“Two Tales, Two Cities” is a secondary mission in Starfield, accessible in New Atlantis. This mission is part of a larger quest series in collaboration with Sergeant Yumi from UC Security and becomes available after Search and Seizure. The mission’s plot revolves around an act of vandalism in New Atlantis’ MAST District.
- Side Mission in New Atlantis
- Planets: Jemison
- Rewards: 200 EXP & Credits proportional to your Character Level and Game Difficulty
How to Start Two Tales, Two Cities
To initiate this mission, you must first complete the “Search and Seizure” task for Sergeant Yumi, following the missions “Keeping the Peace” and “A Break at Dawn.” If Yumi doesn’t immediately offer you the mission, exit and re-enter the UC Security Office; this usually triggers the mission’s start.
Investigate the Incident at the Embassy District
The mission centers around a vandalism incident near the NAT tram station in the Embassy/MAST District. Officer Markkanen has already been assigned to the case and will be your point of contact.
When you reach the site, you’ll overhear a witness describing the suspect to Officer Markkanen as wearing a flannel shirt and trucker jacket and carrying a copy of “A Tale of Two Cities” which interestingly gives this quest its name. You can gather this information directly from the witness as well. The “crime scene” is marked by a piece of graffiti.
Speak to Officer Markkanen
The initial report of the vandalism was made by a MAST official who blamed Tahir, a youngster from the Well, but this account conflicts with the new witness information. Those familiar with the Well might recognize Tahir from the mission “The Kindness of Strangers.”
Speak to Functionary Gershon
Discuss all the evidence with Officer Markkanen, who will then suggest speaking with Functionary Gershon for more information.
Functionary Gershon can be found in the MAST Building, specifically in the Cabinet Chambers/Interstellar Affairs section. You may remember this location from your “Eyewitness” mission testimony.
A conversation will be automatically triggered when you approach Gershon in the Interstellar Affairs office. He attempts to deflect the conversation, advising you to look at his personal computer for more information.
Check the Computer for Evidence on the Vandal
Examining Gershon’s Computer Gershon’s computer contains three key entries: one on Tahir Vala, one about the Well, and another on “A Tale of Two Cities.”
The first entry is Gershon’s eyewitness account, including detailed timings of the incident. The second entry shows his negative view of the Well, labeling it “Dickensian.” He also accuses Tahir Vala of pickpocketing him previously, a claim based on searching the civilian database.
The final entry is a critique of “A Tale of Two Cities”, reflecting Gershon’s classist views, especially against the inhabitants of the Well. Notably, Gershon has a physical copy of the book and a flannel jacket like the one described by the witness in his personal trash. Collect these as evidence.
Speak to Office Markkanen
Now, return to Officer Markkanen to discuss your findings. It’s apparent that Gershon harbors strong contempt for the Well’s poor and is likely framing Tahir.
ArrestFunctionary Gershon at UC Security
Although you could conclude the quest by wrongfully accusing Tahir, the just course is to confront Gershon. This requires persuading Sergeant Yumi with a series of successful dialogue choices.
Utilize the evidence you’ve gathered to strengthen your persuasion. Remember, this is a difficult challenge, so saving your game beforehand and boosting your persuasion skills with items like wine or Hippolyta is advised.
Succeeding in the persuasion check rewards you with 200 XP and a significant credit bonus. However, Yumi informs you that your temporary position is no longer necessary due to resolved staffing issues, ending this quest.
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