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{{future}}
== Overview ==
== Overview ==
{{Infobox Contact
{{Infobox Contact
|name=James Harvan
|name=James Harvan
|image=James Harvan.jpg
|image=James Harvan.jpg
|img_capt=Renowned Archaeologist<br />(Atlas Park)
|img_capt=Renowned Archaeologist
|zone=[[Atlas Park]]
|zone=[[Atlas Park]]
|x=-565|y=17|z=-186
|x=-565|y=17|z=-186
|zone2=[[Sharkhead Isle]]
|zone2=[[Sharkhead Isle]]
|x2=?|y2=?|z2=?
|x2=-236.5|y2=32|z2=-638
|levels={{red|??-??}}
|levels=40-50
|introed=''None''
|introed=''None''
|intros=''None''
|intros=''None''
|enemies={{Missing}}
|enemies={{Enemy Arachnos}}{{Enemy Incarnate Automatons}}{{Enemy Pandora's Might}}
&nbsp;
|badge=}}
|badge=}}
{{Req SSA|arc=Pandora's Box|ep=4}}
{{Req SSA|arc=Pandora's Box|ep=4}}


{{Contact Overview|Name=James Harvan|City=HV|Zone=Atlas Park|x=-565|y=17|z=-186|Zone2=Sharkhead Isle|x2=?|y2=?|z2=?|Pronoun=his|HoodYN=Y|Hood=Hyperion Way|Hood2={{missing}}|OriginYN=N|Origin=|LevelYN=Y|Level=}} For heroes, he is standing in front of the building 131 yards south of the [[Architect Entertainment]] building; for villains, he is standing {{missing}}. James Harvan is the fourth contact in the [[Pandora's Box (SSA)|Pandora's Box]] [[Signature Story Arc]] for both [[Hero (Alignment)|heroes]] and [[Villain (Alignment)|villains]], available on the [[Paragon Market]] or free with [[VIP Player|subscription]].
{{Contact Overview|Name=James Harvan|City=HV|Zone=Atlas Park|x=-565|y=17|z=-186|Zone2=Sharkhead Isle|x2=-236.5|y2=32|z2=-638|Pronoun=his|HoodYN=Y|Hood=Hyperion Way|Hood2=Port Recluse|OriginYN=N|Origin=|LevelYN=Y|Level=}} For heroes, he is standing in front of the building 131 yards south of the [[Architect Entertainment]] building; for villains, he is standing 135 yards south of Arbiter Friesen. James Harvan is the fourth contact in the [[Pandora's Box (SSA)|Pandora's Box]] [[Signature Story Arc]] for both [[Hero (Alignment)|heroes]] and [[Villain (Alignment)|villains]], available on the [[Paragon Market]] or free with [[VIP Player|subscription]].


__toc__
__toc__
Line 26: Line 26:


=== Contact Introduces ===
=== Contact Introduces ===
None.
None


=== Description ===
=== Description ===
Line 33: Line 33:
James Harvan is known as the leading expert in research on artifacts from the Archaic period of Ancient Greece. While his peers acknowledge that much of his work is groundbreaking, he is still seen as a fairly unorthodox figure in the field of archaeology. This is primarily due to his insistence that much of Greek mythology, including references to supernatural events, are accurate depictions of history.
James Harvan is known as the leading expert in research on artifacts from the Archaic period of Ancient Greece. While his peers acknowledge that much of his work is groundbreaking, he is still seen as a fairly unorthodox figure in the field of archaeology. This is primarily due to his insistence that much of Greek mythology, including references to supernatural events, are accurate depictions of history.


=== Too Low Level ===
=== Prior to Introduction ===
{{Missing Too Low}}
{{Missing Prior}}
 
=== Content was not free ===
This contact used to require payment, but is now available to all players. The dialogue immediately below is not now seen in-game.
 
{{darkorange|In order to play James Harvan's storyarc, you will need to have purchased the fourth episode of the second signature story arc, ''[[Pandora's Box]]'', or be a [[VIP Player|VIP subscriber]].}}


=== Initial Contact ===
=== Initial Contact ===
{{Missing Initial}}
None


=== Greeting ===
=== Greeting ===
{{Missing Greeting}}
Good day, {{Character}}. I'm ready when you are.


=== Content Not Purchased ===
=== Too Busy ===
{{darkorange|In order to play James Harvan's storyarc, you will need to have purchased the fourth episode of the second signature story arc, ''[[Pandora's Box]]'', or be a [[VIP Player|VIP subscriber]].}}
{{Missing Prior}}
 
=== Too Low Level ===
{{Missing Too Low}}


== Story Arc ==
== Story Arc ==
=== HERO: Story Arc Name{{Anchors|hero|heroesStory Arc Name}} ===
=== {{UL|HERO: The Price for Fire}}{{Anchors|hero|heroes}} ===
{{ArcAward|m=?}}
{{ArcAward|m=5}}
==== Souvenir ====
==== Souvenir ====
{{Missing}}
{{Souvenir|1=A Blade of Bronze|section=Hero Souvenir's Text}}
==== {{UL|Part One: Something or Other}} ====
{{Mission:The Price for Fire (Hero) - Part One: The Illusion of Safety}}
{{Missing}}
{{Mission:The Price for Fire (Hero) - Part Two: Men of the Machine}}
{{Mission:The Price for Fire - Part Three: Parental Ambiguity}}


=== VILLAIN: Story Arc Name{{Anchors|villain|villains|Story Arc Name}} ===
=== {{UL|VILLAIN: The Price for Fire}}{{Anchors|villain|villains}} ===
{{ArcAward|m=?}}
{{ArcAward|m=5}}
==== Souvenir ====
 
{{Missing}}
'''Souvenir'''
==== {{UL|Part One: Something or Other}} ====
 
{{Missing}}
[[A_Blade_of_Bronze#Villain_Souvenir.27s_Text|A Blade of Bronze]]
 
This polished metal blade no longer shines with cosmic energy, as it did when a Pandora entity cut into Doctor Harvan with it. After everything you've been through, in fighting to claim the power from Pandora's Box, you can't help but wonder if all this conflict was the original goal of the Incarnate Zeus. All of this conflict and mayhem may simply be...
 
'''The Price for Fire'''
 
{{Mission:The Price for Fire (Villain) - Part One: While the Iron is Hot}}
{{Mission:The Price for Fire (Villain) - Part Two: That Dangerous Game}}
{{Mission:The Price for Fire - Part Three: Parental Ambiguity}}
 
== See Also ==
*[[Signature Story Arc]]
*[[Pandora's Box]]
 
[[Category:Pandora's Box Contacts]]
[[Category:Signature Arc Contacts]]

Latest revision as of 20:47, 3 October 2021

Overview

James Harvan
James Harvan.jpg
Renowned Archaeologist
Zone Atlas Park
Coordinates (-565, 17, -186)[Copy]
Zone Sharkhead Isle
Coordinates (-236.5, 32, -638)[Copy]
Level Range 40-50
Introduced By None
Introduces None
Enemy Groups  
v • d • e

Signature Story Arc Pandora's Box, Episode 4.

James Harvan is a hero and villain contact in the Hyperion Way neighborhood of Atlas Park at coordinates (-565, 17, -186)[Copy]  and the Port Recluse neighborhood of Sharkhead Isle at coordinates (-236.5, 32, -638)[Copy] . For heroes, he is standing in front of the building 131 yards south of the Architect Entertainment building; for villains, he is standing 135 yards south of Arbiter Friesen. James Harvan is the fourth contact in the Pandora's Box Signature Story Arc for both heroes and villains, available on the Paragon Market or free with subscription.


Introductions

Contact Introduced By

None; James Harvan should be approached in-game.

Contact Introduces

None

Description

Renowned Archaeologist

James Harvan is known as the leading expert in research on artifacts from the Archaic period of Ancient Greece. While his peers acknowledge that much of his work is groundbreaking, he is still seen as a fairly unorthodox figure in the field of archaeology. This is primarily due to his insistence that much of Greek mythology, including references to supernatural events, are accurate depictions of history.

Prior to Introduction

Missing Prior to Introduction Dialogue

Content was not free

This contact used to require payment, but is now available to all players. The dialogue immediately below is not now seen in-game.

In order to play James Harvan's storyarc, you will need to have purchased the fourth episode of the second signature story arc, Pandora's Box, or be a VIP subscriber.

Initial Contact

None

Greeting

Good day, Character. I'm ready when you are.

Too Busy

Missing Prior to Introduction Dialogue

Too Low Level

Missing Too Low Level Dialogue

Story Arc

HERO: The Price for Fire

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 5 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

A Blade of Bronze

This polished metal blade no longer shines with cosmic energy, as it did when a Pandora entity cut into Doctor Harvan with it. After everything you've been through, in fighting to claim the power from Pandora's Box, you can't help but wonder if all this conflict was the original goal of the Incarnate Zeus. All of this conflict and mayhem may simply be...

The Price for Fire

Your troubles began when Doctor Harvan came to you with a plan to recapture the power released from Pandora's Box. You went to the Freedom Phalanx headquarters, Fort Trident, to retrieve the Antikythera. When you arrived, however, you found the base under attack. Arachnos had overpowered Positron, and had stolen the Antikythera. You fought off the remaining soldiers and spoke with Positron, who expressed his determination in retrieving the artifact.

Together, you and Positron retrieved the Antikythera, and you brought it back to Doctor Harvan. Harvan led you to his lab, which he claimed had been built based on designs his father had left behind. Harvan activated the device inside, which began to draw in the released energies of Pandora's Box.

Unfortunately, the Pandora entities that had attacked you earlier arrived as well, and you had to fight off a swarm of golden beings. Just as the device finished its process, Harvan was cut down by an errant attack. You moved to his aid, but Harvan was acting strangely - his speech was muffled by the whirring sounds of broken machinery.

It was at that moment you realized the truth: James Harvan was an automaton, an artificial creation intended to appear human. Nemesis revealed himself to you, reveling in his plan's success. He then began to empower his automatons with the energy from Pandora's Box, and sent them to destroy you. You escaped intact, but it appears that Nemesis is now in possession of a power of mythical proportions. Who knows what he might have planned...

Part One: The Illusion of Safety

Briefing

Character. Thank you for coming. I realize that our efforts in retrieving Pandora's Box were... not entirely successful. The creatures that have emerged from Pandora's Box remain a threat to all of us, but I've noticed a pattern in their behavior. I believe that there may be a way of altering their structure, transforming them into a purer state of energy, which can then be controlled.

Positron insisted that you be closely involved in this project, for obvious reasons. I'm inclined to agree. Your capabilities would be most appreciated if we wish to tackle these problems directly.

  • Agree to form a task force

If we're going to try to contain the freed energy from Pandora's Box, we're going to need to use the one tool known to be capable of altering the Box's power emanations: the Antikythera.

Currently, I believe, Positron has it held in Fort Trident for safekeeping. We'll need to have it on-hand before we can make any progress towards controlling the power of those creatures.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Character, we need the Antikythera before we can proceed. I'm afraid any attempts to corral the energy of Pandora's Box would be futile without it.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map PHALANX HQ ARACHNOS ATTACK.png
Map: PHALANX_HQ_ARACHNOS_ATTACK

What's going on here? There are Arachnos agents everywhere!

  • Retrieve the Antikythera
    • Speak with Positron

You have fended off an Arachnos attack... but not before they could steal the Antikythera!

Enemies

Arachnos

Notable NPCs:

Silver Mantis Dialogue
Briefing

As you approach, Positron struggles to his feet. You can see numerous tears and holes in his armor, where Arachnos managed to punch through his defenses.

Character... I must say, you have impeccable timing.

  • What happened here, Positron?

Ever since Pandora's Box was opened, the base has been plagued by those creatures that attacked you underneath Zigursky. Doctor Harvan believes that they are drawn to the Antikythera for some reason.

I can only assume that Arachnos took notice. I was holding them off, but Silver Mantis managed to get behind me while I was occupied by her soldiers. I couldn't keep them at bay and defend against her attacks simultaneously.

  • Where's the rest of the Phalanx?
They've all been responding to distress calls. Those Pandora creatures have been popping up all over the city, wreaking havoc.
Thankfully, they generally seek out targets capable of defending themselves - I think they may be drawn to strength - but responses to these attacks has taken up most of the Phalanx's resources.
  • What about the Antikythera?
Positron clenches his fists tight.
Arachnos knew exactly what they were looking for, Character. Given that Mako ambushed you earlier, I'm inclined to believe that Arachnos has been monitoring all of our movements ever since we picked up Doctor Harvan.
It shouldn't surprise me, really... I consistently underestimate the tenacity of my opponents. It's a flaw I intend to correct immediately.
  • Any chance we can pursue them?
Positron chuckles softly, making a hollow, metallic sound through his helmet.
I suppose that's the one element of this disaster that I haven't managed to bungle.
Positron holds up a small, handheld device. A white light pings repeatedly on the screen.
I planted a tracking device on the Antikythera shortly after it arrived in Fort Trident. Arachnos doesn't appear to have discovered it, so we know where they're taking the artifact.
  • Excellent. I'll get it back in no time.
I'm coming with you, Character. I've been trying my best to manage the Phalanx remotely, to coordinate everyone's efforts in the most efficient way possible... but that's not leadership. I've sat on the sidelines for too long.
Arachnos attacked me, they attacked the Phalanx, and they stole from us the one hope we have of controlling the chaos of Pandora's Box. I refuse to let that stand. If Arachnos can mobilize a surprise attack when the Phalanx is at its most vulnerable, then I can damn well do the same.
  • That's what I like to hear.
  • They took the Antikythera?
Positron clenches his fists tight.
Arachnos knew exactly what they were looking for, Character. Given that Mako ambushed you earlier, I'm inclined to believe that Arachnos has been monitoring all of our movements ever since we picked up Doctor Harvan.
It shouldn't surprise me, really... I consistently underestimate the tenacity of my opponents. It's a flaw I intend to correct immediately.
  • Any chance we can pursue them?
This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

Debriefing

Doctor Harvan pales visibly when you relate the events inside Fort Trident to him.

This is very trying news, Character. Without the Antikythera, any attempt at containing the energy released by Pandora's Box will be utterly futile. We need to retrieve it as quickly as possible.

We have time... I doubt Arachnos will be able to decode the Antikythera's readings without at least a few weeks of study. I daresay that they could kidnap the entire mainstream archaeological community and would not gain a single iota of usable knowledge.

Part Two: Men of the Machine

Briefing

Character, I'm not sure what to do next. Arachnos controls every island in the Rogue Isles... they could be keeping it anywhere.

Harvan shrugs apologetically.

I'm afraid I'm no good in situations like these. What are you planning to do?

  • Positron's tracking the Antikythera's location. We'll have it back in no time.

Harvan's nervous expression fades, and he develops a knowing smile.

I see. Positron always did seem to have things planned out two steps ahead. I daresay that the two of you should be able to make short work of Arachnos's thugs. Give them hell, Character.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Well? Do you have it? ...Oh. I'm sorry, Character, I'm just anxious. Every moment that passes makes it more likely Arachnos will learn how to use the Antikythera, and once they do...

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map ARACHNOS STOLEN ANTIKYTHERA.png
Map: ARACHNOS_STOLEN_ANTIKYTHERA

You've never seen Positron quite like this. He seems... more fired up than usual.

  • Take Back the Antikythera
    • Find the Antikythera

With Positron's help, you managed to take back the Antikythera.

Enemies

Arachnos
Pandora's Might

Notable NPCs

Briefing

Character, I believe it's time. The tracking beacon for the Antikythera has stopped moving somewhere inside the Grandville area of the Rogue Isles.

I've arranged with Longbow for immediate transportation to the area, but they won't be able to stay for long. We'll need to get inside, retrieve the Antikythera, and leave as quickly as possible. Any delay would give time for the larger bulk of Arachnos's forces to learn of our presence and reinforce their position, which could prove disastrous.

Are you prepared to depart, Character?

  • I'm ready, Positron.
Positron Dialogue
Arachnos Dialogue
Black Scorpion Dialogue

Debriefing

When you produce the Antikythera, Harvan breathes a deep sigh of relief.

Oh, fantastic, Character! We can get started immediately.

Come, I have something to show you...

Part Three: Parental Ambiguity

Briefing

I have a... well, I suppose you would call it a lab. It's something that I inherited when my father passed away. I didn't think I'd ever need to make use of it, but... but circumstances have changed.

Doctor Harvan sighs.

I haven't been... completely honest with you, Character. When I opened Pandora's Box, I expected to inherit the same power as the heroes of Greek myth. All of my research indicated that whomever opens the Box is granted the power of Zeus, and I believed that. I believed that down to the core of my being.

So, when I learned what my father had built, I didn't understand what it was for.

  • ...What, exactly, are we talking about, Harvan?

Doctor Harvan appears to be at a loss for words.

Perhaps it would be easier to show you, Character. The lab isn't far. I think things might be easier to explain once you've seen the lab's equipment.

Meet up with Doctor Harvan

Unnecessary Solicitation

The lab isn't far from here. I promise to do my best to explain once we're there.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map HARVANS LAB.png
Map: HARVANS_LAB

This lab clearly hasn't been used in some time.

  • Proceed to Harvan's Lab
    • Meet up with Doctor Harvan
    • Proceed through lab
    • Talk with Harvan
    • Approach the amplifier
    • Fend off the incoming Pandora entities!
    • Defeat Harvan's attacker!
    • Defeat the Macht Jaegers!

Nemesis has stolen the power of Pandora's Box. You'd better get out while you still can.

Enemies

Incarnate Automatons
Pandora's Might

Notable NPCs

James Harvan Dialogue
Briefing

Harvan smiles sheepishly at you.

Welcome to my laboratory, Character. Impressive, is it not?

  • What is all this, Harvan?

My father had this lab built as a sort of amplifier for the manipulative effects of the Antikythera. If it can establish a firm connection, it magnifies the capabilities of the Antikythera several hundred times, allowing it to draw in any errant energy from Pandora's Box.

I knew this lab's purpose, but again, I couldn't understand why my father had it built. Everything I knew about Pandora's Box implied that the power would be granted directly to the person that opened it. There would be no need to draw that power from limbo, because I never thought it would manifest in this way.

Harvan frowns apprehensively.

Clearly, I missed something in my research. My father knew that the energy would dissipate somehow, but I never saw what it was.

  • Do you have any theories?

The subject appears to cause Harvan some level of discomfort.

I'm... not sure, Character. Perhaps its placement inside Zigursky had altered it in some way, but I find that doubtful. From the evidence you uncovered, no one at Zigursky even knew what Pandora's Box was, much less how it worked.

The only other explanation is... well. It's probably just me kicking myself for nothing, but...

The stories about Pandora's Box, and about the gods... there's a sentient force guiding this power, Character. It blesses mortals with great power, and those mortals go on to live great lives and to do great things. So far, the Box appears to have granted its power to whoever opens it. However...

Harvan bites his lip.

It may have found me wanting, somehow. It's possible that the Box simply decided that I wasn't worthy of its power, for whatever reason.

  • It's... possible, I suppose.

Regardless, we're here to correct the mistake I made underneath Zigursky. If this device functions as I expect it should, then we'll have possession of all of the power from Pandora's Box, sealed and contained, ready for whatever use you deem fit.

All you need to do is bring the Antikythera close enough to the device to establish a connection.

Do be ready for a scuffle, though, Character. As the energy from Pandora's Box is drawn here, I expect the creatures that attacked us earlier will be arriving as well.

  • I can handle them, Harvan. Let's get started.
Charging the Amplifier

Ambush! At this point, you are ambushed by several successive waves of Pandora's Might.

First Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 17%. ALL SYSTEMS NOMINAL.

Second Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 31%. CONTAINMENT FIELD IS STABLE.

Third Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 54%. WARNING: MINOR STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY DAMAGE DETECTED.

Fourth Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 78%. WARNING: ENERGY CONTAINMENT FIELD APPROACHING MAXIMUM CAPACITY.

Fifth Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 100%. MAXIMUM CAPACITY REACHED.
The Price for Fire Harvan's Lab.jpg
CONTAINMENT FIELD STABILIZED. STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AT 83%.

James Harvan: We did it...
James Harvan: The energy from Pandora's Box...
James Harvan: Character! It's done!
James Harvan: Pandora's Box is finally-

EXTERNAL ENERGY DUMP INITIATED. TRANSFERRING...

James Harvan: ...What?
James Harvan: Energy transfer? But I didn't...

The Price for Fire Harvan Attacked.jpg

James Harvan: Augh!

James Harvan's attacker is defeated:

The Price for Fire Harvan Down.jpg

James Harvan: Oh dear...
James Harvan: I appear to b- *bzzt* -eee a little worse for wear.
James Harvan: Character... *whirr* *klick* if you would be so kind as to-to- *klick* -to-to-to-to-to-to-to-to...

Excellent. Simply excellent.
You have outperformed my wildest expectations, Doctor Harvan. Truly, a remarkable performance.
The Price for Fire Nemesis Enters.jpg

Nemesis: I daresay, he's the most convincing one yet. Wouldn't you agree, Character?

The Price for Fire Nemesis.jpg

Nemesis: But enough of my self-congratulations. I'm sure you wish to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Nemesis: Without you, Character, none of this would have been possible. You have my thanks.

Confront James Harven

Unnecessary Contact

Doctor Harvan has much to answer for, and that's not something that can be done remotely. You'll need to go speak with him directly.

Mission Objective(s)

  • Confront James Harvan

Briefing

Harvan meets your gaze with as much dignity as he can muster. A long, dark gash leads from his shoulder down to his chest. From inside, you can hear faint whirring sounds, like that of a small engine.

Character. I... I don't quite know what to say...

  • I have no reason to speak with a mindless machine.
Harvan sputters in protestation.
Mindless machine... but I-
A look of profound resignation crosses Harvan's face, and he averts his gaze.
No, no. That... I suppose that is fair. Goodbye, Character.
  • Leave
  • Well-played, Harvan. You had me fooled.
Harvan takes on an expression of profound resignation.
You and me both, I'm afraid. At my core, I still believe that I am Professor James Harvan, PhD. Memories of my work, of my father...
Harvan's brows furrow.
Funny... until now it never really occurred to me that I cannot picture my father's face. I suppose that realization would have been alarming, an hour ago. Now, though, it simply fits. My life, my every experience... it's all a sham, Character.
  • So, what are you planning to do now?
Harvan chuckles softly. As he does, a soft rattle comes from the opening in his chest.
What indeed, Character. My every memory and experience have been exposed as a fraud... hah! Even worse than that.
I know who Nemesis is, Character. I know his reputation. Plans within plans within plans.
So, who's to say that my next action isn't simply another part of his grand scheme? What if this very conversation is part of some grand Nemesis Plot?
Harvan shakes his head, smiling.
I have no idea what I'm going to do, Character. I... I need some time to think, before I can make that decision.
  • Alright then. Goodbye, Harvan.
  • So, you're one of Nemesis's toys after all.
Harvan barks out a short laugh.
Ha! Quite. A toy! Hahahaha!
Harvan's tone devolves into desperation.
I can't properly express my situation to you, Character. I have no memory of anything related to Nemesis, or his plans, or anything related to him. Until a few minutes ago, I fully believed that I was carrying out my life's work, my legacy. But... none of that really exists, does it? I can't actually have ambitions, can I? It's not possible! It's all just an elaborate hoax, built to deceive! I've got everyone fooled, oh yes I do! Haha!
You can't understand, Character. To realize that every facet of your being, not just your actions but your very thoughts, all of it simply a tool for another man to use...
It is a mountainous revelation, Character. It crushes me to think on it. And yet, I can do nothing else.
  • This is where we part ways, Harvan.

VILLAIN: The Price for Fire

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 5 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

A Blade of Bronze

This polished metal blade no longer shines with cosmic energy, as it did when a Pandora entity cut into Doctor Harvan with it. After everything you've been through, in fighting to claim the power from Pandora's Box, you can't help but wonder if all this conflict was the original goal of the Incarnate Zeus. All of this conflict and mayhem may simply be...

The Price for Fire

Part One: While the Iron is Hot

Briefing

Character... thank you for coming. I know that our time working together has been a bit... rocky. And... and we've certainly had our setbacks. However, I still believe there is a way to salvage your original intent in finding Pandora's Box.

The powers loosed by the box are unstable, but they can still be harnessed. If you are still interested in doing so, I know of a method that may be able to transform the creatures that emanated from Pandora's Box back into a purer, more usable form of energy. Once that energy has been contained, we will be able to decide how to use it.

  • Agree to form a strike force

If we're going to try to harness the freed energy from Pandora's Box, we're going to need to use the one tool known to be capable of altering the Box's power emanations: the Antikythera.

Currently, I believe, Lastri has it stored aboard the U.S.S. Mitscher. We'll need to have it on-hand before we can make any progress towards harnessing the power of those creatures.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Character, we need the Antikythera before we can proceed. I'm afraid any attempts to corral the energy of Pandora's Box would be futile without it.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map ATLANTIC OCEAN ARACHNOS ATTACK.png
Map: ATLANTIC_OCEAN_ARACHNOS_ATTACK

Something is very, VERY wrong here.

  • Retrieve the Antikythera
    • 2 Arachnos Fliers to destroy
    • Retake the USS Mitscher
    • Talk to Lastri

You have fended off an Arachnos attack... but not before they could steal the Antikythera!

Enemies

Arachnos

Notable NPCs

Arachnos Dialogue
Briefing

Lastri is gritting her teeth in frustration. After a moment, she takes a short breath, stands tall, and meets your gaze.

Sir / Ma'am, I must apologize. I assured you that I would take care of the Mitscher, and that my men could staff and defend it if necessary. As you can see, we failed to defend the Mitscher from attack. I claim full responsibility.

  • Where is the Antikythera, Lastri?

Lastri flinches at the mention of the Antikythera. She averts her eyes in shame.

The Antikythera was their target, Character. Once they had taken the Mitscher, Arachnos tore through every cargo hold in the ship. I... I believe they have taken it, sir / ma'am.

  • How did they manage to find the Mitscher?
Ever since Pandora's Box was opened, the Mitscher has been harried by the same creatures that attacked you underneath Zigursky Penitentiary. Doctor Harvan believes it is because of the presence of the Antikythera
It is... possible that Arachnos managed to discover a way of tracking either them or whatever force is drawing them to the Antikythera. However...
The Antikythera itself is the only tool we know of capable of tracking and measuring energy signatures related to Pandora's Box. And even if we were to assume that Arachnos was in possession of such a device...
  • Then why would they need the Antikythera in the first place?
Yes, exactly. However... there is another explanation.
Lastri's cheeks begin to burn with shame again.
It is possible... that my once-over of the Arachnos Flier that Captain Mako donated to us was... not quite thorough enough. If that is the case, and the Flier was indeed bugged, it would have been a simple matter to set up an ambush like this.
Unfortunately, the Flier was Arachnos's first target when they appeared. Any attempt to verify my suspicions would involve a deep-sea salvage operation, I'm afraid.
  • Mako. I should have known.
I'll begin monitoring all internal Arachnos communications for mentions of the Antikythera or Pandora's Box. Within a few days, I should be able to-
  • No, Lastri. I'll handle this personally.
  • Hmph. I knew you couldn't be trusted.
Character! Sir / Ma'am, I...
Lastri cuts herself off momentarily, lips tight. She puts her hand to her forehead for a moment. After calming herself, she continues.
Sir / Ma'am. I realize that I have not been forthcoming about my employer, or his motives. I apologize for this, but it remains a necessity. Anonymity is of paramount importance to him, and it is not something I can be flexible with.
However, I entered into a contract with you to establish a power base, to allow you to rival Arachnos for control over the Rogue Isles. And I intend to honor that contract. I can assure you, that despite this setback, we can and will recover. Allow me this chance to prove to you my intentions. You will not regret it.
  • If you're not with Arachnos, how did they locate the ship?
Ever since Pandora's Box was opened, the Mitscher has been harried by the same creatures that attacked you underneath Zigursky Penitentiary. Doctor Harvan believes it is because of the presence of the Antikythera
It is... possible that Arachnos managed to discover a way of tracking either them or whatever force is drawing them to the Antikythera. However...
The Antikythera itself is the only tool we know of capable of tracking and measuring energy signatures related to Pandora's Box. And even if we were to assume that Arachnos was in possession of such a device...
  • Then why would they need the Antikythera in the first place?
This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

Debriefing

Doctor Harvan pales visibly when you relate the events aboard the Mitscher to him.

This is very trying news, Character. Without the Antikythera, any attempt at controlling the energy released by Pandora's Box will be utterly futile. We need to retrieve it as quickly as possible.

We have time... I doubt Arachnos will be able to decode the Antikythera's readings without at least a few weeks of study. I daresay that they could kidnap the entire mainstream archaeological community and would not gain a single iota of usable knowledge.

Part Two: That Dangerous Game

Briefing

Character, I'm not sure what to do next. Arachnos controls every island in the Rogue Isles... they could be keeping it anywhere.

Harvan shrugs apologetically.

I'm afraid I'm no good in situations like these. What are you planning to do?

  • Simple. I'll find Captain Mako and beat the info out of him.

Harvan seems somewhat taken aback by your matter-of-fact tone.

Oh. I... I see. Well, I suppose that is one way to do it.

If that's what works, then I'm for it. Good luck, Character!

Confront Captain Mako

Unnecessary Solicitation

...Oh. I'm sorry, Character, I'm just anxious. Every moment that passes makes it more likely Arachnos will learn how to use the Antikythera, and once they do...

Mission Objective(s)

  • Confront Captain Mako

Briefing

Captain Mako stiffens as you approach. He jerks his head to the side, indicating a corner for the two of you to talk. When he speaks, it is in a low, hushed tone.

Have you gone insane? What are you doing here? You're not exactly on the best terms with Recluse right now, Character. This is the last place you should be, and you certainly shouldn't be talking to me like this.

Kinda hard for me to play double agent if you're just going to walk up and have a chat. You're going to get yourself killed.

  • Can it, Mako. The Mitscher was attacked, and I want answers.
That sucks, Character, and I feel for you. I just don't know why you're bothering me about it.
  • Attacked by ARACHNOS. You bugged the flier, didn't you?
This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
  • Perhaps the beating didn't make it clear. You don't scare me.
Mako makes a face at you. It's hard to tell with sharks, but you think it's exasperation.
No one's going to attack you here, Character. Cardinal rule. No infighting in the boss's house. Still, you've got some serious brass coming here, Character. I'll give you that.
Now, I know you well enough to realize that you're smarter than this. You wouldn't risk exposing our little deal if you didn't have a reason, so you may as well have out with it.
  • The Mitscher was attacked, and the Antikythera is missing.
That sucks, Character, and I feel for you. I just don't know why you're bothering me about it.
  • Attacked by ARACHNOS. You bugged the flier, didn't you?
Mako flails and makes a series of hushing noises at the mention of the word 'flier'. He spares a glance at Ghost Widow, who returns his look with an icy stare.
Hey, man / lady, keep it down. I really don't need it getting out that I sent you a flier, okay?
Look, I didn't bug the thing. I didn't need to. If I'd wanted to find the Mitscher I would have just called your ladyfriend and set up an appointment.
But I'm not the one in charge of production of those things, ok? Scorpion is. I saw an opportunity to disrupt his operations and cement my deal with you at the same time, so I took it. He may be more cautious than I gave him credit for.
  • You expect me to believe that? You work together.
Mako manages to roll his eyes, which looks especially odd given his facial structure.
Oh, for the love of- do you even know how Arachnos works, Character? We're all in one big game of King of the Mountain, here. Just because Recluse won doesn't mean the rest of us stopped playing.
Scorpion does his own thing, and I do mine. Sometimes we work together, sometimes we stab each other in the back. That's life in Arachnos. Heck, that's life in the Isles, but whatever. I can fix this.
You want the Antikythera, and I want the... ah, exit strategy you're offering if things go sour with Recluse. Can't predict that guy ever since his girlfriend came back from the dead.
  • What are you planning?
Mako grins, baring multiple rows of jagged teeth.
I can help you, Character. Ever since you and Harvan popped open Pandora's Box, Recluse has pretty much given up on that chase. He figures it's ok if he doesn't have Statesman's power, just as long as no one else does, either.
Meaning, you dropped pretty low on our hit list. No offense.
Anyway, it shouldn't be too big a deal for me to run a raid on Scorpion's stash. That sort of thing happens all the time, and to the other patrons, it'll just look like I'm trying to get it for myself. Meet me at these coordinates, and we'll open that tin can right up. Bet there's plenty of meat buried underneath all that metal...
Mako stares off in the general direction of Black Scorpion, hungrily. After a moment, his attention snaps back to the present.
Oh. And we'll get your Anty-ka-whatsit back too.
  • See you there.
  • Regardless, I need the Antikythera back.
Mako grins, baring multiple rows of jagged teeth.
I can help you, Character. Ever since you and Harvan popped open Pandora's Box, Recluse has pretty much given up on that chase. He figures it's ok if he doesn't have Statesman's power, just as long as no one else does, either.
Meaning, you dropped pretty low on our hit list. No offense.
Anyway, it shouldn't be too big a deal for me to run a raid on Scorpion's stash. That sort of thing happens all the time, and to the other patrons, it'll just look like I'm trying to get it for myself. Meet me at these coordinates, and we'll open that tin can right up. Bet there's plenty of meat buried underneath all that metal...
Mako stares off in the general direction of Black Scorpion, hungrily. After a moment, his attention snaps back to the present.
Oh. And we'll get your Anty-ka-whatsit back too
  • See you there.
Take Back the Antikythera

Unnecessary Solicitation

Well? Do you have it?

...Oh. I'm sorry, Character, I'm just anxious. Every moment that passes makes it more likely Arachnos will learn how to use the Antikythera, and once they do...

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map ARACHNOS STOLEN ANTIKYTHERA.png
Map: ARACHNOS_STOLEN_ANTIKYTHERA

Mako seemed eager to accompany you.
You've got to wonder just how much bad blood there is between the patrons, if he's willing to go this far.

  • Take back the Antikythera
    • Speak with Captain Mako (optional)
    • Find the Antikythera

With Mako's help, you managed to take back the Antikythera.

Enemies

Arachnos
Pandora's Might

Notable NPCs

Briefing

There is a distinct predatory gleam in Mako's eye as he greets you.

Let's do this. I'm getting... hungry.

  • No way. I still don't trust you. I'm doing this alone.
  • Alright, come on, then.
Mako's Help Refused
Arachnos Dialogue
Black Scorpion Dialogue

Debriefing

When you produce the Antikythera, Harvan breathes a deep sigh of relief.

Oh, fantastic, Character! We can get started immediately.

Come, I have something to show you...

Part Three: Parental Ambiguity

Briefing

I have a... well, I suppose you would call it a lab. It's something that I inherited when my father passed away. I didn't think I'd ever need to make use of it, but... but circumstances have changed.

Doctor Harvan sighs.

I haven't been... completely honest with you, Character. When I opened Pandora's Box, I expected to inherit the same power as the heroes of Greek myth. All of my research indicated that whomever opens the Box is granted the power of Zeus, and I believed that. I believed that down to the core of my being.

So, when I learned what my father had built, I didn't understand what it was for.

  • ...What, exactly, are we talking about, Harvan?

Doctor Harvan appears to be at a loss for words.

Perhaps it would be easier to show you, Character. The lab isn't far. I think things might be easier to explain once you've seen the lab's equipment.

Meet up with Doctor Harvan

Unnecessary Solicitation

The lab isn't far from here. I promise to do my best to explain once we're there.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map HARVANS LAB.png
Map: HARVANS_LAB

This lab clearly hasn't been used in some time.

  • Proceed to Harvan's Lab
    • Meet up with Doctor Harvan
    • Proceed through lab
    • Talk with Harvan
    • Approach the amplifier
    • Fend off the incoming Pandora entities!
    • Defeat Harvan's attacker!
    • Defeat the Macht Jaegers!

Nemesis has stolen the power of Pandora's Box. You'd better get out while you still can.

Enemies

Incarnate Automatons
Pandora's Might

Notable NPCs

James Harvan Dialogue
Briefing

Harvan smiles sheepishly at you.

Welcome to my laboratory, Character. Impressive, is it not?

  • What is all this, Harvan?

My father had this lab built as a sort of amplifier for the manipulative effects of the Antikythera. If it can establish a firm connection, it magnifies the capabilities of the Antikythera several hundred times, allowing it to draw in any errant energy from Pandora's Box.

I knew this lab's purpose, but again, I couldn't understand why my father had it built. Everything I knew about Pandora's Box implied that the power would be granted directly to the person that opened it. There would be no need to draw that power from limbo, because I never thought it would manifest in this way.

Harvan frowns apprehensively.

Clearly, I missed something in my research. My father knew that the energy would dissipate somehow, but I never saw what it was.

  • Do you have any theories?

The subject appears to cause Harvan some level of discomfort.

I'm... not sure, Character. Perhaps its placement inside Zigursky had altered it in some way, but I find that doubtful. From the evidence you uncovered, no one at Zigursky even knew what Pandora's Box was, much less how it worked.

The only other explanation is... well. It's probably just me kicking myself for nothing, but...

The stories about Pandora's Box, and about the gods... there's a sentient force guiding this power, Character. It blesses mortals with great power, and those mortals go on to live great lives and to do great things. So far, the Box appears to have granted its power to whoever opens it. However...

Harvan bites his lip.

It may have found me wanting, somehow. It's possible that the Box simply decided that I wasn't worthy of its power, for whatever reason.

  • It's... possible, I suppose.

Regardless, we're here to correct the mistake I made underneath Zigursky. If this device functions as I expect it should, then we'll have possession of all of the power from Pandora's Box, sealed and contained, ready for whatever use you deem fit.

All you need to do is bring the Antikythera close enough to the device to establish a connection.

Do be ready for a scuffle, though, Character. As the energy from Pandora's Box is drawn here, I expect the creatures that attacked us earlier will be arriving as well.

  • I can handle them, Harvan. Let's get started.
Charging the Amplifier

Ambush! At this point, you are ambushed by several successive waves of Pandora's Might.

First Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 17%. ALL SYSTEMS NOMINAL.

Second Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 31%. CONTAINMENT FIELD IS STABLE.

Third Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 54%. WARNING: MINOR STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY DAMAGE DETECTED.

Fourth Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 78%. WARNING: ENERGY CONTAINMENT FIELD APPROACHING MAXIMUM CAPACITY.

Fifth Ambush:

ENERGY ABSORPTION RATIO AT 100%. MAXIMUM CAPACITY REACHED.
The Price for Fire Harvan's Lab.jpg
CONTAINMENT FIELD STABILIZED. STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AT 83%.

James Harvan: We did it...
James Harvan: The energy from Pandora's Box...
James Harvan: Character! It's done!
James Harvan: Pandora's Box is finally-

EXTERNAL ENERGY DUMP INITIATED. TRANSFERRING...

James Harvan: ...What?
James Harvan: Energy transfer? But I didn't...

The Price for Fire Harvan Attacked.jpg

James Harvan: Augh!

James Harvan's attacker is defeated:

The Price for Fire Harvan Down.jpg

James Harvan: Oh dear...
James Harvan: I appear to b- *bzzt* -eee a little worse for wear.
James Harvan: Character... *whirr* *klick* if you would be so kind as to-to- *klick* -to-to-to-to-to-to-to-to...

Excellent. Simply excellent.
You have outperformed my wildest expectations, Doctor Harvan. Truly, a remarkable performance.
The Price for Fire Nemesis Enters.jpg

Nemesis: I daresay, he's the most convincing one yet. Wouldn't you agree, Character?

The Price for Fire Nemesis.jpg

Nemesis: But enough of my self-congratulations. I'm sure you wish to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Nemesis: Without you, Character, none of this would have been possible. You have my thanks.

Confront James Harven

Unnecessary Contact

Doctor Harvan has much to answer for, and that's not something that can be done remotely. You'll need to go speak with him directly.

Mission Objective(s)

  • Confront James Harvan

Briefing

Harvan meets your gaze with as much dignity as he can muster. A long, dark gash leads from his shoulder down to his chest. From inside, you can hear faint whirring sounds, like that of a small engine.

Character. I... I don't quite know what to say...

  • I have no reason to speak with a mindless machine.
Harvan sputters in protestation.
Mindless machine... but I-
A look of profound resignation crosses Harvan's face, and he averts his gaze.
No, no. That... I suppose that is fair. Goodbye, Character.
  • Leave
  • Well-played, Harvan. You had me fooled.
Harvan takes on an expression of profound resignation.
You and me both, I'm afraid. At my core, I still believe that I am Professor James Harvan, PhD. Memories of my work, of my father...
Harvan's brows furrow.
Funny... until now it never really occurred to me that I cannot picture my father's face. I suppose that realization would have been alarming, an hour ago. Now, though, it simply fits. My life, my every experience... it's all a sham, Character.
  • So, what are you planning to do now?
Harvan chuckles softly. As he does, a soft rattle comes from the opening in his chest.
What indeed, Character. My every memory and experience have been exposed as a fraud... hah! Even worse than that.
I know who Nemesis is, Character. I know his reputation. Plans within plans within plans.
So, who's to say that my next action isn't simply another part of his grand scheme? What if this very conversation is part of some grand Nemesis Plot?
Harvan shakes his head, smiling.
I have no idea what I'm going to do, Character. I... I need some time to think, before I can make that decision.
  • Alright then. Goodbye, Harvan.
  • So, you're one of Nemesis's toys after all.
Harvan barks out a short laugh.
Ha! Quite. A toy! Hahahaha!
Harvan's tone devolves into desperation.
I can't properly express my situation to you, Character. I have no memory of anything related to Nemesis, or his plans, or anything related to him. Until a few minutes ago, I fully believed that I was carrying out my life's work, my legacy. But... none of that really exists, does it? I can't actually have ambitions, can I? It's not possible! It's all just an elaborate hoax, built to deceive! I've got everyone fooled, oh yes I do! Haha!
You can't understand, Character. To realize that every facet of your being, not just your actions but your very thoughts, all of it simply a tool for another man to use...
It is a mountainous revelation, Character. It crushes me to think on it. And yet, I can do nothing else.
  • This is where we part ways, Harvan.

See Also

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