Valley of the Croen

"Valley of the Croen" by Lee Tarbell is a science fiction story that starts with Carl Keele, a miner, getting pulled into a risky quest after meeting a strange cross-eyed man who has a golden statue that might have secret powers. The story happens in Korea, where Keele and others go on a dangerous trip because they are drawn to the idea of finding lost riches and a mysterious society. Early in the story, Keele is both interested and doubtful when he comes across Jake Barto, the big, cross-eyed man, who shows him the golden statue that is supposedly connected to scary events in a hidden valley. As they travel further into unknown lands, Keele begins to distrust Barto but also becomes fascinated by a puzzling creature who cautions him about coming danger, setting the stage for an exciting adventure that includes possible betrayal, beautiful scenery, and powerful forces that could harm them.