Statesman Task Force

This article contains information that no longer applies to the current version of City of Heroes Freedom. It is provided for historical purposes.

This article is about Statesman's task force before his death. For Ms. Liberty's version after Statesman's death, see Ms. Liberty Task Force.

Overview

Statesman's Task Force
100px
Contact	Statesman
Zone	Independence Port
Minimum Size	8 players
Coordinates	(-806.0, 0.6875, -5643.0)
Level Range	45-50
Merits	37
Badge	Saved the World
Enemy Groups	Arachnos Circle of Thorns Rogue Isles Villains

Statesman's Task Force (STF) is the premier Task Force in City of Heroes. The Archvillains spawn at fixed levels (52 to 54 depending on foe) regardless of team composition, so the majority of your team will need to be level 50 in order to succeed. The concluding battle against Lord Recluse and the 4 Patrons is one of the most difficult in the game (exceeded only by the Hamidon and Incarnate content).

This task force is also designated as a Signature Task Force. As such, missions will always spawn mobs at level 50 or higher, regardless of team members' levels, with the exception of some enemies.

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 37 Reward Merits.

Introductions

Underlevelled

A grave situation is brewing out in the Rogue Isles, and I'll need a team of 8 brave and powerful heroes to handle it. I don't question your bravery, but I can't risk sending out anyone below security level 45.

You must have 8 heroes on your team, all of them at least Level 45, in order to begin this Task Force.

Not Enough People

The situation in the Rogue Isles is about to explode, but if I sent you in there with less than a full team of 8 heroes, all of at least security level 45, I could be sending you to your death. If you feel that you're up to this challenge, get a team together and come talk to me.

You need at least 8 heroes on your team, all of them at least Level 45, in order to begin this Task Force.

Missions

Agree to form a task force

Briefing

We have been watching developments in the Rogue Isles with growing concern. Lord Recluse will soon complete a mysterious structure called 'The Web' on Grandville Island. We have no idea what this structure is supposed to do, only that Recluse expects it to turn the tide in his personal war against freedom. We need to delay the Web's completion, learn the Web's purpose, and foil Recluse's plans for it. If I make a move against him myself, Lord Recluse will use it as an excuse to declare war before we're ready. But a team of heroes could do what needs to be done, and put an end to Lord Recluse's mad schemes.

Mission Acceptance

I'm glad to have you all aboard. Your first mission will be to delay the Web's completion by disrupting production in the Web Fab, a factory-island near Grandville. We'll be sending you in by submarine. You'll have 2 objectives:

First, you'll need to destroy structural parts of the Web under production to help slow down construction and buy us the time we need to learn what Recluse is planning.

Secondly, your actions should be enough to draw out the Web Fab's overseer, a cunning and ruthless young Arbiter named Sands. Capturing him will throw their operation into chaos and set them back even farther. Sands is a smart character, so we may even be able to learn some information from him. Once you're done, get back to the submarine and return to Paragon City.

Task force code-names came out of the Rikti War. I didn't think they'd become a tradition. Very well. I shall call your team Task Force Boresight. Use it with pride, heroes.

Unnecessary Solicitation

needs data

Mission Objective(s)

The Rogue Isles. You can see Grandville from here, the lair of Lord Recluse himself. Your mission today is in the Web Fab, but the shrouded sight of Recluse's city of villains hovers in the back of your mind like a shadow.

• Disrupt Web Factory
  • Capture Arbiter Sands
  • 45 Web Parts to Destroy

It's time to get out of the Web Fab!

Enemies

Arachnos

Notable NPCs

• Arbiter Sands (Archvillain)

Editor's Note: Strategy: The web parts are targetable objects (metal cables) scattered around the map. They are moderately sturdy but defenseless. After clearing them, Arbiter Sands and his guards will spawn. Sands is a typical AV and should present no trouble to any team capable of completing the task force. Badge Tip: If your team has spare time, most of this Task Force's missions (except for the Thorn Tree) are great opportunities to hunt Toxic Tarantulas for the Venomous Badge.

Sands' arrival Arbiter Sands: I go to Grandville for some decent coffee and this is what happens? Well, adopt, adapt, and improve, I suppose. At least it will give me a chance to re-organize things after we clean up. Though no doubt I'll have to annihilate the persons responsible first. How bothersome.

Arbiter Sands dialogue

Combat start:
"Well, I think I've had just about enough of this."
"For Arachnos, etcetera, For Lord Recluse, etcetera, etcetera."
First blood: "I'm a busy man, so if you'd just die right now, that will be fine."
At 75% Life: "You seem to have harmed me. How importunate."
At 50% Life: "I don't recall if I've told you that you vex me."
At 25% Life: "Do you people have any idea what this is doing to my schedule?"
Defeated:
"Indeed, you are terribly vexsome."
"And I don't say that to many people."
After defeating a hero: "I don't mind telling you I took some degree of satisfaction in that."

	Web construction files
	The blueprints and data Arbiter Sands was carrying when you captured him might provide a clue to the Web's true purpose.

Debriefing

I'm glad to see you made it out. Arachnos has gone into high alert while they try to figure out what we know, and that combined with your work will slow down their production and give us the time we need. The information you found has already told us something very important. Even an initial pass shows that the Web bears all the design hallmarks of one of Arachnos's most depraved mad geniuses: Dr. Aeon. Capturing him might provide all the remaining answers we need in time to stop Lord Recluse.

You're doing well so far, Task Force Boresight, but it will only become more difficult from here on.

Capture Dr. Aeon

Briefing

The files you found in the factory prove that the Web was designed by one of Lord Recluse's pet Mad Scientist, Dr. Aeon. SERAPH scientists are trying to reverse engineer his work, but by then it might be too late. If we're going to get the answers we're looking for in time to stop Recluse, we'll need to bring in Dr. Aeon himself.

Mission Acceptance

We've developed a plan to catch Dr. Aeon by surprise in one of his own labs. We've set up a portal that will send you directly into Dr. Aeon's portal lab in Cap au Diable. Once there, you're to locate and capture Dr. Aeon, then over-ride one of his portals and return to Portal Corp. I suggest you stock up on inspirations before you leave, since you won't be able to return to Paragon City until this is over.

Unnecessary Solicitation

The only way to truly know the Web's purpose is to bring in Dr. Aeon. I know you can handle this dangerous task.

Mission Objective(s)

You enter the portal and find yourselves in Dr. Aeon's lab, somewhere in Cap au Diable. The mad doctor is here somewhere. The only question is, what nasty surprise does he have in store for you?

• Capture Dr. Aeon
  • Defeat Korol
  • Defeat Mu'Drakhan
  • Defeat Shadow Spider
  • Defeat Viridian
    • Return Home

You have all the codes needed to escape this dark future!

Enemies

Arachnos

Notable NPCs

• Regent Korol (Archvillain)
• Magus Mu'Drakhan (Archvillain)
• Shadow Spider (Archvillain)
• Viridian (Archvillain)

Dr. Aeon's exit Dr. Aeon: AAAAH! Heroes! And I don't have my combat armor! I know! I'll escape to my secret base through the portal! They'll never catch me now! I am a genius! Ah-ha-ha-ha!

Dr. Aeon's trap Dr. Aeon: Ah-ha-ha-ha! You 'Stupor-powered' fools have fallen into my brilliant trap! Allow me to explain: That portal didn't send you to a secret base, instead it sent you into the future, where my Web device has allowed Lord Recluse to conquer the world! Mwha-ha-ha! But don't worry, fools! I've made arrangements to have you captured by some of Arachnos's operatives here in the future. Like Regent Korol, Magus Mu'Drakhan, Shadow Spider, And Viridian, Each has part of the code needed to open this door: And set this portal to send you back to the present: So just sit tight and wait to be taken prisoner. And whatever you do, don't even think about fighting them! There's no way you could win, so don't even try it! I can't believe I just told them how to escape like that! Okay, just erase this recording and we'll start again. Bane Spider Executioner: Uh, sir? Dr. Aeon: What? Bane Spider Executioner: Uh... You said you wanted to transmit this, uh, live... Dr. Aeon: AAAAH! Shut it off! Shut it off!

Editor's Note: Strategy: Mow through the lab and enter Aeon's future version of Recluse's Victory. The four Archvillains are scattered around the zone with typical Arachnos guards. As with Sands, if these fights seriously challenge your team, you probably won't survive the later missions.

Regent Korol dialogue

Before combat: "I haven't eaten a hero's mind in years!"
Combat start: "I love it when they come to me!"
At 75% Life: "Aren't you a feisty one?"
At 50% Life: "Now that was uncalled for!"
At 25% Life: "You're making me very cross!"
Defeated: "This is impossible!"
After defeating a player: "I seem to remember heroes being tougher back in the old days."

Magus Mu'Drakhan dialogue

Before combat: "What pathetic rabble!"
Combat start: "You dare to challenge the sorcery of Mu? Die!"
At 75% Life: "I see you are not completely helpless."
At 50% Life: "By the power of my ancient lineage, I shall triumph!"
At 25% Life: How can you still have such strength? It's impossible!
Defeated: This cannot be!
After defeating a player: Though your life ebbs, our battle shall be recorded in the annals of Mu.

Shadow Spider dialogue dialogue

Before combat: "Looks like the targets have come to us."
Combat start: "If you get on your knees and surrender, I'll make this hurt less!"
At 75% Life: "Is this almost a threat."
At 50% Life: "It seems that Aeon undersold your prowess."
At 25% Life: "How could there be heroes with any power left?"
Defeated:
"Operations concluded..."
"unsuccessfully..." After defeating a player: "No wonder all of you heroes are dead these days."

Viridian dialogue

Before combat: "I haven't heard Hero banter in a while."
Combat start: "Resisting Arachnos is pointless. We control the world, now."
At 75% Life: "You're putting up a pretty decent fight. Interesting."
At 50% Life: "This fight's getting a little too interesting."
At 25% Life: "We've been misled! Is this a trap for you or for us?"
Defeated:
"Now I'll never find out..."
"What happens next..."
"On my favorite soap operas..." After defeating a player: One down. I'll send for a recovery team shortly.

You defeated Regent Korol, Queen of the Tarantula cyborgs, and got part of the information you'll need to get home.

	Portal Data - Korol
	You got this part of the data you'll need to get back to your own time from Regent Korol, the leader of the cybernetic Tarantula Queens of Arachnos. It contains the current date, and part of the code you'll need to open the doors to the portal chamber. According to the data, this twisted future is less than 1 year away, should Recluse activate the Web.

You defeated Magus Mu'Drakhan, lord of the Mu Mystics, and got part of the information you'll need to get home.

Portal Data 2 - Mu'Drakhan

You recovered this part of the portal data you'll need to return to your own time from Magus Mu'Drakhan, leader of Arachnos's Mu Mystics. This data includes part of the door codes, as well as precise data on the levels of magical energy in the world, vital for calibrating a time-gate. It's shocking information, detailing a world where magic is dying, along with vast numbers of peoples and cultures.

You defeated Shadow Spider, Spymaster of Arachnos, and got part of the information you'll need to get home.

	Portal Data 3 - Shadow Spider
	You recovered this part of the time portal's setting data and entry codes from Shadow Spider, Spymaster of Arachnos. Along with her part of the entry codes, her information also contained details of the labrynthine security protecting the portal. Pages of security measures, traps and counter-measures reveal the paranoid nature of Recluse's totalitarian ideal.

You defeated Viridian, Head of Arachnos Counter-Intelligence, and got part of the information you'll need to get home.

Portal Data 4 - Viridian

You recovered this data from Viridian, Arachnos's counter-intelligence expert. Along with his portion of the door codes are the precise dimensional coordinates needed to properly calibrate the time portal. They also list dozens of other dimensions that are being invaded or are about to be attacked by Arachnos. Recluse's ambitions do not stop at one world, he intends to cover the multiverse in the shadow of his megalomania. Curiously, the palmtop computer that held this information is also filled with episodes of various soap operas.

Debriefing

We had no idea that Dr. Aeon was capable of doing that. I'm just glad you came through all right. Despite the worst Dr. Aeon could throw at you, you overcame great adversity to get back here. All of your effort was not in vain. The information you took from that twisted future, as well as what Dr. Aeon let slip, may give us an opportunity to stop this yet. I've been speaking with Numina, and we've come up with a plan.

Strike the Thorn Tree

Briefing

Dr. Aeon will no doubt have other plans ready the next time you face him, but I've been talking with Numina and we've come up with a plan to neutralize any surprise he may have in store. Numina's told me about a living nexus of mystical power beneath Thorn Island in the Nerva Archipelago. It's called the Thorn Tree, and apparently villains often attack it, using the mystical power it gathers to re-make themselves. Numina tells me that the power contained in the heart of the thorn tree, in something called the Nexus of Thorns, should be enough to shut Dr. Aeon's defenses down, allowing you to capture him. This won't be easy, but if anyone has a chance, it will be you.

Mission Acceptance

According to Numina, in order to reach the Nexus of Thorns, you'll first have to weaken the tree itself. Once you are in its chamber, first destroy all the vines. You'll have to work quickly, because they'll regrow if you let them.

Once that's done, the outer layer of the tree will be vulnerable. Attack it, and destroy it to reveal the nexus of thorns.

Then, touch the Nexus of Thorns, and you should be able to gather its power.

Good luck, heroes.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Remember, first clear out the vines in the Thorn Tree's chamber. Next, break through the outer layer of the tree itself. Finally, you'll only have to touch the Nexus of Thorns to take the power you'll need to defeat Dr. Aeon.

Mission Objective(s)

The Tree of Thorns is buried deeply in here, somewhere. Its power may be the only thing that can capture Dr. Aeon!

• Take the Nexus of Thorns
  • Vines to destroy: 88
  • Breach Thorn Tree
  • Take Nexus of Thorns

You have taken the power of the Nexus of Thorns!

Enemies

Circle of Thorns
Rogue Isles Villains

Notable NPCs

• Bad Penny (Boss)
• Comrade (Boss)
• Contemptress (Boss)
• Dark Sabaoth (Boss)
• Dr. Eva Lone (Boss)
• Misadventure (Boss)
• Pyrelord (Boss)
• Sardonic (Boss)
• Thorn Tree (Archvillain)

Editor's Note: Strategy: Refer to the Tree of Thorns Respecification Trial for details, since this whole mission is taken from there. Get through the exterior zone to the entrance door by whatever means; Stealth & Recall Friend are good options here. Do the same to get through the tunnels to the Thorn Tree chamber. Then: Defeat all Circle of Thorns enemies around the perimeter Defeat 88 vines quickly (they regrow) Defeat the Thorn Tree in the center Before fighting the Tree, it's a good idea to decide who on the team will click the glowie and get the power. Preferably it should be a reliable player with low lag. S/he must use this power later on Dr. Aeon. After defeating the Tree, one team member must touch the Nexus of Thorns to end the mission and gain the temporary Power of the Thorn

Power of the Thorn Ranged, Special The Power of the Thorn Tree has many uses. Villains use the stolen energy to re-shape their powers, but it could also be used to breach Dr. Aeon's defenses. However, the power is unstable, and you'll only have 5 hours before it dissipates.

Rogue Isles Villains dialogue

Death Mage: "Can we never get any peace around here?"
Dr. Eva Lone: "Curse that Demon! I think this is the right way."
Sardonic: "Uh-huh?"
Dr. Eva Lone: "This is my mission! What are you doing here?"
Sardonic: "N00b!"
Contemptress: "Every one of you is an idiot!"
Misadventure: "Hold on. Gotta kill some weirdos. I'll call you back."
Comrade: "The only thing I like better than American rock-and-roll is killing heroes!"
Bad Penny: "TAILS AGAIN! I CAN'T STAND IT ANYMORE!"
Pyrelord: "Did you know that I like fire?"
Dark Sabaoth: "From the heart of darkness, I stab at thee!"
Dr. Eva Lone: "Sure."
Sardonic: "Have you ever done this before?"
Dr. Eva Lone: "Really! Plenty of times!"
Sardonic: "Ha! Right!"
Dr. Eva Lone: "These ruins aren't easy to navigate!"
Sardonic: "Then how come you're lost?"
Dr. Eva Lone: "The maps are incomplete!"
Sardonic: "That's why I'm downloading a map from the internet right now."
Sardonic: "Just let me be the leader already."
Dr. Eva Lone: "Never!"
Dr. Eva Lone: "This is my mission and I formed this team!"
Sardonic: "I'm blogging how much you suck right now."
Dr. Eva Lone: "..."
Dr. Eva Lone: "If you're so good, how about you take point to draw agro when we get to the tree?"
Sardonic: "Uhhh..."

Debriefing

Once more you've done the impossible, heroes. SERAPH scientists are close to understanding what the Web was designed to do, but only Dr. Aeon fully comprehends its design. You have to bring him in, and with the power from the Thorn Tree, he won't be able to escape justice this time.

You've fought bravely, and done great honor to the name Task Force Boresight, but the battle isn't over, and the most difficult part is still to come.

Capture Dr. Aeon

Briefing

It's time to bring in Dr. Aeon. Arachnos has harbored this madman for too long, and now we have a way to make sure he cannot escape. This won't be easy. Arachnos knows why we want Aeon, and after the first attempt to bring him to justice, they've kept him under tight security. The fate of the world may depend on the capture of Doctor Aeon, and I know that if anyone can do this, it's Task Force Boresight!

Mission Acceptance

We'll be sending you into Cap au Diable by submarine. Once there, you'll first have to find and defeat the Bane Spider in charge of security. There will no doubt be numerous decoys, all of which could call for re-enforcements, so it won't be easy.

Once you have his codes, you can enter the Aeon Corp tower. Arachnos has sent four of their most powerful supervillains to protect Dr. Aeon:

The Wretch - Ghost Widow's misshapen bodyguard.
Ice Mistral - Scirocco's twisted pupil.
Silver Mantis - Assassin, and Black Scorpion's lover.
And Barracuda - Brutal henchwoman of 'Captain' Mako.

Each one is a serious threat, and you'll have to defeat all of them before you'll be able to confront Dr. Aeon himself.

Dr. Aeon is rumored to have some kind of incredibly powerful force-field. Use the power of the Thorn Tree to bring it down, and to keep him from escaping. Good luck, heroes. The world is counting on your actions today.

Unnecessary Solicitation

needs data

Mission Objective(s)

Arachnos lets Dr. Aeon run the island of Cap au Diable, and he can often be found here in his personal laboratory within the Aeon Corporation building.

• Capture Dr. Aeon
  • Find Real Security Chief
  • Defeat Wretch
  • Defeat Silver Mantis
  • Defeat Barracuda
  • Defeat Ice Mistral
  • Capture Dr. Aeon

You have captured Dr. Aeon.

Enemies

Arachnos

Notable NPCs

• Security Chief? x ? (Arachnos Bane Spider Executioner (Boss)
• Wretch (Archvillain)
• Silver Mantis (Archvillain)
• Barracuda (Archvillain)
• Ice Mistral (Archvillain)
• Dr. Aeon (Archvillain)
• Dr. Aeon x ? (Elite Boss)

Editor's Note: Strategy: Work through the exterior zone to find the chief, work through the four AVs to get their keys, you should know the drill by now. Dr. Aeon's temporal clones pack a wallop, and Aeon periodically respawns any that have been defeated. Mitigate their attacks if possible, but use the Power of the Thorn and focus on taking down the real Aeon. Alternately, you could lure a few of the clones to another room and they might not find their way back. This tactic may require the bait character to die and have their body teleported out.

Security Chief? (false) dialogue

Before combat: "We shall not betray Lord Recluse with failure!"
Combat start:
"Die, Heroes!"
"Death to all who defy Arachnos!"
At 50% Life: "Calling for back-up!"
Defeated:
"Fools!"
"By distracting you, I have..."
"Served my purpose..."
"Hail Lord Recluse..!"

Ambush! At 50% life, a Security Chief? will call for an ambush squad. Two will appear, one after the other. Bane Spider Executioner: "Responding to security breach!"

Security Chief? (true) dialogue

Before combat: "We shall not betray Lord Recluse with failure!"
Combat start:
"Die, Heroes!"
"Death to all who defy Arachnos!"
At 50% Life: "Calling for back-up!"
Defeated:
"You may have the key..."
"But all it will gain you..."
"Is a swifter death."

Wretch dialogue

Before combat: "Widow says guard Aeon, I guard Aeon for Widow."
Combat start: "Widow says you bad for 'Rachnos! Bad for 'Rachnos means bad for Ghost Widow!"
First blood: "Wretch Crush!"
At 75% Life: "All heroes die!"
At 50% Life: "Wretch ANGRY!"
At 25% Life:
"Wretch hurt."
"NO ONE HURT WRETCH AGAIN!"
Defeated:
"Wretch..."
"sleep..."
"now..."
After defeating a player: "You die, Widow is happy."

Silver Mantis dialogue

Before combat: "Scorpion is going to owe me a lot for babysitting this nerd."
Combat start: "C'mon, Heroes. I'll take you all at once!"
First blood: "Oooh! I'm REALLY going to enjoy killing you."
At 75% Life: "Mmmmm! You hurt me so good!"
At 50% Life: "The pain! The anger! Yes! You really know how to treat a girl!"
At 25% Life: "Oh yes! OH YES! This is a battle!"
Defeated:
"That's it..."
"I'm spent"
"Take the code, you earned it."
After defeating a player: "Done already? I hoped you'd last...longer."

Barracuda dialogue

Before combat: "I don't see the point of this. Aeon's perfectly safe inside his force-field."
Combat start: "Let's get this over with."
First blood: "Just die!"
At 75% Life: "Just stop living already!"
At 50% Life: "You stupid idiots! I hate all of you!"
At 25% Life: "Why couldn't you all just die?"
Defeated: "I never wanted to do this anyway."
After defeating a player: "This isn't personal. I really don't care about any of this."

Ice Mistral dialogue

Before combat:
"How long do we have to be here?"
"Bored, bored, bored!"
"Who does Scirocco think he is, making me do this?"
Combat start: "Heroes! Just the thing to prove my true value to Scirocco!"
First blood:
"Feel the chill fury of the Ice Mistral!"
"That's my new catch-phrase. Isn't it cool?"
At 75% Life: "Hey, I felt that! You jerks! You're just supposed to die!"
At 50% Life: "How can I prove myself if you idiots don't let me kill you?!"
At 25% Life: "I'm better than this! I'm better than any of you!"
Defeated:
"How could I have lost...
"to the likes..."
"of you...?"
After defeating a player: needs data

Dr Aeon dialogue

Before combat: "If knowledge is power, then I am the king of the world!"
Combat start:
"Heroes! In my inner sanctum? This is inconceivable!
"Fortunately, I have my impenetrable force-field to make me invincible!"
"Engaging temporal displacement device!"
At 75% Life: "My force-field was scientifically perfect! How can this be happening?"
At 50% Life: "You, heroes, with your primitive minds! You're stupid! Stupid!"
At 25% Life: "I took all variables into account! This is inconceivable!"
Defeated:
"It doesn't matter..."
"You'll never have a chance against Recluse."
Activating his Personal Force Field: "Engaging temporal displacement device!"
After defeating a player: (randomised sentence)
"In Layman's terms, you have just been pwned by science!"
"Based on empirical evidence, I conclude that you suck!
"If I were your professor, I'd give you an 'F' for effort!"
"Ha! I hypothesize that you have just been 'Aeonnihilated'!"

This was the real security Chief, and now you have access to the AeonCorp building.

	Exterior entry code
	This code will allow you to enter the main building and reach Dr. Aeon's Lab.

Wretch had part of the code to Dr. Aeon's lab on him.

	The 1st Lab Code - Wretch
	You got this part of the code to enter Dr. Aeon's Lab from the Wretch, Ghost Widow's mutated bodyguard. There is a short note stuck to it. It reads: 'Protect Dr. Aeon, my Wretch, but watch him too. He promises Lord Recluse great power, but I fear he is loyal only to himself and his own scientific madness.' The note is not signed, but sealed with a black kiss.

Silver Mantis had part of the code to Dr. Aeon's lab on her.

	The 2nd Lab Code - Silver Mantis
	You got this part of the code to enter Dr. Aeon's Lab from Silver Mantis, Arachnos's top assassin and the rumored lover of Black Scorpion. Along with her part of the code, you also found a great deal of technical data stolen from the Aeon Corp mainframe. Looks like she had been doing a bit of extra industrial espionage work for Black Scorpion on the side.

Barracuda had part of the code to Dr. Aeon's lab on her.

	The 3rd Lab Code - Barracuda
	You got this part of the code to enter Dr. Aeon's Lab from Barracuda, Captain Mako's protege. You can barely make out the codes on the paper, because it's covered with strange drawings of what look like enormous shark teeth and a gigantic eye.

Ice Mistral had part of the code to Dr. Aeon's lab on her.

	The 4th Lab Code - Ice Mistral
	You got this part of the code to enter Dr. Aeon's Lab from Ice Mistral, the young villainess Scirocco has been training. The code was tucked into a thick fashion magazine she had been reading. A quick flip through the magazine shows that she'd tried all the perfume samples, and had been scratching out the faces of all the female models.

You have defeated Dr. Aeon!

The Secret of the Web

'What does the web do?' Dr. Aeon sneers as you push him through the portal. 'It is my ultimate triumph. I doubt you could comprehend it, but I'll use small words to help you. It uses science and magic together, Techno-magic, if you will, to drain super human powers. You heard me right! It drains super-powers, but instead of simply making them go away like the clumsy spells of the Mu, it transfers them. YES! They said it couldn't be done, but they also said it was foolish to tap a bound demon to power a city, but I did it! I did it! The Web then transfers those stolen energies into a specific individual. Oh, you'll have quite a time stopping Recluse's plans, once he controls the power of every meta-human on Earth! And all because of my meta-human scientific genius! Ah-HAH-HAH-HAH-HAH-WAAAit a second! If he gets every meta-human ability... Then he'd get my... I'd be just.. Uh-oh! You've got to stop him!

Debriefing

Dr. Aeon is in Longbow custody. While all the nations with a claim on him for numerous crimes against humanity, he's been all too eager to tell us what he's done. It's worse than anything we could have predicted. And I, in particular, am powerless against it!

Stop Lord Recluse!

Briefing

Dr. Aeon's boasting has finally revealed the purpose of the Web. It's a technomagical construct design to draw in a wide variety of super-human powers, then transmit that power to one individual: Lord Recluse! If our figures are correct, it could transfer nearly all the power of every super-man in the world directly to Lord Recluse within 24 hours. If Recluse is able to activate the Web, it will be the end of freedom in our world, and possibly, in our universe. Recluse must be stopped.

Mission Acceptance

Our analysis has given us a glimmer of hope. First, in order to preserve his own troops and protect himself from the device, Recluse has set a safe area around Grandville Island. Secondly, while he's tuned the device to always affect certain heroes, including myself and every member of the Freedom Phalanx and the Vindicators, none of you were on that target list. This means that while none of us can approach Grandville without giving Recluse even more power, Arachnos activity outside of the Rogue Isles will be cut to nearly nothing once the Web activates. And if we can get you inside the radius before then, there just might be a chance to stop him.

Your goal is to bring Recluse to battle before the Web is fully activated. Defeat his soldiers, and most importantly his captains to bring him out. If he does activate the Web, try to destroy his interface with it, and then defeat him. The feedback should render the Web itself useless, but it will not be easy.

Good luck, Task Force Boresight. The world is depending on you.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I'm feeling weaker already, but there's no time to fret about that. Your goal is to bring Recluse to battle before the Web is fully activated. Defeat his soldiers, and most importantly his captains to bring him out. If he does activate the Web, try to destroy his interface with it, and then defeat him. The feedback should render the Web itself useless, but it will not be easy. Good luck, Task Force Justice. The world is depending on you.

Mission Objective(s)

The Helicopter lands on the deck of a Longbow ship that's fought its way here. Before you stands Grandville, the lair of Lord Recluse.

• Stop Lord Recluse!
  • Defeat Recluse's Inner Circle!
  • Defeat Lord Recluse

With Recluse's defeat, the power of the Web begins to burn itself out. The threat is passed, and the day has been saved!

Enemies

Arachnos

Notable NPCs

• Ghost Widow (Archvillain, level 54)
• Scirocco (Archvillain, level 54)
• Black Scorpion (Archvillain, level 54)
• Captain Mako (Archvillain, level 54)
• Arachnos Flyer (Giant Monster)
• Lord Recluse (Archvillain, level 54)
• Power Transfer Tower x4 (Object)
• Arachnos Repairman (Underlings, level 45)

Editor's Note: Patrons Strategy: As you probably know, fighting the 4 Patrons, a Giant Monster, and then the hardest Archvillain in the game is no easy task. Unless you are attempting the Master of Statesman's Task Force Badge, bring along as many Temporary Powers (like Shivans) as you can. Before engaging the Patrons, you should clear one of the sides of mobs, so people coming back from the hospital have a clear path. The Patrons are seriously powerful AVs; each of them is capable of hitting for well over 1000 damage in a single attack. The very best teams might be able to take on two of them together, but pulling them away one at a time is strongly recommended. If more than one are aggroed, a quick retreat to the hospital is the best way to avoid disaster, as they will not enter the hospital. It is important for all team members to retreat as soon as anyone yells run. Ghost Widow - She has three means to healing herself on top of a high regeneration rate. The first is a minor PBAoE heal which can be overcome. The other two heals are ranged targeted heals that she will attempt to use on the person with aggro, but the range is fairly short on both. Have a tanker taunt her from range and attempt to keep away from her as best as they can staying at the maximum range of their taunt ability. Using hover or fly will not work since she also can fly. The second thing to watch out for with Ghost Widow is her hold which will break any tanker's normal mez protection. Stack as many buffs like Increased Density, Clear Mind, and Clarity as you can on the tanker, so it will prevent them from being held. [Note: Her Strongest hold is Mag 100] Scirocco - He has some very nasty AoE attacks, so try to point his attacks away from anyone else in the group not trying to draw aggro. The best method is to corner pull him and have the tanker keep their back to a wall with Scirocco facing the wall and everyone else attacking from behind. Black Scorpion - He is the most straightforward, but is a heavy hitter. Captain Mako - Pound him down as much as you can. At low health he will hit Elude, which has no obvious effect. When you notice all your attacks being Avoided, shout out for your team to hit the Insights and Geas of the Kind Ones if they have it.

Patrons dialogue

Before combat:
Ghost Widow: "Do we all stand ready to protect Lord Recluse?"
Scirocco: "It is odd, but this is the first time, in a long time, that we've all been united like this."
Black Scorpion: "Yeah, whatever."
Cap'n Mako: "I just wanna kill people."
Combat start:
Ghost Widow: "Lord Recluse does not appreciate this intrusion."
Scirocco: "The time for talk is over. Let battle rage!"
Black Scorpion: "Who wants some?"
Cap'n Mako: "Blood!"

You have defeated Recluse's Inner Circle!

Diplomat You have won a victory on foreign soil, defeating all of Lord Recluse's minions.

• Arachnos Flier (optional) - It takes a while to bring down, but just keep your cool and keep hitting it. Watch out for the spawning Bane Spiders and have a couple team members break off to get rid of them. Don't forget that the Flier will respawn every twenty minutes.

Bug! The Arachnos Flier awards 2 merits upon defeat (as a Giant Monster). This is not intended behavior.

Heat Seeker You have successfully brought down one of Lord Recluses' fliers. Lord Recluse is amused.

The Web activated! Lord Recluse: I see that my minions have fallen. Unfortunate, but meaningless. They have served their purpose and delayed you long enough... For the Web to become fully active! Now, even the mighty Statesman will bow down before me! Bow down before my POWER! You heroes will not save the world this day. You shall merely be the first sacrifices on this, the altar of my victory!

Lord Recluse dialogue

Before combat: "Death comes for you, worm."
Combat start: "Die in agony!"
At 75% Life: "You're almost a challenge. Almost."
At 50% Life: "Stand still and DIE!"
At 25% Life: "I will not be defeated in my hour of triumph!"
Defeated:
"This..."
"Is..."
"Impossible..."
After defeating a player: (randomised sentence)
"Failure suits you, hero."
"You'll save nothing hero."
"This is Paragon's finest? Pathetic."
"I am GOD!"

Editor's Note: Lord Recluse Strategy: Lord Recluse - read and remember his power profile. After the Patrons are defeated, he will spawn at the back of the map along with his 4 towers listed below. All the items listed as "hardcapped at" are over the limit so that when players debuff Lord Recluse while the towers are still up, he is still at or near the cap. A common strategy is to have a Tank (supported by a buffer) pull him away from the towers while everyone else attacks the towers one by one. One recommended order is Red, Blue, Orange, Green (NE, SE, SW, NW) to help the Tank survive the punishment. An offense oriented order is Orange, Green, Red (SW, NW, NE), optionally phasing the red instead of destroying it, and ignoring the blue, to help the tank establish aggro by lowering Lord Recluse's defense, then getting rid of his regeneration and damage resistance. Having someone who has a toggle power which can be applied on Recluse will interrupt his ability to summon Bane Spiders. Beware! After a tower gets below half health, Arachnos Repairmen come to heal the tower. Though they con grey at level 45 and are Underlings, and thus, can be knocked out quickly, a couple seconds can give the tower most of it's health back. So if you see one, drop off of killing the tower and kill the repairmen quickly. Furthermore, the Arachnos Flier may come over and send down Bane Spiders! Don't get swamped. After all 4 towers are down, the team can finally focus on Recluse himself. If you have all 3 Warburg Temps, do Biological Mutagen, Chemical Burn, then Nuclear Blast. Summon Longbow Mechs, Shivans, Vanguard Heavies, Amy, and anything else you can summon. Just keep hitting him with everything you've got, and put that villain down for the last time!

Color	Position	Power	Power Effects
Red	NE of Recluse	Power Generator Real	Status Effect Bonus(Knockback, Disorient), +105% DMG(Smashing, Lethal, Energy), +105% Res(Smashing, Lethal, Energy) (hardcapped at 100%)
Orange	SW of Recluse	Dispersion Bubble Real	+200% DEF(All) (hardcapped at 175%), +17.7 Protection(Hold, Immobilize, Disorient)
Green	NW of Recluse	Healing Pulse	Healing, +MaxHP (hardcapped at 150% or 46015.73 hp), +2000% Regen
Blue	SE of Recluse	Temporal Manipulator	+30% ToHit, +1000% Recharge (hardcapped at 400%), +200% Run Speed

You've done it! You have defeated Lord Recluse!

Peerless You have taken down Lord Recluse himself, something few others have been able to accomplish. One only hopes there is a prison strong enough to contain him.

Debriefing

Recluse is defeated, and his plans are in ruins. Honestly, I wish I had been the one to do it, but... that's pride talking.

No, this is your day, this is your moment to shine! Look over this great city, and see what you have done today! Every person who lives in freedom from this day forward owes that freedom to your valor, your determination, and your heroism. Recluse may yet return, but you have shown the people of the world that they need no longer live in fear of his name. For when evil arises, it shall be confronted and defeated by the champions of this City of Heroes!

Saved the World After defeating Lord Recluse's plan to steal the powers of all the heroes on the planet, you have been recognized as a true world savior.

Master of Statesman's Task Force

If you successfully complete the Statesman Task Force with challenge settings of zero defeats (no one on the team can be defeated throughout the entire task force) and no Temporary Powers (other than the Power of the Thorn power a player obtains), you will receive the following achievement badge.

Master of Statesman's Task Force You have proven yourself Master of Ms. Liberty's Task Force.

Souvenir

The Helm of Recluse

Though battered from the mighty battle where you faced it's owner, none can deny that this is the helmet of Lord Recluse himself, master of Arachnos and the Regent of the Rogue Isles. But even he couldn't stop you and your team when you faced him at the pulse-pounding culmination of Statesman's Task Force.

It all started when you learned that Statesman himself needed your help. It seems that Lord Recluse was close to completing the mysterious device known as 'The Web' on Grandville Island, and while no one knew it's true purpose, rumors were flying that Lord Recluse believed it would somehow make him the master of the world. You traveled to the Web Fab factory just outside of Grandville, where you gathered vital data and did enough damage to slow down the Web's completion.

The files you found revealed that the Web had been designed by Dr. Aeon, a Mad Scientist in Recluse's employ. You tried to use a portal to capture him in his base, but the wily scientist tricked you, hurtling you to a future where Recluse was triumphant and the world was under Arachnos control! You barely escaped by over-riding another portal, but the chilling message was there: If Recluse wins out, it could be the end of freedom in the world.

On Numina's advice, you sought a way to keep Dr. Aeon from using any more tricks to elude capture. To do that, you had to travel to Thorn Island, where the Circle of Thorns were feeding mystic energy to a great Tree of Thorns for their own dire purposes. You disrupted their plans and captured the energy of the tree for your own, to use against Dr. Aeon when the time came.

With the power of the Thorn Tree, you went to Cap au Diable to bring the mad doctor to justice. After fighting your way through the lieutenants of each member of Lord Recluse's inner circle, you confronted Dr. Aeon and his time duplicates. While you were able to catch Aeon this time, he revealed the true purpose of the Web: It was designed to siphon the powers of every other metahuman on Earth into Lord Recluse, rendering him invincible!

With the Freedom Phalanx paralyzed as the first targets of the Web, Statesman had to send you to take on Lord Recluse yourselves. And that you did. Legends will be told about the battle that day, as the very foundations of Grandville trembled beneath the mighty forces unleashed in the final battle. But when you hold this helmet, you know what those legends will say. That in the darkest hour this world has ever known, Heroes stood strong and cast that darkness back. And they will always stand ready to do so.

Rewards

In addition to the usual Task Force reward options, Statesman's Task Force offers Synthetic Hamidon Origin Enhancements and Essence of the Incarnate. Since Statesman's Task Force takes one half the time and one sixth the number of players as a Hamidon Raid, it has become the preferred method of gaining HOs on many servers.

See Also

• STF Guide at CoHVault