Laura Lockhart: Difference between revisions
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|badges=[[File:badge_i22_mission_sc_steelsavior.png|25px]] {{BadgeLink|Steel Savior}}<br />[[File:badge_i22_mission_sc_warhero.png|25px]] {{BadgeLink|War Hero}} | |badges=[[File:badge_i22_mission_sc_steelsavior.png|25px]] {{BadgeLink|Steel Savior}}<br />[[File:badge_i22_mission_sc_warhero.png|25px]] {{BadgeLink|War Hero}}<br />[[File:badge_i25_mission_sc_guardian.png|25px]] {{BadgeLink|Guardian of Forever}} - (Flashback only) | ||
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== Story Arc == | == Story Arc == | ||
{{ArcAward|m=4}} | |||
=== {{UL|Collateral Damage}} === | === {{UL|Collateral Damage}} === | ||
==== Souvenir ==== | ==== Souvenir ==== | ||
{{Souvenir|United Nations Special Service Medal}} | {{Souvenir|United Nations Special Service Medal}} | ||
Latest revision as of 00:04, 2 January 2021
Overview
| Laura Lockhart | |
|---|---|
 UNSF Deprogramming Specialist | |
| Zone | Steel Canyon |
| Coordinates | (-3743.6, -84.0, -522.2) |
| Level Range | 15-24 |
| Introduced By | None |
| Introduces | None |
| Enemy Groups | |
| Badges |
 Steel Savior War Hero Guardian of Forever - (Flashback only) |
Laura Lockhart is a hero contact in the Blyde Square neighborhood of Steel Canyon at coordinates (-3743.6, -84.0, -522.2) . Her level range is 15-24. She is standing about 200 yards east of the Blyde Square marker.
Introductions
Contact Introduced By
None. Laura Lockhart is available through the Find Contact Window or interacting directly with her.
Contact Introduces
None.
Information
UNSF Deprogramming Specialist
Petty Officer Laura Lockhart has gained a reputation for being the top anti-5th Column resource the U.N. has at its disposal. She has spent most of her time deployed in Paragon City, where the Column's influence is the greatest. Known as one of the few people that have managed to break former recruits of the Column's indoctrination process, Laura has pioneered new interrogation methods that are now used the world over.
Prior to Introduction
Missing Prior to Introduction Dialogue
Initial Contact
The young woman seems a bit startled at your approach, but composes herself in time to greet you.
Hi there! Thanks for responding so quickly. I keep forgetting how fast you Hero-types are. Petty Officer Laura Lockhart, UNSF Social Psychology Division. It's a pleasure to meet you, Character.
Laura extends a hand towards you.
- (Shake hands) Likewise. What's this all about?
- 5th Column activity in Paragon City has flared up lately, especially in this district. Something's got them riled up pretty bad, and they've been going to town on all of the local Council regiments. I'm here to try and find out what's causing the surge, and see if I can put a stop to it.
- That's where you come in. I need someone out in the field that can handle themselves in enemy territory. Naturally, recruiting one of the local heroes seemed to be the best option.
- Laura leans in towards you, grinning mischievously.
- So, what do you think? You wanna sign up and take down some fascists?
- Absolutely.
- Alright then!
- Putting on a mock-serious face, Laura snaps to attention and salutes you.
- Petty Officer Laura Lockhart, reporting for duty, sir!
- Sir? Excuse me?
- Just showing my superior officer the proper respect!
- I've got direct orders from Colonel Taggard. Any FBSA-licensed Hero that signs on is hereby assigned the temporary rank of Sergeant, for the duration of this mission. I'm here to advise and provide support, but your butt's the one in the fire, here. This is your operation.
- Laura pauses for a moment, grinning.
- ...Sir.
- Right. Let's get to work then.
- Wait, what? Why should I care if the Council is getting attacked?
- Laura frowns at you.
- Look, even setting aside the fact that the 5th Column are a violently anti-government fringe organization with military firepower operating inside U.S. borders, the fact is that their surge against the Council is causing some serious collateral damage. You can't start a war in the middle of a business district and avoid civilian casualties - not that the Column is trying. As far as they're concerned, innocent bystanders are just bonus points.
- Laura stares at you, hard.
- If you want to let people like that run amok in your city, then I guess that's all we have to say to each other. I'm hoping that you care a little bit more than that.
- Point taken. Where do we start?
- Well, we start by issuing you your temporary rank. Colonel Taggard has ordered that all FSBA-licensed heroes are assigned the temporary rank of Sergeant for as long as they're working with us. He doesn't want there to be any... jurisdictional conflicts between the UNSF and local forces. Now, I could start calling you Sergeant Character, but I think for both our sakes it would make more sense for me to keep things informal.
- During this operation, I'll be here to direct and support your efforts against the 5th Column, but you'll be calling the final shots. You've been working in this city for longer than I have, so I'm sure you've got the chops for it.
- Laura eyes you skeptically.
- You ready to get started?
- Let's get to work.
- Hmph. So why, exactly, are U.N. troops stationed in Paragon?
- Laura's smile falters for a moment, but she forces it back into place. She lets her hand drop to her side.
- Don't know if you know this, pal, but the 5th Column is considered an international terrorist organization. Anywhere the Column rears its head, the U.N. is going to have an interest - and there's no place in the world that's got as much Column in it as Paragon City. I might add that both the PPD and the FBSA have been fairly appreciative of our support.
- But I didn't call you here to talk international politics. I want to talk action. Fact is, the 5th Column in this district has been mobilizing, and they've been taking out Council bases left and right. Now I've been tasked with finding out the cause of this recent surge, and I intend to put a stop to it if I can. I'm going to need some help in that, and I thought you might be the right person for that job. Was I wrong?
- Wrong? No. If you're here to stop the Council, I'm in.
- Alright then!
- Putting on a mock-serious face, Laura snaps to attention and salutes you.
- Petty Officer Laura Lockhart, reporting for duty, sir!
- If they're after the Council, I say let them fight it out.
- Laura frowns at you.
- Look, even setting aside the fact that the 5th Column are a violently anti-government fringe organization with military firepower operating inside U.S. borders, the fact is that their surge against the Council is causing some serious collateral damage. You can't start a war in the middle of a business district and avoid civilian casualties - not that the Column is trying. As far as they're concerned, innocent bystanders are just bonus points.
- Laura stares at you, hard.
- If you want to let people like that run amok in your city, then I guess that's all we have to say to each other. I'm hoping that you care a little bit more than that.
- Point taken. Where do we start?
- Well, we start by issuing you your temporary rank. Colonel Taggard has ordered that all FSBA-licensed heroes are assigned the temporary rank of Sergeant for as long as they're working with us. He doesn't want there to be any... jurisdictional conflicts between the UNSF and local forces. Now, I could start calling you Sergeant Character, but I think for both our sakes it would make more sense for me to keep things informal.
- During this operation, I'll be here to direct and support your efforts against the 5th Column, but you'll be calling the final shots. You've been working in this city for longer than I have, so I'm sure you've got the chops for it.
- Laura eyes you skeptically.
- You ready to get started?
- Let's get to work.
Greeting
Ready for the next operation, Character?
Too Busy
You're here on a volunteer basis, Character. If you want to work together, that's fine, but I need you to be with me 100%. That means no other tasks distracting you.
Too Low Level
Missing Too Low Level Dialogue
No More Missions
Store
None
Story Arc
Merit Rewards: This activity awards 4 Reward Merits.
Collateral Damage
Souvenir
United Nations Special Service Medal
Colonel Taggard pinned this on you personally, in honor of your efforts against the 5th Column. The memory is tinged with regret, however, and you remember the struggle as a desperate campaign against...
Collateral Damage
It began when Petty Officer Laura Lockhart of the United Nations Special Forces contacted you about a recent problem with the 5th Column. For some reason, the Column had become increasingly bold in their attacks on Council outposts, and the fighting was spilling out into Steel Canyon proper. She recruited two heroes to help her with the growing 5th Column threat: you, and another Paragon native named Leon.
You and Leon worked together to fight back the 5th Column. Your mission was to gather information regarding the source of the 5th Column surge - a mission that seemed to run into repeated dead ends. Only when Laura sent you on a solo mission to identify a secretive Column informant did you begin to make headway in your task.
Unfortunately, as soon as you began making progress against the Column, their informant gave up information on the Steel Canyon UNSF headquarters. The 5th Column sent a full invasion force, and you had to rush to their defense. Laura perished in the struggle, and the informant revealed his true motives - Leon himself had been working with the 5th Column from the beginning.
You managed to drive off an overwhelming force of 5th Column soldiers, and left to pursue Leon. During your final confrontation, you were faced with Leon and a 5th Column Commander, working together against the Council. By breaking the Column's connection with their new source of information, you managed to stop their surge into Steel Canyon... but at great cost.
Part One: Net Victory
Mission Briefing
Alright. The first thing we need to do is to try to get a bead on what, exactly, is causing the 5th Column to become so active in this region.
My intel team has been tracking their comm traffic, but it's encrypted. We can't figure out what they're saying, but we CAN figure out who's talking to whom - and we've located a hub of recent activity.
If we can get our hands on their encryption codes, we might be able to get the inside info we need.
- I'm guessing that's where I come in.
Well, sort of. I've already made the recommendation to another local hero recruit, goes by the name Leon. He's got an infiltration mission underway.
I think he can handle himself in there, but that's only based off his record.
In the interest of being safe, and of coordinating your efforts, I thought you might want to provide some backup.
Unnecessary Solicitation
It looks like Leon is still in the field. He could probably use your assistance.
Mission Objective(s)
You encountered the bodies of 5th Column guards outside the entrance to the base. It appears Leon doesn't believe in taking prisoners.
- Infiltrate the 5th Column Base
- Find Leon
- Talk to Leon
- Escape the base with Leon.
You managed to exit the 5th Column base relatively unscathed.
Notable NPCs
- Leon (Rogues Gallery) Paragon City Hero
Enemies
Upon Entry
Further in
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and has been completed before- 5th Column Crate
You've found a handwritten note addressed to Character.
Character,
Come see me after you are told of the situation in Royal Overlook, but before you go. There is a very narrow window of opportunity if you want to save her.
Further in
Leon glares at you irritably
As I'm sure you've overheard, I have this situation under control. I've taken out their commander, and most of the base's defenses. I doubt the remaining troops will put up much resistance.
Leon sighs.
But, I suppose having someone to watch my back isn't so bad. I'm Leon. What do I call you?
- Character is fine.
- Right. Well, Character, there's not much more for us here. The facility itself has been crippled, but they managed to completely wipe their database before I could stop them.
- At this point, I don't think we're going to get any valuable info from this place. I recommend we with draw and search elsewhere.
- We could bring their Commander in for interrogation...
- He's not in any shape to be answering questions, Character, and neither are his troops. If you catch my meaning.
- Leon's face goes hard, and he gestures to the motionless body of the nearby commander.
- Yes, I see. That's... unfortunate.
- You hear muffled shouting from the direction you came. It sounds like the Column is getting reinforcements of their own.
- I think it's time we let ourselves out.
- Oh, don't worry about me. I'm just some lowly *novice*, hardly worth your attention.
- Leon scowls at you.
- No need to get your tights in a bind, pal. I told Lockhart that I have the situation under control, and I do. As you can plainly see.
- Leon gestures to the motionless body of the nearby commander.
- And I suppose you have the data we need as well?
- That data was wiped long before I got here. I know what I'm doing, and I don't need you hounding my tail, trying to second-guess me.
- Look, I can't stop you from tagging along on this counterintelligence goose chase but I sure don't have to put up with you interfering with my work.
- No, it looks like you failed this mission just fine on your own.
- Leon's eyes flare at your remark. He opens his mouth to say something, but thinks better of it.
- You hear muffled shouting from the direction you came. It sounds like the Column is getting reinforcements of their own.
- Time for us to leave. Try to keep up.
Ambush! 5th Column will attack while attempting to exit
The intruders are still here! Find them!
You have made a grave mistake, coming here!
Debriefing
They wiped the info? Damn! I was sure we'd get a lead on this one.
I don't why they would have wiped their logs, Character. That's not standard Column procedure. Either Leon took his sweet time reaching the main database, or something leaked.
Laura's face twists into a wry smile, and she cocks an eyebrow at you.
Its possible that my arrival in Paragon has drawn more attention than I expected.
Part Two: Wars of Old
Mission Briefing
Alright, Character. I've put together a few possible avenues we can pursue in this investigation, and I wanted to get your-
Laura stops herself short, putting a hand to her ear. You can hear muffled chatter coming from her earpiece.
Missed that last message, Central, please repeat.
As the chatter continues, Laura's eyes grow wide. She looks up at you, her mouth slightly agape.
We're going to have to cut off the planning discussion for now, Character. I just got a report of a massive Column operation near Overlook, and sounds like Council forces are mobilizing to meet them.
This is big, Character. If we don't nip that fight in the bud, it could spill out into the rest of Steel Canyon.
- How should we proceed?
We'll get you and Leon transport to the area. I know you could probably get there yourself, but we'll need to coordinate our efforts if we want to minimize damage.
Once you arrive at Royal Overlook, I can help direct the two of you. I'll be working with my team at Central, so we should be able to pin down the hotspots and point you to them.
Let me know as soon as you're ready, Character. We can't afford to waste any time.
- Leave
Unnecessary Solicitation
We don't have a moment to spare, Character. We need to get this show on the road.
Are you ready to head out, Character?
- I'm ready, Laura. (Start Mission)
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and the Handwritten Note clue has been acquired.Are you ready to head out, Character?
There is a very narrow window of opportunity if you want to save her.
- I'm ready, Laura. (Start Mission)
- I need a moment to check something out.
- Laura looks puzzled.
- We don't have much time to spare, Character. Whatever it is, please hurry.
- Never mind, then. Let's go. (Start Mission)
- This will take no time at all.
Hello, Character. It is good to see you. I have noticed you using the Pillar of Ice and Flame by yourself, but I believe this is one task where you could use my help.
- I'm listening.
- Petty Officer Laura Lockhart of the United Nations Special Forces. You have visited this timestream already, and you know how it ends. The 5th Column attacks the UNSF base of operations, and she dies. No matter what you do, you always arrive too late to save her. Have you ever wondered why?
- She doesn't have a Medi-Porter. But I can give her mine.
- Mender Valen shakes her head.
- That won't work. By the time you arrive, she is mere seconds from death; even if she were given immediate care in Paragon City, she would still die. And if she didn't... someone would have to go back and prevent you from giving her your Medi-Porter. The deaths of the UNSF soldiers will be one of the causes for the rise of a group called Citizens for Medi-Porters which will play a small part in preventing Primal Earth from falling to the Praetorian invasion.
- Someone would go back in time to prevent me from saving them?
- I didn't use any healing abilities. But I can do it this time.
- Mender Valen gives you a sad look.
- No, Character. No matter how much you train, what abilities you acquire, or what technology you bring with you, you won't be able to keep her alive. And every time, it will feel wrong, because it really should have worked, but somehow, it didn't. The river of time just won't flow down the path where she lives.
- Someone is changing time to prevent me from saving her?
- Time travel. Someone is mending the timeline so she always dies.
- Mender Valen nods, somber.
- History demands that their lives end at that time. Any timeline in which they survive the attack on the UNSF base is mended away. Their deaths create ripples in time, subtle, but necessary to survive the Coming Storm.
- So if she always has to die, how can you help?
- Lockhart doesn't have to die, Character. She just cannot continue her life after the attack. But she can start a new one.
- We can extract her from the timeline. You must let the attack on the base play out as it has before, but as soon as you reach her, use an Ouroboros Teleporter to bring her to the Citadel.
- Officially, she will be missing in action, presumed killed. The timeline will accept that minor change, and nobody will need to undo our work.
- Tell me more about that teleporter.
- Mender Valen holds up a tiny device.
- This can transport a person through time, but only if their timeline is not in the process of being mended away.
- This is why I asked you to see me before you head to Royal Overlook. Dupont Tower must not be allowed to collapse. If it does, someone will have to go back and prevent it from happening, negating everything you do after the building explodes. While you can continue to experience the events, the teleporter itself will disappear from the timestream, just like the timeline will fade away once your incursion is over.
- Understood. Give me that teleporter.
- Mender Valen hands you the Ouroboros Teleporter.
- Keep it safe while you save Dupont Tower and infiltrate the 5th Column outpost. Those events must still play out as you experienced them. Once you reach Lockhart in the UNSF base, place the teleporter on her forehead without delay. It's already programmed to bring her directly here to the Citadel, where we can heal her injuries in no time at all.
- Her face brightens up slightly.
- We can cheat death today, Character. Savor this moment. It doesn't happen often
Ouroboros TeleporterMender Valen gave you this device with instructions to place it on Laura's forehead as soon as you reach her inside the UNSF Base. It feels very light to the touch, and almost translucent, as if not really existing in this timeline.
- (Leave)
- Why is Dupont Tower so important?
- It's not the building that's important. Several employees of Medi-Corp live in Dupont Tower, and it won't be long until they learn that Praetoria has a way to disable existing medi-porter technology during their invasion. They will work their hardest to develop a new prototype before it's too late. Without them, Praetoria will be able to disable the medi-porters and slaughter everyone in Primal Earth who opposes their invasion.
- Dupont Tower must not fall.
- Understood. Give me that teleporter. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- Why her? Why not the others?
- By the time of your arrival to the base, the others will be beyond helping, Character. Lockhart's injuries will be severe, but you will reach her before it's too late.
- Mender Valen lowers her head. You can tell that she hates what she's about to say.
- We can't save everyone, Character. We just can't. Their deaths are needed to set in motion events that will keep Primal Earth safe from Praetoria, and save it from the Coming Storm. We have just this one opportunity to save one person, pluck her out of her doomed timeline and give her a second chance at life. We can't do it for them all. Death can only be cheated once.
- I know you believe that, but I have to try.
- Mender Valen frowns and looks concerned.
- Are you sure, Character? Even if you succeed in altering the past, someone else will have to travel back and mend the timeline back. I promise you, I am telling the truth. You only have this one chance to save her.
- I am sure. I'll do things my way. You hand the note back to Mender Valen. She takes it with a sad expression in her face, but says nothing more.
- Alright. Let's talk about that teleporter. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- I understand. Let's talk about that teleporter. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- There has to be another way.
- Mender Valen shakes her head.
- There really isn't, Character. You are trying to swim upstream in the river of time, and the currents are very strong. You can save her life... but you can't let it continue in the past.
- Sink or swim, I have to try anyway. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- Okay. Let's talk about that teleporter. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- You're spying on me?
- I have not invaded your privacy, Character, but as a Mender it is my duty to monitor the usage of the Pillar of Ice and Flame and notice events that could disrupt the timeline. I believe that you are about to cause such an event, and I am offering a compromise.
- Fair enough. What is this about? This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- I don't compromise, and I don't want your help.
- Mender Valen frowns and looks concerned.
- Are you sure, Character? You did come to see me, so I know that you care about what happens. The events you are trying to change... they happened for a reason. Even if you succeed in altering them, someone else will have to travel back and mend the timeline back. All your efforts will be for nothing.
- I am sure. I'll do things my way. (This ends the Flashback side branch and Mender Valen will no longer speak to you)
- You hand the note back to Mender Valen. She takes it with a sad expression in her face, but says nothing more.
- Alright, what is this about? This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- Have you been leaving me letters in the past?
- Mender Valen smiles at you.
- I don't write letters, Character. A short note is the safest way to leave a message with minimum interference in the timeline, but it's not safe from prying eyes. It is a very old trick, and only someone with very little experience in time travel would leave a letter... especially one where they discuss things in the open... blatantly... and at length.
- While her smile stays intact, her tone of voice says that it's not safe to talk about this in the Ouroboros Citadel.
- I'm sure you understand.
- Very well, why did you leave me that note? This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
Mission Objective(s)
You hear the sounds of explosions and automatic weaponry in the distance. Time to move.
- Stop the Fighting in Steel Canyon
- Rescue the workers at the Construction Site!
- Stop the fighting downtown!
- Protect Dupont Tower! (Timed 3:00)
You've managed to stop the open war in Steel Canyon... for now.
Enemies
Notable NPCs
- Leon (Rogues Gallery Boss Ally) Paragon City Heroes
Upon Entry
Arrival at the First Objective
First Objective Complete
Second Objective Complete
Third Objective Complete
(Success) You prevented Dupont Tower from collapsing!
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and the Ouroboros Teleporter clue has been acquired.Mender Valen gave you this device with instructions to place it on Laura's forehead as soon as you reach her inside the UNSF Base. Now that you have prevented Dupont Tower from collapsing, it feels more solid somehow, and shines with a soft orange glow.
(Failure)
Mission Completed
Badge
Upon successful completion of the timed objective you will be awarded the Steel Savior badge.
You have gone above and beyond the call of duty and prevented Steel Canyon from turning into a war zone.
Debriefing
We're in the clear for now, Character. All emergency alerts in Steel Canyon have been cancelled, and my team hasn't seen any new ones crop up.
I get the feeling, though, that we don't have a lot of time to work with. What we need now is information, and I think I have an idea how to get it.
Part Three: On the Home Front
Briefing
We've tried Leon's approach, and frankly, I'm not all that impressed. He's a good fighter, but he doesn't really do 'subtle' and he tends not to leave much room for information gathering.
I'm hoping you'll have better luck. My team has managed to pattern most of the comm traffic between Column cells, and we think that they're receiving outside help. Every time the 5th Column attacks the council, the operation's done before the Council even know what hit them. They always seem to know what their opponent's defenses are, and how to bypass them. Heck, the fact that they even know the locations of some of these bases implies that they've gotten their hands on a solid source of info.
If that's the case, then we need to ferret out their source and shut it down before the fighting gets out of hand.
- Do we have any leads?
Just one. I know that the Column have set up an outpost in an old warehouse in Steel, and we know that they haven't been moving supplies through it. It also doesn't have much strategic value, at least in their conflict with the council.
That leads me to believe that the outpost is being maintained as a rendezvous, outside of the warzone. if the Column have an outside informant, that would be the ideal place to set up a meeting. I'm willing to bet that the officer in charge over there has exactly what we need to put a stop to the surge.
Laura pauses for a moment, taking a deep, slow breath.
Look, I know it's a lot of 'ifs', but it's the best lead we've got. I still feel like we can get a handle on this case, Character. We just need a bit of luck on our side.
Infiltrate the 5th Column Outpost
Unnecessary Solicitation
I don't want you to rush this, Character, but we can't really afford to delay, either. When you're ready, you'd better head to that outpost.
Mission Objective(s)
You can see what Laura was talking about. The 5th Column have barely bothered to fortify this place. It's certainly not being used for any standard operations.
- Infiltrate the 5th Column Outpost
- Defeat the outpost leader
- Talk to the Officer
- Use the comm terminal
You've learned of an attack on the UNSF facility!
Notable NPCs
- 5th Column Officer (5th Column Krieger Boss)
- Communication Terminal (Object)
Enemies
You... you have likely ruined my standing in the eyes of my commanding officers, and you have humiliated me in front of my own soldiers.
So congratulations, 'hero', but I must ask: what more could you possibly want from me?
- I'm here to learn about the Column's new informant. Start talking.
The officer chuckles at you.
Naive. I told you I had been shamed, Character, but you cannot expect that I will loosen my tongue, merely because of a little bruising. The 5th Column rewards traitors with death.
Besides, your efforts are fruitless. I do not know our benevolent sponsor's identity, and I suspect that even high command has been left in the dark.
- Wait, your informant doesn't meet you here?
Ha! If he were so bold as to meet with us directly, we would have tortured all relevant information out of him long ago. No, he remains aloof, and we are left to scramble for the pieces he deigns to give us.
The officer's tone gains a hard edge as he continues.
Oh, we've made progress against the traitorous Council, certainly. But I am no fool. Our informant has only ever given us enough to maintain a stalemate. We have never learned enough to gain the upper hand.
I do not know what game our informant plays, but I do know this: his loyalty is not with the 5th Column. He toys with us and misdirects us. Were it not for my orders to remain here and receive his communications, I would track him down personally, and teach him that the 5th Column is not to be trifled with.
- So you do communicate from here... interesting.
The officer hesitates, calming himself. When he speaks again, he does so cautiously.
I... have told you nothing of value, Character. We make no visual contact; our communications are audio-only. You'll have no luck identifying him from here...
The officer falls silent for a long moment, eyeing you warily.
Why... are you staring at me like that?
- I was just thinking... Column soldiers all sound the same. It must be the filters on your masks.
The officer pauses in thought, then tenses up, pulling away from you.
You... you wouldn't DARE...
- [Forcibly remove the soldier's mask filter]
The officer resists, and you're forced to knock him out, but you manage to remove the filter from the rest of his costume. With this, you should be able to make a fair impersonation of a 5th Column soldier, as long as no one's looking at you.
- Leave
5th Column Officer: You... fiend...
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and you have the Ouroboros Teleporter clue.You... you have likely ruined my standing in the eyes of my commanding officers, and you have humiliated me in front of my own soldiers.
So congratulations, "hero", but I must ask: what more could you possibly want from me?
The informant will contact the base soon, using audio-only communications. You could play dumb with the base commander, or just grab his mask to disguise your voice and look for the communication terminal.
- I'm here to learn about the Column's new informant. Start talking. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- Actually, I want your mask. I think it would look good on me.
- The officer pauses in shock, then tenses up, pulling away from you. He wasn't expecting that answer.
- You... you wouldn't DARE...
- Forcibly remove the soldier's mask filter This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
As you approach the display, you can see that a communications line has already been established. A distorted voice can be heard on the other end of the line.
-ome IN, damn you! What's going on over there? Where is the commanding officer of this facility? I have vital information that must be forwarded to-
- [Place Filter] Calm down, I'm here.
The informant goes silent for a moment. When he speaks, the urgency in his voice has been replaced with a wary, cautious tone.
You're not my usual contact. What's going on? Why have I not been informed of this change?
- The previous commander did not see the value in your advice. He has been... removed.
I can't say that I'm surprised. He spent most of his time threatening me with 'the wrath of the 5th Column' instead of listening to what I have to offer.
The tension in the informant's voice fades. It appears you've convinced him of your authenticity.
Well, you should know that there's been a... problematic development. The U.N. has gotten involved. I was able to control their movements for a time, but that's become impossible now. If you want to continue making headway against the Council, you're going to need to take action.
- I... see
I've already uploaded coordinates and schematics of the UNSF's base of operations in Paragon. You'll see that I've taken the liberty of forwarding this information directly to Field marshal Metzger. He has agreed that immediate action must be taken.
I must warn you, however. The UNSF does not have a powerful presence in this city, but they've hired on a local hero, Character. I've seen him / her fight personally, and I can't stress enough that he / she must be considered a threat. Make him / her your highest priority target.
It sounds like an attack on the UNSF base is imminent. Laura may be in danger!
- ... Understood.
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and you have the Ouroboros Teleporter clue.As you approach the display, you can see that a communications line has already been established. A distorted voice can be heard on the other end of the line, but you already know who it is.
Come IN, damn you! What's going on over there? Where is the commanding officer of this facility?
- [Place Filter] Calm down, I'm here.
Leon goes silent for a moment. When he speaks, the urgency in his voice has been replaced with a wary, cautious tone.
You're not my usual contact. What's going on? Why have I not been informed of this change?
- The previous commander did not see the value in your advice. He has been... removed.
I can't say that I'm surprised. He spent most of his time threatening me with "the wrath of the 5th Column" instead of listening to what I have to offer.
The tension in his voice fades. It appears you've convinced him of your authenticity.
Well, you should know that there's been a... problematic development. The U.N. has gotten involved. I was able to control their movements for a time, but that's become impossible now. If you want to continue making headway against the Council, you're going to need to take action.
- I... see.
I've already uploaded coordinates and schematics for the UNSF's base of operations in Paragon. You'll see that I've taken the liberty of forwarding this information directly to Field Marshal Metzger. He has agreed that immediate action must be taken.
I must warn you, however. The UNSF does not have a powerful presence in this city, but they've hired on a local hero, Character.I've seen him / her fight personally, and I can't stress enough that he / she must be considered a threat. Make him / her your highest priority target.
The attack on the UNSF base is imminent. You hold the Ouroboros Teleporter in the palm of your hand.
- Understood.
Defend the UNSF Base
Briefing
From what the 5th Column's informant told you, a large-scale assault on the UNSF base may already be underway. They're not equipped to repel an assault force. You'll need to get there quickly, if the local UNSF forces are to have any hope of survival.
Unnecessary Solicitation
Laura isn't responding to your signal. This... does not bode well.
Mission Objective(s)
The 5th Column have already begun their assault. You may have been too late to intercept them, but you may still be able to drive them out!
- Defend the UNSF Base
- Find Laura
- Use the nearby terminal
- Break the 5th Column siege!
You have broken the 5th Column's siege!
Enemies
Notable NPCs
- Laura Lockhart (Ally, non-combat)
- Field Marshal Metzger (Boss)
- Nebel Praktikant x 48 (5th Column Nebel Praktikant Underling)
Upon Entry
Further In
Further In
Laura remains prone on the floor, breathing hard. You can see red stains slowly spreading across the front of her shirt. It takes a moment for Laura to take notice of your presence, but when she does, she cranes her neck to face you and smiles weakly.
Hey, it's Character... glad... you could make it, buddy...
Laura attempts to right herself, wincing in pain. After a moment, she gives up, and lies back down slowly with a pained sigh.
I don't... think I'll be much help... at this point...
- Hush. We need to get you medical attention.
- Laura begins to laugh softly, but it quickly turns into a hacking cough.
- You're sweet, Character... but I think I'm... past that now.
- She smiles at you. Despite her condition, the smile seems genuine.
- Hey, cheer up, buddy. We've got them... on the run...
- Laura closes her eyes, and breathes out a soft sigh. Her eyes remain closed, but the slight smile on her face remains.
- Damn...
- As you prepare to move onwards, you notice the nearby terminal is blinking with an alert. It appears that someone is trying to get a signal through.
- Investigate the terminal
- I don't have time for this. The Column are still swarming all over this place.
- Laura's face becomes grim, but she nods at you.
- That's the spirit... go get 'em... sir.
- Laura smiles to herself, amused at her use of your honorary title.
- It was... an honor...
- Laura lifts her free hand to give an attempt at a salute, grinning despite her condition. Her hand then falls limp, and she lets out a shallow breath of air.
- Rest well, Lockhart
- As you prepare to move onwards, you notice the nearby terminal is blinking with an alert. It appears that someone is trying to get a signal through.
- Investigate the terminal
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and you have the Ouroboros Teleporter clue.Laura remains prone on the floor, breathing hard. You can see red stains slowly spreading across the front of her shirt. It takes a moment for Laura to take notice of your presence, but when she does, she cranes her neck to face you and smiles weakly.
Hey, it's Character... glad... you could make it, buddy...
Laura attempts to right herself, wincing in pain. After a moment, she gives up, and lies back down slowly with a pained sigh.
I don't... think I'll be much help... at this point...
- Hush. We need to get you medical attention. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- (Place the Ouroboros Teleporter on her forehead)
You place the Ouroboros Teleporter on Laura's forehead, not wasting any time.
What is...?
She disappears in an orange glow. As you prepare to move onwards, you notice the nearby terminal is blinking with an alert. It appears that someone is trying to get a signal through.
Laura's FateYou used the Ouroboros Teleporter to save Laura Lockhart's life by pulling her out of the timeline. Mender Valen may want to talk to you after you secure the UNSF base.
- (Investigate the terminal)
You approach the terminal and open the communications line. Immediately, Leon's face appears on the screen.
Character. I was hoping to speak with Lockhart. Where is she?
- Laura's dead. The 5th Column are storming the base... where are you?
Leon frowns, ignoring your question.
That's a shame. About Lockhart, I mean. Really, I don't think she was ever cut out for this kind of thing. Too good-natured for war.
Leon's expression darkens, and his voice gains a grim quality.
You, on the other hand, were capable enough to cause problems. Really, none of this would have been necessary if you had left me alone to my work.
- And what work is that, exactly?
- The Council and the 5th Column are woven from the same cloth, Character. Both organizations, if left to their own devices, would be capable of atrocities you could hardly imagine.
- There is only one way to deal with the two of them, and that is to turn them against one another. At their current pace, both sides are suffering tremendous losses. Given enough time, they will become weak enough for the heroes of Paragon to eliminate them entirely... but only if the war is allowed to continue.
- And the innocent bystanders of this 'war'? Are they expendable?
- Frankly, yes. If by doing this I can prevent either side from becoming a threat - a true global power - then the costs of this war are a necessity.
- I don't enjoy this, Character, but I will do what needs to be done. I can understand your position. I know you want to do the right thing. You were just...
- Leon pauses, as if trying to find the correct phrase.
- You... were in the way. You're collateral damage, in this war. I'm sorry it had to be this way.
- It doesn't, Leon. You can stop this war, and end the suffering.
- Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank.
- Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.
- Leave
- Not as sorry as you're going to be, Leon. I'll find you, sooner or later.
- Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank.
- Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.
- Leave
- You cowardly piece of trash! I'll make you PAY!
- Leon lets out a humorless chuckle.
- You have no idea the situation you're in, do you? The entire weight of the 5th Column army has descended onto a poorly-defended, understaffed facility and you are their primary target. Oh, I've seen you in combat. You'll put up a grand fight, and when you go down you'll take a dozen soldiers with you. But you can't fight an army.
- And every man you crush beneath your fury brings me one step closer to my goal. So by all means, Character... struggle, with all of your power. You would be doing me a great service.
- Don't play coy. You're in league with the Column!
- Simpleton. I am in league with the Column only so far as they can bring harm to their rivals, and in turn can be harmed themselves. The Council and the 5th Column are rabid dogs, turned on one another. The best thing is to let them tear at each other until they have no more fight left, before moving in for the kill.
- You couldn't understand that, and that's why you're stuck in a burning building with a fascist horde breathing down your neck.
- You have no one to blame for your fate but yourself. Shout and scream all you like, but in the end, it changes nothing.
- It's a shame. I always thought you were one of the good guys.
- Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank.
- Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.
- Leave
- Run, Leon. Run hard. When I get out, I'm coming for you.
- Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank.
- Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.
- Leave
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and you have the Laura's Fate clue.You approach the terminal and open the communications line. Immediately, Leon's face appears on the screen.
Character. I was hoping to speak with Lockhart. Where is she?
- Laura's gone. The 5th Column are storming the base... where are you? This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and you have the Laura's Fate clue.Mender Valen greets you with a smile.
Character. I was hoping you would come. Being a Mender rarely results in truly happy moments; we often need to preside over enormous sacrifices in order to keep the timeline away from the path leading to the Coming Storm. But today, we made a difference.
- Did it work?
- Yes. The Ouroboros Teleporter brought Laura Lockhart directly to the Citadel. Her wounds were severe, but we have 78th century medicine at our disposal. From her perspective, she was immediately returned to perfect health the instant she teleported away. You might have even seen her condition improve in front of your eyes, before she vanished.
- Where is Laura?
- Mender Laura, you mean. While very little time has passed for you since our last encounter, she has spent months adjusting to her new life. Her skills in military deprogramming have been very useful when dealing with rogue agents in the timestream; she can convince them to abandon their reckless plans, and even give up accomplices. She has become a very valuable asset.
- So this as all you cared about? Recruiting a "valuable asset"?
- I had hoped you would think of me better, Character. I appreciate Mender Laura's skills, but that's not why I left you that note.
- Mender Valen pauses for a second.
- Ouroboros... we bear a large burden. We are trying to prevent the destruction of this planet and mankind as a whole. We cannot afford to let a single life get in the way of the greater good. We have to be cold and calculating, and act only in the best interests of the future.
- She gives you a piercing look.
- That's what Silos would tell you. Tesseract will not think twice about killing everybody in that base herself if you prevented their deaths. Lazarus has sacrificed so much, even his own sense of continuity, that people are just points in a probability space to him.
- Her eyes turn determined, but warm.
- Me? I want to see more than the bigger picture. I know that events have to play out the way they're meant to be, for all our sakes. But I don't want to lose track of what we're fighting for. We're trying to save the future because lives are at stake. If I can find a way to save a life in the past, I will take that chance. Whether it is someone with skills that make them an accomplished Mender, or someone who can't even say the word "Ouroboros".
- Be that as it may, I want to see Laura.
- And she wants to see you, Character, at the earliest opportunity. Which, from your timeframe, will be when you trace that transmission back to its source. When trying to meet with a time traveler, one of you should try to stay on a linear, predictable time, and she can't do that anymore.
- A small smile returns to her face.
- But I am glad you came to see me. Let's work together again, some other time.
Mender LauraAccording to Mender Valen, Laura has spent several months working for Ouroboros since you saved her life less than an hour ago. She is looking forward to meeting you when you reach the source of Leon's transmission.
- (Leave)
- Wait... are you talking about Flower Knight?
- Mender Valen appears to have been caught in something she wasn't supposed to mention.
- I... yes. She was attacked by a group of mutated thugs while trying to find a cure for their condition. In some timelines, she was rescued by a novice hero during the Outbreak, but...
- She seems to struggle with unpleasant thoughts.
- I was an unexperienced Mender when I saw what they did to her and I... I was reckless. I sent some of those Contaminated into a possible future to get them away from her. In doing so, I linked all of their fates to that moment in time... a moment that must not come to pass. I created a scar in time, and once that timeline is negated, so will Flower Knight. She can only exist for as long as Recluse's Victory is uncertain.
- She lowers her head.
- This is why we must be very careful when trying to trick time itself, Character. It fights back. We must thread very cautiously to slip someone through the cracks in time, like Laura.
- I want to see her. Make sure she is alright with this. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
Track down Leon
Briefing
You managed to fend off the 5th Column's assault force, but the damage had already been done. The UNSF is in tatters, as Leon had planned. Your only hope in catching him lies in the coordinates you recorded - the origin of his comm signal.
Unnecessary Solicitation
The signal on Laura's communicator is understandably silent. After all that has happened, it falls to you to end the 5th Column surge.
Mission Objective(s)
These are the coordinates you recorded after tracing Leon's signal. With any luck, he'll still be here.
- Track down Leon
- Speak with Leon
You've intercepted Leon, and ended the 5th Column's surge!
Enemies
Notable NPCs
- Leon (Rogues Gallery Boss)
- Commandant Eberhart (5th Column Boss)
The following only appears when this mission is played via Flashback and you have the Mender Laura clue.- Mender Laura (Ouroboros Lieutenant)
Petty Officer Laura Lockhart, reporting for duty, sir!
Putting on a mock-serious face, Laura snaps to attention and salutes you... then collapses into laughter.
I'm out of practice. But old habits die hard, and I couldn't greet my superior officer out of uniform.
- I am not your superior officer!
- Laura's face twists into a wry smile.
- I had direct orders from Colonel Taggard. "Any FBSA-licensed Hero that signs on is hereby assigned the temporary rank of Sergeant, for the duration of this mission." And the mission is not over, not for you. I had to promise Valen to stay out of sight to avoid interfering with the timeline, since I'm supposed to be... you know... not here.
- She pauses for a moment, then her smile widens.
- But I am here. Thanks to you. And I don't know where and when we'll see each other again, so I had to come.
- Right. We have to stop Leon.
- Don't worry, he's not going anywhere. That last transmission he sent, gloating about pitting the fascists against each other? Commander Eberhart of the 5th Column was listening in. He had access to the UNSF base's communications thanks to the schematics that Leon gave him. His troops swarmed this building almost immediately.
- Laura winks mischievously.
- It felt wrong to prevent them from having a long and uninterrupted conversation, so I locked them in. You can go in and arrest them whenever you're ready.
- He wanted to be a hero, once. Maybe I can convince him to come around.
- Laura beams a smile.
- Ever the optimist, Character. I'm not surprised, after all, I'm standing here because you refuse to give up, even when all hope seems lost. If anyone can persuade Leon to have a change of heart, it's you.
- She reaches inside her uniform's pocket and grabs a key.
- Ready to be a hero?
- Let's do this.
- I can't go with you. I can't be anywhere near these events when they happen, or everything you did to bring me back might fall apart. I'm stealing a moment, but that's all I'm allowed to have... until we meet again.
- Laura offers you the key with a grateful smile in her eyes.
- Goodbye, Character. Thank you for everything.
- (Take the key) Goodbye, Laura.
- I'll make sure that traitor is locked up for a very long time.
- Laura nods, a pensive look in her eyes.
- I worked with Leon for a little while, before we met. His methods are vile, but I think he really believes he's doing this for the greater good. Given time... given a lot of time...
- She reaches inside her uniform's pocket and grabs a key.
- He's reponsible for a lot of deaths, and he must answer for his crimes. But I don't think he's beyond redemption.
- We'll see. Let's get to work. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- Prison is too good for him. I'm putting him down.
- Laura's eyes grow wide. She looks up at you, frowning.
- There has been enough death on this day, Character. I know that they could not be prevented... even though I have not been a Mender for long, I understand that. But Leon is not one of them, and killing him won't bring them back.
- If the dead could talk, they would tell you to bring him in alive to face justice. I know that, because I was one of the dead, and that's what I'm asking you to do. You have to promise me to do this right.
- Fine. He will rot in jail. I promise. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
- We have no time to waste. Leon might still be here. This selection loops to another branch of this conversation which is already documented.
Badge
Completion of this dialogue awards the Guardian of Forever Badge.
You used the Pillar of Ice and Flame to cheat death and recruit a new member for Ouroboros.
You escaped, Character. Even knowing your capabilities, I admit that I'm surprised. I didn't expect someone of your... naivete to be able to survive Metzger's assault. I suppose I stand corrected.
Leon's eyes narrow, and his shoulders tense. You notice his grip on his blades tightening.
So... here we are. What do you plan to do, now that you have tracked me down?
- Leon... I understand why you're doing this, but the 5th Column have to be stopped.
- Don't you see, Character? You can stop the Column here, and yes, the immediate threat will be solved.
- But what I'm working towards could end the 5th Column, and the Council, completely. All the suffering they've caused, all of the killing... how many years must it continue? How many future lives will be lost because we chose not to act now?
- And if you fail? If this war continues, and you have nothing to show for it?
- Leon bristles at your suggestion, but sighs in resignation.
- If you had asked me that a week ago, I would have laughed at you. I would have claimed that such doubts are for those who are unable to make the hard decisions. But now...
- Leon chuckles grimly, without humor.
- Thanks in no small part to your efforts, I can feel my grip on this situation slipping. I do have doubts... and if all of the pain and suffering that I have helped cause becomes pointless, then I become no better than the fascists themselves.
- Alright, Character. I'm smart enough to know when I'm fighting for a lost cause. What do we do now?
- My mark on three. One, two...
- Leon smirks, and tenses his body in preparation.
- Three.
- Combat Start:
- Leon: Surprise, Eberhart...
- Commandant Eberhart: You... you will PAY for this treachery!
- So, it's done.
- Eberhart was the last of my contacts in the 5th Column. At this point, even if I wanted to, I wouldn't be able to keep supplying them with the information they'd need. Their momentum against the Council will falter, and the war in Steel Canyon will end... for better or for worse.
- You see tinges of anger and regret in Leon's face. Yet, more than anything, Leon simply appears... tired.
- You've won, Character. I've got nothing left. So I ask you, Hero... what happens now?
- Leon... you've done things that can't go unanswered.
- Leon nods slowly at you.
- I know, Character. I won't run from my crimes. At the very least, I've committed treason, along with a host of other offenses.
- I never cared about my own fate, Character. If this is how it ends, then I would ask that you at least understand that. I worked with the worst kinds of men, and caused great harm... and I acknowledge that. But... if my plan had only succeeded... we might have been rid of a scourge on Paragon City.
- After a moment, Leon sighs, and hangs his head.
- But... none of that matters, now. Come, Character. It's time for me to face my fate.
- Very well.
- I can't let this continue, Leon. Whatever it is you're planning, it ends now.
- Leon makes an exasperated sound, looking away from you.
- I should have guessed that would be your attitude. You just can't seem to see past what's immediately in front of you. Just cling to whatever code you follow and fight whatever you're told to, like a good little soldier.
- Leon sighs, and his shoulders slump slightly.
- Look, Character. I've been party to some terrible things in the last few months, and I fully accept responsibility for what I've done.
- Despite that... I'm not going to fight you. I'll be damned if I raise my blades directly against another Hero... especially against you.
- Then I only have one thing to take care of.
- ...Yes. Yes, I suppose you do.
- Leon turns away, as the soldiers behind him converge on you.
- Leave
- Combat Start:
- Commandant Eberhart: You would do well to surrender, Character. You cannot win.
- Leon: Commander, do as you will.
- So, it's done.
- Eberhart was the last of my contacts in the 5th Column. At this point, even if I wanted to, I wouldn't be able to keep supplying them with the information they'd need. Their momentum against the Council will falter, and the war in Steel Canyon will end... for better or for worse.
- You see tinges of anger and regret in Leon's face. Yet, more than anything, Leon simply appears... tired.
- You've won, Character. I've got nothing left. So I ask you, Hero... what happens now?
- Leon... you've done things that can't go unanswered.
- Leon nods slowly at you.
- I know, Character. I won't run from my crimes. At the very least, I've committed treason, along with a host of other offenses.
- I never cared about my own fate, Character. If this is how it ends, then I would ask that you at least understand that. I worked with the worst kinds of men, and caused great harm... and I acknowledge that. But... if my plan had only succeeded... we might have been rid of a scourge on Paragon City.
- After a moment, Leon sighs, and hangs his head.
- But... none of that matters, now. Come, Character. It's time for me to face my fate.
- Very well.
- I should expect that would be obvious, after what you did. You won't leave here alive.
- Leon raises his blades into a guarded position. Without averting his eyes from you, he jerks his head in the direction of the troops behind him.
- Are you sure you want to do that, Character?
- More than sure. You're not getting away this time, murderer.
- Very well...!
- This one's for Laura.
Badge
Completion of this mission awards the War Hero badge.
You stood in the middle of a war between the Council and the 5th Column, and emerged the victor.
Debriefing
Without Leon's help, the 5th Column's offensive is doomed. The fighting is sure to die down, and Steel Canyon will no longer remain a battlefield.
The 5th Column and the Council will likely retreat to their bases and outposts to lick their wounds. They will return, without a doubt, but for now... there is peace.