Peter Stemitz

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

Notable NPCs

Librarian (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Librarian

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

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

Notable NPCs

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

The Talon of Flame

Naomi Hutchins

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

Notable NPCs

Akarist (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Akarist

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

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

Notable NPCs

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

Circle Patrol

Thorn Keeper

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

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

Notable NPCs

Akarist (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Akarist dialogue

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

Notable NPCs

Librarian (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Circle Patrol

Librarian

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Notable NPCs

Archon Eric Manetti (Council Vortex Cor Leonis Archon)

Council Soldiers dialogue

Archon Eric Manetti dialogue

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

Notable NPCs

Magician x21 (NPC Hostage)

Magicians dialogue

Magician dialogue

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 Patrols

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

Notable NPCs

Mark II Zenith Warcry (Council MK II Zenith Warcry)

Patrolling Council Soldiers dialogue

Mark II Zenith Warcry

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

Notable NPCs

Warren Paterson, Esq (NPC Hostage)

Warren Patterson dialogue

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

Notable NPCs

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

Wyatt Sisters dialogue

Jan Wyatt dialogue

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

Notable NPCs

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

Hostages dialogue

Mr. Jim Wyatt dialogue

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

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

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

Notable NPCs

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

Fleeing Council Soldiers dialogue

Prototype B-15 dialogue

Former Base Commander dialogue

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

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

Crey

Notable NPCs

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

Crey Agents dialogue

Negotiators dialogue

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

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

Notable NPCs

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

Circle Patrol

Hostages

Shelly

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

Notable NPCs

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

Hostages

Robby's dad

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

Notable NPCs

Arales (Agony Mage) (Boss)

Circle Sentries

Arales dialogue

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

Notable NPCs

None

Patrol dialogue

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 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

Security Chief (Brickstown)

Notable NPCs

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

Council dialogue

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

Hostage dialogue

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

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