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==Overview==
==Overview==
{{TOCright}} 


==Villain types==
== Background ==
The Knives of Artemis  official info ( Copied from the City of Heroes official website [http://web.archive.org/web/20121025114519/http://na.cityofheroes.com/en/game_info/know_your_adversary/knives_of_artemis.php]):
[[File:Knives_of_ Artemis_logo.png|left|200px|thumb| |<div style="text-align: center;border:none">Detail in the Knives' uniform. The group's logo?</div>]]
Like a diamond-bladed sword, the Knives of Artemis are incomparably beautiful and deadly. Bewitching tales of the Knives of Artemis are told by military pundits and war journalists in awed tones around the world. Heroes speak of them with equal parts enthrallment and dread, because they are renowned for their charms as much as for their mercilessness.


===Minions===
The Knives of Artemis is an all-female mercenary group, and has a reputation as one of the deadliest paramilitary groups in the world. The Knives are often seen as an extension of the [[Malta Group]], and are enlisted for high-level security functions, or to engage in surgical strike operations. They are also rumored to act as elite assassins.


====Mercenary====
Although they most often work as the hardcore assassin wing of the Malta Group, they are an independent organization.  The Knives of Artemis – often called “Knives” by outsiders, or “Sisters” by those within the sorority – are all highly trained operatives. They are masters of stealth and reconnaissance, and trained to be experts with both firearms and melee weapons, however their signature weapons are the wrist-crossbow, caltrops, and their eponymous knives. The ceremonial knives of Artemis that each carries are large, serrated blades that are truly more like a functional sword than a simple ornate symbol – as deadly as the women that carry them.
[[Image:KnivesofArtemisMinion01.jpg|right|thumb|100px|Knives of Artemis]]
 
Each woman recruited into the sisterhood is given rigorous training that lasts years. Their fearsome natural skills are enhanced with advanced military technology, such as cloaking devices and powerful night-vision goggles. Some reports suggest veteran Knives may be augmented through high-tech and illegal technologies, but these are unconfirmed by the [[FBSA]]. Their arsenal is extensive, and in addition to their standard knives, crossbows, and caltrops, may include: sleep, or poisoned darts; shuriken; and web grenades.
 
Their officers sometimes carry darts filled with a paralyzing nerve agent, and exploding shuriken.
 
When the Knives of Artemis were first encountered, it was suspected that they were a small group of only 70, or perhaps 100 individuals. Obviously their ranks have expanded since the [[Rikti War]] as more broken or disillusioned women were adopted into their ranks and hardened. Recruits are selected based on their raw intelligence and inner willpower. While it is always favorable to recruit a girl with fluency in several languages or expert computer hacking skills, much of those abilities can be taught if the raw resources are there. Occasionally a girl will be hand-picked for a particularly desirable trait, although it is extremely rare for a Knife not to be an excellent physical combatant.
 
Training begins with standard tests of push-ups, sit-ups, a one-mile swim and a three mile sprint. Trainees are then pushed to complete a 3 mile swim, and an 18-mile all-terrain land navigation course, while carrying 35 lbs. of gear (known as “the chariot race,” because it’s like being ridden over by a chariot). Once completed, the distance is increased until recruits can complete a 5 mile swim, and a 50 mile forced march over hellish terrain with 45 lbs. of gear. The Hands of Artemis review these tests as well as the results of a battery of psychological exams and decide on each individual. If accepted into the sisterhood of the Knives there is no going back. And the real training begins.
 
There are three known ranks to the Knives – the core group of sisters; the lieutenants or Blades of Artemis; and the officers, also known as the Hands of Artemis. Their true numbers remain a closely-guarded secret, as does much of their inner workings. It is said that promotion through the ranks comes not just with field performance but also involves secret combat rituals. Whether or not this is true, the story that a Sister who is involved in a challenge either moves up … or perishes … makes for a great war story.
 
== Villain types ==
 
 
=== Minions ===
 
 
==== Mercenary ====
[[File:KnivesofArtemisMinion2.jpg|right|thumb|100px|Knives of Artemis]]
The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.
The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.


''Powers''
''Powers''


{{Power|[[Image:MentalControl Hypnotize.png|22px]]| Sleep Dart| (Ranged, Lethal) Foe Sleep| You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart.}}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Hack.png|22px]]| Hack| Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
 
{{Power|[[File:Katana Slash.png|22px]]| Slash| Melee, Lethal, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
 
{{Power|[[File:Katana Slice.png|22px]]| Slice| Melee (Cone), Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
 
{{Power|[[File:AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png|22px]]| Shuriken| Ranged, Moderate Lethal Damage| Small throwing weapon. }}
 
{{Power|[[File:Gadgets Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Close (Location Area of Effect), Minor Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Speed, -Jump| You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on. }}
 
{{Power|[[File:MentalControl Hypnotize.png|22px]]| Sleep Dart| Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Sleep| You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart. }}
 
{{Power|[[File:SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Toggle, Self Stealth, {{PosDefVal|24|24}}| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. }}
 
=== Lieutenants ===
 
 
==== Blade of Artemis ====
[[File:BladeofArtemis2.jpg|100px|thumb| |<div style="text-align: center;border:none">Blade of Artemis</div>]]
 
The intensive training that the Knives of Artemis go through does not completely explain their deadliness. Promotion in their ranks is through rites of combat known only to their inner circles. It is said, however that if you challenge you either move up or you perish.
 
''Powers''


{{Power|[[Image:AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png|22px]]| Shuriken| Ranged, Lethal, Low Damage| Small throwing weapon. }}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Hack.png|22px]]| Hack| Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Hack.png|22px]]| Hack| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Slash.png|22px]]| Slash| Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Slash.png|22px]]| Slash| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Slice.png|22px]]| Slice| Melee (Cone), Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Slice.png|22px]]| Slice| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.}}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Disembowel.png|22px]]| Disembowel| Melee, Superior Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense, Knockup| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Gadgets Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Melee, Located Area of Effect, Minor Damage over Time Lethal, Foe -Speed| You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on. }}
{{Power|[[File:AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png|22px]]| Shuriken| Ranged, Moderate Lethal Damage| Small throwing weapon. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Ninjitsu Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Foe -Speed, Low Lethal| All foes that walk through the Caltrops will be Slowed. }}
{{Power|[[File:MentalControl Hypnotize.png|22px]]| Sleep Dart| Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Sleep| You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Leadership Tactics.png|22px]]| ???| +Perception| Knives of Artemis can see through Stealth}}
{{Power|[[File:Quills Lunge.png|22px]]| Poison Dart| Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Moderate Damage over Time(Toxic), Foe -Regeneration| You have been hit by a Poison Dart. You cannot regenerate your wounds while you take damage from this poison. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Gadgets Cloak.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Self Stealth, +Defense| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. Recharge: Slow .}}
{{Power|[[File:Gadgets WebGrenade.png|22px]]| Web Grenade| Ranged, Foe Immobilize, -Fly, -Recharge, -Jump, -Speed| The Malta Tactical Ops soldier has snared you in his web grenade. You cannot move or fly and your attack speed is reduced. }}


===Lieutenants===
{{Power|[[File:Gadgets Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Close (Location Area of Effect), Minor Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Speed, -Jump| You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on. }}


{{Power|[[File:SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Toggle, Self Stealth, {{PosDefVal|30|30}}| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. }}


====Blade of Artemis====
=== Bosses ===
[[Image:BladeofArtemis1.jpg|100px|thumb| |<div style="text-align: center;border:none">Blade of Artemis</div>]]


The intensive training that the Knives of Artemis go through does not completely explain their deadliness. Promotion in their ranks is through rites of combat known only to their inner circles. It is said, however that if you challenge you either move up or you perish.


''Powers''
==== Hand of Artemis ====
[[File:HandofArtemis2.jpg|100px|thumb| |<div style="text-align: center;border:none">One of the elusive Hands of Artemis</div>]]


{{Power|[[Image:MentalControl Hypnotize.png|22px]]| Sleep Dart| (Ranged, Lethal) Foe Sleep| You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart.}}
The highest ranks in the Knives of Artemis are small in number. In addition to being deadly combatants, they must to adhere to and foster a strict code of honor. Some consider honor among mercenaries hypocrisy of the highest order, they just don't say so in front of any Knives.


{{Power|[[Image:Quills Lunge.png|22px]]| Poison Dart| (Ranged, Lethal) Poison: Damage over Time (Toxic), Foe -Regeneration| You have been hit by a Poison Dart. You cannot regenerate your wounds while you take damage from this poison. }}
''Powers''


{{Power|[[Image:AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png|22px]]| Shuriken| Ranged, Lethal, Low Damage| Small throwing weapon. }}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Hack.png|22px]]| Hack| Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Gadgets WebGrenade.png|22px]]| Web Grenade| (Ranged) Foe Immobilize, -Fly, -Recharge| The Malta Tactical Ops soldier has snared you in his web grenade. You cannot move or fly and your attack speed is reduced.}}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Slash.png|22px]]| Slash| Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Hack.png|22px]]| Hack| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
{{Power|[[File:Katana Slice.png|22px]]| Slice| Melee (Cone), Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Slash.png|22px]]| Slash| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
{{Power|[[File:Katana WhirlingSword.png|22px]]| Whirling Sword| Point Blank Area of Effect, Moderate Lethal Damage, Minor Damage over Time(Lethal)| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Slice.png|22px]]| Slice| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.}}
{{Power|[[File:Katana HeadSplitter.png|22px]]| Head Splitter| Melee, Extreme Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense, Knockback, Chance for Critical Hit| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Disembowel.png|22px]]| Disembowel| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.}}
{{Power|[[File:AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png|22px]]| Shuriken| Ranged, Moderate Lethal Damage| Small throwing weapon. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Gadgets Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Melee, Located Area of Effect, Minor Damage over Time, Lethal, Foe -Speed| You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on. }}
{{Power|[[File:AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png|22px]]| Exploding Shuriken| Ranged (Targeted Area of Effect), Moderate Lethal Damage| This small throwing star is rigged to explode on impact. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Ninjitsu Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Foe -Speed, Low Lethal| All foes that walk through the Caltrops will be Slowed. }}
{{Power|[[File:MentalControl Hypnotize.png|22px]]| Sleep Dart| Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Sleep| You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Leadership Tactics.png|22px]]| ???| +Perception| Knives of Artemis can see through Stealth}}
{{Power|[[File:MentalControl Command.png|22px]]| Paralytic Dart| Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Hold| You have been hit with a Paralytic Dart. You cannot move. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Gadgets Cloak.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Self, Stealth, +Defense| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. Recharge: Slow .}}
{{Power|[[File:Temporary ChromaticGrenades.png|22px]]| Stun Grenades| Ranged (Targeted Area of Effect), Minor Energy Damage, Foe Disorient| The Malta Tactical Ops soldier has Disoriented you with his Stun Grenade. }}


===Bosses===
{{Power|[[File:Gadgets Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Close (Location Area of Effect), Minor Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Speed, -Jump| You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on. }}


{{Power|[[File:SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Toggle, Self Stealth, {{PosDefVal|30|30}}| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. }}


====Hand of Artemis====
=== Named enemies ===
[[Image:HandofArtemis1.jpg|100px|thumb| |<div style="text-align: center;border:none">One of the elusive Hands of Artemis</div>]]


The highest ranks in the Knives of Artemis are small in number. In addition to being deadly combatants, they must to adhere to and foster a strict code of honor. Some consider honor among mercenaries hipocrisy of the highest order, they just don't say so in front of any Knives.
==== Mercenary Quantum (Minion) ====
{{MIA}}
The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.


''Powers''
''Powers''


{{Power|[[Image:MentalControl Command.png|22px]]| Paralytic Dart| (Ranged) Foe Hold| You have been hit with a Paralytic Dart. You cannot move!}}
{{Power|[[File:AssaultWeapons ShotgunBuckShot.png|22px]]| Quantum Array Gun| (Ranged, Negative) Foe -Recharge, -Speed| Your attack and Movement rate have been slowed by the Quantum Array Gun.}}


* '''Exploding Shuriken'''
{{Power|[[File:SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Toggle, Self Stealth, +Defense| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. }}


{{Power|[[Image:AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png|22px]]| Shuriken| Ranged, Lethal, Low Damage| Small throwing weapon. }}
==== Blade of Artemis Quantum (Lieutenant) ====
[[File:Blade of Artemis Quantum.png|100px|thumb| |<div style="text-align: center;border:none">Blade of Artemis Quantum</div>]]
The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.


{{Power|[[Image:Temporary ChromaticGrenades.png|22px]]| Stun Grenades| (Ranged, Targeted Area of Effect) Foe Disorient| The Malta Tactical Ops soldier has Disoriented you with his Stun Grenade. }}
''Powers''


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Slash.png|22px]]| Slash| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade. }}
{{Power|[[File:AssaultWeapons ShotgunBuckShot.png|22px]]| Quantum Array Gun| (Ranged, Negative) Foe -Recharge, -Speed| Your attack and Movement rate have been slowed by the Quantum Array Gun.}}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana Slice.png|22px]]| Slice| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.}}
{{Power|[[File:SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Toggle, Self Stealth, +Defense| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. }}


{{Power|[[Image:Katana HeadSplitter.png|22px]]| Head Splitter| (Melee, Lethal) Foe -Defense| The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.}}
==== Hand of Artemis Quantum (Boss) ====


{{Power|[[Image:Gadgets Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Melee, Located Area of Effect, Minor Damage over Time, Lethal, Foe -Speed| You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on. }}
The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.


{{Power|[[Image:Ninjitsu Caltrops.png|22px]]| Caltrops| Foe -Speed, Low Lethal| All foes that walk through the Caltrops will be Slowed. }}
''Powers''


{{Power|[[Image:Leadership Tactics.png|22px]]| ???| +Perception| Knives of Artemis can see through Stealth}}
{{Power|[[File:AssaultWeapons ShotgunBuckShot.png|22px]]| Quantum Array Gun| (Ranged, Negative) Foe -Recharge, -Speed| Your attack and Movement rate have been slowed by the Quantum Array Gun.}}


{{Power|[[Image:Gadgets Cloak.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Self Stealth, +Defense| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. Recharge: Slow .}}
{{Power|[[File:SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png|22px]]| Cloaking Device| Toggle, Self Stealth, +Defense| The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty. }}


===Named enemies===
=== Named Bosses ===


* Belfry Green 3-2-3 (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Belfry Green 3-2-3 (''Hand of Artemis'')
Line 104: Line 152:
* Sister Helena (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Helena (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Lethe (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Lethe (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Livia (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Mercy (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Mercy (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Sestra (''Hand of Artemis'')
* Sister Sestra (''Hand of Artemis'')


== Notes ==
* [[Indigo]] and [[Shadow Spider]] are former Knives of Artemis. This can be seen in their individual backgrounds/storyarcs and powerlists.
* Knives of Artemis are usually found within missions only, or in the [[Rikti War Zone]], or [[Grandville]].


[[Category:Enemies]]
[[Category:Enemies]]
[[Category:Malta Lore]]

Latest revision as of 01:07, 23 July 2024

Overview

Background

The Knives of Artemis official info ( Copied from the City of Heroes official website [1]):

Detail in the Knives' uniform. The group's logo?

Like a diamond-bladed sword, the Knives of Artemis are incomparably beautiful and deadly. Bewitching tales of the Knives of Artemis are told by military pundits and war journalists in awed tones around the world. Heroes speak of them with equal parts enthrallment and dread, because they are renowned for their charms as much as for their mercilessness.

The Knives of Artemis is an all-female mercenary group, and has a reputation as one of the deadliest paramilitary groups in the world. The Knives are often seen as an extension of the Malta Group, and are enlisted for high-level security functions, or to engage in surgical strike operations. They are also rumored to act as elite assassins.

Although they most often work as the hardcore assassin wing of the Malta Group, they are an independent organization. The Knives of Artemis – often called “Knives” by outsiders, or “Sisters” by those within the sorority – are all highly trained operatives. They are masters of stealth and reconnaissance, and trained to be experts with both firearms and melee weapons, however their signature weapons are the wrist-crossbow, caltrops, and their eponymous knives. The ceremonial knives of Artemis that each carries are large, serrated blades that are truly more like a functional sword than a simple ornate symbol – as deadly as the women that carry them.

Each woman recruited into the sisterhood is given rigorous training that lasts years. Their fearsome natural skills are enhanced with advanced military technology, such as cloaking devices and powerful night-vision goggles. Some reports suggest veteran Knives may be augmented through high-tech and illegal technologies, but these are unconfirmed by the FBSA. Their arsenal is extensive, and in addition to their standard knives, crossbows, and caltrops, may include: sleep, or poisoned darts; shuriken; and web grenades.

Their officers sometimes carry darts filled with a paralyzing nerve agent, and exploding shuriken.

When the Knives of Artemis were first encountered, it was suspected that they were a small group of only 70, or perhaps 100 individuals. Obviously their ranks have expanded since the Rikti War as more broken or disillusioned women were adopted into their ranks and hardened. Recruits are selected based on their raw intelligence and inner willpower. While it is always favorable to recruit a girl with fluency in several languages or expert computer hacking skills, much of those abilities can be taught if the raw resources are there. Occasionally a girl will be hand-picked for a particularly desirable trait, although it is extremely rare for a Knife not to be an excellent physical combatant.

Training begins with standard tests of push-ups, sit-ups, a one-mile swim and a three mile sprint. Trainees are then pushed to complete a 3 mile swim, and an 18-mile all-terrain land navigation course, while carrying 35 lbs. of gear (known as “the chariot race,” because it’s like being ridden over by a chariot). Once completed, the distance is increased until recruits can complete a 5 mile swim, and a 50 mile forced march over hellish terrain with 45 lbs. of gear. The Hands of Artemis review these tests as well as the results of a battery of psychological exams and decide on each individual. If accepted into the sisterhood of the Knives there is no going back. And the real training begins.

There are three known ranks to the Knives – the core group of sisters; the lieutenants or Blades of Artemis; and the officers, also known as the Hands of Artemis. Their true numbers remain a closely-guarded secret, as does much of their inner workings. It is said that promotion through the ranks comes not just with field performance but also involves secret combat rituals. Whether or not this is true, the story that a Sister who is involved in a challenge either moves up … or perishes … makes for a great war story.

Villain types

Minions

Mercenary

Knives of Artemis

The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.

Powers

Katana Hack.png Hack Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana Slash.png Slash Melee, Lethal, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana Slice.png Slice Melee (Cone), Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png Shuriken Ranged, Moderate Lethal Damage
Small throwing weapon.

Gadgets Caltrops.png Caltrops Close (Location Area of Effect), Minor Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Speed, -Jump
You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on.

MentalControl Hypnotize.png Sleep Dart Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Sleep
You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart.

SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png Cloaking Device Toggle, Self Stealth, Def( M24 R24 )
The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty.

Lieutenants

Blade of Artemis

Blade of Artemis

The intensive training that the Knives of Artemis go through does not completely explain their deadliness. Promotion in their ranks is through rites of combat known only to their inner circles. It is said, however that if you challenge you either move up or you perish.

Powers

Katana Hack.png Hack Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana Slash.png Slash Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana Slice.png Slice Melee (Cone), Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana Disembowel.png Disembowel Melee, Superior Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense, Knockup
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png Shuriken Ranged, Moderate Lethal Damage
Small throwing weapon.

MentalControl Hypnotize.png Sleep Dart Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Sleep
You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart.

Quills Lunge.png Poison Dart Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Moderate Damage over Time(Toxic), Foe -Regeneration
You have been hit by a Poison Dart. You cannot regenerate your wounds while you take damage from this poison.

Gadgets WebGrenade.png Web Grenade Ranged, Foe Immobilize, -Fly, -Recharge, -Jump, -Speed
The Malta Tactical Ops soldier has snared you in his web grenade. You cannot move or fly and your attack speed is reduced.

Gadgets Caltrops.png Caltrops Close (Location Area of Effect), Minor Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Speed, -Jump
You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on.

SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png Cloaking Device Toggle, Self Stealth, Def( M30 R30 )
The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty.

Bosses

Hand of Artemis

One of the elusive Hands of Artemis

The highest ranks in the Knives of Artemis are small in number. In addition to being deadly combatants, they must to adhere to and foster a strict code of honor. Some consider honor among mercenaries hypocrisy of the highest order, they just don't say so in front of any Knives.

Powers

Katana Hack.png Hack Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana Slash.png Slash Melee, Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana Slice.png Slice Melee (Cone), Moderate Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana WhirlingSword.png Whirling Sword Point Blank Area of Effect, Moderate Lethal Damage, Minor Damage over Time(Lethal)
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

Katana HeadSplitter.png Head Splitter Melee, Extreme Lethal Damage, Foe -Defense, Knockback, Chance for Critical Hit
The Knives of Artemis Mercenary has lowered your Defense with her blade.

AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png Shuriken Ranged, Moderate Lethal Damage
Small throwing weapon.

AssaultWeapons ARBurst.png Exploding Shuriken Ranged (Targeted Area of Effect), Moderate Lethal Damage
This small throwing star is rigged to explode on impact.

MentalControl Hypnotize.png Sleep Dart Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Sleep
You have been knocked out with a Sleep Dart.

MentalControl Command.png Paralytic Dart Ranged, Minor Lethal Damage, Foe Hold
You have been hit with a Paralytic Dart. You cannot move.

Temporary ChromaticGrenades.png Stun Grenades Ranged (Targeted Area of Effect), Minor Energy Damage, Foe Disorient
The Malta Tactical Ops soldier has Disoriented you with his Stun Grenade.

Gadgets Caltrops.png Caltrops Close (Location Area of Effect), Minor Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Speed, -Jump
You are Slowed and are taking minor Lethal Damage over Time from the Caltrops you are standing on.

SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png Cloaking Device Toggle, Self Stealth, Def( M30 R30 )
The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty.

Named enemies

Mercenary Quantum (Minion)

Picture MIA

The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.

Powers

AssaultWeapons ShotgunBuckShot.png Quantum Array Gun (Ranged, Negative) Foe -Recharge, -Speed
Your attack and Movement rate have been slowed by the Quantum Array Gun.

SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png Cloaking Device Toggle, Self Stealth, +Defense
The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty.

Blade of Artemis Quantum (Lieutenant)

Blade of Artemis Quantum

The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.

Powers

AssaultWeapons ShotgunBuckShot.png Quantum Array Gun (Ranged, Negative) Foe -Recharge, -Speed
Your attack and Movement rate have been slowed by the Quantum Array Gun.

SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png Cloaking Device Toggle, Self Stealth, +Defense
The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty.

Hand of Artemis Quantum (Boss)

The Knives of Artemis are one of the deadliest groups of mercenary combatants in the world. It is rumored that they number no more than 100, but no one is certain. Masters of stealth and reconnaissance, they are highly skilled with all weapons, but the crossbow is their signature.

Powers

AssaultWeapons ShotgunBuckShot.png Quantum Array Gun (Ranged, Negative) Foe -Recharge, -Speed
Your attack and Movement rate have been slowed by the Quantum Array Gun.

SuperReflexes FocusedFighting.png Cloaking Device Toggle, Self Stealth, +Defense
The Cloaking Device allows you to use an LCD body coating become partially invisible. While Cloaked you can only be seen at very close range. If you attack while Cloaked, you will be discovered. Even if discovered, you are hard to see and have a bonus to Defense. Unlike some stealth powers, the Cloaking Device has no movement penalty.

Named Bosses

  • Belfry Green 3-2-3 (Hand of Artemis)
  • Belfry Green 4-6-4 (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Asheena (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Circe (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Hecate (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Helena (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Lethe (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Livia (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Mercy (Hand of Artemis)
  • Sister Sestra (Hand of Artemis)

Notes

  • Indigo and Shadow Spider are former Knives of Artemis. This can be seen in their individual backgrounds/storyarcs and powerlists.
  • Knives of Artemis are usually found within missions only, or in the Rikti War Zone, or Grandville.