How Much Do You Know?

Paula contacts you on your way back from a supply run. Runner 17 has spotted a civilian wandering nearby. She seems unconcerned, despite being in zombie country. Paula sends you off to find her before the zombies do.

You intercept the lost civilian, Lauren, who’s on a journey to a haven called Gladstone. Paula’s never heard of it. She asks you to escort Lauren while she looks it up.

Lauren guides you towards Gladstone as she talks about the reclusive settlement she hails from, and the Rofflenet forum she belongs to. You’ve picked up a zombie – Lauren isn’t worried, but she could use some cardio. Might as well speed up.

Lauren drops a bombshell: she doesn’t believe in zombies. According to her forum, they’re disguised agents from a nebulous enemy. Paula loses her cool, until Lauren takes your headset. We’re attracting more pursuers, and if the enemy thinks we’re onto them, they’ll kill us.

Lauren admits she’s an outcast from her community, who found comfort through the forum. A close encounter with a zombie rattles her, especially when she realises that it’s another forum poster. She fears Gladstone is under attack and in need of rescue – you need to hurry!

You reach Gladstone, and find no trace of any settlement. Paula’s worked out the truth. There’s no such place as Gladstone. It was only ever a rumour online. With Lauren lost and devastated, Paula suggests you bring her home.