Memory 3: The September Massacres
Welcome, Assassin, to one of the most harrowing memories in Arno's journey. The September Massacres are a brutal and chaotic affair, demanding precision, stealth, and quick thinking. This guide will help you navigate the blood-soaked streets and achieve full synchronization.
Objective 1: Infiltrate the Prison
Your first task is to gain entry into the Châtelet Prison, where your target, Rouille, is orchestrating the atrocities. The prison is heavily guarded, but several approaches offer opportunities for stealth.
- Rooftop Approach: The most direct and often safest route. Scale the buildings surrounding the prison. Look for an open window or a weak point in the roof on the north side of the prison. There's usually a single Brute patrolling this area; a well-timed Air Assassination will clear your path.
- Ground Level Stealth: If you prefer to stay grounded, approach from the west. Utilize the market stalls and hay carts for cover. There are usually two Agile Guards near the main gate. Distract them with a Cherry Bomb or use a Smoke Bomb to slip past.
- Side Entrance: On the east side, a less obvious entrance can be found through a small alleyway. This route often has fewer guards but may require a precise climb over a low wall.
Once inside the prison courtyard, immediately seek cover. The area is teeming with Citizen Militia and a few tougher Brutes. Prioritize silent takedowns using your Hidden Blade or Phantom Blade to thin out patrols.
Objective 2: Locate Rouille
Rouille is deep within the prison, overseeing the massacres. Your objective marker will guide you, but the path is fraught with danger. Expect close-quarters combat and numerous witnesses.
- Upper Levels: Rouille is typically found on the second floor of the main prison block. To reach him, you'll need to navigate through crowded corridors filled with frantic prisoners and zealous guards.
- Stealth is Key: Engage only when necessary. Use Cover Assassinations from behind pillars or through doorways. The Disguise skill (if unlocked) can be incredibly useful here, allowing you to walk past patrols undetected for a short period.
- Environmental Opportunities: Keep an eye out for environmental hazards. Barrels of oil can be shot with your Pistol to create diversions or take out groups of enemies. Hanging braziers can also be cut down for similar effects.
Objective 3: Assassinate Rouille
Upon reaching Rouille, you'll find him surrounded by a small contingent of loyal guards. This is where your combat skills will be tested, or your stealth prowess rewarded.
- Direct Confrontation (Risky): If you choose to engage directly, be prepared for a tough fight. Rouille himself is not a formidable fighter, but his bodyguards often include a Brute and a Seeker. Focus on parrying and breaking guard. Use Berserk Blades on the Brute to turn him against his allies, creating chaos.
- Stealth Assassination (Recommended): For full synchronization, a stealthy approach is highly recommended.
- Approach from Above: Look for opportunities to climb to the rafters or ledges above Rouille's position. A well-executed Air Assassination is the most satisfying and efficient method.
- Smoke Bomb Takedown: If an aerial approach isn't feasible, throw a Smoke Bomb into the group. This will stun everyone, allowing you to perform a quick assassination on Rouille before the smoke clears.
- Phantom Blade: If you have a clear line of sight and prefer to keep your distance, a headshot with the Phantom Blade can silently eliminate Rouille without alerting his guards, provided you are undetected.
Objective 4: Escape the Prison
After eliminating Rouille, the prison will be on high alert. Your escape route will likely be the path you came in, but expect increased resistance.
- Reverse Infiltration: Retrace your steps, using the same stealth tactics. The chaos you created might work to your advantage, as guards may be distracted by the aftermath of the assassination.
- Rooftop Escape: The quickest way out is often back to the rooftops. Look for climbable walls or scaffolding leading upwards.
- Don't Linger: Once outside the prison walls, sprint to a safe distance and blend into the crowd to lose any remaining pursuers. Your mission will conclude once you are anonymous.
Full Synchronization Bonus: To achieve full synchronization, you must remain undetected during the assassination of Rouille. Plan your approach carefully and utilize your tools effectively. Good luck, Assassin!