Difference between revisions of "Lieutenant Harriman"
Blondeshell (Talk | contribs) m |
Blondeshell (Talk | contribs) m (→Introductions) |
||
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown) | |||
Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
− | |||
== Overview == | == Overview == | ||
{{Infobox Contact | {{Infobox Contact | ||
Line 40: | Line 39: | ||
Lieutenant Harriman's place in the Sky Raider hierarchy has been shaky at best. When Colonel Duray was captured after the assault of Skyway City, the Sky Raiders were left without a leader and with no clear guidelines for succession. Captain Castillo managed to rally the majority of the Raiders to his command, bolstered by his prior repute and his insistence that he was in command only 'until the Colonel returns.' Lieutenant Harriman, being Castillo's right hand man, was instantly lifted to a place in the Raiders' pecking order that far exceeded his actual rank. He intends to prove that he is capable and qualified for this new level of command, for the sake of his men and his peers - but most of all, for the sake of his captain. | Lieutenant Harriman's place in the Sky Raider hierarchy has been shaky at best. When Colonel Duray was captured after the assault of Skyway City, the Sky Raiders were left without a leader and with no clear guidelines for succession. Captain Castillo managed to rally the majority of the Raiders to his command, bolstered by his prior repute and his insistence that he was in command only 'until the Colonel returns.' Lieutenant Harriman, being Castillo's right hand man, was instantly lifted to a place in the Raiders' pecking order that far exceeded his actual rank. He intends to prove that he is capable and qualified for this new level of command, for the sake of his men and his peers - but most of all, for the sake of his captain. | ||
+ | |||
+ | === Content Not Purchased === | ||
+ | {{darkorange|You will need to have purchased the second episode of the second signature story arc, [[Pandora's Box]], or be a [[VIP Player|VIP subscriber]] before you can play Lieutenant Harriman's storyarc. }} | ||
=== Prior to Introduction === | === Prior to Introduction === | ||
− | {{ | + | {{Missing Prior}} |
=== Initial Contact === | === Initial Contact === | ||
Line 50: | Line 52: | ||
* The sooner this assignment ends, the better. | * The sooner this assignment ends, the better. | ||
− | === | + | === Too Busy === |
− | {{ | + | {{Missing Too Busy}} |
== Story Arc == | == Story Arc == |
Latest revision as of 03:50, 1 October 2014
Overview
Lieutenant Harriman | |
---|---|
Sky Raider Squad Leader | |
Zone | Nerva Archipelago |
Coordinates | (2041, 178, 6972) |
Level Range | 35-50 |
Merits | 5 |
Introduced By | None |
Introduces | None |
Enemy Groups |
Arachnos |
Requires Pandora's Box, Episode 2.
Lieutenant Harriman is a villain contact in the Crimson Cove neighborhood of Nerva Archipelago at coordinates (2041, 178, 6972). His level range is 35-50. He is located on the top of a building 168 yards east of the Natural Store. Lt. Harriman is the second contact in the villain-side Pandora's Box Signature Story Arc available on the Paragon Market or free with subscription.
Contents
Merit Rewards: This activity awards 5 Reward Merits. |
Introductions
Contact Introduced By
None; Lieutenant Harriman is available through the Signature Story Arc Contact option.
Contact Introduces
None.
Description
Sky Raider Squad Leader
Lieutenant Harriman's place in the Sky Raider hierarchy has been shaky at best. When Colonel Duray was captured after the assault of Skyway City, the Sky Raiders were left without a leader and with no clear guidelines for succession. Captain Castillo managed to rally the majority of the Raiders to his command, bolstered by his prior repute and his insistence that he was in command only 'until the Colonel returns.' Lieutenant Harriman, being Castillo's right hand man, was instantly lifted to a place in the Raiders' pecking order that far exceeded his actual rank. He intends to prove that he is capable and qualified for this new level of command, for the sake of his men and his peers - but most of all, for the sake of his captain.
Content Not Purchased
You will need to have purchased the second episode of the second signature story arc, Pandora's Box, or be a VIP subscriber before you can play Lieutenant Harriman's storyarc.
Prior to Introduction
Missing Prior to Introduction Dialogue
Initial Contact
None
Greeting
- The sooner this assignment ends, the better.
Too Busy
Missing Too Busy Dialogue
Story Arc
Experts in the Field
Merit Rewards: This activity awards 5 Reward Merits. |
Souvenir
Part One: No Matter When You Look
Briefing
Lieutenant Harriman snaps out an angry salute at you before speaking.
Character. My captain has informed me that you have purchased our services for the time being, and I've been ordered to work with you on tracking down the artifact called Pandora's Box.
Harriman spits on the ground.
Frankly, I think it's a load of crap, but when the captain says 'Jump-bots,' I say 'how many?' So I guess despite the fact that you assaulted my squad and stole our flagship, I have to play nice with you. Problem is, I wouldn't know the first thing about ancient artifacts or any of that magical mystical mumbo-jumbo. I specialize in more modern hardware, understand? Still, I think I might have a lead.
- Agree to form a strike force
The men I have stationed at our local outpost have been reporting... strange occurrences. We've had five security lockdowns in the past 48 hours, and each time it's been some Private reporting an old man skulking around the facility. Problem is, every time they chase the guy down, he disappears. I was about ready to start stringing people up by their toes until I spoke with your secretary on the Mitscher. She's been getting the same reports.
I don't know who this guy is, or what his deal is, but he's keen on our operations and we can't seem to pin him in one place. I figure if you want to give it a shot, maybe put him to the question if you catch him, you might get something valuable.
Unnecessary Solicitation
Having trouble catching him, huh? Don't sweat it, my boys have Porters and they still couldn't keep him in one place.
Mission Objective(s)
You're in luck. This warehouse appears to have just entered a security lockdown. Your quarry must be nearby.
- Investigate the Intrusion
- Locate the intruder
- Pursue Professor Echo!
- Speak with Professor Echo
You've chased off Professor Echo, and gained some new direction in your search for Pandora's Box.
Allies
Enemies
Shivans
Unknown
Notable NPCs:
- Professor Echo (Unknown Boss, Enemy)
Briefing
Even after collapsing, Professor Echo is still trying to activate the device on his forearm. Judging by the harsh trills and blinking red lights flashing from it, his attempts appear to have been unsuccessful.
- Having a bit of trouble this time?
- Professor Echo glances nervously at you. He tries in vain to get the device to respond. After a few moments of frustration, he sighs and lowers his head.
- I... yes, it would appear so. Your combat abilities are... more potent than my data implied. I suppose that's what I get for trusting the historians.
- Historians... right. And your purpose here was...?
- I'm here for the same thing you are. I'm looking for clues on Pandora's Box. I tried following your example, but I simply don't have the tech to make a jump that far. Honestly, I can't figure out how you did it.
- I did, however, have records of your last known location before you time-jumped to Achaea, so I figured I would drop in on your operation and learn how you did it. And I must say, you have done a very good job of masking your chronometric distortions. I haven't been able to detect them at all!
- Alchea? Time-jump? I have no idea what you're talking about.
- This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- (Step on Echo's forearm. Hard.)
- Ow ow ow OW OW! Alright, fine! You've made your point! I think I fried the blasted thing anyway.
- Professor Echo looks up at you with a pathetic expression on his face.
- You've got me. I'm not going anywhere. So... now what?
- Now you tell me what you were trying to do here.
- I'm here for the same thing you are. I'm looking for clues on Pandora's Box. I tried following your example, but I simply don't have the tech to make a jump that far. Honestly, I can't figure out how you did it.
- I did, however, have records of your last known location before you time-jumped to Achaea, so I figured I would drop in on your operation and learn how you did it. And I must say, you have done a very good job of masking your chronometric distortions. I haven't been able to detect them at all!
- Achea? Time-jump? I have no idea what you're talking about.
- Professor Echo frowns at you.
- There's no need to pretend for my sake, my boy / dear. Everything you do today is already ancient history to me.
- You're planning on jumping to the first moment that Pandora's Box ever appeared in history. A laudable goal, but as I've stated before, I have no idea how you would accomplish such a feat. The best I've ever managed is a few short decades.
- Now, I'm sure you're keeping this all hush-hush to avoid competition, but I really do think that-
- Professor Echo trails off as he sees the blank stare in your eyes.
- You... you really don't know what I'm talking about, do you? You don't have a chronoporter, and this facility has nothing to do with time travel, does it? Has historical time travel as an investigative tool even crossed your mind?
- No... well, not until now I suppose.
- Professor Echo shakes his head in dismay.
- Ah. I see. It seems causality is determined to make me the temporal fool, in this case. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that my... 'contribution' to this cause has been overlooked by history.
- Very well, Character. While I would love to stay and wallow in the cosmic injustice that this project has visited upon me, I believe it is time for me to depart.
- Before you can react, Professor Echo pulls away from you and activates the device on his forearm. The light blinks green and gives a short, high-pitched beep, and Professor Echo disappears. You get the feeling he doesn't plan on returning.
- Leave
Debriefing
As you explain your confrontation with Professor Echo to Harriman, his expression becomes increasingly skeptical.
Okay, hold on. Let me get this straight.
This guy... Echo, right? He tells you he's from the future - and you believe him, for some blessed reason - and he's been harassing us because he wants to know where Pandora's Box is. And he thinks you time... hop... whatevered into the past, to find out about Pandora's Box, and he thought he could pull a few of your toenails and get you to tell him.
Except you haven't time-skipped anywhere, so he got nothing from you, probably 'cause he's a kook. Except now that he's told you this, you've got the idea in your head to actually try to time-backflip to who knows when, which means he would have been right, which means...
Harriman shakes his head.
No. You know what? I'm done thinking about this. You tell me what's next, that's all I need to know. You're making my brain hurt.
Part Two: History Lessons
Briefing
Listen, man / lady. If you think you can do what that crackpot says you're gonna do, then go for it. Anything that gets you closer to Pandora's Box means I'm closer to finishing this assignment. Just... don't expect me to help you out, ok? This goes a little far outside my range of expertise, if you know what I mean.
- That's fine Harriman. Just stay put
Now that I can do. I'll hold down the fort here. Just... don't go changing history or anything, got it? I mean... that's how it works, right? You do something weird in the past, and then we all end up dinosaurs or something. I don't like the idea of my whole life getting rearranged because you stepped on some ancient butterfly or something.
Harriman makes a face, and shudders.
Whatever. Forget I said anything. I don't think I'll ever understand what you Rogue Isles types do, but if it gets results then have at it.
If time travel is the key to learning about Pandora's Box, you're pretty sure a trip to Ouroboros is in order. Perhaps you'll be able to find someone there that has knowledge of the Box's history... which as far as you know, begins in ancient Greece.
Speak with Prometheus
Unnecessary Solicitation
If you're going to travel to the past, please hurry... although, with time travel, I suppose you never really need to hurry, do you?
Mission Objective(s)
- Speak with Prometheus
Briefing
Prometheus greets you with a smug expression and a raised eyebrow.
Boldly done, Character. You have come seeking answers, but do you fully grasp the gravity of your situation? You have approached Prometheus, the very benefactor responsible for mankind's rapid ascent to power. Few denizens of your world have the hubris to interrogate a god.
Yet, you are wise to seek my counsel. I possess the knowledge you seek, for I have witnessed events that you know only through the writings of your ancestors. Ask, Character, and perhaps I shall grant you my wisdom.
- I've come seeking information on the artifact called Pandora's Box.
Prometheus grimaces at you.
I am well acquainted with the artifact you seek. Pandora's Box represents an ancient power, easily as old as your world... a power that can match even the Flames that I have granted to your kind.
The origin of the Box is known to me, though the circumstances surrounding its creation far exceed your limited grasp of reality. I doubt any explanation I provide would assist you.
- What about more recently? Pandora's Box is mentioned in human mythology...
Prometheus nods.
When I granted my Flames to mankind, I set in motion a series of events that... redirected the potency of your world. Mankind's potential is vast, and with my Flames as a focus, mortals began to harness powers that had once been beyond their reach... and this angered those who would keep that power to themselves.
Zeus sought to undo what I had wrought, but could not contain the spread of knowledge and power that my Flames had granted. So, instead, he claimed a tool that was not his to claim, and prepared a foil to my plans.
Despite the power that mankind was destined to wield, Zeus declared that he would always hold dominion over this world. He wished his power to live on, imposing his will on mankind, age after age. And so he placed his very essence within the artifact you now call Pandora's Box, to manifest itself again and again, always overshadowing the powers of mortals.
- So, you're saying... that Pandora's Box contains the power of Zeus?
It has in the past, as it does now. Zeus bound his power to the Box, and should a host perish, that is where his power will always return. You live in a time of great tribulation, Character. Wars have been fought over such power, and it has raised men to godhood. You must prepare yourself accordingly.
- Do you know where the Box is located?
Prometheus smirks at you.
That... is knowledge that I cannot share. However, there is another in this place that may be more forthcoming. You should seek the counsel of Mender Silos. He has knowledge that you would find useful in your search.
- Very well then.
Talk to Mender Silos
Unnecessary Solicitation
Well? If you're going to go travel through time, I guess you'd better do it then.
Wait... you didn't... go already, did you? Is that how this works? It was only a few moments for me... how many years have you been gone?
Briefing
Greetings, Character. There is much to be done before we are prepared for what lies beyond... but in this sanctum, time is on our side. What do you seek?
- Prometheus suggested I ask you about Pandora's Box.
At the mention of Pandora's Box, Mender Silos becomes visibly uncomfortable.
Did he, now...
I'm afraid that is not a subject I can pursue at great length, Character. Pandora's Box represents a crucial point in your timeline, and any alterations could have... undesirable effects. Much as it pains me, I cannot give you the information that you seek. You must continue the search of your own accord, lest...
Silos looks away from you, clearly distressed.
I'm sorry. I can't help you.
- There isn't any guidance you can provide?
Mender Silos frowns thoughtfully.
I cannot aid you directly, Character, but I suppose I can enable you to acquire knowledge yourself. Use a crystal within this sanctum, and seek out the time and place where Pandora's Box first appeared in human myth, in the ancient region of Achaea. If you can trace the Box's path through history, you may be able to glean its location in your own time.
Mender Silos tries to wave you away in an exasperated motion.
Please, go. I cannot speak of this any more. This moment in your timeline is extremely delicate, and I fear I may have already caused a disturbance by assisting you.
- Leave
Find Pandora's Box
Unnecessary Solicitation
Well? If you're going to go travel through time, I guess you'd better do it then.
Wait... you didn't... go already, did you? Is that how this works? It was only a few moments for me... how many years have you been gone?
Mission Objective(s)
You've arrived in an ancient temple of some sort... there must be something here that Mender Silos wanted you to see
- Find Pandora's Box
- Search the caves
- Speak with Imperious
You spoke with Imperious, but appear to be no closer to finding Pandora's Box.
Enemies
Notable NPCs
- Imperious (Cimerorans Hero, Enemy)
Briefing
Imperious's breathing has become ragged from exertion.
You... fight admirably, warrior... though your style and methods are alien to me. Even with my newfound strength, you appear to be my match in combat.
I may have attacked you prematurely. Though your presence here is... suspicious, I do not believe that your appearance is the handiwork of the traitor Romulus.
Yet, the question remains... what is your purpose here?
- I came seeking the location of Pandora's Box.
Imperious nods solemnly.
I expected as much. You and I seek the same prize, warrior, but it appears that our efforts were in vain. Someone - perhaps Romulus, perhaps someone else - has removed the Box from this chamber since I was here last.
- You've been here before?
I have. I first arrived in this region at the behest of the Oracle, with no army at my back and no knowledge of this cavern's contents. I was accompanied only by my closest companion, the man known as Romulus Augustus. Here we fought monsters spoken of only in myth, and eventually found our way here, to this very altar.
It was here that we first discovered Pandora's Box, the ancient device left behind by the almighty Zeus. When we opened the box, I experienced... a vision, but more. It was a message from the gods, and it granted me their power.
I emerged a changed man. More than a man, but not quite a god... I believe that I was chosen, by Zeus himself, to be his avatar among men.
I was not the only one to experience this change, however. Romulus felt the same surge of power, the same vision... but darker, somehow. His strength grew beyond measure, but he began to show a cruelty I had never known in him before. I believe... I believe that moment may have been the beginning. I cannot help but wonder if Romulus would have betrayed me, had we not come here so long ago.
- Where do you think the box has been taken?
Imperious lets out an exasperated sigh.
If only I knew, warrior. This could be the work of the traitor, but... I believe that there may be other forces at work, here. We would never have found this cavern, had we not been first guided to it. Perhaps we were destined to receive its power... or perhaps, someone is manipulating the gifts of the gods to their own ends.
Whatever the reason, I know that it is no longer here. With this setback, I fear my search must end. The traitor is amassing his armies, and I must make preparations to confront him.
Imperious bows his head slightly to you.
You fought valiantly, warrior. I wish you fortune in your quest.
- Leave
Debriefing
You're back. Did you find anything good? No?
Harriman breathes a sigh of relief.
That means you're done with the whole time exploration gig then, right? I gotta say, I'm kind of glad. A lot of the stuff you're up to, it's a little over my head, you know? I mean, I like to work in the here and now. It's what I'm used to.
Speaking of which, while you were off playing Time Cadet, I've been working on scrounging up some leads. I may have found one...
Part Three: Professional Advice
Briefing
So, this Pandora's Box thing. Ancient, possibly magical artifact, really powerful, everyone wants it. Totally not my specialty. I do guns. But... I think I found someone who can help.
See, there's a guy who works with this kind of stuff. Goes all over the world, picking up magical trinkets wherever he can find them. The more powerful or famous it is, the more he's interested in it.
Thing is, this guy usually operates around Paragon. Makes sense, cause that place is filled with all sorts of kooky magic stuff and so that's where he'd want to be most of the time. But I've got a source that says he's paying a visit to the Isles this week, and after a bit of searching I think I've got an address for you.
So, how about it? You interested?
- I'm interested. Who is this guy?
Guy's name is Odysseus. Yeah, I know, weird name, right? Runs an outfit out of Paragon called the Fighters or the Barbarians or something. Anyway, my info has him managing shipments from a warehouse not far from here.
Keep your guard up when you go in, Character. This guy may be a magic-lovin' kook but he's tough, and he probably won't be happy to see you.
Unnecessary Solicitation
This Odysseus character isn't going to be here forever. You need to get moving if you want to catch him in the Isles.
Mission Objective(s)
This is the location Harriman indicated. It looks like Odysseus is moving some pretty high-grade merchandise through here.
- Interrogate Odysseus
- Find Odysseus
- Speak with Odysseus
You've negotiated an alliance with Odysseus and his Warriors, and may have gotten a crucial lead on Pandora's Box.
Enemies
Notable NPCs
Briefing
Odysseus struggles to catch his breath.
You got me, Character. Good show. Now, if you don't mind, please tell me why you've decided to crash my little side-business. I'm sure we can come to some sort of arrangement.
- Pandora's Box, Odysseus. Heard of it?
Odysseus manages a grin at the mention of Pandora's Box.
Heard of it? Character, I'd be surprised if there's a Villain in the Isles that hasn't heard about Pandora's Box. Everywhere you look, some chump with a scrap of power starts glowing yellow and becomes the Next Big Thing.
I've already diverted significant resources towards tracking down the artifact, and I was just preparing to pursue one of my leads.
- And that lead would be...?
Oh, you'd love the answer to that one, wouldn't you? Forbidden artifacts are my speciality, Character, and Pandora's Box is the Grand Prize. I'm not just going to give up the chase that easily.
- Who said you'd have to? I'm talking long-term here, Odysseus.
Odysseus furrows his brow in suspicion.
What are you proposing, Character?
- That we combine resources. Or do you want Arachnos to find the Box first?
That... is a fair point, Character. I shall consider your proposal.
You hand Odysseus one of Lastri's business cards. Odysseus claims it with a raised eyebrow.
Interesting. You've become rather organized, Character. I'll contact your assistant and negotiate terms. If we can come to an agreement, then you'll have my network at your disposal, as well as the support of my Warriors.
Odysseus stands, pocketing the card.
This may prove to be a profitable arrangement after all. Still... next time, call, will you? I would prefer to negotiate contracts with a little less damage to my property.
- Fair enough Odysseus. I'll speak with you later.
Debriefing
Hey, boss. Just got a call from Lastri. Said you convinced this Odysseus character to sign on, and wanted me to tell you that the paperwork's all been settled.
I gotta say, you can be convincing when you want to be. I figured you'd pound some info out of the guy - I never expected this to be a recruitment op. Anyway, Lastri sent along some info you're going to want to hear...
Part Four: High In Demand
Briefing
So, the lead Odysseus got is this guy named James Harvan. Apparently, he's this world-famous archaeologist. Goes around the world studying ancient ruins and finding old documents, stuff like that.
Here's the kicker, though: seems that Pandora's Box is the guy's specialty. Harvan's been searching for the Box for his whole life, way before this whole empowerment fiasco. You ask me, a lifetime of failure ain't much of a resume, but if you're looking for an expert on Pandora's Box, he's probably the guy.
- Fantastic. Where can I find him?
He's working on some kind of expedition off the coast of Albania. I already spoke with Lastri, and she's arranged transportation for you.
Word of warning, Character: Harvan's not just an expert on Pandora's Box, but a well-known expert. That means you might not be the only one looking for him. Just stay alert while you're there, and get him out ASAP. Once you've got him en route to the Mitscher, you should be in the clear.
Unnecessary Solicitation
Character, let me break this down for you. Right now? We've got some insider info. We know a guy who knows a guy, and we might be able to get some answers. But as soon as word gets out that Harvan's the man that knows Pandora's Box? You can bet he's going to disappear, and fast.
So, maybe show some hustle on this? That's my recommendation, anyway. You do what you want.
Mission Objective(s)
Dr. Harvan is the only one you know of with extensive knowledge of Pandora's Box. He's coming with you, whether he likes it or not.
- Track down James Harvan
- Locate Harvan
- Talk to the student
- Rescue Harvan
- Talk to Harvan
- Lead Harvan to safety
- Defeat Arachnos!
- Speak to Lastri
You defeated Arachnos, and escaped with Harvan unharmed.
Enemies
Notable NPCs
- Archaeology Student (Hapless Citizen Captive)
- This young man(woman) appears to be working on excavating the ruins in this cave.
- Anxious Student (Hapless Citizen Captive)
- Captain Castillo (Sky Raiders Elite Boss, Ally)
- Ghost Widow (Arachnos Elite Boss, Enemy)
- Lieutenant Harriman (Sky Raiders Wing Raider Boss, Ally)
- James Harvan (Oxford Professor Civilian, Hostage)
- Lastri Kayumanis (The Cottus Consortium Civilian)
- Nocturne (Arachnos Boss, Enemy)
- Odysseus (Warriors Elite Boss, Ally)
- Arbiter Sands (Arachnos Boss, Enemy)
Briefing
Fear and hope flash across the student's face as he tries to gauge whether or not you are a threat. He's clearly not in a stable state of mind.
W-what's going on here? What did that woman want with Professor Harvan?
This is too freaky. Did you see those guys? Who dresses like that?
- Get out more, kid. You've never heard of Arachnos?
- The student's eyes widen in fear and recognition.
- Wait... that wasn't... You mean those guys were Arachnos? Oh, man... oh man! I need to get out of here!
- This is not good! Arachnos is, like, seriously dangerous! We can't be here! We'll die!
- I can handle them kid, just tell me where Harvan is.
- The student seems to calm down a bit, reacting instinctively to your confidence.
- Yeah... uh, yeah, Professor Harvan. He's in the deepest section of the cave, he was... he was trying to map out the cavern structure so we could start excavating soon...
- The student fidgets nervously in front of you.
- Can... can I go now? I'd like to, um, leave.
- Sure, whatever. We're done here.
- Calm down. I need you to tell me where Doctor harvan is.
- The student appears to be under the impression that you are some kind of Hero.
- Professor Harvan's deeper in the cavern. He wanted to map out the cavern so that we could start excavating...
- That woman wasn't the only one after him. She had more people with her. Please, you have to help the Professor!
- Then I suppose I'd better go save him then, shouldn't I?.
- I'm going to reinstate Nocturne's offer. Info or the arm.
- The student cringes away from you.
- What is WRONG with you people? We're just here on some stupid class assignment!
- Still cringing, the student points deeper into the cavern.
- Professor Harvan's in the back, ok? Please don't hurt me!
- Get lost, kid. I don't want to see you again.
Briefing
Doctor Harvan appears to be somewhat flustered, but otherwise unharmed. Arachnos probably wanted him for the same reason you do.
Now see here, young man / lady! I demand to know what is going on here! We are on a licensed expedition, and if you people think you can intimidate us into-
- Doctor, Arachnos is looking for you. I'm here to help.
- Harvan's look of indignation turns to momentary doubt.
- Did you say... Arachnos? Oh, dear. I suppose I should have seen this coming.
- If they're here for me, then they must be searching for Pandora's Box. You see, I happen to be the foremost researcher in the field of-
- I know, Doctor. I need to get you out of here.
- Oh, oh yes, of course. I'll follow you out.
- Do be careful, young man / lady. I've heard Arachnos can be quite dangerous.
- You don't say.
- Quiet, Doctor. You're coming with me.
- Harvan puffs up with indignation.
- Uncultured brute! I will not submit to your ham-handed attempts at intimidation! I demand to know the name of your employer!
- I'm self-employed, Harvan. Now march, or I start causing pain.
- Harvan stares at you for a moment, still defiant. A moment later, you see a flicker of doubt, then fear... and Harvan's shoulders slump. Silently, he nods to you.
- Good. Follow me.
- (Backhand Harvan across the face)
- Harvan reels from the blow. When he recovers, he glares at you angrily.
- How DARE you! I'll have you know that I-
- Don't push me, Harvan. It's in your best interests to obey.
- Harvan stares at you for a moment, still defiant. A moment later, you see a flicker of doubt, then fear... and Harvan's shoulders slump. Silently, he nods to you.
- Good. Follow me.
- (Backhand Harvan again)
- This blow sends Harvan stumbling. He shakes his head roughly, regaining his senses, and starts yelling at you again.
- Will you STOP-
- You really want to go for three?
- Harvan stares at you for a moment, still defiant. A moment later, you see a flicker of doubt, then fear... and Harvan's shoulders slump. Silently, he nods to you.
- Good. Follow me.
- (Time for another backhand)
- The third attack drives Harvan to one knee. He struggles to his feet, and turns his bruised face back up to you. He opens his mouth to speak, but thinks better of it. He hangs his head, and shuffles forward to follow you.
- That's better.
Briefing
Good day, Character. I hope you didn't mind the interruption. The Mitscher detected Arachnos reinforcements approaching, and Mr. Hill claimed he could sense Ghost Widow's presence nearby. I thought it prudent to send you some of our own resources as well.
Negotiations with Dr. Harvan are underway. It appears you've made... quite the impression on him.
- I should hope so.
Briefing
I'll make sure Dr. Harvan has the appropriate accommodations. Arachnos apparently has the same information on his career that we do, so it would be safest to keep him aboard the Mitscher for now. I'll forward any pertinent information we obtain to Lieutenant Harriman, for your perusal.
If there's anything else, sir...?
- That will be all, Lastri.
Debriefing
None
Finale: The Key To Power
Briefing
Okay, boss. I think we're starting to close in, here. Lastri's already pumping Harvan for info, and we got something big. Harvan pointed us to something he called, 'The Key'. It's related to Pandora's Box somehow, and Harvan's convinced that if he can get his hands on it, then he can locate Pandora's Box for you. Sweet deal, right?
There's a catch, though. This key, it's a powerful artifact in its own right, and the Circle of Thorns have their grubby hands all over it. Lastri's in the middle of setting up an excursion to Paragon, and she asked me to send you to the Mitscher as soon as you're ready.
- I'll head out, then.
Right. I'd lend you the support of some of my boys, but... frankly, I'm not sure they'd be much help. Subterranean caverns aren't exactly our strong suit. We're called the Sky Raiders for a reason, you know.
Unnecessary Solicitation
Lastri's almost finished with her preparations, Character. As soon as you're ready, the expedition's gonna head out.
Mission Objective(s)
Lastri's team, professional as always, managed to get you into the lost city of Oranbega without incident. The rest is up to you.
- Search Oranbega for The Key
- Talk with Harvan
- Search for the Antikythera
- Defeat Lilitu
- Defeat Fusionette
You have defeated Lilitu, and retrieved the Antikythera.
Enemies
Circle of Thorns
Vanguard Shield
Notable NPCs
- Expedition Workers (The Cottus Consortium Civilian)
- Fusionette (Vanguard Shield Hero, Enemy)
- James Harvan (Oxford Professor Civilian)
- Lastri Kayumanis (The Cottus Consortium Civilian)
- Lilitu (Circle of Thorns Archvillain, Enemy)
Briefing
Welcome to the lost city of Oranbega, sir. My men will attempt to fortify this position, to ensure that Dr. Harvan is well protected.
I suggest you confer with him about this artifact he's looking for. I doubt conditions in the rest of the city will be safe enough for him to accompany you.
- Leave
Briefing
Harvan is examining the structure of the city carefully.
Amazing... judging by the sediment, I'd say this structure must be thousands of years old... but it clearly wasn't built this far underground, and it has hardly any structural damage...
Harvan finally notices you near him, and turns to you with a start.
Oh my! Oh... Character. I apologize. I find myself quite taken with this place. Simply fascinating.
- We're here for a reason, doctor. The Key...?
Ah, yes, the Key! Well, not strictly a key, per se, but I found that to be the best way to describe it to your mercenary friend. It's really more of a... focus. At least, that's what my father's research implies.
The object is called the Antikythera. I'm not entirely sure on its history or origins. It could have been created to work in tandem with Pandora's Box, or perhaps it was made afterwards, in order to manipulate it... regardless, it is a tool of incredible potential, and I believe it is integral to locating Pandora's Box.
- So, what am I looking for, exactly?
- This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- Your... father's research?
- Harvan nods studiously.
- My life has been devoted to finding and studying Pandora's Box, but much of my research is actually based on my father's work. He obsessed over locating the Box, simply to prove its existence. Most of his work was disregarded by his peers, but his research has helped me immensely in my search.
- The only obstacle I've encountered in my studies has been the lack of appropriate funding and manpower to track down the components of my father's work... but thanks to you, that is no longer a problem, now, is it?
- So, what am I looking for, exactly?
- The Antikythera's humble appearance belies its potential, Character. It is small, small enough to carry under one arm, and resembles an ancient measuring device. Which, I suppose, is true, though few know what the Antikythera truly measures.
- You must be careful, Character. I do not know if the Circle of Thorns know the Antikythera's true purpose, but they are most certainly aware of the power inherent in the device. You will likely find the object to be well-guarded.
- If you can retrieve the device, I can begin using it to locate Pandora's Box. I wish you luck, Character. In this hunt, our goals are one and the same.
- I'll be back shortly
Debriefing
Smooth operation as usual, boss. The more this goes on, the more it feels like we're holding all the cards. We've got Harvan and the Antikythera, and all anyone else has are bruises for getting in our way. That's the kind of M.O. I can get behind.
Still, I think we're at a point where I'm not gonna be of much use. My boys and I will keep your operations secure, but the search for this thing is way beyond our area of expertise. People like Lastri and Harvan are good at wrapping their heads around cosmic power, but I'm just not.
At the point when you start using one crazy artifact to track down another, well, that's when my brain checks out, and frankly, I kinda like it that way.