Maharaj

Overview

Maharaj
Zone	Dark Astoria
Coordinates	(4629, -1, 4400)
Level Range	50
Introduced By	Threatening Arachnos Message
Introduces	Heather Townshend
Enemy Groups	Tsoo Banished Pantheon Knives of Vengeance Talons of Vengeance

Maharaj is a villain contact in Dark Astoria at coordinates (4629, -1, 4400) . His level range is 50. He is standing in the Fading Nimbus rune circle.

Maharaj supplies repeatable missions. Each mission awards a choice of the following rewards:

• 10 incarnate threads
  • This reward can be claimed once per 20 hours; additional rewards are limited to 1 incarnate thread
• 2 Reward Merits
  • This reward can be claimed once per 20 hours; additional rewards are limited to 1 reward merit
• random super inspiration

Introductions

Contact Introduced By

Maharaj is introduced to Villains and Rogues if they follow the story arc given by Threatening Arachnos Message.

No introduction is necessary to acquire repeatable missions.

Contact Introduces

• Heather Townshend

Information

Mage of the Circle

In a land where death itself can drive one insane, a Master of Madness will thrive. Maharaj is one of the most ancient and powerful magi in the Circle of Thorns, and he is well-served by his assignment to Dark Astoria. Here, in this land of terror and hopelessness, Maharaj thrives. Though the Circle's influence in Dark Astoria is meager, Maharaj has learned to forge alliances with those outside the Circle. He has found that if the right information reaches the right ears, often the Circle can achieve its goals without ever lifting a finger.

Prior to Introduction

Missing Prior to Introduction Dialogue

Wrong Alignment

I don't think it's safe for either of us to be seen talking to each other. Maybe if you were more like me I might reconsider.

Initial Contact

• From Eye of Judgement given by Threatening Arachnos Message:

The Circle mage claps his hands together when he sees you.

Yes, yes! You will do nicely. My name is Maharaj, and I would like to make an offer to you, Character.

You shouldn't be surprised that I know you, my friend. I make it my business to know everything that goes on in this morbid little corner of the world. I have information that you would find beneficial, I think, as well. No no, there is no price, no catch. I merely wish to impart my wisdom to you. And if the Circle should happen to benefit from your subsequent rampages...

Maharaj raises his hands before you, and shrugs.

I am merely here to look for a benefit in this place. If that cowardly mage told you otherwise, then he is wrong. You would be best to seek out a woman named Heather Townshend if you're looking to solve this mystery of Dark Astoria.

Maharaj is a repeatable mission giver in Dark Astoria. You can always get various missions from him. Enemies in these missions will reward incarnate experience and have a chance to drop incarnate threads. Completing a repeatable mission will give you a choice of either two incarnate threads, five reward merits, or a single super inspiration.

Greeting

• Character. A pleasure.
• Mmm, have you come seeking my counsel? How fortuitous.
• Ahhhh, Character. Just the man I wanted to see.

Too Busy

Missing Too Busy Dialogue

Too Low Level

Missing Too Low Level Dialogue

Store

• Inspirations (all)

Missions

A Little Less Fame

Briefing

Character, I am deeply sorry. It appears that the Banished Pantheon have named you, as one of Mot's favored targets. I am afraid that once the creature's eyes are upon you, you will have little hope of surviving with your sanity intact.

That is... unless you were to confront the Pantheon directly. Mot is only peripherally aware of your exploits. Without his followers to name you, he would be blind to your doings in Dark Astoria...

• Assault the Banished Pantheon

Oh, a bold course of action, Character. I am highly impressed.

The Pantheon in question reside in an office nearby. Do give them my best regards while you are there.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Chosen to accept your fate, have you, Character? I suppose I can't blame you. It's not often that one gains the attention of a vengeful god.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map Abandoned Office 30 Layout 05.png

Map: Abandoned_Office_30_Layout_05

The Banished Pantheon made the mistake of calling you out. Now they'll have to deal with you directly.

• Assault the Banished Pantheon
  • Defeat the Pantheon leader

You have slain the Pantheon shaman that called you out to Mot. You should be free to operate in Dark Astoria for a while longer now.

Enemies

Banished Pantheon

Notable NPCs

• The Harbinger (Banished Pantheon Ancient of Pain)

Pantheon Leader Dialogue

Before Combat:

The Harbinger: Character will join the Master soon...

Combat Start:

The Harbinger: You appear before us! What providence!

Debriefing

None

Allies and Anchors

Briefing

I fear I must ask a favor of you, Character. The Circle of Thorns has relatively little influence in Dark Astoria, when compared with Mot's growing power. We do, however, have the advantage of not being somewhat... outside of Mot's area of influence. Our order has placed ley anchors down in key locations, which prevent Mot from claiming the spirits of our members.

Unfortunately, the Knives of Vengeance have discovered some of these anchors, and plan to destroy them. I understand that you are not in the habit of charity, Character, but I would remind you that the Circle remains one of your precious few allies in Dark Astoria... and allies are worth protecting, yes?

• Prevent the Destruction of the Ley Anchors

I am most gracious at your assistance, Character. I will show you the location of the anchors that are in jeopardy. I assure you, your efforts will not be forgotten. The Circle always pays its debts.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I beseech you, Character, do not tarry in this. We are on the verge of being expelled from Dark Astoria entirely.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map Abandoned Warehouse 45 Layout 01 02.png

Map: Abandoned_Warehouse_45_Layout_01_02

If this sort of thing keeps up, the Circle may end up being more of a nuisance than they're worth.

• Prevent the Destruction of the Ley Anchors
  • 3 wards to defend

You have guarded the Circle's Ley Anchors against the Knives of Vengeance.

Enemies

Knives of Vengeance

Knives of Vengeance Dialogue

Before Combat:

Dervish: The ward is flimsy. This will not take long.

Combat Start:

Conqueror: We will strike you down for your interference!

---

Before Combat:

Guardian: The sorcerors believe they are immune. We will show them otherwise.

Combat Start:

Aspirant: An interloper. Come, sisters...

---

Before Combat:

Conqueror: The Circle does not belong here. They will be removed.

Combat Start:

Vanquisher: You are bold to come here, Character. Too bold.

Debriefing

None

Armor of the Soul

Briefing

The fortunes turn in our favor, Character. I have learned of a Tsoo mystic that claims to know of a way to guard his allies against Mot's corrupting influence. If true, this power could be the key to gaining an advantage in Dark Astoria. Would you care to investigate?

• Kidnap the Tsoo Mystic

Wonderful. I have traced the aura of his spiritual craft to a nearby warehouse. I do not know how many of the Tsoo currently reside there, but I'm sure you are capable of managing them yourself.

Unnecessary Solicitation

No mystic, no protection? I warn you, Character... as powerful as you are, it would not do to underestimate Mot's power. Were I you, I would take every advantage afforded to me.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map Abandoned Warehouse 45 Layout 04 02.png

Map: Abandoned_Warehouse_45_Layout_04_02

The Tsoo Mystic is here somewhere. And as long as you receive protection against Mot, he will be able to continue breathing.

• Kidnap the Tsoo Mystic
  • Kidnap the Tsoo Mystic
  • Escape with the mystic in tow

You have kidnapped a Tsoo mystic, and forced him to use his magical prowess to protect you from Mot.

Enemies

Tsoo

Tsoo Mystic Dialogue

Before Combat:

Tiger Blue Ink Man: This will protect me from the dark god?

Tsoo Mystic: It will guard your soul, but not your body. Be mindful.

Combat Start:

Tiger Blue Ink Man: This is not for the likes of you, Character!

Tsoo Mystic: ...It appears we have a guest.

Upon Capture:

Tsoo Mystic: You are a bold one, indeed.

If Lost:

Tsoo Mystic: It appears that fortune smiles upon me.

When Found:

Tsoo Mystic: Ah. I was mistaken.

At Exit:

Tsoo Mystic: You would have my power? So be it.

Ambush! You will be ambushed by five waves of Tsoo on your way to the exit.
Copper Serpent: You will not have him, fiend!

Debriefing

None

Culling the Competition

Briefing

This... may seem an odd request, Character, but hear me out. The Tsoo are preparing a massive force, with the intention of striking at Mot directly and slaying him. I would ask that you prevent them from doing so.

While I am fairly certain their attack will fail, it represents a risk to both of our interests in the deity. I would 'rather be safe than sorry,' so to speak. If either of us are to take advantage of Mot's awakened state in this city, then we will need the creature to remain intact a while longer.

• Scatter the Tsoo Forces

I'm glad you agree. We have observed the Tsoo's movements for some time now. If you strike at one of their gathering places, preferably a place where their leaders can meet, then I'm sure you'll be able to disrupt their immediate plans.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I fear the Tsoo still have a sizable force available, Character. Perhaps not enough to threaten Mot... perhaps.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map Abandoned Office 30 Layout 14.png

Map: Abandoned_Office_30_Layout_14

The Tsoo are playing well out of their league. It's time to remind them of that fact.

• Scatter the Tsoo Forces
  • 3 leaders to defeat

You have defeated the Tsoo leaders and scattered their attack force.

Enemies

Tsoo

Tsoo Leaders Dialogue

Before Combat:

Sky Fall: This is not enough. We need to gather more!

Combat Start:

Sky Fall: You! What are you doing here?

---

Before Combat:

Ancestral Sorcerer: Mot's power is vast... will even our sacrifices be enough?

Combat Start:

Ancestral Sorcerer: Don't you see? Fighting one another is what Mot desires!

---

Before Combat:

Ancestral Sorceress: Soon, we will strike, and this nightmare will end.

Combat Start:

Ancestral Sorceress: Character! Are you in league with the dark god?

Debriefing

None

Death Magic

Briefing

I have an offer that I think will interest you, Character. One of our order has been researching the rites used by the Banished Pantheon to channel Mot's power. It is our belief that we have discovered a method with which we can claim that power for our own, but we will need access to one of their altars in order to perform the rite. If you can escort my colleague to one of these altars, perhaps we can arrange for you to gain Mot's blessing as well.

• Perform the Rite of Death

I'm glad you see the benefits of this arrangement. We have traced the location of one of the Pantheon's ritual altars to an abandoned office building nearby. My colleague will meet you there.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You return unempowered, Character. Have you not completed the ritual?

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map Abandoned Office 30 Layout 05.png

Map: Abandoned_Office_30_Layout_05

You're not sure the Circle is capable of pulling this off, but if they are...

• Perform the Rite of Death
  • Escort the Circle mage to the altar
  • Observe the ritual
  • Fend off the Banished Pantheon

The ritual failed, but you managed to escape with your hide intact... unlike your companion.

Enemies

Banished Pantheon

Circle Mage Dialogue

At Entrance:

Circle Mage: Greetings, Character. Once we have found the altar, the ritual can begin.

Upon Arrival at Altar:

Circle Mage: P856364347;P856364347

Circle Mage: One moment...

Circle Mage: Wait... something's wrong...

Circle Mage: I can't... contain...

Circle Mage: No! No, stay away!

Circle Mage: Auuuugh!

The Circle Mage is consumed by Mot.

Ambush! You are ambushed by one wave of Banished Pantheon.
Ravager: Haaaa haaaa... the little mage thinks it can command a god!

Debriefing

None

Death's Toys

Briefing

I have found something you may find interesting, Character. It appears that the Banished Pantheon have acquired some rather powerful artifacts from the Midnighter Club, believing they can use the artifacts to somehow empower Mot.

While I doubt that Mot will be able to feed directly off of the artifacts, and the Midnighters' plight is of no concern to us... the artifacts in the Pantheon's possession are quite valuable. You may find it worthwhile to... acquire them, as it were.

• Steal the Midnighter Artifacts

I thought you might find this opportunity enticing. I will show you where the Pantheon have taken the artifacts. If you hurry, you may be able to take them before Mot's creations manage to break one.

Unnecessary Solicitation

You return to me, Character, but with no artifacts. Was I incorrect? Did the Pantheon manage to break them all before you arrived?

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map Abandoned Warehouse 30 Layout 07 02.png

Map: Abandoned_Warehouse_30_Layout_07_02

You can hear the telltale growling and skittering of Mot's minions about. This must be the place.

• Steal the Midnighter Artifacts
  • 3 artifacts to find
  • Fend off the Banished Pantheon

You have claimed the Midnighters' arcane artifacts as your own.

Enemies

Banished Pantheon

You begin to remove the chest.
You have retrieved the Chest of Everbounty.

The Chest of Everbounty

This chest is said to be a permanent font of wealth, as no matter how many jewels and gemstones are pulled from it, it is never emptied. While this is technically true, you have found that it is not quite 'full' either, and you're not sure you'd be willing to get rich plucking gemstones from the chest one at a time.

You turn the skulls on the altar in the direction of the exit.
You have sent the Altar of Compulsion to a predetermined location.

The Altar of Compulsion

Most who hear of the Altar of Compulsion believe it to be involved in rituals intended to affect the minds of others. Not so. This altar is called the Altar of Compulsion not because it compels others, but because the altar itself can be compelled. You're guessing the Banished Pantheon were disappointed when they discovered the Altar's purpose; especially so if they carried it all the way here.

You carefully remove the stone tablet bearing the runes.
You have extracted the Runes of Makhan.

The Runes of Makhan

This appears to be the only artifact of real value that the Banished Pantheon stole. Makhan was once a powerful warlock, and his runes hold the key to his demonic powers. Deciphering them would be a challenge, but whoever did so would reap great rewards.

Ambush! An ambush occurs when the last artifact is stolen.
Ancient of Death: That magic is not yours to claim, thief. Your life is forfeit.

Debriefing

None

To Catch a CHARACTER

Briefing

Ah, Character. You're here. I half-expected that the Talons would have finished their ritual by now.

As it turns out, the Talons of Vengeance have been preparing to summon one of their adversaries into their lair, where they can ambush her and get rid of her for good. I only just received word that their latest target was going to be you, Character. Now, far be it from me to tell you what to do, but I would think this little tidbit of information demands some sort of reaction, don't you?

• Ambush the Talons of Vengeance

Mmm, I thought as much. I can direct you to where they are hosting the ritual meant to summon you into their trap. Perhaps with a little initiative, you could spring the trap on them first, yes?

Unnecessary Solicitation

The longer you dawdle, the more likely the Talons will complete their ritual. It should make for convenient transportation, to be sure, but I doubt that compulsory summoning is your preferred method of travel.

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map SmoothCaves 30 Layout 03.png

Map: SmoothCaves_30_Layout_03

The Talons want to confront you here? Well, they got what they wanted.

• Ambush the Talons of Vengeance
  • Destroy the Portal of Summoning
  • Punish the Talons of Vengeance

You have destroyed the Portal of Summoning, and taught the Talons of Vengeance a lesson in humility.
Thanks, Character. I don't know what the world would do without you.

Enemies

Talons of Vengeance

Portal Guard Dialogue

Before Combat:

Elementalist: Soon, the oathbreaker will pay for his / her crimes...

Combat Start:

Reviler: No! This is wrong! It is not ready!

Ambush! You are ambushed by one wave of Talons of Vengeance after destroying the portal
Siren: Character is here! What has happened?

Debriefing

None

Two Birds

Briefing

We arrive at a moment of opportunity, Character. The Tsoo, in all of their wisdom, have decided to strike at the newly-formed Knives of Vengeance, in an attempt to clear the field of Dark Astoria, as it were. In this task, they are overmatched, and the Knives are poised to gain ground against their attackers.

This, of course, means the Tsoo have become desperate. Desperate enough to accept the help of one that clearly does not have their best interests at heart... I'm sure you understand my meaning?

• Eliminate the Competition

You will find the Tsoo and the Knives fighting in a series of underground cave networks nearby. I have no doubt that you will be the only one to emerge from those caves.

Unnecessary Solicitation

The Tsoo and the Knives remain strong, Character. Do you not see a chance here, to weaken two enemies at once?

Mission Objective(s)

File:Map SmoothCaves 45 Layout 07.png

Map: SmoothCaves_45_Layout_07

You can hear the sounds of fighting in the distance. You expect that will end soon, now that you have arrived.

• Eliminate the Competition
  • 4 Tsoo to rescue
  • Weaken your allies (optional)
  • Talk to the Tsoo
  • Defeat your former allies

You have eliminated both the Knives of Vengeance and the Tsoo from the area, weakening both forces and paving the way for your future plans.

Enemies

Knives of Vengeance

Tsoo

Tsoo Dialogue

Before Combat:

Far Fire: Foul creatures! You will assist the dark god no longer!

Combat Start:

Far Fire: Y...you! What are you doing here?

---

Before Combat:

Ancestral Sorceress: You will not win this day!

Combat Start:

Ancestral Sorceress: Character! I did not expect...

---

Before Combat:

Copper Serpent: We... we are lost...

Combat Start:

Copper Serpent: Of all the saviors I could have imagined, Character, you were near the last.

---

Before Combat:

Serpent Blue Ink Man: Why do you assist the dark god? WHY?

Combat Start:

Serpent Blue Ink Man: I cannot defeat them alone! Assist me!

Editor's Note:

Rescued Tsoo become NPC Allies.

Far Fire

Briefing

You have our thanks, Character. No matter what your motives were in coming here, know that we are grateful for your intervention.

• My motives? You'll learn my motives soon enough...

The Tsoo recoils from you.

I sense your killing intent, Character. It appears the Knives of Vengeance were not your target this day...

• Not my only one, no.

Debriefing

None