Palia A Century in the Making quest started when I spotted some glowing dirt that turned out to contain the most disgusting package I’ve ever encountered, but helping Reth figure out his ancient cooking disaster made for one of the more entertaining storylines in the game.
Have you noticed weird shimmering patches of dirt while wandering around Palia? Those aren’t just random environmental details – they’re hiding Reth’s forgotten culinary experiments. Maybe you’re coming from crafting adventures like Brick by Brick, and you’re ready for something completely different. Now this quest is pretty much the same as other discovery quests, such as Trapped in Time, but obviously, this has a different story and very different outcomes.
This whole questline revolves around Reth’s attempts to master traditional egg preservation techniques that have been driving him mad for ages. I have covered everything regarding this quest, so let’s jump in.
What’s A Century in the Making Quest Actually About?
Reth’s been trying to crack the secret of making proper Century Eggs, which involves burying ingredients for extended periods. The problem is, he’s scattered his experiments all over Palia and completely forgotten where he put them.
Your job is basically playing archaeological cleanup crew for Reth’s cooking disasters. The quest splits into two parts, each involving different buried packages that reveal his progress (or lack thereof) with this ancient preservation method.
It’s a nice break from the heavier storylines and gives you insight into why Reth’s always experimenting with weird food combinations at the inn.
Starting Requirements
This quest kicks off naturally through exploration, so there aren’t strict prerequisites:
- Wandering around Kilima Valley regularly
- Spotting unusual dirt formations that look different from normal ground
- Tolerance for revolting smells (seriously, that first package is nasty)
- Basic friendship with Reth helps with dialogue options
How to Complete A Century in the Making Palia Quest
Here’s how to help Reth recover his buried food experiments and master his century-old recipe.
Part 1: The Disgusting Discovery
Your adventure begins when you stumble across an unusual dirt mound that’s giving off a suspicious glow.
Finding the first experiment:
- Head towards the path leading to Bahari Bay
- Instead of crossing the main bridge, explore underneath it
- Look for soil that seems different – it’ll have a noticeable shimmer
- Interact with the glowing dirt patch to uncover a wrapped package
When you open this package, you’ll discover something that smells absolutely horrific. Whatever Reth buried here has definitely gone off in ways that weren’t intended.
Finding the rightful owner of this rotten mess isn’t particularly difficult if you know where to look. Obviously, this rotten mess belongs to someone, and you’ll need to figure out who. If you’re feeling a bit stuck, have a chat with Ashura at the inn, who’ll gladly point you in the right direction.
The mysterious Reth (our likely culprit) tends to follow quite a predictable schedule throughout the day. You can typically find him munching away at the inn during standard meal times.
When you finally track down Reth, his reaction is pretty amusing. He’ll explain his Century Egg project and admit this particular experiment didn’t go according to plan.
Part 1 completion rewards:
- Lettuce soup from Reth (probably to wash the taste out)
- 5 Renown points for your trouble
Part 2: The Successful Experiment
Reth’s got more buried experiments scattered around, and the second one is significantly more promising.
Locating the second package:
- Travel to Bahari Bay and find the old lighthouse area
- Look for the water geyser near the lighthouse base
- Another glowing dirt patch will be nearby
- This package contains something much more egg-like and less revolting
This discovery is far more encouraging – whatever preservation technique Reth used here actually worked properly.
Return the Egg and Wait
Bring this successful experiment back to Reth, who’ll be thrilled that at least one of his attempts worked out. Reth will examine the preserved egg and take samples for his recipe development, then he’ll promise to share the results once he’s perfected the technique.
You’ll need to check your mailbox after waiting a full day in-game for his follow-up communication, and his letter confirms he’s managed to recreate the dish successfully and made it available at the inn.
Part 2 completion rewards:
- Your own Century Egg sample to try
- Another 5 Renown points
- Permanent access to buy Century Eggs at the inn for 200 gold each
What This Quest Unlocks
Beyond the immediate rewards, completing this storyline opens up some nice long-term benefits.
Permanent additions:
- The Century Egg dish is available for purchase at the inn
- Each egg provides 150 Focus when consumed
- Additional lore about traditional preservation methods
- Deeper appreciation for Reth’s experimental cooking style
The quest also hints that there might be more culinary mysteries to discover as the game continues to develop.
A Century in the Making – FAQs
How do I spot the special dirt patches?
They have a noticeable shimmer or glow effect that makes them stand out from regular dirt areas.
Where exactly is the first buried package?
Under the main bridge that connects Kilima Valley to Bahari Bay, explore the area beneath the bridge structure.
What about the second package location?
Near the old lighthouse in Bahari Bay, specifically around the geyser area on the lighthouse’s eastern side.
How long before Reth sends the completion letter?
Wait one full day in-game time before checking your mailbox for his message.
Are Century Eggs worth buying regularly?
At 200 gold each for 150 Focus, they’re decent value if you need Focus boosts for activities.
Final Thoughts
Palia A Century in the Making quest perfectly captures the game’s blend of exploration, character development, and gentle humour. Reth’s reactions to his cooking disasters are genuinely entertaining, and the quest gives nice insight into traditional preservation techniques.
Finding those glowing dirt patches, dealing with Reth’s experimental cooking gone wrong, and eventually helping him succeed – it’s a satisfying progression that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The rewards are practical too, giving you both immediate benefits and access to a useful Focus-boosting food item that becomes available permanently.
Adam is a gaming guides writer at GamersPlan. His love for gaming has led to become a writer to show off his years of expertise in RPG and Action games. He has used almost all of the consoles, from NES to PlayStation 5. There is no console that he has not played on. Some of his favorite games include Red Dead Redemption 2, GTA V, and Baldur's Gate 3.