Walking in Balance (1/4)

Emma's eyes brighten when she notices the juniper berries in your hand.

Good. These will work perfectly.

She takes the berries, examining them with practiced efficiency.

The next step requires something with a bit more... sting to it.

Are you ready for the next one?

Emma looks up from sorting dried herbs as you approach her workstation.

Those juniper berries grow on the bushes just west of here (location 11,1). Look for the small blue-purple berries among the green needles. Bring back at least three and we'll start your first lesson.

As you approach the small trading post, a middle-aged woman with sun-weathered skin looks up from grinding herbs. Her eyes quickly take in your haggard appearance - Salt Flats dust still clinging to your clothes.

Another survivor from the exodus?

She pours water into a cup and offers it.

Chemical disaster. Scavengers cracked open something that should've stayed buried.

She studies you as you drink.

You're lucky. Many didn't make it.

She nods toward Aniid Kin in the distance.

They won't turn away refugees, but resources are stretched. Everyone who stays contributes.

Her gaze drops to the strange device in your pack - metallic, with faded "CE" letters.

What's that?

She pulls back, deliberately casual.

The Institute studies those. They'll want to know. But first - I need help.

She points south toward a rocky outcropping.

Medicine for newcomers. Gather three juniper berries from those bushes. I'll show you how to make something useful.