Walton · Chen Qianyu

The TGCC is probably in it for the money, right?

I did sell the sponsorship rights. But commercial applications of any treasure found...

Stop! I'm starting to feel ... that you're not much different from a treasure thief...

Simmer down, my partners! If you're interested, we can talk about it!

Not interested. Just take the Columbian tech you want and bust out of here, buddy.

Music to my ears! Here's to a successful partnership!

That is quite a tale. From my observations, the ambient energy has influenced the fauna in the dale ... and changed them.

Some became violent, while others gained intellect and sapience. Smartie probably belonged to the latter.

The poor thing was beset upon by ferocious rockhowlers, so it sought people for help. Fortunately, it found me and became my partner...

You call it your assistant ... and then use it as a bargaining chip in our deal. That's a bit shameless.

Heh, the art of negotiations. I believe you'll be helping it out along the way. Another win-win deal, isn't it?

Huh, you really are a crafty one. Regardless, I'll help it shoo off the nasty howlers!

Sounds like a great start for our partnership!

Yes. From what I've noticed, those noises happen along with earthquakes.

The banging and shaking only started after the Stockade bumpkins got here. They've been fooling around with the mechanisms.

Since then, frenzied beasties have kept showing up. I'm also a victim of their folly.

Perhaps some kind of power is trying to keep us out?

Mhmm... you're right. And as we approach the ruins at the bottom of the dale, this power becomes stronger.

So, I may need my reliable partners to help clear a path.