Conference of the Four
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Brief
The United Workers' Syndicates of Talos II (UWST), Talos-II General Chamber of Commerce (TGCC), and Hongshan Academy of Sciences (HAS) have jointly requested a secret meeting with the Endfield Industries. Go to Dijiang to join a remote conference with representatives from the three parties.
Unlock
Rewards
Operational EXP ×100 Operational EXP ★★★★★ Raises the Endministrator's Authority Level. 
Origeometry ×1 Origeometry ★★★★★★ An extremely rare crystal habit of Originium with many potential uses. 
Intermediate Combat Record ×6 Intermediate Combat Record ★★ A material that provides decent EXP for leveling up Lv.1-60 operators. Overview › 
Arms INSP Kit ×4 Arms INSP Kit ★★★ A material that gives decent weapon EXP. Overview › 
Protoprism ×3 Protoprism ★★★ A material that upgrades operator skills. Overview › 
T-Creds ×1,900 T-Creds ★★★★ TC for short. This currency is recognized and used in many places. Opening dialogue
10
Yvonne
Good work out there, people! I'm almost done here.
Yvonne
SUCCESS! This time, I've added a novel design feature that I've never tested before.
Yvonne
Time is short, so I skipped a few verification steps. You can treat this as a temporary test component.
Yvonne
Because I applied a new, game-changing idea! The component is directly powered by the Protocol-Originium, while amplification by the Protosync would achieve the desired Blight scanning feature.
Yvonne
I also optimized the power conduction process and eliminated the overly bloated redundancy. For blight patches about fifty to several hundred square meters, this should totally work.
Yvonne
*Sigh* Okay, it isn't capable of dealing with rifts. But with the characteristic data sets we collected, the Protosync can now perform some basic functions.
Yvonne
Well, I guess I've spoken more than enough. The best validation is through proper hands-on experience. Let's head downstairs.
Yvonne
Still analyzing and sorting out the data. Filtering will be done in a bit.
Yvonne
I also used the time to come up with a solution to your Active Blight problem. Oh, if only I could kick off projects first and worry about approvals later...
Yvonne
I'll load this up to your Protosyncs.
Steps
1 Go to Dijiang and initiate the conference View on map
Dialogue
Perlica
Channel encryption completed. Contact code U3 verified. Initiate connection to the channel.
Perlica
This is OMV Dijiang. Is the audio channel stable for our three honorable representatives?
Perlica
This concludes the operational summary of Endfield Industries in Valley IV. The digital report has been distributed to all delegates simultaneously.
Perlica
Given the threats encountered during our deployment of the Protocol Automation-Core, we conclude that the Zeroth Directive is being targeted and obstructed with deliberate intent.
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
Pardon if I offend, Endministrator, but I must verify the sections in the report regarding the current state of your memory faculties...
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
...At least your condition has not deteriorated. I offer you my sincere wish for your speedy recovery.
S
Spokesperson of the TGCC (Spokesperson of the TGCC)
We need more than just courage and unity to overcome challenges. Planning and contingent alternatives are far more important, and these are the elements that we do not lack.
R
Representative of the UWST (Representative of the UWST)
To refocus on the issue: the harm caused to the people of Valley IV constitutes a serious breach of UWST's core interests. The Bonekrusher Clan will face region-wide pursuit, with authorization granted for immediate neutralization without prior notice.
S
Spokesperson of the TGCC (Spokesperson of the TGCC)
Although a particular gentleman in our midst is getting excited about certain prospects, we must update all attendants with bad news.
S
Spokesperson of the TGCC (Spokesperson of the TGCC)
During the Valley IV incident, the Order of Steel Oath picked up signals of non-Aggeloid activities. The location is near a rift along the Northern Front.
Perlica
......
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
Also during this time, an Aldertone traveling in the south found tracks that we've never seen before — and these tracks are still giving off Æther emissions as we speak.
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
I believe everyone knows what this is about. If we were to assume the worst, the great enemy from a century ago is planning a return. Its vanguard has already paid us a visit.
R
Representative of the UWST (Representative of the UWST)
Everyone, let us confront the reality before us. The gravity of the situation leaves no space for delayed or indecisive responses.
R
Representative of the UWST (Representative of the UWST)
Pursuant to the Band Accord, the Accordatories shall restore the special authority level of Endfield Industries regarding the entirety of the Civilization Band, effective immediately.
S
Spokesperson of the TGCC (Spokesperson of the TGCC)
Priority access and authority to execute on-site disposition shall be restored to the Endministrator in the agreed-upon regions. The Accordatories shall support Endfield Industries in executing crisis management operations within territories under Accord jurisdiction.
Perlica
We deeply appreciate your support. Endfield intends to initiate a post-incident investigation at the earliest opportunity. Dijiang shall report all investigative findings to the Civilization Band in full.
S
Spokesperson of the TGCC (Spokesperson of the TGCC)
This vibe reminds me of that meeting ten years ago. Endministrator and Supervisor Perlica, I hope to host you both in the free city of La Fantoma.
Perlica
...Understood. We shall address this matter with the gravity it demands.
Perlica
These new findings have everyone on edge... We must begin resolving the matter right away.
Xaihi
Supervisor Perlica, the HAS has sent a set of highly classified authorization protocols. Do you have the time to process them right now?
Perlica
Okay, Endmin. I'll talk to you later.
C
Calm Voice (Representative of the UWST)
Central Ministerial Committee of the United Workers' Syndicates of Talos II speaking. Channel is clear.
C
Clear Voice (Spokesperson of the TGCC)
The representative spokesperson of the Talos-II General Chamber of Commerce, now connected. Channel is clear.
F
Firm Voice (Tianshi of HAS)
Affiliated Hongshan Academy of Sciences of Tianshi Bureau of Great Yan. Link verified, channel is clear.
Perlica
Without further delay, I am Supervisor Perlica of Endfield Industries. I respectfully request the assembly's attention as I brief the current situation.
Perlica
Pursuant to our considerations of the Band Accord, we —
R
Representative of the UWST (Representative of the UWST)
This is not an isolated incident. The spread of Æther has gained significant speed.
R
Representative of the UWST (Representative of the UWST)
Supporting the Order of Steel Oath is the priority for our Industrial Mothership. We must crush the enemy threat in its infancy.
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
Suspicious signs have been identified in the Wuling Scientific Developmental District under HAS jurisdiction. We have proactively conveyed this information to the UWST and the TGCC.
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
Our findings at Wuling share many similarities to the incident at Valley IV. We kindly request that Endfield representatives visit our facility soon to prioritize this matter.
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
If there are no further matters, this ad hoc meeting is hereby adjourned. We anticipate the forthcoming formal meeting with the Endministrator. Until we reconvene.
Perlica
Similarities...? Do they include ... Æther rifts?
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
The sighting was reported by the Wuling Scientific Developmental District. It is also one of the target locations of our current plan.
T
Tianshi of HAS (Tianshi of HAS)
Given the ties between Wuling and Endfield, I believe everyone understands its importance to the Civilization Band... We kindly request your aid.
C
Conference Attendants
......
Radio
?
???
You gave everything to ensure the survival of life.
?
???
With all retreat cut off, you placed your hope in the Zeroth Directive.
2 Take a temporary break View on map
Radio
?
???
Go forth and touch it. You have one last chance.
?
???
Reclaim the history that was yours. Remember your calling.
?
???
This is the only gift you left for yourself.
3 Go forth
4 Touch
Other dialogue
112 Game scripting dialogue not tied to a specific quest step.
Yvonne
This device is special. It simulates Blight wavelengths to quickly make glops of Blight.
Yvonne
Careful now! I did say "simulate" but Blight glops is unpredictable. So, I kept the simulator here for safety considerations. Heh, never thought I would be activating it today.
Yvonne
I've completed all the pre-operational checks. I'll activate the simulator and let you test out the component's scanning feature. Let's see if you can locate the Blight Core with the new component.
Yvonne
Just stay in the containment zone and you'll be safe. I'm here so there's no need to be afraid.
Yvonne
Test component feature V&V complete. Leave the packaging to me. I'll also refer to your usage logs and regularly iterate on stable releases.
Yvonne
I also verified the properties of this Blight incident. Nefarith was using existing energy pools of the Æther rift. She can't create new rifts out of nothing, at least for now.
Yvonne
Nevertheless, this remains the most severe Blight incident in Valley IV in the last ten years. If we'd let Nefarith have her way, half the entire Valley would've been gone.
Yvonne
Unfortunately, she slipped through our fingers. Now, we managed to seal the Valley IV rift mainly because we have plenty of data from our Æther Test Site.
Yvonne
Tata's sealing of the rift is a very, very rare exception...
Chen Qianyu
Actually ... during our last battle ... Tata sacrificed itself...
Yvonne
...*Sigh*.
Yvonne
I thought as much ... when I saw the anomalous readings after the rift disappeared.
Yvonne
You didn't really think I'd throw a grief tantrum, do you? Is that why you were so measured and hesitant when talking?
Chen Qianyu
No, it's not like that. It's just ... you did so much to build Tata. So did Andre and Crowe. But we...
Yvonne
Come on, guys, don't be so hard on yourselves.
Yvonne
Tata's sacrifice saved countless lives at Valley IV. As a scientist, I'm genuinely happy about this, and I'm glad that it completed its duty.
Yvonne
It's natural for us to miss Tata and feel sad. But what we should do is remember how many lives it saved, and make full use of all the data it provided for us.
Yvonne
And then we'll do our best to avert the next crisis, right?
Yvonne
Absolutely! Such panache and confidence! No wonder you're the Endministrator!
Yvonne
Alright, we should be done with the data simulation. Now, run along and chase down that signal for me. I would be very upset if we had to endure more Æther eruptions!
Perlica
Fiona, can you help Yvonne trace that signal?
Fiona the Comms Officer
Originium Science Park data link request verified. Zero issues. We can now input our directives.
Fiona the Comms Officer
The target's current location is ... the Power Plateau, near the Originium Power Plant.
Yvonne
Okay. Time to start our field test! I need to find out which punk is responsible for that annoying blip on my radar!
Yvonne
Now I wonder ... what emotes would Tata use when it sees the crisis ending in Valley IV—
Yvonne
Although the datasets offer valuable references, I'm afraid we can't replicate that rift sealing measure any time soon.
Chen Qianyu
I thought the signal was next to the Power Plant... Yvonne, you sure you gave us the right coordinates?
Yvonne
Data feedback looks stable. There shouldn't be any problems...
Chen Qianyu
What's that? Did some machine just explode?
Perlica
No. It's a battle!
Yvonne
What?! You gotta go and check it out! I'll be with you in a bit!
Perlica
But our Endmin's lost all memory. We can't force a drowning person to learn to swim. It makes no sense.
?
???
Now, now, we didn't come up with the Automated Industry Complex to make bottles and jars. Remember the Assimilated Universe? If the Protocol-Originium can find...
?
???
That means you're doing fine. Letting Perlica hang around with you seems pretty helpful for your recovery.
Perlica
M3, I believe this is the Endmin's "first" meeting with you. And Endmin, you might not remember this, but M3 was right next to me during your awakening.
M
M3
I'm *also* here to feed you additional intel about that special request from HAS. Perlica, the source of trouble is the Wuling Very Large Rift.
M
M3
It's the largest Æther rift of the Civilization Band. Unfortunately, we picked up traces of Æther energy activities at that place — traces that are completely identical with the signal samples of Valley IV.
M
M3
Every Endfielder is working hard to solve this issue, so I'm not too worried about it. What makes me really concerned is you, Endmin.
M
M3
If something within the Ætherside is still struggling to return to this planet ... then Nefarith is just a small-timer meant to divert our attention.
M
M3
Our enemies are closely tied to the Æther. The Protocol Automation-Core will be a thorn in their eyes... But they won't slow down just to cater to your memory loss.
M
M3
Good. You're still your old self. I knew Perlica worried too much.
M
M3
I really want to be a part of your Wuling trip, but we got bigger problems at other places. Go and deal with Nefarith. I believe we will meet again soon.
Perlica
Endmin...
?
???
...It's got nothing to do with the Sarcophagus. The damage dealt to the Originium is metaphysical in nature. The Endmin's health will *only* get worse with every awakening.
?
???
The repairs can only be performed by the Endmin. Our mission is to create favorable conditions.
?
???
Yo. Just woke up? We were talking about you just now.
Perlica
But the memory loss means we're running out of time.
?
???
Then you should have faith in the Endmin.
M
M3
Yes, I was. Allow me to introduce myself. I'm M3. As for who I am... I'm your friend. That should suffice.
Perlica
M3 is also one of the executors of the Zeroth Directive. She specifically made this trip back to Dijiang in order to verify your status, Endmin.
M
M3
Nefarith, I bet. She's not even trying to hide her next objective. I think she's doing this on purpose to taunt us.
Perlica
M3 is one of our elite operators. She is responsible for carrying out combat missions of the highest secrecy and utmost danger.
Perlica
Although the Civilization Band secured our right of survival during the two Aggeloi Wars, many factions and their stragglers have not given up their dreams of our destruction.
Perlica
M3 has removed many obstacles, both overt and covert, for Endfield. Her actions gave us the chance to complete our preparations for the Protocol Automation-Core.
Perlica
Wuling City is a key center of science and research of the Hongshan Academy of Sciences. The HAS is a long-time partner of Endfield. It's also why Chen got involved with Endfield in the first place.
Perlica
In addition to monitoring the Very Large Rift, Wuling City also built plenty of living amenities in the region.
Perlica
The city is a home they rebuilt atop a disaster site. It is an inspiring symbol for the people of Hongshan.
Perlica
Wuling is also pursuing a special research project on something called Xiranite. Their aim is to overcome Ætherside disasters.
Perlica
Endfield already has plans to deploy an Automation-Core in Wuling City and set up our AIC Factory over there. This operation happens to work in favor of our plans.
Perlica
That's right. And Chen is quite familiar with Wuling City. We can count on her help for this operation.
Perlica
Since we're unsure how many cards Nefarith has on her hands, we should be as fully prepared as possible. Once you believe everything is set, we shall depart for our mission from Dijiang.
Yvonne
Perlica? Endmin? I was about to head out and look for you.
Perlica
There are still plenty of Active Blight patches in Valley IV. We would like to hear your opinions on dealing with this.
Yvonne
Ah... Yeah, Active Blight can be a real bummer! But we got a bigger problem.
Yvonne
I detected an Æther energy signal in the vicinities of Valley IV. It's weak, but there's no mistake about its existence.
Yvonne
The rift has just disappeared, so we're getting some ambient disruptions. We got plenty of noise in that signal. I need a reading that's cleaner and more precise.
Yvonne
Tata's onboard detection module happens to be the best tool for the job.
Perlica
Yvonne, the thing about Tata is that...
Yvonne
Well, it's alright if Tata isn't here. Don't worry, I've figured out an alternative!
Yvonne
Listen up. The Protocom Signal Towers should have Tata's scanning log. I can use that data to compare and filter out interference and noise.
Yvonne
However, I'll need your help connecting to the Signal Towers. The positions of the scanning will also affect the results. Hence, I'll need data from both towers.
Chen Qianyu
Yvonne! Tata is...
Yvonne
Aw, come on! Stop being so wishy-washy. Your Protocol Synchronizers can handle field data transfers just fine. Get going, chop chop!
Perlica
Lycia...
Yvonne
You know her? Is she an Endfielder?
Perlica
She was. Now, she's just ... an old acquaintance.
Chen Qianyu
That means she's an ex-Endfielder? Just a single glance and I can definitely tell she's a master with the blade. I really hope I can spar with her.
C
Crowe
Endministrator! I just received a report. Are you at the Originium Power Plant?
Yvonne
Professor Crowe? The Power Plant is a total mess! Are you alright?
C
Crowe
I managed to find safe places for everyone, but these Landbreakers just won't quit. The Vouivre leading them is a giant, bigger than the gate itself. The patrolling crew mates sounded the alarm when they saw him from afar.
C
Crowe
But the LBs didn't make it inside... Someone stopped them. That big fella also ran for his life.
Perlica
Æther energy signal... Could it be Rhodagn?
Yvonne
Why did the signal disappear...? I gotta run back to my lab and analyze this data. See you later, guys. Call me if you need help!
C
Crowe
Ah, that little girl... Well, I gotta check on the wounded. Thank you for lending us your support, Endmin.
Perlica
Yes. We once worked as a team.
Perlica
Lycia is pursuing her own hunt. She regards Æther events as tracks left by her prey.
Perlica
She left Endfield and has since operated solo, keeping communication with others to a minimum.
Perlica
...Because she intends to keep a promise.
Perlica
A promise that you personally made with her.
Chen Qianyu
Hmm... So she just popped out of nowhere because of the Æther activity, right? Her hunt sounds like a real hassle.
Fiona the Comms Officer
Supervisor Perlica, we have an emergency call. Code U3.
Fiona the Comms Officer
The three major factions of the Civilization Band are calling. They've received news of the Endmin's awakening.
Perlica
Understood. Get Dijiang prepped and ready. We'll head back ASAP.
Chen Qianyu
Finally! Valley IV got really messed up. About time someone called to show their concern.
Perlica
Endmin, let's head back to Dijiang.
Perlica
Don't worry. This is just part of the procedure... And this time, I'll be standing right by your side.
Perlica
......
Perlica
Yvonne, we've connected to the Signal Tower.
Yvonne
I'm on it. Synchronizing timestamps and resetting the signal codes... This will take a while. I'll need you to maintain the connection for a bit.
Perlica
Back then, the Blight and Landbreakers showed up here. If we'd failed to stop the creeping Blight, it would have blocked our access and support to the other areas.
Chen Qianyu
Tata almost shut down here. Thank goodness you helped out on time. We wouldn't have made it to the Power Plateau otherwise.
Yvonne
And it's all because Andre messed up with the... Tsk. I'll let it go. That old boy owes me a lot of lunches.
Yvonne
I know. I'm just ... ugh. Fine. You're right.
Yvonne
The next step is to connect to the Signal Tower at the Origin Lodespring. Really appreciate your field work out there.
R
Royle
Ah! You're back! Wonderful. I never had the chance to properly express my gratitude. Thank you for saving my friends!
Chen Qianyu
It's only been a short while. You sure you don't need more R&R?
R
Royle
I'm okay for now. The shockwaves and Aggeloi made a royal mess of the Origin Lodespring... We gotta fix the infrastructure, and clear the roads for the supply trucks at the very least.
R
Royle
Thanks to you neutralizing the local Blight, we were able to jump right into rebuilding! I've lived here for ages, but I've never seen anyone wipe out the Blight like that!
Chen Qianyu
Ah, yeah...
R
Royle
Uh... In any case, such advanced tech wouldn't reach mass production any time soon. I just hope the UWST can strengthen its partnership with you, Endfielders.
R
Royle
Once again, thank you for everything you've done for us! I gotta run and check on a few other places. Feel free and do your thing.
R
Royle
Everyone's real curious on how you pulled that off. Having tech like yours would make our survey and SAR work a lot easier.