Difference between revisions of "Ghost Widow"

{{otheruses4|1=the signature character|2=the developer Ghost Widow|3=Ghost Widow (Developer)}}

{{Contact Overview|Name=Ghost Widow|City=V|Zone=Grandville|x=2700|y=-58.9|z=847|Pronoun=her|HoodYN=N|Hood=The Tangle|OriginYN=Y|Origin=Magic|LevelYN=N|Level=40-50}}

Heroes and Villains can find her in [[Recluse's Victory]] as one of the signature villains that show up as reinforcements.

 

 

 

== Badge ==

== Notes ==

* Ghost Widow's [[Arachnos Archvillains#Ghost Widow|Arachnos Archvillains]] profile for a list of her powers

* [[Ghost Widow (Developer)]] - the Developer using the name of the character

 

Formerly an Arachnos [[Night Widows|Night Widow]], Belladonna Vetrano was killed on a strike mission in 1989. She was leading a team against a troublesome member of [[The Family]] on [[Mercy Island]]. It is unknown what exactly happened except that the mission was a complete failure. Not only did the team fail to meet the objective, but almost everyone on the strike team lost their life, including Belladonna. The only person to survive was Paolo Marino, the leader of the [[Wolf Spiders|Wolf Spider]] squad, who in an altered form called [[Wretch]], now serves as Ghost Widow's loyal guardian and protector.

Ghost Widow is but one of several ghosts who continue to interact with the living world. Other examples include [[Archmage Tarixus]], [[War Witch]], and [[Woodsman]]. Ghost Widow tends to be far more active, however. It is believed that ghosts only exist in the living world when something anchors their spirits here, be it unfinished business, loved ones or vengeance. A ghost can only be permanently destroyed once it's anchor is eliminated. Ghost Widow's anchor appears to be [[Arachnos]] itself. As long as the organization exists, so shall she.

=== Quotes ===

(Ghost Widow faces a group of Mu Mystics headed by the Wolf Spider Huntsman Ohanko)

{{Cutscene|Text=

:''I'm here to destroy you, Ghost Widow.''<br />''But unlike some of the others, this isn't personal for me.''<br />''I'm only in this for the power.''

'''Ghost Widow:'''

:''Is that your plan?''<br />''Fools!''<br />''You've got it all wrong.  Even if you could hurt my dear Wretch, he's not the anchor you imagine him to be.''<br />''My spirit is not bound to Wretch, Ohanko.  I died worrying about poor Paolo, and the dead cannot change.''<br />''I'll always care for him, and in what's left of his mind, he for me.''<br />''But I don't need him.''

'''Huntsman Ohanko:'''

'''Ghost Widow:'''

:''But you, Ohanko...''<br />''Your end is coming soon...''

'''Huntsman Ohanko:'''

:''Ignore her lies!''<br />''Begin the ceremony!''

'''Ghost Widow:'''

:''And its name is {{Character}}!''}}

'''Ghost Widow:''' ''I know the content of the warning you bring. They seek to take the life of one of the dead, and they will fail at that. But there is another life they hunger for.''

{{Mission Clue|Name=The Widow's Words|Text=After you released Ghost Widow from the spells of the Mu, she spoke to you:

'I know your warning, and I know what Seer Marino hopes to gain. It's ironic that you and Pia have done so much to save my life, really. I'm already dead, and she'll never get what she wants.

Death is like being a living memory. All I am, all I can be, was frozen at the moment I died. We, the dead, cannot change on our own. The dead cannot move on.  And the dead cannot let go.  But for those like me, those still able to think and to feel, it's a curse beyond imagining. I can understand what has become of me.  I can understand that I am dead, and that I am in a way, a living memory.

I died worrying for Paolo, and I will care for him as best I can as long as I exist; it's part of what makes me exist.  But by the same token, I also cannot give him up.  And though I've tried to make him go, he will not leave my side until he thinks I am safe.  We are bound together, protecting each other in our strange half-lives.

Tell Pia I'm sorry, but I cannot give Paolo back to her.  All I can do is try to protect him as he protects me.  I know that they move to kill him.  Mu'Rakir's hatred for my poor Wretch has left that mystic twisted and blind.  Well, more so than is normal for his kind.  He thinks I need Wretch to re-form my spirit should I be dispersed.  I do not.  My spirit was re-bound to Arachnos itself, not to any one man.  No, I need Wretch because concern for him is a part of me.  And the dead cannot change.

Save Wretch, and all your trespasses will be forgiven.}}

'''Other Powers:''' [[Flight]], [[Soul Mastery]]<br />

'''Signature Powers:'''  Ethereal, Soul Storm ([[Magnitude|mag]]100)

Prior to [[Issue 22]], Ghost Widow had access to two powersets which were unavailable to Dominators.  This is probably considered normal, as many [[Hero]]es and [[Archvillain]]s have access to powers the players will not have.  ''Soul Storm'', as used by Ghost Widow, is an [[AoE]] ranged power, with [[magnitude]] 100.  If it hits, this will effectively allow her to hold any fightable mob in the game.

[[File:208px-Rndr_Ghost_Widow_03.png|right]]

'''Arachnos Matron'''

Beautiful, mysterious, and deadly.  Ghost Widow appears to be an actual spirit from beyond the grave rather than a super with some sort of incorporeal power.  Some have said she was once a rising star in the Night Widows when she was slain.  Her thirst for vengeance must have been great, for she returned from the void and now serves at Recluse's side. There are rumors that her service isn't entirely voluntary, however.

=== Initial Contact ===

* Come closer, {{Character}}.

* Are you afraid? Good.

* What do you wish to speak about, {{Character}}?

You have traveled time and done the impossible.  I think that we've done enough together.

 

'''The rest of Ghost Widow's store is unlocked after completing the first Story Arc, [[Ghost Widow#Mystic Mayhem .2840-44.29|Mystic Mayhem]].'''<br />

''It is difficult for the dead to learn to trust, but you have done much for me. I think I will trust you. Contact me at any time.''

 

 

This self-perpetuating puzzle was created by [[Scirocco]] at the request of your patron, Ghost Widow.  While it's now little more than a desktop trophy, it once served as a psychic beacon to draw in one of [[Paragon City]]'s most powerful defenders. It's still a potent reminder of the adventure you like to call:

It began with a [[Longbow]] raid on one of Ghost Widow's hidden bases.  Ghost Widow was disturbed by the loss of the base, but even more disturbed by how it came to be found.  Its location was, after all, a well-guarded secret.  Even the fact that some of Scirocco's Mu Mystics had been there to help upset her, and she promised to have words with him.

Scirocco offered to share what he knew, but only if you tried to help one of his Mu Mystics escape from a Longbow captivity.  Afterwards, he explained how he knew about the raid: He'd been tracking the entity who had found Ghost Widow's base: The ghostly sorceress [[Numina]], of the [[Freedom Phalanx]]!

Since Numina's astral form shared certain traits with Ghost Widow's undead existence, it makes it difficult for them to fight each other, but Ghost Widow had a plan.  First, she needed spell components, so she send you to rob a [[Circle of Thorns]] base.  You returned with the items she requested, and now the spell was ready.

I have agreed to work with you, {{Character}}, but know this: I do not trust you. Oh, it's not that I have anything in particular against you, it's just that I was very short on trust when I died, and the dead cannot change. Though that also means I have little to worry about physical harm, you could hurt my political standing within [[Arachnos]], or worse, you could harm my [[Lord Recluse]]. So you must excuse me if I regard our relathionship with some trepidation. Still, you can be useful to me, particulary for more dangerous things. For example, [[Longbow]] has attacked a secret [[Arachnos]] facility I had constructed on [[Mercy Island]], a facility where I've stored some important things. It would not do to see the items within that base fall into heroic hands. {{green|You must go at once and stop the attack.}}

This base was a closely guarded secret, {{Character}}. I must know how that secret got out. Then, I may have something else for you to do.

Why are you here? [[Longbow]] is even now rifling through my valued possessions, and I need you to stop them.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=The air in here has the heady, powerful feel of magic recently cast. Someone has been doing spells here.|Primary=Defeat all Longbow in base|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=You have stopped the Longbow raid.}}

'''Primary Enemies'''

 

{{Enemy Longbow}}

* [[Arachnos]] [[Mu mystics#Mu Guardian|Mu Guardian]] (Ally, [[Pet (NPC)|Pet-class]]) x 2

* [[Arachnos]] [[Night Widows#Night Widow|Night Widow]] (Ally, [[Pet (NPC)|Pet-class]])

 

{{Ambush|After rescuing the Mu Guardian, there will be a [[Longbow]] ambush.

Random Longbow: ''Get the mystics!''}}

{{Ambush|After rescuing the Night Widow, there will another ambush by [[Longbow]].

{{Ambush|After rescuing the last Mu Guardian, there will be a last ambush by [[Longbow]].

Random Longbow:  ''Stop right there!''}}

'''Before combat:'''

:'''Longbow:''' ''Stop floating and fight like a man!''

:'''Longbow:''' ''Get back! This is a Longbow operation!''

'''Upon rescue:''' ''You work for the Widow?  Yes.  Tell her [[Scirocco]] send us to her aid.''}}

'''Before combat:'''

 

{{Bug|The enemies guarding the two Night Widows can sometimes spawn as [[Circle of Thorns]]. If this happens, they will be attacked by any surrounding Longbow not part of the guarding group.}}

There were Mu present? Sent by [[Scirocco]]? Interesting. How did he know of my base, or that it was under attack? I will need to speak with him at some length. I do not like this kind of interference in my affairs. Remember that, {{Character}}. Still, what truly upsets me is that [[Longbow]] found that base at all.

I have spoken with [[Scirocco]]. He says that he had learned of the Longbow attack from one of his Mu Mystics, who had been working on a special project. Unfortunately, that mystic's role in that project came to light, and the heroes have captured him. Scirocco tells me that if I have you recover that man, he'll share how he learned what he knows. {{green|I need you to free that mystic, {{Character}}.}}

Try to bring this man out alive, {{Character}}. He is the key to learning what Scirocco knows.

'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''

Try to bring this man out alive, {{Character}}. He is the key to learning what Scirocco knows.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=Longbow has managed to dot little hidden bases even near the [[Grandville]] coast.|Primary=Rescue the mystic|Secondary=Lead mystic out|Additional=|Completion=Failure - The mystic has been defeated.<br />Success - You have freed Scirocco's mystic.}}

'''Primary Enemies'''

 

* [[Arachnos]] [[Arachnos#Mu Guardian|Mu Guardian]] (Ally, Boss-class, must escort to exit)

Random Longbow:  ''"They're getting away!"''}}

:'''Random Longbow captor:''' ''Look, pal, you're not getting out of here, so you might as well start talking.''

:'''Mu Guardian:''' ''I am beyond your threats.''

'''Upon rescue:'''  ''So the Ghost Widow sent someone after all. Let us proceed.''<br />

'''If lost:'''  ''I need your aid, {{Character}}.''<br />

'''Debriefing''' ''Mission Successful''

Numina and I are alike, in a way. We are neither of us alive. But whereas I am a ghost, she's an astral form. It makes it difficult for the two of us to hurt each other. But Scirocco's research has uncovered an interesting spell that might be able to effect her. Regrettably, a few of the components are quite rare. However, the [[Circle of Thorns]] often keeps what I'll need around for similar spells of their own. And I will need you to '''get those components from a Circle encampment beneath Thorn Isle in the [[Nerva Archipelago]].'''

There should be three components you'll need to find. Once we have those, Numina will soon come to regret her interference in [[Arachnos]] business.

Until we have those spell components, Numina will remain a threat.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=The air is sharp with mystical energy.|Primary=Steal spell components|Secondary=3 ingredients to steal|Additional=|Completion=You have the spell components.}}

'''Primary Enemies'''

{{Enemy Circle of Thorns}}

Random Circle of Thorns:  ''"Guard the sigil!"''}}

Random Circle of Thorns:  ''"We must not lose our spellbooks!"''}}

{{Ambush|After obtaining the herbs, there will be a [[Circle of Thorns]] ambush.

Excellent, I feel Numina's time growing short. But so is ours. We must hurry to prevent further interference.

We have the incantation. We have the components. The only thing we're missing for this ritual is Numina. But don't think you can just go busting into [[Paragon City]] to find her. No, she's clever, and will have to be lured into our territory, then trapped long enough to hold her to the fight. And while I have an idea of how to trap her, I need to know more about how to lure her in. And that's where my spies have come in handy. '''It turns out that the [[Crey]] Corporation recently did a study of Numina. I want you to get it for me.''' Their more scientific perspective may give me the clue I need to draw Numina into the trap.

Get to the Crey facility on Grandville. There, find out everything they've learned about Numina.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=Crey collects data on all heroes, large and small. No doubt they'll have files on Numina.|Primary=Find info on Numina

|Secondary=2 pieces of information|Additional=|Completion=You have the spell components.}}

'''Primary Enemies'''

{{Enemy Crey}}

{{Mission Clue|Name=Files on Ghost Widow|Text=You weren't expecting to find this.  These are Crey's file on Ghost Widow.  They posit that the reason all previous attempts to exorcise Ghost Widow have failed is because her spirit is somehow bound to Arachnos itself. If she was to somehow find herself in conflict with Arachnos, it could create enough dissonance within her to force her into a fight she would otherwise escape from.}}

''You found files on Numina.''<br />

{{Mission Clue|Name=Files on Numina|Text=These Crey files indicate that Numina is greatly sensitive to psychic emanations.  This allows her to locate many supernatural and paranormal dangers before they can become a threat.  Many of the files talk about how to protect a project from her discovery.}}

{{Ambush|After obtaining the Numina files, there will be three waves of [[Crey]] ambushes.

Random Crey:  ''"Stop the intruder!"''}}

'''Before combat:'''<br />

 

'''Security Chief:''' ''"I don't see how this helps us."''<br />

'''Security Chief:'''  ''"The [[Malta Operatives|Malta group]] is willing to pay for those files, and for [[Dr. Nelson]]."''<br />

'''Headhunter-725:''' ''"We'll talk about this later."''}}

So. [[Numina]] is sensitive to psychic emanations, I see. I will need to find a way to take advantage of that. I think I'll also report to [[Lord Recluse]] about Crey's study of me. I doubt he'll be pleased, and that will bring bad business to Crey. That does leave the matter of those [[Malta Operatives|Malta group]] people, but I don't think that's going to concern us for a while.

[[Numina]] is drawn to psychic emanations, but even once she's been drawn in, she'll need to be kept in place to keep her from escaping. I have spoken with [[Scirocco]], and he's been very willing to help me. He's almost... nice... to me, actually. It's strange. But then, neither of us wants Numina poking her astral nose into our affairs. Scirocco thinks he may have a way to draw her in, '''I want you to speak with him about it. At the same time, ask him if he's found a suitable group of Carnival folk. I have a plan to hold her in place, but I'll need some of the [[Carnival of Shadows]]' face-masks for it. I asked for help finding a Carnival of Shadows group, se he'll be able to tell you where to go.'''

A word before you go. Scirocco has been very helpful to me, but then, so have you. I greeted you with such distrust, and I tell myself that the dead do not change, so that is just my nature. But though death is this strange stasis, one can find that there are parts of one's self that are not gone, but merely disused and forgotten. I mean, I was a whole person before I died, even though I concentrate mostly on who I was at the moment of my death. What I'm trying to say is, thank you. You have been a great help.

'''Unecessary Solicitation'''

Go. Hurry. Scirocco awaits you.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Speak to Scirocco|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=}}

{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Scirocco|Text=Ah, yes. {{Character}}.  The rising Star among our legions of darkness.  I have heard that Ghost Widow herself has come to depend on you, and I see evidence of this in your presence.  As she prepares her trap for Numina, she sends you to speak with me.  Yes, I can create a spell that will act as a beacon for Numina's psychic sight.  And while I am preparing it, no doubt the Widow seeks a group of [[Carnival of Shadows|Carnival revelers]] for their masks.  I know just the place, out on [[St. Martial]].  You'll need to gather about six of the lesser masks that have not been bonded to a wearer.  You should also take the mask of the revelry's leader, a woman named Riallia.}}

'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''

Good!  I somehow felt Scirocco would come through.  Get those masks from the [[Carnival of Shadows|Carnival revelers]] I'll need them for the final step.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=Looks like you're just in time to crash the party.|Primary=Crash Carnival revel to steal masks|Secondary=6 masks

** Get Rialla's mask|Additional=|Completion=You have stolen the masks you need.}}

* Riallia {{Named|Faction=Carnival of Shadows|Type=Master Illusionist}}

'''Before Combat:''' ''"What a night, eh?"''<br />

===== {{UL|Speak to Scirocco}} =====

'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''

Scirocco awaits you.

{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Scirocco|Text=You arrive at just the proper moment. I have created this self-sustaining beacon, I call it the sand riddle.  Once set in motion, it will produce a great deal of psychic noise, all of which will look very ominous indeed to Numina.  Take it to Ghost Widow as a token of my good will to her.

But I should warn you.  Drawing Numina in, and even holding her in place are but a start.  Those actions alone will not guarantee you victory.  I seem to recall a story about bells and cats that might be appropriate, but I'll leave it up to you to handle.}}

{{Mission Clue|Name=The Sand Riddle|Text=Created by [[Scirocco]], this self-perpetuating puzzle will act as a psychic beacon, drawing [[Numina]] like a moth to a flame.}}

Excellent!  My trust in you has been rewarded.  I will take those masks, and the spell.  Soon, Numina's interference will be at an end.  And it will all be thanks to you.

I have forged Scirocco's spell and the most powerful mask you found to make a trap.  Once activated, it will lure Numina, but prevent her from leaving.  '''Now, go to a Longbow base and plant the beacon to lure Numina out.'''  Numina will be drawn to it, like a fly to honey.  When she arrives, as she surely will, you may do with her as you wish.  The spell I have performed will allow you to attack her, and defeat her.

Oh, and if you wish to make Numina suffer, that is your own affair.  Personally, it would not grieve me at all.

''This Psychic trap will capture Numina for sure!''

{{Mission Clue|Name=The Spirit Trap|Text=Created by Ghost Widow using her own dark magics, Scirocco's psychic beacon, and the major Carnival mask you stole; this artifact will not only draw out Numina, but will trap her before she can escape.}}

'''Unecessary Solicitation '''

Numina must be defeated, and I have given you the tools to do it. The other masks are in place, and this plan cannot fail. Go!

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=Numina won't be the first hero you've taken out, or the first ghost. But it should be a memorable experience nonetheless.|Primary=Defeat Numina|Secondary=Plant psychic trap|Additional=|Completion=You have planted the psychic beacon.<br />

''The psychic beacon should draw Numina, and the trap will keep her.''<br />

''You have defeated Numina!''}}

'''Primary Enemies'''

{{NPC Text|title=Numina dialogue|text=

'''First blood:''' ''"Your crimes against humanity can no longer be tolerated, {{Character}}!"''<br />

'''75% Health:'''  ''"How?  how is it you can injure me?"''<br />

'''Debriefing'''

You did your job to perfection.  I felt the moment of Numina's defeat.  Unfortunately, one of my handmaidens and her guardians were ambushed on the way to place one of the lesser masks by [[Blue Steel]].  I fear that Numina's spirit was able to escape, but even so, she will be weakened and of no concern for some time as she tries to re-gather her spectral essence.  You have done well, {{Character}}.  Well Indeed.  You are an asset to my organization, and to [[Arachnos]].  I am... I am glad, yes, glad that you chose me as your patron.  And now that Numina's interference is done with, I can move forward with my greater plans.  Plans that will now include you, I think.

In thanks to you, I will grant you access to powers unlike those you've had before. Powers only I could control, but that I will share with you. And I will give you another gift, my loyal villain.  If your powers have developed in ways you regret, I will grant you the power to change them this once.  Speak with [[Arbiter Lupin]] in Nerva Archipelago.  He will help you use my gift.

It is difficult for the dead to learn to trust, but you have done much for me. I think I will trust you.  Contact me at any time.

'''Rewards'''

Completion of this mission awards the [[Spider's Kiss Badge]] and the [[Crab Spider Longfang Badge]]. 

{{BadgeBox|Spider's Kiss}}

A [[respec]] will be given, and all [[Patron Power Pools]] ([[Soul Mastery]], [[Leviathan Mastery]], [[Mace Mastery]], and [[Mu Mastery]]) will also be unlocked.

=== {{UL|Life and Death (40-50)}} ===

'''Daos' seal'''

After you obeyed his command to punish Ghost Widow for her actions against Red Widow, [[Arbiter Daos]] gave you this seal. It's a mark of distinction within [[Arachnos]], as well as a reminder of the adventure you like to call:

'''Life and Death'''

You stole the tome from a [[Circle of Thorns|Circle]] base, and Ghost Widow prepared to work her magic.

But she wanted to test the ritual first. She sent you to gather some artifacts of another spirit's life.

You gathered the items, and learned that Ghost Widow's target was none other than Red Widow, one of [[Lord Recluse]]'s most trusted assassins. You performed the ceremony, but instead of restoring Red Widow to life, you used a soul crystal to trap her.

Ghost Widow was ready to work the spell on herself, but first you were summoned before [[Arbiter Daos]]. He informed you that Ghost Widow's actions had incurred the ire of [[Lord Recluse]]. If you wished to drag yourself out of the hole she had dug, you would not help Ghost Widow; instead, you would punish her. [[Arbiter Daos|Daos]] first had you recover the Red Widow's soul from one of Ghost Widow's bases. Once this was done, he had a final task for you: He wants you to defeat Ghost Widow when she tries to re-form herself, destroying her new body and returning her to her spectral form.

Your relationship with Ghost Widow has taken a serious hit, but you're not too concerned about it. After all, you are a villain who has bested Ghost Widow. Surely her wrath means little to you now.

We've worked together for a while, you and I, and I think you have proven that I can trust you to help me, in even the most delicate of matters. Tell me, {{Character}}, have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a ghost? Immortal, untouchable, unchanging. By some standards, a perfect being. I won't deny that my existence has it's benefits, but I still long to be human again. I can't help it. The dead cannot change, and when you are dying you want nothing more than life. And now I may have found a way to return from this state and live once again. This is what I have been working towards. '''{{Character}}, I want your help to bring me back to life.'''

I am close to developing a ritual that will help me reclaim my body, but I need some more information from the [[Circle of Thorns]]. Seek them out, and force them to tell you about a book called the Tome of Tormvodel.

If the Circle has the tome, then I will be on the verge of a new life.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Question Circle mages|Secondary=Defeat 30 Circle of Thorns|Additional=|Completion=One of the mystics you defeated told you what you wanted to know.}}

{{Mission Clue|Name=The mystic's story|Text=One of the Circle mages you defeated said:

'The Tome of Tormvodel? I know it. It's secrets are useless to us, but if you truly sought to restore a ghost to it's body, perhaps it could work. We've recently recovered a copy from a seller in the [[Nerva Archipelago]]. But if you value your life and soul, you'd never be fool enough to try and take it from us!'}}

You never disappoint, {{Character}}. I knew I could turn to you for results. Now, we must acquire this Tome of Tormvodel. I trust you will be your usual capable self.

==== {{UL|Get the Tome of Tormvodel}} ====

If that Circle mystic can be believed, the Tome of Tormvodel contains the last secret I need to restore my life. You must get it from [[Nerva Archipelago]] at once.

I long, {{Character}}, I hunger to once again shuffle on the mortal coil. Come back quickly.

Do not keep me waiting. I want that book.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=If the mage was correct, the tome should be somewhere within these ancient halls.|Primary=Get the Tome of Tormvodel|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=You have stolen the tome, as Ghost Widow requested.}}

'''Primary Enemies'''

{{Enemy Circle of Thorns}}

The Tome of Tormvodel. The key to my mortality. Soon I will touch it with warm hands of living flesh, and look back on all these dark years lived in death's shadow as no more than a dream. But first, I must make certain that it will work. And oh, do I have a plan for that.

==== {{UL|Test the ceremony}} ====

We now have the spell that will turn me human once more. And though I yearn for life with every echo of my ghostly heart, my years in [[Arachnos]] have taught me, often painfully, to retain my caution. The Circle was almost too willing to give up that spell, and I think that it might be a trap. So, I will test this new process, and I know just the subject. Unfortunately, [[Lord Recluse]] might not be happy with the idea. '''So, I'm going to need you to get a few things for me.'''

Our subject will be someone who was once very dear to Lord Recluse. Sometimes I think I feel her spirit around these islands still. It is on her that we shall test the ritual. I know of an Arachnos base where many of her belongings are kept. Go there, and bring me all that you can. In order to keep our secret a little longer, you must leave no witnesses within.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=You have entered these bases both as ally and adversary.  You have no illusions that Ghost Widow's blessing will protect you in here.|Primary=Defeat all Arachnos troops

|Secondary=3 items to steal|Additional=|Completion=You have the spirit's possessions.}}

'''Enemies'''

'''After getting spellbooks:'''  ''"We must stop the intruders!"''<br />

'''After getting red hat:'''  ''"The Widow's possessions!"''}}

{{Mission Clue|Name=Spellbooks|Text=You stole these books from an [[Arachnos]] base. They belonged to the spirit Ghost Widow intends to enchant.}}

{{Mission Clue|Name=Red cloak|Text=You stole this cloak from an [[Arachnos]] base. It belonged to the spirit Ghost Widow intends to enchant.}}

''You have found a tall, red hat.''

{{Mission Clue|Name=Red hat|Text=You stole this hat from an [[Arachnos]] base.  It belonged to the spirit Ghost Widow intends to enchant.}}

Wonderful. These items once belonged to the woman who stood at Lord Recluse's side. The dreaded [[Red Widow]]. She perished in an avalanche while Lord Recluse battled [[Statesman]], or so it is said. Sometimes I think Lord Recluse still thinks of her. With these, we shall test the ritual, and see if we can restore her to life. What happens to her afterward? That is a question I shall have to ponder.

==== {{UL|Test the ceremony on Red Widow}} ====

{{Character}}, I have thought it over at some length, and have come to a decision. I wish to test this ceremony, but I do not truly wish to make Red Widow live again. No. Were she to live once more, she would likely be able to wrest control of the Widows and Fortunatas from me. And I cannot allow that to happen. In order to complete the ceremony without rendering her solid, you will need a vessel for her spirit, such as a Circle of Thorns soul crystal. Seek out one of these crystals, perform the ceremony, and bring Red Widow's spirit back to me.

What will I do once I have Red Widow's spirit in my grasp? It is hard to say, {{Character}}. No witnesses or clues remain to implicate us in the theft of her belongings. And once you have the soul crystal, there will be nothing to stop us.

Do you know that Lord Recluse called me by her name, once? He confided his uncertainty about an upcoming operation to me, and then told me that he felt he could trust me above all others. And it was minutes later that I realized he had called me by her name, and not my own. No. It's best not to think of what will become of Red Widow. I think it is better if you do not wonder.

'''Primary Enemies'''

{{NPC Text|title=Random Chatter|text=

'''A Random Circle of Thorns:'''  ''Bad things are afoot.''<br />

'''Another Random Circle of Thorns:'''  ''Yes. {{Character}} is playing with powers best left alone.''}}

{{Mission Clue|Name=The Soul of Red Widow|Text=This clear crystal is lit by a reddish light, and contains the captured soul of the Red Widow.  You have to wonder whether holding this thing is entirely safe.}}

So you were able to draw out her soul? Excellent! Let me have it. Now, I will prepare some basic tests, and quickly.

The soul of Red Widow, at last. Who is my lord's pet now, vile creature? I have always known that you were weaker than me.

You must go at once to [[Grandville]]. [[Arbiter Daos]] has summoned you. He would not tell me his purpose, and I have no authority to compel him to answer. Whatever he wants, please dispense with it quickly. He probably has some errand for the glory of Arachnos. Which is important, of course, but not something I can be bothered with. I must work out the extent of the ceremony, and prepare it. This should buy some time to do so.

Daos may know of our actions, but I doubt he knows the purpose. I urge you to tell him nothing he has not already uncovered!

Arbiter Daos will not be kept waiting.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=|Primary=Talk to Arbiter Daos|Secondary=|Additional=|Completion=}}

{{Mission Briefing|Type=Briefing|Contact=Arbiter Daos|Text=Welcome, {{Character}}.  I believe you have put yourself in an unfortunate predicament, and I am here to give you the chance to extricate yourself.  First of all, do not attempt to act innocent.  Yes, I know everything that's happened and I know what's being planned.  Ghost Widow has far underestimated my intelligence gathering, and she's going to pay for that.  Ghost Widow's actions against Red Widow are unforgivable, and she must be punished for them.  Normally, you would be executed for your part in this, but Lord Recluse believes that you may have a greater destiny, and has decided to spare your life and possibly even promote you, if you are willing to betray Ghost Widow and mete out her punishment.

===== {{UL|Replace Crystals}} =====

Hurry and complete whatever task Daos has given you. I'm deep in my researches. I'll have need for you soon.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=You remember the first time you saw the Widow's Tower, when you arrived at Mercy Island.  Who'd have thought it would come to this?|Primary=Replace Crystals|Secondary=Switch the crystals|Additional=|Completion=You switched the crystals.}}

'''Primary Enemies'''

''You have replaced the real crystal with the fake one.  Betraying Ghost Widow may not be smart, but it's got to be better than betraying Lord Recluse.  Now, to give the real crystal to Arbiter Daos.''

===== {{UL|Return crystal to Daos}} =====

{{Mission Briefing|Type=Debriefing|Contact=Arbiter Daos|Text=My Lord Recluse will be glad to have this. And that gratitude will almost be enough to spare your life, despite your part in all of this. Do one more thing, and not only will you be forgiven your trespasses, but you may well be rewarded. When Ghost Widow attempts to restore her life, you are to use that moment to strike her down once more. Her soul will resume it's ghostly un-life, and once more be bound to Arachnos.

The [[Red Widow]] was one of Lord Recluse's most trusted assistants. It was she who assassinated the original leader of Arachnos, leaving our Lord in charge. And, over all the years he has been in power, Lord Recluse has never forgotten this. Remember that. Lord Recluse never forgets. And if you fail to mete out the punishment I decree for Ghost Widow, Lord Recluse will not forget that, either.

I have often thought our poor Ghost Widow might hold a hatred for Red Widow. A rivalry, of sorts, though the two have never met. They are both beautiful ghosts who still haunt Arachnos, though in different ways. Maybe it is jealousy that drove Ghost Widow to this? In the end, it doesn't matter. Just remember your part. Instead of helping return to life, you are to defeat her.}}

You return, my {{Character}}, and alive. That can only mean that Daos knows nothing. If he suspected anything, he surely would have had you... Dealt with.

Did that sound callous of me? It's difficult to tell. The dead often forget the perils of the living. It will be so strange to experience it all once more.

I now stand on the cusp of mortality, and I have you to thank. I will not forget this moment, I assure you.

Whatever Arbiter Daos wanted from you, it need not delay my ceremony any longer. I will be flesh again, {{Character}}! I will walk these streets once more!

You must go to the tunnels of Mu once more. There, you can enact the ritual that will make me mortal at last!

 

I grow impatient, {{Character}}. Complete the ceremony at once!

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=Ghost Widow has no idea that Arbiter Daos has ordered you to stop this.|Primary=Betray Ghost Widow|Secondary=Trap Ghost Widow

'''Primary Enemies'''

 

 

* '''Ghost Widow''' ([[Archvillain]])

''Note:  Ghost Widow will not have access to her '''Ethereal''' power for this fight.''

 

 

Random Circle of Thorns 1:  ''"Something is afoot with Ghost Widow."''<br />

Random Circle of Thorns 1:  ''Oh, no! Not here!"''}}

'''Ghost Widow:'''

'''Combat start:''' ''"What has happened?  Why am I not whole?  Why am I not alive?"''<br />

:''"You have betrayed me, {{Character}}, and you will die for it!"''<br />

'''50% Health:'''  ''"Betrayer!  Deceiver!  I will see you dead yet, and make your soul my slave!"''<br />

'''Defeats player:'''  ''"Hah!  Suffer, wretched traitor!"''}}

Arbiter Daos was waiting for me the moment I returned to my ghostly form. He told me everything. So, {{Character}}, you chose to obey Arbiter Daos, and to betray me. An interesting choice. One that secures your future within Arachnos, but does considerable damage to our relationship. But don't think that I'm mad, or will seek revenge. Such passions are the folly of the living. No, I will do as I have been ordered. I will free the soul of Red Widow, as Arbiter Daos commands. But I will have to give great consideration to which task I give you next.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

==== {{UL|Perform a task}} ====

I have not forgotten your recent betrayals, {{Character}}.  Nor shall I ever forget.  But I am bound to [[Arachnos]], and thus to my [[Lord Recluse]].  And my Lord Recluse feels that your success against me is the ultimate display of your true power.  You have risen up through the ranks, and now stand at the heights of power, as was foretold.  No doubt you've heard that Lord Recluse seeks a 'Destined One' to bring about his final victory against [[Statesman]] and the heroes of Paragon City?  He believes that you are that one, and that it is time for you to join us in Operation: Destiny.  The first step on that road begins with a small task.

 

'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''

It is not essential that my operative survives.  What is essential is that you get those files at once.

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=The sea breeze is bracing.|Primary=Rescue agent aboard|Secondary=Meet the operative|Additional=|Completion=You have acquired the files from Ghost Widow's operative.}}

'''Enemies'''

 

 

 

 

 

 

{{Mission Clue|Name=Operation DESTINY files|Text= The files you recovered from Ghost Widow's operative list several men whom [[Arachnos]] may call on for 'assistance' in Operation DESTINY.}}

'''Combat start:'''<br />

'''Random Longbow captor:''' ''"Holy moley! It's {{Character}}!"''

'''Upon rescue:'''  ''"Thank goodness you're here.  Here are the files."''}}

Wonderful.  These files contain information that means a great deal to Arachnos, {{Character}}.  You have done well.

 

==== {{UL|Kidnap Dr. Franks}} ====

According to these files you recovered, my agent had found four probable candidates whose knowledge and talents are needed for Operation: DESTINY to succeed.  Of course, in order to properly persuade them, I need these gentlemen to be in [[Arachnos]] custody.  You can take care of that, can't you, {{Character}}?  The first candidate is a [[Dr. Franks]].  He is a [[SERAPH]] researcher, currently working with their temporal mechanics division.  And while the [[Paragon Police]] will likely have him under heavy guard, that should present no obstacle for you to '''go in and retrieve him from Paragon City.'''

 

'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''

I want Dr. Franks in my custody.  Immediately!

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=You take a moment to reflect how it's always the little people, like Dr. Franks, who are hurt by Arachnos' big schemes.  Saps.|Primary=Kidnap Dr. Franks

{{red|''Note: Dr. Franks is located in the SERAPH building within the outdoor map.  In addition, once he is captured, the location to take him to may be bugged.  Return him to the Arachnos transport vehicle to complete the mission.''}}

{{Ambush|There will be five waves of ambushes by the [[Paragon Police|PPD]] [[Awakened Division]] and [[Drones]] upon the capture of Dr. Franks.<br />

''"Get {{Character}}!"''}}

{{Enemy Longbow}}

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

'''Combat start:'''  ''"This ends here."''}}

'''Before combat:'''<br />

Dr. Franks:  ''"I was told {{Character}} is in the area!"''<br />

Random Longbow:  ''"Just calm down, sir. We won't let anyone get you."''<br />

'''Upon reaching exit:'''  ''"I'll do whatever you say!  Just let me live!"''}}

 

==== {{UL|Kidnap Dr. Murphy}} ====

Your next target is a [[Dr. Murphy]].  He used to work for Portal Corporation, and it is there that he acquired the expertise that we so desperately need.  Fortunately, the good doctor then defected to the [[Council]], so you will not have to go quite so far this time.  Murphy is quite close, in the Council compound on [[Sharkhead Isle]].  I trust he will be here shortly.

 

'''Unnecessary Solicitation'''

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=Dr. Murphy sounds like a sensible man.  No doubt he'll go along willingly.|Primary=Kidnap Dr. Murphy|Secondary=Lead Dr. Murphy out|Additional=|Completion=You have kidnapped Dr. Murphy.}}

 

{{Enemy Council}}