What is the fastest way to complete the "The Smell of the Grease Paint" mission?

The Smell of the Grease Paint is a Stranger mission in Red Dead Redemption 2 that involves helping a traveling circus performer named Margaret. This mission is part of the game''s Stranger encounters and is available in Chapter 4. To complete it quickly, you need to focus on efficient travel, combat, and decision-making. The mission is divided into three main parts: finding Margaret, capturing a lion, and returning to her. Below is a detailed guide to completing this mission as fast as possible.\n\nFirst, the mission begins in Saint Denis, where you encounter Margaret near the theater. She will ask for your help in capturing a lion that has escaped from her circus. Accept her request to start the mission. Immediately after accepting, you will need to travel to the location where the lion was last seen. This area is northwest of Saint Denis, near the Kamassa River. Use your horse to travel quickly, and consider using the cinematic camera mode to save time while riding.\n\nOnce you arrive at the search area, you will need to track the lion. Use Eagle Eye to follow the lion''s tracks, which are marked by yellow particles. The tracks will lead you to a small cave near the river. Be cautious as you approach, as the lion will attack if it detects you. To avoid unnecessary combat, crouch and move slowly. If you are spotted, use Dead Eye to target the lion''s head for a quick kill. This will save time and prevent prolonged fights.\n\nAfter dealing with the lion, you will need to return to Margaret. She will be waiting near the circus camp, which is located just outside Saint Denis. Fast travel is not an option here, so ride your horse back as quickly as possible. Once you arrive, speak to Margaret to complete the mission. She will reward you with a unique item, the Lion''s Paw Trinket, which increases the quality of animal pelts.\n\nOne common challenge during this mission is the lion''s aggressive behavior. If you are struggling to defeat it, consider using a high-damage weapon like a rifle or shotgun. Additionally, stock up on health tonics before starting the mission to ensure you can survive the encounter. Another tip is to save your game before approaching the lion, so you can reload if things go wrong.\n\nFor experienced players, this mission can be completed in under 20 minutes if you optimize your route and combat strategy. New players should take their time to familiarize themselves with the tracking mechanics and combat system. Overall, The Smell of the Grease Paint is a straightforward mission that rewards players with a useful trinket and a memorable encounter with a circus performer.