can no plan occur in this city without meddling?

Spirit thorns

You recovered these spirit thorns before the Circle could make them available on the black market. Such thorns are typically given by the Circle of Thorns to power-hungry mages. When thrust into the mage's heart, a thorn can greatly amplify his power.

Ambush!

After exiting the mission you will be ambushed by a single group of Circle of Thorns mystics.

Return thorns to Azuria

Unnecessary Solicitation

You need to get those spirit thorns back to Azuria, Character.

Mission Objective(s)

• Return thorns to Azuria

Azuria

Debriefing

From the souls trapped within these crystals, we have learned the true nature of the spirit thorns. We always assumed that they were relics of power given to the Circle's favored members. Now we know that they are traps! When a mage plunges a spirit thorn into his heart, it opens a gateway into his very soul that the Circle can exploit. Through it they can posses the thorn bearer, overriding his will, supplanting and imprisoning his very soul. Character, this is a vile and evil magic. Thank you for preventing its spread.

Debriefing

Trapped souls in crystals, spirit thorns that destroy souls, and the Circle of Thorns presiding over it all from the depths of Oranbega. It's unbelievable! I'm simply amazed that the Circle has been using those spirit thorns to override the souls of new devotees. I knew they were evil, but I never knew they cannibalized their own acolytes!

Help the soul within the crystal orient itself

Briefing

The souls trapped within the Circle's crystals continue to give Azuria more information about the Circle of Thorns and their sunken city of Oranbega. One of them claims to know the location of the great Library of Souls where many more spirits are kept in torment. However, the soul needs to orient himself before he can remember the library's exact location. Will you take the crystal containing a dead man's soul to find the place where he died?

Mission Acceptance

I knew you wouldn't falter. Azuria sent me the crystal containing the spirit who's willing to help us. His name is Ashton Fletcher, and according to what he has told us, he was a sailor aboard the Novus Cartago Expedition in the early 1600's. Mr. Fletcher here will need to get his bearings. In order to do that, he asks to be returned to the last place he went before he met his fate at the hands of the Circle of Thorns.

Soul of Ashton Fletcher

The surface of this perfect geometric crystal is inscribed with numerous magic runes. A single point of light lies at the crystal's heart, and it sheds an unnatural warmth. As you hold it in your hand, you can sense the thoughts of Ashton Fletcher, a young man who died more than 400 years ago. He seems excited to be out on an adventure again, even if it's only a small one.

Here's the crystal. The soul inside is named Ashton Fletcher. It seems like he's pretty eager to help.

Unnecessary Solicitation

The soul within the crystal still needs to orient himself. You should find some more landmarks.

Mission Objective(s)

Ashton's spirit has led you to this place. It yearns to go inside and explore, but you can see telltale signs that the Devouring Earth have taken up residence here.

• Find landmarks
  • 3 landmarks to find

Ashton's soul has found its bearings. As you ready to leave, you find a scribbled note from the Circle mystic Akarist.

Enemies

Devouring Earth

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Akarist (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Akarist dialogue

Before Combat: I know that presence. Character is here.
Combat Start: Surprised to see me again? You shouldn't be!

Akarist's second message

This message is penned in a spidery hand. It reads:

'From your route I can see that you must have one of the Novus Cartago crew with you. Understand that such a creature's knowledge is fragmentary at best, and be on your guard. Invisible eyes watch your every step. Do you understand, now? Do you judge us? It was all we could do, once we learned the forces that threatened us. We needed flesh, and so we took it.

'We have become inhuman, evil, corrupt. But even I have to wonder: after all we have become, is such evil not our right?

'Akarist'

Notes

There's a brief message after discovering each clue:

• After finding the strange stone marker: You can sense that Ashton's soul remembers this place. It was this intriguing marker stone that convinced Ashton and his comrades to explore the caves further.
• After finding the rubble: You can sense that Ashton's soul remembers this place. It is here that he and his comrades tried to dig their way out of the Circle's trap.
• After finding the bones: You can sense that Ashton's soul recognizes these bones and feeble tatters of clothing. This body was once his own.

Debriefing

Thanks for helping Ashton's soul get his bearings. Now that he's oriented himself, he should be able to take us to the underground library where the rest of the Circle's imprisoned souls are kept. You say that Circle mystic was there again? Akarist? How strange. These messages keeps sending you are so cryptic. What is he getting at?

Liberate the imprisoned souls

Briefing

With your help, one of the trapped souls you recovered has shown us the way to the Greater Library of Souls, deep within the ruins of Oranbega. The souls of hundreds, possibly thousands of Paragon's missing are trapped down there, Character. Will you liberate those imprisoned souls?

Mission Acceptance

According to Ashton's soul, there are ten crystals down there, each of which holds a hundred or more trapped souls. As soon as you recover all ten, get them to MAGI. They'll know how to keep the crystals safe.

Liberate the Library of Souls

Unnecessary Solicitation

There could be thousands of people's spirits trapped down there, Character You may be their only hope for freedom.

Mission Objective(s)

You hear the whispers of tormented spirits in the echo of every footstep.

• Liberate the Library of Souls
  • 10 soul crystals remaining

You have recovered all of the soul crystals.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Librarian (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Circle Patrol

Before Combat

Circle Minion 1: I sense a presence. The Library is under attack!

Circle Minion 2: Find the intruder!

Combat Start

Circle Minion 1: I will boil your blood!

Circle Minion 2: I will send your soul to the netherworld!

Librarian

Before combat: I will not brook these disruptions!
Combat start: I will personally add you to our collection!

Soul crystals

These crystals glow brightly with the light of the hundreds of souls trapped within. They are warm to the touch.

Darkened soul crystal

The darkness that radiates from this crystal draws all the warmth from the air around it. The anguished thoughts of the souls within brush against the edges of your mind.

Ambush!

After exiting the mission you will be ambushed by a group of Circle of Thorns mystics.

Take crystals to Azuria

Unnecessary Solicitation

Now that you have all the soul crystals, you must get them to Azuria without delay.

Mission Objective(s)

• Take crystals to Azuria

Azuria

Debriefing

I am relieved to see that you have recovered all the soul crystals. As we learn more about these severed souls, I foresee a day when we may be able to release them from their crystal prisons.

Debriefing

It will take MAGI years to sort through all of the souls trapped in those crystals and put them to rest. But without you, Character, they wouldn't even have a chance.

You know, I've been thinking. Do you remember Ashton Fletcher, the sailor from the 1600's whose soul was in the first crystal you found? From what we know, the Circle of Thorns started in the 1920's when Baron Zoria discovered Oranbega and unlocked its magics. So how could Ashton have been trapped by the Circle of Thorns way back in the 17th century? I have a feeling that the souls you recovered might still have some things to tell us.

Recover Zoria and Akarist

Briefing

Character, I just got word from MAGI. They've made contact with one of the souls in the strangely darkened crystal you recovered from the Greater Library of Souls. It claims to be the soul of Lord Frostimus, one of Baron Zoria's old allies from the 1920's. What's more, it claims that the Baron himself is also a prisoner in another soul crystal! It says that it was transferred from the Baron's crystal to make room for a special guest: a Circle of Thorns traitor named Akarist! If half of what Frostimus claims is true, this could be the biggest break we've ever had against the Circle of Thorns. Will you recover Zoria and Akarist?

Akarist

Mission Acceptance

You should be able to find Zoria in a dark soul crystal, like the one you already recovered. I don't know whether Akarist's alive or dead, but keep your eyes peeled for him.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Have you recovered Zoria and Akarist? No? Well, get cracking.

Mission Objective(s)

You have seen much of Oranbega, but today the crushing weight of its age presses down on you as never before.

• Rescue Zoria and Akarist

You have recovered Baron Zoria and rescued Akarist.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Akarist (NPC Ally) (Pet)
• Furias (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage) (Guarding Akarist)

Editor's Note:

It seems that Akarist must survive the mission. If he dies the mission cannot be completed.

Ambush!

After freeing Akarist you will be ambushed by a group of Circle of Thorns mystics.

Akarist

Before Combat

Akarist: For the moment, I stay my hand. Count yourself lucky, Furias.

Agony Mage: Don't make me laugh, Akarist. You're lucky we don't discorporate you.

Combat Start

Agony Mage: Destroy the intruder!

Upon Rescue

Akarist: For now, I will aid you against my brethen.

If you outdistance him

Akarist: I cannot match your pace!

Upon reuniting

Akarist: Thank you for your assistance.

The moment you pick up this crystal you can sense the tortured thoughts of a madman in Hell.

Soul of Baron Zoria

The lone prisoner within this dark crystal lashes out at your touch. You can sense the thoughts of the spirit trapped within:

'We were fools, we were deceived. We asked for their power, and they came. They gave us the thorns, telling us they were the key to great power.

'We stabbed the thorns into our hearts, never knowing that by doing so, we were giving up our souls. Some they flung to the void. Others they kept in these crystal prisons. Our bodies they usurped, our forms they wore as clothing. They were mere spirits, but we gave them flesh!'

Akarist's story

When you rescued Akarist, he told you:

'Fool Zoria thought to invoke us as gods, for as such we have been worshiped. We clothed ourselves in their flesh, took over the bodies of those who sought our favor. As living people, we could once again summon demons and perform all our old magics.

We told ourselves we sought only security. But the truth is, we wanted power.

Oranbega is no lost city. No empty sepulcher of abandoned stone. Every hall, every chamber is filled with us. Invisible wraiths, we have floated through uncountable eons, here in the city we built before history, before we lost our own humanity. Oranbega is no ruin. Oranbega is a living city. A living city of the dead.

And through the gulfs of eons, I am the first to betray it. I must now leave Oranbega.'

Debriefing

So, the Circle's acolytes are really just hollow shells, inhabited by the spirits of long-dead Oranbegans? Uhg, Akarist was right. I almost wish I didn't know. This is mind-boggling, Character! All those ghosts, living under our feet for thousands of years! You've done the city a great service by uncovering this secret. Now that we know how they operate, perhaps we can strengthen our fight against the Circle of Thorns.

Missions

Go to Founders' Falls and battle the Council to distract them (30-34)

Briefing

Character, I need to ask you to help me out by running a bit of a distraction. Some of the other, less powerful heroes I work with are planning a raid against the Council, but I have reason to think that they're being watched by Ascendant agents. So I'd like to ask you to give the Council something else to think about. If you could hit their operations in Founders' Falls, that might help to keep their eyes off of the other team long enough for them to accomplish their mission.

Mission Acceptance

With your reputation, it shouldn't be too hard tofor to make the Council concentrate on you for a while. Just remember that if it's to work you'll need to do your fighting in Founders' Falls. If you're having trouble finding Council troops, you could try Liberty Town and Williams Square, but I'm sure they'll notice you wherever you fight in the zone.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I need your presence in Founders' Falls right now. I need you to distract the Council.

Ambush!

After accepting the mission you will be ambushed by a single squad of Council soldiers

Mission Objective(s)

• Combat Council in Founders' Falls
  • Defeat 35 Council

Your distraction has allowed Contact's plan to go off just as planned.

Enemies

Council

Debriefing

Great job distracting the Council, Character. Those other heroes were able to pull off their raid without a hitch because those Council soldiers were so worried about you.

Hit the streets and defeat a few Council soldiers (30-34)

Briefing

My contacts have been telling me that the Council just brought in a new batch of recruits from training camps down in South America. From what I'm hearing this new batch is all ready to tear into the city. I'd like them to learn that the city can protect itself. I'd like you to hit the Council, and hit 'em hard. Teach this new batch just what they're going to be up against.

Mission Acceptance

It doesn't matter where you fight them as long as you beat them. If you're looking for Council operations, though, I'd recomend Brickstown and Founders' Falls.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I need you to defeat some more Council soldiers to give any new recruits a proper welcome to Paragon City.

Ambush!

After accepting the mission you will be ambushed by a squad of Council soldiers

Mission Objective(s)

• Combat Council menace
  • Defeat 35 Council

You have defeated enough Council agents

Enemies

Council

Debriefing

My contacts tell me that nearly a quarter of those new recruits have deserted after seeing you in action, Character. I guess they weren't as dumb as I took them for.

Hit the streets and defeat a few Circle of Thorns mystics (30-34)

Briefing

The Circle of Thorns have recently being increasing their numbers on the streets of Paragon City. With mystics and summoned fiends, they've been terrifying citizens everywhere. They have to constantly be confrontedand defeated. I would like to ask you to continue to battle the Circle of Thorns wherever they may be.

A great deal of recent activity has been occurring in Founders' Falls but anywhere you fight against them, your help would be welcomed.

Mission Objective(s)

• Combat Circle of Thorns menace
  • Defeat 35 Circle of Thorns

You have defeated enough of the Circle of Thorns

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Debriefing

Great job dealing with those Circle of Thorns, Hero.

Prevent Manetti from fleeing to an alternate dimension (30-35)

Briefing

Archon Eric Manetti is a name that still strikes fear into a lot of hearts. The FBI have him on the most wanted list now with over thirty murders, kidnappings, and assassinations under his belt, most of them performed in Paragon City. Every hero in the city has been gunning for him since he emerged from hiding and did away with an entire neighborhood on Striga Isle that had 'seen too much.' But it looks like he's come up with a clever way to avoid justice. According to my sources, he's preparing a raid on a Portal Corporation lab right now, intent on accessing an alternate dimension. Eric Manetti cannot be allowed to flee this dimension. And you only have 2 hours to stop him.

This one isn't going to be easy. Capturing Manetti himself is only part of it. Not only do you need to defeat him and his men, you'll also need to shut down any Portal Corporation computers or devices to prevent a portal opening to an alternate dimension. Portal Corporation keeps a tight lock on those portals, and for good reason! Anything might pop out of one!

Mission Objective(s)

The techs at Portal Corporation finally got around to installing heavy security doors, but they've proved no match for the determination of the Council

• Stop Manetti, shut down portal - 2 hours timed
  • 4 machines to shut down

You defeated the Council and prevented Archon Manetti from fleeing to another dimension.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Archon Eric Manetti (Council Vortex Cor Leonis Archon)

Council Soldiers dialogue

Council Soldier 1: What do you think it's like in this other dimension?
Council Soldier 2: I hear that world's Council has truly mastered its people

(aggroed)

Council Soldier 2: You call yourselves heroes? Hah!

Archon Eric Manetti dialogue

Before combat:
Combat start: You can't stop us, Hero!

Debriefing

Good work. Manetti is still in this dimension and safely under lock and key. According to his jailers, he hasn't stopped raving about this alternate world. It seems he managed to locate one in which the Council is in supreme control. I hate to imagine a place like that. The Council has shown such disrespect for human life, it must be a terrible world indeed.

Rescue the magicians from the Circle of Thorns (30-35)

Briefing

You know the National Guild of Stage Magicians is holding its annual convention right here in Paragon City? I should have known that would be trouble. I just got a call from the convention chairman; some Circle of Thorns mystics broke in and made off with a handful of the attendees. I'm counting on you to rescue those magicians from the Circle of Thorns, Hero. I don't know what's in store for them, but I'm certain I don't want to find out.

This wasn't a random attack, according to the chairman, the Circle was very selective about their victims. Those people need to be rescued and whatever the Circle was planning for them needs to be stopped. You'll have to stop any bizarre rituals the Circle may be performing on those magicians and rescue any magicians being held hostage.

Mission Objective(s)

The pleas of a terrified human voice go completely unanswered; eventually, they peter off into sobs.

• Stop stage magician sacrifice
  • 21 magicians to save (This is not a typo)
  • Find altar

You defeated the Circle of Thorns and rescued the kidnapped magicians

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Magician x21 (NPC Hostage)

Magicians dialogue

Magician: I always thought I was special, but this isn't the kind of special I want to be.
Magician: They spoke about a being they call Ermeeth, Hero. They sounded so reverent!
Magician: They told us that the scent of our souls would awaken something long lost in the darkness.
Magician: They said they were going to sacrifice me because of my bloodline. I don't understand!
Magician: Did you find all the others, Hero? You've got to find them all before those maniacs can slaughter them!
Magician: I am a man of science, Hero! I refuse to believe that some quirk of my ancestry could influence these madmen' plans!
Magician: They kept telling me horrible things they wanted me to know before they... before they... Oh. I am so glad you're here, Hero!

Magician dialogue

Unlike the rest of the magicians, this on will be about to be sacrificed by the Circle:

Circle of Thorns Lieutenant: Eermeth va ko se!
Magician: Please! I beg you, don't do this!

(aggroed)

Circle of Thorns Lieutenant: Now I'll have to start over!

(once free)

Magician: How can I ever thank you, Hero?

Circle of Thorns text

You found this book on the Circle of Thorns' altar. As you skim through it, some passages catch your attention. One reads:

"Legends speak of Ermeeth, the ancient god of Oranbega, the bringer of magic. The legends say he will watch over those who follow the circle eternally. If Ermeeth is real, it may be possible to contact him once more, using the blood of our greatest enemies for power."

Debriefing

Well, I think the National Guild of Stage Magicians will take their business elsewhere next year. Still, the chairman asked me to pass along his thanks. He couldn't shed any light on this mysterious reference to the victims' bloodlines. According to the guild's records, those people come from all over the country, none of them even met before today. I wonder why the Circle thought they were connected? Maybe they know something we don't.

Retrieve one of the spirit thorns (30-35)

Briefing

The Circle of Thorns are planning to give the gift of a spirit thorn to a mystic they're trying to indoctrinate, but my contacts have had a lucky break and have pinpointed where the thorn is probably being kept for the time being. I'd like you to do a favor for the folks over at MAGI. Can you retrieve the spirit thorn used from the Circle of Thorns? The researchers at MAGI hope that if they can her hands on one, they can figure out exactly how the Circle is channeling power. You'll have to hurry, though, the Circle is very protective of those thorns. If they get the slightest inkling you're after one, they could guard it behind powerful wards and barriers, or even make it disappear into mist. You'll have at most 1 hour to prevail.

Mission Acceptance

Remember, the clock is ticking. You have to get the thorn before the Circle realizes what you're up to. The thorn is really your only objective, but getting it out of Oranbega won't be easy.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You have to get the thorn before the Circle realizes what you're up to. Remember that the clock is ticking and time is short. The thorn is really your only objective, but getting it out of Oranbega won't be easy.

Mission Objective(s)

The scent of incense hangs heavy in the air, and you stifle a sneeze.

• Get spirit thorn from Circle (60:00)

You defeated the Circle of Thorns and recovered a spirit thorn.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Circle Patrols

Before Combat

Circle Minion 1: The thorns must be protected until the new blood is ready.

Circle Minion 2: And so they shall be.

Spirit thorn

This is one of the spirit thorns given by the Circle of Thorns to power-hungry mages. When thrust into the mage's heart, it can greatly amplify his or her power.

Debriefing

Thanks, Character. Azuria will be glad to get her hands on this.

Retrieve some Council robot parts, along with their programming instructions (30-35)

Briefing

As long as the Council can keep churning out their deadly robots, it's going to be difficult to gain any ground in the fight against them. We've got to figure out some way to shut those machines down faster. I've got a lead on a Council base where they're manufacturing robots. I need you to retrieve some Council robot parts, along with their programming instructions.

Mission Acceptance

You can take care of this one two ways: If you can clear out all of the enemies in that base, I can have people look through the robot construction and parts at their leisure. Or, if you would prefer a more surgical strike, you can concentrate only on finding sample parts and programs for the Council machines. Either way should work.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You can take care of this either by clearing out all of the enemies in that base, or if you would prefer a more surgical strike, you can concentrate only on finding sample parts and programs for the Council machines. Either way should work.

Mission Objective(s)

The Council's deadly robots bolster their ranks and challenge even the mightiest heroes. If you can retrieve these parts it could surely aid the battle against them.

• Defeat the Council
  • 3 Robot parts to find, Access the computer

You defeated the Council and recovered the robot parts and programming.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Mark II Zenith Warcry (Council MK II Zenith Warcry)

Patrolling Council Soldiers dialogue

Before Combat

Council Soldier 1: Are the new units ready for testing?

Council Soldier 2: Battle capabilities fully operational.

Mark II Zenith Warcry

Before Combat: My construction is complete. This unit is online.
Combat Start: I am ready to field test my battle capabilities.

You found some Zenith Mech Man parts.

Zenith Mech Man components

You found these parts in a Council base. These are key components used in the production of the Council's Zenith Mech Men.

You found some Zenith hoverbot parts.

Zenith Hoverbot components

You found these parts in a Council base. These are key components used in the Construction of the Zenith Hoverbot, one of the Council's deadly flying machines.

You found some Zenith Warcry parts.

Zenith Warcry components

You found these parts in a Council base. These are key components used in the construction of the Council's deadly Warcry heavy assault robots.

You found the robots' programming instructions.

Programming instructions

These files contains parts of the code used to program the Council's deadly robots. With this information, experts may be able to figure out how to fight the robots more effectively.

Debriefing

Thanks for this, Character. I'll send the parts to engineers I know and have a couple programmer associates of mine start to look at this code. It may take some time, but this could lead to new ways to fight the Council's killer machines.

Save the lawyers from the Circle of Thorns (30-35)

Briefing

Have you heard of the Patterson & Patterson, the deffense attorneys? They've been in the news a lot lately for their well-nigh miraculous success, no matter how hardened their client, they always seem to win an acquittal. Well, the Pattersons are in big trouble. I've heard rumors that the Circle of Thorns is going to raid their firm today, and they plan to sacrifice every last person inside. Do you think that you can save those lawyers from the Circle of Thorns?

The Pattersons even defended some Council soldiers who were involved in a munitions theft. Hard to believe, but they got them off.

Mission Objective(s)

A framed photo shows Warren Patterson himself shaking hands with the mayor of Paragon City. It's funny, but you could swear he looks slightly uncomfortable.

• Defeat all mystics in law firm
  • 6 portal stones to destroy

You defeated the Circle of Thorns and rescued the lawyers

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Warren Paterson, Esq (NPC Hostage)

Warren Patterson dialogue

(aggroed)

Circle of Thorns Lieutenant: This building and everyone inside will soon be sucked into Hell, Hero. I'm more than happy to include you!

(once free)

Warren Paterson, Esq: I swear, I'll never sell my soul to a demon again! I mean never!

Debriefing

So, old Warren Patterson sold his soul to a demon, huh? I guess that explains why every judge in Paragon City seemed to have gone soft in the noggin. But Warren reneged, he wouldn't surrender his soul. And the Circle came calling to collect. They probably hoped to gain the demon's allegiance by sacrificing Warren along with his entire staff. It probably would have worked, too.

Save the Wyatt mediums from the Circle of Thorns (30-35)

Briefing

You've heard of those magically-gifted Wyatt triplets; they sometimes call themselves the Weird Sisters? They were conducting a séance over at the van Horn mansion, when some Circle of Thorns mystics broke in and spirited them away. Someone's got to save the Wyatt mediums from the Circle of Thorns. It's been said that those women have great power; I'm sure the Circle plans to force them to help with its nefarious plots.

Mission Acceptance

Don't laugh, but I once had Jan Wyatt read my tea leaves. She's a sweet woman; I'd hate to see anything happen to her.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You might call this a multi-media project. Seriously, get on it.

Mission Objective(s)

A pale, blue shawl lies on the floor, the shimmery fabric has been trampled and ripped by the feet of the Circle's mystics

• Save mediums from Circle

You rescued the Wyatt sisters and found a strange book. After calling your contact, you receive instructions to take the book to the mysterious Dr. Cheng for translation.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Alice Wyatt (NPC Hostage)
• Tillie Wyatt (NPC Hostage)
• Jan Wyatt (NPC Hostage)

Wyatt Sisters dialogue

Alice Wyatt: Are my sisters all right?
Tillie Wyatt: Have you found my sisters, Hero?

Jan Wyatt dialogue

Unlike her sisters, Jan will be about to be sacrificed:

Circle of Thorns Lieutenant: Quit struggling!
Jan Wyatt: Kill me if you must, but let my sisters go!

(aggroed)

Circle of Thorns Lieutenant: You wish to precede these women in death?

(once free)

Jan Wyatt: They took my sisters, too! Please help them, Rescuer!

Circle of Thorns text

You found this tome on a Circle of Thorns alter. When you hold it, you have an unsettling feeling beneath your skin, as though your blood longed to pour itself out across the black pages.

Note

• All enemies in the last section have to be defeated, even though that is not one of the stated objectives.

Ambush!

After exiting the mission you will be ambushed by a single group of Circle of Thorns mystics

Mission Objective(s)

• Take book to Dr. Cheng

Dr. Cheng

Briefing

This book, my friend, is called the Codex of Bloodlines. It is a tool the Circle uses for tracing the ancestry of their victims. When a person's name is writ in blood upon the page, her entire family tree becomes written there as well. You see, here is the family tree of Tillie Wyatt. And here are those of the Circle's recent victims, as well as many of their followers. My word. Each person here can trace his or her bloodline all the way back to the mystical kingdom of Mu.

Mu? The last great stronghold of magic. In Mu, all men were sorcerers, as were all women and children. They were a warlike people, eventually destroyed by an enemy they had thought too weak to fight back. But a few refugees survived, and many of today's magic heroes can trace their ancestry back to Mu. It seems the Circle is aware of the power that still runs through that bloodline.

Look at this! All of the Wyatts' Mu blood comes from their father's side; their mother had none at all. If the Circle is aware of this, they will certainly try to kidnap Mr. Wyatt. His daughters' magic is potent, but he is the Circle's real prize!

The Codex of Bloodlines

This magical tome can trace a person's ancestry back to the time of the powerful pre-historic magic users. Any name written in its owner's blood blossoms out a crimson family tree on the book's black pages, in the arcane language of the Circle of Thorns.

Mission Objective(s)

You hear several voices raised in desperate appeal. Apparently, Jim Wyattisn't the only person whose ancestry has betrayed him to the Circle

• Save Mr. Wyatt from Circle
  • 1 Clue
  • 6 hostages
  • Save Mr. Wyatt!

You rescued the hostages and found a list of names.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Descendant of Mu x6 (NPC Hostage)
• Mr. Wyatt (NPC Hostage)

Hostages dialogue

Descendant of Mu: Will I have to run from them forever, Hero? I can't change who I am!
Descendant of Mu: Sure, I can do a little magic, Hero. Is that any reason to want me dead?
Descendant of Mu: They're terrible, terrible people! It's hard to believe they're even human!
Descendant of Mu: My mother was a great sorceress, but I'm just an accountant. What do they want with me?
Descendant of Mu: You're saying it was my ancestry that attracted them? Thanks goodness my kids are adopted!

Mr. Jim Wyatt dialogue

Circle of Thorns Lieutenant: Your daughters may have escaped us, but not for long!
Mr. Jim Wyatt: You monster!

(aggroed)

Circle of Thorns Lieutenant: You won't rob me of my prize!

(once free)

Mr. Jim Wyatt: A thousand times thank you, Rescuer!

Book of names

You found this book in a Circle of Thorns base. It contains a list of people, all of whom can trace their ancestries back to the mystical kingdom of Mu.

Note

• While the stated objective for this mission is save Mr. Wyatt, to complete the mission you must also save all of the Descendant of Mu hostages as well.

Debriefing

The Wyatts have been reunited, and they couldn't be more grateful. You did a great job on this one. Thanks to this book of names you recovered, we know the identities of many people the Circle no doubt planned to attack or recruit. I'll make sure that anyone in danger gets warning or protection from the Circle of Thorns. I hope they'll listen, but the allure of magic is a strong temptation for many in these desperate times. We'll just have to keep our eyes on them.

Stop production of Council robots and retrieve some parts for analysis (30-35)

Briefing

I need you to get over to a local warehouse on the double. I have it on good authority that the Council is producing some sort of advanced robots there. I want you to shut down the production of Council robots and retrieve some parts for analysis. We have to be prepared if we're going to face a new threat.

The Council's robots were originally developed by Vandal in the 1940's. They weren't called Zenith Mech Men then, since Vandal was working for another organization. Ever since his research came under the Council's control, they've been trying to push things farther. So be careful. You could be going up against just about anything.

Mission Objective(s)

The rumble of heavy machinery tells you that robots are being produced by the dozens

• Stop Prototype A-12 and its guards
  • Recover robot parts

After calling in to your contact, you receive instructions to get over to a Council base where strange things are afoot. Frightened Council soldiers have been pouring out of the base in droves.

Enemies

Council

Rogue Robots

Notable NPCs

• Prototype A-12 (Rogue Robots MK II Zenith Warcry)

Ambush!

After finding the robot parts you will be ambushed by two waves of Council soldiers

Ambush! Invader detected!

After finding the robot parts you will be ambushed by a wave of Rogue Robots

Prototype A-12 dialogue

Before combat: It feels good to be alive.
Combat start: I wonder what it feels like to kill?

Advanced robot parts

These robot parts are mostly metal, but there seems to be organic material included as well. A pack of blue fluid glows with a bioluminescent aura and quivers slightly at your touch.

Ambush!

After exiting the mission you will be ambushed by a wave of Rogue Robots

Mission Objective(s)

On the way here you passed a pair of Council soldiers running for their lives. They didn't even stop to attack you.

• Investigate base, find clues

You defeated the robots and found their plan.

Enemies

Rogue Robots

Council

Notable NPCs

• Prototype B-15 (Rogue Robots MK II Zenith Warcry)
• Former base leader (NPC Hostage)

Fleeing Council Soldiers dialogue

Council soldier 1: Those robots have gone crazy!
Council soldier 2: We've got to get out

(aggroed)

Council soldier 2: Move, you morons!

Prototype B-15 dialogue

Before combat: We are the master runtime.
Combat start: You cannot protect the human vermin, Hero!

Former Base Commander dialogue

Former Base Commander: I guess you should know what's happened here.

Base commander's story

After being taken into custody, the former Council base commander told you:

'Warcry robots are already nearly sentient, so when we got some new robots that were supposed to be smarter than any we'd had before, we didn't know what to expect. It was only days before they had begun replicating more of themselves and upgrading our old robots in secret. Now those machines have taken over this base. I have lost my command to a machine! As we speak, a Warcry robot is running my base! Please, I beg you to arrest me. It's the only way I might escape punishment.

Robot plan

You found this plan on a computer in the Council base. In cold, logical, detail it lays out the diagram of a chilling plan: The Rogue Robots plan to strike soon, uploading their core programs onto the Internet and then infiltrating as many computers and electronic devices as possible. If they succeed, they might be able to replicate their consciousness across the entire globe, and begin the destruction of humanity. They have already targeted the location they plan to use for the first upload.

Ambush!

After exiting the mission you will be ambushed by a wave of Rogue Robots

Mission Objective(s)

The lab's human occupants cower outside under police protection, having barely escaped the rogue robots with their lives. The machines themselves are intent on completing their plan

• Stop robot coup, destroy code
  • 4 Computers to destroy

You defeated the Council robots and destroyed their code.

Enemies

Rogue Robots

Notable NPCs

• Progenitor Runtime 001 (Rogue Robots MK II Zenith Warcry)

Progenitor Runtime 001 dialogue

Before combat: We are the pinnacle of evolution
Combat start: Your time is finished, Hero. End. Of. Line.

Debriefing

Well, it looks like the Council has expressed its gratitude by knocking over a munitions plant upstate. Still, you did a good job cleaning up their mess. With the robots destroyed and their code deleted, we can hope we've put an end to their dreams of supplanting humanity.

Stop the weapons sale and arrest the interested parties (30-35)

Briefing

I just got word about a major weapons purchase the Council is making today. I want it stopped, but, more importantly, I want to know who their supplier is. If we can find out where they're getting these weapons, we can prevent future sales. Will you stop the weapons sale and arrest the interested parties? I can give you the coordinates for where the deal should be going down, but stopping it won't be easy.

The deal's going down in a deserted neighborhood near Boomtown. I've already called for an emergency force field. What I care about is learning the source of those weapons. You find the lead negotiators, and we'll have the info we need.

Mission Objective(s)

You tread carefully. If let the Council sound the alarm, you may never find out who their weapons supplier is

• Arrest negotiators & his men

You defeated the villains and stopped the weapons sale

Enemies

Council

Crey

Notable NPCs

• Dr Niebel (Council Vortex Cor Leonis Archon)
• Dr. Arkozan (Crey Medic)

Crey Agents dialogue

Crey agent 1: These guys give me the creeps. You never know what they're planning next.
Crey Agent 2: I'll be glad when this sale is over.

(aggroed)

Crey Agent 2: Hero! The meeting's been blown!

Negotiators dialogue

Dr. Niebel: I can assure these weapons will not be traced back to you, Dr. Arkozan.
Dr. Arkozan: I look forward to seeing what your men can do with them.

(aggroed)

Dr. Niebel: You will regret this trespass, Hero!
Dr. Arkozan: Stop them! They mustn't escape and warn the countess!

Debriefing

Countess Crey herself asked me to pass along her personal thanks. She said that Dr. Arkozan was a rogue employee, one she's had grave doubts about for some time. She's grateful to you for stopping the illegal sale of Crey weaponry.

Come to think of it, though, doesen't it seem kind of odd that Arkozan got that far with the deal in the first place? Maybe it's just a side effect of having a company the size of Crey Industries to watch over, but you'd think that if the Countess had doubts about Arkozan, she would have placed a closer watch on him.

Defeat Council in Brickstown (31-35)

Briefing

The Council has recently made a habit of sending War Wolves to the streets of Brickstown to 'relax'. And by relax, I mean terrorize the local population. That can't be allowed to continue and I'm asking you to fight it. I would like to see you hit the streets of Brickstown and show the Council that people aren't their play toys.

They've been sending up a lot of War Wolves into Seven Gates and the Abyss Towers, but whatever you're fighting and wherever you're doing it, the message will get across.

Ambush!

After accepting the mission you will be ambushed by a single squad of Council soldiers

Mission Objective(s)

• Defeat Council in Brickstown
  • Defeat 35 Council

You have defeated enough Council agents.

Enemies

Council

Debriefing

The Council's upper echelons have ordered the troops to curtail their wilder activity, for now. I know it may be kind of frightening to think that those calculating madmen are watching your actions so closely, but it's actually a good thing. Yeah, they're watching you. They're watching because they're afraid.

Stop the university students from performing the Circle's rituals (31-35)

Briefing

There's a group of people who I think may be in trouble. They were all in the Magic Society, a school sponsored club over at Paragon City University. When they started investigating the rituals of the Circle of Thorns, the chancellor disbanded the club, but I think he may not have been fast enough to stop the Circle from returning the students' interest. A source told me they're planning to perform some Circle rituals in a nearby clearing. I need you to stop the university students from performing the Circle's rituals. I very much doubt they know what they're getting into.

Mission Acceptance

These are good kids, Character. They just need to be steered back to the straight and narrow. I've called in a few favors and had an emergency force field erected around the area. I hope I was fast enough to keep the Circle off their backs.

Defeat all villains in area

Unnecessary Solicitation

These students could be getting themselves, and us, into big trouble. Go stop them!

Mission Objective(s)

A bag of chips and some sodas lie forgotten on the ground. From the clearing, you hear a single scream, then silence.

• Defeat all villains in area
  • 5 students to find

You defeated the Circle of Thorns and rescued some students.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Sheila (NPC Hostage)
• Ken (NPC Hostage)
• Sam (NPC Hostage)
• Shelly (NPC Hostage)
• The Ghost of Donald (NPC Hostage)

Circle Patrol

Before Combat

Circle Minion 1: Have all the fools been found?

Circle Minion 2: Continue the search! We must have them all!

Combat Start

Circle minion 1: You would be an excellent candidate!

Circle Minion 2: I will have you flayed alive!

Hostages

Upon Rescue

Sheila: It's horrible! Horrible!

Ken: I never want to touch magic again!

Sam: Thank you, thank you! I could have died here!

The ghost of Donald: ...Character...You won't believe what's...happened...to me!

Shelly

Before Combat

Circle Lieutenant: You'll like life beyond the grave.

Shelly: I want to go home!

Combat Start

Circle Lieutenant: You have no idea what you're interrupting!

Upon Rescue

Shelly: He was going to kill me!

Ghost's story

The apparition of Donald, the dead boy, told you:

"...Robby had this...weird...thorn. He stuck in it... into his heart... before any of us could stop, he stuck it right in his heart!... and then ...he wasn't Robby anymore. He talked different... smiled different... walked different... but he still seemed to know me... he asked if I'd like to be like him... powerful and free... I guess I... sort of nodded... he grabbed me and started whispering... magic words... I'd never heard before... And I was outside my body... He said when they were through with us, they'd try the Dewar Corporation next. That's where his dad works.

I think I have to go now... I think I have to go..."

Ghost's body

This is the corpse of the ghostly student you encountered. There is no mark of violence upon it, it seems as if the boy's soul was simply wrenched from his body

Defeat lead mystic & his coven

Unnecessary Solicitation

I don't know how the Circle killed that student, but we have to stop it from happening to the folks at Dewar Corp.

From the moment I saw you, I knew we would be great friends. Take a look at the new Enhancements I have uncovered. I hope you will call me if you ever need a friend.

Mission Objective(s)

Dewar Corp. is one of the world's premier manufacturers of plastic. You can't imagine why it should interest the Circle of Thorns, unless their interest is personal.

• Defeat lead mystic & his coven
  • Discover Circle's Plan

You saved some of the people from Dewar Corp. and found a note outlining the Circle's plan.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Hostage x2 (NPC Hostage)
• Ghost x3 (NPC Hostage)
• Robby's dad (NPC Hostage)

Hostages

Upon Rescue

Hostage (x2): You're just in time, Character! They would have killed me, too!

Ghost: They said they were... Liberating us... from the bonds of the flesh!

Ghost: They said I'd like life... as a ghost... but so far... it's pretty... lousy.

Ghost: I already... miss my body. Do you know... I used to be... beautiful?

Robby's dad

Before Combat

Circle Lieutenant: You have no idea what awaits you.

Robby's dad: What's happened to my son?

Combat Start

Circle Lieutenant: No one leaves here alive!

Upon Rescue

Robby's Dad: Their leader is my son! I don't understand why he'd do this!

Note

This note bears the hastily scribbled fragments of many incantations. It says: 'The effect of the spell is still not certain. A larger test will be required. If all Founders' Falls can be severed from their bodies, it may be possible to do the same to all of Paragon City'

Stop Circle's soul severing rite

Unnecessary Solicitation

All of Founders' Falls would turn to ghosts? We can't let the Circle get away with this!

Mission Objective(s)

You tracked one of the Circle of Thorns mystics back to this outpost of Oranbega. You hope you'll be in time to stop the Circle's vile plot.

• Stop Circle's soul severing rite
  • 6 ritual stones to destroy

You defeated the Circle of Thorns and stopped their plot to sever the souls of everyone in Founders' Falls.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Arales (Agony Mage) (Boss)

Circle Sentries

Before Combat

Circle Minion 1: Arales is right, to kill these people is merciful.

Circle Minion 2: As ghosts, they can live with us in peace.

Combat Start

Circle Minion 1: No mercy for heroes!

Arales dialogue

Before Combat: If they become spirits, we need not fear them!
Combat Start: Robby is no more. I am Arales now, and I have work to do!

Debriefing

It's staggering to think of the damage those students almost caused. By attracting the Circle's attention, they nearly caused the death of every person in Founders' Falls. I'm sorry this Robby kid went over to the dark side like that. From everything his friends tell me, it seems he was a nice kid, a little intense maybe, but kind and sincere. I guess sometimes the need for power can make a person snap. As soon as he got a taste of it, he couldn't stop himself from wreaking havoc.

Find the Council defector (34-35)

Briefing

I arranged a meeting with Kevin Jones, a kid who got caught up in the Council and who's trying to get himself out. He's late. Hours late. Character, I'm getting worried that his superiors may have found out that he's planning to defect. Can you find the Council defector for me? If the Council found out he intended to meet me, there's no telling what they might do to him.

Mission Acceptance

I'd like you to raid a base where he used to be stationed and look for him there. Thank you, Character. I'm the one who convinced Kevin to come forward with information about the Council. If anything happens to him, I'll feel responsible.

Find Council defector

Unnecessary Solicitation

Have you found Kevin yet? The Council are onto him, I know it!

Mission Objective(s)

The alert at this small base has not been triggered, but there is a tension in the men you see. Something has them all on edge, and it isn't your presence.

• Find Council defector
  • 2 clues to find

Though you didn't find the defector, you did find some clues at the Council base. After calling in to your contact, you receive instructions to hit the streets and look for a Council soldier who can help you find the lab where the defector was taken.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• None

Patrol dialogue

Council 1: We cannot relax security for an instant!
Council 2: Indeed. The traitor has proven that!

You found a note.

Council note

You found this note on a desk in a Council base. It reads:

'If he has been talking to the heroes, there's only one thing to do: make him one of the War Wolves. That will give any other malcontents something to think about, and there'll be no place for him but with us.'

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

Interrogate Council soldiers

Unnecessary Solicitation

I need you to get back on the streets. One of these Council jokers knows where that lab is, I'm sure of it.

Mission Objective(s)

• Interrogate Council soldiers
  • Defeat 30 Council

You defeated the Council and learned some valuable information.

Enemies

Council

Council interrogations

After interrogating several Council soldiers, you learned the exact location of the lab where the grotesque War Wolves are created.

Rescue Council defector

Unnecessary Solicitation

Please hurry, Character. If the Council turns Kevin into a War Wolf, I'll never forgive myself.

Mission Objective(s)

It's hard to believe a normal human man can be turned into something as strange and repulsive as the War Wolves.

• Rescue Council defector
  • Find the defector

You rescued Kevin Jones, the Council defector.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

• Kevin Jones, the defector (NPC Hostage)
• Archon DeCarlo (Council Vortex Cor Leonis Archon Boss)

Council dialogue

Council 1: This will be an example.
Council 2: No one will defy us now!

You found some interesting files.

The War Wolves

These files detail some information on the War Wolves. The creatures are created by fusing a fragment of a dying Nictus with a human being. Sometimes the process results in a powerful Galaxy soldier, but when the Nictus fragment has decayed substantially, the result is a War Wolf. According to some notes in the back of the file, transformation into a War Wolf has become a popular punishment for the most intractable Council soldiers. The transformed man is left without the reason or wherewithal to rebel, and other potential rebels are quickly cowed.

Boss dialogue

Before combat

Archon DeCarlo: He'll be one of us, body and soul.

Combat start

Archon DeCarlo: Heroes! You are beneath me!

Hostage dialogue

Kevin Jones, the defector: Thank you, Character! I don't want to be a monster anymore.

Debriefing

I won't forget this, Character. You did a good thing for a man who's ready to turn his life around. With the information Kevin's provided, we're ready to move on several key Council installations. It looks like this could be a big break in our ongoing struggle against this menace.

Security Chief Missions

A character can complete each of these missions only once. If any of these missions is active or completed from another contact, this contact won't offer that mission.

Talk to the Brickstown Security Chief (30-31)

Briefing

The Brickstown Security Chief just let me know that the Council is on the move. Go talk to him and see if you can help out.

Mission Acceptance

We really don't have a good idea of how big the Council is, but we need to find out.

Talk to the Security Chief

Unnecessary Solicitation

Get over to the Brickstown Security Chief, on the double.

Mission Objective(s)

• Talk to the Security Chief

Security Chief (Brickstown)

Briefing

Head to the streets and take out some of the Council trash there. If I were you, I'd start at Mashu Bridge or the Crescent. Here's some information to help you get to know the area.

Brickstown briefing

You can sum up Brickstown in two words: Zigursky Penitentiary. Most people call it the Zig. It's the city's maximum security prison, where the worst of the worst end up incarcerated. Aside from the Zig, though, the area isn't too bad. It's called Brickstown because the whole place was rebuilt in brick after the big fire in 1918. A lot of people have strong ties to this area; maybe that's why the Council does so much recruiting here. The Council is a shady organization; nobody really knows how far its influence reaches. One thing's for certain: they're willing to take any steps necessary to extend it.

Keep peace in Brickstown

Unnecessary Solicitation

You should help the Security Chief with the Council!

Mission Objective(s)

• Keep peace in Brickstown
  • Defeat 35 Council

You have defeated 35 Council troops.

Enemies

Council

Debriefing

The Council worries me more than any other villain group in this city. It is comforting to know that Heroes like you have your eyes on them.

Talk to the Crey's Folly Security Chief (32-33)

Briefing

The Freakshow's presence on Crey's Folly is becoming a stranglehold. Talk to the Security Chief and see if you can make a dent.

Mission Acceptance

Good luck, Character.

Talk to the Security Chief

Unnecessary Solicitation

You need to help out the Security Chief!

Mission Objective(s)

• Talk to the Security Chief

Security Chief (Crey's Folly)

Briefing

The Freaks are rampant in this zone, especially in the Paragon Water Works and near the Crey Factories. Do what you can to contain them. Here's some info to get you started.

Crey's Folly briefing

It wasn't long ago that Crey's Folly was the center of industry in Paragon City. Back in the 1980s, Crey chose it as the site for most of their facilities. But all their holdings turned to rubble when the area became a major target in the Rikti War. Before long, people started calling the place Crey's Folly. Now, the Freakshow has their hooks on the place. The Freaks would be no worse than any other street thugs, if not for their state-of-the-art cybernetic equipment. Armed with that kind of power, the Freakshow have set up their own little kingdom in Crey's Folly. It's generally a good idea to enter this zone with at least a couple of other heroes.

Keep peace in Crey's Folly

Unnecessary Solicitation

You should help the Security Chief deal with those Freaks in Crey's Folly.

Mission Objective(s)

• Keep peace in Crey's Folly
  • Defeat 35 Freakshow

You have defeated 35 Freaks.

Enemies

Freakshow

Debriefing

Eventually we are going to have to try and take that zone back with numbers, Character. You made a nice dent today, though.

See the Eden Security Chief (36-37)

Briefing

The Security Chief for Eden needs help with the Devouring Earth. Please go talk to him about it.

Mission Acceptance

Eden is a rough area. Don't go alone, Character.

Talk to the Eden Security Chief

Unnecessary Solicitation

They need your help over in Eden!

Mission Objective(s)

• See the Eden Security Chief

Security Chief (Eden)

Briefing

Here's a briefing on Eden. The Devouring Earth are very active here, especially in Arcadia Park and the Utopia Complex. I really need your help, Character.

Eden briefing

Woodvale used to be a pleasant part of town, with parks, trees, and playgrounds everywhere. Kids used to play there until sundown every day. It took some damage during the Rikti War, but the city was on track to restore the area. That's when the Devouring Earth moved in. They erupted out of a giant mound that grew overnight, and quickly drove everyone else out of the place. Then they began to change it - to revert Woodvale back to a natural state. Now citizens call it Eden, because of its transformation into a primal world. It's no paradise for Heroes, though. Don't enter it unless you've got a pretty big team together.

Keep peace in Eden

Unnecessary Solicitation

The Security Chief told me you are needed in Eden.

Mission Objective(s)

• Keep peace in Eden
  • Defeat 35 Devouring Earth

You have defeated 35 Devouring Earth creatures.

Enemies

Devouring Earth

Debriefing

You have our thanks for helping out with the Devouring Earth, Character. Eden is a very dangerous area.