How do you trigger the "The Mercies of Knowledge" stranger encounter in Saint Denis?

The ''The Mercies of Knowledge'' stranger encounter in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a unique mission that introduces players to Marko Dragic, an eccentric inventor in Saint Denis. To trigger this encounter, you must first progress to Chapter 4 of the main story, as the mission becomes available only after completing certain story missions. This ensures that the player has access to Saint Denis and its surrounding areas.\n\nTo begin the encounter, head to the northern part of Saint Denis, near the train station. Look for a small park area with a fountain, where you will find Marko Dragic demonstrating his remote-controlled boat to a small crowd. The exact location is marked on your map with a white question mark once you are close enough. Approach the crowd and interact with Marko to initiate the mission.\n\nDuring the encounter, Marko will ask for your help in testing his invention. You will need to control the boat using a remote device, navigating it through a series of obstacles in the nearby water. This mini-game requires precision and patience, as the controls can be a bit tricky. If you struggle with the controls, take your time and practice moving the boat slowly to avoid hitting obstacles.\n\nAfter successfully completing the boat test, Marko will invite you to visit his laboratory in the Grizzlies East region. This is the second part of the mission, which involves traveling to his lab and assisting him with another experiment. The lab is located northeast of Annesburg, near the Roanoke Valley. The journey can be long, so make sure to prepare with enough supplies and a reliable horse.\n\nOnce at the lab, Marko will ask you to help power his machine using a series of electrical switches. Follow his instructions carefully, as activating the wrong switches can cause the machine to malfunction. After successfully powering the machine, Marko will reward you with a unique item and the mission will conclude.\n\nFor players who encounter difficulties during the boat control segment, it is recommended to save the game before starting the mission. This allows you to retry the mini-game without losing progress. Additionally, using a controller with precise thumbstick movements can make the boat navigation easier compared to keyboard controls.\n\nPractical tips for this mission include ensuring your horse is well-fed and rested before traveling to Marko''s lab, as the journey can be taxing. Also, keep an eye out for hostile wildlife or enemies along the way, especially in the Grizzlies East region. Completing this mission not only provides a unique story experience but also unlocks additional interactions with Marko Dragic later in the game.\n\nIn summary, ''The Mercies of Knowledge'' is a fascinating stranger encounter that showcases the game''s attention to detail and creativity. By following the steps outlined above, players can successfully trigger and complete this mission, gaining valuable rewards and insights into the world of Red Dead Redemption 2.