Days Gone Mission Guide: Mastering 'I've Pulled Weeds Before' & Saving Boozer

In the brutal world of Days Gone, survival isn't just about how many Freakers you can kill; it’s about the bonds you keep and the memories that drive you forward. One of the most poignant examples of this narrative depth is found in the interconnected missions 'I've Pulled Weeds Before' and 'Give Me a Couple Days'.

This guide breaks down these pivotal moments where Deacon St. John must bridge the gap between his past life with Sarah and his desperate present reality to save his best friend, Boozer. Whether you are playing for the first time or revisiting the rugged trails of the Pacific Northwest, this walkthrough provides the essential strategies and story context you need.

The Stakes: Survival at O'Leary Mountain

The mission begins with a somber atmosphere at the O'Leary Mountain Safehouse. Deacon’s best friend and brother-in-arms, Boozer, is in bad shape. His arm, burned by Rippers earlier in the story, is worsening.

– Deacon arrives at the safehouse, the weight of the world clearly on his shoulders.
– A tense and emotional conversation takes place. Boozer is trying to put on a brave face, but Deacon knows the infection is spreading. This interaction sets the stage for Deacon’s desperate search for a remedy.

A Ghost from the Past: The Sarah Flashback

To understand why Deacon knows how to treat Boozer's wound, the game takes us back to a simpler time. This lengthy flashback is one of the most beautiful sequences in Days Gone, offering a stark contrast between the lush, vibrant world of the past and the grey, decaying world of the present.

Learning the Land

At , we see Sarah Whitaker teaching Deacon how to identify and pick medicinal lavender. Sarah, a botanist, explains the healing properties of the plant, specifically its use as an antiseptic and its ability to treat burns.

Building the World of Days Gone

– As they walk toward the lake, their conversation reveals deeper layers of their relationship and Sarah’s research work.
– The dialogue shifts to local history and Deacon’s involvement with the Mongrels Motorcycle Club. These moments are crucial for players who want to understand Deacon’s internal conflict and his identity before the world ended.
– The mission objective within the flashback is simple: gather lavender. It’s a peaceful tutorial on gathering mechanics that carries immense weight later.
– The sequence concludes with a romantic moment by the water, cementing the emotional stakes for Deacon’s journey. He isn't just surviving; he’s carrying Sarah’s knowledge with him.

Present Day: The Hunt for Lavender at Horse Lake

Transitioning back to the present at , the tone shifts instantly. The lavender isn't a romantic gesture anymore—it’s a medical necessity. Deacon decides to head to the Horse Lake NERO Checkpoint to find the herbs Sarah once showed him.

The Ride to Horse Lake

– Deacon begins the ride to the NERO checkpoint. This segment highlights the importance of motorcycle maintenance and fuel management in Days Gone.
– You’ll notice Deacon navigating through hostile territory. While the video shows a smooth ride, players should be wary of random Freaker encounters or Marauder ambushes along these roads.

Gathering Under Pressure

– Upon arriving at the lake near the NERO checkpoint, the gameplay becomes a lesson in stealth and awareness. Unlike the flashback, the lake is now infested with Freakers.
Deacon must navigate the shoreline to find the blue-flowered stalks. The key here is to keep your eye on the mini-map and move slowly to avoid alerting the nearby Horde or roaming Swarmers.

Mission Success: Healing a Brother

Once the lavender is secured, Deacon wastes no time returning to his companion.

– Deacon begins the return trip to O'Leary Mountain.
– The payoff of the mission occurs as Deacon applies the lavender-based salve to Boozer’s arm. It’s a moment of relief in a world that offers very little of it.
– The mission officially concludes, granting Deacon XP and Trust, while moving the needle on the 'He's My Brother' storyline.

Actionable Insights for Players

To master these missions and improve your overall Days Gone experience, keep these tips in mind:

Stealth is Your Friend: When gathering lavender in the present day, don't rush. Use the bushes for cover and use your binoculars to tag Freakers before you move.
Focus on Botany: This mission introduces the importance of herbalism. Collecting plants isn't just for missions; you can sell them at camps to increase your Trust level and earn Credits for bike upgrades.
The Bike is Your Lifeline: Always park your bike facing the exit of a mission area. If things go south at the Horse Lake NERO checkpoint, you need to be able to hop on and move instantly.
Listen to the Dialogue: The flashbacks aren't just filler. They often contain hints about the world’s lore and Deacon’s motivations, which can make certain narrative choices later in the game more meaningful.

Conclusion

'I've Pulled Weeds Before' is more than just a fetch quest; it is a masterclass in narrative-driven gameplay. It forces the player to experience the loss of the old world while utilizing its lessons to survive the new one. By following this guide, you ensure that Boozer lives to fight another day and that Deacon stays one step ahead of the Freaker threat.

What do you think of Deacon and Sarah’s relationship? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to subscribe for more Days Gone walkthroughs and survival tips!