Bobby Curtin

Overview

Bobby Curtin
Bouncer
Zone	Nerva Archipelago
Coordinates	(-75, 16.5, 6105)
Level Range	25-29
Introduced By	none
Enemy Groups	Security Guards Paragon Police Department Council Civic Squad Warriors Circle of Thorns Tsoo Legacy Chain Paragon Heroes
Badges	Diamond in the Rough

Bobby Curtin is a rogue contact in the Crimson Cove neighborhood of Nerva Archipelago at coordinates (-75, 16.5, 6105) . His level range is 25-29. He is in front of the White Elephant building, approximately 215 yards NNW of the Science quartermaster. He offers a story arc to characters of the Rogue alignment. He was first introduced in Issue 26 - Page 3.

Introductions

Contact Introduced By

None. Bobby Curtin is available through the Find Contact Window or interacting directly with him.

Information

Bouncer

Bobby Curtin is a bouncer at the White Elephant in Crimson Cove, a private establishment which prides itself on being 'neutral ground' between the many warring factions in Nerva. Bobby is known by frequent patrons for being willing to step in and break up fights between anyone, be they Longbow, Arachnos, or mortal manifestation of an ancient god.

Too Low Level

Yo, buddy, what's someone like you doing in a place like this? You might wanna get up to Threat Level 25 before you start hanging around these parts.

Initial Contact

Character! Heard a bit about you across the Isles. Hear you're pretty alright, that you've got an appreciation for some of the things that a lot of other people around these parts lack. We could use more of your type around here.

Now pardon me if I'm talking out my prettier side here, but I hear you're the type who don't mind making money in some unorthodox ways. I've got a pretty spicy tip on something you might be interested in. If you're willing to cut me in, of course.

Greeting

• Hey, Character, how's it going? You ready to make a little scratch?

Too Busy

Whoa, hey, slow down Character! I appreciate the enthusiasm, but you really gotta finish some of your current work before you take on anything else.

No More Missions

Afraid that was all I knew about, buddy. We had a wild ride and hey, I guess it all turned out OK, didn't it? I'm sure you're going places, places much higher than I can get you.

Story Arc

Gone in a Flash

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 20 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

Editor's Note:

There are many different versions of the souvenir from this story arc, with (at least?) three different possible names, depending on your choices during the arc. You can have multiple souvenirs from this arc with different names, and possibly different ones with the same name - TBD.

If you took the diamond from Arc Flash by force, or decided to sell it for her and split the money:

The Florentine Diamond

This light yellow diamond, worth more than most people will see in their lifetime, is a glorious reminder of the heist you remember as...

If you let Arc Flash keep the diamond:

A Sense Of... Charity

One of your adventures did not lead to material gains. Instead, you balanced the scales of your soul somewhat, in the heist you remember as...

If you convinced Arc Flash to trade you her bracers for the diamond:

The Bracers of Astrape

These ancient golden bracers are etched with intricate runes in ancient Greek, reminding you of the woman who once wore them and the heist you remember as...

Gone in a Flash

You learned about the Florentine Diamond from Bobby Curtin, a bouncer at the White Elephant in Nerva Archipelago. His cousin was a security guard at a vault where the diamond, long thought lost, was being held until it could be auctioned off. With promises of a cut for them if they shut off the alarm, you broke in to steal the diamond. Unfortunately, you found that someone had beaten you to the punch!

Frustrated, but unwilling to let the prize go, you agreed to free the Miller, a well-connected fence, from the Paragon Police in exchange for any information he could find. You struck while the police were distracted by the Council. The Miller didn't know anything at the time, but agreed to keep his ear to the ground for information.

If you got the auctioneer to talk without using violence:

Upon returning to the Isles, you learned that the vault owners suspected the auctioneer of being involved in the theft. You got to him first and managed to convince him to tell you what he knew. He did help the thief, but didn't know who she was. All he had was a name she mentioned, Amphitryon. A little deduction revealed that he was a member of the Warriors.

You had to resort to violence to get through the Warriors and get Amphitryon to start talking. He didn't give you much, just the name 'Bronte'.

If you chose not to kill Amphitryon:

To his credit, he refused to let any more slip.

If you killed Amphitryon:

He refused to let more slip, so you finished him off.

It didn't matter, though, the Miller contacted you to let you know that a woman named 'Bronte' had attempted to sell a gemstone to 'Rancid' Armstrong, an underboss with the Family. You went to Armstrong, who was all too willing to talk. He told you that one of his men had recognized the seller as Arc Flash, a hero from Paragon City who was working with the Legacy Chain.

If you used violence to get the auctioneer to talk:

Upon returning to the Isles, you learned that the vault owners suspected the auctioneer of being involved in the theft. You got to him first and beat the information out of him. He claimed to have been cursed by a Circle of Thorns mage, forcing him to help steal the apparently magical diamond.

You stormed the ruins beneath Crimson Cove only to learn that you'd been duped; the Circle had no interest in the 'mundane' diamond. It didn't matter, though, the Miller contacted you to let you know that someone had tried to sell the diamond to a local high-ranking member of the Tsoo, Kue Xob. You had to fight through Xob's students before he would talk to you. To stop further violence, he told you that one of his men had recognized the seller as Arc Flash, a hero from Paragon City who was working with the Legacy Chain.

You attacked a Legacy Chain safehouse in Nerva to draw Arc Flash out. After you took her down, she begged you to let her go with the diamond. Her mother was sick, she told you, and she needed to sell the diamond to pay for the treatment. It was quite the sob story. You had the choice to take it from her, split the profit from the diamond, or make a trade.

If you attacked Arc Flash to take the diamond:

+++ Missing Information +++

If you let Arc Flash go with the diamond:

You decided to let her go. She'll find a buyer for the diamond eventually and maybe her mother will get better. You were left empty handed, but maybe it will all be worth it in the end.

If you decided to sell the diamond and split the profit with Arc Flash:

In the end, you offered to sell the diamond and split the profit. She agreed and sent you off with it. The Miller will be searching for a buyer, but until then you're holding onto the diamond.

If you tried to trade the diamond for Arc Flash's bracers, and didn't kill Amphitryon:

You convinced her to trade her magical bracers for the diamond. She refused and attacked you. Naturally you beat her back, then took her bracers before the mediporter whisked her off. Arc Flash still had the diamond, but you can put the bracers to your own ends and you've eliminated a hero from possibly foiling you in the future. The Miller will be searching for a buyer, but until then you're holding onto the bracers.

If you tried to trade the diamond for Arc Flash's bracers, but you killed Amphitryon:

You tried to be generous and make a deal with her, but she refused! Turns out the Warrior you offed was her brother. Seeking revenge, she redoubled her efforts to beat you and unleashed the full power of her magic bracers. It was all for naught, of course. You beat her then took the Florentine Diamond. The Miller will be searching for a buyer, but until then you're holding onto the diamond.

Part One: Diamond in the Rough

Briefing

The man sticks his hand out to you, waiting for you to shake it.

Of course, where are my manners, huh? I know about you, you probably ain't heard of me. The name's Bobby Curtin. I'm no one important, just a guy trying to make his bread here in the Isles. But hey, you know, a guy hears a few things in the Isles too and sometimes he meets the right person to share those things with.

He looks around and leans in with a conspiratorial whisper.

My cousin, Willy, he's a security guard for the Euphorium. That's a jewelry store here in Crimson Cove. He tells me they just got in a big shipment, under pretty heavy guard. Supposed to be a pretty pricey piece of ice. If you agree to give us a small cut, no more than 10%, Willy will turn off the alarms so you can go in and grab it. An easy payday for all of us, right?

• Easy money? Sign me up.

Bobby smiles and nods his head enthusiastically.

Yeah, yeah. I knew you'd be in for it!

So you heard of Florentine Diamond? I didn't, but I did some research. It's over 500 years old and was stolen back in the early 1900s.

Guess someone decided it's finally time to sell it. Probably the grandkids of the original thief or something. Coming to auction it off in the Isles, so they're holding it in the Euphorium's vault until auction day.

All you gotta do is go in, grab the gem, and get out. Shouldn't take no time at all.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Hey, no time to wait, huh? If you take too long, the diamond's gonna be sold and you won't be the seller!

Mission Objective(s)

Just as promised, you waltz right into the jewelry store without a single alarm going off. There's still security around, though. Hope Willy isn't with them.

• Steal the Florentine Diamond
  • 3 crates to search

As you sneak out of the store, you hear alarms going off inside. Guess they got them turned back on.

Enemies

Security Guards

Security Guards Dialogue

Private Security Guard: Did you hear something?

---

Before Combat:
Private Security Guard: How could anyone have gotten in without us noticing?
Private Security Guard: Don't know, but at least they just knocked our guys unconscious.
Combat Start:
Private Security Guard: The villain is back to finish us off!
Private Security Guard: Call reinforcements!

---

Private Security Guard: They're in the vault again!

Fake Diamond

This amateur replica of the Florentine diamond is clearly made of glass. It wouldn't fool even the most untrained eye. Whoever stole the real diamond must not have expected anyone to check for a while.

Debriefing

Ah, you're playing with me, right Character? Cause no one would be taken in by that thing. Looks like something that came out of a supermarket vending machine. Where's the real diamond?

You explain what you found in the vault and Bobby frowns and runs a hand through his hair.

Look, you can see as much as me that this wouldn't fool any buyers. Someone obviously got to the vault before you and stole our diamond! All that work, for nothing.

Part Two: Fidelio

Briefing

Alright, Character, it's pretty obvious that someone hit the vault before you could. That couldn't happen without someone here in the Isles knowing about it. After all, you steal something like that, you're gonna have to offload it eventually. There's a guy who comes into the White Elephant sometimes, name's the Miller. A big time international fence; if someone's trying to move something big in the black market, he's the guy to talk to.

Bobby suddenly looks like he has a bad case of indigestion.

Only problem is, he got pinched by some heroes a few days ago. Got extradited to Paragon City. Maybe you go break him out, find out what he knows?

• If it helps find out who upstaged me...

If anyone can help, the Miller can. Word is, he's being transported to the Zig along with some other high profile prisoners. Now, normally, I don't share gossip from the job. Professional courtesy and all. But in this case, I don't think they'll mind. A few of the Council were talking about one of their bigwigs who's in the same convoy. I'm sure they're hitting it, which will give you a perfect opportunity to grab the Miller. They won't be expecting you to come, so they might not be friendly... but if you help get their guy out first, I'm sure they'll change their tune.

Unnecessary Solicitation

We don't wanna waste this chance, Character. No telling how long the Council will keep that convoy busy.

Mission Objective(s)

You arrive in Independence Port, where the Council are currently engaged in running combat with the PPD.

• Free the Miller
  • Find the Miller
  • Talk to the Miller
  • Escort Maestro

You've freed the Miller, but he doesn't know anything... yet. Get him back to the Isles and he might find something for you.

Enemies

Paragon Police Department

Council

Notable NPCs

• Maestro (Boss)
• Electrixie (Boss)
• Decibelle (Boss)
• The Miller

The Miller after his rescue

Editor's Note:

Rescuing Maestro is optional. If he is rescued, all Council units on the map will turn friendly. However, if Maestro falls in battle before reaching the drop-off point, Council mobs will become hostile again.

Maestro Dialogue

Before Combat:
SWAT Officer: The prisoner is secured, hold the perimeter!
Maestro: You are fools to think the Council would not secure my release!
Electrixie: At least he's not making any more music puns.
Combat Start:
SWAT Officer: We are pinned down! We need reinforcements!
Maestro: Ah, a villain? Did my compatriots hire you to assist in my rescue?
Electrixie: Character? Shocked to see a hero on duty?
Upon Rescue:
Maestro: Character, was it? You will surely be rewarded for your assistance.
Approaching Drop-off Point:
Ascendant Archon: Hold your fire. Maestro has been acquired.
Upon Drop-off:
Maestro: I shall sing your praises to the Council, Character.
Ascendant Archon: Maestro safely extracted. Our troops shall stay behind to assist.
Upon Maestro's Defeat:
Ascendant Archon: Maestro is down! Attack that villain!

Decibelle Dialogue

Before Combat:
Decibelle: I'm not going to let those villains get away!
Combat Start:
Decibelle: Stop right there, villainous scum!
Upon Defeat:
Decibelle: Can't let... Character... escape...
The Miller: Ahhh. Much better.

The Miller

Briefing

With the sonic barrier now dropped, the Miller tugs at the edges of his outfit.

I'd much rather be with you than the police. That barrier was simply atrocious. They said it was for "my protection", the gall of it. Though truly, I'd rather stay away from the firefight between the police and those fascist brutes.

Now, to what do I owe the fortune of my freedom?

• I'm here for information.

You explain to the Miller about the Florentine Diamond. He nods his head as you do.

Of course, I had heard that the referenced piece was going onto the market. Unfortunately, I was detained before I had the opportunity to learn much about it.

But I certainly owe you for getting me out of here. Let's return to our fair homeland and I will engage my contacts to see what I can discover.

The Miller Dialogue

The Miller: I owe you one, Character. I'll be sure to keep my ear to the ground for your diamond.

• Let's go.

• I'm getting you out of here.

The Miller smiles ruefully at you, his lips pursed together as they curl at the edges.

Of course, your type are well known for breaking people out of prison for no reason at all.

I'd rather know beforehand if I've only been freed from one dungeon to be dragged into another.

• I want information.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

Debriefing

Well, the Miller might not know anything now, but as soon as anyone tries to sell that diamond, we're gonna know about it. I guarantee it! It won't be long, buddy, before we're able to get that diamond in your pocket, then turn it into some real cash.

Part Three: Going Twice

Briefing

Alright, so the Miller doesn't know anything yet, but that don't mean we've gotta give up! Eventually, he'll hear something, but until then, I got some news. While you were over in Paragon, I talked to my cousin Willy again. They don't know he was behind turning off the alarms, so he's been able to catch wind of what the Euphorium owners have been saying.

Bobby leans in close to you again, looking around as if someone is trying to eavesdrop.

They think someone received inside info. Now, funny thing, they don't suspect any Euphorium employees. But the only other people it coulda been are the owners of the diamond - and why would they steal it? - and the auctioneer. They haven't made a move on him yet, they're hoping he's gonna slip up and lead them to the real thief.

I say we get to him first and find out what he knows.

• Just tell me where to find him.

The auction house is run out of an office building here in Nerva. They've got their own private security working the place - don't worry, it ain't the same company Willy works for. All you gotta do is go in and ask him a few questions. I'm sure you got your ways to get a person to talk.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You talked to that auctioneer yet? He's gotta know who the thief is!

Mission Objective(s)

These offices are surprisingly plain for an auction house that deals in priceless artifacts.

• Interrogate the auctioneer
  • Find the Auctioneer
  • Talk to the Auctioneer

You've learned the identity of the thief. Now it's time to track them down.

Enemies

Security Guards

Notable NPCs

• Security Chief Xavi (Security Guards Boss)
• Security Chief Bill (Security Guards Boss)
• The Auctioneer

Auctioneer's Salary

According to the pay records, the auctioneer has been paid the same salary for the past five years... and it's not that much.

Security Chief Xavi Dialogue

Before Combat: It's locked. Nobody gets through.
Combat Start: We've got problems!

Pass Key

You found this access key in the pocket of the security chief.

Auctioneer Dialogue

Before Combat:
The Auctioneer: Why aren't we being evacuated?
Security Chief Bill: Just stay calm, sir. We're sure once they steal whatever they're here for, they'll go away.
Combat Start:
Security Chief Bill: Stay back and let us handle this!
On Defeat:
The Auctioneer: I'm not supposed to have to deal with these types!

The Auctioneer

Briefing

The auctioneer shrinks back from you as you approach him.

What do you want? I... I work for very important people!

• I need information.

The auctioneer covers his head with his arms and crouches down.

I don't know anything! I'm just an auctioneer, I just stand up on a podium and acknowledge bids!

• Stop cowering. I'm not going to hurt you.

You're not?

The auctioneer peeks out from behind his arms. When you don't do anything to him, he relaxes.

I thought for sure you were going to do something terrible to me. After all...

He looks down at the security guards you just took out. He starts to raise his arms back up to his face.

• Don't worry, they're just unconscious.

On cue, one of the security guards lets out a groan of pain. He doesn't seem to be regaining consciousness any time soon, though. The auctioneer once again relaxes.

Oh, good. I don't know them, but I'd hate to see them hurt. Well, hurt to death, I suppose. You said you wanted information? What about?

• The Florentine Diamond. Who took it?

+++ Missing Information +++

• You won't end up like them... as long as you cooperate.

The auctioneer looks down at the unmoving bodies of the security guards and shivers.

I... look. I don't want t... to get hurt. We don't keep m... money here in the offices. If you want, information, I don't know anything about the investors, I just -

• Shut up! Tell me about the Florentine Diamond. Now.

+++ Missing Information +++

• Just tell me who stole the Florentine Diamond.

+++ Missing Information +++

• You're lying! Tell me what I want to know, now!

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• An auctioneer who is underpaid.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• Who stole the diamond?!

The auctioneer lets out a yelp like a kicked puppy. He covers his head with his arms and crouches down.

I... I... I...

He swallows heavily with an audible gulping sound that might be comical in different circumstances.

I don't know what y... you mean.

• Oh, don't worry! I'm not going to hurt you.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• Wrong answer. (Hit him)

You drive your fist into the auctioneer's gut, doubling him over and driving all the air out of his lungs. His eyes bulge out in surprise as he lets out a wheezing gasp. As you pull away, he falls to his knees.

He sucks in a few rasping gasps and looks up at you, eyes watering and fear plastered across his face.

• (Hit him again)

Before he can say anything, you kick the auctioneer in the side of the head, sending him sprawling. He lays on the ground, staring up at the ceiling, mouth agape. For a moment it seems like he is going to fall unconscious, but then he curls into a ball and starts weeping.

He lets out a long, keening whine, head tucked beneath his arms, knees pulled up into his stomach.

P... p... please stop. I... I'll tell you everything.

• Too late.

You bury your foot into the auctioneer's ribs, cutting off a terrified cry. You kick him a second time, then again, right in the same spot. The auctioneer tries to roll over to protect himself, but you just kick him in the other side even harder.

The point of your foot creates a wet crunch as it connects with his ribs once again. The auctioneer lets out a subhuman groan. Another blow like that might kill him and you haven't gotten the name of the thief yet.

• Last chance. Who stole the diamond?

For a few moments, the auctioneer lays on the ground, immobile. He's still drawing in ragged breaths, each one releasing a groan of pain from his throat. Finally, he speaks.

It was a Circle of Thorns mage.

His voice is thick and cracks as he speaks.

The d... diamond is magic. They're using it in... in a ritual. He cursed me and said he'd only remove it if... if I helped him. He's in a cave up on Crimson Cove.

You make him mark the location of the cave on a map.

P... please, let me g... go.

• Sure. You should have just told me what I wanted to know.

• Remember to never cross me. (Knock him out)

+++ Missing Information +++

• You have ten seconds.

He looks up at you, face and eyes wet with tears. He starts to speak, but his voice catches in his throat and he coughs roughly. He clears his throat and spits a wad of phlegm on the floor.

It was a mage from the Circle of Thorns. He cursed me to make me help him.

He looks down at the floor and squeezes his eye shut.

The diamond is magic. He... he is going to use it for some ritual. There's a cave on Crimson Cove that he stays in.

You make him mark the location on a map.

P... please let me go. I told you everything I know.

• Sure. You should have just told me from the start.

• Remember to never cross me. (Knock him out)

+++ Missing Information +++

• Tell me what I want to know!

+++ Missing Information +++

• You have five seconds to tell me. Four. Three.

+++ Missing Information +++

• Important people who pay poorly. (possibly only appears if you find the Auctioneer's Salary clue, TBD)

He blinks heavily when you say that.

My... pay? What do you know about my pay?

• I know that you don't get paid what you're worth.

The auctioneer frowns at you.

I... I've been treated... fairly by...

He trails off and looks at you, his mouth pressed into a thin line.

Are you trying to bribe me?

• No, Murphy. Not a bribe.

+++ Missing Information +++

• No. I want you to tell me who stole the Florentine Diamond.

+++ Missing Information +++

If you get the auctioneer to talk without using violence, you receive the following clue: +++ Missing Information +++

If you use violence to get the auctioneer to talk, you receive the following clue:

The True Thief

You had to beat the truth out of him, but eventually the auctioneer told you that the thief is a Circle of Thorns mage who operates out of some caverns in Crimson Cove. He plans to use the diamond in a magic ritual.

Debriefing

If you used violence to get the auctioneer to talk:

The Circle stole it? Aww, man. That really makes things a lot tougher for us! I hope he was lying to you. I know a guy who knows all about the cave openings up on Crimson Cove. I'll check with him to see if that spot the auctioneer marked is legit or not.

Part Four (2): Down in the Dark

Editor's Note:

You will only receive this mission if you used violence to get the auctioneer to talk in the previous mission; if you got the auctioneer to talk without violence, you will receive +++ Missing Information +++.

Briefing

Alright, I've confirmed that there's a cave entrance where the auctioneer marked it on the map. Lots of Circle of Thorns mages have been seen around there. I always was creeped out by them Circle guys. They don't really come into the White Elephant, thank goodness. Hope you don't mind dealing with them.

• I'll have to if I want my diamond.

True enough, Character. Don't know how you do it. You know they got ghosts? Ghosts! That's too spooky for me. Don't wanna be haunted by any creepy ghosts.

Though I guess it does kinda prove the existence of an afterlife. Huh. Guess that's a little comforting, at least.

Unnecessary Solicitation

+++ Missing Information +++

Mission Objective(s)

The entrance to the twisting, cramped caves that the Circle of Thorns inhabit is covered in a thick layer of dust. It doesn't seem to have been disturbed in a long time.

• Track down the Circle mage
  • Find Librarian Semrig
  • Talk to Librarian Semrig

The Circle mage didn't have the diamond... Seems you were lied to.

Enemies

Circle of Thorns

Notable NPCs

• Librarian Semrig (Circle of Thorns Agony Mage)

Librarian Semrig Dialogue

Before Combat: I don't wish to venture to the surface. Perhaps we can have someone else bring us some new bodies to inhabit.
Combat Start: Who dares breach our sanctum?
25% Health: Wait, villain! Stop, let us talk!
Upon Player Defeat: It seems we will not have to leave the confines of home to restore ourselves.

Librarian Semrig

Briefing

The Circle mage looks at you with a glare, the green glow of his eyes making the deep creases on his face even more stark.

Why do you intrude upon our home? We have done nothing to provoke your wrath.

• I'm here for the Florentine Diamond.

The mage shakes his head.

I do not know of it. If you seek scrying spells to divine its location, I am no expert on those spells.

• You have the diamond.

He shakes his head.

I do not, nor have I ever heard of such a gem. What are diamonds to me? Ugly stones, worth no more than granite or pitchblende.

• You really have been down here a long time.

He nods his head stiffly, more a bob than anything.

And I do not wish to leave. So you see, I have no desire for your diamond.

• I was told it is magic.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• I'm going to make that auctioneer pay.

Having felt your power first hand, I do not envy this auctioneer.

Now, having not found your diamond here, will you leave us in peace?

• Yes. I'm leaving. (Leave)

• Time for me to leave, then. (Leave)

• How can I trust you?

Why would I lie? If you came down here for this diamond, it obviously means something to you. A lie would only serve to make you angrier when you determine the falsehood. Then you'll return and bother me again, when I just wish to be left to my own devices.

• You're right, lies do make me angry. That auctioneer will pay.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• Then there's no reason for me to stay here. (Leave)

• I was told it was magic.

No. Or if it is, I know nothing of it. Whatever led you here to find it has misled you.

• How can I trust you?

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• I am going to make that auctioneer pay.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• I was told you have the diamond!

He starts to make a sound like a cat coughing.

Whoever told you that must have wished you dead, but underestimated you. Why would I want a diamond?

• How can I trust you?

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• I was told it was magic.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• Seriously? You Circle mages are always kidnapping people and summoning demons.

My brethren may do such things, but I have not. Those of us in this section of the city have not ventured outside in decades, if not longer.

The mage sweeps his arm out in front of himself. His voice is like dry wind through barren trees.

Look around you. See how undisturbed this place is.

• It looks the same as anywhere else down here.

He stiffly shrugs his shoulders and quirks his head to the side.

For one who has lived here as long as me, it is plain. So is that why you are here? Because one of my brethren has wronged you somehow?

• No. I'm here for the Florentine Diamond.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• And yet you're wearing that flesh suit.

The mage holds up his arm and looks at it. The sleeve of his robe slides down his arm, revealing a bony appendage with loose skin covered in spots.

This body nears the end of its time. I have not taken one for some time. Likely longer than you have been alive...

He leans in and stares at your face for a moment.

Though of course, you can never be sure of age based solely on appearances.

So is that why you are here? To punish me for the form I have worn for decades?

• No. I'm here for the Florentine Diamond.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• That's beside the point. I'm here for the Florentine Diamond.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

A False Lead

The Circle mage did not have the gem. In fact, he even called the diamond "worthless"! It seems the auctioneer didn't appreciate the... heavy handed methods you used to get him to talk and told a fib.

Debriefing

You gotta be kidding me? The Circle wasn't the real thief? I can't believe the auctioneer was brave enough to lie to you! Oh man, that guy definitely isn't getting vouched into the White Elephant on my watch! I guarantee that.

I'm sure you wanna get a bit of revenge and teach that joker a lesson. We still gotta find out who the real thief is, too. I just hope he hasn't run and -

Bobby's phone chimes with the familiar sound of a newly received text message.

It's the Miller. I gotta give him a call.

Part Five (2): Fine Arts

Editor's Note:

This mission follows Part Four: Down in the Dark. If you completed +++ Missing Information +++, you will receive +++ Missing Information +++ instead.

Briefing

Alright, Character, I just got off the phone with the Miller. Ever heard of Kue Xob? He's a big wig with the Tsoo and apparently likes his art. The Miller got word that a woman reached out to Xob and tried to arrange a buy for a 'lost treasure' here in the Isles. I guess whoever our thief is figured 'art guy' also means 'diamond guy'. Apparently, the buy didn't go down, but the Miller doesn't know why.

Now the Tsoo usually ain't the most forthcoming types with information, so you might need to put the press to them a bit before they give up the gold. I've got word that Kue Xob is still in the Isles for a few days, probably training some of their ninjas or something like that. They got a den not very far from here that they're working out of.

I figure you go, bust a head or two, get this Kue Xob to tell you all he knows.

• Maybe I can pick up a few antiques while I'm there for my trouble.

Bobby grins and nods as you get ready to head off.

Never much liked them Tsoo guys none any. Bad tippers. If you see a guy named Vang, pop him one for me. He got handsy with a waitress in the White Elephant, then teleported out before I could toss him out. Damn sorcerers.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You talked to Kue Xob yet? I hear that ninjas get weaker if you fight more of them at once. Dunno if that's just a rumor or not, though, so if you get ganged up on, don't blame me.

Mission Objective(s)

The thick scent of incense hangs in the air of this warehouse, a plain giveaway that Tsoo initiation rituals or occuring.

• Question Kue Xob
  • Find Kue Xob

A hero named Arc Flash stole your diamond! Time to track her down and get it back.

Enemies

Tsoo

Notable NPCs

• Sorcerer Vang (Tsoo Sorcerer)
• Kue Xob (Tsoo Special Boss)

Sorcerer Vang Dialogue

Before Combat:
Sorcerer Vang: I swear, she was flirting with me.
Serpent Blue Ink Man: You should not dishonor the Tsoo with uncouth behavior.
Combat Start:
Sorcerer Vang: Did Curtin send you? It is all a misunderstanding!
Serpent Blue Ink Man: An intruder! We will punish you for your trespass!
Upon Defeat:
Sorcerer Vang: Guess I'm not... gonna be vouched again...

Kue Xob Dialogue

Before Combat:
Copper Serpent: Master Kue Xob, we await your mark of favor upon our skin.
Kue Xob: You have all proven yourself worthy initiates to the Tsoo.
Combat Start:
Copper Serpent: Protect the master from this impudent intruder!
Eagle Red Ink Man: Character?! How dare you interrupt our rites!
Upon Boss Defeat:
Kue Xob: Hold, Character, you have done enough to my students. What is your purpose here?

Kue Xob

Briefing

You come here, interrupt our rituals, and bring violence upon my students. We have done nothing to you, so why do you attack us?

• I'm just here for information. You attacked first.

A sour expression crosses the face of the Tsoo master. His mouth squirms for a moment before he speaks, slowly.

I will concede that we attack those who come here uninvited. The question is why you came.

• Tell me what you know about the Florentine Diamond.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• Tell me all you know about the Florentine Diamond.

He raises an eyebrow.

Did the girl send you? I suppose the infamous Character is a more likely seller than a heroine, but even so, I do not wish to buy it. It is a gaudy thing with no aesthetic value.

• I'm not with her. What do you mean, a hero?

His other eyebrow raises.

Truly?

Then a smile slowly spreads across his face.

Ahh. That explains much, then. Here is my offer, then. I will tell you who has the diamond and you will leave here. Deal?

• You're in no position to bargain.

Nor are you. Not if you want to learn the identity of the diamond thief before she finds a less discerning buyer.

• Fine. Deal.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• Deal.

Her name is Arc Flash, or so one of my students said. She came here to try to sell me the diamond, but her behavior was strange. She was nervous and jumpy. At first, I simply thought her some sort of drug addict, perhaps with a small gem she wished to trade for Rage...

He shakes his head.

But when I saw the diamond she carried, I knew no ordinary addict would be capable of stealing it. I consulted with my men and one identified her as a heroine from Paragon City named Arc Flash.

I assumed some sort of inexpert trap and ordered my men to attack. She fled and we let her go; I had no interest in the diamond, after all.

There, I have told you all I know. Now, leave here.

• Very well.

A Lost Hero

You spoke with Sun Xiong, a Tsoo master with a taste for the arts. He told you that a woman tried to sell the gem to him, but after one of his men recognized her as the hero Arc Flash, they chased her off.

Debriefing

Arc Flash? She's a hero, ain't she? Why would she be stealing a diamond and trying to sell it to criminals, huh?

Bobby rubs the bridge of his nose, then shakes his head slowly.

I tell you, Character, things are getting more complicated here in the Isles every day. You got heroes committing heists, you got people from other dimensions running around... What's next, we gonna have villains volunteering at the free clinic?

Finale: A Flashy Thief

Editor's Note:

You will receive this mission regardless of which path you took after Part Three.

Briefing

Alright, Character, I think we're finally getting to the end of this. I did a little digging on this Arc Flash lady. Seems like she's a magic hero, uses some bracers to give herself lightning powers. Kinda makes sense; Bronte's a Greek goddess of thunder, one of Zeus's handmaidens.

Bobby looks at you as if waiting for you to make a comment.

Hey, even a meathead like me has some smart type hobbies. Anyway, seems like she's been working with the Legacy Chain here in the Isles. Maybe the diamond is magic, but I doubt it. The Chain wouldn't be good with trying to sell the thing to criminals if it had any magic in it and they ain't the type to be running scams either. I'm betting Arc Flash has been pulling this off behind their backs.

Even so, they got a place called the Dark Gallery nearby that they operate out of. Small place, but fancy. If she ain't there, they'll know where to find her at least.

• It's time to get what's mine.

Still gotta wonder why a hero like Arc Flash is doing this? All the dirt I got on her says she's a goody two-shoes, never even a whiff of something bad about her.

Bobby shrugs his broad shoulders.

Ah, who knows? They say power corrupts and all that. Maybe she just got tired of doing all the work but not getting the reward, huh?

Unnecessary Solicitation

The Legacy Chain are a weird bunch. Look more like a group hanging out at a Renn Faire than proper magic guys. Seriously, what's up with the swords and helmets and stuff?

Mission Objective(s)

The spark of magic hangs over the Dark Gallery like a fog. It's clear the Legacy Chain is prepared for any intrusions.

• Track down Arc Flash
  • Defeat all Legacy Chain
  • Find Arc Flash
  • Talk to Arc Flash

You step out of the Dark Gallery into the light of Nerva... your decision made.

Enemies

Legacy Chain

Notable NPCs

• Arcanist Maranus (Legacy Chain Tellus of Earth)
• Arc Flash (Elite Boss)

Arcanist Maranus Dialogue

Before Combat:
Arcanist Maranus: Where is Arc Flash?
Kaolin of Earth: She said she had some personal business to take care of.
Combat Start:
Arcanist Maranus: Looks like we won't be able to wait for her!

Arc Flash realizes something is wrong

Arc Flash:

Sorry I'm late! I was...

Well... it's been a long day.

Where is everyone?

Arc Flash Dialogue

Before Combat: A villain?! Wait, you're Character!
75% Health: Why... Why are you here?
50% Health: You won't beat me, Character!

Are my powers not going to be enough?

25% Health: Wait, wait! Please, I give up, just listen to me!
Upon Player Defeat: Oh man, I'm in a real mess now... What do I do?

Arc Flash

Briefing

Arc Flash looks up at you from the ground, breathing heavy. She slowly wipes a trickle of blood from her lip.

Why are you here? What do you want from me?

• I'm here for the Florentine Diamond.

She flinches.

I... I don't have it.

She seems to realize that her lie is transparent even as it leaves her lips. She sighs.

Please... Don't take it from me. I need it.

• I know you're trying to sell it.

That's why I need it! I need the money.

My... my mother, she's sick. Very sick. But we can't afford her treatment! She was an EMT during the Rikti War. She helped people, hundreds of people! She saved lives, Character, and now she needs someone to save her.

I'm the only one who can. I need to sell the diamond to get money for her medical bills. Do you understand?

• I have some questions.

What do you want to know?

• How did you learn about the diamond?

It was a coincidence. There was a smuggling ring I brought down. They were trading in rare artifacts, many of them magic. I overheard one of the smugglers talking about the diamond they unloaded in the Isles, so I did some digging and found out about it.

Arc Flash's Luck

You learned that Arc Flash learned about the Florentine Diamond by pure coincidence. Lucky her.

• How did you blackmail the auctioneer?

Arc Flash looks away from you, eyes cast toward the ground.

Does it matter? I swore I wouldn't tell anyone and I won't go back on my word, no matter what. It wasn't even that bad... I think he was just worried about what his parents would think.

She cringes.

But I think I've said too much.

The Auctioneer's Secret

Arc Flash wouldn't tell you how she blackmailed the auctioneer, only that the truth would have upset his parents.

• Does the Legacy Chain know you're a thief?

Her face goes slightly red.

No. They would never have approved of it. If they'd learned, they would have taken me in themselves and given me nothing for the diamond.

Legacy Chain's Involvement

The Legacy Chain doesn't know anything about Arc Flash's actions.

• Couldn't another hero help your mother? With magic or other powers?

I tried, trust me. It's not that easy. There's no universal cure, not known to science anyway. And magic is finnicky on this sort of thing. There are spells that might have cured her, but would have taken her soul, or stolen so many years from her life that it wouldn't even matter. If it could have traded my own soul for it, I would have. But I couldn't even find that.

Private Health Care

Arc Flash tried to seek a mystical or superscience cure for her mother's illness, but wasn't able to find anything.

• Why weren't you able to sell the diamond?

I... I didn't know how. Once I had the diamond, I couldn't figure out what to do with it! I couldn't exactly walk into a pawn shop. I tried to sell it to a few people who might have wanted it, but they all recognized me as a hero and got spooked.

If I keep up with it, I'll be able to sell it eventually. I just need to keep trying.

Failed Her Barter Check

Arc Flash doesn't have any criminal connections, so she kept making missteps when trying to sell the Florentine Diamond. You won't have that problem.

• How did you get your powers?

She glances at her wrists and the rune-etched bracers there.

The Bracers of Astrape. She was a Greek goddess of lightning, one of the handmaidens of Zeus. My grandfather was an archaeologist and found them on a dig in Greece. He used them as a hero for a while, the first Arc Flash back in the 60s. But the magic in the bracers suddenly stopped working one day.

Until I picked them up when I was a teenager, at least. They attuned to me and the magic came back. I think as long as I wear them, the magic won't run out again.

The Bracers of Astrape

Arc Flash's powers come from her magical bracers, which carry the power of a Greek goddess. The bracers are attuned to her and lose their power over time if she's not using them.

• That's enough. I need to think.

• (Think about it)

You've gone through a lot of hard work to track down the Florentine Diamond and you've finally got the thief at your mercy. She's given you a sob story, but do you believe her? Do you even care?

You could just take the diamond from her. It's likely that she'll try to resist, but you've already proven that you can handle her.

You could let her go. You wouldn't get anything out of the deal, except for maybe the good karma of doing a "good" deed.

Then again, she hasn't had much luck selling the diamond so far. Maybe you could offer to help. You can use your connections with the Miller to sell the diamond, then split the money with her. Still a nice haul and no one else would have to die.

But what's money compared to power? Her magical bracers are obviously very powerful. You could offer a trade, bracers for diamond. It would leave her powerless, but she clearly values her mother's life more than being a hero.

• That diamond is mine! (Attack)

+++ Missing Information +++

• Fine... Go on, get out of here before I change my mind.

+++ Missing Information +++

• Let me sell the diamond. We'll split the money.

+++ Missing Information +++

• Let's trade. Your bracers for the diamond.

If you did not kill Amphitryon in +++ Missing Information +++

Arc Flash's eyes go wide in disbelief. She starts to rub the bracer on her right arm.

My bracers? But... Without them, I won't be a hero any more. I'll be powerless.

She looks down at her feet, silent for a moment. Then she sighs and unlatches her right bracer.

Fine. It's worth it. My mother needs this money more than I need to be a hero. I can't be selfish.

She unlatches the second bracer, then holds them out to you. As you take them, you can feel a brief crackle of electricity race through your body, but it is just a jolt, no worse than static.

You received Bracers of Astrape.

Bracers of Astrape

Melee (Cone), High DMG(Energy), -End

These rune-etched bracers channel the power of the Greek goddess of lightning, allowing you to generate a strong current between your arms and snap a powerful bolt of electricity in an arc in front of you. This melee attack can electrocute all foes within the arc dealing High energy damage and draining some Endurance from your target. Damage: High, Recharge: Moderate

30 uses left

• (Leave)

If you killed Amphitryon in +++ Missing Information +++

+++ Missing Information +++

• I don't care. Give it to me.

No, please! Just listen to me!

Do you have a mother, Character? Or at least someone you consider a mother?

• I don't.

Well, maybe you won't understand this then... But when your mother gets sick, you just want to do anything to help her get better. My mom is very sick. She was an EMT who worked throughout the Rikti War. We don't know what it was... The radiation, the dust from destroyed buildings she breathed in, or something else, but she got sick from it.

She got too sick to work and lost her health insurance. She can't afford to pay her medical bills. Please, I need to sell the diamond so I can get her treatment! Please, let me go!

• I have some questions.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• (Think about it)

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• Of course I do.

Then you know how hard it is when your mom gets sick. Just like mine is. She was an EMT who worked throughout the Rikti War. We don't know what it was... The radiation, the dust from destroyed buildings she breathed in, or something else, but she got sick from it.

She got too sick to work and lost her health insurance. She can't afford to pay her medical bills. Please, I need to sell the diamond so I can get her treatment! Please, let me go!

• I have some questions.

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

• (Think about it)

This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.

Debriefing

If you traded the diamond for Arc Flash's bracers:

At your approach, Bobby's face lights up in anticipation, but quickly falls when you explain that Arc Flash is gone with the diamond. Then you hold up her bracers and his dismay turns to curiosity.

Are those... her bracers? Those are what gave her powers, ain't they?

He lets out a low, long whistle.

You're really something else, ain't you? Look, I dunno why you agreed to trade with her. I'm sure you had good reasons, though. Still, we had a deal for 10% of what you made out with. Doubt those things are worth quite as much as the diamond, but to the right buyer...

Of course, finding the right buyer will be tough. But I have an idea.

Epilogue (3): Bracers for Sale

Editor's Note:

You receive this mission if you chose to trade the diamond for Arc Flash's bracers.

Briefing

The Miller! Now that he's free, thanks to you, he's going to be looking to get back into the game, right? Who better to find a buyer for those bracers than him? He'll know exactly the right type of person to sell them to, someone who will pay top dollar without causing you any trouble with them in the future.

• Let's get our money.

The Miller's hanging out over in St. Martial. I'm sure he'll be glad to see you.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You seen the Miller about the bracers yet?

Mission Objective(s)

• Talk to the Miller

The Miller

Briefing

The Miller gives you a courteous nod as you approach him.

So you've found the Florentine Diamond, have you? No? Surprising, I thought you would have done so by now, Character.

But what are those? Arc Flash's bracers? Hmm, quite rare, quite rare indeed. Powerful magic in them. You do have quite an unusual set of skills if you were able to acquire them.

You wish me to sell them? I can do so. It may take some time to find a buyer who would be interested in them. Powerful magic like that would invite trouble for their owner. And I suspect you would rather they not be taken by someone who might one day cause you trouble.

You keep them for now. You have proven you are strong enough to hold onto them. I will contact you once I have found a suitable buyer.

• Good doing business with you.

Debriefing

I knew that the Miller would be able to help us out, Character. Now, I know it might take a little while before those things sell. They still got their magic in 'em? Guess you should have fun with 'em while you can. I'll be seeing you whenever you get your payday! You ever need to be vouched for the White Elephant, talk to me. I'll get you a seat at the bar.

Missions

Bobby Curtin does not offer any missions outside of his main story arc.