John Houston

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Overview

John Houston, WSPDR Journalist
WSPDR Journalist
Zone	Independence Port
Coordinates	(-868.2, 0.0, -3856.4)
Level Range	40-44
Introduced By	None
Enemy Groups	Warriors The Family Port Noble Citizen's Brigade Council Striga's Sentinels Freaklok Freakshow Paragon Police Department
Badges	Pollster Underdog

John Houston is a rogue contact in the Crey Cove neighborhood of Independence Port at coordinates (-868, 0, -3856) . 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!

Story Arc

Noble Intentions

Merit Rewards: This activity awards 20 Reward Merits.

Souvenir

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.

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

• Tunnel Rat (Resistance Boss, Ally)
• Orion (Warriors Smasher Elite, Boss) Orion is a hunter, through and through, and rarely loses his prey.

Warriors Chatter

Before Combat:

Warrior 1: I'm so sick of these Praetorians. They don't get how things work here.

Warrior 2: How do you explain 'fundamental rights' to a grown person?

Combat Start:

Warrior 1: Stop this fool!

Warrior 2: Get out of our business!

---

Before Combat:

Warrior 1: That one makes me uneasy. She's really toeing the line between person and animal.

Warrior 2: I can't tell if she's really part animal or just pretending. She's cute though.

Combat Start:

Warrior 1: Don't even go there, dude. Speaking of making me uneasy - here's Character!

Warrior 2: Let's take out our frustration on them!

Captured Tunnel Rat

Before Combat:

Warrior 1: We know you've got some dirt on Alexander the Traitor. Tell us what you know, mouse-face!

Tunnel Rat: Wait? Can you smell that? Smells like trouble - for you!

Combat Start:

Tunnel Rat: I recognized Houston's cologne on you right away. You've come for me, haven't you?

Orion: Everyone's sticking their nose in our business lately.

Rescued:

Tunnel Rat: Let's talk, and then we're scurrying out of here.

Upon Reaching Exit:

Tunnel Rat: Tell Houston he doesn't smell -all- bad.

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

Warrior Ambushes

Combat Start:

Warrior Ambusher: Get the rat!

Speak with Tunnel Rat

Tunnel Rat

Speak with Tunnel Rat

Tunnel Rat cautiously approaches you like a wounded animal.

Thanks for the save. I wasn't sure if anyone would come for me. I was hoping. Hard to tell if anyone was coming, with the smells.

• ...The smells? I guess you get used to it...

Tunnel Rat stops to sniff a little more intently.

Yes, so many smells. No automated cleaners, no Clockwork. Not ours, anyway. You... smell like I can trust you.

Tunnel Rat listens as you explain why you're here.

John Houston sent you? He's not as bad as he seems on TV then. No smell on TV. Hard to tell who's good or bad. I'm not going to see him. Could lead to problems for both of us. More problems. I'll tell you what I know, and you tell John.

Here goes. I have a friend. Not a friend really. An acquaintance. Someone I knew from back home. He is - he was - in the UPA, when Calvin Scott was still alive. He was part of that whole deal, with the Council. The New Praetorians shut them down. Big deal, that was. Saw the divide in everyone's responses. Smelled fear and joy, equal parts.

Anyway, New Praetorians singlehandedly wiped out the Council, I thought. We all thought. But no - the damned Council is bigger than just Striga. Their island base. My friend told me they are hiding now. Hiding in plain sight. Acting like civilians. They are planning something big too. Not explosive big but big in the small way. A tiny thing that leads to big problems. Election fraud. Scary concept - I've met some of these people here. They almost all get the right to vote! If the system fails, new Coles 'elect' themselves. Can't have that.

Tell John to look into the Port Noble citizens brigade, and Alexander the Great. It all smells awful, and I want nothing more to do with it. Here, if your memory is bad, the data is on this shiny round disc.

Tunnel Rat hands you a CD, which you hope Houston knows how to operate.

• Thank you. Let's get you out of here.

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.

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 (NPC)
• Enzo 'Export' Altieri (Elite Boss)
• Ricky 'Grinder' Scaramanga (Elite Boss)
• Titus (Elite Boss)
• Stephanie Peebles (NPC)
• Long Jack (NPC)
• Luigi 'Left Hook' Sanzari (Family Boss, guarding Old Toby)
• Joey 'Gabbagol' Galtieri (Family Lieutenant, guarding Old Toby)
• Tobias 'Old Toby' Hansen (NPC)
• Lars Hansen (NPC)

PNCB Brigadier General Greeting

Mission Entrance:

PNCB Brigadier General: Talk to me before you waltz into that warzone.

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

Before Combat:

Family Minion: Damn it all... take out the hero!

Warrior Minion Why are you here? Don't you have more important things to do?

---

Before Combat:

Family Minion: Tights! I knew it! Party's over!

PNCB Minion: Striga doesn't need your help! Striga is for its people!

---

Before Combat:

Warrior Minion: First the Americans... then this!

PNCB Minion: First, we clean these gangs out, then we kick the capes out. Striga is free!

---

Before Combat:

Warrior Minion: First the Americans... then this!

PNCB Minion: We don't want your help! We'll clean these streets ourselves!

---

Before Combat:

Family Minion: Damn it all... take out the hero!

Warrior Minion: Capes are here! Fight them off!

---

Before Combat:

Family Minion: Who hired you, the Brigade? That's adorable.

Warrior Minion: Why are you here? Don't you have more important things to do?

---

Before Combat:

Family Minion: Tights! I knew it! Party's over!

Warrior Minion: Capes are here! Fight them off!

---

Before Combat:

PNCB Minion: Let us take back our homeland! No help!

---

Combat Start:

Family Boss: Ay, get these jokers outta here!

Gang Leaders

Before Combat:

Enzo 'Export' Altieri: I ain't gotta tell you how important these here docks are.

Combat Start:

Enzo 'Export' Altieri: Not now, not today, not ever. Get lost, cape. (Hero)

Enzo 'Export' Altieri: Bah, now I gotta slap down a fame-hungry moron too?. (Rogue)

---

Before Combat:

Titus: Shut up. I hear something coming.

Combat Start:

Titus: Supers, now? This is madness! (Hero)

Titus: This is madness! Even celebrity tools are in Striga! (Rogue)

---

Before Combat:

Ricky 'Grinder' Scaramanga: This place is in shambles. How we ain't taken over yet?

Combat Start:

Ricky 'Grinder' Scaramanga: It's the fun police, all the way from Paragon. Get lost, cape! (Hero)

Ricky 'Grinder' Scaramanga: Paragon's sending their B-List! Git'em! (Rogue)

Stephanie Peebles

On Approach:

Stephanie Peebles: You don't look like the rest of the riff-raff around here. Come, let us talk.

---

Stephanie Peebles

Briefing

Stephanie looks at you with friendly but untrusting eyes.

Hello, youngster. Are you lost? Don't you know Striga is closed for business? Legitimate business, that is. Oh, it was good for some time. The New Praetorian heroes out of Brickstown took down the Council in a most spectacular fashion, and the U.S. Army was here too, drinking my tavern dry. But now we're almost back to our old ways. The Warriors and Family, like hungry wolves circling each other. Who will strike first? Who will be left bleeding in the gutter? How many innocent civilians will get caught in their struggle? But you're not all that interested in the plight of the common folk, are you? You're somewhat of a wolf yourself.

• What about the citizens brigade?

Stephanie's eyes narrow, either in disdain or amusement. It's very difficult to determine which it is.

Speaking of wolves, hm? They are wolves too, in sheeps' clothing. No citizens I know of have joined these 'patriots'. They never come around to have a drink at the tavern, like real locals do. Surely you must have figured it out by now? They are what's left of the Council. Those thugs will never leave Striga. They'll be back. And until they can get reinforcements they hide out in plain sight, looking respectable in a suit and tie. But we can smell a thug a mile away. We smelled you, after all.

You briefly consider if, between herself and Tunnel Rat, that you actual have an odor about you. You brush it off as a colloquial saying from an old lady.

• Thanks. Who else should I talk to?

Long Jack knows a thing or two about protecting Port Noble. He's lurking down by the pier. Ask him what he thinks.

• Thanks, I'll do that.

• Nice to meet you too. I'm here about the Brigade.

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

• Storytime later, Grandma. I need to know about the Brigade.

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

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

On Approach:

Long Jack: Shhhh! Don't blow my spot!

---

Long Jack

Briefing

Long Jack snaps his gaze to you once you mention Stephanie Peebles sent you.

Did she now? I guess we must talk then. Did she tell you about the citizens brigade? I think she's right. There's definitely something Council-like about them. Oh they go on and on about protecting Port Noble and throwing out the smugglers and the organized crime, but all they really seem to be protecting is this particular building. I'm fairly sure that's their headquarters. Now why would they need such a huge warehouse to run a simple neighborhood watch? That's what I've been trying to find out. Stop bothering me now, you'll give away my position.

• Tell me who else I can bother, then?

Have a word with Old Toby. He's helping out at the field hospital these days.

• Brief and to the point? I can respect that.

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

Before Combat:

Luigi 'Left Hook' Sanzari: We know them Brigadiers work for ya, Toby! Call 'em off!

Combat Start:

Tobias 'Old Toby' Hansen: Somebody, help me!

Joey 'Gabbagol' Galtieri: Ay, oh, ayyy! Mannaggia! Whaddya got here? Some deficiente buttin' in!

Rescued:

Tobias 'Old Toby' Hansen: I thought capes were done with Striga once the Council imploded.

---

Tobias Hansen

Briefing

Old Toby wipes the sweat from his brow as the Family goons retreat into the distance. You offer him a hand to his feet.

Thank you, I was about to break one of my vows over their heads. I'm a peaceful man, I would hate to have to resort to violence. Are you a hero, here to fight the Council? If so, you're too late. They're all gone. But true evil never dies, it seems, and no evil is more true than the Council. See that field hospital just over there? We take in anyone - Warrior, Family, the odd hero. We don't care about what side they are on. So I hear things, and I see things, and our patients talk. Maybe I know something you need to hear.

• What were those Family goons talking about?

One of their men ended up on a stretcher here for a while. A Warrior had carved him up, and he had lost a lot of blood. He was delirious and kept talking about some money, and how he had to get back to tell the others, or warn them. It seems the Family and Warriors had a logistics problem while the U.S. Army and Navy were all over the island, and now their stash-houses are bursting with ill-gotten gains that needs to be shipped out. That's why they are all so nervous and at each others' throats.

• And this Brigade isn't making it easier, I'd wager.

We don't see too many of those Brigadiers but now and then one of their thugs will end up in one of our beds. It probably breaks all kinds of hippocratic oaths if I tell you, but fortunately I'm not a doctor. I've seen what some of them are hiding under those well-ironed shirts - tattoos.

Tobias pauses for a moment to see if that registers with you.

Let me tell you, no respectable Port Noble citizen would be caught dead with such filth on their skin. But we patch them up and send them on their way. We don't care what side they are on. Not officially at least. That's all the oath-breaking I'm prepared to do for one evening. You best be off, unless you need medical attention.

• Who else might know something?

Find my brother, Lars. He's usually somewhere up high, getting the big picture.

• Thanks, I'll do just that.

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

On Approach:

Lars Hansen: You must be very committed to come up here just to talk to me.

---

Lars Hansen

Briefing

Lars relaxes a bit when you tell him that Toby said he might have caught some rare birds on film.

I see a lot of things. In the air. On the water. Under the water. There's a lot of people coming and going at that warehouse down there. The big one the so called citizens brigade are guarding so ferociously. Very interesting people.

• Just how interesting are we talking?

Lars nods in understanding.

Does the name Burkholder ring a bell? Archon Burkholder, a Council bigshot. I would recognize his face anywhere, even if he was hiding his cybernetic claw. I saw him land over at the old Sky Raider air strip, and take a car to the warehouse.

He didn't come alone, but he had just a single guard with him. Quite unusual. They went inside, but when Burkholder left the next morning, it was with another man. Small mousy scientist type. They boarded a submarine and took off with the tide.

Lars shows some pictures on his digital camera, and John audibly gasps in your ear.

• One second, Lars. My benefactor just yelped in my ear.

Houston: 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. Finish your interviews and then give me a call.

You turn your attention back to Lars.

• That warehouse across the bay?

Lars marks the warehouse location on your map.

• Thanks for the help, Lars.

• Like who?

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

• Council-level interesting?

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

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:

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.

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

• Archon Papagiorgio (Council Galaxy Archon Boss, guarding Lazy Scientist) You've heard this Archon's name before. He might have been the same person who won four cars in St. Martial in the same night by running the slots.
• Lazy Scientist (NPC)
• Council Digger (Council Galaxy Archon Boss)
• Ravenstorm (Striga's Sentinels Scrapper (Elite Boss))
• Dr. Todd (Striga's Sentinels Kineticist (Elite Boss))
• Supersoldier Maurice (Council Super-Soldier Elite Boss)
• Base Leader (Council Galaxy Archon Boss)
• Doug, Warrior Spirit (Council Minion)

Secret Entrance Guards

Before Combat:

PNCB Minion: Purge is in process. I'm actually glad I got patrol duty today.

PNCB Minion: Me too. I'd hate being trapped in there with that -thing-.

Combat Start:

PNCB Minion: Character is back? I thought they left hours ago.

PNCB Minion: Of course someone has to show up on -my- watch. FIRE!

---

The entrances are sealed, but a vent carries voices clearly... this must be a way in.

PNCB Computer Guards

Before Combat:

PNCB Minion: I saw Dr. Arvin put in his password. Let's log on and look up the most risque costumes from Pocket D.

PNCB Minion: You'll never get away with it. You should just get rid of that piece of paper right now.

Combat Start:

PNCB Minion: I hope that piece of paper gets ruined with blood stains, sir.

PNCB Minion: Oh, come on! We just got this operation up and running.

---

You think you have a working password to something!

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

Combat Start:

Council Minion: Heroes? Here? That means the front has been breached. Open fire!

---

Before Combat:

Council Minion: Did the doors seal?

Council Minion: I can hear them digging. They must be desperate.

---

Before Combat:

Archon Papagiorgio: Stay put. It's your own fault we're stuck here.

Lazy Scientist: We drill twice a week. How was I supposed to know this time it was for real?

Combat Start:

Archon Papagiorgio: If you'd just evacuated with the rest, I wouldn't have to fight this cape to protect you.

Captured:

Lazy Scientist: Please, don't hurt me!

Lazy Scientist: I'll open the blast door for you!

---

You've got a scientist in tow, who's been volun-told to offer up his handprint to get into the deep bowels of the lab.

Council Digging Team

Before Combat:

Council Digger: Guys, come on, I'm getting tired.

Council Minion: Keep digging, you inferior specimen!

Council Minion: I keep hearing thumps and screams. I gotta get out of here!

Combat Start:

Council Minion: Blast doors are open...

Council Digger: Oh. Character. Lovely.

Council Digger: Someone tag in already, my arms are killing me.

Council Database

Advanced Computer

Access Terminal

Welcome, Dr. Arvin. For security purposes, please input your password or a blood sample.

Alert: Purge Protocol in progress.

• Log in

Dr. Arvin's escape plan

Dr. Arvin appears to have a contingency plan if things go wrong. 'Steel Caterpillar' is listed as ready for departure if needed from Port Noble bay.

Password accepted.

Welcome, Dr. Arvin.

It has been [2] days since your last visit.

It has been [3] minutes since a reported workplace accident.

You have [312] new messages.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Project 'HangingChad' status: Operational

Project 'Predatore' status: Live Testing

Departure Plan B is prepped. 'Steel Caterpillar' is on standby in Port Noble.

• Load 'HangingChad'

--------------------

PROJECT: HANGINGCHAD

--------------------

Director's Notes:

--------------------

The voting machines Archon Burkholder designed have been delivered to the Paragon City election committee, and are being installed in every voting location across the city. By election day we will have full coverage and the ability to change the outcome of any district at the flick of a switch. Mr. Pavlidis will win by an indisputable but inconspicuous margin. Included data projections predict his efforts to clean up smuggling operations on Striga will come to fruition within a year, clearing the way for our glorious return to power.

Project 'Hanging Chad'

Archon Burkholder has designed a voting machine with limited AI circuits and encrypted receivers which allows the Council to change votes on the fly. According to the notes you found on Dr. Arvin's computer, the completed machines have been delivered to Paragon City's election committee via a front company, and will be used in the upcoming special election. The Council intend to give Alexander 'The Great' Pavlidis a decisive victory, and count on his hard stance on gang crime to open up Striga for their glorious return.

• Return

• Load 'Predatore'

--------------------

PROJECT PREDATORE

--------------------

Director's notes:

--------------------

The new prototype super soldier serum is currently being tested in the secure laboratory. Our test subject is responding well but further development is necessary to achieve levels approaching those of Marauder at the height of his power.

The mind boggles.

Imagine what could be accomplished with an army of loyal soldiers, each one capable of standing up to a dozen so-called 'Incarnates'. It is fortunate that The Center has nothing but the good of mankind in mind, or I might develop serious misgivings about all of this.

But there is nothing to worry about. In the Center I see the kind of leader our Emperor Cole could have aspired to, circumstances permitting. When I return from our meeting I will dedicate myself entirely to this project. I want nothing more but to please the Center and make him proud of my efforts.

Project 'Predatore'

With Nosferatu in jail, Dr. Arvin has been put in charge of the Council supersoldier program. He has been able to reverse engineer Praetor Barry's superserum and removed most of its averse side effects, but fortunately there is still more work to do before the serum will grant the user Marauder-levels of power. The new prototype super soldier is currently being tested in the secure laboratory.

• Return

• Download voting machine data

WARNING!

SYSTEM INTRUSION DETECTED!

SHUTDOWN IMMINENT!

Remember to always save your work. Have a nice day!

• Leave

• The computer begins to whine and smoke!

Striga's Sentinels

Before Combat:

Ravenstorm: Someone's doing our job for us, Dr. Todd.

Dr. Todd: So it seems, Ravenstorm. Let's investigate!

Combat Start:

Ravenstorm: Striga's Sentinels are on the scene. This is your only warning!

Dr. Todd: This will not end well for you!

First Blood:

Ravenstorm: Whoa whoa, wait a minute, you're not Council.

Dr. Todd: Hold up a sec, PhalanxAux reports Character is unaffiliated.

---

Ravenstorm and Dr. Todd will then stop being enemies and prompt the player to talk to them.

---

Ravenstorm

Speak to Ravenstorm

Ravenstorm eyes you suspiciously.

You're not Dr. Arvin, or even with the Council. Explain yourself, or face the consequences!

• (HERO - NEGOTIATE) Ravenstorm and Dr. Todd. What are you two doing here?

The US army may have declared the Council threat over after the New Praetorians wrecked their volcano base, but Moonfire and I knew better. We've been observing the Council's activities here on Striga for some time, with the aid of Dr. Todd. It seems your bungled intrusion set off the surveillance tap she installed on their network, and now you've jeopardized our entire operation. Tell me why we shouldn't take you in along with the other criminals in this base!

• (ROGUE - FIGHT) I'm far too pretty for jail. Step aside, losers.

+++ Missing Information +++

• (HERO - GREATER GOOD) Because I know about the monster in the basement.

Ravenstorm looks over the briefing data on Operation Predatore and the Purge Protocols you lifted from Arvin's command console.

A supersoldier? That explains the 'Predatore' trails Todd's been sniffing in their redacted data repo. Dr. Arvin's experiments are further along than we thought... and if you're telling me the truth, we can't leave until it gets contained. You have a temporary reprieve, Character, but I'll be keeping an eye you.

• I know you will, I'm counting on it.

• (ROGUE - FIGHT) Get out of my way, heroes!

Losers? Really? If you think that's going to get under my skin...

...you're absolutely right! If it's a fight you want, I'll mess up that pretty face of yours. Prepare to face the full power of these Nether-charged nanites, Character! No more holding back!

---

Dr. Todd

Speak to Dr. Todd

Dr. Todd studies you like you were a sample in a petri dish. Her thousand-yard stare raises concern for both you and her.

Of all the things I thought we would find here, your morally dubious face was not one of the items on my list. Now, do you care to explain why you're compromising our stakeout?

• (HERO - NEGOTIATE) Dr. Todd and Ravenstorm. To what do I owe the pleasure?

Dr. Todd seems taken aback by your casual demeanor.

No pleasure to be had, that's for certain. We're here trying to get the bottom of a hotbed of Council activity that, frankly, shouldn't be happening if the New Praetorians had truly delivered the killing blow like we all thought they had. And now we're wondering if you're in our way or not.

• (NEUTRAL - LEARN MORE) Tell me the situation, I'm not your enemy here.

Todd looks over at Ravenstorm, but Ravenstorm looks far more agitated and not in the best state of mind. Dr. Todd's eye pace back and forth in her head as she seems to be calculating the risk of telling you anything.

Okay, leap of faith here, Character. Ravenstorm and I want to purge the Council by any means available, and take this island back for the people, for real. We started deep covert ops to see where the notables had retreated to. We found a lot more than we expected, but also kept accumulating more questions than answers.

As you probably heard, Arakhn suffered a mild setback a few years back when her plot to infuse hundreds of Paragon citizens with nictus beings was thwarted, but Moonfire always suspected she would be back. Moonfire does not speak much about Arakhn, but when she does, it's always pained with memories she won't express. She must have known this particular Nictus for a long time.

Arakhn is making moves again, but it's very, very uncertain what the data is trying to show us right now.

• (NEUTRAL - LEARN MORE) Making moves?

Dr. Todd nods slowly.

Arakhn has been the champion of the N-Fragment infusions of Nictus into the Galaxy troops, bestowing them power without turning them into wolves, vampyri, or those horrendous Void Hunters. She's also the one who made the Cysts a reality, extending their potential from 'planetary infection' to 'galactic threat'.

Whatever Arakhn is doing, her latest movements have one thing in common - the Galaxy program is burgeoning, and the Void Hunters seem to be deployed less and less. In fact, we haven't seen one in a while. We thought that the Council might have been purging them from their ranks, assuming their allegiance remained with Requiem, but from intel we've captured, they are simply being ignored and withheld. Since Requiem's return, it makes sense that the troops he personally pioneered would be terminated. Instead we're seeing a complete phase-out of them into 'retirement'.

• (HERO - GAIN ALLIES) Maybe it's because they've got a new weapon in here

• (ROGUE - FIGHT) Retirement looks good on you two as well. (Fight)

• (ROGUE - FIGHT) On second thought, I don't want your help.

• (HERO - NEGOTIATE) Activity? They have a killdozer lurking in here.

• (ROGUE - FIGHT) Yawn. Are you trying to bore me to death?

• (ROGUE - EGO FIGHT) Get outta my way, you pathetic nobodies.

Dr. Todd sighs.

I've been looking for a chance to test my energy transference technology on a real threat. Commence field test!

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

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.

Editor's Note:

Only those who have chosen the Rogue Path during this arc get this mission chain.

(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

Neutral

Freaklok

Notable NPCs

• Maribel Sideris, Campaign Manager (NPC)
• Warrior Rioter (Warrior Boss, guarding Maribel Sideris, Campaign Manager)
• P0W3R5TR1P (Rikti Freak Slash Tank)
• Leonidas (Warrior Boss)
• Archon Lynch (Ascendant Archon Boss)
• Ab Che (Tsoo Boss)
• Commandant Morricone (PNCB Boss)
• Bronze Bird (Hero Corps Boss)
• Little League (Hero Corps Boss)
• Vulcannon (Hero Corps Boss)
• Titus (Elite Boss)
• Alexander Pavlidis (Boss, Ally)
• Aegialeus (Warrior Boss)
• Warrior Propagandist (Slasher Elite Boss)

Campaign Manager

Before Combat:

Warrior Rioter: Your boss is history, lady.

Maribel Sideris, Campaign Manager: Let me go, you thugs!

Combat Start

Warrior Rioter: When I'm done with you, you'll be history too!

Upon rescue

Maribel Sideris, Campaign Manager: Character! No time to lose. They dragged Alexander - I mean Mr. Pavlidis - off to an office building overlooking the Luau!

Maribel Sideris, Campaign Manager: The attack on the precinct is a distraction - don't fall for it!

Rioters Chatter

Before Combat:

Family Minion: Damn it all... take out the hero!

Warrior Minion Why are you here? Don't you have more important things to do?

---

Riot Leaders Chatter

Before Combat

P0W3R5TR1P: Ah, dementlemen and ladyborgs, it would appear our predilections for violence have earned us a modicum of returns! Have at the hero, when it's convenient! SMASH!

Combat Starts

P0W3R5TR1P: 01001001 01100110 00100000 01111001 01101111 01110101 00100000 01100011 01100001 01101110 00100000 01110010 01100101 01100001 01100100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01101001 01110011 00101100 00100000 01110100 01100001 01101011 01100101 00100000 01100001 00100000 01110111 01100001 01101100 01101011 00100000 01101111 01110101 01110100 01110011 01101001 01100100 01100101 00101110

---

Before Combat

Leonidas: No, I will not say the line.

Combat Starts

Leonidas: This is insanity. That's all you'll get.

---

Before Combat

Ab Che: Go back to your caves, you cretins. The Tsoo are not interested in your antics.

Combat Starts

Ab Che: Ah, the saviors of the city are late, as usual.

---

Before Combat

Archon Lynch: Get them!

Combat Starts

Archon Lynch: *sighs*

---

Before Combat

Commandant Morricone: Keep it up! I see the press on the outskirts!

Combat Starts

Commandant Morricone: Let's make a scene!

---

Before Combat

Titus: Nobody gets through until they're done with the traitor.

Combat Starts

Titus: Hold the line!

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

Upon rescue

Alexander Pavlidis: I'm not afraid to die... but I fear what this world and country would be coming to if my campaign had taken such a disastrous end.

Alexander Pavlidis: I owe you my life. If it is safe for me to leave I will coordinate with your benefactor through my campaign manager and see that you are compensated for your efforts.

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

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?

See Also

• Homecoming Story Arcs