View source for Mission:Collateral Damage - Part Three: On the Home Front

==== {{UL|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.

*{{green|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.

'''{{darkorange|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.

===== {{UL|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|Entrance=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.|Primary=Infiltrate the 5th Column Outpost|Secondary=Defeat the outpost leader|Additional=**Talk to the Officer
**Use the comm terminal|Completion=You've learned of an attack on the UNSF facility!|Map=Abandoned_Warehouse_30_Layout_01_02}}

'''Notable NPCs'''
* 5th Column Officer {{Named|Faction=5th Column|Type=5th Column Krieger|Text=Krieger|Rank=Boss}}
* Communication Terminal (Object)

'''Enemies'''

{{Enemy 5th Column}}

{{NPC Text|title=5th Column Officer Dialogue|text=
'''Before Combat:'''
:'''5th Column Officer:''' This is outrageous. The Column should not sit and beg for these scraps! Our strength alone is enough to destroy the Council!
'''Combat Start:'''
:'''5th Column Officer:''' {{Character}}! I shall rid myself of this wretched assignment when I present you to my superiors!
'''25% Health:'''
:'''5th Column Officer:''' Ugh... this truly is the worst day of my military career...}}

{{Mission Briefing|Contact=5th Column Officer|Text=
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?

*{{green|I'm here to learn about the Column's new informant. Start talking.}}

'''{{darkorange|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.

*{{green|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. 

'''{{darkorange|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.

*{{green|So you do communicate from here... interesting.}}

'''{{darkorange|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... 

'''{{darkorange|The officer falls silent for a long moment, eyeing you warily.}}'''

Why... are you staring at me like that?

*{{green|I was just thinking... Column soldiers all sound the same. It must be the filters on your masks.}}

'''{{darkorange|The officer pauses in thought, then tenses up, pulling away from you.}}'''

You... you wouldn't DARE...

*{{green|[Forcibly remove the soldier's mask filter]}}

'''{{darkorange|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.}}'''

*{{green|Leave}}

'''5th Column Officer:''' You... fiend...}}

{{flashback|title=The following only appears when this mission is played via [[Flashback]] and you have the Ouroboros Teleporter clue.|text=
{{Mission Briefing|Contact=5th Column Officer|Text=
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?

{{darkorange|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.}}

*{{green|I'm here to learn about the Column's new informant. Start talking.}} {{DialogueLoop}}
*{{green|Actually, I want your mask. I think it would look good on me.}}

:{{darkorange|The officer pauses in shock, then tenses up, pulling away from you. He wasn't expecting ''that'' answer.}}

:You... you wouldn't DARE...

*{{green|Forcibly remove the soldier's mask filter}} {{DialogueLoop}}
}}}}

{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Communication Terminal|Text=
'''{{darkorange|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-

*{{green|[Place Filter] Calm down, I'm here.}}

'''{{darkorange|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?

*{{green|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.

'''{{darkorange|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.

*{{green|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 {{GenderDialogue|male=him|female=her}} fight personally, and I can't stress enough that {{GenderDialogue|male=he|female=she}} '''must''' be considered a threat. Make {{GenderDialogue|male=him|female=her}} your highest priority target.

'''{{darkorange|It sounds like an attack on the UNSF base is imminent. Laura may be in danger!}}'''

*{{green|... Understood.}}}}

{{flashback|title=The following only appears when this mission is played via [[Flashback]] and you have the Ouroboros Teleporter clue.|text=
{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Communication Terminal|Text=
{{darkorange|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?

*{{green|[Place Filter] Calm down, I'm here.}}

{{darkorange|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?

*{{green|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. 

{{darkorange|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.

*{{green|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 {{GenderDialogue|male=him|female=her}} fight personally, and I can't stress enough that {{GenderDialogue|male=he|female=she}} '''must''' be considered a threat. Make {{GenderDialogue|male=him|female=her}} your highest priority target.

{{darkorange|The attack on the UNSF base is imminent. You hold the Ouroboros Teleporter in the palm of your hand.}}

*{{green|Understood.}}
}}}}

===== {{UL|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'''

'''{{darkorange|Laura isn't responding to your signal. This... does not bode well.}}'''

{{Mission Objective|Entrance=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!|Primary=Defend the UNSF Base|Secondary=Find Laura|Additional=**Use the nearby terminal
**Break the 5th Column siege!|Completion=You have broken the 5th Column's siege!|Map=ABANDONED_TECH_BASE_ASSAULT}}

'''Enemies'''

{{Enemy 5th Column}}

'''Notable NPCs'''
* Laura Lockhart (Ally, non-combat)
* Field Marshal Metzger  {{Named|Faction=5th Column|Type=Nacht Elite Oberst|Rank=Boss}} ''With AV Resistance''
* Nebel Praktikant x 48 {{Named|Faction=5th Column|Type=Nebel Praktikant|Rank=Underling}}

''Upon Entry''
{{divbox|darkgreen| |.*tschhhhh* -nyone can hear me, this is Petty Officer Laura Lockhart of the United Nations Special Forces. We are under attack by a superior force and request immediate assistance. All avail- *tschhhhh*}}

''Further In''
{{divbox|darkgreen| |.*tschhhhh* -maybe half of our forces. I repeat: we've taken very heavy losses, we've... ROBERTSON! GET DOWN! GE- *tschhhhh*}}

''Further  In''
{{divbox|darkgreen| |.*tschhhhh* -know how many are left. They've got me pinned in a corner. Robertson's gone, Maybeck doesn't have long... if anyone can hear this, ANYONE, please send h- *tschhhhh*}}

{{NPC Text|title=Guards Dialogue|text=
'''Before Combat:'''
:'''Nacht Rifle:''' This is tiresome. Execute her and finish sweeping the area.
:'''Raserei Fire:''' With pleasure...
'''Combat Start:'''
:'''Guard:''' There's {{Character}}! Fire at will!}}

{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Laura Lockhart|Text=
'''{{darkorange|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... 

'''{{darkorange|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...

*{{green|Hush. We need to get you medical attention.}}

:'''{{darkorange|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. 

:'''{{darkorange|She smiles at you. Despite her condition, the smile seems genuine.}}'''

:Hey, cheer up, buddy. We've got them... on the run... 

:'''{{darkorange|Laura closes her eyes, and breathes out a soft sigh. Her eyes remain closed, but the slight smile on her face remains.}}'''

:*{{green|Damn...}}

:'''{{darkorange|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.}}'''

:*{{green|Investigate the terminal}}

*{{green|I don't have time for this. The Column are still swarming all over this place.}}

:'''{{darkorange|Laura's face becomes grim, but she nods at you.}}'''

:That's the spirit... go get 'em... sir. 

:'''{{darkorange|Laura smiles to herself, amused at her use of your honorary title.}}'''

:It was... an honor... 

:'''{{darkorange|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.}}'''

:*{{green|Rest well, Lockhart}}

:'''{{darkorange|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.}}'''

:*{{green|Investigate the terminal}}}}

{{flashback|title=The following only appears when this mission is played via [[Flashback]] and you have the Ouroboros Teleporter clue.|text=
{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Laura Lockhart|Text=
{{darkorange|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... 

{{darkorange|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...

*{{green|Hush. We need to get you medical attention.}} {{DialogueLoop}}
*{{green|(Place the Ouroboros Teleporter on her forehead)}}

{{darkorange|You place the Ouroboros Teleporter on Laura's forehead, not wasting any time.}}

What is...?

{{darkorange|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.}}

{{Mission Clue|Name=Laura's Fate|Text=You 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.}}

*{{green|(Investigate the terminal)}}
}}}}

{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Comm Terminal|Text=
'''{{darkorange|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?

*{{green|Laura's dead. The 5th Column are storming the base... where are you?}}

'''{{darkorange|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. 

'''{{darkorange|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.

*{{green|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.

:*{{green|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... 

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:*{{green|It doesn't, Leon. You can stop this war, and end the suffering.}}

::'''{{darkorange|Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank. }}'''

::'''{{darkorange|Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.}}'''

::*{{green|Leave}}

:*{{green|Not as sorry as you're going to be, Leon. I'll find you, sooner or later.}}

::'''{{darkorange|Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank. }}'''

::'''{{darkorange|Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.}}'''

::*{{green|Leave}}

*{{green|You cowardly piece of trash! I'll make you PAY!}}

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:*{{green|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.

:*{{green|It's a shame. I always thought you were one of the good guys.}}

::'''{{darkorange|Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank. }}'''

::'''{{darkorange|Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.}}'''

::*{{green|Leave}}

:*{{green|Run, Leon. Run hard. When I get out, I'm coming for you.}}

::'''{{darkorange|Your words fall on deaf ears. As you are speaking, Leon cuts the signal, and the terminal goes blank. }}'''

::'''{{darkorange|Though the signal is lost, the terminal still displays tracking info for its origin. You make a point of recording the coordinates before leaving.}}'''

::*{{green|Leave}}}}

{{flashback|title=The following only appears when this mission is played via [[Flashback]] and you have the Laura's Fate clue.|text=

{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Comm Terminal|Text=
'''{{darkorange|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?

*{{green|Laura's gone. The 5th Column are storming the base... where are you?}} {{DialogueLoop}}

}}}}


{{NPC Text|title=Field Marshal Metzger Dialogue|text=
'''Before Assault:'''
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Ah. {{Character}}.
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Our informant was correct in his assessment of your abilities.
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' I was beginning to grow... disappointed in the lackluster defenses in this facility.
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' You, however, should prove to be a... valuable exercise.
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Most valuable, indeed.

'''Begin Assault:'''
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' First company, forward!

'''During Assault:'''
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Second company, forward!
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Third company!
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Tch... Fourth company, NOW!
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Imbeciles! Fifth company, attack!
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' This is a disgrace! Do NOT disappoint me!

'''Combat Start:'''
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' Hmph! It appears this exercise has culled more from the herd than I had anticipated.
:'''Field Marshal Metzger:''' No matter. I will handle you myself.}}

{{flashback|title=The following only appears when this mission is played via [[Flashback]] and you have the Laura's Fate clue.|text=
{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Mender Valen|Text=
{{darkorange|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.

*{{green|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.

*{{green|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.

:*{{green|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.

::{{darkorange|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.

::{{darkorange|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.

::{{darkorange|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".

::*{{green|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. 

:::{{darkorange|A small smile returns to her face.}}

:::But I am glad you came to see me. Let's work together again, some other time.

{{Mission Clue|Name=Mender Laura|Text=According 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.}}

:::*{{green|(Leave)}}

::*{{green|Wait... are you talking about Flower Knight?}}

:::{{darkorange|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... 

:::{{darkorange|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 Badge|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.

:::{{darkorange|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.

:*{{green|I want to see her. Make sure she is alright with this.}} {{DialogueLoop}}
}}}}

===== {{UL|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'''

'''{{darkorange|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|Entrance=These are the coordinates you recorded after tracing Leon's signal. With any luck, he'll still be here.|Primary=Track down Leon|Secondary=Speak with Leon|Completion=You've intercepted Leon, and ended the 5th Column's surge!|Map=5TH_COLUMN_WAREHOUSE_LEON_FIGHT}}

'''Enemies'''

{{Enemy 5th Column}}

'''Notable NPCs'''
* [[Leon]] ([[Rogues Gallery#Leon|Rogues Gallery]] [[Boss]])
* Commandant Eberhart {{Named|Faction=5th Column|Rank=Boss}}

{{flashback|title=The following only appears when this mission is played via [[Flashback]] and you have the Mender Laura clue.|text=
* Mender Laura (Ouroboros Lieutenant)

{{NPC Text|title=Mender Laura|text=
:'''Mender Laura:''' Petty Officer Laura Lockhart, reporting for duty, sir!}}

{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Mender Laura|ContactLink=Laura Lockhart|Image=Contact Small Laura Lockhart.jpg|Text=
Petty Officer Laura Lockhart, reporting for duty, sir!

{{darkorange|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.

*{{green|I am not your superior officer!}}

:{{darkorange|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.

:{{darkorange|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.

:*{{green|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.

::{{darkorange|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.

::*{{green|He wanted to be a hero, once. Maybe I can convince him to come around.}}

:::{{darkorange|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.

:::{{darkorange|She reaches inside her uniform's pocket and grabs a key.}}

:::Ready to be a hero?

:::*{{green|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.

::::{{darkorange|Laura offers you the key with a grateful smile in her eyes.}}

::::Goodbye, {{Character}}. Thank you for everything.

::::*{{green|(Take the key) Goodbye, Laura.}}

::*{{green|I'll make sure that traitor is locked up for a very long time.}}

:::{{darkorange|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...

:::{{darkorange|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.

:::*{{green|We'll see. Let's get to work.}} {{DialogueLoop}}

::*{{green|Prison is too good for him. I'm putting him down.}}

:::{{darkorange|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.

:::*{{green|Fine. He will rot in jail. I promise.}} {{DialogueLoop}}

*{{green|We have no time to waste. Leon might still be here.}} {{DialogueLoop}}
}}
'''Badge'''

Completion of this dialogue awards the [[Guardian of Forever Badge]].
{{BadgeBox|Guardian of Forever}}
}}

{{NPC Text|title=Leon Dialogue|text=
'''On approach'''
:'''Leon:''' As I told you before, I-
:'''Leon:''' Wait. Quiet!
:'''Commandant Eberhart:''' Handle this... complication, Leon. I am running short on patience.}}

{{Mission Briefing|Contact=Leon|Text=
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. 

'''{{darkorange|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?

*{{green|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?

:*{{green|And if you fail? If this war continues, and you have nothing to show for it?}}

:'''{{darkorange|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... 

:'''{{darkorange|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?

:*{{green|My mark on three. One, two...}}

:'''{{darkorange|Leon smirks, and tenses his body in preparation.}}'''

:*{{green|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. 

:'''{{darkorange|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?

:*{{green|Leon... you've done things that can't go unanswered.}}

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:*{{green|Very well.}}

*{{green|I can't let this continue, Leon. Whatever it is you're planning, it ends now.}}

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:*{{green|Then I only have one thing to take care of.}}

:...Yes. Yes, I suppose you do.

:'''{{darkorange|Leon turns away, as the soldiers behind him converge on you.}}'''

:*{{green|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. 

:'''{{darkorange|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?

:*{{green|Leon... you've done things that can't go unanswered.}}

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:'''{{darkorange|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.

:*{{green|Very well.}}

*{{green|I should expect that would be obvious, after what you did. You won't leave here alive.}}

:'''{{darkorange|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}}?

:*{{green|More than sure. You're not getting away this time, murderer.}}

:Very well...!

:*{{green|This one's for Laura.}}}}

'''Badge'''

Completion of this mission awards the War Hero badge.
{{BadgeBox|War Hero}}

'''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.<noinclude>[[Category:Laura Lockhart Missions|Collateral Damage - Part Two: Wars of Old]][[Category:Badge Missions|Collateral Damage - Part Two: Wars of Old]]</noinclude>