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Blue Gate
Shani

With a Trace

That downed machine... We weren't the ones who did that. We know that there are stray survivors out there, but this? This goes far beyond a single person.

Key Takeaways

  • Given by Shani and takes place in Blue Gate.
  • Includes 4 objectives focused on exploration.
  • Rewards 2 items upon completion.
  • Sequel in a quest chain. You must complete the prior mission from Shani first.

Objectives

1.
Reach the Barren Clearing
2.
Find signs of who brought down the ARC machines
3.
Inspect the Adorned Wreckage
4.
Inspect the communications device

All objectives carry over between raids. You do not need to complete everything in a single run.

Walkthrough Tips

Search objectives have specific interaction zones you need to reach. Use your compass marker to navigate to the general area, then look for the highlighted interaction point. Some search areas may have multiple valid spots.

With multiple objectives spread across the map, consider tackling them over two or more raids rather than rushing through everything at once. Prioritize objectives that are close together.

This quest is part of a chain. Completing the previous quest(s) in the series is required before this one becomes available from the trader.

Recommended Loadout

Light Weapon (Pistol or SMG)

Exploration quests have less direct combat but you still need something for self-defense. A lightweight weapon keeps your mobility high.

Smoke Grenades

Smoke grenades provide cover when crossing open ground or when you need to disengage from an unexpected fight near an objective.

Zipline

Ziplines speed up navigation between objectives spread across the map. Place them on high points to create shortcuts for return trips.

Step-by-Step Completion Guide

Follow these steps to complete all objectives for With a Trace. Each step includes contextual advice based on the objective type.

1

Reach the Barren Clearing

Navigate to the marked location on your map. This is a waypoint objective. Once you arrive at the correct area, it will complete automatically or reveal the next step.

2

Find signs of who brought down the ARC machines

Follow your quest marker to the search area. The item or location will have a highlighted interaction prompt. Check multiple floors and rooms if the building has interior areas.

3

Inspect the Adorned Wreckage

Approach the object or area and interact with it. Inspection objectives are usually straightforward but may trigger additional objectives or narrative events.

4

Inspect the communications device

Approach the object or area and interact with it. Inspection objectives are usually straightforward but may trigger additional objectives or narrative events.

Map: Blue Gate

The Blue Gate valley serves as a primary expansion zone for Speranza operations. Rolling terrain dotted with pre-collapse structures, olive groves, and communication infrastructure. ARC patrols are moderate but consistent, with occasional Harvester activity near resource-rich zones.

Use the terrain elevation to your advantage. The ridgelines and church rooftops provide sightlines for spotting patrols before they spot you. Stay near cover when crossing open ground between objectives.

15 total quests take place in Blue Gate. Browse all quests to find others on this map.

Quest Chain

This quest is part of a storyline from Shani. Complete quests in order to unlock the next mission in the chain.

With a Trace(current)

About Shani

Infrastructure & Engineering Lead
25 quests total

Shani runs the construction and maintenance operations out of Speranza. Her quests focus on building Raider infrastructure, securing outposts, and establishing communication networks across the Rust Belt. If there's a structure that needs reinforcing or a signal relay that needs activation, Shani is the one coordinating the effort.

Visit the Traders page to see all available traders and their inventories.

Rewards

looting mk 2

looting mk 2

medium shield

medium shield

Hover over items for detailed stats. Rewards are received upon turning in the completed quest.

Quest Giver

Shani

Infrastructure & Engineering Lead

Quick Reference

Trader
Shani
Map
Blue Gate
Objectives
4
Rewards
2 items
Chain Position
Sequel

Related Resources

→ Items Database→ Traders Guide→ Blueprints Database→ ARC Machines Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start the With a Trace quest?

You need to complete "Reduced to Rubble" first. After turning in the prerequisite quest, speak with Shani in Speranza to pick up With a Trace.

What are the rewards for completing With a Trace?

You receive 2 items as rewards upon turning in the completed quest to Shani. Check the rewards section above for the full item list and quantities.

Where does With a Trace take place?

With a Trace objectives are located in Blue Gate. Use the in-game quest tracker to navigate to each objective location once you deploy to the correct map.