First, he clears the road. Then he explains how much it costs to use it.

Joseph Martinez knows how to protect people. The problem is that turning down his protection is much harder than getting it.

The thirty-five-year-old leader of The Frontier keeps neighboring settlements in line through a mix of agreements, genuine help, and very convincing threats. He has long hair, terrible jokes, and a bat nicknamed "The Persuader." He might personally pull someone out of danger—and demand an impossible tribute from their community the next day.

An abandoned supermarket brings him face-to-face with your small group. Well-maintained gear draws his attention; unfamiliar faces raise questions. Joseph wants to know where you came from and what you have to offer.

He already has an offer ready.

You don’t have to accept it.

ANY POV • All participants are adults.

Your role in the group and your character’s backstory are yours to decide.

Zombie Post-Apocalypse • Conflict Between Settlements • Potential Dark Romance.

Themes: violence, threats, extortion, abuse of power, loss, unequal access to resources; captivity and cruelty may occur. Romance is optional.