82

‘OK, it’s worth a look,’ agrees Uncle Jonas, when you tell him you want to search the university campus before the convoy takes the freeway south. ‘See if you can rustle up some polythene sheeting. We’re mighty short an’ we’ll be needin’ some real bad as soon as we hit the desert. We’ll wait right here for you an’ keep an eye on the road. Any trouble then jus’ give a holler.’

With your uncle’s request in mind, you walk towards the centre of the campus in search of what was once the chemistry faculty. Most of the buildings are just burnt-out, rubble-filled shells, their contents either buried beyond reach or looted months ago by roving city gangs. A shattered sign indicates the entrance to the building you seek, and your hopes rise when you notice that it is the least damaged structure on the campus.

Inside, the sound of your footsteps echoes along the dusty corridors as you make your way down to the basement storage levels. To your disappointment you discover little remaining there of practical value.

If you wish to continue your search, turn to 184.

If you decide to call off your search and return to the convoy, turn to 315.