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|name=John Houston, WSPDR Journalist
|name=John Houston, WSPDR Journalist
|image=JohnHouston.png
|image=JohnHouston.png
|img_capt={{missing}}
|img_capt=WSPDR Journalist
|zone=[[Independence Port]]
|zone=[[Independence Port]]
|x=X|y=Y|z=Z
|x=-868.2|y=0.0|z=-3856.4
|levels=40-44
|levels=40-44
|introed=None, Walk-up
|introed=None
|intros=None
|enemies={{Enemy Warriors}}{{Enemy The Family}}{{Enemy Port Noble Citizen's Brigade}}{{Enemy Council}}{{Enemy Striga's Sentinels}}{{Enemy Freaklok}}{{Enemy Freakshow}}{{Enemy Paragon Police}}{{Enemy Tsoo}}{{Enemy Hero Corps}}
|enemies={{missing}}
|badges=[[File:Badge_storyarc_houston_H.png|22px]] [[Pollster Badge|Pollster]]<br />[[File:Badge storyarc houston R.png|22px]] [[Underdog Badge|Underdog]]
|badges=[[File:HoustonBadgeHeroComplete.png|22px]] [[Pollster Badge|Pollster]]<br />[[File:HoustonBadgeRogueComplete.png|22px]] [[Underdog Badge|Underdog]]
}}
}}


{{Contact Overview|Name=John Houston|City=R|Zone=Independence Port|Pronoun=his|HoodYN=N|OriginYN=N|LevelYN=Y|Level=40-44}}
{{Contact Overview|Name=John Houston|City=R|Zone=Independence Port|x=-868|y=0|z=-3856|Pronoun=his|HoodYN=Y|Hood=Crey Cove|OriginYN=N|LevelYN=Y|Level=40-44}}


__Toc__
__Toc__
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=== Information ===
=== Information ===
{{missing}}


=== Prior to Introduction ===
'''WSPDR Journalist'''
{{missing}}
 
John Houston is an unscrupulous news reporter formerly with the [[Total Praetorian Network|TPN]], now with WSPDR, who will do anything for a story. He's here in Paragon City following a major lead on something, but he's been very picky with his clientele, stating that the 'risk of negative press' requires a certain caliber of temperament. How he convinced the city to let him in on a press pass is just plain impressive. He must have some decent credentials.
 
=== Wrong Alignment ===
 
Ooh. You look like you could help, but I need to know a little bit more before I can trust you. Hopefully someone else, or your exploits around here, will vouch for the substance of your character.


=== Initial Contact ===
=== Initial Contact ===


{{missing}}
{{darkorange|John Houston has all the smug confidence you've come to expect from a person who made a name for themselves in Praetoria. His well-put together outfit, his straightened teeth, his slick haircut... it would be one thing to put out that image in Founder's Falls, but this fellow is set up in the dusty industrial bits of Independence Port's shores, sticking out like a sore thumb. Classic Praetorian refugee.}}
 
Hey, {{Character}}! You're here! I'm so glad you showed up. Look, there's some high-powered weird shenanigans going on in the political sphere here in Paragon. You probably know that I'm working for WSPDR, so if this pans out. we're going to be going far beyond the Freedom Phalanx media distortions. Rest assured, there's going to be no spin here - I'm after good old-fashioned truth, an expos&eacute; on the worst kind of corruption - assaults on democracy itself! You ready to wade into the mire of political humbuggery and get famous for it?
 
=== Greeting ===
 
This is big, {{Character}}, really big. It's also carrying the stench of corruption all over it, and you're probably going to get a little on yourself too. If you're down to get involved in something massive and potentially dirty, hit me up.


=== Too Busy ===
=== Too Busy ===
{{missing}}
 
Wow. The rumors about you were true - you're eager and prone to overworking yourself! Come back when you have less commitments out there.


=== Too Low Level ===
=== Too Low Level ===
{{missing}}
 
I only work with the best, {{Character}}, and you have a little more to go before I add your name to the list. Come back when you're at least Security Level 40.


=== No More Missions ===
=== No More Missions ===
{{missing}}
 
I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm out of leads! Thanks for everything, {{Character}}!


== Store ==
== Store ==
*None


== Story Arc ==
== Story Arc ==
{{missing}}
=== {{UL|Noble Intentions}} ===
{{ArcAward|m=20}}
==== Souvenir ====
{{divbox|blue|Hero Path|
 
{{Souvenir | Hanging Chad Vote Ballot}}


}}
{{divbox|red|Rogue Path|


=== {{UL|Noble Intentions}} ===
{{Souvenir | Record Winning Betting Ticket}}
{{missing}}
==== Souvenir ====
{{missing}}


}}
{{Mission:Noble Intentions - Chapter One: Muckraking}}
{{Mission:Noble Intentions - Chapter Two: Port Noble Polling}}
{{Mission:Noble Intentions - Chapter Three: Sheep Throat}}
{{Mission:Noble Intentions - Interlude: Fundraising}} (Rogue Only)
{{Mission:Noble Intentions - Chapter Four: Data Dump}}
{{Mission:Noble Intentions - Chapter Four-and-a-Half : A Not-So-Quiet Riot}}
{{Mission:Noble Intentions - Chapter Five: Unnatural Election}}


==See Also==
==See Also==
* [[Homecoming Story Arcs]]
* [[Homecoming Story Arcs]]

Latest revision as of 00:24, 14 October 2024

This article is a stub. You can help the Wiki by expanding it.

Overview

John Houston, WSPDR Journalist
JohnHouston.png
WSPDR Journalist
Zone Independence Port
Coordinates (-868.2, 0.0, -3856.4)[Copy]
Level Range 40-44
Introduced By None
Enemy Groups
Badges Badge storyarc houston H.png Pollster
Badge storyarc houston R.png Underdog
v • d • e

John Houston is a rogue contact in the Crey Cove neighborhood of Independence Port at coordinates (-868, 0, -3856)[Copy] . His level range is 40-44.

Introductions

Contact Introduced By

None, walk-up.

Contact Introduces

None

Information

WSPDR Journalist

John Houston is an unscrupulous news reporter formerly with the TPN, now with WSPDR, who will do anything for a story. He's here in Paragon City following a major lead on something, but he's been very picky with his clientele, stating that the 'risk of negative press' requires a certain caliber of temperament. How he convinced the city to let him in on a press pass is just plain impressive. He must have some decent credentials.

Wrong Alignment

Ooh. You look like you could help, but I need to know a little bit more before I can trust you. Hopefully someone else, or your exploits around here, will vouch for the substance of your character.

Initial Contact

John Houston has all the smug confidence you've come to expect from a person who made a name for themselves in Praetoria. His well-put together outfit, his straightened teeth, his slick haircut... it would be one thing to put out that image in Founder's Falls, but this fellow is set up in the dusty industrial bits of Independence Port's shores, sticking out like a sore thumb. Classic Praetorian refugee.

Hey, Character! You're here! I'm so glad you showed up. Look, there's some high-powered weird shenanigans going on in the political sphere here in Paragon. You probably know that I'm working for WSPDR, so if this pans out. we're going to be going far beyond the Freedom Phalanx media distortions. Rest assured, there's going to be no spin here - I'm after good old-fashioned truth, an exposé on the worst kind of corruption - assaults on democracy itself! You ready to wade into the mire of political humbuggery and get famous for it?

Greeting

This is big, Character, really big. It's also carrying the stench of corruption all over it, and you're probably going to get a little on yourself too. If you're down to get involved in something massive and potentially dirty, hit me up.

Too Busy

Wow. The rumors about you were true - you're eager and prone to overworking yourself! Come back when you have less commitments out there.

Too Low Level

I only work with the best, Character, and you have a little more to go before I add your name to the list. Come back when you're at least Security Level 40.

No More Missions

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm out of leads! Thanks for everything, Character!

Store

Story Arc

Noble Intentions

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 20 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

Hero Path


Hanging Chad Vote Ballot

This vote ballot with a hanging chad still attached reminds you of the episode you refer to as

Noble Intentions

You had run into John Houston, a Praetorian refugee who had made a career for himself as a reporter at WSPDR of Cap au Diable. When you found him in Independence Port, he was desperate for help. Desperate enough to hire you on to locate a source of his who had been captured by the Warriors.

John's source turned out to be another Praetorian refugee, a woman called 'Tunnel Rat'. The warriors had grabbed her since they believed she had information on someone called 'Alexander the Great', one of their former members. Alexander Pavlidis was going into politics, and Tunnel Rat had learned that he was getting in with some bad bedfellows from Striga called the Port Noble Citizens Brigade. John Houston put you on retainer and asked you to head to Striga to interview the locals.

Talking to some Striga personalities you learned that the citizens brigade was just a front for the Council, laying low after their volcano lair was all but destroyed by the New Praetorians and the US navy. The Council were running some kind of operation out of a warehouse in the docks and recent visits by Archon Burkholder meant that it had to be something big. John informed you that another Praetorian was involved, a Dr. Arvin.

Inside the warehouse you found a secret laboratory where Dr. Arvin and Archon Burkholder were involved in a couple of big operations. Project 'Hanging Chad' - a plot to influence elections with compromised voting machines, and Project 'Predatore' which turned out to be a new type of supersoldier serum derived from the same concoction that empowered Marauder during the Praetorian war. Your investigation was interrupted by some local heroes: Dr. Todd and Ravenstorm of the Striga Sentinels. They were prepared to arrest you on sight but you convinced them that the threat of a new supersoldier prototype was great enough that you should join forces. The prototype was a beast of a fighter but in the end you prevailed, and earned the grudging respect of the heroes.

Back in Paragon City, John informed you that Alexander Pavlidis had just been attacked at his final pre-election rally, and the Warriors were holding him hostage. John couldn't let the main actor in his big scoop get killed before he could be exposed, so you dared the chaos of the riots that had engulfed Talos Island to recover the man.

Come the big day of the election, John had no more work for you, so you took it upon yourself to find the Council's vote fraud headquarters. Dr. Todd of Striga helped you track it down to a new base in Boomtown, and she and Ravenstorm joined you to bring an end to the Council's plans, and to save democracy. With Dr. Arvin arrested and the voter fraud exposed, Alexander Pavlidis' campaign crashed and burned. Alexander held one last press conference to proclaim his innocence and that he had been the target of the Council's vote tampering without his knowledge or approval. He declared that he was not going to run in the re-election, but was 'going back to the streets' to deal with the evil ways of David 'Odysseus' Hill in a hands-on fashion.


Rogue Path


Record Winning Betting Ticket

You kept the ticket from a bet you placed that turned out to be the record payout for a political wager in the history of St. Martial gambling establishments. It and the money you made serves well to remind you of the episode you call

Noble Intentions

You had run into John Houston, a Praetorian refugee who had made a career for himself as a reporter at WSPDR of Cap Au Diable. When you found him in Independence Port, he was desperate for help. Desperate enough to hire you on to locate a source of his who had been captured by the Warriors.

John's source turned out to be another Praetorian refugee, a woman named 'Tunnel Rat'. The warriors had grabbed her since they believed she had information on someone called 'Alexander the Great', one of their former members. Alexander Pavlidis was going into politics, and Tunnel Rat had learned that he was getting in with some bad bedfellows from Striga called the Port Noble Citizens Brigade. John Houston put you on retainer and asked you to head to Striga to interview the locals.

Talking to some Striga personalities you learned that the citizens brigade was just a front for the Council, laying low after their volcano lair was all but destroyed by the New Praetorians and the US navy. The Council were running some kind of operation out of a warehouse in the docks and recent visits by Archon Burkholder meant that it had to be something big. John informed you that another Praetorian was involved, a Dr. Arvin.

Inside the warehouse you found a secret laboratory where Dr. Arvin and Archon Burkholder were involved in a couple of big operations. Project 'Hanging Chad' - a plot to influence elections with compromised voting machines, and Project 'Predatore' which turned out to be a new type of supersoldier serum derived from the same concoction that empowered Marauder during the Praetorian war. Your investigation was interrupted by some local heroes: Dr. Todd and Ravenstorm of the Striga Sentinels. They were prepared to arrest you on sight but you were not about to let some heroes get in the way of your business. You sent them back to their base via medi-porter, and escaped the scene via Dr. Arvin's personal submarine, the 'Steel Caterpillar'. You still had more plans for Striga, however, so you put John on hold while you worked on your own scheme to monetize this election scam. First you relieved the Family and the Warriors of their surplus riches, robbing the Family money ship and the Warrior stash house to get some extra funds. Then you brought your haul back to St. Martial to place it all on a high-stakes bet on an unlikely election outcome.

Once you returned to Paragon City, John informed you that Alexander Pavlidis had just been attacked at his final pre-election rally, and the Warriors were holding him hostage. You couldn't let your golden goose get killed before your plans came to fruition, so you dared the chaos of the riots that had engulfed Talos Island to recover the man.

Come the big day of the election, your prepared to complete the last step of your grand plan. You convinced Tunnel Rat to help you find the Council's vote fraud headquarters and tracked it down to a new base in Boomtown. As you made your way inside, Dr. Todd and Ravenstorm returned for round two, in a desperate attempt to save democracy. You could not let them hinder your plans, and once again sent them packing.

You confronted Dr. Arvin and convinced him to save his own life by adjusting the votes in your favor, and make your write-in candidate the winner. You and Dr. Arvin watched the local news to see the Can Man, a popular local lunatic, getting sworn in on a first edition of the 'Statesman & The Freedom Phalanx' comic book, and declaring his intent to finish the rocket launch pad to bring Paragon City's special style of justice to the moon.

You left Dr. Arvin alive for the Council to find, and hurried to cash in the winnings of your high-stakes bet: the Can Man to win the election for city councilman. This would sadly mark the end of political bets at St. Martial casinos, after the Family finally figured out where the money for the bet came from.

Chapter One: Muckraking

Briefing

John is looking uncharacteristically sweaty and is constantly checking his appearance in the news van's rear view mirror.

I'm not going to lie, Character, not this time. There's too much at risk. I'll be frank with you - I'm nervous. Not for my sake, of course, but for my source. I was supposed to meet them to get some information they couldn't deliver over the phone. Hush-hush stuff. Very confidential. Top secret!

I was late for our meeting, and when I arrived I heard voices, so I stayed calm and collected and approached cautiously. I only caught a glimpse of them in the dim light but I recognized them. They were Warriors, and they had my source! I watched helplessly as they dragged her into one of those nasty sewers. There was nothing I could do, I'm sure you agree. I'm not a hero or even an anti-hero, but I can't give up on a source. It's just not done. So I need you to go down there and bring her back. The information she's got is of vital public interest.

  • Save the girl, save democracy? Sure, I'll do it. For a price.

Save the girl, save democracy? Sure, I'll do it. For a price.

Of course, of course, I know your reputation. I'm putting you on retainer, Character. Once we have confirmed that information I'm sure I can use your services again. Now please hurry, I don't want to have to report on yet another innocent victim of Paragon City gang crime.

Unnecessary Solicitation

I can't understand why the Warriors would go after my source. She's a Praetorian refugee like me, and she's not one to draw any attention. Maybe one day I can get an interview with some Warriors to find out what makes them tick. But this is not that day. Go on, Character, find my source!

Mission Objective(s)

Clearly visible tracks in the foul muck. John's source is leaving a trail for you to follow. Clever girl.

  • Recover the source
    • Find Houston's Source
      • Get Tunnel Rat to safety
      • Speak with Tunnel Rat

You have rescued Tunnel Rat and acquired the information Houston wanted.

Enemies

Warriors

Notable NPCs

Warriors Chatter
Captured Tunnel Rat

Ambush! Upon rescuing Tunnel Rat, three waves of Warriors will spawn.

Warrior Ambushes
Speak with Tunnel Rat

Debriefing

You found her? I knew it was a good idea to hire you. I understand why she didn't want to be seen with me. Tunnel Rat isn't one for the spotlight - or any light, really. Wait, she said I smelled bad?

You're good at this. I'm starting to feel like I'm back home. It's comfortable.

Clue
Noble Intentions

John's source turned out to be another Praetorian refugee, a woman called 'Tunnel Rat'. The warriors had grabbed her since they believed she had information on someone called 'Alexander the Great', one of their former members. Alexander Pavlidis was going into politics, and Tunnel Rat had learned that he was getting in with some bad bedfellows from Striga called the Port Noble Citizens Brigade. John Houston put you on retainer and asked you to head to Striga to interview the locals.


Chapter Two: Port Noble Polling

Briefing

Somehow the Warriors knew what Tunnel Rat had found. Or they thought they knew. It's useless to speculate on what exactly they knew now. I'm just glad Tunnel Rat is safe, and I'm grateful that she didn't want to bring more heat down on me by meeting up personally. Now, let me tell you a bit about what I've been working on.

A councilwoman by the name of Simmons was recently forced to step down in disgrace after it came out that she was involved with organized crime. The Frost Family had been supplying her security when she was being threatened by another gang... Frankly, it was a whole mess that spiraled into a journalist's dream... and I missed it all!

Anyway, now her seat on the council is up for a special election, and this being Paragon City, such a position comes with more power than your usual city council seat.

The most interesting candidate is the man called Alexander Pavlidis, also known as Alexander the Great. He's a former gang member gone straight. You'll never guess which gang... That's right, the Warriors. Mr. Pavlidis runs a populist platform tough on gang crime, and despite all the controversies around his person and campaign, polling data shows that he is a potential contender. Tunnel Rat telling me to look into him confirms what I already believed: he is dirty.

Character, I'm going to ask you to go to Striga for me, to do some interviews with the locals.

  • Accept the request to interview Striga locals

We need to find out more about the 'Port Noble Citizens Brigade'. They are a group who show up at Mr. Pavlidis' rallies to show him support. They claim they are protecting their candidate from violent counter-protestors, but the violence only seems to occur when they are present. Striga citizens aren't even allowed to vote in this election, so what is their real agenda? Here, put on this bodycam so I can watch what happens from now on. I might be able to give you some pointers on where to go and what to say.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Remember to keep your camera running at all times!

Mission Objective(s)

The Council's volcano base may have been destroyed, but Port Noble's docks are still a hotbed of criminal activity and clashing gangs.

  • Interview Striga locals
    • Speak with the PNCB Leader
    • Find Stephanie Peebles
    • Speak with Long Jack
    • Rescue Old Toby
    • Ask Lars about photos
    • Lay Low in the Bar
    • 3 gang leaders to defeat (optional) (Hero or Rogue)

The Striga locals had nothing good to say about the Port Noble citizens brigade. John Houston requested that you investigate further.

Enemies

The Family
Warriors

Neutral

Port Noble Citizen's Brigade

Notable NPCs

PNCB Brigadier General Greeting
PNCB Brigadier General
Briefing

The Port Noble Civilian Brigadier General looks at you and nods, as if to say 'Yes, that'll work'.

Greetings, Character. You've come at an interesting time in Striga Isle's storied history. We're having a bit of a... domestic event here. Seems that the United States Armed Forces withdrew about as quickly as they showed up, leaving a massive mess of a situation as the Council dissolves and the other gangs attempt to reassert control. Typical.

  • Not a fan of the American War Doctrine?

The Brigadier General snorts out a laugh.

On the contrary, I find their rough-and-tumble shoot-first-and-ask-questions-never approach to problem solving to be quite endearing. When, of course, you're not in its way. I can say that it gets results, when you're outside of the storm. But being in the way of the storm? It's rough.

The Brigadier General exhales and focuses his breath.

Apologies, I've been a little under the weather lately, and street warfare doesn't help it much. What business brings you to our beleagured shores?

The Brigadier General whips out a fancy-looking inhaler and takes a pump.

  • I'm here for a little tourism, a few drinks. (Lie)
Well if that's the case, there's always the Mermaid's Tavern. I've never been, but everyone keeps telling me their Pineapple Whip is one of the best drinks they've ever had. They also have the Flamin' Warcry, served in a Council robot cranium, but that's too much for me. You'll find it just northeast of here. Keep your head low and don't engage the gangs, and you should be fine.
The Brigadier General eyeballs you from top to bottom quickly.
Unless of course, you're here for trouble... and we don't take kindly to homewreckers. Don't try to 'save' us, Character, some of us take umbrage to being looked at as though we can't save ourselves.
  • I'll be fine, and I promise I won't be a pain.
  • Fame and glory. Looking to flex on the Family and Warriors. (Rogue)
The Brigadier General raises an eyebrow.
Oh, a social influencer are ya? Let's try to keep the majority of your stunts Striga-Positive. I don't need slanderous edited video surfacing on ClikClak because you need a new sponsor. If you want to do me and my people any kindnesses, rooting some of these gangs out would be a great start. Let me mark your map.
Don't mistake my kindness for weakness. We don't need a hero. Don't try to 'save' us, Character, some of us take umbrage to being looked at as though we can't save ourselves.
  • Understood! Make sure the paparazzi knows I'm here!
The Brigadier General waves you on.
Go on then, and don't do anything we'll both regret later. Okay?
  • Close window.
  • I heard there was trouble. I'm here to solve it. (Heroic)
The Brigadier General raises an eyebrow.
Oh, a problem-solver eh? Let's try to keep the majority of your solutions to words-only. If you're going to solve any problems for me, there are a few holdouts of concentrated gang activity around here. If you want to do me and my people any kindnesses, rooting these boneheads out would be a great start. Let me mark your map.
Don't mistake my kindness for weakness. We don't need a hero. Don't try to 'save' us, Character, some of us take umbrage to being looked at as though we can't save ourselves.
  • The people of Striga will not live in fear!
The Brigadier General waves you on.
Go on then, and don't do anything we'll both regret later. Okay?
  • Close window.
Gang Chatter
Gang Leaders
Stephanie Peebles
Clue
Stephanie's insight

According to the old witch who owns 'The Mermaid' tavern, the Port Noble Citizens Brigade are nothing less than wolves in sheep's clothing. The Council, dressed up in suits and ties, laying low and waiting for a moment to rise back to power.

Long Jack
Clue
Long Jack's dismissal

Before he sent you packing, Long Jack pointed out a certain warehouse as the potential headquarters of the Port Noble Citizens Brigade. All their activities seemed focused around the unusually large building. It could be worth looking into.

Tobias 'Old Toby' Hansen
Clue
Toby's Interrogation

'Old Toby' was having some trouble with the Family when you found him. He all but confirmed that the Brigade members he had patched up in that makeshift hospital all seemed to be sporting some questionable tattoos affirming their allegiance to outdated political views. But more importantly to you, he revealed that the Family and the Warriors both have had some logistics problems recently. Specifically their coffers are brimming with ill-gotten gains that they haven't been able to transport off of the island during the US navy's visit, which is why both gangs are all up in each others business and more twitchy than usual.

Lars Hansen
That is Dr. Arvin, another refugee from Praetoria.
He helped my sister once with a delicate problem.
But what is he doing here, working with the brigade? And Burkholder?
You are going to have to take a closer look at that warehouse, Character.
Clue
Lars' Reconnaissance

You met Lars Hansen up on a roof, 'birdwatching' as he called it. The pictures he was taking were far more interesting than the local wildlife, unless that wildlife includes dignitaries like Archon Burkholder. His surveillance of the warehouse the Port Noble Citizens Brigade were guarding had let him spot Burkholder coming and going, and when he left it was with Dr. Arvin, another Praetorian refugee John recognized. John's curiosity was peaked, and he asked you to stay on Striga to take a look inside that warehouse.

Editor's Note:
Align Status Rogue.png
Selecting the Rogue option when talking to the PNCB Brigadier General and completing all the objectives will award the character one Rogue Alignment Point.

Debriefing

You pulled back to the Mermaid Tavern to shake loose some of the attention you had drawn during your brief visit to Port Noble. Ms. Peebles was as congenial as ever, albeit a bit standoffish. Considering her usual clientele she shouldn't be turning her nose up at you like that, especially if she wanted you to do something about the so-called 'citizens brigade'. Regardless, the clam chowder was excellent, and the bootleg booze she served up with it must have fallen off some Crey executive's yacht because it was top shelf stuff. Unfortunately reality came calling all too soon, in the form of John Houston's well modulated voice in your ear.

Clue
Noble Intentions

John's source turned out to be another Praetorian refugee, a woman called 'Tunnel Rat'. The warriors had grabbed her since they believed she had information on someone called 'Alexander the Great', one of their former members. Alexander Pavlidis was going into politics, and Tunnel Rat had learned that he was getting in with some bad bedfellows from Striga called the Port Noble Citizens Brigade. John Houston put you on retainer and asked you to head to Striga to interview the locals.

Talking to some Striga personalities you learned that the citizens brigade was just a front for the Council, laying low after their volcano lair was all but destroyed by the New Praetorians and the US navy. The Council were running some kind of operation out of a warehouse in the docks and recent visits by Archon Burkholder meant that it had to be something big. John informed you that another Praetorian was involved, a Dr. Arvin. You decided to wait till nightfall to investigate the Council's warehouse.


Chapter Three: Sheep Throat

Briefing

It was a good idea to lay low at the Mermaid, but it won't hide you forever. You should relocate to a less obvious location A.S.A.P., like a fishing barge or a derelict shanty. Something less classy. Once it gets dark you can find a way inside that warehouse.

  • I know what I'm doing, Houston.

I know what' I'm doing, Houston.

Of course, of course! You're the professional. I just wanted to remind you that I'm not paying for you to spend hours at the local tavern. I need information, Character, and I need it now! In the news business time isn't just money - it's the whole business. If you're not first with the latest, you're nothing. So pretty please with a cherry on top, get back to work.

Unnecessary Solicitation

John is keeping quiet on his end so as not to bother you while you are investigating the Port Noble citizens brigade's headquarters.

Mission Objective(s)

During your stakeout, the ship repositioned itself in the bay. You should explore and regain your bearings.

  • Investigate the PNCB HQ
    • Find a way into the PNCB HQ
      • Find the entrance
      • Search for clues
      • Find a use for Arvin's password
    • Unseal the blast door
      • Make hostage open the blast door
    • Access Council Database
    • Defend yourself from Striga's Sentinels
      • Speak to Ravenstorm and/or Dr. Todd
    • Access the Lowest Level (Hero)
      • Eliminate the Supersoldier
      • Use the nearby exit!
    • Defeat the heroes! (Rogue)
      • 3 groups to clear on the docks!
      • Escape to Arvin's Sub

You have learned about the Council's plot to tamper with the voting machines and fraudulently elect their stooge, Alexander Pavlidis, to the city council!

Enemies

Port Noble Citizen's Brigade
Council
Striga's Sentinels

Notable NPCs

Secret Entrance Guards
PNCB Computer Guards
Clue
A blood-stained note

You picked up a piece of paper supposedly holding Dr. Arvin's password. It just says 'Bobcat'.

Editor's Note:

Once the player has defeated the spawn that grants the clue, they will need to click the computer glowie to expose the secret portal to continue the mission.

You hear the rumble of a false wall disengaging!

Council Chatter
Council Digging Team
Council Database
Striga's Sentinels
Hero Path
Ally with Striga's Sentinels
Clue
Striga's Sentinels

Ravenstorm and Dr. Todd were drawn to the Council lab when your tampering with the computers set off the alarms. Apparently they had been keeping the Council under surveillance for some time and your intrusion was messing up their operation. You offered to join forces and take down the supersoldier test subject together.

Clue
Dynamic Trio

Ravenstorm and Dr. Todd, along with Moonfire the Peacebringer, form a local coalition known as Striga's Sentinels, a group dedicated to keeping crime on Striga Isle under control. It's a task that has been made more difficult since the shock-and-awe blitz by the New Praetorians toppled Calvin Scott's alliance with the Council, followed by their inconsiderate departure leaving Striga reeling from the fallout.

Lower Level
Rogue Path

+++ Missing Information +++

Debriefing

This is groundbreaking news, Character, simply groundbreaking. Heads will roll once this gets out, and I'm the one with the scoop. In your face, Ms. Vines! This is what you can accomplish if you don't let things like scruples hold you back.

You and me, we're going to blow this whole thing wide open. It's gonna be epic!


Interlude: Fundraising

Editor's Note:
Align Status Rogue.png
Only those who have chosen the Rogue Path during this arc get this mission chain. Those who chose the Hero path move immediately onto the next part.

Briefing

With the voting machine schematics in your possession you consider your options. There has to be a way to make a profit from this, and you think you know how. First you will need some untraceable cash, and fortunately Striga is brimming with money right now. Both the Warriors and the Family have overflowing coffers they haven't been able to ship back to the mainland due to the recent US military intervention.

All right, Character, you can come back home now. I will need to go through that data you downloaded, maybe pass it along to some experts to confirm what we already know. This story has to be rock solid before I make it official. Nothing must go wrong.

  • John, can you give me some time to clean up personal business?
Oh, of course, of course, take your time! I wouldn't dream of trying to rush you, you're the professional. Just remember that I really need that data as soon as possible. Maybe sooner.


(Rogue Only)

Chapter Four: Data Dump

Briefing

Finally, you're back. Do you have the data? Let me see it!

  • Bring John the data (in person).

Can't risk this data over any kind of network. Sorry, but you'll have to bring it to me directly.

Its quite amusing to consider that the universe that bested Praetoria has largely unregulated data networks and can still entrust data devices like CDs to be an effective means of communication. Its like an episode of Black Swan's Shrouded Zone series.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Character! I had almost thought you forgot about me, or that something terrible had happened to the data - to you! Where are you?

Mission Objective(s)

  • Deliver the data to John (in person)

Chapter Four-and-a-Half : A Not-So-Quiet Riot

Briefing

John loads the files into his laptop and gives it a cursory glance.

This looks great. Terrible. Very great and terrible. I'm going to let an expert have a look at this while I start preparing for-

John is interrupted by his phone. John taps his headset to pick up the call.

Speak! What? Now? Where? I'm on the way!

That was my contact on Alexander Pavlidis' campaign staff. He's just been abducted by the Warriors! He was holding a final pre-election rally on Talos Island, the Warriors' home turf, and it's turned into a warzone. According to his campaign manager the Warriors rushed the conference center where Pavlidis was giving a speech, and simply grabbed him. We can't let them kill our candidate before we can ruin him with the truth! Get in the van, Vengeance is Yours! I'll drive you there and then loop around to pick you up in a few minutes, unless everything goes bottoms up. But I have a good feeling about this!

  • I've seen what happens when you drive, John.

I work best under pressure. Besides, this time I'm not running for my life from terrorists. I'm running to report the truth, as I see it.

John leaps into the driver's seat and revs the engine.

Come on, Character, it's time to make some news! I'll take you right to the Campaign Headquarters and loop around. This should be quick and easy, right?

  • My body is not ready for this...

Unnecessary Solicitation

John is too busy driving to hold a conversation, unless you count the steadily muttered stream of profanities directed at other drivers, pedestrians and the odd fence that gets in his way.

Mission Objective(s)

The smoke of molotovs and the sting of tear gas hangs heavy in the air over Talos Island this day. Counterprotesters are clashing with the Port Noble Citizens Brigade and the Paragon Police Department are struggling to contain the violence. This convention center is more or less abandoned.

  • Riots in Talos!
    • Free the Campaign Manager
    • Gain Entry to the Hostage Building
    • Rescue Alexander
    • 5 riot leaders to defeat (Optional)

You have rescued Alexander the Great from The Warriors and possibly gained a powerful friend.

Enemies

Warriors
Council
Freakshow
Tsoo
Paragon Police Department
Port Noble Citizen's Brigade
Hero Corps

Neutral

Freaklok

Notable NPCs

Campaign Manager
Rioters Chatter
Riot Leaders Chatter
Alexander's Guards

Aegialeus

Repeat these words into the camera: I, Alexander Pavlidis, denounce my xenophobic policies, my statements regarding the Praetorian refugees, and my false accusations of smuggling and organized crime on Striga island.

Warrior Propagandist

Say it, traitor!

Alexander Pavlidis

...

Aegialeus

Furthermore, I wish to make it known that The Warriors are to be praised for all their civil justice work, their civic courage, honor and morality, and for all the good they have done for the community.

Alexander Pavlidis

.....

Aegialeus

Finally, I hereby declare my resignation as a candidate and dissolve my campaign. Any remaining funds shall be donated to the David Hill Society for the Promotion of Greek Values, and...

Alexander Pavlidis

Now, wait just one !@$#**& minute...!

Warrior Propagandist

There's the man behind the smile. Let's rumble!
Alexander Pavlidis

Debriefing

That was crazy. I was afraid our story was yesterday's news before it could even become current events. But you pulled through and pulled Alexander's feet out of the fire. You saved our golden goose. Now we will find out if it lays golden eggs. Let me just catch my breath first.


Chapter Five: Unnatural Election (Hero)

Briefing

All right, I think that's all the excitement over with, and not a moment too soon. I will be covering the election live but I don't need you to watch over me anymore and I don't have any dangerous investigations left for you to handle. So I guess this is where we go our separate ways. It's been a wild and crazy experience, for sure. You will find your fee in your bank account as soon as I cash my bonus for this scoop.

You part ways with John and turn your attention to the matter you cannot let stand: The Council have an operation to upset democracy, and on your watch you cannot let that abide.

  • See you around, John.

You need to find out where the Council are running their operation from, their project 'Hanging Chad'. They need a central location from which to transmit the necessary codes to the voting machines that have been installed all over the city. You don't even hesitate, and immediately set your sights on Baumton, where the Council have retreated to many times before. Calling in a favor with Dr. Todd, she was able to confirm there's something new in the Northeast region.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Character? Is that you? I'm really busy right now, the election is under way. Some districts are already reporting numbers. We'll talk later, okay?

Chapter Five: Unnatural Election (Rogue)

Briefing

All right, I think that's all the excitement over with. I will be covering the election live but I don't need you to watch over me anymore and I don't have any dangerous investigations left for you to handle. So I guess this is where we go our separate ways. It's been a wild and crazy experience, for sure. You will find your fee in your bank account as soon as I cash my bonus for this scoop.

You let John think that he can delay your payment but only because you already have a plan to turn this debacle into a highly profitable venture. It's time to steal an election.

  • See you around, John.

You need to find out where the Council are running their operation from, their project 'Hanging Chad'. They need a central location from which to transmit the necessary codes to the voting machines that have been installed all over the city, courtesy of the corrupt election committee. You call in a favor to Tunnel Rat to sniff out if there's fresh movements in Boomtown since you started attacking the Council. She was able to confirm increased activity in the Northeast since you left Striga.

Unnecessary Solicitation

Character? Is that you? I'm really busy right now, the election is under way. Some districts are already reporting numbers. We'll talk later, okay?

Mission Objective

Powerful antennae protrude from the Council base, prepared to transmit coded signals to voting machines all over the city.

  • Steal the Election
    • Eliminate the Base Guardian
    • 4 pieces of the entry code to find!
    • Access the Fraud Center
    • Defeat the Council Supersoldier
    • Bring in Dr. Arvin

You have averted the Council's scheme to elect their pawn to the city council and elected your own candidate instead. John's going to be furious that he missed that story.

Enemies

Council

Notable NPCs

Debriefing

John Houston's voice mail picks up. I'm not available right now, as I'm very busy at my new position as WSPDR's most junior reporter. Currently on assignment in Pleasant Spring Retirement home, where Mrs. Edna Smith has just reached the venerable age of a hundred. Tune in tonight to find out more! And if this is Character calling... it's in the mail. You know what I mian! And furtherm-

The voice mail message gets cut off by a loud beep. You hang up and turn to the bartender to order another round of fancy drinks for you and Tunnel Rat.



See Also

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