The Trials of Rosalinda

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<<set $using to false>><<set $casting to false>> <<initbody>> <<inititems>> <<initinventory>> <<initspells>> <<initrooms>> <<initobjects>> <<if Config.debug>> <</if>>

<<if tags().includes("nosaves") != true>>\ <div id = "bottombar">\ <div class = "body-wrapper">\ <div class = "body-box"><<bodybutton>></div>\ <div class = "body-box-small"><<attachedpartsbutton>></div>\ <div class = "body-box"><<skullbutton>></div>\ <div class = "body-box"><<larmbutton>></div>\ <div class = "body-box"><<rarmbutton>></div>\ <div class = "body-box"><<piecrustbutton>></div>\ <div class = "ui-wrapper">\ <<invbutton>>\ <div class = "body-box-small"><<if $using>><<button "Cancel using" $return>><<unset $using>><</button>><<elseif $casting>><<button "Cancel casting" $return>><<unset $casting>><</button>><</if>></div>\ <div class = "ui-box"><<button "⚙️ Menu" "Menu">><</button>></div>\ <div class = "saveicon"><<button "Saves">><<script>>UI.saves()<</script>><</button>></div>\ </div>\ </div>\ </div>\ <<elseif tags().includes("inventory")>>\ <div id = "bottombar">\ <div class = "closeinv"><<button "Close Inventory">><<unset $combining>><<goto $return>><</button>></div> </div>\ <</if>>\

<<widget "bodybutton">>\ <<if $bodyav && not $hidebody>>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<if $bodyparts.length == 4>>\ <<disable>><<button "Rosalinda (<<in \"body\">>$bodyloc)">><</button>><</disable>> <<else>>\ <<disable>><<button "Most of Rosalinda (<<in \"body\">>$bodyloc)">><</button>><</disable>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $bodyparts.length == 4>>\ <<button "Rosalinda (<<in \"body\">>$bodyloc)" $bodyloc>><<set $activepart to "body">><<unset $casting, $using>><</button>> <<else>>\ <<button "Most of Rosalinda (<<in \"body\">>$bodyloc)" $bodyloc>><<set $activepart to "body">><<unset $casting, $using>><</button>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "attachedpartsbutton">>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && passage() == "Courtroom" && hasVisited("Open Courtroom Door")>>\ <<button "View attached parts">><<makepopuptext "Attached parts" "There was no time to think about that. Rosalinda was afraid she would get disassembled for good if she didn’t reach Tekla soon.">><</button>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && passage() == "Courtroom">> <<button "View attached parts">><<makepopuptext "Attached parts" "Rosalinda wondered if she could send one of her arms away to find help. Where would it go, anyway? She must have appeared deep in thought, causing Lydia to warn her: “Don’t try anything, creature. Or we won’t hesitate to put you out of your misery.”">><</button>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.length > 1 && $partsbutton && not $hiderosalinda && passage() != "In the Crowded Carriage">>\ <<button "View attached parts">><<makepopuppass "Attached parts" "View parts">><</button>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "larmbutton">>\ <<if $larmav && not $hidelarm>>\ <<if $activepart == "larm">>\ <<disable>><<button "Rosalinda’s left arm (<<in \"larm\">>$larmloc)">><</button>><</disable>> <<else>>\ <<button "Rosalinda’s left arm (<<in \"larm\">>$larmloc)" $larmloc>><<set $activepart to "larm">><<unset $casting, $using>><</button>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "rarmbutton">>\ <<if $rarmav && not $hiderarm>>\ <<if $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<disable>><<button "Rosalinda’s right arm (<<in \"rarm\">>$rarmloc)">><</button>><</disable>> <<else>>\ <<button "Rosalinda’s right arm (<<in \"rarm\">>$rarmloc)" $rarmloc>><<set $activepart to "rarm">><<unset $casting, $using>><</button>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "skullbutton">>\ <<if $constructcontrolled>>\ <<if $activepart == "construct">>\ <<disable>><<button "Armour Construct (<<if $plate1pressed>>On a Pressure Plate<<else>>in Chamber Of Trials<</if>>)">><</button>><</disable>> <<elseif $plate1pressed>>\ <<button "Armour Construct (On a Pressure Plate)" "On a Pressure Plate">><<set $activepart to "construct">><<unset $casting, $using>><</button>> <<else>>\ <<button "Armour Construct (in Chamber Of Trials)" "Chamber Of Trials">><<set $activepart to "construct">><<unset $casting, $using>><</button>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $skullav && not $hideskull>>\ <<if $activepart == "skull">>\ <<disable>><<button "Rosalinda’s skull (<<in \"skull\">>$skullloc)">><</button>><</disable>> <<else>>\ <<button "Rosalinda’s skull (<<in \"skull\">>$skullloc)" $skullloc>><<set $activepart to "skull">><<unset $casting, $using>><</button>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "piecrustbutton">>\ <<if $piecrustav && not $hidepiecrust>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<disable>><<button "$piecrustdisplayname (<<in \"piecrust\">>$piecrustloc)">><</button>><</disable>> <<else>>\ <<button "$piecrustdisplayname (<<in \"piecrust\">>$piecrustloc)" $piecrustloc>><<set $activepart to "piecrust">><<unset $using>><<if $piecrustloc == "Evidence Room" && hasVisited("Evidence Room Intro") != true>><<goto "Evidence Room Intro">><</if>><</button>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "invbutton">>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <div class = "ui-box"><<button "Inventory">><<goto "Inventory">><</button>></div>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">>\ <div class = "ui-box"><<button "Item: <<=setup[$itemlarm].name>>">><<if $itemlarm != "none">><<goto "itemlarm">><</if>><</button>></div>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>\ <div class = "ui-box"><<button "Item: <<=setup[$itemrarm].name>>">><<if $itemrarm != "none">><<goto "itemrarm">><</if>><</button>></div>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("Library Collapses")>>\ <div class = "ui-box"><<button "Spells">><<goto "itempiecrust">><</button>></div>\ <<elseif hasVisited("Piecrust remembers a spell")>>\ <div class = "ui-box"><<button "Item: <<=setup[$itempiecrust].name>> & Spells">><<goto "itempiecrust">><</button>></div>\ <<else>>\ <div class = "ui-box"><<button "Item: <<=setup[$itempiecrust].name>> ">><<goto "itempiecrust">><</button>></div>\ <</if>>\ <<else>><div class = "body-box"></div>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "partfullname">>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>Rosalinda<<elseif $activepart == "larm">>Rosalinda’s left arm<<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>Rosalinda’s right arm<<elseif $activepart == "skull">>Rosalinda’s skull<<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust<</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "in">>\ <<if $rooms[State.variables[$args[0]+"loc"]].in>>in <</if>>\ <</widget>>\

<<widget "initbody">> <<set $bodyparts to ["body", "skull", "larm", "rarm"]>> <<set $activepart to "body">> <<set $bodyav to true>> <<set $larmav to false>> <<set $rarmav to false>> <<set $skullav to false>> <<set $piecrustav to false>> <<set $bodyloc to "Cemetery Chapel">> <<set $skullloc to "onbody">> <<set $larmloc to "onbody">> <<set $rarmloc to "onbody">> <<set $piecrustloc to "Among the Brambles">> <<set $piecrustdisplayname to "Piecrust">> <</widget>>

<<if $bodyloc == passage() && $activepart != "body">>\ <<if $bodyparts.contains("larm") && $bodyparts.contains("rarm") && $bodyparts.contains("skull")>>Rosalinda<<else>>Most of Rosalinda<</if>> was nearby.<<if $activepart == "skull">><<attach "skull" "skull" "Connect to body">><<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<attach "larm" "left arm" "Connect to body">><<elseif $activepart == "rarm">><<attach "rarm" "right arm" "Connect to body">><</if>> <</if>>\ <<if $skullloc == passage() && $activepart != "skull">>\ Rosalinda’s skull was nearby.<<if $activepart == "body">><<attach "skull" "skull" "Attach">><</if>><<pickpart "skull" "skull">> <</if>>\ <<if $larmloc == passage() && $activepart != "larm">>\ Rosalinda’s left arm was nearby.<<if $activepart == "body">><<attach "larm" "left arm" "Attach">><</if>><<pickpart "leftarm" "larm">> <</if>>\ <<if $rarmloc == passage() && $activepart != "rarm">>\ Rosalinda’s right arm was nearby.<<if $activepart == "body">><<attach "rarm" "right arm" "Attach">><</if>><<pickpart "rightarm" "rarm">> <</if>>\ <<if $piecrustloc == passage() && $activepart != "piecrust" && $piecrustav || $location == "Chamber Of Trials" && $piecrustloc == "On a Pressure Plate">>\ <<link "Piecrust" "Talk To Piecrust">><</link>> was nearby. <</if>>\ <<if $attachmessage>>\ $attachmessage <</if>>\

<<widget "attach">>\ <<if passage() == "Courtroom">>\ <<link $args[2]>><<makepopuptext "" "“If I attach my arm now, they’ll figure out my plan, and I won’t be able to detach it again!” thought Rosalinda.">><</link>> <<elseif $args[0] == "skull" && passage() == "Small Clearing" && hasVisited("Ruffians Leave") != true>>\ <<link $args[2]>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda couldn’t approach her skull without being noticed by the ruffians – and she was certain they would attack her on sight.">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link $args[2] $return>>\ <<if $activepart != "body">><<set $activepart to "body">><</if>>\ <<set $attachmessage to "Rosalinda attached her " + $args[1] + ".">>\ <<run $bodyparts.push($args[0])>>\ <<set State.variables[$args[0]+"av"] to false>> <<set State.variables[$args[0]+"loc"] to "onbody">>\ <<if $args[0] != "skull" && State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] != "none">> <<set $dropped to State.variables["item"+ $args[0]]>> <<set $dropped to setup[$dropped].name>> <<run $inventory.push(State.variables["item"+ $args[0]])>> <<set State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] to setup.none.name>> <<set $attachmessage to "Rosalinda attached her " + $args[1] + " and put the $dropped in her inventory.">> <</if>> <</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "refreshpartsview">> <<run Dialog.close()>> <<if $bodyparts.length > 1>> <<makepopuppass "Attached parts" "View parts">> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "detach">>\ <<if $location == "Inside the Coffin" && $args[0] != "rarm">>\DetachThere wasn’t enough room. <<elseif $location == "On the Roof of the Coach" && $args[0] == "skull">>\DetachRosalinda didn’t want her skull to roll off the roof. <<elseif $location == "At the Bottom of the Lake">>\Detach Rosalinda didn’t want her body parts to be swept away by currents. <<else>>\ <<link "Detach">> <<set $attachmessage to "Rosalinda detached her " + $args[1] + "!">>\ <<set State.variables[$args[0]+"av"] to true>> <<run $bodyparts.delete($args[0])>> <<set State.variables[$args[0]+"loc"] to passage()>> <<if $inventory.includes("largestone") && $args[0] != "skull">><<run $inventory.delete("largestone")>><<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push("largestone")>> <<set $attachmessage to $attachmessage + " Without both arms, she could no longer hold the large stone, which dropped onto the ground with a thud.">> <</if>> <<refreshpartsview>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "pickpart">>\ <<if passage() == "Inside the Coffin" || passage() == "Courtroom" || passage() == "Small Clearing" && hasVisited("Ruffians Leave") != true>> <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<if $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Pick up" $return>>\ <<if State.variables["item"+ $args[1]] == "club">> <<set State.variables[$args[1]+"av"] to false>>\ <<set State.variables[$args[1]+"loc"] to "inventory">>\ <<set $attachmessage to "Rosalinda picked up her " + setup[$args[0]].name + " together with the club it was holding. “This could be useful!” she thought.">>\ <<if $args[1] == "larm">> <<run $inventory.push("leftarmwithclub")>> <<else>> <<run $inventory.push("rightarmwithclub")>> <</if>> <<elseif State.variables["item"+ $args[1]] == "fieryclub">> <<set State.variables[$args[1]+"av"] to false>>\ <<set State.variables[$args[1]+"loc"] to "inventory">>\ <<set $attachmessage to "Rosalinda picked up her " + setup[$args[0]].name + " together with the burning club it was holding. “Looks dangerous, but it may be useful!” she thought.">>\ <<if $args[1] == "larm">> <<run $inventory.push("leftarmwithfieryclub")>> <<else>> <<run $inventory.push("rightarmwithfieryclub")>> <</if>> <<else>> <<run $inventory.push($args[0])>>\ <<set $attachmessage to "Rosalinda picked up her " + setup[$args[0]].name + " and added it to her inventory.">>\ <<set State.variables[$args[1]+"av"] to false>>\ <<set State.variables[$args[1]+"loc"] to "inventory">>\ <<if $args[1] != "skull" && State.variables["item"+ $args[1]] != "none">> <<set $dropped to State.variables["item"+ $args[1]]>> <<set $dropped to setup[$dropped].name>> <<run $inventory.push(State.variables["item"+ $args[1]])>> <<set State.variables["item"+ $args[1]] to setup.none.name>> <<set $attachmessage to "Rosalinda picked up her " + setup[$args[0]].name + " and added it to her backpack, together with the $dropped it was holding.">> <</if>> <</if>> <</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\

<<widget "unsetmessage">> <<unset $printedmessage, $usemessage, $itemsize, $attachmessage>> <</widget>> <<widget "makepopuppass">>\ <<run Dialog.setup($args[0])>>\ <<run Dialog.wiki(Story.get($args[1]).processText())>>\ <<run Dialog.open()>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "makepopuptext">>\ <<run Dialog.setup($args[0])>>\ <<run Dialog.wiki($args[1])>>\ <<run Dialog.open()>>\ <</widget>>\

<<if $skullloc == "onbody">>Skull<<detach "skull" "skull">><</if>>\ <<if $larmloc == "onbody">>Left arm<<detach "larm" "left arm">><</if>>\ <<if $rarmloc == "onbody">>Right arm<<detach "rarm" "right arm">><</if>>\

<<widget "moveto">> <<if State.variables.rooms[$location].items.includes("fieryclub")>>\ <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.delete("fieryclub")>>\ <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push("club")>>\ <<makepopuptext "" "The burning club started getting dimmer. Finally, the fire flickered and went out.">> <</if>> <<set State.variables[$activepart+"loc"] to $args[0]>> <<unset $casting, $using>> <<goto $args[0]>> <<set $doautosave to true>> <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && $airbubble && $args[0] != "At the Bottom of the Lake" && $args[0] != "Chased by Catfish" && $args[0] != "Secret Passage">> <<unset $airbubble>> <<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust’s air bubble spell wore off.">> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "setlocation">>\ <<set $location to passage()>>\ <<if $doautosave>>\ <<run Save.autosave.save()>><<unset $doautosave>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "skullcantmove">>\ <<if $activepart == "skull">>Rosalinda’s skull couldn’t move around on its own.<</if>>\ <</widget>>\

<<specialdrops>>\ <<unset $using>>\ <<if $inventory.length > 0 && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>Rosalinda needed at least one arm to manipulate items. <</if>>\ <<for _i to 0; _i lt $inventory.length; _i++>>\ <<capture _i>>\ <<= setup[$inventory[_i]].name.toUpperFirst()>> <<= setup[$inventory[_i]].desc>><<drop>><<giveto>><<combinelink>><<use $inventory[_i]>><<separate>> <</capture>>\ <</for>>\ <<if $combining>>\ Select an item to combine with. <<link "Cancel combining items" "Inventory">><<unset $combining, $combine1, $combine2>><</link>><</if>>

<<widget "initrooms">> <<set $location to "Cemetery Chapel">> <<set $rooms to { "Cemetery Chapel": { name: "Cemetery Chapel", items: [], in: true}, "Inside the Coffin": { name: "Inside the Coffin", items: [], in: false}, "Willowbrook Cemetery": { name: "Willowbrook Cemetery", items: [], in: true}, "Among the Brambles": { name: "Among the Brambles", items: [], in: false}, "Prison Cell": { name: "Prison Cell", items: [], in: true}, "Evidence Room": { name: "Evidence Room", items: [], in: true}, "Mouse Hole": { name: "Mouse Hole", items: [], in: true}, "Citadel Corridor East": { name: "Citadel Corridor East", items: [], in: true}, "Citadel Corridor West": { name: "Citadel Corridor West", items: [], in: true}, "Kitchen": { name: "Kitchen", items: [], in: true}, "Courtroom": { name: "Courtroom", items: [], in: true}, "Inside the Coach": { name: "Inside the Coach", items: [], in: false}, "On the Roof of the Coach": { name: "On the Roof of the Coach", items: [], in: false}, "On Bella’s Back": { name: "On Bella’s Back", items: [], in: false}, "Overgrown Ravine": { name: "Overgrown Ravine", items: [], in: true}, "Small Clearing": { name: "Small Clearing", items: [], in: true}, "Near Crashed Coach": { name: "Near Crashed Coach", items: [], in: false}, "Inside the Tree Stump": { name: "Inside the Tree Stump", items: [], in: false}, "By the Lakeside": { name: "By the Lakeside", items: [], in: false}, "The Hollow Willow": { name: "The Hollow Willow", items: [], in: true}, "At the Bottom of the Lake": { name: "At the Bottom of the Lake", items: [], in: false}, "Chased by Catfish": { name: "Chased by Catfish", items: [], in: false}, "On the Forest Road": { name: "On the Forest Road", items: [], in: false}, "Ruined Courtyard": { name: "Ruined Courtyard", items: [], in: true}, "The Room in The Elephant": { name: "The Room in The Elephant", items: [], in: true}, "The Edge of the Pit": { name: "The Edge of the Pit", items: [], in: false}, "Stables": { name: "Stables", items: [], in: true}, "Lit Corridor": { name: "Lit Corridor", items: [], in: true}, "Storage Room": { name: "Storage Room", items: [], in: true}, "In the Belly of the Catfish": { name: "In the Belly of the Catfish", items: [], in: false}, "Columned Hall": { name: "Columned Hall", items: [], in: true}, "By the Standing Stones": { name: "By the Standing Stones", items: [], in: false}, "Descending Tunnel": { name: "Descending Tunnel", items: [], in: true}, "On the Ledge": { name: "Descending Tunnel", items: [], in: false}, "Dig Site": { name: "Dig Site", items: [], in: false}, "Side Room": { name: "Side Room", items: [], in: true}, "Aurelia’s Study": { name: "Aurelia’s Study", items: [], in: true}, "Old Well": { name: "Old Well", items: [], in: true}, "Low Tunnels": { name: "Low Tunnels", items: [], in: true}, "Chamber Of Trials": { name: "Chamber Of Trials", items: [], in: true}, "Secret Passage": { name: "Secret Passage", items: [], in: true}, "On a Pressure Plate": { name: "On a Pressure Plate", items: [], in: false}, "Ancient Library": { name: "Ancient Library", items: [], in: true}, "On a Bookshelf": { name: "On a Bookshelf", items: [], in: false}, "Collapsing Tunnel": { name: "Collapsing Tunnel", items: [], in: true}, "In the Crowded Carriage": { name: "In the Crowded Carriage", items: [], in: false}, }>> <</widget>>

<<widget "inititems">> <<set setup.none to {name: "none", size: 0, desc: "", descpie: "", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.leftarm to {name: "left arm", size: 1, desc: "Rosalinda’s left arm was now just a collection of bones joined together with magic, but it was still a part of her.", descpie: "", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.rightarm to {name: "right arm", size: 1, desc: "Rosalinda’s right arm. She could see a healed fracture on the radial bone; she vaguely remembered falling from a swing and breaking her arm as a child.", descpie: "", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.skull to {name: "skull", size: 1, desc: "Rosalinda’s skull. It was pretty handsome, for a skull, and even had all but one of its teeth.", descpie: "", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.shovel to {name: "shovel", size: 2, desc: "An old shovel.", descpie: "A scary giant shovel.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.hoodedcloak to {name: "hooded cloak", size: 2, desc: "A red cloak with a sun pattern and a hood. (being worn)", descpie: "", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.marble to {name: "marble", size: 0, desc: "A small marble, blue and white. Children play with these, and they always lose them, and the marbles end up in most bizarre places.", descpie: "A small marble, blue and white. Children play with these, and they always lose them, and the marbles end up in most bizarre places. That one looked like a pretty candy, but it was hard and inedible.", fail:["”I’d probably just lose it”, thought Piecrust."], }>> <<set setup.corn to {name: "corn", size: 0, desc: "A few dry kernels of corn.", descpie: "A few kernels of corn, still edible, but not appetising after a meal of a blackberry.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.courtroomkey to {name: "courtroom key", size: 0, desc: "A large and heavy key to the courtroom door.", descpie: "", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.club to {name: "club", size: 1, desc: "Norbert’s heavy wooden club.", descpie: "It was not a battle spell, but Piecrust could tell in the right hands it was just as dangerous.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.fieryclub to {name: "fiery club", size: 1, desc: "Norbert’s heavy wooden club. One end was on fire.", descpie: "Piecrust felt quite proud of himself. “Now, if that isn’t a magical weapon, I don’t know what is,” he thought.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.leftarmwithclub to {name: "left arm with club", size: 1, desc: "Rosalinda’s left arm holding a wooden club.", descpie: "Rosalinda’s left arm holding a wooden club.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.rightarmwithclub to {name: "right arm with club", size: 1, desc: "Rosalinda’s right arm holding a wooden club.", descpie: "Rosalinda’s right arm holding a wooden club.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.leftarmwithfieryclub to {name: "left arm with fiery club", size: 1, desc: "Rosalinda’s left arm holding a burning wooden club.", descpie: "Rosalinda’s left arm holding a burning wooden club.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.rightarmwithfieryclub to {name: "right arm with fiery club", size: 1, desc: "Rosalinda’s right arm holding a burning wooden club.", descpie: "Rosalinda’s right arm holding a burning wooden club.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.dreammoss to {name: "dream moss", size: 1, desc: "A clump of soft, emerald moss. Known for its soothing and soporific properties.", descpie: "A clump of soft, emerald moss. Known for its soothing and soporific properties.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.emptymug to {name: "empty mug", size: 1, desc: "An empty tin mug, cheap and made of very thin metal. Pest bent it so badly when he fall on top of it, the bottom cracked.", descpie: "A tin mug, bent, cracked, and empty, but still smelling of some suspicious liquid.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.lantern to {name: "lantern", size: 1, desc: "A cracked lantern from the coach. The flame was out.", descpie: "A cracked lantern from the coach. The flame was out.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.largestone to {name: "large stone", size: 2, desc: "A roughly hewn stone, big and very heavy.", descpie: "A roughly hewn stone, big and very heavy.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.sword to {name: "sword", size: 1, desc: "A one-handed sword. The high quality of its craftsmanship was evident even to Rosalinda, who knew very little about swords. There was a small sun etched onto the blade.", descpie: "A one-handed sword adorned with the symbol of Light’s Chosen “Swords,” thought Piecrust and shook his head, considering the superiority of magic.", fail:["“I should not be playing with this,” thought Rosalinda."], }>> <<set setup.blackcrystal to {name: "black crystal", size: 1, desc: "A black crystal octahedron the size of a fist.", descpie: "A black crystal octahedron the size of a fist. It wasn’t active – Piecrust believed the anti-magic aura only worked when the crystal was placed inside the golden cage. Still, it was a most fascinating object.", fail:["“I’d rather not try playing with this crystal at random,” thought Rosalinda. “It’s magical and possibly dangerous.”"], }>> <<set setup.whitecrystal to {name: "white crystal", size: 1, desc: "A white crystal octahedron roughly the size of Rosalinda’s skull. It used to power an ancient magic-boosting device, but lost its power once it was removed from its golden cage.", descpie: "A large white crystal octahedron. It used to power an ancient magic-boosting device. Now, removed from the golden cage, it was little more than a piece of rock. Piecrust could not sense any energy coming from it.", fail:["“It may still be dangerous,” thought Rosalinda. “What if I activate it by accident and blow something up? Or give Aurelia even more power? Best not to use it.”"], }>> <<set setup.smokedherring to {name: "smoked herring", size: 1, desc: "A large smoked herring.", descpie: "A smelly, mouth-watering herring. Piecrust took a nibble.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.bittertincture to {name: "bitter tincture", size: 1, desc: "A small vial of very bitter tincture.", descpie: "Piecrust could smell the liquid inside the bottle even through the cork, and it made him really nauseous.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.bitterherring to {name: "bitter herring", size: 1, desc: "A smoked herring laced with an extremely bitter tincture.", descpie: "At first, the herring smelled nice, but after a moment, one could feel a waft of stomach-churning bitterness.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.whip to {name: "whip", size: 1, desc: "Norbert’s long bullwhip.", descpie: "Norbert’s long bullwhip.", fail:["“I wish this could whip up a solution to our problems,” thought Rosalinda."], }>> <<set setup.whipwithrightarm to {name: "whip with right arm", size: 1, desc: "A makeshift grappling hook Rosalinda created by tying the end of Norbert’s whip to her right arm.", descpie: "A makeshift grappling hook Rosalinda created by tying the end of Norbert’s whip to her right arm.", fail:["“I wish this could whip up a solution to our problems,” though Rosalinda."], }>> <<set setup.whipwithleftarm to {name: "whip with left arm", size: 1, desc: "A makeshift grappling hook Rosalinda created by tying the end of Norbert’s whip to her left arm.", descpie: "A makeshift grappling hook Rosalinda created by tying the end of Norbert’s whip to her left arm.", fail:["“I wish this could whip up a solution to our problems,” though Rosalinda."], }>> <<set setup.pentagonalgem to {name: "pentagonal gem", size: 0, desc: "A small, red, pentagonal gem.", descpie: "A small, red, pentagonal gem. It looked a bit like a strawberry, but did not taste similar at all.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.shovel to {name: "shovel", size: 2, desc: "A solid, if a little chipped, metal shovel.", descpie: "A solid, if a little chipped, metal shovel.", fail:[], }>> <<set setup.cane to {name: "cane", size: 1, desc: "Councilman Philemon Figg’s cane with a gold handle. Very ornate and rather heavy.", descpie: "Councilman Philemon Figg’s cane with a gold handle.", fail:[], }>> <</widget>>\ <<widget "initinventory">> <<set $inventory to ["hoodedcloak"]>> <<set $itemlarm to "none">><<set $itemrarm to "none">><<set $itempiecrust to "none">> <<set setup.combinekeymessages to [{name: "leftarmclub", newitem: "leftarmwithclub", message: "Rosalinda gave the club to her left arm. “This should give me some extended reach!” she thought."}, {name: "rightarmclub", newitem: "rightarmwithclub", message: "Rosalinda gave the club to her right arm. “This should give me some extended reach!” she thought."}, {name: "leftarmfieryclub", newitem: "leftarmwithfieryclub", message: "Rosalinda gave the smouldering club to her left arm. “This should give me some extended reach!” she thought."}, {name: "rightarmfieryclub", newitem: "rightarmwithfieryclub", message: "Rosalinda gave the smouldering club to her right arm. “This should give me some extended reach!” she thought."}, {name: "smokedherringbittertincture", newitem: "bitterherring", message: "Rosalinda poured a few drops of the tincture into the smoked herring’s belly. She then shrugged and poured in all that was left in the vial."}, {name: "rightarmwhip", newitem: "whipwithrightarm", message: "Rosalinda tied the end of the whip around her right arm, creating a makeshift grappling hook of sorts."}, {name: "leftarmwhip", newitem: "whipwithleftarm", message: "Rosalinda tied the end of the whip around her left arm, creating a makeshift grappling hook of sorts."}]>> <<set setup.combinemessages to [{name: "mugbittertincture", message: "“Right now, I’m not planning to give this tincture to anyone that drinks from a mug, so I’d better not pour it into it. It may leak while I’m carrying the mug around, and I’ll lose it,” decided Rosalinda."}]>> <<set setup.combinefail to ["Rosalinda could not combine the two items.", "Rosalinda decided combining the two items wouldn’t help.", "The two items could not be combined with each other.", "It was no use, trying to combine the two items."]>> <<set setup.usekeymessages to ["greymousecorn", "amarblecorn", "catmarble", "courtroomdoorcourtroomkey", "KnightLeonleftarmwithclub", "KnightLeonrightarmwithclub", "KnightLeonleftarmwithfieryclub", "KnightLeonrightarmwithfieryclub", "tinmugdreammoss", "Osmundsword", "Osmund1sword", "Osmund1lantern", "monstrouscatfishlargestone", "monstrouscatfishsmokedherring", "monstrouscatfishbitterherring", "leverwhipwithleftarm", "leverwhipwithrightarm", "magiceyeemptymug", "magiceye1emptymug", "magiceyeleftarm", "magiceyerightarm", "ledgeleftarm", "ledgerightarm", "ledgeemptymug", "stonedoorpentagonalgem", "dirtshovel", "headlessconstructskull", "goldencage0blackcrystal", "Figgsbodyguardshovel", "Figgsbodyguardcane", "Aurelia1cane", "goldencage1blackcrystal", "CaptainLydia1sword", "constructshovel", "CaptainLydia1shovel", "Lydia3sword"]>> <<set setup.usemessages to [{name: "CaptainLydiacourtroomkey", message: "“This would be a very stupid thing to do,” thought Rosalinda"}, {name: "courtclerkcourtroomkey", message: "“Why would I give it back?” thought Rosalinda. “It’s my key to freedom!”"}, {name: "catcorn", message: "“Cats don’t eat corn!” thought Piecrust, realising his idea was silly. “Cats eat… let’s not think about that.”"}, {name: "greymousemarble", message: "“It ate my corn, so I have no reason to give the marble back!”"}, {name: "Tekla2club", message: "“I don’t want it, Miss Rosalinda!” said Tekla. “Sorry, but I – I can’t fight the Chosen. They are my friends!”"}, {name: "Albertclub", message: "“Oh, Norb gave you this?” asked Albert. “Looks like he really likes you. No, I don’t want it. To fight the Chosen, I’d have to get to the roof, and I’m old and have trouble keeping my balance. You do it, skeleton lady.”"}, {name: "Albertfieryclub", message: "“What on earth did you do to Norbert’s club?” gasped Albert. “Never mind. Just don’t wave it around! Keep it away from my book!”"}, {name: "Tekla2fieryclub", message: "“This looks dangerous, Miss Rosalinda,” said Tekla. “Is this part of some plan? Just be careful, please.”"}, {name: "Piecrustclub", message: "“Seriously?” asked Piecrust. “Do I look like I could swing this?”"}, {name: "KnightLeonclub", message: "Rosalinda grasped the club. As much as she didn’t want to fight, she was ready to protect her friends. But her weapon was just a little too short to reach Leon, even when she balanced on the very edge of the coach."}, {name: "KnightLeonfieryclub", message: "Rosalinda swung the burning club, thinking maybe she could spook the knight’s horse, but she couldn’t reach that far, and was afraid if she threw the club, she would hit the coach horses instead."}, {name: "treestumpdreammoss", message: "“Why would I put it back inside the stump?” thought Rosalinda. “It could be very useful.”"}, {name: "Pestdreammoss", message: "“Putting the ruffians to sleep could help me, but I can’t just approach and tell them to eat a clump of moss,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "Pes0tdreammoss", message: "“Putting the ruffians to sleep could help me, but I can’t just approach and tell them to eat a clump of moss,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "Cragdreammoss", message: "“Putting the ruffians to sleep could help me, but I can’t just approach and tell them to eat a clump of moss,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "Pestdreammoss", message: "“Putting the ruffians to sleep could help me, but I can’t just approach and tell them to eat a clump of moss,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "Osmunddreammoss", message: "“This wouldn’t do any good!” thought Rosalinda. “Well, it could make Osmund relax and forget about this dire situation, but that wouldn’t really solve the problem."}, {name: "Pestsword", message: "Rosalinda didn’t want to hurt anyone unless she was forced to; besides, she had no fighting experience and was afraid the ruffians would overpower her."}, {name: "Cragsword", message: "Rosalinda didn’t want to hurt anyone unless she was forced to; besides, she had no fighting experience and was afraid the ruffians would overpower her."}, {name: "Osmund0sword", message: "“I could cut the ropes and free Osmund,” thought Rosalinda, “but not with the thugs looking!”"}, {name: "Darktreeslantern", message: "The lantern was out. Thankfully, Rosalinda could see quite well in the dark, even without it."}, {name: "thickundergrowthlantern", message: "The lantern was out. Thankfully, Rosalinda could see quite well in the dark, even without it."}, {name: "monstrouscatfishsword", message: "Rosalinda poked at the monster with a sword, but the blade just slid off the creature’s scales. The catfish did not react."}, {name: "monstrouscatfishbittertincture", message: "The tincture would probably make the catfish spit out everything it swallowed,” realised Rosalinda. “But how to convince the fish to drink it?”"}, {name: "leverleftarm", message: "For a moment, Rosalinda considered tossing her arm across the chasm, for it to activate the lever. But what if her throw fell short? She decided it was too risky."}, {name: "leverrightarm", message: "For a moment, Rosalinda considered tossing her arm across the chasm, for it to activate the lever. But what if her throw fell short? She decided it was too risky."}, {name: "leverwhip", message: "Rosalinda took aim and clumsily swung the whip, aiming at the lever. The end of the whip almost reached it, but didn’t wrap around it. She tried a few more times, but without success. “Oh, I’m bad at this,” she thought with frustration. “I need to find a way of grabbing the lever with the whip, but this isn’t it.”"}, {name: "Albert0whip", message: "Rosalinda would not hit Albert with the whip."}, {name: "Albert1whip", message: "Rosalinda would not hit Albert with the whip."}, {name: "Norbert0whip", message: "Rosalinda would not hit Norbert with the whip."}, {name: "Osmund2whip", message: "Rosalinda would not hit Osmund with the whip."}, {name: "shaftwhip", message: "Rosalinda tried to lower the whip down the shaft, but it was far too short to reach the bottom."}, {name: "shaftwhipwithleftarm", message: "Rosalinda tried to lower the whip down the shaft, but it was far too short to reach the bottom."}, {name: "shaftwhipwithrightarm", message: "Rosalinda tried to lower the whip down the shaft, but it was far too short to reach the bottom."}, {name: "whitehorseswhip", message: "Rosalinda saw no reason to startle the tired horses. “Let them sleep,” she thought."}, {name: "construct0shovel", message: "Rosalinda swung the shovel as hard as she could, hitting the construct’s chest. The recoil nearly made her drop the shovel, but the attack made absolutely no impression on the construct. It raised its fists, ready to crush Rosalinda, who barely managed to jump back in time."}, {name: "construct0sword", message: "Rosalinda swung the sword, but the blade bounced off the construct’s metal body. The recoil nearly made her drop the weapon. She stumbled back, barely avoiding the automaton’s fist."}, {name: "constructsremainsskull", message: "“It’s too damaged,” thought Rosalinda. “And I feel better with my skull on top of my own body, anyway.”"}, {name: "pileofrocksshovel", message: "“The passage must stay blocked so that Aurelia doesn’t catch wind of our plan,” thought Rosalinda. “And it’s not like I could remove all those rocks with a shovel, anyway.”"}, {name: "Figgsbodyguardwhip", message: "Rosalinda smacked the bodyguard with the whip in a desperate attempt at helping Lydia. The bodyguard didn’t even notice."}, {name: "horneddemonwhip", message: "Rosalinda tried to strike the demon, but it easily caught the end of the whip, nearly pulling it out of Rosalinda’s grip."}, {name: "horneddemoncane", message: "Rosalinda eyed the demon, but saw no opening that would let her attack with the cane. And she didn’t think she could hurt the massive monster with her improvised weapon, anyway."}, {name: "horneddemoncane", message: "Rosalinda eyed the demon, but saw no opening that would let her attack with the shovel. And she didn’t think she could hurt the massive monster with her improvised weapon, anyway."}, {name: "Aurelia1cane", message: "Desperate to stop her, Rosalinda tried to attack the sorceress, but the cane bounced off an invisible barrier. Aurelia didn’t even notice."}, {name: "Aurelia1shovel", message: "Desperate to stop her, Rosalinda tried to attack the sorceress, but the shovel bounced off an invisible barrier. Aurelia didn’t even notice."}, {name: "Aurelia1whip", message: "Desperate to stop her, Rosalinda tried to attack the sorceress, but the whip slid off an invisible barrier. Aurelia didn’t even notice."}, {name: "Aurelia1whitecrystal", message: "“I absolutely must not give it to Aurelia!” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "Aurelia1blackcrystal", message: "“Giving it to Aurelia will not work. It has to be placed in the golden cage!” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "Aurelia0shovel", message: "Aurelia was alert and ready to cast combat spells. Sneaking up on her with the shovel was impossible."}, {name: "Aurelia0cane", message: "Aurelia was alert and ready to cast combat spells. Sneaking up on her with the cane was impossible."}, {name: "magiceyewhip", message: "Rosalinda tried to hit the magic eye with the whip, but could not aim well enough."}, {name: "magiceyewhipwithleftarm", message: "Rosalinda swung the whip. Her arm touched the magic eye with its fingertips, but was was zapped by a blue magical lightning, which pushed it back. “I have to disable it without touching it,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "magiceyewhipwithrightarm", message: "Rosalinda swung the whip. Her arm touched the magic eye with its fingertips, but was was zapped by a blue magical lightning, which pushed it back. “I have to disable it without touching it,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "ledgewhipwithrightarm", message: "Rosalinda swung the whip and the arm grabbed the edge of the ledge, but could not pull itself up with the loose whip encumbering it."}, {name: "ledgewhipwithleftarm", message: "Rosalinda swung the whip and the arm grabbed the edge of the ledge, but could not pull itself up with the loose whip encumbering it."}, {name: "deeplakeemptymug", message: "The mug was cracked at the bottom and could no longer hold liquids."}, {name: "boundbanditssword", message: "“Cutting their ties would only cause trouble,” decided Rosalinda."}, {name: "drawbridgewhip", message: "“Even if I wrap the whip around some part of the bridge, I won’t be able to move the whole thing just like that,” decided Rosalinda."}, {name: "drawbridgewhipwithleftarm", message: "“I should target the activating mechanism, not the bridge itself,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "drawbridgewhipwithrightarm", message: "“I should target the activating mechanism, not the bridge itself,” thought Rosalinda."}, {name: "Osmundlantern", message: "Osmund could probably make use of the lantern – but not while he was bound with ropes."}]>> <<set setup.usefail to ["It didn’t seem like a good idea.", "There was no use in doing that.", "<<partfullname>> decided it wouldn’t do any good."]>> <</widget>>

<<widget "drop">>\ <<if $combining>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ Drop\ <<elseif $location == "At the Bottom of the Lake">>\ <<if $inventory[_i] == "largestone">>\ <<link "Drop">><<run $inventory.delete("largestone")>><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda dropped the heavy stone and immediately started to float towards the surface. A moment later, she was back on the shore of the lake.">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Drop">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda didn’t want to leave the item at the bottom of the lake.">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "hoodedcloak">>\ <<if $bodyloc == "Cemetery Chapel">>\ <<link "Drop">><<makepopuptext "" "There was no time to change clothes.">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Drop">><<makepopuptext "" "There wasn’t enough space inside the coffin for Rosalinda to take off her cloak.">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "leftarm" || $inventory[_i] == "rightarm" || $inventory[_i] == "skull" || $inventory[_i] == "leftarmwithclub" || $inventory[_i] == "rightarmwithclub" || $inventory[_i] == "leftarmwithfieryclub" || $inventory[_i] == "rightarmwithfieryclub">>\ <<link "Drop" "Inventory">><<dropbodypart>><</link>>\ <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "fieryclub" && $bodyloc != "On the Roof of the Coach">>\ <<link "Drop">><<makepopuptext "" "“I shouldn’t drop that here,” thought Rosalinda. “The inside of the coach could catch on fire.”">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Drop" "Inventory">><<set $dropped to setup[$inventory[_i]].name>><<set $itemmanipulation to "dropped the $dropped!">><<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push($inventory[_i])>><<run $inventory.deleteAt(_i)>><<if $inventory.length == 0>><<goto $return>><</if>><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "dropbodypart">> <<if $inventory[_i] == "leftarm">> <<set $larmav to true>> <<set $larmloc to $location>> <<set $itemmanipulation to "took out her left arm.">> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "leftarmwithclub">> <<set $larmav to true>> <<set $larmloc to $location>> <<set $itemlarm to "club">> <<set $itemmanipulation to "took out her left arm with the club.">> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "leftarmwithfieryclub">> <<set $larmav to true>> <<set $larmloc to $location>> <<set $itemlarm to "fieryclub">> <<set $itemmanipulation to "took out her left arm with the burning club.">> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "rightarm">> <<set $rarmav to true>> <<set $rarmloc to $location>> <<set $itemmanipulation to "took out her right arm.">> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "rightarmwithclub">> <<set $rarmav to true>> <<set $rarmloc to $location>> <<set $itemrarm to "club">> <<set $itemmanipulation to "took out her right arm with the club.">> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "rightarmwithfieryclub">> <<set $rarmav to true>> <<set $rarmloc to $location>> <<set $itemrarm to "fieryclub">> <<set $itemmanipulation to "took out her right arm with the burning club.">> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "skull">> <<set $skullav to true>> <<set $skullloc to $location>> <<set $itemmanipulation to "took out her skull.">> <</if>>\ <<run $inventory.deleteAt(_i)>><<if $inventory.length == 0>><<goto $return>><</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "pickupfloor">>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<if setup[$itemonthefloor].size == 2 && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true || setup[$itemonthefloor].size == 2 && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ Pick up The <<print setup[$itemonthefloor].name>> was too big for Rosalinda to pick up without both of her arms. <<elseif $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ Pick up Rosalinda needed at least one arm to manipulate items. <<else>>\ <<link "Pick up">> <<set $itemmanipulation to "picked up the <<print setup[$itemonthefloor].name>>!">> <<run $inventory.push($itemonthefloor)>> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.delete($itemonthefloor)>> <<run Dialog.close()>> <</link>>\ <</if>> <<elseif $activepart == "larm">>\ <<if setup[$itemonthefloor].size == 2>>\ Pick up The <<print setup[$itemonthefloor].name>> was too big for Rosalinda’s left arm to pick up. <<else>>\ <<partpickup "larm">>\ <</if>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if setup[$itemonthefloor].size == 2>>\ Pick upThe <<print setup[$itemonthefloor].name>> was too big for Rosalinda’s right arm to pick up. <<else>>\ <<partpickup "rarm">>\ <</if>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if setup[$itemonthefloor].size > 0>>\ Pick upThe <<print setup[$itemonthefloor].name>> was much too big for Piecrust to pick up. <<else>>\ <<partpickup "piecrust">>\ <</if>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "skull">>Pick upRosalinda’s skull couldn’t pick up any items. <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "partpickup">>\ <<link "Pick up">>\ <<set $itemmanipulation to "picked up the <<= setup[$itemonthefloor].name>>!">> <<if State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] != "none">>\ <<set _name to State.variables["item" +$args[0]]>> <<set $dropped to setup[_name].name>> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push(State.variables["item"+ $args[0]])>> <<set $itemmanipulation to "dropped the $dropped and picked up the <<= setup[$itemonthefloor].name>>!">> <</if>> <<set State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] to $itemonthefloor>> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.delete($itemonthefloor)>> <<run Dialog.close()>> <</link>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "partdrop">>\ <<link "Drop">>\ <<set _name to State.variables["item" +$args[0]]>> <<set $dropped to setup[_name].name>> <<if $dropped == "courtroom key">> <<makepopuptext "" "“I can’t risk some Chosen picking it up!” thought Rosalinda.">> <<else>> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push(State.variables["item"+ $args[0]])>> <<set $itemmanipulation to "dropped the $dropped.">> <<set State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] to setup.none.name>> <<goto $return>> <<specialdrops>> <</if>> <</link>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "giveto">>\ <<if $combining>>\ <<else>>\ <<if setup[$inventory[_i]].size < 2>>\ <<if $inventory[_i] != "leftarm" && $inventory[_i] != "rightarm" && $inventory[_i] != "skull" && $inventory[_i] != "leftarmwithclub" && $inventory[_i] != "rightarmwithclub">>\ <<if $larmloc == $location || $rarmloc == $location || $piecrustloc == $location && setup[$inventory[_i]].size == 0>>\ <<if $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ Give to\ <<else>>\ <<link "Give to">>\ <<makepopuppass "Give item" "Give item">>\ <</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "transfer">> <<if State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] != "none">> <<set $olditem to State.variables["item"+ $args[0]]>> <<run Dialog.close()>> <<makepopuppass "Swap items?" "Swap items?" $args[0] $args[1]>> <<else>> <<set State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] to $inventory[_i]>> <<run $inventory.deleteAt(_i)>> <<goto "Inventory">> <<run Dialog.close()>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "transferdrop">> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push(State.variables["item"+ $args[0]])>> <<set State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] to $inventory[_i]>> <<run $inventory.deleteAt(_i)>> <<run Dialog.close()>> <<goto "Inventory">> <</widget>> <<widget "transferswap">> <<run $inventory.push(State.variables["item"+ $args[0]])>> <<set State.variables["item"+ $args[0]] to $inventory[_i]>> <<run $inventory.deleteAt(_i)>> <<run Dialog.close()>> <<goto "Inventory">> <</widget>>\ <<widget "partgiveto">>\ <<if $activepart == "larm" && $rarmloc == $location || $activepart == "rarm" && $larmloc == $location || $activepart == "larm" && setup[$itemlarm].size == 0 && $piecrustloc == $location || $activepart == "rarm" && setup[$itemrarm].size == 0 && $piecrustloc == $location || $activepart == "piecrust" && $larmloc == $location || $activepart == "piecrust" && $rarmloc == $location || $bodyloc == $location>>\ <<link "Give to">><<set $olditem to State.variables["item"+ $args[0]]>><<if $olditem == "courtroomkey">><<makepopuptext "" "“The arm has a much better chance of opening the door unnoticed,” thought Rosalinda.">><<else>><<makepopuppass "Give item" "Part give item">><</if>><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "partgivetobody">>\ <<set State.variables["item"+ $activepart] to "none">><<run $inventory.push($olditem)>><<set $itemmanipulation to "gave the <<= setup[$olditem].name>> to Rosalinda.">><<run Dialog.close()>><<goto $return>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "partgivetopart">>\ <<if State.variables["item" + $args[0]] == "none">>\ <<set State.variables["item"+ $activepart] to "none">>\ <<set State.variables["item" + $args[0]] to $olditem>>\ <<set $itemmanipulation to "gave the <<= setup[$olditem].name>> to $taker.">>\ <<run Dialog.close()>>\ <<goto $return>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust" && setup[$args[1]].size > 0>>\ <<set $itempiecrust to "none">> <<set $dropped to setup[$args[1]].name>> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push($args[1])>> <<set State.variables["item" + $args[0]] to $olditem>> <<set $itemmanipulation to "gave the <<= setup[$olditem].name>> to $taker. $taker dropped the $dropped it was holding, as Piecrust was too small to take it.">>\ <<run Dialog.close()>>\ <<goto $return>>\ <<else>>\ <<parttransferswap>> <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "parttransferswap">> <<makepopuppass "Swap items?" "Part swap items?">> <</widget>> <<widget "cast">>\ <<link "Cast">><<set $activespell to $args[0]>> <<if $activespell == "Air Bubble">> <<set $airbubble to true>> <<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust cast the spell, surrounding himself with a small air bubble.">> <<else>> <<set $casting to true>><</if>><<goto $return>><</link>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "use">>\ <<if not $combining>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ Use\ <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "hoodedcloak">>\ <<link "Use">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda was wearing the cloak, so she could not use it on anything.">><</link>>\ <<elseif setup[$args[0]].size == 2 && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true || setup[$args[0]].size == 2 && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ Use (two arms required!)\ <<else>>\ <<link "Use">><<set $activeitem to $args[0]>><<set $using to true>><<goto $return>><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "specialdrops">>\ <<if State.variables.rooms["Mouse Hole"].items.includes("corn") && $location == "Mouse Hole">><<run State.variables.rooms["Mouse Hole"].items.delete("corn")>><<goto "dropcorn">><</if>>\ <<if State.variables.rooms["Chamber Of Trials"].items.includes("sword") && $location == "Chamber Of Trials" && $lydiaactiveinchamber>><<run State.variables.rooms["Chamber Of Trials"].items.delete("sword")>><<goto "Lydia picks up sword chamber">><</if>>\ <<if State.variables.rooms["Ancient Library"].items.includes("sword") && $location == "Ancient Library" && $lydiaactiveinlibrary>><<run State.variables.rooms["Ancient Library"].items.delete("sword")>><<goto "Lydia picks up sword library">><</if>>\ <<unset $itemmanipulation>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "getitemfromdescription">>\ <<set _pickedup to $args[1]>>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<run $inventory.push($args[0])>><<set _desc to "picked up the _pickedup and added it to her inventory.">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">>\ <<if $itemlarm != "none">>\ <<set _name to $itemlarm>> <<set $dropped to setup[_name].name>>\ <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push($itemlarm)>>\ <<set _desc to "dropped the $dropped and picked up the _pickedup.">>\ <<else>>\ <<set _desc to "picked up the _pickedup.">>\ <</if>>\ <<set $itemlarm to $args[0]>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if $itemrarm != "none">>\ <<set _name to $itemrarm>>\ <<set $dropped to setup[_name].name>>\ <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push($itemrarm)>>\ <<set _desc to "dropped the $dropped and picked up the _pickedup.">>\ <<else>>\ <<set _desc to "picked up the _pickedup.">>\ <</if>>\ <<set $itemrarm to $args[0]>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if $itempiecrust != "none">>\ <<set _name to $itempiecrust>> <<set $dropped to setup[_name].name>>\ <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push($itemlarm)>>\ <<set _desc to "dropped the $dropped and picked up the _pickedup.">>\ <<else>>\ <<set _desc to "picked up the _pickedup.">>\ <</if>>\ <<set $itempiecrust to $args[0]>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "separate">>\ <<if $inventory[_i] == "whipwithrightarm">>\ <<link "Separate" "Inventory">><<run $inventory.delete("whipwithrightarm")>><<run $inventory.push("whip", "rightarm")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda untied her right arm from the whip.">><</link>> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "whipwithleftarm">>\ <<link "Separate" "Inventory">><<run $inventory.delete("whipwithleftarm")>><<run $inventory.push("whip", "leftarm")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda untied her left arm from the whip.">><</link>> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "leftarmwithclub">>\ <<link "Separate" "Inventory">><<run $inventory.delete("leftarmwithclub")>><<run $inventory.push("club", "leftarm")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda took the club from her left arm.">><</link>> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "rightarmwithclub">>\ <<link "Separate" "Inventory">><<run $inventory.delete("rightarmwithclub")>><<run $inventory.push("club", "rightarm")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda took the club from her right arm.">><</link>> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "leftarmwithfieryclub">>\ <<link "Separate" "Inventory">><<run $inventory.delete("leftarmwithfieryclub")>><<run $inventory.push("fieryclub", "leftarm")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda took the flaming club from her left arm.">><</link>> <<elseif $inventory[_i] == "rightarmwithfieryclub">>\ <<link "Separate" "Inventory">><<run $inventory.delete("rightarmwithfieryclub")>><<run $inventory.push("fieryclub", "rightarm")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda took the flaming club from her right arm.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</widget>>\

<<widget "roominventory">>\ <<if State.variables.rooms[passage()].items.length > 0>>\ Items lying around: <<for _i to 0; _i lt State.variables.rooms[passage()].items.length; _i++>>\ <<capture _i>>\ <<if $using>>\ <<link setup[$rooms[passage()].items[_i]].name>><<set $itemonthefloor to State.variables.rooms[passage()].items[_i]>><<useonthefloor>><</link>>\ <<elseif $casting>>\ <<link setup[$rooms[passage()].items[_i]].name>><<set $itemonthefloor to State.variables.rooms[passage()].items[_i]>><<castonthefloor>><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link setup[$rooms[passage()].items[_i]].name>><<set $itemonthefloor to State.variables.rooms[passage()].items[_i]>><<makepopuppass setup[$itemonthefloor].name "Item on the floor">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</capture>>\ <<if _i < (State.variables.rooms[passage()].items.length - 1)>>\, <</if>>\ <</for>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $itemmanipulation>>\ <<partfullname>> $itemmanipulation<<unset $itemmanipulation, $dropped, $recipient, $taker>> <</if>> <</widget>>\ <<widget "roompickup">>\ <<if setup[[passage()].items[_i]].size > 0 && $activepart == "Piecrust">> <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "object">>\ <<set _link to $args[0]>>\ <<set _object to $args[0].replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _object to _object.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _object to _object.replaceAll("'", "")>><<capture _object>>\ <<set _last to _link.charAt(_link.length-1)>>\ <<if Util.isNumeric(_last)>>\ <<set _link to _link.slice(0,-1)>>\ <</if>>\ <<capture _link>>\ <<if $casting>>\ <<link _link>><<applyspell _object>><</link>>\ <<elseif $using>>\ <<link _link>><<applyuse _object>><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<if setup[_object].key>>\ <<link _link>><<makepopuppass _link _object>><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link _link>><<makepopuptext _link setup[_object].descpie>>\<</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link _link>><<makepopuptext _link setup[_object].desc>>\<</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</capture>>\ <</capture>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "roomname">>\ <center><<=passage()>></center> <</widget>>\ <<widget "applyspell">> <<if $location == "Aurelia’s Study" && hasVisited("Tekla Opens Passage") != true>> <<makepopuptext "" "“I shouldn't use magic with Aurelia so close by,” thought Piecrust. “What if she detected me?”">> <<else>> <<set _spell1s to $args[0].replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _spell1s to _spell1s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _spell1s to _spell1s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<set _spell2s to $activespell.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _spell2s to _spell2s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _spell2s to _spell2s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.castkeymessages)>> <<if setup.castkeymessages[_key] == (_spell1s + _spell2s)>> <<goto setup.castkeymessages[_key]>><<unset $casting>><<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <<if _done != true>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.castmessages)>> <<if setup.castmessages[_key].name == (_spell1s + _spell2s)>> <<makepopuptext "" setup.castmessages[_key].message>> <<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <</if>> <<if _done != true>> <<makepopuptext "" setup[_spell2s].fail.random()>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "applyuse">> <<set _using1s to $args[0].replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _using1s to _using1s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _using1s to _using1s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<set _using2s to $activeitem.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _using2s to _using2s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _using2s to _using2s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.usekeymessages)>> <<if setup.usekeymessages[_key] == (_using1s + _using2s)>> <<goto setup.usekeymessages[_key]>><<unset $using>><<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <<if _done != true>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.usemessages)>> <<if setup.usemessages[_key].name == (_using1s + _using2s)>> <<makepopuptext "" setup.usemessages[_key].message>> <<set _done to true>> <<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <</if>> <<if _done != true>> <<set _roll to random(1,2)>> <<if _using1s == "chasm">> <<makepopuptext "" "Throwing anything down the chasm would almost certainly mean losing it forever.">> <<elseif _roll == 1 && setup[$activeitem].fail.length > 0>> <<makepopuptext "" setup[$activeitem].fail.random()>> <<else>> <<makepopuptext "" setup.usefail.random()>> <</if>> <</if>>\ <</widget>> <<widget "useonthefloor">> <<set _using1s to $activeitem.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _using1s to _using1s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _using1s to _using1s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<set _using2s to $itemonthefloor.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _using2s to _using2s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _using2s to _using2s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.combinekeymessages)>> <<if setup.combinekeymessages[_key].name == (_using1s + _using2s) || setup.combinekeymessages[_key].name == (_using2s + _using1s)>> <<makenewitemfloor>><<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <<if _done != true>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.usekeymessages)>> <<if setup.usekeymessages[_key] == (_using1s + _using2s)>> <<goto setup.usekeymessages[_key]>><<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <</if>> <<if _done != true>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.usemessages)>> <<if setup.usemessages[_key].name == (_using1s + _using2s)>> <<makepopuptext "" setup.usemessages[_key].message>> <<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <</if>> <<if _done != true>> <<set _roll to random(1,2)>> <<if _roll == 1 && setup[$activeitem].fail.length > 0>> <<makepopuptext "" setup[$activeitem].fail.random()>><<break>> <<else>> <<makepopuptext "" setup.usefail.random()>><<break>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "makenewitemfloor">> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push(setup.combinekeymessages[_key].newitem)>> <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.delete($itemonthefloor)>> <<run $inventory.delete($activeitem)>> <<unset $using, $itemonthefloor, $activeitem>> <<makepopuptext "Items combined!" setup.combinekeymessages[_key].message>> <<goto $location>> <</widget>> <<widget "castonthefloor">> <<set _spell1s to $itemonthefloor.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _spell1s to _spell1s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _spell1s to _spell1s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<set _spell2s to $activespell.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _spell2s to _spell2s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _spell2s to _spell2s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.castkeymessages)>> <<if setup.castkeymessages[_key] == (_spell1s + _spell2s)>> <<goto setup.castkeymessages[_key]>><<unset $casting>><<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <<if _done != true>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.castmessages)>> <<if setup.castmessages[_key].name == (_spell1s + _spell2s)>> <<makepopuptext "" setup.castmessages[_key].message>> <<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <</if>> <<if _done != true>> <<makepopuptext "" setup[_spell2s].fail.random()>> <</if>>\ <</widget>>

<<unset $using>>\ <<=setup[$itemlarm].name.toUpperFirst()>> <<=setup[$itemlarm].desc>> <<partdrop "larm">><<partgiveto "larm">><<use $itemlarm>>

<<unset $using>>\ <<=setup[$itemrarm].name.toUpperFirst()>> <<=setup[$itemrarm].desc>> <<partdrop "rarm">><<partgiveto "rarm">><<use $itemrarm>>

<<unset $using, $casting>>\ Item: <<if $itempiecrust == "none">>$piecrustdisplayname wasn’t carrying an item.<<else>><<=setup[$itempiecrust].name.toUpperFirst()>> <<=setup[$itempiecrust].descpie>><</if>>\ <<if $itempiecrust != "none">> <<partdrop "piecrust">><<partgiveto "piecrust">><<use $itempiecrust>><</if>>\ <<if $spells.length > 0>>\ Spells: <<for _i to 0; _i lt $spells.length; _i++>>\ <<capture _i>>\ <<= setup[$spells[_i]].name>> <<= setup[$spells[_i]].desc>><<cast setup[$spells[_i]].name>> <</capture>>\ <</for>>\ <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<= setup[$itemonthefloor].descpie>> <<else>>\ <<= setup[$itemonthefloor].desc>> <</if>>\ <<pickupfloor>>

Give the <<= setup[$inventory[_i]].name>> to whom? <<if $larmloc == $location>>\ <<link "To Rosalinda’s left arm">><<transfer "larm" "Rosalinda’s left arm">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $rarmloc == $location>>\ <<link "To Rosalinda’s right arm">><<transfer "rarm" "Rosalinda’s right arm">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $piecrustloc == $location>>\ <<if setup[$inventory[_i]].size > 0>>\ To Piecrust (Piecrust was too small to carry the <<= setup[$inventory[_i]].name>>.) <<else>>\ <<link "To Piecrust">><<transfer "piecrust" "Piecrust">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Cancel">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

$args[3] was already holding the <<= setup[$olditem].name>>, so <<if $args[0] == "piecrust">>he<<else>>it<</if>>... <<link "gave the old item to Rosalinda">><<transferswap $args[2]>><</link>> <<link "dropped the old item on the floor">><<transferdrop $args[2]>><</link>>

Give the <<= setup[$olditem].name>> to whom? <<if $bodyloc == $location>>\ <<if $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ To Rosalinda (Rosalinda had no arms to take the $olditem.) <<else>>\ <<link "To Rosalinda">><<partgivetobody>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $larmloc == $location && $activepart != "larm">>\ <<link "To Rosalinda’s left arm">><<set $recipient to "larm">><<set $taker to "Rosalinda’s left arm">><<partgivetopart "larm" $itemlarm>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $rarmloc == $location && $activepart != "rarm">>\ <<link "To Rosalinda’s right arm">><<set $recipient to "rarm">><<set $taker to "Rosalinda’s right arm">><<partgivetopart "rarm" $itemrarm>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $piecrustloc == $location && $activepart != "piecrust">>\ <<if setup[$olditem].size > 0>>\ To Piecrust (Piecrust was too small to carry the $olditem.) <<else>>\ <<link "To Piecrust">><<set $recipient to "piecrust">><<set $taker to "Piecrust">><<partgivetopart "piecrust" $itempiecrust>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Cancel">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

<<set _held to State.variables["item"+ $recipient]>>\ <<if $recipient == "larm">>Rosalinda’s left arm<<elseif $recipient == "rarm">>Rosalinda’s right arm<<else>>Piecrust<</if>> was already holding the <<= setup[_held].name>>, so <<if $recipient == "Piecrust">>he<<else>>it<</if>>... <<link "swapped the old item for the new one">><<set State.variables["item"+ $activepart] to State.variables["item" + $recipient]>> <<set State.variables["item" + $recipient] to $olditem>> <<run Dialog.close()>><<goto $return>><</link>> <<link "dropped the old item on the floor">><<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push(State.variables["item"+ $recipient])>> <<set State.variables["item" + $recipient] to $olditem>><<set State.variables["item"+ $activepart] to "none">><<run Dialog.close()>><<goto $return>><</link>>

<<widget "combinelink">>\ <<if $inventory.length > 1>>\ <<if $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ Combine with\ <<else>>\ <<if $combining>>\ <<if $inventory[_i] == $combine1>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Select" "Inventory">><<set $combine2 to $inventory[_i]>><<combine>><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Combine with" "Inventory">><<set $combining to true>><<set $combine1 to $inventory[_i]>><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>>\ <<widget "combine">>\ <<set _combine1s to $combine1.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _combine1s to _combine1s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _combine1s to _combine1s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<set _combine2s to $combine2.replaceAll(" ", "")>><<set _combine2s to _combine2s.replaceAll("’", "")>><<set _combine2s to _combine2s.replaceAll("'", "")>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.combinekeymessages)>> <<if setup.combinekeymessages[_key].name == (_combine1s + _combine2s) || setup.combinekeymessages[_key].name == (_combine2s + _combine1s)>> <<makenewitem>><<set _done to true>><<break>> <</if>> <</for>> <<if _done != true>> <<for _key range Object.keys(setup.combinemessages)>> <<if setup.combinemessages[_key].name == (_combine1s + _combine2s) || setup.combinemessages[_key].name == (_combine2s + _combine1s)>> <<makepopuptext "Cannot combine items" setup.combinemessages[_key].message>><<break>> <<else>> <<makepopuptext "Cannot combine items" setup.combinefail.random()>> <</if>> <</for>> <</if>> <</widget>>\ <<widget "makenewitem">> <<run $inventory.push(setup.combinekeymessages[_key].newitem)>> <<run $inventory.delete($combine1, $combine2)>> <<unset $combining, $combine1, $combine2>> <<makepopuptext "Items combined!" setup.combinekeymessages[_key].message>> <<goto "Inventory">> <</widget>>

<<if $closetopen>>\ It was open. <<else>>\ It was closed. <<link "Open">><<set $closetopen to true>><<run Dialog.close()>><<makepopuppass "Closet" "closet">><</link>> <</if>>

<<if $casting>><div id = "messagebox"><center>Click a highlighted object to cast the $activespell spell on it.</center></div><</if>>\ <<if $using>><div id = "messagebox"><center>Click a highlighted object to use the <<= setup[$activeitem].name>> on it.</center></div><</if>>\

<<widget "initobjects">> <<set setup.closet to {key: true, desc:"", }>> <<set setup.plaque to {key: false, desc:"A simple metal plaque.", descpie:"A simple metal plaque.", }>> <<set setup.statueofanangel to {key: false, desc:"The stone statue was gazing at <<partfullname>> with unseeing eyes. Its face was almost featureless because of the deterioration, and both of its wings were broken.", descpie:"The stone statue was gazing at <<partfullname>> with unseeing eyes. Its face was almost featureless because of the deterioration, and both of its wings were broken.", }>> <<set setup.newcoffin to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.lid to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.knot to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.shutcoffin to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.thickbrambles to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.cemeterygate to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.WillowbrookCemetery to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.blackbird to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.ThreeLightsChosen to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.longsword to {key: false, desc:"The shiny sword was pointed directly at Rosalinda, who did not dare to move.", descpie:"“I have to disarm that man!” thought Piecrust. “There’s not a moment to waste!”", }>> <<set setup.chestsandfilingcabinets to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.wirecage to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.rustywirecage to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.cat to {key: false, desc:"The cat was patiently waiting just outside the room, its menacing shadow barely moving.", descpie:"The cat was patiently waiting just outside the room, its menacing shadow barely moving.", }>> <<set setup.Pilesofpapers to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.greymouse to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.amarble to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"“Could I have this?” asked Piecrust, eyeing the blue and white marble. The grey mouse hissed at him and curled up, protecting its treasure. Piecrust realised he would get attacked if he tried to take it away.", }>> <<set setup.sicklywoman to {key: false, desc:"Rosalinda couldn’t tell if the woman was young or old. She was thin, dressed in dirty rags. She sat with her knees to her chest and her head down, appearing oblivious to her surroundings. Sometimes, she would shudder and wave her arms in terror, trying to chase away some threat only she could see.", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.doubledoor to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Chosen to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.twoguards to {key: false, desc:"The guards, silent and motionless, were not looking at Rosalinda, yet she felt like they were watching her constantly.", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.twoguards0 to {key: false, desc:"The guards moved away from the door when Tekla started banging on it. Perhaps they were afraid the Ogress would break it down and trample over them.", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.maincourtyard to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"“An escape route,” thought Piecrust. “But I must help Rosalinda first.”", }>> <<set setup.prisoncell to {key: false, desc:"The door of the iron cage was locked. Rosalinda’s arm could squeeze between the bars, but Osmund was guarding her and would notice.", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.NoviceOsmund to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.doortothecourtroom to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Tekla to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"Tekla, now dressed in an apron in place of armour, was staring at the young man starting the fire. Unlike him, or the two girls, she looked calm and content. “I knew I’d find her here!” thought Piecrust. “I have to talk to her, and fast, but how can I approach her with all these people around?”", }>> <<set setup.hunkofmeat to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"It looked like the back half of a pig, and was probably the dinner for the entire Citadel. It was still raw, because the young man could not start a fire in the furnace. Piecrust would happily try the meat anyway, as he was getting rather hungry, but he couldn’t with all the people staring at it.", }>> <<set setup.youngman to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"The young man was repeatedly striking a flint with a pocket knife, huffing, puffing and growing more frustrated every moment, but he could not start the fire. Whenever one of the two girls offered to help him, he growled, “I KNOW what I’m doing. It’s just because you’re staring at me that it doesn’t work.”", }>> <<set setup.twogirls to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"The young girls were wearing aprons and looked like kitchen helpers. They were staring at the young man’s consistently failing attempts to start a fire, and trying to help him by criticising every move he made.", }>> <<set setup.helpers to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"The girls were chatting among themselves, discussing recent events in Greywall. They were worried about demons and possessed people, and very glad they were working in the Citadel, under the watchful eye of the Demon Crusher herself.", }>> <<set setup.spit to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"The meat roasting on the spit was starting to smell really, REALLY good. Piecrust was one step away from rushing towards it. Only the thought of Rosalinda, and the fear of being stepped upon by one of the girls, helped him stay put.", }>> <<set setup.firewood to {key: false, desc:"", descpie:"It was a large pile of firewood, and looked dry enough. The young man could not set it on fire, though, no matter what names he called his flint, his pocket knife and the wood itself.", }>> <<set setup.TeklatheOgress to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.backdoor to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.CaptainLydia to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.CouncilmanFigg to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.courtclerk to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Tekla0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.courtroomdoor to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.pileofpapers to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Tekla1 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Lydia to {key: false, desc:"“Don’t let the prisoner escape!” yelled Lydia and reached for her sword – but she wasn’t carrying one.", descpie:"“Don’t let the prisoner escape!” yelled Lydia and reached for her sword – but she wasn’t carrying one.", }>> <<set setup.clerk to {key: false, desc:"The court clerk was furiously taking notes, pretending she couldn’t see or hear the chaos raging in the courtroom.", descpie:"The court clerk was furiously taking notes, pretending she couldn’t see or hear the chaos raging in the courtroom.", }>> <<set setup.Chosen0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Albert to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Tekla2 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie:"", }>> <<set setup.Piecrust to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.doorswithwindows to {key: false, desc:"The window panes were rattling loudly, as if they were about to fall out. Rosalinda wouldn’t be surprised if the doors were to open on their own. “Still,” she thought, “if I want to take a look outside, I should use the hatch. If I get out of the door, I’ll fall onto the cobblestones and break into a hundred pieces.”", descpie:"Outside of the windows, lights flashed as they passed by houses. Piecrust wondered where they were going. He had an unpleasant feeling Norbert might not know himself. “He probably hoped to just take us down a street or two, and didn’t expect the Chosen to be this persistent. I have to give it to Lydia – her troops are well organised.”", }>> <<set setup.rearwindow to {key: false, desc:"Through the rear window one could see a group of Light’s Chosen on horseback, chasing after the coach. They were all holding weapons – swords or crossbows – except for one: Novice Osmund, who was riding in the back, clutching a lantern in one hand. Rosalinda thought he looked scared, and also barely stayed in the saddle.", descpie:"Through the rear window one could see a group of Light’s Chosen on horseback, chasing after the coach. They were holding weapons – swords or crossbows." , }>> <<set setup.hatch to {key: false, desc:"The hatch was half-open.", descpie:"The hatch was half-open.", }>> <<set setup.Norbert to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.wornoutbook to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.pursuers to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.cobbledstreet to {key: false, desc:"The narrow cobbled street led towards the northern gate of Greywall.", descpie: "The narrow cobbled street led towards the northern gate of Greywall.", }>> <<set setup.dirtroad to {key: false, desc:"The rutty road led towards the dark mass of the forest north of Greywall.", descpie: "The rutty road led towards the dark mass of the forest north of Greywall.", }>> <<set setup.KnightLeon to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.KnightLeon1 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Bella to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.horse to {key: false, desc:"Leon’s mount was much larger than Bella. The bony coach mare resisted being pushed with all her might, but it was clear sooner or later she will trip and fall, taking down Daisy with her and upsetting the coach.", descpie: "Leon’s mount was much larger than Bella. The bony coach mare resisted being pushed with all her might, but it was clear sooner or later she will trip and fall, taking down Daisy with her and upsetting the coach.", }>> <<set setup.buckle to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Crag to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Pest to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Osmund to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Osmund0 to {key: false, desc:"Novice Osmund was bound with ropes around his ankles and wrists, and gagged. He was lying near the campfire, opposite of the two ruffians. Rosalinda saw no way of getting to Osmund and helping him without being noticed by the thugs.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Osmund1 to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.coach to {key: false, desc:"The coach was empty – no sign of any of its passengers. Daisy and Bella were also nowhere to be seen. Rosalinda hoped none of them got seriously hurt in the crash.", descpie: "The coach was empty – no sign of any of its passengers. Daisy and Bella were also nowhere to be seen. “We’re lucky we survived that crash,” thought Piecrust.", }>> <<set setup.coachlantern to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Darktrees to {key: false, desc:"Most of the trees were leafless, save for a few conifers. They looked old, ancient almost, with gnarly roots and branches.", descpie: "The trees were tall, old, and dangerous. There were too many branches and holes up there where hosts of owls could hide. Piecrust stayed cautious, ready to blast anything swooping down at him with magic.", }>> <<set setup.thickundergrowth to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.bracket to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.treestump to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.clumpofmoss to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.theskullofRosalinda to {key: false, desc:"“My poor skull!” thought Rosalinda. “It got picked up by a bone collector! I have to get it back!", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.tinmug to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Pest0 to {key: false, desc:"Pest was standing next to Rosalinda’s skull, scratching his head in wonder, trying to figure out if it had really smiled at him. He seemed more perplexed then scared.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Pest1 to {key: false, desc:"Pest was asleep, sitting with his back against a tree trunk.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.trailofburnedgrass to {key: false, desc:"“Maybe Piecrust cast his fire spells and left this trail?” wondered Rosalinda. “But why would he do that? Was he attacked?”", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.pileofstones to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.deeplake to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.onesmallhole to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.monstrouscatfish to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.goldencage to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.gapingmaw to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "The terrifying black void was getting closer and closer as the monstrous catfish continued sucking in water, and Piecrust with it.", }>> <<set setup.banditguards to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.brightcampfire to {key: false, desc:"The campfire illuminated the courtyard, making it difficult for anything bigger than, say, a skeletal arm, to sneak past the guards.", descpie: "The campfire illuminated the courtyard. Piecrust was sure he’d be able to slip past the guards anyway, but it wouldn’t be possible for Rosalinda, or Osmund.", }>> <<set setup.extinguishedcampfire to {key: false, desc:"The firewood was drenched in water. Some embers were still glowing, but all they produced was thick smoke, which enveloped the area.", descpie: "The firewood was drenched in water. Some embers were still glowing, but all they produced was thick smoke, which enveloped the area.", }>> <<set setup.elephantstatue to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.luxuriouscarriage to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.skeleton to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "The skeleton was not an undead – just a pile of very old bones. “Poor devil,” thought Piecrust, remembering the plaque on the statue’s pedestal. “They probably stole that scroll from the rulers of Archwall and were buried alive here as punishment.”", }>> <<set setup.scrollofparchment to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Osmund2 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.buriedcity to {key: false, desc:"Rosalinda wondered at the many levels of ruins. “This must have been a great city, with huge dungeons,” she thought. “Almost everything above the ground was destroyed, but the lower levels survived, apparently.”", descpie: "“Remarkable!” thought Piecrust. “This must be the best-preserved part of Archwall. Too bad the secrets it hides are so dangerous.”", }>> <<set setup.planksofwood to {key: false, desc:"The planks were too heavy for Rosalinda to carry alone. “Looks like construction materials used to support freshly dug corridors,” thought Rosalinda. “This… operation is remarkably well organised.”", descpie: "Large, heavy planks of wood, relatively fresh. Piecrust thought they smelt nice – too bad they weren’t edible.", }>> <<set setup.hole to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.barrel to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.recentlytrampledshrubs to {key: false, desc:"The path looked overgrown and rarely used, but someone must have followed it recently. Rosalinda could distinguish hoofprints and tracks of heavy boots.", descpie: "The path looked overgrown and rarely used, but someone must have followed it recently. It smelled of horses, too.", }>> <<set setup.Albert0 to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Norbert0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Albert1 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.DaisyandBella to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.stoneslabs to {key: false, desc:"The slabs were cracked. Some were bulging under the immense pressure of rock and soil. Rosalinda realised they must have been here since the times of Archwall, and hoped they will hold together a bit longer.", descpie: "The slabs were cracked. Some were bulging under the immense pressure of rock and soil, but they held in place. Piecrust had the feeling some forgotten Archwall magic was the reason the hall had not caved in a long time ago.", }>> <<set setup.drawbridge to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.lever to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.chasm to {key: false, desc:"There was no telling how deep the chasm really was – its bottom was shrouded in darkness.", descpie: "There was no telling how deep the chasm really was – its bottom was shrouded in darkness.", }>> <<set setup.Albert2 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Norbert1 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Osmund3 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.DaisyandBella0 to {key: false, desc:"The horses had had some rest and were already looking much better. They were calmly grazing, swishing their tails.", descpie: "The horses had had some rest and were already looking much better. They were calmly grazing, swishing their tails. “Norbert should give them some oats. Too bad he doesn’t have any,” thought Piecrust, his stomach rumbling again.", }>> <<set setup.magiceye to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.ledge to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.magiceye1 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.stonedoor to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Siegfried to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.chest to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Tekla3 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.alertbandits to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.captives to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.captives0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.glowingtunnel to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.anotherdoor to {key: false, desc:"The door was locked.", descpie: "The door was locked. Piecrust tried to squeeze underneath, but could not. He realised the door was additionally secured with a spell.", }>> <<set setup.mousehole to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.mousehole1 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.bookshelves to {key: false, desc:"Several thick tomes on history and magic were lined on the bookshelves. Titles on some of the spines were in a script Rosalinda could not read.", descpie: "Piecrust looked at the bookshelves. Just like he expected, he saw tomes on magic and ancient history. “Aurelia must have done a lot of research before she came to the conclusion the Archwood ruins are worth exploring. After all, we’ve all been convinced no trace of Archwall magic remains. Or maybe we wanted to believe that?” He took a closer look at the titles. There were some tomes he’d never heard about, and some others that looked strangely familiar. “She stole books from my tower!” he realised. “How… how could she!”", }>> <<set setup.Aurelia to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Figg to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.bodyguard to {key: false, desc:"The imposing woman was looking around, alert at all times. “She looks tough,” thought Rosalinda. “I wouldn’t want to mess with her.”", descpie: "The imposing woman was looking around, alert at all times. “It’s smart of Figg to have a bodyguard, though I don’t think she would be able to save him from Aurelia, if anything happened,” thought Piecrust.", }>> <<set setup.tablewithpapers to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Siegfried1 to {key: false, desc:"Siegfried was doing his best to stay composed, although he shook a little when he saw <<partfullname>>.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Tekla4 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.trapdoor to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.shaft to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.dirt to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.boundbandits to {key: false, desc:"The two former guards were bound with ropes and gagged. They looked more confused than angry.", descpie: "The two former guards were bound with ropes and gagged. They looked more confused than angry.", }>> <<set setup.inscription to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.pileofrocks to {key: false, desc:"Tekla blocked the passage with rocks to hide the fact Rosalinda and Piecrust got through. Now she was working on the other side, doing her best to stall the progress and pretend there was still a lot of material to clear from the tunnel.", descpie: "Tekla blocked the passage with rocks to hide the fact Rosalinda and Piecrust got through. Now she was working on the other side, doing her best to stall the progress and pretend there’s still a lot of material to clear from the tunnel.", }>> <<set setup.shimmeringbarrier to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.construct to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.construct0 to {key: false, desc:"The construct was determined to destroy the intruder who approached it, and ignore anything else in the chamber. The fire inside its skull was burning brighter than when it had stood still.", descpie: "The construct was determined to destroy the intruder who approached it, and ignore anything else in the chamber. The fire inside its skull was burning brighter than when it had stood still.", }>> <<set setup.pressureplates to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.metalshovel to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.whitehorses to {key: false, desc:"The horses looked like thoroughbreds, but were tired and dirty. They were half-asleep, only occasionally shifting their weight or swishing their tails.", descpie: "The horses looked like thoroughbreds, but were tired and dirty. They were half-asleep, only occasionally shifting their weight or swishing their tails.", }>> <<set setup.stoneplate to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.CaptainLydia0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.CaptainLydia1 to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.headlessconstruct to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.constructwithRosalindasskull to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.goldencage0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.constructsremains to {key: false, desc:"The armour construct broke into several pieces, which were now scattered across the floor. Rosalinda somehow felt glad about it. When she controlled the thing, she felt very powerful – maybe too powerful. She was afraid the ancient magic could corrupt her.", descpie: "The armour construct broke into several pieces and, to Piecrust, seemed beyond repair. The mouse thought it could have something to do with his use of the Activate Mechanism spell, as the previous fall did not damage the construct so badly.", }>> <<set setup.tomesandscrolls to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Aurelia0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Siegfried0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Figg0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Tekla5 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Lydia0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Figgsbodyguard to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.dagger to {key: false, desc:"The sharp blade was pointed at Lydia’s throat, and getting closer and closer.", descpie: "The sharp blade was pointed at Lydia’s throat, and getting closer and closer.", }>> <<set setup.Figgsbodyguard0 to {key: false, desc:"The giant woman had been knocked out and posed no immediate danger.", descpie: "The giant woman had been knocked out and posed no immediate danger.", }>> <<set setup.horneddemon to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Aurelia1 to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.tomesandscrolls0 to {key: false, desc:"Aurelia was searching through the writings of the Archwall mages, muttering angrily and throwing some of the books to the ground.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.PiecrustandLydia to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.goldencage1 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.dustyrocks to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Rosalindasskull to {key: false, desc:"Rosalinda’s skull was placed on a bookshelf, and Aurelia kept attacking it with a barrage of illusion spells. The skull was feeling a little dizzy, but the illusions were not affecting her, like they did the others. And the good thing was, Aurelia was now fully focused on it.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Theodore to {key: false, desc:"", descpie: "Theodore was a middle-aged man with a short dark beard and dark hair. Currently, he was barefoot and wearing a ridiculous wizard robe. He was also slowly transforming into a rodent.", }>> <<set setup.Aurelia2 to {key: false, desc:"The sorceress was tied up and closely watched by Lydia. When Rosalinda tried to talk to her, Aurelia turned her head away.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Figgsbodyguard1 to {key: false, desc:"The huge woman was tied up and had a massive bump on her head. She was staring through the window in silence, but could not hide an intense look of shame on her face. Rosalinda couldn’t help but feel a little sorry for her, and her misplaced loyalty.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Theodore0 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Figg1 to {key: false, desc:"Philemon Figg looked utterly defeated. He even seemed smaller than before, as if he had deflated. He was staring at his shoes and quietly sobbing. Sometimes, he would mutter “This is a misunderstanding” or “Just wait till my lawyer hears about this,” but there was no conviction in his words.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Tekla6 to {key: false, desc:"The ogress kept hugging Rosalinda and crying with joy. “I’m so happy!” she said through tears. “You and Master Piecrust stopped Aurelia, and everyone knows you’re good now, and I can go back to cooking for the Chosen…” “I hope you’ll do more than cooking, Tekla,” said Lydia. “Your potential should not be wasted. You can do a lot of good for the city with your holy powers.”", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Albert3 to {key: false, desc:"“What an adventure!” said Albert and grinned. “I can’t wait to tell Lambert and Herbert everything about it. Not sure about Mom, though. She may not like Norbert and I putting ourselves at risk. Anyway, I’m glad you’re back with us, Rosalinda. I only wish I hadn’t made such a fool of myself. It turned out Siegfried wasn’t an actual warlock – just an actor. And I wanted to serve him! But maybe that’s for the better. I asked Master Theodore if I could work for him, and he agreed!” “I only said I would…” began Theodore, but Albert ignored him and kept talking: “I think I’m starting to get good at this whole thing. This may, in fact, be my true calling. And having a proper, non-evil wizard as my master for once will sure make Mom proud!”", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Osmund4 to {key: false, desc:"“You’re alive, Rosalinda!” exclaimed Osmund. “I’m so happy you didn’t die because of that terrible misunderstanding. Now we’ll have to clear you of all charges, and the whole of Greywall will know you’re a good skeleton, period!”", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.anoldman to {key: false, desc:"Rosalinda looked at the old man and recognised one of the captives who had worked for Aurelia at the dig site. The man, though thin and exhausted, was smiling. “Thank you for saving us,” he said. He did not seem bothered about Rosalinda’s skeletal looks at all. “Mister Theodore and Captain Lydia told us everything.” As he was speaking, more former captives crowded around him to take a look inside the coach and personally thank Rosalinda.", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.actorwhoplayedSiegfried to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Lydia2 to {key: false, desc:"“I must apologise, Rosalinda,” said Lydia. “I was wrong about you. I put blame on you for things you had no involvement with, only because you are an undead. I have learned my lesson. Prejudice shall no longer cloud my judgement.” She paused and looked at Aurelia and Figg. “Now that we know who really was behind the trouble in the city, I’ll make sure the right people are punished, and your name is cleared. I’ll do what I can to make you feel welcome in Greywall.” “Thank you, Captain,” replied Rosalinda. “That’s – that’s more than I could ask for.” “Nonsense. It’s what you deserve.”", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Lydia3 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.glintingobject to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.Piecrust0 to {key: false, desc:"“Hurry!” uttered Piecrust. “Help… Lydia…!”", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.tallgate to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <<set setup.CaptainLydia9 to {key: true, desc:"", descpie: "", }>> <</widget>>

<<widget "initspells">> <<set $spells to ["BanishDemon"]>> <<set setup.Rust to {name: "Rust", desc: "A spell to corrode metal. Young wizards learn this simple trick early, and some use it to annoy their teachers and peers.", fail: ["That wasn’t something Piecrust could turn to rust.", "Corrosion wasn’t the answer in this case.", "Using the Rust spell on that wouldn’t do much good."] }>> <<set setup.FlameArrow to {name: "Flame Arrow", desc: "Summons a fiery arrow, which can set combustible objects on fire, or light candles.", fail: ["It was a bad idea.", "“That would be irresponsible,” thought Piecrust."] }>> <<set setup.BanishDemon to {name: "Banish Demon", desc: "A spell to send a demon back to its realm.", fail: ["Piecrust cast the spell, but it didn’t do anything.", "“That clearly isn’t a demon,” thought Piecrust.", "Piecrust cast the Banish Demon spell, but it fizzled without an effect."] }>> <<set setup.AirBubble to {name: "Air Bubble", desc: "A spell which creates an air bubble around the caster, allowing them to breathe even underwater.", fail: [] }>> <<set setup.WaterJet to {name: "Water Jet", desc: "A spell which sends a powerful jet of water streaming from the caster’s hands (or paws).", fail: ["Piecrust cast the spell and sprayed some water around, to no particular effect.", "“I don’t want to soak that,” thought Piecrust.", "Making that wet would not help Piecrust."] }>> <<set setup.ActivateMechanism to {name: "Activate Mechanism", desc: "A spell which interacts with various mechanisms created by the ancient wizards of Archwall. It can work even inside an anti-magic field.", fail: ["The spell had no effect on its target.", "The target of the spell was not an ancient mechanism."] }>> <<set setup.RestoreForm to {name: "Restore Form", desc: "A spell which removes transformative curses and enchantments, returning objects and living beings to their true form.", fail: [] }>> <<set setup.FormOfRaven to {name: "Form Of Raven", desc: "A spell which allows the caster to transform into a raven.", fail: ["“No, no and no. I don’t want to turn into another animal,” thought Theodore. “Or, worse, end up as a half-raven, half mouse.”"] }>> <<set setup.CurePoison to {name: "Cure Poison", desc: "A spell which removes all kinds of poisons – common and magical – from its target’s body.", fail: ["Theodore wasn’t suffering from a poisoning."] }>> <<set setup.Fireball to {name: "Fireball", desc: "A bigger, hotter, more spherical, more destructive Flame Arrow.", fail: ["Casting a Fireball on oneself is never a good idea. Theodore could see it even in his clouded state of mind."] }>> <<set setup.LightningBolt to {name: "Lightning Bolt", desc: "A spell to summon a lightning strike.", fail: ["Theodore doubted getting hit by a lightning would stop the transformation."] }>> <<set setup.LeadIntoGold to {name: "Lead Into Gold", desc: "A difficult spell which turns lead objects into gold, but only for a short while. Due to it not being permanent, and the amount of energy required, it is mostly used by powerful mages as a neat party trick.", fail: ["Theodore did not want to turn himself into a golden statue. Not that he could, anyway – though his body felt awkward and heavy, he wasn’t made of lead."] }>> <<set setup.Levitate to {name: "Levitate", desc: "A spell to turn objects and people weightless and make them float in the air.", fail: ["It was a nice spell, but hard to control. Theodore suspected it would only press him against the ceiling, making escape impossible. And it would not stop the transformation."] }>> <<set setup.MagicShield to {name: "Magic Shield", desc: "A spell which forms a shield that blocks all objects and attacks. Bigger shields can protect other people in addition to the caster, but they consume much more energy and are hard to maintain.", fail: ["It was a good idea – but not while he was turning into a mouse, rapidly losing his freshly regained power."] }>> <<set setup.ZephyrHooves to {name: "Zephyr Hooves", desc: "A spell which can make a horse run fast like the wind. Popular among couriers.", fail: ["This particular spell only worked on horses."] }>> <<set setup.castkeymessages to ["shutcoffinRust", "lidRust", "longswordRust", "wirecageRust", "firewoodFlameArrow", "pileofpapersFlameArrow", "clubFlameArrow", "dirtroadWaterJet", "horseFlameArrow", "buckleRust", "bracketRust", "goldencageActivateMechanism", "gapingmawFlameArrow", "brightcampfireWaterJet", "CaptainLydia0WaterJet", "constructwithRosalindasskullActivateMechanism", "tomesandscrollsFlameArrow", "goldencage0ActivateMechanism", "FiggsbodyguardRust", "Aurelia0FlameArrow", "Aurelia0WaterJet", "daggerRust", "horneddemonBanishDemon", "TheodoreRestoreForm", "stoneplateFlameArrow"]>> <<set setup.castmessages to [{name: "pinRust", message: "The pin rusted immediately."}, {name: "ThreeLightsChosenRust", message: "“That won’t help” though Piecrust. “At best, I’d corrode the metal parts of their armour.”"}, {name: "ThreeLightsChosenBanishDemon", message: "Piecrust tried the spell, but it didn’t do anything. “Too bad they aren’t demons in disguise,” he thought."}, {name: "catRust", message: "The cat was alive and certainly not made of metal."}, {name: "PilesofpapersFlameArrow", message: "“I don’t want to start a deadly fire here!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "catFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust got ready to cast the spell and teach the cat a harsh lesson. The beast would eat him if it had a chance; it certainly deserved this, and worse. But as he started to recite the spell, he suddenly felt guilty. As the wizard Theodore, he used to have a cat. Her name was Poppy. She was a nice cat. Remembering that felt very strange, but it made him ashamed of the idea to set the beast on fire. “You got lucky this time, cat”, he thought. He had to find another way of dealing with the clawed menace."}, {name: "rustywirecageRust", message: "Piecrust had already ruined the cage with his Rust spell. He could not help but feel a little bit of satisfaction at his achievement."}, {name: "ChosenFlameArrow", message: "“That would only alert them to my presence” thought Piecrust. “I don’t want the entire Citadel looking for me.”"}, {name: "youngmanFlameArrow", message: "“I should light the wood on fire, not the man,” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "hunkofmeatFlameArrow", message: "“I could help with the roast!” thought Piecrust. “But burning the meat with magic is not the way to go.”"}, {name: "spitFlameArrow", message: "“The meat is already roasting nicely. No need to set anything else on fire,” thought Piecrust, wishing he could try the roast. It would only be fair, considering that he helped make it."}, {name: "LydiaFlameArrow", message: "“That would land us in even more trouble,” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "clerkFlameArrow", message: "“I don’t want to set people on fire. But if I burned something to create a distraction…” wondered Piecrust, eyeing the papers piled in front of the clerk."}, {name: "Chosen0FlameArrow", message: "“It will just bounce off their armour,” thought Piecrust. “Or worse, it will hit Rosalinda.”"}, {name: "TeklatheOgressFlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "TeklaFlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "Tekla0FlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "Tekla1FlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "Tekla2FlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "Tekla3FlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "Tekla4FlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "Tekla5FlameArrow", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "TeklatheOgress", message: "“I would never harm Tekla!” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "councilmanFiggFlameArrow", message: "Although Piecrust didn’t like the look of Figg one bit, he wasn’t the kind of wizard to go around shooting dangerous spells at people."}, {name: "catBanishDemon", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, but it had no effect. Not that it surprised him. To him personally, cats were terrifying, hungry demons, but he knew laws of magic did not work like that."}, {name: "cobbledstreetWaterJet", message: "Piecrust quickly muttered the words of the spell, pointing at the road in front of the Chosen. An intense stream of water hit the cobblestones, but quickly drained into the gutter."}, {name: "pursuersWaterJet", message: "Piecrust cast the spell in the direction of the Chosen, hoping the stream would be strong enough to unsaddle at least some of them. It wasn’t. It only soaked the riders in the front, making them even angrier."}, {name: "pursuersFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust knew he had to do something to stop the pursuers, even if it meant using battle spells against them. He aimed at one of the knights and launched a fiery arrow. It harmlessly bounced off his target’s armour. “Curse it!” screamed Piecrust. “If only I was Theodore, with all of his power…”"}, {name: "KnightLeonFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust shot a fiery arrow at Leon, but the air rush blew it towards the rear of the coach. “Blast it!” screamed Piecrust. “We’re going too fast.” He turned back and looked at the pursuers. They were close. He could already see a smile on Lydia’s face. “And too slow, as well!” he added."}, {name: "fieryclubFlameArrow", message: "The club was already on fire."}, {name: "KnightLeon1FlameArrow", message: "“Eat this!” screamed Piecrust, standing on his hind legs and casting the spell. The fiery arrow hit Leon’s armoured back and disappeared. The mouse cursed under his breath."}, {name: "buckleFlameArrow", message: "The spell bounced off the metal buckle."}, {name: "coachlanternRust", message: "Piecrust didn’t want to damage the potentially useful lantern."}, {name: "coachlanternFlameArrow", message: "“Better leave lighting it to someone who can open the glass,” thought Piecrust. “My spell would shatter it, and probably not even light the wick”."}, {name: "swordRust", message: "“I should not destroy it,” thought Piecrust. “This time, it’s not wielded by an enemy. It may prove useful yet.”"}, {name: "DarktreesFlameArrow", message: "A forest fire was not something Piecrust wanted to deal with at that time."}, {name: "thickundergrowthFlameArrow", message: "A forest fire was not something Piecrust wanted to deal with at that time."}, {name: "gapingmawRust", message: "In desperation, Piecrust cast the Rust spell, but it did nothing – the monster was made of flesh, not metal."}, {name: "gapingmawWaterJet", message: "Piecrust summon a jet of water, hoping to push himself away from the catfish, but his spell wasn’t strong enough."}, {name: "gapingmawBanishDemon", message: "Piecrust cast the spell with all his might. A stream of light hit the monster, but had no effect. The creature was not a demon – just an enormous fish."}, {name: "monstrouscatfishBanishDemon", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, but it had no effect. The creature was not a demon – just an enormous fish."}, {name: "monstrouscatfishFlameArrow", message: "“Better not to,” thought Piecrust. He didn’t want to wake the creature up for fear it would find him a tasty morsel."}, {name: "brightcampfireFlameArrow", message: "The campfire was already burning bright."}, {name: "banditguardsFlameArrow", message: "“I can’t defeat two armed men with my feeble magic”, thought Piecrust. “It would only make them alert others.”"}, {name: "banditguardsWaterJet", message: "“That would only alert them to my presence”, thought Piecrust."}, {name: "extinguishedcampfireFlameArrow", message: "The firewood was too wet to burn."}, {name: "OsmundFlameArrow", message: "“That trick with the hat he pulled on me was nasty, but he doesn’t seem like a bad person,” thought Piecrust. “I don’t want to scare him or hurt him.”"}, {name: "Osmund0FlameArrow", message: "“That trick with the hat he pulled on me was nasty, but he doesn’t seem like a bad person,” thought Piecrust. “I don’t want to scare him or hurt him.”"}, {name: "Osmund1FlameArrow", message: "“That trick with the hat he pulled on me was nasty, but he doesn’t seem like a bad person,” thought Piecrust. “I don’t want to scare him or hurt him.”"}, {name: "Osmund2FlameArrow", message: "“That trick with the hat he pulled on me was nasty, but he doesn’t seem like a bad person,” thought Piecrust. “I don’t want to scare him or hurt him.”"}, {name: "drawbridgeFlameArrow", message: "“And trap our friends on the other side?” thought Piecrust, who was not going to do something that reckless."}, {name: "Norbert0WaterJet", message: "Piecrust sprayed Norbert with water, hoping it would wake him up from the illusion, but it only made him more scared. “They’re trying to drown me!” he screamed, picking up the pace."}, {name: "DaisyandBellaWaterJet", message: "Piecrust sprayed the horses with water to help them come back to their senses, but it only made them run faster."}, {name: "magiceyeActivateMechanism", message: "To Piecrust’s great dismay, the magic eye was already active."}, {name: "magiceyeFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, hoping it would damage the eye, but it just harmlessly bounced off."}, {name: "magiceyeWaterJet", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, hoping it would damage the eye, but it didn’t do anything."}, {name: "SiegfriedFlameArrow", message: "“He might have done some questionable things working for Aurelia, but that’s not a reason to set him on fire,” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "goldencageWaterJet", message: "Piecrust tried the spell, but it fizzled out. The crystal within the cage was dampening his magic. In fact, his air bubble was growing dangerously small, too."}, {name: "goldencageFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust tried the spell, but it fizzled out. The crystal within the cage was dampening his magic. In fact, his air bubble was growing dangerously small, too."}, {name: "goldencageBanishDemon", message: "Piecrust tried the spell, but it fizzled out. The crystal within the cage was dampening his magic. In fact, his air bubble was growing dangerously small, too."}, {name: "goldencageRust", message: "Piecrust tried the spell, but it fizzled out. The crystal within the cage was dampening his magic. In fact, his air bubble was growing dangerously small, too."}, {name: "trapdoorRust", message: "The trapdoor was already rusty. Piecrust cast the spell, but it didn’t make any visible change."}, {name: "trapdoorActivateMechanism", message: "Piecrust didn’t detect any magic coming from the trapdoor specifically. He cast the spell anyway, but it didn’t do anything."}, {name: "CaptainLydia1FlameArrow", message: "Piecrust didn’t love Lydia, but he wouldn’t hurt her, especially not while she was defenceless."}, {name: "constructActivateMechanism", message: "Piecrust hesitated. Judging from its glowing eyes, the construct was already active. Piecrust did not want to provoke it in any way."}, {name: "CaptainLydia1WaterJet", message: "“No need to wake the Captain up now,” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "CaptainLydiaFlameArrow", message: "“No! She’s on our side now,” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "construct0FlameArrow", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, but it bounced off some invisible barrier surrounding the construct."}, {name: "construct0Rust", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, hoping to destroy the suit of armour, but it had no effect. “Blast it! It’s magically protected!” thought the mouse."}, {name: "construct0ActivateMechanism", message: "The construct was already active enough. Piecrust wished he knew the Deactivate spell instead."}, {name: "constructsremainsActivateMechanism", message: "Out of sheer curiosity, Piecrust cast the spell. A broken off arm of the construct twitched, but nothing else happened."}, {name: "FiggsbodyguardFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, but the flame he created was small; it flickered and disappeared after hitting the bodyguard, who continued trying to kill Lydia."}, {name: "Figgsbodyguard0FlameArrow", message: "The woman was unconscious. There was no need to attack her."}, {name: "Figgsbodyguard0WaterJet", message: "Piecrust did not want to wake up the unconscious bodyguard."}, {name: "daggerFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust cast the spell at the dagger, hoping to heat up the metal and force the bodyguard to let go of it, but the flame he summoned was too small. It hit the blade and disappeared."}, {name: "horneddemonFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust shot a fire arrow, but the demon shrugged the spell off. “Your puny magic is nothing compared to the fires of hell!” it said."}, {name: "horneddemonWaterJet", message: "Piecrust cast the Water Jet spell, but the water instantly evaporated when it hit the demon. “The flames of hell cannot be doused with water!” yelled the creature."}, {name: "TheodoreRust", message: "In some rare cases, the Rust spell was not the correct choice. Theodore felt this was one such case."}, {name: "TheodoreFlameArrow", message: "Casting a combat spell on himself was a terrible idea."}, {name: "TheodoreWaterJet", message: "Getting wet would not protect Theodore from the transformation."}, {name: "TheodoreAirBubble", message: "Theodore’s pressing problem was not a lack of air."}, {name: "TheodoreBanishDemon", message: "Theodore was not a demon, neither did he want to banish himself."}, {name: "TheodoreActivateMechanism", message: "A spell that only worked on ancient mechanisms would not help Theodore."}, {name: "goldencage0FlameArrow", message: "Piecrust wasn’t sure what would happen if he hit the powerful magic-enhancing crystal with a fire spell, and he did not wish to learn."}, {name: "Lydia3FlameArrow", message: "“No! She’s on our side now,” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "alertbanditsFlameArrow", message: "Piecrust’s magic was a little stronger near the dig dite, but he couldn’t dream of defeating two bandits with it fast enough not to alert their master."}, {name: "stoneplateActivateMechanism", message: "Piecrust cast the spell, but the plate didn’t budge. “A common, non-magical mechanism,” thought the mouse, disappointed."}, {name: "CaptainLydia9FlameArrow", message: "“No! She’s on our side now,” thought Piecrust."}, {name: "greymouseFlameArrow", message: "“That’s far too drastic,” thought Piecrust."}]>> <</widget>>

<<if hasVisited("Willowbrook Cemetery")>><<set _movecemetery to "Exit the chapel [->Willowbrook Cemetery]">><<else>><<set _movecemetery to "Exit the chapel">><</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Piecrust remembers a spell") != true>><<goto "Piecrust remembers a spell">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if hasVisited("Open Coffin")>>\ <<partfullname>> was inside the cemetery chapel. Rosalinda was standing in the middle of the room, frozen with fear. <<object "Three Light’s Chosen">> were blocking her way out. Their leader had his <<object "longsword">> pointed at Rosalinda. <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> was inside a small brick building. It must have originally been a cemetery chapel – there were faded paintings of saints decorating the walls, and a decrepit <<object "statue of an angel">> under a round, stained glass window. Now the building served as a shed; damaged coffins and loose boards were piled everywhere. <<if hasVisited("Hide in coffin")>>There was a <<object "shut coffin">> in one corner. It had a large hole in the side, where a loose knot had been pushed out.<<else>>There was one <<object "new coffin">>, open and empty, in a corner.<</if>> <<include "BodyParts">> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Open Coffin")>>\ <<link _movecemetery>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust’s mouse instincts were telling him to run away, but he fought against them. He would not abandon his friend.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link _movecemetery>><<makepopuptext "" "“I have to get Rosalinda out of that coffin first!”, thought Piecrust.">><</link>> <<elseif $piecrustav>>\ <<link _movecemetery>><<makepopuptext "" "“First, I should put myself back together”, thought Rosalinda.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart != "piecrust" && $activepart != "rarm">>\ <<link _movecemetery>><<makepopuptext "" "“I can’t leave now!” thought Rosalinda. “The gravediggers would see me and get scared. Even worse, they could attack me with a shovel. Or tell the Chosen about me.”">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link _movecemetery>><<moveto "Willowbrook Cemetery">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if hasVisited("Open Coffin")>> <<elseif $piecrustav>>\ <<link "Crawl through the hole in the coffin [->Inside the Coffin]">><<moveto "Inside the Coffin">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Crawl through the hole in the coffin [->Inside the Coffin]">><<makepopuptext "" "“I don’t want to stay trapped here!” thought Rosalinda. “I must find Piecrust!”">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

The simple wooden coffin was new and empty. The lid was slid off, one of its sides resting against the floor. <<link "Hide in the coffin">><<goto "Hide in coffin">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

<<set $partsbutton to true>>\ Rosalinda lay down in the coffin and reached for the lid, but she wasn’t fast enough. The door creaked. “Nasty weather, ain’t it,” a hoarse voice uttered. The two men shuffled into the building. She put down her arm and lay motionless, hoping they would ignore her. But it wasn’t her lucky day. “What are you staring at, you oaf?” the hoarse voice said angrily. “Give me the flask.” “It moved, Thomas,” another voice replied. “I saw the damn skeleton move.” “Skeleton?” The men approached the coffin and started at Rosalinda from above: two bearded faces underneath two dirty hats. “What is a skeleton even doing here?” asked Thomas, raising his lantern. “Tired of your old grave, you poor devil?” “I don’t care,” the other gravedigger said. “I saw it move. And it’s wearing those wizard robes. What if it’s alive and wants to steal our souls? I’m not staying here.” Thomas scratched his beard. His eyes grew wider as fear finally caught up with him. “We should tell the Chosen,” he said. “Did you hit your head, or something? I don’t want anything to do with them. I’m going home.” Rosalinda felt a gush of relief. It seemed like the men would leave her alone, after all. “Well, I’m going to the Chosen,” said Thomas. “I don’t want this thing turning up at my house.” He put the lid on the coffin and started hammering in nails. “Just in case,” he grunted. Rosalinda could only lie quietly as the man trapped her inside the wooden box. As soon as Thomas finished nailing the lid, the men left the chapel. They seemed shaken. And Rosalinda’s mood wasn’t much better. <<link "Continue" "Hide in coffin 2">><</link>>

<center>Menu <<button "Back to game" $return>><</button>> <<button "Settings">><<script>>UI.settings()<</script>><</button>> <<button "About" "About">><</button>> <<button "Restart Game">><<run Engine.restart()>><</button>> </center>

The city of Greywall was half-asleep under a heavy cover of clouds. It was getting dark. The rain softly pattered on the rooftops and made the cobbled streets glisten. A figure in a red robe, hood pulled down, was hurrying down the wet streets, taking great care to avoid the occasional patrols of Light’s Chosen. It was February, and a chilly wind was blowing, but the lone traveller didn’t shiver in spite of their light clothes. Outside the city gates, they headed towards the cemetery – a hilly area covered with patches of snow and dotted with headstones. The rain died down. Clouds parted and moonlight illuminated the cemetery, the grey gravestones, and the willows by the nearby stream. The figure reached into their pocket and carefully took out a small brown mouse, then placed it on the ground. “Looks like we’re alone,” said the mouse. He stretched, then smoothed his whiskers. “No wonder, in this terrible weather. Let’s get down to work, Rosalinda.” The figure pulled off the hood, revealing a skull with empty sockets. “Right,” she said. “I’m quite sure my grave is here, somewhere.” “I can go this way, and you’ll go that way,” suggested the mouse. “It will be quicker.” “Good idea. Thanks, Piecrust. I appreciate that you came with me. I know it may not sound important, but I really want to have… some proof. Proof that I was a real person.” “You ARE a real person, Rosalinda. Gustav just reanimated your bones. Your mind is, and has always been, your own.” Rosalinda grinned at her companion. “I’ll call you if I find anything,” promised the mouse and scampered towards the old side of the cemetery, disappearing among moss-covered gravestones and tangled bushes. <<link "Continue" "Intro2">><</link>>

Rosalinda turned towards the other side. In front of her, there was a building – it could be a shed, or a decrepit chapel. Its door was standing ajar. She wondered if she had ever been here while alive, and if she had family members buried somewhere in the cemetery. She could not remember. She got lost in thoughts and almost jumped when she heard footsteps. Someone was coming! Two men, one carrying a lantern, entered through the cemetery’s gate. “Gravediggers,” she realised. She had to hide. She slipped into the building and quietly closed the door. A moment later, she realised the sounds of footsteps were getting closer. <<link "Continue" "Cemetery Chapel">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was <<if $activepart == "body">>trapped <</if>>inside the coffin. The <<object "lid">> was nailed shut<<if $nailsrusted>>, but the nails securing it in place were corroded through<</if>>. <<if $knotpushed>>There was a sizeable hole in the side of the coffin, letting in the slightest hint of dim evening light, tinted by the stained glass windows of the chapel.<<else>>It was very dark inside. Rosalinda could barely move. Her left arm was pressed against the side of the coffin. She had a little more room on the right, where she could feel a large <<object "knot">> in the side of the coffin.<</if>> <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && not $nailsrusted>>\ <<= either("“I feel a bit silly for getting stuck in here” admitted Rosalinda. “Please, can you use some spell to free me?”", "“I’m working on freeing you, Rosalinda” promised Piecrust.", "“I think I heard shouting in the distance, Piecrust” said Rosalinda worriedly.", "“How did that spell go again?” wondered Piecrust nervously. “I-I’m sure I can cast it. It’s one of the first I’ve ever learned.”")>> <</if>> <<include "BodyParts">> <<if $activepart == "rarm" && $knotpushed || $activepart == "piecrust" && $knotpushed>>\ <<link "Crawl through the hole [->Cemetery Chapel]">><<moveto "Cemetery Chapel">><<if $piecrustav != true>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda focused her consciousness on her detached arm. Moving on its own, the arm grabbed the edge of the hole and crawled out of the coffin.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\

She was trapped in a small coffin, with barely enough space to move. She tried to push on the lid, but Thomas did his job well. The lid wouldn’t budge. “If only Piecrust was here!” she thought. Her friend, a wizard trapped in the body of the mouse, could surely free her with his magic. But she had to let him know she was trapped. She discovered she could move one of her arms freely when she pressed against the opposite side of the coffin. And she could see a large, loose knot on her right side. Wiggling around, she took her right arm out of her cloak’s loose sleeve. She could detach it and transfer her consciousness into it. That was step one of her plan. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "Inside the Coffin">><</link>>

<<partfullname>> brushed <<if $activepart == "body">>her<<else>>its<</if>> fingers against the knot in the wood. It was large, the size of a fist, and seemed loose. <<link "Push out the knot">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> pushed the knot and it fell out, leaving an empty hole in the side of the coffin. “It’s big enough for my arm to fit through!” thought Rosalinda with relief. “Now I must find Piecrust.”">><<set $knotpushed to true>><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Among the Brambles")>><<set _movebrambles to "Crawl into the thicket [->Among the Brambles]">><<else>><<set _movebrambles to "Crawl into the thicket">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ The <<object "Willowbrook Cemetery">> lay on a hill, between the city walls and a winding stream. Gravestones and mossy crypts dotted the snowy ground. Leafless willows were swaying in the wind. One side of the cemetery, where the gravestones were the oldest and the most damaged, was overgrown with <<object "thick brambles">>. On the opposite side, on top of the hill, stood the old chapel. A path led towards the <<object "cemetery gate">>. <<include "BodyParts">> <<link "Go into the chapel [->Cemetery Chapel]">><<moveto "Cemetery Chapel">><</link>> <<link _movebrambles>><<moveto "Among the Brambles">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if not $piecrustav>>\ The brambles formed an almost impenetrable wall of tangled branches and thorns. As her arm crawled through the bushes, Rosalinda felt glad she didn’t have flesh or skin. Deep inside the thicket, there was Piecrust. Apparently, the mouse was trying to get his paws on a frozen berry hanging from one of the branches. A puffed up <<object "blackbird">> was defending the berry, pecking at Piecrust, who tried to approach from this and that side, but wasn’t fast enough to avoid the bird’s beak. <<switch visited()>><<case 1>>\ “It’s you! Perfect timing!” exclaimed Piecrust when he saw Rosalinda’s arm. “Will you please take care of this pesky avian for me? There is something very important it won’t let me reach.” <<case 2>>\ Piecrust made a few steps towards the berry, but ran back when the blackbird screamed at him. <<case 3>>\ “Please, will you scare it away?” asked the mouse. “To help you find your grave, I’m going to need energy!” <</switch>>\ <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> was inside an almost impenetrable thicket of brambles. The angry blackbird has left, and all was quiet in the thicket. <</if>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<if $piecrustav>>\ <<link "Go out of the thicket [->Willowbrook Cemetery]">><<moveto "Willowbrook Cemetery">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Go out of the thicket [->Willowbrook Cemetery]">><<makepopuptext "" "“I must make Piecrust follow my arm, or my body will remain stuck in the coffin” thought Rosalinda. “Oh, why must he be so obsessed with food?”">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "Piecrust">>Some mouth-watering blackberries were hidden among the thorny branches. A little dried up and frozen, sure, but still delicious. Piecrust wished he had the time to properly take care of them<<else>>The leafless brambles were thick, tangled and thorny. On the branches, there were a few dry blackberries, which survived until February<</if>>.

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust wasn’t going to leave without his friend<<else>>"I can’t leave my body behind!" thought Rosalinda<</if>>.

<<if $activepart == "Piecrust">>The cemetery filled Piecrust with unease, mainly because he could not stop thinking about his student-turned-evil-necromancer digging up the graves. Still, that was a thing of the past, and now he was determined to help Rosalinda in her search.<<else>>The cemetery was empty and desolate under the grey February skies. There was no sign of the two gravediggers anywhere<</if>>.

The blackbird was staring at Piecrust with its orange-rimmed eye. It seemed like it wanted to pluck the blackberry from the branch, but was being constantly distracted by the mouse. Whenever Piecrust approached, the bird screamed and attacked. <<link "Scare the bird away" "Scare blackbird">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

<<set $piecrustav to true>><<set $piecrustloc to "Among the Brambles">>\ Rosalinda’s arm crept towards the blackbird. When the bird noticed a strange, spider-like creature approaching, it clucked and jumped back. The arm reached towards it; the bird escaped from the thicket and flew away, complaining loudly. “Thank you very much, Rosalinda,” said Piecrust, then stuffed the blackberry into his mouth. “Ou ah a gheat fhend. Oooh. Thish ish delishoush.” He chewed and swallowed, his face expressing pure bliss. The arm started making frantic gestures, first shaking a finger, then pointing in a direction. “Could be a little more juicy,” muttered Piecrust. “Sorry. What is the matter?” The arm grabbed his tail and started pulling. The mouse realised something was wrong. “Are you in trouble? Hold on, I’m coming!” <<link "Continue" "Among the Brambles">><</link>>

<<run $spells.push("Rust")>>\ Piecrust ran into the chapel and looked around. He heard knocking coming from a coffin in a corner. “Rosalinda?” A muffled voice answered: “I’m trapped, Piecrust!” “How… How did you get inside?” Rosalinda explained. “Oh, that’s terrible!” cried the mouse. “If they told the Chosen, a patrol will be here any moment. What should we do? What should we do?” “You’re a wizard, Piecrust! Don’t you know a spell that could free me?” Piecrust took a few deep breaths. “You’re right. I’m a wizard. I can handle this. Let me think, let me think… Spell of opening… Chant of breaking…” he muttered to himself, scratching his head with both paws. “I can’t remember anything! I’m useless! Oh–wait! I think I have something… at the tip of my tongue…” Piecrust can cast spells! Open his “Item & Spells menu”, select a spell and click an object in the room to cast the spell on it. <<link "Continue" "Cemetery Chapel">><</link>>

<<if $nailsrusted>>\ The nails in the coffin’s lid were already corroded by Piecrust’s spell. Casting it again wouldn’t change anything. Now, a strong push was required to move the lid. <<else>>\ <<set $nailsrusted to true>>\ Piecrust pointed at the coffin and recited the words of the spell. A cloud of orange light appeared around the coffin. Wood creaked as the rapidly rusting nails expanded. When the light disappeared, the nails were corroded through. “You did know the right spell!” exclaimed Rosalinda. “Indeed! The nails are rusted – can you push the lid now?” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" $return>><</link>>

Most of Rosalinda’s skeletal body was nailed shut inside that coffin. <<if $nailsrusted>>\ The nails securing the lid were rusted through. A strong push could move the lid. <<else>>\ The coffin’s lid was secured in place with iron nails. <</if>>

<<if $nailsrusted>>\ The nails in the coffin’s lid were rusted through. <<link "Push the lid">><<run Dialog.close()>><<if $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>><<goto "Open Coffin">><<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust gave the lid a contemplative look, then decided he wasn’t going to make a fool of himself.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda pushed with her one arm and slightly lifted the lid, but could not move it to the side. “I think I need both arms to do this”, she thought.">><</if>>\ <</link>>\ <<else>>\ The gravediggers had nailed the lid of the coffin shut. No matter how hard <<partfullname>> pushed, it would not move. <</if>>\

<center>A game by Agnieszka Trzaska QA testers: Jade Amanda Walker Onno Brouwer Doug Egan Deborah Sherwood Dee Cooke Cover art by Mayalin (www.artstation.com/brokaciarz) <<button "Back to Menu" "Menu">><</button>></center>

<<set $bodyav to false>><<set $activepart to "piecrust">>\ Rosalinda moved the lid with both hands, moving the heavy lid to the side, producing a grating noise punctuated by the popping of the rusty nails breaking. But Piecrust’s ears detected another sound. Footsteps, and the clang of armour. “They’re coming! Run!” he squeaked<<if $piecrustloc == "Inside the Coffin">> and jumped out of the coffin<</if>>. The lid fell on the stone floor. Rosalinda, finally free, sprung up and looked around. The sounds approached rapidly. It seemed like going out through the door was no longer an option. Before she could decide if breaking the stained glass window would be excusable under the circumstances, three men burst into the chapel. Two were wearing armour and red surcoats of the Light’s Chosen, and carrying swords. The third one, the youngest, was dressed in a tunic and holding a lantern. “Good evening,” said Rosalinda faintly. <<link "Continue" "Open Coffin2">><</link>>

The door opened and Rosalinda ran skull-first into something giant and immovable. She only saw a glint of metal before she bounced and crashed onto the floor. “Destroy the abomination, Demon Crusher!” ordered the officer. Rosalinda reached with her hand, searching for the hat. Was Piecrust safe? Maybe she could toss the hat through the open door and… A giant figure stood over her, casting a shadow. It was almost as wide as it was tall, and barely fit in the door. It was wearing a shiny cuirass and metal gauntlets. “Miss… Miss Rosalinda?” The figure spoke in a booming voice, while kneeling down and carefully picking Rosalinda back up. “Tekla?” The skeleton looked up at the blue ogress. “What are you doing? Kill it NOW!” demanded the commander. “Is it mind-controlling you?” “You are the Demon Crusher?” Piecrust crawled out of his prison and stared at Tekla with amazement. “Master Piecrust! You’re here, too! Well, yes, they call me the Demon Crusher, because, well – I feel a little sorry about what happened, but the demon was misbehaving. I could not let it hurt the knights.” The ogress looked around and blinked. “Where is the evil monster, sir?” she asked the commander. “Have you defeated it already?” <<link "Continue" "Captured2">><</link>>

Upon hearing the officer’s frantic explanation, Tekla shook her head. “Excuse me, sir, but this cannot be right. Miss Rosalinda is a friend. Her looks might have scared you, but...” The two knights started turning purple. Osmund bent over in a fit of coughing. “...but she’s the loveliest, most polite skeleton ever. And Master Piecrust – he’s a great wizard, even though he looks like a mouse. You see, it’s all because of Master Gustav, who...” “Enough!” shrieked the commander. “You know the Captain’s orders, Demon Crusher. These things… must be destroyed!” “You were not listening, sir! They are not evil. We should let them go.” “Maybe the Demon Crusher is right, sir?” said Osmund. “I mean… she has holy powers. She would detect real evil for sure.” “Have you both lost your minds?!” “Well, if we can’t let them go, why don’t we take them to Captain Lydia and explain everything?” suggested Tekla. “She will have to free them when she learns about that time they saved Grey-” The commander raised his hand, interrupting her. “Have it your way, ogre. But if they escape… you will be held responsible.” “I won’t escape,” promised Rosalinda. The officer looked at her grimly and nodded. “Me neither,” said Piecrust. He tried to climb onto Rosalinda’s shoulder, but was unceremoniously picked up by the tail by the other knight. Soon, the small procession left the cemetery and headed back to Greywall. <<link "Continue">> <<set $bodyav to true>><<set $activepart to "body">><<moveto "Prison Cell">><<set $piecrustloc to "Evidence Room">><<set $piecrustav to false>><<run $inventory.delete("hoodedcloak")>> <</link>>

<<if $nailsrusted>>\ The nails in the coffin’s lid were already corroded by Piecrust’s spell. Casting it again wouldn’t change anything. Now, a strong push was required to move the lid. <<else>>\ <<set $nailsrusted to true>>\ The iron nails were not visible from inside the coffin, but Piecrust knew they were there, and believed his magic could reach them. He pointed at the lid and recited the words of the spell. A cloud of orange light appeared, blinding him for a moment. Wood creaked as the rapidly rusting nails expanded. “You did know the right spell!” exclaimed Rosalinda. “Indeed! The nails must be rusted – can you push the lid now?” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" $return>><</link>>

<<= either("The three Chosen hadn’t noticed Piecrust. Their leader was pointing his sword at Rosalinda. When she tried to say something, he barked at her to stay silent. “Just you wait, abomination!” added the other knight. “The Demon Crusher will grind you into dust!”. Only the youngest of the Chosen looked like he wanted to talk to Rosalinda, but was afraid to do so in the presence of the other two.", "“We won’t let dark magic take over Greywall!” shouted the leader of the Chosen. “You will be destroyed!” Rosalinda flinched. “These saintly knuckleheads are going to hurt her if I don’t do something!” thought Piecrust.")>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<switch visited()>><<case 1>>They took away Rosalinda’s clothes and locked her in a <<object "prison cell">>, inside a poorly-lit room.<<default>><<partfullname>> was in a poorly-lit room, locked in a <<object "prison cell">>.<</switch>> There were several cells next to hers, each one with thick iron bars. Only one other cell was occupied, by a <<object "sickly woman">> curled up on the stone floor. <<object "Novice Osmund">> was sitting on a stool outside of Rosalinda’s cell. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<if hasVisited("OsmTrial")>>\ <<link "Wait for the trial to start" "Trial Starts">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<link "Exit the cell">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda’s body was too big to squeeze between the iron bars.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Exit the cell">><<makepopuptext "" "“Could you, please, not escape?” asked Osmund politely. “I’ll be in a heap of trouble if you do.” Rosalinda apologised and withdrew her arm back into the cell.">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Mouse Hole")>><<set _movemousehole to "Go into the hole behind the cabinets [->Mouse Hole]">><<else>><<set _movemousehole to "Go into the hole behind the cabinets">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Citadel Corridor East")>><<set _movecorridor to "Go south into the corridor [->Citadel Corridor East]">><<else>><<set _movecorridor to "Go south into the corridor">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if hasVisited("Escape from Cage") != true && $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust was locked in a <<object "wire cage">> in the Order’s evidence room.<<else>><<partfullname>> was in the Evidence Room.<</if>> The room was small, cramped and smelled musty. The numerous <<object "chests and filing cabinets">> were all locked. <<object "Piles of papers">> were stashed on tables.<<if hasVisited("Escape from Cage")>> Among the paper towers, there was a <<object "rusty wire cage">>.<</if>> Almost everything was covered in dust. The door to the corridor was open. <<if hasVisited("Meet cat") == true && hasVisited("catmarble") != true>>A shadow of a round head with pointy ears betrayed the presence of a <<object "cat">>, waiting outside.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ \ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Escape from Cage") != true>>\ <<link _movecorridor>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was still locked inside the cage.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Meet cat") != true>>\ <<link _movecorridor "Meet cat">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("catmarble") != true>> <<link _movecorridor>><<makepopuptext "" "“That nasty cat is still waiting outside!” said Piecrust to himself, shuddering at the thought. “I have to take care of it first.”">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link _movecorridor>><<moveto "Citadel Corridor East">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $mouseholefound and $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link _movemousehole>><<moveto "Mouse Hole">><</link>> <</if>>

The swordsmen stepped back. Their companion shone light on Rosalinda. “They were right!” he gasped. One of the swordsmen, a burly man with long whiskers, pointed his weapon at Rosalinda. The insignia on his shoulders identified him as a patrol commander. “Prepare to die, creature of darkness!” he shouted. “Oh, no,” sighed Piecrust. The skeleton put up her hands, showing she was unarmed. “Please,” she said. “Let me go. I won’t cause any trouble.” The commander took a step back. “Don’t you try casting any spells, foul lich!” “It – she – doesn’t seem hostile,” said the youth with the lantern. “Maybe we can ta–” “Hold your tongue, Novice Osmund!” growled the officer. “You there, undead – you’re no match for us. Just you wait. The Demon Crusher will be here in a moment, and then – it’s over for you!” The three men surrounded Rosalinda. The commander pointed his sword at her. It seemed, though, he was afraid to step forward and strike. Piecrust, unnoticed, hid in a corner of the room. His mind was racing. He had to save Rosalinda and escape. He shuddered when he heard slow, rumbling footsteps. Whoever the Demon Crusher was, they were approaching. <<link "Continue" "Cemetery Chapel">><</link>>

Piecrust focused. He fuelled the magic energy flowing through him with anger at the injustice committed by the Chosen. The cage creaked. The metal wire rusted, bending and breaking in places. <<link "Continue" "Escape from Cage">><</link>>

The cage was made of thin iron wire and intended for keeping small animals. <<if not $corntaken>>\ There were a few kernels of corn in one corner of the cage. They hardly smelled of anything and were unappetising, though probably edible. <<link "Take the corn">><<run Dialog.close()>><<set $corntaken to true>><<set $itempiecrust to "corn">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust stuffed his mouth full of corn. He did not want to immediately eat it, but having some food rations seemed like a good idea.">><</link>> <</if>>

<<if hasVisited("Escape from Cage") != true>>\ There was no time to go through the Order’s papers… but Piecrust wanted to do that anyway. “There might be something useful in there. Something that will help Rosalinda and I escape,” he thought. “Once I’m out of this cage, I have to take a look.” <<elseif $spells.includes("FlameArrow") != true>>\ “Maybe there’s something useful in this pile of papers?” wondered Piecrust. <<link "Search the papers" "Learn Flame Arrow">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>\ <<else>>\ Piecrust did not want to waste any more time going through the Order’s papers. Especially that reading human-sized writing made his head spin. <</if>>

<<if hasVisited("Citadel Corridor West")>><<set _movecorridor to "Squeeze under the double door [->Citadel Corridor West]">><<else>><<set _movecorridor to "Squeeze under the double door">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ Piecrust was in one of the many corridors of the Citadel. The door to the Evidence Room was to the north. To the west<<if hasVisited("Guards Leave")>>, there was a large <<object "double door">><<else>>, a large <<object "double door">> was guarded by two <<object "Chosen">><</if>>. To the east, the corridor stretched far, leading to the <<object "main courtyard">>. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<link "Go north through the door [->Evidence Room]">><<moveto "Evidence Room">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Guards Leave")>>\ <<link _movecorridor>><<moveto "Citadel Corridor West">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link _movecorridor "Guards Leave">><</link>> <</if>>\

Piecrust scampered forward, eager to leave the room and start searching for Rosalinda. He almost reached the door when a shadow moved on the other side. One with a round head and pointy ears. A cat! Piecrust turned around and ran back as fast as he could. He climbed the table and hid behind some papers. He had nearly walked right into the claws of a mouse-killer! He waited with bated breath, observing the door, but the cat didn’t come into the room. “Maybe it hasn’t heard or smelled me,” thought Piecrust. “Maybe it’s just resting in a spot it likes.” Still, leaving the Evidence Room was out of the question with the cat right outside. <<link "Continue" "Evidence Room">><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ “Can I ask you a few questions?” Osmund was startled when Rosalinda spoke. He looked at her, thought for a moment, and nodded. “I guess you can. They said nothing about speaking with the prisoners.” <<default>>\ “I have a few more questions, novice Osmund,” said Rosalinda. “Su-sure. If this helps…” <</switch>>\ <<link "“What is going to happen to me now?” asked Rosalinda." "OsmTrial">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("OsmTrial")>>\ <<link "“Will I get a lawyer?”" "OsmLawyer">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "“Just in case, I’m not an evil lich,” said Rosalinda." "OsmExplain">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("OsmExplain")>>\ <<link "“What ‘trouble in the city’ were you talking about?” asked Rosalinda." "OsmTrouble">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "“Tell me about yourself, Osmund. How did you join Light’s Chosen?”" "OsmHimself">><</link>> <<link "“Who is this woman in the other cell?”" "OsmPossessed">><</link>> <<link "“What will happen to Piecrust?” asked Rosalinda worriedly." "OsmPie">><</link>> <<link "“How do you know Tekla? And why do you call her the ‘Demon Crusher’?”" "OsmTekla">><</link>> <<link "“That’s all I wanted to talk about,” said Rosalinda. “Thank you for answering my questions.”" "Prison Cell">><</link>>

Piecrust pointed at the officer’s sword and started reciting the spell. Rosalinda turned towards him. “Please, don’t!” The surprised mouse stopped chanting. With a hissing sound, the spell fizzled. “This would only convince them we’re a threat,” explained Rosalinda. “We should not fight…” “An evil familiar!” shouted the officer. “Don’t let it escape!” Piecrust squeaked and tried to run away, but Novice Osmund jumped at him and covered him with his woollen hat. The hat started to move frantically and Piecrust’s muffled voice came through the wool. “I think it demands to be released, sir,” informed Osmund, picking up the hat and holding it like a bundle. “It seems to imply it’s a respected wizard. Maybe we should…” The two knights laughed. “Lies. You’re so easy to fool, Osmund! Don’t listen to the creature, just dispose of it.” Osmund looked at them with terror. “But, sir…” Then heavy footsteps thundered on the chapel’s stairs. Rosalinda stopped thinking and lunged forward. The two knights swung their swords. She ducked; the blades clashed above her. “Stop this thing!” yelled the commander. She grabbed the hat. The novice let go of it and fell back. She ran for the door, ready to ram anything that stood in her way. “Fear not, sir! I’m here!” boomed a voice on the other side of the door. <<link "Continue" "Captured">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

The rusty wires fell apart when Piecrust squeezed between them. Once outside of the cage, he took a deep breath and looked around. He needed a plan. Rosalinda was probably locked away in a cell, in a different part of the Citadel. Piecrust roughly remembered the layout of the Order’s headquarters. When he was a wizard, Captain Lydia sometimes called him in for consultations. “She will probe Rosalinda for information, trying to learn about the necromancer who raised her, then dispose of her,” he thought. “I have to free Rosalinda before this farcical ‘trial’ takes place!” Just then, he heard footsteps. He dashed and hid underneath the cabinet. A Chosen entered the room. He looked at the empty, rusty cage and cursed loudly, then ran back out. “Oh, yes – the mouse has escaped,” thought Piecrust. A moment later, his satisfied expression faded. “Wait – does this mean the trial has already started?” <<link "Continue" "Evidence Room">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ Piecrust was in a mouse hole. It was small, but quite nice, and had a bed of straw in the middle. <<if $mousefed>>There was a <<object "grey mouse">> in the hole, lying half asleep on the straw. It paid no attention to Piecrust.<<else>>There was a <<object "grey mouse">> in the hole. It was holding <<object "a marble">> in its mouth, rubbing it with its paws and desperately trying to bite into it, all while eyeing Piecrust with distrust.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<link "Go out of the hole [->Evidence Room]">><<moveto "Evidence Room">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Escape from Cage") != true>>\ Piecrust could not take a closer look at the chests and cabinets, as he was locked inside the cage. <<else>>\ The wooden chests and cabinets were all locked. They were used to securely store evidence the Light’s Chosen had gathered on various people… and other beings. <<if not $mouseholefound>><<set $mouseholefound to true>>Piecrust made a quick round around the cabinets, curious if he could find a way inside. “The Order might be keeping some magic items here”, he thought. But the furniture was solid – there were no cracks or holes through which he could squeeze in. The same could not be said about the wall behind the filing cabinets. There was a hole in it, and it smelled of mice.<</if>> <</if>>\

<<set $itempiecrust to "none">><<run $rooms["Evidence Room"].items.push("marble")>><<set $mousefed to true>>\ Piecrust spat out the corn and stepped back, inviting the grey mouse to eat. The kernels were a little less dry after he held them in his mouth, and he started to wonder if he should give away all of them – if he should give them away at all. But before he could eat a single one, the grey mouse pounced at them. It dropped the marble, which rolled away, and devoured the corn ravenously. “You’re welcome,” said Piecrust. The grey mouse ignored him. Piecrust’s stomach rumbled, but he forced himself to focus. This wasn’t the time to think about food. “Now, where did that marble go?" he wondered. <<link "Continue" $return>><</link>>

<<if $mousefed>>\ The grey mouse opened its eyes for a moment and sent Piecrust a look which said, “I guess you’re not a bad mouse after all”. <<else>>\ <<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ “Good evening,” said Piecrust. The grey mouse sent him an angry look and went back to biting on the marble. It clearly was very hungry and wary of anyone who might try to steal its prize. “You can’t eat that, you know,” said Piecrust, trying to be helpful, but the grey mouse ignored him. <<default>>\ The grey mouse continued its futile attempts at eating the marble. It eyed Piecrust suspiciously, its fur raised. <</switch>> <</if>>\

<<set $itempiecrust to "none">>\ “Let’s see if this works!” thought Piecrust. He dropped the marble on the floor and gave it the biggest push he could. It rolled towards the door and out of the room. The shadow on the doorstep moved. Piecrust heard the sound of paws pattering and claws scratching. The beast ran down the corridor after its escaping “prey”. “Hey, who’s there?” a woman’s voice asked in a distance. “Naughty kitty! You’re not supposed to be here! Come on. I have no time to play with you. They just told me they’re ready to start the trial of that lich, you know.” The cat started meowing. Then, Piecrust heard footsteps going away, and the meowing grew quieter and quieter, until it stopped completely. <<link "Continue" "Evidence Room">><</link>>

Piecrust eyed the rusty cage with contempt. “They were overzealous locking me in, and foolish thinking it would stop me,” he thought to himself. <<if not $corntaken>>\ There were a few kernels of corn in one corner of the cage. They hardly smelled of anything and were unappetising, though probably edible. <<link "Take the corn">><<run Dialog.close()>><<set $corntaken to true>><<set $itempiecrust to "corn">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust put the corn in his mouth. He did not want to immediately eat it, but having some food rations seemed like a good idea.">><</link>> <</if>>

When they arrived at the Citadel, Piecrust was separated from Rosalinda and put in a cage, then left alone in a cramped room. “They’re treating me like an item!” he though, pacing around the cage. “They didn’t even give me decent food! No prisoner should be subjected to this!” He looked with disgust at the few pieces of dry corn in the corner of the cage. “And Tekla believes it will be all right! She thinks Lydia will let us go!” Piecrust was sure it would be quite the opposite. He used to know Captain Lydia, head of the Greywall chapter of Light’s Chosen. “I’ll figure out a way to get out of here,” he thought. “And I’ll take Rosalinda with me. Tekla should probably come as well…” <<link "Continue" "Evidence Room">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<if $teklashouts == true && hasVisited("Rosalinda hears Tekla") != true>>\ <<goto "Rosalinda hears Tekla">>\ <</if>>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if hasVisited("Open Courtroom Door")>>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>Rosalinda was in the courtroom. She tried to fight off the <<object "Chosen0">> and dodge their blades.<</if>> <<object "Lydia">> was yelling at the guards to arrest <<object "Tekla1">>, but they were too afraid to approach the ogress, who waved Rosalinda’s arm around like a weapon. On the dais, <<object "Councilman Figg">> slumped in his chair, and the <<object "clerk">> hid behind her <<object "pile of papers">>. <<if $activepart == "Piecrust">>Piecrust was sitting on Tekla’s shoulder. He desperately tried to come up with a plan that would help Rosalinda break free from her attackers.<</if>> The audience on the benches was frozen in shock. <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "larm">>\ Rosalinda’s left arm was on the courtroom floor, trying to stay in the shadows and out of sight. <<else>> Rosalinda was in the courtroom – a tall, dark room with oak panelling. She was in the dock, flanked by two armed Chosen.<</if>> The <<object "courtroom door">> was locked<<if hasVisited("Rosalinda hears Tekla")>>. The <<object "two guards0">> moved a few steps away from it.<<else>>; <<object "two guards">> were standing on both sides in case a lock was not enough to stop the defendant from fleeing.<</if>> About a dozen or so Chosen, Osmund among them, were sitting on benches in the back of the courtroom, watching the trial. In front of Rosalinda, on a dais, three people were seated: <<if $using || $casting || $activepart == "larm">><<object "Captain Lydia">><<else>><<link "Captain Lydia" "Talk to Lydia">><</link>><</if>>, <<object "Councilman Figg">> and the <<object "court clerk">>, half-hidden behind a <<object "pile of papers">>. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<if $activepart == "body">><<link "Exit the dock">><<if hasVisited("Open Courtroom Door")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda attempted to break free and run towards Tekla, but two Chosen were attacking her with swords, pushing her back every time she tried to climb over the wooden barrier.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "As soon as Rosalinda moved, two crossed blades blocked her way. She stepped back and remained still.">><</if>><</link>><</if>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ Piecrust was in the Citadel’s kitchen, a large room with a row of wood-burning stoves and furnaces. There was a <<object "back door">> on the far side of the room. <<if hasVisited("Start Fire")>>In one corner of the kitchen, two <<object "helpers">> were making dinner, turning a <<object "spit">> over fire and peeling turnips. <<if hasVisited("Albert Arrives") != true>>On the opposite side, near the door, <<if $using || $casting>><<object "Tekla the Ogress">><<else>><<link "Tekla the Ogress" "Tekla Conversation">><</link>><</if>> was kneading dough for a pie.<</if>> <<else>>There was a large <<object "hunk of meat">> on a spit in the biggest of the furnaces. <<object "Tekla">>, <<object "two girls">> and a <<object "young man">> were standing around it. The man was trying to set the <<object "firewood">> in the furnace on fire, but without much success. The others were watching him closely, attempting to give advice.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<link "Climb the stairs to the north [->Citadel Corridor West]">><<moveto "Citadel Corridor West">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Kitchen")>><<set _movekitchen to "Go down the stairs [->Kitchen]">><<else>><<set _movekitchen to "Go down the stairs">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ Piecrust was in a corridor inside the Citadel. The corridor led east towards a double door, under which Piecrust could easily squeeze, and west towards the <<if hasVisited("Albert Arrives")>>courtroom<<else>><<object "door to the courtroom">><</if>>, where Rosalinda’s trial was being held. <<if hasVisited("Rosalinda hears Tekla")>> <<object "Tekla0">> was standing in front of the <<object "door to the courtroom">>, which she hadn’t been able to open.<<elseif hasVisited("Albert Arrives")>><<set $teklashouts to true>> <<object "Tekla0">> was banging at the <<object "door to the courtroom">>, asking to be let in.<</if>> To the south, a short flight of stairs led down into the kitchen area, from which lovely smells were wafting. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<link "Follow the corridor east [->Citadel Corridor East]">><<moveto "Citadel Corridor East">><</link>> <<link _movekitchen>><<moveto "Kitchen">><<if hasVisited("Kitchen") != true>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust scurried down the stairs towards the kitchen. Normally, he would be most interested in the lovely smells of cooking, but this time, he was looking for something – or rather someone – else. Tekla the Ogress, who had inexplicably joined Light’s Chosen, was his best bet at helping Rosalinda, and he was sure she would be in the kitchen, no matter what her official position with the Chosen was.">><</if>><</link>>

<<set $bodyparts to ["body", "skull", "larm", "rarm"]>>\ <<set $skullloc to "onbody">><<set $skullav to false>>\ <<set $larmloc to "onbody">><<set $larmav to false>>\ <<set $rarmloc to "onbody">><<set $rarmav to false>>\ <<set $bodyloc to "Courtroom">>\ Rosalinda sat down on the floor and waited. “If this is a fair trial, I’ll just tell them my story, and they should let me go,” she thought. “But I fear the verdict may have already been decided.” Eventually, two armed Chosen arrived. “It’s time,” one of them said, more to Osmund than to Rosalinda. The woman in the next cell gave a high-pitched laugh as they led Rosalinda away. Osmund shuffled after them. They followed winding corridors and stairs until they reached the courtroom. They guided Rosalinda in, locked the door behind her and put two guards in front of it. Rosalinda was put in the dock, flanked by two more armed guards. In front of her, three people were seated on a dais – a court clerk surrounded by piles of papers, a nervous, exquisitely dressed plump man and a sinewy woman with grey hair and an eyepatch. “Where is the rodent?” asked the one-eyed woman. “Go and fetch it, now.” “This stern lady must be Lydia,” thought Rosalinda. The court clerk went and unlocked the door to let one of the Chosen out, then locked it again. “Let us begin,” said Captain Lydia, looking at Rosalinda. “Tell this court everything, and we will grant you a swift end.” “It’s more than you deserve anyway!” exclaimed the plump man. “True, Councilman Figg,” nodded Lydia. “But Light’s Chosen are merciful, and if it reveals its plans and accomplices, it may lead to saving many innocent souls. Look at me, creature! Who is your master? Is it one of the demons plaguing Greywall? Or the one who summoned those demons? What orders did they give you?” <<link "Meanwhile, in another part of the Citadel…" "Evidence Room Intro">><<set $piecrustav to true>><<set $activepart to "piecrust">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Talk to Osmund")>>\ “I wish it hadn’t happened, but now that we captured you, you’ll have to stand trial before Captain Lydia,” said Osmund, avoiding looking at Rosalinda. <<else>>\ The young novice looked at Rosalinda and scratched his head. He looked partly nervous, partly curious, and partly embarrassed. “You…” He cleared his throat. “You’re not an evil lich, are you?” he asked Rosalinda. <</if>>\ <<link "Talk to Osmund" "Talk to Osmund">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

The young man sighed with relief. “I thought so, but it’s good to have a confirmation. I mean, an evil lich would probably say the same thing if it was to stand trial, but… you sound like you’re telling the truth. And, I guess, if you were a lich, you would have blasted us to pieces at the cemetery. So, ummm, who exactly are you?” Rosalinda told Osmund her name, and how she was brought to life by a wizard. “I don’t know where the necromancer is now,” she added. “And I don’t remember much of my past, just that I lived in Greywall. I wanted to find out more. That’s why I went to the cemetery. I was looking for my grave.” Osmund shuddered. “I’m so sorry. It sounds like you were through a lot, and now this… But the Light’s Chosen can’t make any exceptions.” He clenched his fists. “I mean… if there was no threat at all, why would the Captain be doing this?” he said, more to himself than Rosalinda. “We can’t let the trouble in the city get any worse.” <<link "“What trouble are you talking about?” asked Rosalinda." "OsmTrouble">><</link>> <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

“There have been bad things happening in Greywall for some time. We had demons roaming the streets, and there are possessed people, like that poor woman.” Osmund nodded at the curled-up figure in the cell next to Rosalinda’s. “Captain Lydia says it’s all signs of dark magic becoming stronger. She says we must stay vigilant and fight the evil.” The novice seemed lost, not knowing what to make of it all. “No one told him how to feel about an undead who’s not hostile,” thought Rosalinda. <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("OsmPie1")>>\ “He’s supposed to stand trial with you. But I don’t think he’s dangerous – if he was, he surely would have attacked us at the cemetery.” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>> <<elseif hasVisited("OsmPie2")>>\ “I’m not sure. He was supposed to stand trial with you, but if he really is the famous wizard Theodore, this should change things. Oh, I hope he’s not angry at me…” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>> <<else>>\ “Your mouse companion? I think he’s going on trial with you. They’re probably keeping him somewhere safe.” Osmund thought for a moment. “That thing about him being a famous wizard… is that true?” <<link "“Well, he can use some magic,” admitted Rosalinda evasively, not sure if she would help or harm Piecrust by explaining the whole truth." "OsmPie1">><</link>> <<link "“He is the wizard Theodore,” admitted Rosalinda. “His own apprentice turned evil and transformed him into a mouse.”" "OsmPie2">><</link>> <</if>>\

Osmund’s face lit up. “The Demon Crusher was sent by the forces of Good to help us save Greywall!” he said. “At least that’s what I think. Not everyone agrees.” He told Rosalinda how a few days ago a night patrol he was part of stopped an ogress for questioning. “She seemed lost. She said she was looking for a new job. Our commander wanted to arrest her, because… well, you know what they say about ogres. Captain Lydia doesn’t want any roaming the streets, especially since the trouble has started. So, we were about to take her into custody when that demon appeared.” The novice told Rosalinda how they were jumped by a giant horned beast with a human body and a boar’s head. The demon wounded the patrol commander and knocked down the Chosen who tried to fight it off. “And then the ogress jumped into action! It was an amazing sight! She stood between us and the demon, beaming with holy light! She told the demon it was being very bad, and smacked it. The demon squealed and exploded into black mist – just like that! Our swords weren’t harming it at all, and she destroyed it with a single punch.” The Chosen, Osmund explained, changed their mind about the ogress and invited her to join their ranks. “Not everybody was happy about that, but the Captain said it was a special case. I’m so glad the Demon Crusher agreed! She saved my life, has holy powers, and also makes the best goulash ever!” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

“Well, there’s not much to talk about,” said Osmund, shrugging. “I’ve joined the Light’s Chosen two months ago. I wanted to help protect the city. Dark things are happening more and more often in Greywall. There are demons, and possessed, and, most often, bandits. People in my family were hurt, too. So I started training on my own, and then applied to join the Chosen. That’s pretty much it.” He was silent for a moment. “My elders always say I should fight evil with conviction, and never have doubts. But… sometimes, I just don’t know. Like when we punish merchants for selling books about magic. We arrested you, even though you weren’t attacking us. Even though the Demon Crusher vouched for you. I… I don’t know. I guess you could be deceiving me, because I’m young and naïve, but I don’t think you are.” “I’m not,” promised Rosalinda. “And I don’t blame you. I-I know how most undead are.” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

“You’ll be put on trial,” said Osmund. “Captain Lydia has the authority to try cases involving dark magic or heresy, so it will all take place here, in the Citadel. She will ask you some questions and try to determine if you are guilty.” “Of what?” “Of… dark magic and heresy.” The novice looked away. “I – I hope they’ll listen to you,” he said after a moment of silence, sounding sorry. She nodded. She hoped so, too, but her hopes weren’t high. “How long until the trial?” she asked. “It should start soon. The Captain doesn’t like to wait with a case like this on hand.” “Looks like I can’t do anything about the situation right now,” thought Rosalinda. “I’ll just have to wait for this trial…” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

Osmund pondered the information for a while. “Well, I hope Captain Lydia will let him go,” he eventually said. “I don’t know what our official stance is on magical animals, but that Piecrust doesn’t seem evil to me.” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

“The wizard Theodore?” asked Osmund. “Oh dear. Everyone thought he was dead! And… oh, I hope the Captain clears everything up with him.” The novice looked so worried Rosalinda asked if everything was all right. “Well,” he replied, “something happened and… Master Theodore may be unhappy about that. But, umm, tell me – he, I mean Theodore, isn’t evil, is he? He doesn’t summon demons?” Rosalinda quickly ensured Osmund it was quite the contrary. “I’ve seen him banish a demon once or twice,” she said. “Then I wonder… Oh, sorry. It’s nothing. I shouldn’t talk so much.” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

“Um – no. Not really,” said Osmund. “Sorry. We’re not doing it anymore. We used to hire a lawyer to represent the accused, but he would always just tell them to admit everything and didn’t bother with actually defending anyone. It seems to me he just didn’t like them, because he is said to be a great defence lawyer over in the city court. Anyway, Captain Lydia decided she didn’t want to pay him any longer.” “Great,” said Rosalinda. Not that she had high hopes for a lawyer, or thought one could do much to help her. It seemed the crime she would be tried for was being a skeleton, and she didn’t think there existed a lawyer good enough to convince the Chosen otherwise. “So, it will just be your Captain judging me?” she asked. “Yes, basically. Oh, and Councilman Figg is going to show up for sure as well.” “Councilman Figg?” “You haven’t heard of him? Oh, right – I guess you have been dead for a long time. Councilman Philemon Figg is a successful businessman, and an elected official, who deeply cares about our city. He donates generously to the Chosen and helps us track down various evil threats. Personally,” Osmund lowered his voice to a whisper, “I think he’s a little panicky. Calls us to his estate at least twice a week to deal with some curse placed on him by the competition, or with mysterious noises in the basement. Often, it’s just his imagination, but he accurately tipped us about possessed and demons a few times. He attends every trial in the Citadel to make sure we properly deal with the danger.” <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

Osmund looked at the woman. She was shivering in the corner of her cell, muttering to herself while covering her face with both hands. “That poor soul is a possessed,” he said. “More and more people in Greywall turn up like this. They scream about monsters no one else sees, and sometimes try to harm others – or themselves. Our elders are trying to come up with a ritual that will banish the cunning demons responsible for this, but nothing has worked so far – neither amulets, nor holy water. The best we can do is to keep the possessed locked up, for their own safety and the safety of others.” The woman jerked up her head and stared at Osmund, who flinched. She screamed “Leave me alone! Don’t eat me!” then curled up again and started crying. <<link "Back" "Talk to Osmund">><</link>>

<<= either("The two men guarding the door were armed with halberds.", "“Have you heard?” one asked guard the other. “They caught an undead monster and are putting it on trial.” The other guard shuddered. “I hate these things.” he said.", "“I hope they won’t send me to patrol Archwood” said one of the guards. “I’ve heard strange things have been going on there lately.” “I say we leave Archwood alone and take care of the city,” replied the other guard. “There’s enough trouble here.”", "“I hope they’ll find the source of the demonic possessions soon,” muttered one of the guards. “This whole thing is giving me the chills.”", "The two guards were standing in silence, watching the corridor.")>>

The spell hit the dry wood piled in the furnace. A cloud of sparks shot upwards, followed by tall flames. The young man jumped back in surprise, but soon started laughing. “Did you see that?” he asked the two girls. “Do you still think I’m holding the flint wrong?” “A very nice fire,” said Tekla approvingly. “Thank you. Let’s get to work, girls, or the dinner will be late.” The young man left the kitchen, strutting like a peacock. The two girls decided he “just got lucky”, then occupied themselves with turning the spit and peeling turnips. Tekla went into the opposite corner of the kitchen, where she started preparing dough for a pie. “Now is my chance to talk to her!” thought Piecrust. <<link "Continue" "Kitchen">><</link>>

Piecrust made sure he had an unobstructed view of the firewood in the furnace – he didn’t want to light anyone on fire, and especially not Tekla – and whispered the words of the spell. <<link "Continue" "Start Fire">><</link>>

<<if $teklatalkedto != true>><<set $teklatalkedto to true>>\ Tekla was kneading dough, humming a little tune to herself. Piecrust climbed the leg of the table and stopped in front of the ogress. “Master Piecrust?” Tekla smiled. “How kind of you to visit me here!” “Keep it quiet! We’re in trouble – I mean, Rosalinda is in trouble. We need your help!” “Miss Rosalinda? Oh, excuse me.” Tekla lowered her voice to a whisper and looked at the two kitchen helpers. They were chatting loudly and laughing. “Miss Rosalinda in trouble? But how, Master Piecrust? She is innocent. Not only innocent – she’s a hero! She saved Greywall from that nasty mirror demon – with your help, of course. Captain Lydia will surely let her go when she hears her story! Just trust in justice, Master Piecrust.” Piecrust’s mind was racing. He knew he had to convince Tekla. <<else>>\ “We need to talk about Rosalinda, Tekla,” said Piecrust. “She really is in trouble, and I need your help to save her.” “Are you sure, Master Piecrust? The Chosen promised to give her a fair trial!” <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Methods") != true>>\ <<link "“The Chosen’s methods are wrong,” he said." "Methods">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Know Lydia") != true>>\ <<link "“I have known Lydia for a long time. She won’t let Rosalinda go.”" "Know Lydia">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "Piecrust ended the conversation for the time being.">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

Piecrust hesitated. He could squeeze under the door, but the guards would surely notice him. Even if he was fast enough to not get stepped on, he didn’t want to alert the Chosen to his presence. He struggled with himself for a moment. Just when he decided saving Rosalinda was more important, and got ready to charge, the Chosen who had earlier looked for him in the evidence room came running from the direction of the main courtyard. “Have you seen the mouse?” he asked the guards, panting. “It escaped!” “A mouse?” repeated one of the guards. “Are you an idiot, or what? The magic mouse! Captain wants it to stand trial, but it escaped the cage! If I don’t find it in time… if we don’t find it, we’re in deep trouble!” “I haven’t seen a mouse, but that cat was running around here,” said the other guard. “Maybe it caught it.” “Then we’d better get the cat and hope the mouse is still breathing! Come on, quit staring and help me! Or do you think the Captain won’t be mad at you for letting the mouse escape, the cat get it, and for Heavens know what else?” The guards exchanged worried looks and, after a brief hesitation, left their post and joined the third Chosen. The whole group ran down the corridor, tripping over one another and shouting “Come here, kitty, kitty, kiiitty!” “Good,” thought Piecrust. <<link "Continue" "Citadel Corridor East">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "larm">>\ It was easy to remain unseen with everyone focused on Captain Lydia, who was constantly demanding “the answers” and “the truth” from Rosalinda. Still, the arm did not want to approach the Captain, even if her piercing gaze was fixed on the defendant. <</if>>\

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ The Captain looked at Rosalinda, determination burning in her only eye. “She looks tough, and not merciful at all,” thought Rosalinda. “Speak, monster!” demanded Lydia. “If you need time to remember everything, very well, but don’t take too long. We have other duties. It is obvious you are a creature of darkness. You have been caught sneaking around the cemetery. Apparently, you are a servant of a necromancer. Where is that necromancer?” “I can try to put up a defence, but what should I say?” wondered Rosalinda. The gazes of all the people in the courtroom made her feel uneasy. <<case 2>>\ Lydia eyed Rosalinda with anger. “Do not try our patience, creature! Speak, or your punishment will be severe!” <<default>> <<= either("“Tell me the truth, and all of it!” demanded Lydia.", "“You’re not making your situation any better by lying, creature,” said the Captain threateningly.", "“My patience is running out! Admit your guilt!” ordered Lydia.", "“What are the demons’ plans? Why are they tormenting the people of Greywall?” asked the Captain.", "“Maybe if your men roughed the creature up…” suggested Philemon Figg. “May I remind you, Councilman, that your position in this court is that of an observer?” asked Lydia. “I know how to deal with beings of black magic.”")>> <</switch>> <<if hasVisited("TrialRosalinda") != true>>\ <<link "“I am not a monster,” said Rosalinda. “My name is Rosalinda.”" "TrialRosalinda">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("TrialDemon") != true>>\ <<link "“I fought one demon and helped banish it. I don’t know about any others.”" "TrialDemon">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("TrialTekla") != true>>\ <<link "“Tekla – the one you call ‘Demon Crusher’ – trusts me.”" "TrialTekla">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("TrialPiecrust") != true>>\ <<link "“What have you done to Piecrust?”" "TrialPiecrust">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("TrialProvoke") != true>>\ <<link "“This is a travesty of justice,” said Rosalinda." "TrialProvoke">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "Rosalinda stayed silent for the time being." "Courtroom">><</link>>

Rosalinda explained who she was: A citizen of Greywall, brought back to life against her will. “I did not want to be resurrected, but now I don’t want to be destroyed,” she said, her voice trembling slightly. “I did nothing wrong.” “Do you think this court will buy your lies, filthy creature?” exclaimed Councilman Figg. His face puffed up and turned red. “The city, my city, is under attack by forces of darkness, and you are one of their minions. I received reports from trusted sources about undead creatures meeting with demons at night! You’re here to torment the citizens, to burn and destroy!” Rosalinda protested her innocence, but she could see the people were not willing to listen – at least not her judges. <<link "Continue" "Talk to Lydia">><</link>>

“You fought a demon?” Captain Lydia raised her eyebrows. “No one is going to believe that.” Rosalinda tried to tell the court about the necromancer, and the demon which manipulated him, but Lydia cut her short. “You lie to get into our good graces. Why would an undead fight a demon? Tell us the truth. Where are those two, the demon and the warlock, now?” Rosalinda repeated that the demon was banished, and the necromancer escaped, she didn’t know where to. “I don’t think he poses danger any more,” she added. The Captain shook her head. Rosalinda could see she didn’t believe her, and was getting more and more impatient. <<link "Continue" "Talk to Lydia">><</link>>

“The matter with Demon Crusher is… complicated,” said Lydia. “You shouldn’t have accepted an ogre into your ranks!” squealed Figg and slammed his fist into the table. “The Ogress was blessed by the Light,” replied Lydia. “She has the power to destroy demons. And I am well aware of her naïve nature makes it hard for her to recognise evil sometimes. That she told us you aren’t a threat, skeleton, does not mean anything.” <<link "Continue" "Talk to Lydia">><</link>>

“Pie… crust? What are you talking about, creature?” “I mean – my mouse friend. You captured him as well. He’s actually a wizard transformed into a mouse. He didn’t do anything wrong and…” Lydia snapped her fingers. “The familiar – I forgot. Where is it? It should be on trial as well.” A Chosen in the front row of benches – Rosalinda recognised the patrol commander who arrested them – mumbled something under his breath. “It escaped its cage?” shouted the Captain. “It’s a magical creature! You were supposed to guard it, not put it in the evidence room and call it a day! Well, running around searching for a mouse would be futile. I’ll call Aurelia later to deal with it. Or maybe a cat will get it first.” Rosalinda gasped. “Cats!” she thought. “Poor Piecrust! Oh, but he’s too smart to get caught by a cat. He’ll be fine, I’m sure of it!” <<link "Continue" "Talk to Lydia">><</link>>

Piecrust hid under a cabinet when he heard someone running towards the Evidence Room. The patrol commander, who arrested them, entered. He looked at the empty, rusty cage and cursed loudly. He grabbed the cage and threw it onto the floor, smashing it to pieces. He then left, his face pale. “Oh, yes – the mouse has escaped,” thought Piecrust. The commander would be held responsible, and that was all right by him. <<link "Continue" "Courtroom">><</link>>

Piecrust heard someone enter the evidence room. Then, a male voice cursed, something smashed on the floor, and the person left the room in a hurry. “Looks like my escape has been discovered,” thought Piecrust, not without satisfaction. “Well, they won’t catch me now.” <<link "Continue" "Courtroom">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "larm">>\ <<if $itemlarm == "courtroomkey">>\ Having stolen the key, the arm had no reason to approach the clerk again. <<else>>\ The arm slowly crept towards the dais and hid under the clerk’s desk. <<link "Steal the key">><<run Dialog.close()>><<makepopuppass "" "Steal the key">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ The clerk, a young woman, was furiously taking notes of everything being said in the courtroom. The top of her head barely stuck out from behind the pile of documents, but Rosalinda could clearly see her left side, with the key to the courtroom dangling from her belt. <<link "Talk to the clerk">><<makepopuptext "" "“The defendant shall address the court directly,” said the woman, not even looking at Rosalinda.">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Open Courtroom Door")>>\ The councilman, slumped in his chair, was watching the scene in the courtroom with fear and fascination. <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "larm">>\ “I wonder how he would react to bony fingers grabbing his leg,” thought Rosalinda. “But it would likely lead to my arm getting captured.” <<else>>\ The Councilman was a middle-aged man, short, plump and balding. He watched the trial, sometimes interjecting his suggestions. Judging from his remarks, he mostly wanted to see Rosalinda destroyed. <<link "Talk to the Councilman">><<makepopuptext "" "“How dare you talk to me, creature?” shrieked Figg. “I am Councilman Philemon Figg, and I’ll make sure Greywall is freed from your loathsome kind!” Captain Lydia shook her head in silence.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<run $bodyparts.delete("larm")>>\ <<set $larmloc to "Courtroom">>\ <<set $larmav to true>>\ “You have already decided I am guilty, based solely on what I look like,” she continued, looking straight at Lydia. “A trial like this cannot end in justice being delivered.” “How dare you!” One of the men flanking Rosalinda smacked her with his armoured fist. The force of the strike made her collapse onto the floor with a horrible, rattling noise. Her left arm, which was more loose than the right arm, disconnected. “Enough!” ordered Lydia. “Help the creature up. We must not destroy it until we had learned the truth about its master’s plans. The safety of Greywall is at stake.” The guards picked Rosalinda up. Nobody seemed to have noticed her missing arm, which slowly, quietly crawled out of the dock. <<link "Continue" "Talk to Lydia">><</link>>

“The Chosen may have good intentions, but sometimes they can’t see facts from behind them,” said Piecrust. “Think about how they treated you earlier, just because you’re an ogre. Think of all the people arrested for owning books or hanging out in the streets after dark – you must have seen a fair share of them.” Tekla scratched her head. <<if hasVisited("Know Lydia")>>\ “Oh… it’s horrible, but you may be right, Master Piecrust. Sometimes, the Chosen just arrest people without much evidence – I mean, I’m sure they’re trying to do the right thing and protect the city, but… I believe you can be too eager. Miss Rosalinda, now that I think of it, is a bit scary-looking and I wouldn’t be surprised if they wanted to lock her up for good, just in case.” “Worse,” said Piecrust. “They will kill her. We must stop them, Tekla. They are holding the trial right now – we have to get inside the courtroom and break Rosalinda free. We can explain everything later.” “But no one is allowed to… oh, of course, Master Piecrust! If Miss Rosalinda is in danger, we must help her. Only… I was waiting for someone. And the dinner is not even ready… But Miss Rosalinda’s safety is more important. I will speak in her defence! I am one of Light’s Chosen myself, and to me, it means helping the innocent!” A glint of determination appeared in Tekla’s eyes, but it was immediately replaced with doubt. “What if they don’t listen?” “They won’t, but we can escape. I’ll come up with a plan,” promised Piecrust. He sounded more confident than he really was. He started to contemplate different scenarios, but not a single one seemed good to him. He snapped out of his focus when someone knocked on the back door – three quiet, rapid taps. <<link "Continue" "Albert Arrives">><</link>> <<else>>\ “I’m not sure, Master Piecrust. The Chosen protect the city. I’m not blaming them for not liking me at first – I know I look scary to humans. But… you are not wrong. Sometimes, they can be a bit too strict. But they wouldn’t do anything contrary to the evidence that comes up during a trial, would they? I mean, it’s impossible to find Miss Rosalinda guilty!” <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Know Lydia") != true>>\ <<link "“I have known Lydia for a long time. She won’t let Rosalinda go.”" "Know Lydia">><</link>> <<link "Piecrust ended the conversation for the time being." "Kitchen">><</link>> <</if>>\

“I have known the Captain for a long time. They used to summon me for ‘independent consultations’ in cases concerning dark magic. It was back when I was… not a mouse, of course. And of all the cases I have witnessed, only a handful of defendants were found not guilty. And they were all humans. Do you really think she will let an undead go?” Tekla seemed torn. <<if hasVisited("Methods")>>\ “Oh… if you’re telling the truth, Master Piecrust, and I don’t think you would lie, then Miss Rosalinda is in terrible danger! I mean – I’m sure the Captain is trying to do the right thing and protect the city, but if she doesn’t look at the evidence, then it’s very bad! Do you really think she would lock up Miss Rosalinda in prison for… forever?” “Worse,” said Piecrust. “She will have her killed. We must stop this, Tekla. They are holding the trial right now – we have to get inside the courtroom and break Rosalinda free. We can explain everything later.” “But no one is allowed to… oh, of course, Master Piecrust! If Miss Rosalinda is in danger, we must help her. Only… I was waiting for someone. And the dinner is not even ready… But Miss Rosalinda’s safety is more important. I will speak in her defence! I am one of Light’s Chosen myself, and to me, it means helping the innocent!” A glint of determination appeared in Tekla’s eyes, but it was immediately replaced with doubt. “What if they don’t listen?” “They won’t, but we can escape. I’ll come up with a plan,” promised Piecrust. He sounded more confident than he really was. He started to contemplate different scenarios, but not a single one seemed good to him. He snapped out of his focus when someone knocked on the back door – three quiet, rapid taps. <<link "Continue" "Albert Arrives">><</link>> <<else>>\ “I… just don’t know, Master Piecrust. I mean – a trial is a trial. Justice may seem harsh sometimes, but maybe all these people you were talking about were in fact guilty? And Miss Rosalinda clearly is innocent – I admit Captain Lydia is very strict, but even she will have to let Miss Rosalinda go when she finds no evidence of any wrongdoing!” <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Methods") != true>>\ <<link "“The Chosen’s methods are wrong,” he said." "Methods">><</link>> <<link "Piecrust ended the conversation for the time being." "Kitchen">><</link>> <</if>>\

Tekla quietly opened the door, letting in a haggard figure. The old, bearded man was clutching a dirty hat with both hands. The kitchen helpers looked towards the door, then immediately turned their backs at the scene, pretending not to have noticed. “Hello, Tekla,” said the man. “Albert?!” Piecrust squeaked in surprise. What was the former servant of Gustav the necromancer doing here? “Albert’s family is in trouble, and I’m helping a little,” explained Tekla. “I met him on a patrol, and thought I could give him some food every day. We cook so much, something always goes to waste.” “Is that a talking mouse?” asked Albert with suspicion. Piecrust and Tekla quickly explained everything. “Wait, so you’re Master Gustav’s former master?” Albert examined Piecrust, raising an eyebrow. “And it’s because of you I no longer have a job? No, don’t be sorry. I didn’t like being a necromancer’s assistant, anyway. So much hassle, and running away from Chosen, and the pay wasn’t even that good. So, where is that skeleton lady who helped you?” “She’s in big trouble, Albert,” said Tekla. “The Chosen are trying her for… well, I don’t know what for, but Master Piecrust is sure they will find her guilty. I have to go and help her, the problem is, we don’t have an escape plan – but Master Piecrust is working on one. So, I’m sorry, but you’ll have to come back later for the food. The roast isn’t even ready, because we took the longest time lighting the fire.” <<link "Continue" "Albert Arrives 2">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Albert Arrives")>>\ “We can escape through this door, but first, we have to free Rosalinda,” thought Piecrust. “I hope Albert will keep his promise. And now, I should probably follow Tekla.” <<else>>\ The wooden door was locked. When Piecrust came close, he could feel cold, wet, somewhat pungent air coming through the cracks in its surface. “It must lead to a back street!” he realised. “And someone is dumping kitchen refuse right outside. Plus, it’s raining again. Good. The rain and mist will hide our escape.” <</if>>

Albert spat on the floor. “Don’t tell the Chosen about our plan,” said Piecrust. He started to worry, not knowing what to expect from the man. “Tell the Chosen? Are you stupid or what, Mister Mouse? They would arrest me just like that for ‘stealing’ the food. No, I won’t rat on you. I’ll help you.” Piecrust looked at him doubtingly. “How? And why?” “Why? Because Tekla is the kindest person in the world. If she’s on your side, I’m too, just to repay some of my debt. As to how – well, I reckon you’ll need fast transport. My brother Norbert is a coach driver. I’ll go fetch him. Once you’ve freed the skeleton lady, escape through the back door. We’ll be waiting in the alley with the coach.” A dreadful feeling came over Piecrust – he saw armed knights in pursuit, and an overturned cab in a ditch. But he didn’t have a better idea. “Let’s do this, Albert,” he said. The old man nodded, then put on his cap and left. “All right,” said Piecrust, his heart racing. “With this part of the… um… plan taken care of, let’s find a way into the courtroom.” Tekla nodded and wiped her hands in her apron. “I’m going there right now, Master Piecrust.” With that, she ran out of the kitchen. <<link "Continue" "Kitchen">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Albert Arrives")>>\ The door wouldn’t budge, not even with Tekla pounding it with her massive fists. <<else>>\ Piecrust examined the door. It was a good, solid door, fitted in its frame so well even a spider could not crawl underneath. “Why must Lydia treat courtroom security so seriously?” wondered Piecrust, realising his job had been made even more difficult. <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Rosalinda hears Tekla")>>\ Tekla was standing in front of the courtroom door, looking confused and defeated. “I don’t understand, Master Piecrust,” she complained. “Why won’t they let me in to see Miss Rosalinda?” <<else>>\ <<= either("“Please, let me see Miss Rosalinda!”", "“I just want to make sure she’s all right!”", "“Miss Rosalinda is NOT GUILTY!”")>> the ogress shouted. Either they couldn’t hear her on the other side of the door, or – more likely – they chose to ignore her. <</if>>

Inside the courtroom, Rosalinda heard Tekla shouting and hammering on the door. So did everyone else. “What came over that ogress?” asked Lydia, frowning. “Somebody, go there and calm her down. She’s disturbing the court proceedings.” All the Chosen in the room looked away, pretending they were not there. The door handle moved. “Please, Captain!” Tekla’s muffled voice pleaded. “You must set Miss Rosalinda free!” “You should teach your ogre some manners,” said Councilman Figg. Lydia sent him a look that made him shrink back in his chair. “I’ll deal with her later,” she uttered. Finally, Tekla gave up, unable to open the massive door. “Back to the matter on hand,” said the Captain. “Start answering my questions, skeleton, or else –” “Tekla’s here,” thought Rosalinda. “If I let her in, she’ll help me out of this mess!” <<link "Continue" "Courtroom">><</link>>

<<set $itemlarm to "courtroomkey">>\ The arm waited for the clerk to stop scribbling and look up, then reached and pulled on the key. It was heavy and slipped out of its grasp, dropping to the floor with a clang. Thankfully, Councilman Figg just sneezed loudly. The arm quickly grabbed the key. <<link "Continue">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Rosalinda hears Tekla")>>\ The door was locked, but nobody was guarding it – the two Chosen had moved away when Tekla started banging on it. <<else>>\ The door was locked and guarded by two Chosen. <</if>>\ <<if $itemlarm == "courtroomkey" != true>>\ Rosalinda could see the key to the courtroom, hanging from the belt of the clerk seated on the dais.<</if>>

<<if hasVisited("Rosalinda hears Tekla")>>\ “Tekla is on the other side of the door. She will help me, I’m sure!” thought Rosalinda. Her left arm crawled towards the door. No one noticed; everyone’s eyes were fixed on Captain Lydia, who shouted her questions at Rosalinda, louder and louder, as if it could help her get answers. “Maybe it does, sometimes,” thought Rosalinda and stayed stubbornly silent. Meanwhile, her arm managed to climb up the door and, with great effort, insert the key and turn it. Then it pressed the handle, and the heavy door slowly swung open. <<link "Continue" "Open Courtroom Door">><</link>> <<else>><<makepopuptext "" "“I wish I could do something about these guards” thought Rosalinda. “I won’t be able to open the door with them right in front of it! If only Piecrust, or Tekla, were here to help me...”">><<set $using to true>><<goto "Courtroom">> <</if>>\

Piecrust could hear the key turning in the lock. He climbed onto Tekla’s shoulder and shouted straight into her ear: “It’s unlocked! Go in!” The ogress nodded and flung the door open. “Please, Captain!” she shouted, running into the courtroom. “This is a misunderstanding!” People gasped. “Remove this beast!” demanded Figg, pounding his fist on the table. Lydia coldly stared at the ogress. “You have disobeyed my orders,” she said. “Guards! Arrest her!” The two men with halberds looked at each other, then slowly proceeded towards Tekla. The ogress picked up Rosalinda’s arm, which dropped down to the floor when she pushed the door, and held it like a club. “Please, I don’t want to fight you! Just let me help my friend!” The guards stopped. “Get her! That’s an order!” yelled Lydia. Rosalinda saw the halberds pointed at Tekla. “Leave her alone!” She tried to jump out of the dock, but was struck with a sword by one of the Chosen. Her teeth rattled. She made another desperate attempt to escape and was hit again. “That’s it! The trial’s over!” screamed Lydia, her face red. “Destroy the skeleton! Arrest the ogress!” Piecrust, perched on Tekla’s shoulder, watched the scene unfold with a feeling of terror. <<link "Continue" "Courtroom">><<set $piecrustloc to "Courtroom">><<set $activepart to "piecrust">><<set $larmav to false>><<set $larmloc to "none">><<set $itemlarm to "none">><</link>>

A large, messy pile of papers was placed on the table in front of the court clerk.

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Just punch them, Tekla!” squealed Piecrust. “But – but I could hurt them!” <<else>>\ The ogress was holding back the two guards, who pointed their halberds at her, but weren’t eager to approach and attack. She tried to plead with them, assuring them it was all a terrible misunderstanding. <</if>>\

The two Chosen were flanking Rosalinda, preventing her from escaping the dock. <<= either("Rosalinda kicked one of the men in the shin. He groaned, but did not stop attacking her.", "One of the Chosen stabbed Rosalinda with his sword. The blade passed between her ribs.", "One of the Chosen struck Rosalinda and managed to dislodge her right arm. The arm quickly crawled up and reattached itself, making the attacker scream with terror.", "“Die, monster!” screamed one of the men.", "“What are you doing?” yelled Captain Lydia. “Stop playing with it!”", "Rosalinda could hear Tekla screaming: “Hold on, Miss Rosalinda! I’m coming! Please, could you let me pass?”")>>

<<if $location == "On the Roof of the Coach">>\ <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.delete("club")>>\ <<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push("fieryclub")>>\ Piecrust cast the spell on the club. The wood did not catch on fire easily, but the end of the club started smouldering. “What are you doing?” yelled Norbert, looking over his shoulder at the flickering flames. “Improvising,” replied Piecrust. “We need better weapons to deal with the Chosen, so I’m providing.” “You’ll burn down the coach!” “I do not think so. In this weather, it’s going to go out on its own soon. Rosalinda? Hurry up and make use of this!” <<link "Continue" $return>><</link>> <<else>>\ Piecrust looked at the club and shook his head. “I could turn it into a fiery weapon, but the coach would catch on fire, too,” he thought. “Too many flammable materials in here. Doing it outside would be better. The roof is wet from the rain.” <<link "Continue" $return>><</link>> <</if>>\

“I hope this works,” thought Piecrust and sent a fiery arrow right into the pile of papers. They immediately caught on fire, bursting with a red plume. An acrid smell filled the courtroom. People started screaming and running for the door. “Douse the fire! Quick! Don’t let them…” Lydia’s orders were interrupted by a fit of coughing when she inhaled the thick black smoke. <<link "Continue" "Escape Courtroom">><</link>>

“Here, Miss Rosalinda!” Tekla reached and grabbed Rosalinda, then started to run. Everyone followed her through the door, escaping the blaze. “Quickly, Tekla!” squealed Piecrust. “To the kitchen, and let’s hope Albert is as good as his word!” The ogress hurried on, and Rosalinda followed. They could hear Lydia, shouting at her subordinates. It seemed like they had brought the fire under control and were ready to pursue the escapees. “Thank you for coming to my rescue,” said Rosalinda. “Don’t thank us just yet,” replied the mouse. “We’re still being chased.” “Stop right there!” He looked back and saw Lydia, waving a sword she must have taken from one of the guards. The Captain was leading a group of armed Chosen. “Now that they know you won’t fight them, they will never stop following us,” said Piecrust to Tekla. “I – I am sorry! I would like to – but they are my friends, too!” They reached the kitchen, the pursuers closing in on them. “Don’t be a fool, Tekla!” shouted Lydia. “Destroy the skeleton, and you’ll be forgiven!” She almost caught up to them. Piecrust saw a smile of satisfaction appear on her face. “You’re too slow. It’s over!” Tekla was breathing heavily. With one final push, she reached the back door of the kitchen and flung it open. <<link "Continue" "Escape Citadel">><</link>>

<<set $bodyloc to "Inside the Coach">><<set $activepart to "body">>\ <<set $piecrustloc to "Inside the Coach">><<set $piecrustav to true>>\ <<set $larmav to true>><<set $larmloc to "Inside the Coach">>\ The trio got out of the kitchen, into a cobbled backstreet. It was dark, and drizzle was dripping from the sky. “I’m so glad you came to help me,” said Rosalinda as they ran. “If they catch us – please, Tekla, just hand me over. I don’t want you to be hurt protecting me. And I’m not afraid of death!” “How can you say that, Miss Rosalinda?” asked Tekla. “I would never…” “What’s taking them so long?” squeaked Piecrust. “Curses and counterspells, they were supposed to be here!” The Chosen were closing in on them, running down the street with drawn weapons. Suddenly, a clatter of hooves could be heard. “What on– Look out!” yelled Lydia and lunged into a nearby doorway. The Chosen, screaming, cursing, and slipping on the wet cobblestones, tried to get out of the way of a black coach, which was thundering down the narrow street. An old man with bushy white whiskers and a wide-brimmed hat was driving the coach, cracking his whip. A lantern, hanging at the front of the coach, was swinging wildly, making light and shadow dance on his face. “Go, Daisy! Go, Bella!” he shouted at his horses. “Apologies!” He laughed as he drove past the Chosen, knocking some of them over. He slowed down as he was passing by the escapees. “Get in!” The door of the vehicle was flung open. Albert grinned at them from the inside. “Sorry we’re late, but convincing Norbert took me some bloody time!” Tekla grabbed Rosalinda and pushed her inside, then squeezed into the coach herself. Norbert shook the reins and they hurried on. “Saddle the horses!” shouted Lydia. “Go after them!” <<link "Continue" "Coach Intro">><</link>>

<<= either("“Do I have to wait for the trial much longer?” asked Rosalinda. “I can’t tell. I’m sorry” replied Osmund. “But I don’t think it will be long.”", "Rosalinda sat down in her cell and waited, wondering when the trial was going to begin. “I just hope Piecrust is safe,” she thought. “I think they locked him up as well. Maybe he had better luck escaping than I did?”", "Rosalinda waited and waited, but the trial still wasn’t starting. “I wonder what kind of preparations they have to make,” she thought, imagining dozens of guards and mages with counter-necromancy spells.")>>

<<set $itempiecrust to "none">><<run $rooms["Evidence Room"].items.push("marble")>><<set $mousefed to true>>\ “Here. Maybe you want to trade your marble for this?” Piecrust spat out the corn and stepped back, inviting the grey mouse to eat. The kernels were a little less dry after he held them in his mouth, and he started to wonder if he should give away all of them – if he should give them away at all. But before he could eat a single one, the grey mouse pounced at them. It dropped the marble, which rolled away, and devoured the corn ravenously. “You’re welcome,” said Piecrust. The grey mouse ignored him. Piecrust’s stomach rumbled, but he forced himself to focus. This wasn’t the time to think about food. “Now, where did that marble go?" he wondered. <<link "Continue" $return>><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("On the Roof of the Coach")>><<set _movehatch to "Climb through the hatch [->On the Roof of the Coach]">><<else>><<set _movehatch to "Climb through the hatch">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a coach, which shook violently as it raced down the streets of Greywall. Hooves were thundering. Norbert was shouting at the horses from the box. <<object "Tekla2">> was huddled on the back-facing seat, chin on knees. On the opposite seat, there was plenty of space next to <<object "Albert">>, who was reading a <<object "worn out book">>. The carriage had <<object "doors with windows">> on both sides, a small <<object "rear window">> and a <<object "hatch">> in the roof. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>> <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link _movehatch>><<moveto "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>> <</if>>\

“There you go, Miss Rosalinda,” said Tekla, placing Rosalinda’s left arm on the worn cushioned seat of the coach. “I – I’m sorry I waved it around so much. I hope I didn’t hurt you.” “Not at all,” replied Rosalinda. “What do we do now?” The coach rattled down the street, shaking and jumping. Albert looked through a small rear window. “They won’t give up,” he said grimly. Rosalinda moved over to take a look as well and saw a group of Chosen on horseback. “We had a head start, but they’re faster,” said Piecrust. “The coach is too slow with all of us inside.” “It’s me, Master Piecrust,” said Tekla. “I’m too heavy. I’ll get out.” “Nonsense!” protested Rosalinda. “We’re not leaving you. We’ll slow them down somehow.” <<link "Continue" "Inside the Coach">><</link>>

Albert was reading his small book, his eyes glued to the pages. “I’m sorry,” he muttered. “It’s just that I’m nervous. And reading always helps me calm down. Blast it – I can barely focus with all this shaking! I’m going to get sick!” <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>\ “We’ll figure something out,” said Rosalinda. “And – thank you, Albert. I didn’t think so when I first saw you, but you’re very kind. You helped save me… and you don’t flinch when I’m close.” “There’s not enough space here to flinch,” replied the old man. “Besides, I got used to… things when I worked my previous job. Anyway, skeleton lady, save your thanks for when this is over.” <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust" && $spells.includes("WaterJet") != true>>\ “What are you reading?” asked Piecrust curiously. “Oh, it’s just some old book Master Gustav gave me. He wanted to throw it away, so I took it.” <</if>>\

Tekla looked sad and afraid. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “I betrayed the Chosen, didn’t I, Master Piecrust?” she asked and sniffed loudly. She wiped her eyes with her apron. “And they trusted me, and all…” “You did what you had to do,” replied the mouse. “Now, stop crying. We’re not out of the woods yet. If they catch up to us, we may have to fight.” <<else>>\ “I’m so glad we rescued you, Miss Rosalinda,” said Tekla. “But I don’t understand why the Chosen wanted to destroy you in the first. place. Maybe it’s a case of mistaken identity? Maybe there is an evil lich in Greywall? Oh… I should be helping them catch it, but I don’t think they’ll ever let me work for them again. And what about my poor kitchen girls? I already miss them so!” She hid her face in her hands and started sobbing quietly. <</if>>\

<<if $teklatalkedto != true>><<set $teklatalkedto to true>>\ Tekla was kneading dough, humming a little tune to herself. Piecrust climbed the leg of the table and stopped in front of the ogress. “Master Piecrust?” Tekla smiled. “How kind of you to visit me here!” “Keep it quiet! We’re in trouble – I mean, Rosalinda is in trouble. We need your help!” “Miss Rosalinda? Oh, excuse me.” Tekla lowered her voice to a whisper and looked at the two kitchen helpers. They were chatting loudly and laughing. “Miss Rosalinda in trouble? But how, Master Piecrust? She is innocent. Not only innocent – she’s a hero! She saved Greywall from that nasty mirror demon – with your help, of course. Captain Lydia will surely let her go when she hears her story! Just trust in justice, Master Piecrust.” Piecrust’s mind was racing. He knew he had to convince Tekla. <<else>>\ “We need to talk about Rosalinda, Tekla,” said Piecrust. “She really is in trouble, and I need your help to save her.” “Are you sure, Master Piecrust? The Chosen promised to give her a fair trial!” <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Methods") != true>>\ <<link "“The Chosen’s methods are wrong,” he said." "Methods">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Know Lydia") != true>>\ <<link "“I have known Lydia for a long time. She won’t let Rosalinda go.”" "Know Lydia">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "Piecrust ended the conversation for the time being." "Kitchen">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was on the roof of the coach, which was lit by a lamp mounted in the front. <<if $activepart == "body">>She had to fight to keep her balance as the vehicle shook and bounced.<<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>He clung low to the surface to avoid being blown away.<<else>>It grabbed a railing on the side to avoid falling off.<</if>> There were wooden seats on the roof, and a <<object "hatch">> leading inside. The box was lower, and only <<if $using || $casting>><<object "Norbert">><<elseif hasVisited("Defeat Leon")>><<link "Norbert" "Norbert Conversation 2">><</link>><<else>><<link "Norbert" "Norbert Conversation">><</link>><</if>>’s head was reaching above the roof. <<if hasVisited("Leon appears") && hasVisited("Defeat Leon") != true>>\ <<object "Knight Leon">> was riding left of the coach team, trying to block the horses with his own mount and pulling on <<object "Bella">>’s bridle. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Leon appears")>>The remaining <<else>>Their<</if>> <<object "pursuers">> were following the coach relentlessly, galloping down the <<if hasVisited("Defeat Leon")>><<object "dirt road">><<else>>narrow <<object "cobbled street">><</if>>. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go inside [->Inside the Coach]">><<moveto "Inside the Coach">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("On Bella’s Back")>>\ <<link "Climb on Bella [->On Bella’s Back]">><<if hasVisited("Defeat Leon")>><<makepopuptext "" "With the knight defeated, there was no need to do that.">><<elseif $activepart == "body">><<makepopuptext "" "“If only I could get there, and get rid of that knight,” thought Rosalinda. “But I’ll just fall down and break into pieces if I try standing on a running horse’s back. Perhaps my arm could do it?”">><<elseif $activepart == "larm" && $itemlarm != "none" || $activepart == "rarm" && $itemrarm != "none">><<makepopuptext "" "“Perhaps my arm could crawl onto Bella’s back,” thought Rosalinda. “But it won’t be able to do that while holding anything.”">><<else>><<moveto "On Bella’s Back">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “So, you’re the mouse wizard?” asked Norbert when Piecrust appeared before him. “I don’t know. I expected someone… bigger. Like a huge mouse wearing a pointy hat. But never mind. As long as you know some spells to stop the Chosen, I don’t mind you being tiny.” <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<if $clubgiven>>\ “We’ve almost left Greywall! Do something to stop those pesky Chosen before they chase us all the way into Archwood!” shouted Norbert. <<else>>\ Norbert turned his head to look at <<partfullname>>. “So, you’re the skeleton we’re saving, because my brother has to repay a debt to an ogre!” he exclaimed. “Well, my girls and I could not refuse Albert. And the chance to mess with the Order’s plans. So, are you Albert’s colleague from his old job?” <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>“Uh… you could say I am,” replied Rosalinda. “Good. And do you know any magic that could blow away those pesky Chosen? Oh, wait. The mouse is the wizard, isn’t he? I don’t know where Albert finds you. Anyway, do something to stop the knights, or we’re in real trouble. Daisy and Bella can’t run like this for much longer.” <<else>>\ He laughed. “Oh, right, I forgot. You can’t talk. Well, tell the rest of yourself this: you have to help me lose the Chosen. Use magic, throw something at them, I don’t know. Because Daisy and Bella can’t run like this for much longer, and if those fellows catch up to with us, we’re in trouble.” <</if>>\ He reached under his seat, pulled out a heavy wooden club and handed it to <<partfullname>>. <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true || $activepart == "skull">>\ “Oh, but you have no arms to take it!” He put the club back under the seat. <<else>>\ <<set $clubgiven to true>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("club")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">>\ <<set $itemlarm to "club">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<set $itemrarm to "club">>\ <</if>>\ “Here. It comes in handy when driving customers through some parts of Greywall.” Club received! He laughed, as if he couldn’t be happier about the whole affair, and cracked his whip. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if $spells.includes("WaterJet") != true>>\ Piecrust climbed onto Albert’s shoulder. The old man, engrossed in his book, barely noticed. The mouse thought the book looked familiar – and he was right. He recognised his own, old copy of “Simple Water Enchantments For Novices”. He had given it to his student a long time ago. <<link "Read along" "Learn water spells">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<else>>\ Piecrust didn’t want to waste time re-reading the spells from the old book. He was sure he had them memorised. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ The book contained illustrations and descriptions of magic spells. Rosalinda could not understand any of it and, judging from how he flipped the pages back and forth, neither could Albert. He appeared engrossed in reading nonetheless. <</if>>\

Captain Lydia was leading a group of <<if hasVisited("Defeat Leon")>>six<<else>>seven<</if>> Light’s Chosen. Bent over the necks of their horses, the knights galloped after the coach. <<if hasVisited("Defeat Leon")>>\ It looked like Leon’s defeat had truly infuriated the Captain. She wasn’t yelling at the escapees any more, just staring at them with fury. <<elseif hasVisited("Leon appears")>>\ “Quit playing with them, Leon!” shouted Lydia. “Kill the horses if you have to, just stop the damn coach!” <</if>>\

The knight was riding to the left of the coach horses, pulling at their bridles in an effort to stop them. His heavy mount was pushing Bella to the right. <<= either("“Get rid of him!” screamed Norbert. “I can’t control the girls!”", "“You won’t escape justice, criminals!” boomed the knight.", "Norbert was cursing at the knight, using words <<partfullname>> had never heard before", "The other Chosen saw what Leon was doing and cheered him on, all the while trying to catch up with the coach.", "“Just give up!” screamed Leon, struggling with the panicked coach team. “It will be easier for all of us!” “Get stuffed!” replied Norbert.")>>

One knight had gotten ahead of the others – a tall man on a powerful horse. Other Chosen cheered him on as he hurried his steed, catching up with the coach. “Stop them, Leon!” ordered Lydia. “Before they leave the city!” The tall knight rode up to Bella, the left coach horse. “Get lost!” yelled Norbert and smacked him with his whip. It made no impression whatsoever on the armoured knight, who grabbed Bella’s harness and started to pull on it. The mare rolled her eyes, her head twisting to the left. The coach slowed down. Norbert put down the whip and grabbed the reins with both hands, trying to control his panicked horses. “The girls won’t listen!” he screamed, “Someone, get rid of this knight!” <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("Leon appears")>>\ “If you know some battle magic, this is the time to use it!” shouted Norbert when he saw Piecrust. <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>> <<else>>\ “So, you’re the mouse wizard?” asked Norbert when Piecrust appeared before him. “I don’t know. I expected someone… bigger. Like a huge mouse wearing a pointy hat. But never mind. As long as you know some spells to stop the Chosen, I don’t mind you being tiny.” He laughed, as if he couldn’t be happier about the whole affair, and cracked his whip. Then he turned to the left, his jaw dropping in shock. <<link "Continue" "Leon appears">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if hasVisited("Lose club 2")>>\ “You lost my club!” screamed Norbert. “I don’t know how you’re going to get rid of this knight without it, but do it, and do it NOW!” <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>> <<elseif $clubgiven>>\ “The horses are panicking! Get rid of this damned knight before we overturn!” screamed Norbert. <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>> <<elseif hasVisited("Leon appears")>> Norbert turned his head to look at <<partfullname>>. “You’re here! Good! Hurry and do something about that damned knight!” He reached under his box seat, pulled out a heavy wooden club and handed it to <<partfullname>>. <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true || $activepart == "skull">>\ “Oh, but you have no arms to take it! Do something about that, too, and quick!” He put the club back under the seat. <<else>>\ <<set $clubgiven to true>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("club")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">>\ <<set $itemlarm to "club">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<set $itemrarm to "club">>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>> <<else>>\ Norbert turned his head to look at <<partfullname>>. “So, you’re the skeleton we’re saving, because my brother has to repay a debt to an ogre!” he exclaimed. “Well, my girls and I could not refuse Albert. And the chance to mess with the Order’s plans. So, are you Albert’s colleague from his old job?” <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>“Uh… you could say I am,” replied Rosalinda. “Good. And do you know any magic that could blow away those pesky Chosen? Oh, wait. The mouse is the wizard, isn’t he? I don’t know where Albert finds you. Anyway, do something to stop the Chosen, or we’re in real trouble. Daisy and Bella can’t run like this for much longer.” <<else>>\ He laughed. “Oh, right, I forgot. You can’t talk. Well, tell the rest of yourself this: you have to help me lose the knights. Use magic, throw something at them, I don’t know. Because Daisy and Bella can’t run like this for much longer, and if those fellows catch up to us, we’re in trouble.” <</if>>\ He reached under his seat, pulled out a heavy wooden club and handed it to <<partfullname>>. <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true || $activepart == "skull">>\ “Oh, but you have no arms to take it!” He put the club back under the seat and laughed. Then he turned to the left, his jaw dropping in shock. <<link "Continue" "Leon appears">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<set $clubgiven to true>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("club")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">>\ <<set $itemlarm to "club">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<set $itemrarm to "club">>\ <</if>>\ “Here. It comes in handy when driving customers through some parts of Greywall.” He laughed, as if he couldn’t be happier about the whole affair, and cracked his whip. Then he turned to the left, his jaw dropping in shock. <<link "Continue" "Leon appears">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\

Rosalinda tightened her grasp on the left arm, which in turn tightened its grasp on the club. She had to defeat the knight. The issue was, she had no idea how to fight. She focused, considering her options. <<link "Continue" "Leon fight start">><</link>>

Rosalinda tightened her grasp on the right arm, which in turn tightened its grasp on the club. She had to defeat the knight. The issue was, she had no idea how to fight. She focused, considering her options. <<link "Continue" "Leon fight start">><</link>>

Piecrust focused. He was tired, scared and frustrated by the unrelenting chase, and he channelled those feelings into his spell. A stream of water poured from Piecrust’s tiny paws, hitting the road behind the coach, which had already been softened by rain, soaking into the dirt and creating bubbling mud. The mouse could hear the Chosen screaming, horses whinnying, and Norbert gasping. He maintained the spell for as long as he could. When his power ran out, he was breathing heavily. He looked at the dirt road, turned into a swamp. The Chosen and their horses were stuck in the mud, struggling to get out and quickly growing smaller in the distance. “You did it!” shouted Rosalinda. “I did,” sighed Piecrust with relief. Norbert turned his head to look at the mouse with quiet respect. “Now we can go to – oh, damn this!” Piecrust blinked, and then he noticed it, too. Two Chosen, riding in front of the group when he cast the spell, weren’t as stuck as he had thought. They freed themselves and were galloping after the coach once again – two mud-covered figures on mud-covered horses. One of them, glaring at Piecrust with anger, was Lydia. Norbert cursed under his breath. They were just passing a fork in the road and he was steering the coach east, but he made a sharp turn to the north. “Archwood it is, then.” he said grimly. Piecrust shivered. The coach rolled on, into the night, getting closer and closer to the mass of dark, tangled trees. <<link "Continue" "Crash">><</link>>

“Now we can escape!” said Norbert. The coach horses sped up. Behind them, some of the Chosen slowed down as they passed by Leon, who was struggling to get up. The dismounted knight angrily shook his head and pointed at the coach. Albert’s head popped out from the hatch. “We slowed them down, but this won’t be enough. They’ll catch up to us again.” “Stop crying and do something about it, then,” replied Norbert. “I’m not crying. I’m merely making an observation,” said Albert with an air of indignation, and his head disappeared back inside. The coach sped through the northern gate of the city. The two guards manning the post there didn’t even try to stop it – they just walked into the middle of the road after it passed to stare at it in surprise. They almost got trampled by Lydia and her group. The escapees and the pursuers left the lit-up streets and headed north, along a dirt road, in darkness, towards an even darker shape ominously rising in the distance. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<set $piecrustloc to "On the Roof of the Coach">> <<elseif $activepart == "larm">>\ <<set $larmloc to "On the Roof of the Coach">> <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<set $rarmloc to "On the Roof of the Coach">> <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>>

<<set $leonhp to 2>>\ Leon was unaware Rosalinda was about to strike. Without any more hesitation, she attacked. <<link "She did it slowly, trying to find a weak spot amidst all that armour." "Lose club">><</link>> <<link "She swung as hard as she could." "Leon hit">><<set $leonhp -= 1>><<set $leonhit to "The attack caught Leon off guard. The club hit his back wit a loud thud. The knight swayed in his saddle and barely managed not to fall. “Take that!” screamed Norbert.">><</link>>

<<run $inventory.delete("leftarmwithfieryclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("leftarm")>>\ Rosalinda swung her extended arm. The fiery club hit Leon’s horse in the rump. The horse whinnied, reared up and threw Leon off. The knight fell, knocking the club out of Rosalinda’s grasp, and hit the ground with the sound of a hundred iron pots and pans. His panicked mount galloped away, even though the fire had already been extinguished by the rain. “You lost my club, skeleton!” yelled Norbert. “Other then that, good job! Go, girls! To the northern gate!” <<link "Continue" "Defeat Leon">><</link>>

<<run $inventory.delete("rightarmwithfieryclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("rightarm")>>\ Rosalinda swung her extended arm. The fiery club hit Leon’s horse in the rump. The horse whinnied, reared up and threw Leon off. The knight fell, knocking the club out of Rosalinda’s grasp, and hit the ground with the sound of a hundred iron pots and pans. His panicked mount galloped away, even though the fire had already been extinguished by the rain. “You lost my club, skeleton!” yelled Norbert. “Other then that, good job! Go, girls! To the northern gate!” <<link "Continue" "Defeat Leon">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was on Bella’s back and could feel the horse’s muscles exerting underneath. Everything was shaking. Falling off seemed awfully easy. <<if hasVisited("Defeat Leon") != true>>\ <<object "Knight Leon1">> was riding alongside Bella, trying to stop the coach. His <<object "horse">> was pushing the mare, again and again. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>From his spot on Bella’s back, Piecrust could see<<else>>From its spot on Bella’s back, <<partfullname>> could reach<</if>> the <<object "buckle">> of Leon’s horse’s girth. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<link "Go back [->On the Roof of the Coach]">><<moveto "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>>

Leon’s mount was pushing against Bella, and the knight was pulling on her bridle. The coach horse trotted on, obeying Norbert’s commands, but kept shaking her head and rolling her eyes in panic. Her fear seemed to affect Daisy as well. <<if $activepart == "body">>\ “If only I could get there, and get rid of that knight,” thought Rosalinda. “But I’ll just fall down and break into pieces if I try standing on a running horse’s back. Perhaps my arm could do it?” <<elseif $activepart == "larm" && $itemlarm != "none" || $activepart == "rarm" && $itemrarm != "none">>\ “Perhaps my arm could crawl onto Bella’s back,” thought Rosalinda. “But it won’t be able to do that while holding anything.” <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ “Perhaps my arm could crawl onto Bella’s back,” thought Rosalinda. <<link "Get on Bella’s back">><<moveto "On Bella’s Back">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust looked at Bella’s bony back and hesitated. “I could jump, perhaps, and reach the knight from there,” he thought. “I just hope I won’t slip and end up turned into red paste under the hooves…” <<link "Get on Bella’s back">><<moveto "On Bella’s Back">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\

“Stop, you bloody thing! Stop!” growled Leon from underneath his full helmet. He tried to pull Bella’s head closer, but the mare struggled and pulled away. “Damn you!”

Piecrust hesitated for a brief moment, then took aim at Leon’s horse. “Sorry. I have friends to save,” he said and launched a flaming missile. It hit Leon’s horse in the rump. The horse whinnied and reared up. Piecrust could smell burning hair. Leon screamed and was thrown out of the saddle, hitting the ground with the sound of a hundred iron pots and pans. His panicked mount galloped away, even though the fire had already been extinguished by the rain. “That was a good one, Mister Mouse!” yelled Norbert. “Go, girls! To the northern gate!” <<link "Continue" "Defeat Leon">><</link>>

The saddle was secured on the horse’s back by a girth with a large metal buckle. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Unbuckle the girth">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust’s paws were too short to reach it, neither did he have enough strength.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Unbuckle the girth">><<goto "Unbuckle girth">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>

<<partfullname>> let go of Bella’s harness and reached for the end of the girth, just behind Leon’s calf. The knight, still struggling with the coach mare, did not notice. <<partfullname>> started to pull. Bella jerked and the arm fell off her back – it was now hanging from the saddle, swinging to and fro. With one final effort, it pulled the end of the girth free, then let it slide out of the buckle. Leon swayed to the left. <<partfullname>> pushed itself away with all fingers and – through sheer luck more than anything else – landed back on Bella, just as the screaming knight fell off his horse, together with the saddle. He landed on the street with a terrible clatter. His mount stopped and looked down at his master, surprised. Norbert laughed. “Nice work, skeleton!” he yelled, cracking his whip. “Go, girls. To the northern gate!” <<link "Continue" "Defeat Leon">><</link>>

“This should do the trick!” decided Piecrust, aiming at the buckle. The spell had an immediate effect. The metal buckle corroded through and shattered into pieces. Leon swayed to the left, and then slid off his horse’s back, together with the saddle. He landed on the ground with loud clatter. His mount stopped and started at the unfortunate rider with a surprised look. Norbert laughed. “That was a good one, Mister Mouse!” he yelled, cracking his whip. “Go, girls. To the northern gate!” <<link "Continue" "Defeat Leon">><</link>>

“I hoped to hide in the countryside and wait out the search, but there’s no hiding with the Chosen hot on our trail,” grumbled Norbert. “You must do something to slow them down, or even reaching Archwood won’t save us.” <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>\ “We’re going to Archwood?” asked Rosalinda. The forest north of Greywall had a bad reputation back when she was alive. They said old and dark things lingered there. “I hope not. But we have to lose the pursuit. Then I’ll drop you, Tekla and the mouse off somewhere safe and start driving around the countryside, leading the Chosen on a wild goose chase.” He chuckled. “What if they catch you?” asked Rosalinda, worriedly. “They won’t hurt two old men. We’ll say you forced us to help you with threats or magic.” Rosalinda wasn’t sure he was right, but she hoped so. <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Archwood? You’re insane,” gasped Piecrust. Norbert chuckled. “Well maybe we won’t have to go there. If we can lose them, I’ll drop you, the skeleton and Tekla off somewhere safe and start driving around the countryside, leading the Chosen on a wild goose chase.” “They’ll catch you, eventually,” pointed out Piecrust. “They won’t hurt two old men, intimidated by an ogre and a warlock into helping them. Anyway, we’ll worry about that later. First, help us gain some distance.” “I’ll figure something out,” promised Piecrust. <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>>

Rosalinda hoped a more careful attack will help her hit Leon in a weak spot. Unfortunately, she moved too slow. The knight turned and saw her just as the club was about to his him. He let go of his horse’s reins and grabbed the falling club with his right hand, reaching for Bella’s harness with his left. Rosalinda tried to hold on to the club, but Leon was stronger than her. He pulled the weapon out of her hand and tossed it behind him. Rosalinda froze. She just lost her only weapon! “I got it!” she heard just then. “Be more careful with it next time, will you?” Norbert caught the flying club and was now handing it back to her. She took it and looked at Leon, who stared back, as if to challenge her. <<link "She aimed at his left side and swung as hard as she could." "Leon hit">><<set $leonhp -= 1>><<set $leonhit to "Rosalinda took a swing at Leon’s left side. It was turned away from her – but with two arms and a club, she had some impressive reach. The club hit Leon with a loud “thud”. The knight swayed in his saddle and barely managed not to fall. “Take this!” screamed Norbert.">><</link>> <<link "She aimed at his right side and swung as hard as she could." "Lose club 2">><<set $leonhp -= 1>><</link>>

<<if $leonhp < 1>>\ <<if $inventory.includes("rightarmwithclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.delete("rightarmwithclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("rightarm")>>\ <<else>>\ <<run $inventory.delete("leftarmwithclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("leftarm")>>\ <</if>>\ Leon dropped to the ground with a horrible clatter. His horse stopped and stared at his master with surprise. “Now, that was some fight!” shouted Norbert with glee. “Looks like you won, skeleton! Go, girls! To the northern gate! Oh – and I want my club back, thank you very much.” Rosalinda, exhausted from the fight, returned the club to Norbert, who ran his fingers along it, then put it back under his seat. <<link "Continue" "Defeat Leon">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ Leon drew his sword, ready to defend himself from further attacks. <<link "Rosalinda swung at the knight’s sword." "Lose club 2">><</link>> <<link "Rosalinda thrust, aiming at Leon’s lower back." "Leon hit">><<set $leonhp -= 1>><<set $leonhit to "The sudden push unsaddled the knight, who screamed, then fell out of the saddle.">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if $inventory.includes("rightarmwithclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.delete("rightarmwithclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("rightarm")>>\ <<else>>\ <<run $inventory.delete("leftarmwithclub")>>\ <<run $inventory.push("leftarm")>>\ <</if>>\ As soon as she swung, she realised she shouldn’t had attempted attacking where Leon could clearly see it. <<if hasVisited("Leon hit")>>The knight parried with his blade, disarming Rosalinda and sending the club flying away into darkness.<<else>>The knight raised his arm and braced in his saddle. The powerful swing bounced off his armour, and Rosalinda’s club flew away, into darkness.<</if>> “No! Now you lost it!” cried Norbert. “And you didn’t even get rid of the knight! You better figure something out now. Bella looks like she can’t take it for much longer!” <<link "Continue" "On the Roof of the Coach">><</link>>

Archwood at night was ominous. The horses ran down a forest road, and the coach jumped up and down on rocks and roots. Rosalinda was standing on the roof, looking out for any blockages – in the dark, she could see much better than a living person. “They’re still following us!” cried Norbert. “They don’t know when to give up!” “I hate this place,” mumbled Albert from inside the coach. “I get the feeling something horrible is going to happen.” And he was right. First, they heard a loud thud and a cry of pain behind them. Then, shadowy silhouettes appeared among the trees. Someone recited words in a language she did not understand, and suddenly people around Rosalinda started to panic. Daisy and Bella were terrified, too; they reared up, nearly upsetting the coach. Before Rosalinda could comprehend what was going on, a low branch she failed to notice swept her off the coach, sending her flying. Tumbling down a grassy slope, she could hear her friends’ terrified screaming. She thought she saw Lydia galloping past her, too. Then, there was a horrible, crashing noise. She desperately wanted to climb up and rush to help, but her body parts got disconnected. Confused, she lost all sense of direction. As her mind became overwhelmed, everything around her went black. <<link "Continue" "Archwood Intro">><</link>>

<center>The Trials of Rosalinda <<button "New game" "Intro">><</button>> <<button "Load game">><<script>>UI.saves()<</script>><</button>> <<button "Settings">><<script>>UI.settings()<</script>><</button>> <<button "About" "About Start">><</button>> </center>

<<run $spells.push("FlameArrow")>>\ Piecrust climbed onto a pile of papers, wanting to get a glimpse of what the Light’s Chosen were up to. He could only read the pages on top of each stack and the ones that were sticking out – moving the stacks was out of the question. He didn’t want to end up crushed by a pile of evidence. Most of what he found was uninteresting. A dishonest pawnbroker’s client list. Reports about “suspicious noises” at night. An anonymous letter complaining about a neighbour’s noisy pigs. But one page was different. It was yellowed with age, sticking out near the bottom of one of the stacks, in a way that made only one half of it visible. Piecrust knew a spellbook page when he saw one. And this one was especially familiar. “My grimoire!” he gasped. It was in the pawnbroker pile. “Did – did Gustav pawn pages from my grimoire? That – that –” He looked around, but could see no more spellbook pages. With great difficulty, he composed himself enough to read the one he found, and suddenly forgotten knowledge awoke in his mind. Piecrust can now cast the Flame Arrow spell! <<link "Continue" "Evidence Room">><</link>>

<<run $spells.push("WaterJet")>>\ <<run $spells.push("AirBubble")>>\ “Fancy that,” thought Piecrust, reading on as Albert flipped the pages back and forth. “Gustav grew bored of it, and Albert can’t understand a word of it, but reads it anyway. Let’s see…” As he studied the incantations, it all came back to him. It wasn’t much – just two simple magic tricks, but Piecrust had the feeling they could be useful if he got creative. Piecrust can use two new spells: Water Jet and Air Bubble! <<link "Continue" "Inside the Coach">><</link>>

<<run $rooms["Evidence Room"].items.push("marble")>><<set $mousefed to true>>\ Piecrust spat out the corn and stepped back, inviting the grey mouse to eat. The kernels were a little less dry after he held them in his mouth, and he started to wonder if he should give away all of them – if he should give them away at all. But before he could eat a single one, the grey mouse pounced at them. It dropped the marble, which rolled away, and devoured the corn ravenously. “You’re welcome,” said Piecrust. The grey mouse ignored him. Piecrust’s stomach rumbled, but he forced himself to focus. This wasn’t the time to think about food. “Now, where did that marble go?" he wondered. <<link "Continue" "Mouse Hole">><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>><<goto "Small Clearing Intro">>\ <<default>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if hasVisited("Ruffians Leave")>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a small forest clearing, where a campfire was burning.<<if $osmundmoved>><<elseif hasVisited("Osmundsword")>> <<if $using || $casting>><<object "Osmund1">><<else>><<link "Osmund" "Osmund1 Talk">><</link>><</if>> was sitting by the fire, a worried look on his face, nervously looking around whenever he heard something rustle among the trees.<<else>> Near the campfire, <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk") != true>><<link "Osmund" "Piecrust Osmund First Talk">><</link>><<else>><<object "Osmund">><</if>> was lying on the ground, bound with ropes.<</if>> <<else>><<if $activepart == "skull">>Rosalinda’s skull was stuck on a wooden spike in a forest clearing.<<else>><<partfullname>> was at the edge of a small forest clearing.<</if>> In the middle of the clearing a campfire was burning. <<object "Crag">> was sitting next to it<<if hasVisited("tinmugdreammoss")>>. <<object "Pest1">>, his companion, was sleeping calmly, his back against a tree.<<elseif hasVisited("Distract Pest")>>. <<object "Pest0">> stood with his back to the fire, staring at the skull of Rosalinda and scratching his head.<<else>>, with <<object "Pest">> a bit further away, leaning his back against a tree.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("tinmugdreammoss")>><<elseif hasVisited("Distract Pest")>>His <<object "tin mug">> was on the ground, near the edge of the clearing.<<else>><<if $activepart == "skull">>Sometimes, he would look at the skull – and other bones adorning a row of spikes – with content.<</if>><</if>> <<if $activepart != "skull">>The ruffians did not see <<partfullname>> hiding in the shadows. <</if>>On the opposite side of the campfire <<object "Osmund0">> was lying on the ground, bound with ropes. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go north [->Overgrown Ravine]">><<moveto "Overgrown Ravine">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</switch>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<set $activepart to "body">>\ <<set $inventory to []>>\ <<set $bodyparts to ["body"]>>\ <<set $bodyav to true>><<set $bodyloc to "Overgrown Ravine">>\ <<set $larmav to true>><<set $larmloc to "Overgrown Ravine">>\ <<set $rarmav to true>><<set $rarmloc to "Overgrown Ravine">>\ <<set $skullav to true>><<set $skullloc to "Small Clearing">>\ <<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <<set $piecrustav to false>>\ Rosalinda sat up. She was lying at the bottom of a small ravine, among rocks and tangled roots. Her arms detached when she tumbled off the coach, but she could feel them nearby. Her skull, on the other hand, was somewhere else entirely. She was not sure, where – the recent events were all blurry. “It’s a good thing I’m this sturdy,” she thought, standing up. “I must put myself together and find the others.” She hoped they were all right, but reason was saying otherwise. There was the crash, and the screams, she remembered. Now, she could not hear the coach, or her friends. Around her, the forest was dark and foreboding. The trees were leafless, but clouds were hiding the Moon and the stars. Forest creatures were moving among the branches and bushes, going about their nightly business. Being here at night, all alone, made it easy to understand why Archwood got its reputation. Something about the forest felt sinister. An owl hooted in the distance and Rosalinda snapped out of her thoughts. “First of all, my arms,” she decided. “Then I’ll worry about everything else.” <<link "Continue">><<moveto "Overgrown Ravine">><</link>>\

<<if hasVisited("Small Clearing")>><<set _moveclearing to "Go south [->Small Clearing]">><<else>><<set _moveclearing to "Go south">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Near Crashed Coach")>><<set _movecoach to "Go east [->Near Crashed Coach]">><<else>><<set _movecoach to "Go east">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was at the bottom of an overgrown ravine, which was even darker than the surrounding forest. There was a gnarled <<object "tree stump">> at the edge of the ravine. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link _moveclearing>><<moveto "Small Clearing">><</link>> <<link _movecoach>><<moveto "Near Crashed Coach">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Inside the Tree Stump")>>\ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<link "Crawl into the hole underneath the stump [-> Inside the Tree Stump]">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda was too big to fit in the hole.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Crawl into the hole underneath the stump [-> Inside the Tree Stump]">><<moveto "Inside the Tree Stump">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<if hasVisited("By the Lakeside")>><<set _movelakeside to "Go east [->By the Lakeside]">><<else>><<set _movelakeside to "Go east">><</if>><<if hasVisited("On the Forest Road")>><<set _moveroad to "Go north [->On the Forest Road]">><<else>><<set _moveroad to "Go north">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was on the narrow, bumpy road which which was winding north, deeper into Archwood. <<object "Dark trees">> towered above the <<object "thick undergrowth">> on both sides of the road. The road was blocked by the crashed <<object "coach">>, lying on its side.<<if hasVisited("Get lantern") != true>> The <<object "coach lantern">> was still in place, attached to an iron <<object "bracket">>.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go west [->Overgrown Ravine]">><<moveto "Overgrown Ravine">><</link>> <<link _movelakeside>><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><</link>> <<link _moveroad>><<moveto "On the Forest Road">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

Crag, a burly ruffian with shifty eyes, was clutching a heavy club and looking around nervously. <<= either("“I swear, if I see anything move in the shadows, I’m going to clobber it,” he said.", "“Siegfried and his magic give me the creeps,” he said. “Taking on this job was a stupid mistake.”", "“Don’t try ANYTHING,” he threatened Osmund. “I know all your tricks.”")>> <<if hasVisited("Pest Falls Asleep") != true>>\ <<link "Listen in on the ruffians" "Ruffians Talk">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<if $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Try talking to Crag">><<if $cragtalkedto>><<makepopuptext "" "“He’s going to smash my skull if I do that,” thought Rosalinda. “Better stay quiet.”">><<else>><<set $cragtalkedto to true>><<makepopuptext "" "“Excu-” began the skull. Crag jumped to his feet. “Did that thing just talk?” he asked. “I’m going to smash it, I swear.” “I heard nothing,” said Pest. “Skulls can’t talk. So leave it alone.” Crag sat back down. “Maybe I was just hearing things. But if it says something again, I’m breaking it into a million pieces. I don’t care how much you like it.”">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Approach Crag">><<if $cragapproached>><<makepopuptext "" "“That man is going to attack me on sight,” thought Rosalinda. “Best stay hidden.”">><<else>><<set $cragapproached to true>><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> moved towards Crag, but stopped when the man jumped to his feet and started waving his club around. “Something’s in the bushes, Pest! Something’s spying on us! I’ll give it a good whack!” <<partfullname>> fell back to the hiding place in the undergrowth, narrowly escaping being hit. “Did you get it?” asked Pest. “I think so. It’s no longer moving.”">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "skull" && hasVisited("Pest Falls Asleep")>>\ <<link "Talk to Crag, pretending to be Pest" "Crag Dialogue">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

Pest was a pale, thin man, much less physically imposing than his companion. He alternated between looking around nervously, poking the fire with a long stick and staring straight at Rosalinda’s skull<<if $activepart == "skull">>, which made it a little uncomfortable. The skull could vaguely remember getting separated from the body, rolling down a hill and being picked up and brought here by Pest<</if>>. In his hands, he was holding a bent <<link "tin mug">><<makepopuptext "" "“I won’t be able to do anything with this mug as long as Pest is holding it,” thought Rosalinda.">><</link>>, from which he would occasionally take a sip. <<link "Listen in on the ruffians" "Ruffians Talk">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<if $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Try talking to Pest">><<if $cragtalkedto>><<makepopuptext "" "“Crag is going to smash my skull if I do that,” thought Rosalinda. “Better stay quiet.”">><<else>><<set $cragtalkedto to true>><<makepopuptext "" "“Excu-” began the skull. Pest did not notice, but Crag jumped to his feet. “Did that thing just talk?” he asked. “I’m going to smash it, I swear.” “I heard nothing,” said Pest. “Skulls can’t talk. So leave it alone.” Crag sat back down. “Maybe I was just hearing things. But if it says something again, I’m breaking it into a million pieces. I don’t care how much you like it.”">><</if>><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Distract Pest") != true>>\ <<link "Grin at Pest" "Distract Pest">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Approach Pest">><<if $cragapproached>><<makepopuptext "" "“Crag will see me, and attack me on sight,” thought Rosalinda. “And though Pest doesn’t seem as belligerent, I’m not sure how he would react if he saw me. Best stay hidden.”">><<else>><<set $cragapproached to true>><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> moved towards Pest’s back, but stopped when Crag jumped to his feet and started waving his club around. “Something’s in the bushes, Pest! Something’s spying on us! I’ll give it a good whack!” <<partfullname>> fell back to the hiding place in the undergrowth. “Did you get it?” asked Pest. “I think so. It’s no longer moving.”">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ “Hang in there. I’ll find something to cut these ropes with,” promised Rosalinda. Osmund tried to smile, but could not conceal the scared look on his face. “This forest is evil,” he said. “Please, be careful. If something happens to you, then I – I…” “Don’t worry. I’m resilient.” <<link "“Can you remind me how you ended up here?” asked Rosalinda." "How Osmund got captured">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“What do you know about those bandits?” asked Rosalinda." "Ask Osmund about bandits">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<else>>\ Osmund tried to smile, but could not conceal the scared look on his face. “This forest is evil,” he said. “Please, be careful. I think there are more armed bandits around, and that warlock. Oh, I hope it’s not too late for the Captain, and your friends.” <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "skull">>\ Rosalinda focused her senses on her skull. At first, she didn’t know where the skull was – she remembered losing it when she crashed to the ground and rolled downhill. Now the skull felt a little dizzy. When she finally looked around through her eye sockets, she realised someone had placed her skull on a wooden spike in a small clearing. There were more spikes around, with animal bones on them. She saw two shifty-looking men sitting near a crackling campfire. One was burly, the other – thin. There were arguing about something. <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> went south and finally reached a small forest clearing, where two shifty-looking men were sitting near a crackling campfire. One was burly, the other – thin. There were arguing about something. <<partfullname>> stayed in the bushes, outside the circle of light, and watched. Soon, <<if $activepart == "body">>she<<else>>it<</if>> noticed a row of wooden stakes at the edge of the clearing. They were adorned with various bones, as if in a warning to anyone approaching. And among them… “My skull!” thought Rosalinda. “I have to get it back!” <</if>>\ A moment later, something moved on the other side of the campfire. “Stay still!” growled the burly man. With terror, Rosalinda realised he was addressing Osmund. The novice was lying on the ground, bound with ropes around his ankles and wrists. “I still say we should free him, Crag,” said the thin man. “You’re stupid, Pest,” spat out Crag. “The warlock will reward us if we bring him the prisoner.” ”Yeah? So why aren’t you doing it?” “Because we should wait. For the right moment.” “Come on, Crag. Admit it – the warlock is giving you the creeps.” “I’m not a coward like you, Pest. I’m just sensible. No need to run around stumbling in the dark. Let’s wait until the morning.” “We could be in Greywall by then. I’m telling you – getting separated was a chance Heavens sent us. We should take it. I say we go.” “I say we stay, and I’m the leader!” shouted Crag and shook his club. Pest flinched. “But, Crag,” he said after a long pause, “what if the warlock casts a spell on us? You saw what he did to…” “Quit your whining!” said Craig, but he visibly shuddered. Pest noticed that and continued: “If we free the prisoner and leave, we’ll be safe from him. The reward isn’t worth it.” “You must have hit your head on something, or you’re even dumber that I thought, Pest. Free the Chosen? His friends will hound us to death. No, we stay. Siegfried will find what he’s looking for soon, and we’ll be rich.” Osmund started wriggling on the ground, but stopped when Crag threatened him. The two ruffians became quiet and for a while, only the crackling of fire and the rustling of the wind in the trees could be heard. “Bandits and warlocks,” thought Rosalinda. “And they had something to do with the coach crashing. I must free Osmund, and find everyone else. I hope they weren’t captured by that Siegfried.” <<link "Continue">><<moveto "Small Clearing">><</link>>

The lantern went out, but miraculously survived the crash almost intact – only one of its glass panes was covered in a spider web of fractures. The lantern was secured with screws to <<if hasVisited("bracketRust")>>a rusty<<else>>an<</if>> iron bracket, which was nailed to the body of the coach. <<if hasVisited("bracketRust")>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Take the lantern">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was too small to take the lantern.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Take the lantern">><<makepopuptext "" "The skull couldn’t pick up the lantern on its own.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ <<link "Take the lantern">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda had no arms with which to take the lantern.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Take the lantern" "Get lantern">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Take the lantern">><<makepopuptext "" "The lantern was firmly secured in place by the iron bracket.">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("bracketRust")>>An iron bracket to which the lantern was attached. It was itself nailed to the body of the coach. The bracket was rusted through and started to fall apart. <<else>>A sturdy iron bracket, to which the lantern was attached. It was itself nailed to the body of the coach. <</if>>\

The huge, gnarled tree stump was standing alone at the edge of the ravine. There was a narrow hole among its roots, leading down at a steep angle. <<if $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm" || $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Crawl into the hole">><<run Dialog.close()>><<moveto "Inside the Tree Stump">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && hasVisited("Get Dream Moss") != true || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && hasVisited("Get Dream Moss") != true>>\ <<link "Reach into the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda reached into the hole. Her fingers touched something soft, but it was too deep for her to grab.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Reach into the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda tried, but couldn’t reach the end of the earthen tunnel.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Reach into the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "With no arms, Rosalinda could not reach into the hole.">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "dreammoss">>\ <<else>>\ <<set $itemrarm to "dreammoss">>\ <</if>>\ <<partfullname>> carefully picked up the dream moss. <<link "Continue" "Inside the Tree Stump">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ The narrow tunnel beneath the roots ended in a small earthen chamber. <<if hasVisited("Get Dream Moss") != true>>A small <<object "clump of moss">> was clinging to the dirt wall.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<link "Go outside [->Overgrown Ravine]">><<moveto "Overgrown Ravine">><</link>> <<fasttravel>>

The clump was no bigger than a thumb, pale and soft like a rabbit’s ear. “Dream moss!” thougt Rosalinda. “Eating it will relax you and put you to sleep, if you consume enough. <<link "Pick up the moss" "Get Dream Moss">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "Back">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <<else>><<run $inventory.delete("dreammoss")>>\ <</if>>\ <<partfullname>> inched forward, dropped the dream moss into Pest’s mug and went back into the hiding spot without being noticed. <<link "Continue" "Pest Falls Asleep">><</link>>

<<run $rooms["Small Clearing"].items.push("emptymug")>>\ Pest soon sat down again. “You sure love that skull,” pointed out Crag. “Planning to marry it, too?” “I told you, it’s to make our camp look better,” spat out Pest. “We’re working for a mighty warlock, so our place should look the part.” “Oh, yeah? I thought you wanted us to quit.” Pest clenched his fists. “I may just quit on my own and leave you behind.” “You wouldn’t have the courage.” Pest’s face turned red. He didn’t say anything. Instead, he reached for his cup and started gulping down. Suddenly, he made a strange noise and swallowed loudly. “What the hell, Crag?” he asked. “Very funny, putting things in my drink. I almost… almooo…” His speech became slow and slurred. Without finishing the sentence, he dropped the mug and fell sideways onto it. The metal creaked and Pest groanes with pain. He sat up, a look of confusion on his face, and immediately felt asleep again, this time with his back againt a tree. Crag was paying so little attention to his companion he didn’t notice anything was going on. <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ “I’m telling you, this job was a mistake,” said Pest, nervously glancing around. “I don’t like the whole business with magic, and I don’t like Archwood. We should leave while we can.” Crag shot him an angry look. “I’m tired of your whining. Get a hold of yourself! We stay, we do what Siegfried tells us, and we get our reward. I’m not crawling back to Greywall, to be arrested by the Chosen.” “But –” “Shut up, Pest, or I’ll – wait, what was that?” Crag jumped to his feet at the sound of a piercing wail. A winged shadow quietly glided over the clearing and disappeared among the trees. “A damned owl!” The burly man shook his head and sat back down. “I don’t like owls,” said Pest. “Hey, Crag, maybe we could move the camp? Somewhere close to the edge of the forest?” “No. I’m not going to tell you again: we stay here!” Pest shrugged and started poking the fire with a long stick, while Crag kept staring into the darkness, holding his club at the ready. <<case 2>>\ “So, Crag,” began Pest, “I’ve been thinking –” “Not this again.” “– Been thinking about the prisoner. Won’t the Chosen be looking for him? If they come here in force, we’re done for.” “They won’t. The warlock promised to keep them busy in Greywall.” “But won’t saving for one of their own be more important to them? What I wanted to say was – if we let the prisoner go, they won’t have a reason to come here and give us trouble.” Crag rolled his eyes. “A plan like that could only be born in that rotten brain of yours, Pest. Let him go? He’ll immediately tell the Chosen about us, and THEN they will come.” “Well, I mean – we could make him promise not to tell anyone.” “I swear, Pest, one more dumb idea of yours and I’m going to lose it. I already decided what to do with the prisoner, so shut up.” <<case 3>>\ Crag stood up and started stoking the campfire. Pest was watching with unease. “Crag, I think we shouldn’t make such a big fire,” he said. “What if the light draws someone – or something?” “It already would have. I want a big fire, dammit! It’s cold!” <<case 4>>\ "Pest started poking the campfire with his stick, then took a piece of firewood. “Leave the fire alone,” growled Crag. “But I thought –” “Leave thinking to me. If anything, we need a smaller fire. Only an idiot like you would waste fuel and signal our presence to –” He checked himself mid-sentence. “To what?” Pest looked around nervously. “Oh, just shut up.” <<default>>\ The two ruffians mostly stayed quiet. Crag was occasionally threatening the terrified Osmund, or complaining about Pest’s suggestions, all of which he deemed “idiotic” and “cowardly”. <</switch>>\ <<link "Back" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

“Of course we won’t – wait!” Crag smacked his forehead with the palm of his hand. “Why wouldn’t we, Pest? Don’t you see? Oh, I’m a genius! We go to city and tell the Chosen about the evil warlock, and about how we saved one of their knights from his clutches! They will have no choice, but to reward us. We’re going to be heroes! Filthy rich heroes. You there, prisoner! Stay alive and someone will come to help you. And you, Pest! Quickly! We’re leaving now! What are you waiting for?” His screaming finally woke Pest up. The thin ruffian looked around in confusion and saw his companion leaving the clearing and stumbling through the bushes in the southern direction. ”Move it!” barked out Crag, startling some birds which started chirping alarmingly. “We’re heading for Greywall, NOW! Ouch!” There was a sound of something heavy dropping to the ground. “Damned roots!” Pest, still shocked, but happy at the inexplicable change of plans, hurried to help his companion. Soon, the sounds of the two stumbling around, falling down and cursing, could no longer be heard. <<link "Continue" "Ruffians Leave2">><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ “If I speak now, and Crag doesn’t look at the skull, he’ll assume it’s Pest talking,” thought Rosalinda. She looked at Crag, who was turned the other way, staring at Osmund with suspicion. “Ahem… Crag?” “What is it?” asked the burly man. “Hell, your voice is even more grating than usual. I have no idea how you’re doing this.” “I thought we should talk.” “I told you, there’s nothing to talk about. Just do as I say. Oh – and don’t start with that ‘going back to Greywall’ nonsense again.” <<default>>\ “Hey, Crag?” asked Rosalinda’s skull. “What is it now, Pest? Can’t you see I’m busy keeping watch?” <</switch>>\ <<link "“I think we should go back to Greywall,” said the skull." "Suggest Going Back">><</link>> <<link "“I now actually think we shouldn’t go back to Greywall under any circumstances,” said the skull." "Do Not Go Back">><</link>> <<link "“I was thinking about the warlock. What is the deal with him?”" "Ask about warlock">><</link>> <<link "“Do you think there were other people travelling with the Chosen?” asked the skull. “I wonder what happened to them.”" "Ask About Others">><</link>> <<link "“Sorry, Crag, it’s nothing.”" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

Rosalinda’s skull waited for Pest to look at it again. When he did, it send him a most toothy grin, hoping to attract Pest’s attention without alerting Crag. It worked. Pest blinked rapidly and opened his mouth in surprise, but shut them again without saying anything. “He must be afraid Crag is going to smash his collection if he lets him know,” though Rosalinda. Pest put his mug on the ground, stood up and walked towards the skull, staring at it intensely. <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

“And what should be the deal? He’s a warlock. Don’t waste time thinking about things you can’t understand.” “I – I just wonder what his goal is.” “And I don’t. I don’t care what he’s looking for in the ruins. I want him to find it, and pay us our money. Do what I say, and you’ll get your part. Though you don’t deserve it.” <<link "Back" "Crag Dialogue Questions Only">><</link>>

<<link "“I think we should go back to Greywall,” said the skull." "Suggest Going Back">><</link>> <<link "“I now actually think we shouldn’t go back to Greywall under any circumstances,” said the skull." "Do Not Go Back">><</link>> <<link "“I was thinking about the warlock. What is the deal with him?”" "Ask about warlock">><</link>> <<link "“Do you think there were other people travelling with the Chosen?” asked the skull. “I wonder what happened to them.”" "Ask About Others">><</link>> <<link "“Sorry, Crag, it’s nothing.”" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

“I’ve heard it a thousand times. The answer is still no,” replied Crag angrily. “I’m not wasting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get rich because you’re afraid of darkness.” “Then – shouldn’t we go to, you know, where the warlock is? We don’t have to sit here.” “But we will, because I said so. I don’t want to drag the Chosen through Archwood at night. If something happens to him, we won’t get paid for him, you idiot.” <<link "Back" "Crag Dialogue Questions Only">><</link>>

“You were with me all the time. Are you blind and deaf, or just that stupid? You heard the screams and the crash, and saw the lights. Of course there were other people. Good thing this one here fell off his horse sooner, and we found him. He’ll be worth some money to Siegfried.” <<link "Back" "Crag Dialogue Questions Only">><</link>>

“What?” “I finally understood. Going back to the city will land us in terrible trouble. We must stay here and serve the warlock till the end.” Crag scratched his chin and cast a quick glance at Pest. Thankfully, he didn’t notice his companion was asleep. “So, you finally… wait, wait. It’s a terrible idea.” “But –” “Stop with your ‘buts’, Pest! We’re leaving this accursed forest and going back to Greywall. Siegfried wouldn’t pay us anyway. He’d just kill us as soon as he found the thing he’s looking for. It’s only because of your stupid insistence we were stuck here for so long.” “Good!” thought Rosalinda. Crag was open to being convinced, if one knew how. <<link "“We should also free the prisoner,” said the skull." "Suggest Freeing Osmund">><</link>> <<link "“O-okay,” said the skull. “You’re the boss. But we must not free the prisoner!”" "Suggest Not Freeing Osmund">><</link>>

“Have you lost your mind?” screamed Crag. “Of course we must free him, or the Chosen will learn about what we did, and we’ll spend the rest of our lives locked away in a dungeon.” He turned to Osmund. “Hey, you hear me? We’re freeing you now, because we’re honest men and have nothing to do with Siegfried the warlock. So, don’t tell any lies to your friends!” Osmund, in shock, quickly shook his head, then nodded, as he wasn’t sure what his captor expected from him. “I will cut your ties now – oh, blast it! I lost my knife! Never mind. We have to leave before Siegfried finds out I outwitted him. Darn it – what do we do now? We can’t carry him around like a sack of potatoes.” Rosalinda was sure she could figure out a way to untie the novice once the ruffians are gone, so she said: <<link "“I don’t know about that, Crag. I’m fine with whatever you say, as long as we don’t tell the Chosen about the warlock and his plans.”" "Ruffians Leave">><</link>>

“I’ve already told you, it’s a stupid and dangerous idea,” snapped Crag. “I think we should silence him, just to be sure.” The situation started turning dangerous, so Rosalinda tried to fix her mistake. <<link "“Uh, sorry, Crag. I misspoke. I wanted to say we must not free the prisoner, under any circumstances.”" "Suggest Not Freeing Osmund">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("The Hollow Willow")>><<set _movewillow to "Go inside the hollow tree [->The Hollow Willow]">><<else>><<set _movewillow to "Go inside the hollow tree">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was on the shore of a small, but <<object "deep lake">>, surrounded by trees. There was a <<object "pile of stones">> on the eastern side of the lake. On the northern side of the lake an old willow was bending down, as if looking at its reflection in the water. The thick trunk of the tree was hollow, with a huge hole leading inside. <<if hasVisited("Recruit Piecrust") != true>>A <<object "trail of burned grass">> led from the western side of the clearing towards the willow.<</if>> <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Fish Appears") != true>>\ Piecrust was sensing a strange aura around the lake. Something was weakening his magic. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Fish Appears") && hasVisited("monstrouscatfishbitterherring") != true>> A <<object "monstrous catfish">> was dozing off in the shallow water on the southern side of the lake.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go west [->Near Crashed Coach]">><<if $inventory.includes("largestone") && $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("largestone")>><<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push("largestone")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda could hardly move around while carrying the heavy stone. She dropped it on the ground by the lake.">><</if>><<moveto "Near Crashed Coach">><</link>> <<link _movewillow>><<if $inventory.includes("largestone") && $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("largestone")>><<run State.variables.rooms[$location].items.push("largestone")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda could hardly move around while carrying the heavy stone. She dropped it on the ground by the lake.">><</if>><<moveto "The Hollow Willow">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $inventory.includes("largestone") && $activepart == "body">>\ <<link "Travel to…">><<makepopuptext "" "“Before I travel anywhere, I'll have to drop this rock,” thought Rosalinda. “I can hardly move!”">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<fasttravel>> <</if>>\

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was inside the trunk of the old willow<<if $activepart == "body">>, in a cavity big enough for her to stand straight<</if>>. <<if $willowpassageopen != true>> The ground was flat and even, and moving on it produced a hollow sound. <</if>>There were many smaller openings and crevices in the rotten wood<<if hasVisited("Recruit Piecrust") != true>>, and from <<object "one small hole">> the sounds of sobbing and quiet whispering could be heard<</if>>. <<if hasVisited("Enter through secret passage")>>\ There was a passage in the ground, leading down a flight of stairs, into a narrow tunnel. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Exit the hollow [->By the Lakeside]">><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Enter through secret passage")>>\ <<link "Go down the stairs [->Secret Passage]">><<moveto "Secret Passage">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

“Piecrust?” asked <<partfullname>> quietly. “Go away, monster!” screamed Piecrust. Something rustled inside the hole, as if the mouse was tossing himself around. “Talons and teeth! Death in the darkness! Leave me alone, leave me alone!” “Piecrust, come out. It’s me, Rosalinda. You’re safe. There aren’t any monsters here.” “Nooo! Don’t touch me!” “Piecrust, please! Don’t you remember? We were chased, and drove into Archwood, and got separated. But now I’ve found you. Whatever you’re seeing, it’s just a nightmare!” Piecrust went quiet for a while. Rosalinda waited nervously for his answer. Finally, he spoke. “Rosalinda? Oh… Oh, I could swear there were owls chasing after me. The coach crashed, and then the evil things came. But you do sound like her, and owls can’t speak. I… I don’t know what’s real any more!” “It’s me, Piecrust, it’s really me! And I need your help to save everyone else.” There was another moment of silence, and then a scratching sound. Piecrust climbed out of the hole. His fur was dirty and clumped together, and he looked ashamed of himself. “It really is you,” he acknowledged, looking at <<partfullname>>. “I’m sorry. I acted like a coward again.” “I think you were under some spell. I met two bandits in the forest. They’re serving some warlock named Siegfried who, I think, captured Tekla and the rest.” A spark appeared in Piecrust’s eyes. The mouse smoothed his fur and twitched his whiskers. “A warlock, you say?” he said, sounding serious. “That would explain a lot. It also means we’re in trouble. I agree, what I experienced seems like some sort of illusion magic. Which is… not ideal.” <<link "“How so?” asked Rosalinda." "Ask Illusions">><</link>> <<link "“Are you okay, Piecrust?” asked Rosalinda." "Ask If Okay">><</link>>

<<partfullname>> moved closer to the hole. Someone small and very scared was inside. “Leave me alone!” a tiny voice cried out. “Owls, cats, monsters! I’m going to die, I’m going to die!” “Piecrust!” thought Rosalinda. She couldn’t see the mouse, but the voice was, without a doubt, his. “What happened to him? It’s like he’s having a terrifying nightmare! I must help him – wake him up!” “NOOOOOO!” screamed Piecrust. <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Reach inside the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> reached for Piecrust, hoping to gently pick him up, but the mouse screamed and recoiled, pushing himself deeper into the hole.">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Reach inside the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "With no arms, Rosalinda could not reach into the hole.">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Talk to Piecrust" "Recruit Piecrust">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\

“Oh, praise Heavens!” said Osmund, looking at Rosalinda’s skull. “I wondered if it was you at first. It was amazing, how you outsmarted them!” “Are you all right, Osmund?” “Yes! Just a bit sore. I’m afraid the others are in a much worse situation. You see, I’m not a very good rider and I fell off my horse when it stumbled on some tree root, or something. Captain Lydia went past me, after the coach. And then I heard a crash, and screaming, and fighting, and someone saying ‘Take them away’. I think your friends and the Captain were captured, just like me, but by a different group of bandits.” “I think so, too,” replied Rosalinda. “<<if hasVisited("Near Crashed Coach")>>I’ve seen the crash site. <</if>>We must find them before that warlock hurts them. Hang in there, Osmund. I’ll untie you… somehow.” The novice wriggled on the ground in a futile attempt at loosening his ties. “They’re very tight,” he said. “You’ll have to cut them. Oh, what have we gotten ourselves into?” <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

The stones were roughly hewn and looked like the crumbled remains of some building, collapsed into a shapeless pile. <<if $activepart == "body" && $inventory.includes("largestone") != true && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && $rooms["By the Lakeside"].items.includes("largestone") != true>>\ <<link "Pick up a stone">><<run $inventory.push("largestone")>><<makepopuptext "" "With great effort, Rosalinda managed to pull one of the stones free from the pile. She could barely hold it with both hands, and with every step she made, she felt like she was about to drop it.">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $inventory.includes("largestone") != true && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Pick up a stone">><<makepopuptext "" "“Picking up the stone I dropped on the ground will be easier than pulling another one out of the pile,” thought Rosalinda.">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $inventory.includes("largestone")>>\ <<link "Pick up a stone">><<makepopuptext "" "“I can barely hold the one I’m already carrying!” thought Rosalinda">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true>>\ <<link "Pick up a stone">><<makepopuptext "" "“I’ll need both arms to pick up a huge stone like that,” thought Rosalinda">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Pick up a stone">><<makepopuptext "" "“There’s no way my arm can pick up that huge stone on its own!” thought Rosalinda. She tried anyway, but found out she was exactly right – the stone wouldn’t even budge.">><</link>>\ <</if>>\

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was at the bottom of the lake. Ruined stone buildings appeared like ghosts all around in the murky water. Some were small, with no windows and remains of iron bars in place of doors. Nearby, there was a paved plaza with a marble pillar still standing tall. A <<object "golden cage">> was placed on top of the pillar. <<if hasVisited("monstrouscatfishbitterherring") && hasVisited("recoverblackcrystal") != true>>\ <<partfullname>> could see a <<object "glinting object">> partially buried in the sand nearby. <</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ \ <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<link "Swim towards the surface">><<run $inventory.delete("largestone")>><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda dropped the heavy stone and immediately started to float towards the surface. A moment later, she was back on the shore of the lake.">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Swim towards the surface">><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><</link>>\ <</if>>\

“Huh,” said Piecrust. <<if hasVisited("Osmundsword")>>He stopped well clear of Osmund and looked at him with suspicion. “What are you doing here?” Osmund explained how he had been captured, and how Rosalinda had him. Piecrust snorted.<<else>>“Looks like you’re in quite a pickle.” Osmund explained how he ended up captured. “Rosalinda tricked Crag and Pest into leaving, and promised she’ll free me,” he added. <</if>> “Did she? I’ll have to talk with her about freeing people who put me inside a smelly hat,” he said. Osmund’s face turned red. “I’m very sorry, Mister Mouse. I shouldn’t have done that. It was all a big misunderstanding.” “That’s a delicate way to put it.<<if $piecrustasked>> Especially considering you’ve also burned down my tower!” “I’m so very sorry. An important citizen reported demonic activity in the tower and we tried to stop it and… a terrible accident happened.” “Accident?”<<else>>” “Uh… there’s something else I should tell you, I think,” said Osmund. Whatever he was trying to say, made him extremely uncomfortable.” “What now?” demanded Piecrust. “The tower of the wizard Theodore – I mean, your tower, sir – it burned down. I was there, assisting a patrol that was called by an important citizen. There were reports of demons in the tower and –” Piecrust’s fur stood up. “You burned down my tower?” “N-no – I think it was the demon’s spell – I can’t be sure – we tried to put out the fire…” <</if>>\ <<if $skullloc == "Small Clearing" || $bodyloc == "Small Clearing" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>> “This is not the time for holding grudges, Piecrust,” said Rosalinda. “Osmund is not to blame for what happened. Let’s focus on freeing our friends and Captain Lydia instead.” Piecrust sighed. “Lydia too? All right, don’t give me a side-eye.” “I don’t even have –” “I know what you were going to say. And I may not be happy about it, but you’re right.” <<else>>\ Piecrust sighed. He wanted to be furious, but how could he blame the hapless novice? <</if>>\ He turned to Osmund. “For now, I’ll forget about the incident. I have reasons to believe a corrupt warlock is searching for forbidden knowledge in Archwood. He’s a master of illusions, and likely captured Tekla, Lydia and the two old men. The plan is to find him, stop him, free the prisoners. The rest we can talk about later.” The novice stared at Piecrust with mouth agape. “I know,” said the mouse. “It’s a lot. Try not to get in our way. And, once it’s over, I trust you won’t do anything funny.” <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

“Well, illusions are not my forte,” admitted Piecrust. “I won’t feel confident confronting that warlock. I wish I could consult on this with my friend Aurelia.” “You think we’ll have to confront the warlock?” “If he’s holding Tekla and the Berts hostage? I bet it’s going to end that way.” Rosalinda felt a little surprised. Did Piecrust sound… excited? “I think he might have captured Captain Lydia, too,” she said. “Oh,” replied Piecrust. “I’m not going to say she deserved that after what she did to us, but… you know what I mean.” <<link "Continue" "Piecrust Conversation Willow">><</link>>

“Yes, I’m much better now. Understanding it was all not real does help. Looking back, it makes so much sense – the cats and owls were almost catching me all that time, but couldn’t really get me. Thank you from waking me from that nightmare, Rosalinda.” “Glad I could help. You weren’t recognising me and I worried –” “It took me a while to remember your voice, yes. This goes to show how powerful that illusion magic is. I wonder if it has something to do with Archwall.” <<link "“Archwall?”" "Ask Archwall">><</link>> <<link "“I want to discuss some other things.”" "Piecrust Conversation Willow">><</link>>

Piecrust was staring at <<partfullname>> with his beady eyes. He looked worried, but also determined. <<link "“Tell me more about illusion magic,” said Rosalinda." "Ask Illusions">><</link>> <<link "“Are you okay, Piecrust?” asked Rosalinda." "Ask If Okay">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Ask If Okay")>><<link "“Can you tell me about Archwall?” asked Rosalinda." "Ask Archwall">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "“What happened after I got knocked off the coach?” asked Rosalinda. “Why did it crash?”" "Ask Crash">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Ask Illusions") && hasVisited("Ask If Okay") && hasVisited("Ask Archwall") && hasVisited("Ask Crash")>><<link "“Let’s go,” said Rosalinda. “We need to find our friends.”" "Willow Conversation End">><</link>><</if>>

“The ancient city. Over a thousand years ago, there was a mighty citadel here, ruled by a council of wizards. We don’t have the time for a history lesson, so I’ll just stick to the basics – the wizards were extraordinarily powerful, but also tyrannical and corrupt. They discovered terrifying spells and built strange artefacts, and treated the common people of Archwall like slaves. Until a coalition of neighbouring cities brought them down. Once the wizards fell, Archwall was razed to the ground and trees were planted here to hide whatever remained of it. The victors wanted Archwall, and the wizards’ knowledge, to be forgotten, and so did its freed inhabitants, who established Greywall nearby. Some stories survived, of course. We have records of the happenings, and evryone knows Archwood is an ‘evil place’, even if they’re not sure why.” “That’s… a lot to think about,” said Rosalinda. “Makes my skull spin. Are you saying we’re in the ancient lair of evil wizards, and Heavens know what dark knowledge may lie beneath our feet?” “Something like that, yes.” “Then we can assume Siegfried the warlock is searching for that knowledge.” “Unfortunately, yes to that as well. He’s got a good timing, that Siegfried. Normally, the Chosen would patrol Archwood frequently, but now they’re too busy dealing with the trouble in the city.” Piecrust sighed. “Well, it won’t do us any good sitting here and debating Siegfried’s goals. As much as the mouse me would love to hide away, the wizard me says we have to investigate. We can’t let that villain hurt our friends.” <<link "Continue" "Piecrust Conversation Willow">><</link>>

“I’m not really sure,” replied Piecrust. “I couldn’t see much, and it was all chaos. I think Lydia caught up to us and tried to attack Norbert. Then lights appeared among the trees, and I heard screams. An owl was diving straight at me, and then the ground shook and I fell – I believe it was then the coach upturned. I was too focused on saving my life to pay much attention to anybody else, but they seemed to be scared to death as well. Tekla was crying “I didn’t want to hurt them!”, Lydia waved her sword at the shadows, Norbert was running after the escaping horses… I don’t remember much more. I crawled out of the wreckage and ran for my life, convinced the owl was after me. I fired spells, but they passed through it without doing any harm. I think I lost my mind completely, because I don’t remember much after that – next thing I knew, you were calling out to me.” The mouse twitched his tail, looking a little embarrassed. “It seems I was fully tricked by the illusions, and I believe everyone else suffered the same fate.” <<link "Continue" "Piecrust Conversation Willow">><</link>>

<<set $piecrustav to true>><<set $piecrustloc to "The Hollow Willow">>\ “Let’s,” agreed Piecrust. “I hope we won’t encountered any more illusions while looking for them.” Piecrust rejoined Rosalinda! <<link "Continue" "The Hollow Willow">><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ “Oh, trusty Rust spell, is there something you can’t do?” murmured Piecrust, casting the enchantment on the bracket. “Done. Now Rosalinda can detach the lantern from the coach, if she wants to.” <<default>>\ The bracket had already been turned into a lump of rust. <</switch>> <<link "Continue" "Near Crashed Coach">><</link>>

<<getitemfromdescription "lantern" "lantern">>\ The rusted bracket fell apart when <<partfullname>> touched it. <<partfullname>> _desc <<link "Continue" "Near Crashed Coach">><</link>>

The dark waters of the lake were still. Beneath the surface, ruined stone structures could barely be seen, including one that looked like a pillar with a golden box attached to its top. \ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if $airbubble>>\ <<link "Dive into the lake">><<moveto "At the Bottom of the Lake">><<makepopuptext "" "Trusting in his air bubble, Piecrust jumped into the lake and swam towards the ruins.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Dive into the lake">><<makepopuptext "" "“If I jump into the lake just like that, I’m going to drown before I reach the ruins,” thought Piecrust.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Dive into the lake">><<makepopuptext "" "The skull couldn’t walk, much less swim, on its own.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $inventory.includes("largestone")>>\ <<link "Dive into the lake">><<moveto "At the Bottom of the Lake">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda jumped into the water and the heavy stone immediately pulled her down, towards the bottom of the lake.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Dive into the lake">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> jumped into the lake, but only floated on the surface.">><</link>> <</if>>\

“Well, as I said, I’m not a very good rider. When we chased after you into the forest, I fell off my horse and hit my head. My horse ran away. I heard the coach crash, and everyone scream, but I couldn’t do anything. I lost consciousness, and when I came to, I was here, all tied up, and Pest and Crag were arguing about what to do with me.” <<link "Continue" "Talk to Osmund Clearing">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Osmundsword") != true>>“Could you hurry up and free me, please?” asked Osmund. “It’s terrifying, not being able to move with this dark wood all around.”<<else>>“Do you want to talk about anything else?”<</if>> <<link "“Can you remind me how you ended up here?” asked Rosalinda." "How Osmund got captured">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“What do you know about those bandits?” asked Rosalinda." "Ask Osmund about bandits">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "End conversation" "Small Clearing">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

“Not much, I’m afraid. I know they’re working for a warlock, who’s looking for something here in Archwood.” The novice shuddered. “I’ve got a very bad feeling about this whole situation. I’m sure there are more bandits deeper in the forest, and they have your friends, and the Captain. Also, I think the warlock is somehow responsible for the recent chaos in Greywall.” “It looks like he’s stirring trouble to keep the Chosen busy,” agreed Rosalinda. “Whatever he’s looking for in the forest, it must be something they wouldn’t want him to have.” <<if $piecrustloc == "Small Clearing">>\ “Ancient knowledge of the Archwall wizards” said Piecrust grimly. “Definitely something that should never fall into the hands of an unscrupulous mage.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Talk to Osmund Clearing">><</link>>

The undergrowth consisted of leafless bushes, thorny vines, dry ferns and small green conifers. <<if hasVisited("Obtain Sword") != true>>\ Something was sticking out of the undergrowth – it looked like a handle. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Pull the handle">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was too small to pull it out, but on closer examination he discovered the mystery object was a sword.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") != true && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") != true>>\ <<link "Pull the handle">><<makepopuptext "" "With no arms, Rosalinda could not pull on the handle.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Pull the handle" "Obtain Sword">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<getitemfromdescription "sword" "sword">>\ <<partfullname>> pulled on the handle, freeing a long sword from the brambles. It had obviously been dropped recently, as there was not a speck of rust on the shiny blade. <<partfullname>> _desc <<link "Continue" "Near Crashed Coach">><</link>>

Osmund froze when <<partfullname>> started sawing at the ropes with the sword. “Thanks a bunch” he said, breathing with relief, when he was finally free. He stood up and took a few wobbly steps. “The others must be somewhere in Archwood. I wish I could help you look for them, but it’s dark, and I don’t have any weapons, and…” He sighed and looked at <<partfullname>> apologetically. <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("lantern")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<else>><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <</if>>\ Osmund smiled when <<partfullname>> handed him the lantern. He took it and used a stick to light it from the campfire. “All right,” he said. <<if hasVisited("Osmund1sword")>>“I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. I’ll do my best to help. Just tell me where to go.”<<else>>“Now I can walk around without falling over every other step. I wish I had a weapon, too. There are bandits in the forest, and who knows what else. I’m not a great fighter, but I’ve been training for some time. If I had a sword, I think I could hold my own against a ruffian.”<</if>> <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("sword")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<else>><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <</if>>\ Osmund carefully took the sword from <<partfullname>> and examined it. “That’s a Chosen’s sword! Captain Lydia must have dropped it!” he exclaimed. For a moment, it seemed as if he wanted to hand it back, but then nodded with determination. “I’ll give it to the Captain when we’ve found her,” he promised. <<if hasVisited("Osmund1lantern")>>“All right. I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. I’ll do my best to help. Just tell me where to go.”<<else>>“For now, I think I’ll be able to hold my own against a ruffian. I’m not a great fighter by any means, but I do have some training. I only wish I had something to light my way in the forest.”<</if>> <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

“I’m sorry,” replied Osmund. “Really. I knew what we were doing wasn’t right. I think it’s terrible that the Captain wanted Rosalinda destroyed. It’s all because of the trouble in Greywall, and undead don’t have the best reputation. But the Captain should have listened, instead of judging the book by its cover.” “About that, it seems you’re quite an intelligent young man,” acknowledged Piecrust. “You’re right. Lydia is trying to do her job. But she’s also incredibly stubborn. I wonder if she’ll keep hunting Rosalinda. That is, if she’s still alive.” Osmund shuddered. “Do you think –” “I don’t know. But I’ll try to find out.” <<link "Continue" "Osmund1 Conversation">><</link>>

Osmund was looking at <<partfullname>>, fidgeting and glancing around whenever something rustled, creaked or cried in the dark forest. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "“Well, this was bound to happen,” said Piecrust. “Lydia’s overzealousness has landed us all in hot water.”" "Blame Lydia">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“What do you know about the bandits and the warlock?” asked Piecrust." "Osmund Bandits">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Courtyard Intro")>>\ <<link "“We could use your help with the guards further north,” said Piecrust." "Osmund Move">><</link>><</if>> <<elseif $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "“What do you know about the bandits and the warlock?” asked Rosalinda." "Osmund Bandits">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“Why don’t you go back to Greywall and alert the other Chosen?” asked Rosalinda." "Osmund Go Back">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Courtyard Intro")>>\ <<link "“There are ruins further north. The warlock is holding our friends there, and there are two guards blocking the way,” said Rosalinda." "Osmund Move">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Small Clearing">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

“They’re doing something deeper in the forest. They stirred trouble in Greywall. Also, they have the Captain and your friends,” replied Osmund and sighed. “I feel so helpless.” <<link "Continue" "Osmund1 Conversation">><</link>>

“I – I’d rather not go alone,” said Osmund, blushing. “If I ran into more bandits, I’ll just get captured again.” “You’re probably right,” agreed Rosalinda. “Maybe those who got stuck in mud will follow the trail and find us eventually.” “I hope they won’t find you. They may be still trying to hurt you.” “If you see them, please explain the situation.” Osmund shook his head and sighed. “I may try, but they’ll never –” He paused, took a deep breath and looked at <<partfullname>>. “You know what? I’ll do it, and I’ll make damn sure they’re listening.” <<link "Continue" "Osmund1 Conversation">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk") != true>>\ <<goto "Piecrust Osmund First Talk">>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Osmund1sword") && hasVisited("Osmund1lantern")>>\ Novice Osmund was standing at the edge of the clearing, holding a lantern and Lydia’s sword. “Have you found them?” he asked. “I won’t lie. I’m scared. The forest alone terrifies me; I feel like there’s thousands of eyes staring at me at all times. And I don’t even want to think about the warlock and his bandit army. But I promise I’ll do my best to help.” <<elseif hasVisited("Osmund1sword")>>\ Osmund was sitting by the campfire. “I’m sorry I’m not helping,” he said. “It’s just that I can’t see a thing in the darkness. I wanted to make a torch, but I don’t have the materials.” <<elseif hasVisited("Osmund1lantern")>>\ Osmund was sitting by the campfire. “With the lantern, I can follow you through the forest,” he said. “But I’m too afraid to go. If we stumble upon some ruffians, I’ll be captured or killed. If only I had a weapon… What about the sword you used to cut the ropes?” <<else>>\ Osmund was sitting by the campfire, looking glum. “I wish I could help,” he said. “This wouldn’t have happened if we hadn’t chased you. Now both Captain Lydia and your friends are in trouble, and I’m too scared to go anywhere. The forest is too dark, and I don’t have anything to defend myself with. I wish I was as brave as you are.” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">> “Understandable,” said Piecrust generously. “I have my magic, and my senses work better under the conditions. You can stay here. Rosalinda and I will figure out what to do about the warlock and his minions.” <<elseif $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ “It’s easier to be brave when you’re already dead,” replied Rosalinda. “Stay here, and don’t blame yourself for what happened.” “Thank you. I just wish I could be more useful.” “I’ll get you some light and a weapon if I can.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "“Well, this was bound to happen,” said Piecrust. “Lydia’s overzealousness has landed us all in hot water.”" "Blame Lydia">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“What do you know about the bandits and the warlock?” asked Piecrust." "Osmund Bandits">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Courtyard Intro")>>\ <<link "“We could use your help with the guards further north,” said Piecrust." "Osmund Move">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>> <<link "“What do you know about the bandits and the warlock?” asked Rosalinda." "Osmund Bandits">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“Why don’t you go back to Greywall and alert the other Chosen?” asked Rosalinda." "Osmund Go Back">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Courtyard Intro")>>\ <<link "“There are ruins further north. The warlock is holding our friends there, and there are two guards blocking the way,” said Rosalinda." "Osmund Move">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Small Clearing">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

It looked like a catfish, but was at least thirty feet long. It had rough skin and a flat head with giant mouth and five-foot-long whiskers. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust was pretty sure the ancient magic of Archwall had something to do with the size of that monstrosity.<</if>> The catfish was asleep, lying motionless at the bottom of the lake. <<link "Try to get inside the creature’s mouth">><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "“Thank you very much, but I’d leave that to Rosalinda,” thought Piecrust. The memory of almost having been swallowed by the monster sent shivers down his spine.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda tried tickling and pinching the monster, but her efforts were in vain. The catfish felt nothing through its thick skin and continued to lie motionless, asleep.">><</if>><</link>>

<<set $blackcrystalapproached to true>>\ <<if $cageopened>>\ An octahedral cage of golden filigree, split in half. The bottom part was touching a marble column and the top part was simply floating several feet above, frozen in place. <<elseif hasVisited("goldencageActivateMechanism")>>\ An octahedral cage of golden filigree was resting on top of the column. The cage was empty. <<else>>\ An octahedral cage of golden filigree was placed on a marble column, with only its tip touching the stone. Inside the cage, a black crystal was suspended in place. The cage was large and the crystal barely the size of a fist, so it was impossible to reach from the outside. There was a horizontal line running across the middle of the cage. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<set $crystalpiecrust to true>>\ Piecrust marvelled at the cage. It clearly was a work of magic, and the crystal seemed to be interacting with it. When Piecrust approached, he could sense a weakening aura. “The crystal is sucking up my magic!” he realised and quickly turned away, before the contraption could dispel his underwater breathing charm. “Yet the cage is enchanted as well, so it must be immune to the effect itself. What a curious mechanism! Could this possibly… no. I can’t test that hypothesis here. I’d drown.” <<else>>\ When Rosalinda approached the cage, she felt dizzy, as if life energy was flowing out of her. She realised there was some magic in play, dangerous for the undead, and kept her distance. <<set $crystalrosalinda to true>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if $location == "Descending Tunnel" && $piecrusteye && hasVisited("magiceye1emptymug") != true>>\ “That annoying magic eye won’t let me cross the room,” said Piecrust. “I don’t want to alert Siegfried and his bandits. I wonder if there is a way of disabling that thing.<<if $rosalindaeye>> It did not react to you, which means it can only detect living things. Could you please deal with it?<</if>>” <<elseif $location == "Chamber Of Trials" && hasVisited("Aurelia Confrontation")>>\ “This is bad,” said Piecrust. “Very bad.” <<elseif $location == "Courtroom">>\ “Hang in there, Rosalinda!” exclaimed the mouse. “We’re going to save you!” <<elseif $chasedbyconstruct>>\ “RUN!” cried out Piecrust. “Dodge! I’ll try to help –” The mouse started casting spells, but they bounced off from some invisible barrier surrounding the construct. “Damn it, it’s protected!” <<elseif $activepart == "construct">>\ “You look most impressive, Rosalinda,” said Piecrust, admiring the construct. Rosalinda’s skull grinned. “But I feel incredibly clumsy! Oh – sorry, I nearly stepped on you. These legs, they don’t want to listen!” Piecrust squeaked and scurried to the other side of the chamber. <<elseif hasVisited("Old man talk") && hasVisited("Siegfried guards") != true>>\ “Aurelia has shown the captives an illusion when they were being led to the dig site,” said Piecrust. “They believe there are many more guards up in the ruins. This complicates things. We could maybe deal with the two bandits here and, assuming it would not alert Aurelia, lead the captives out. But, as things are, they’re too scared to run away.” <<elseif hasVisited("Aurelia casts spell on Siegfried")>>\ “So, my colleague Aurelia is behind this,” said Piecrust. “I wonder for how long she has been planning all this. Hiring ruffians and an actor to play a ‘warlock’ and help her hide her identity. Kidnapping people to work at her dig site. Just how ruthless is she?” <<elseif $location == "Inside the Coach">>\ <<if $piecrustasked>>\ <<= either("“Curse it!” muttered Piecrust, paying little attention to Rosalinda. “I knew the right spell – one to make horses run like the wind. Why can’t I remember it?”", "“You’re not a bad man, Albert,” said Piecrust. “I just want you to know that in case they get us. I’ve already forgiven you for working with Gustav.”", "“My tower! My poor tower!” cried Piecrust. “Oh, it’s nothing but bad news today. And what happened to Poppy?”", "“We must focus on stopping the Chosen, Rosalinda,” said the mouse. “Any ideas? We should hurry, they’re getting awfully close.”")>> <<else>><<set $piecrustasked to true>>\ “What should we do, Piecrust?” asked Rosalinda, certain the mouse had the escape plan figured out. “Once we’ve shaken them off, we should go to Theodore’s – my – tower. It has an array of magical safeguards, so…” Albert cleared his throat. “Sorry, Mister Mouse. Won’t do. That tower of yours went down in flames a few months ago. I think the Chosen were fighting some demons there, or something. So, any other plans?” Piecrust looked at the old man in shock. His whiskers twitched. “It… burned? My tower? My research?” He started making strange, squeaky noises. Rosalinda thought he had to be crying. “Uh… Sorry to bring the bad news. But right now, maybe get a hold of yourself and use your magic to stop the Chosen? Me and my brother are going to land in a heap of trouble we were NOT looking for, unless you do something.” “It’s hopeless. All my research gone,” muttered Piecrust, lost in thoughts. “I’ll stay a mouse forever. Although… maybe if I speak to another wizard… but whom? Perhaps Drax? Or Aurelia?” <</if>>\ <<elseif $location == "On the Roof of the Coach">>\ <<= either("“Curse it!” muttered Piecrust, paying little attention to Rosalinda. “I knew the right spell – one to make horses run like the wind. Why can’t I remember it?”", "“You’re not a bad man, Albert,” said Piecrust. “I just want you to know that in case they get us. I’ve already forgiven you for working with Gustav.”", "“My tower! My poor tower!” cried Piecrust. “Oh, it’s nothing but bad news today. And what happened to Poppy?”", ""“We must focus on stopping the Chosen, Rosalinda,” said the mouse. “Any ideas? We should hurry, they’re getting awfully close.”")>> <<else>>\ Piecrust, the wizard in the body of a mouse, looked at <<partfullname>> questioningly. <<if $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<if $crystalrosalinda && $crystalpiecrust && $crystaldiscussed != true && hasVisited("Chased by Catfish") != true>>\ <<set $crystaldiscussed to true>>\ “I’ve been thinking about that black crystal at the bottom of the lake,” said Piecrust. “It is an ancient artefact, and I think it suppresses magic all around it. If we had it, we would stand a better chance against our enemy.” “The problem is, the crystal also affects the magic reanimating my bones,” replied Rosalinda. “When I approached it, I felt like I was going to faint. I think I would fall apart if I touched it.” “If my theory is correct, the crystal only works inside the golden cage – I’ll be calling it ‘the amplifier’. If we find a way of opening the cage, it should be safe to touch the crystal.” <<elseif $crystalrosalinda && $crystaldiscussed != true && hasVisited("Chased by Catfish") != true>>\ “There is some magical contraption at the bottom of the lake, Piecrust,” said Rosalinda. “A black crystal suspended in a cage of gold. When I approached it, I felt like I was going to faint.” Piecrust’s whiskers twitched. “That is very curious indeed. I’ll have to investigate that device.” <<elseif $crystalpiecrust && $crystaldiscussed != true && hasVisited("Chased by Catfish") != true>>\ <<set $crystaldiscussed to true>>\ “I’ve found an interesting device at the bottom of the lake,” he said. “It is a black crystal in a golden cage. I think it suppresses magic all around it. I think there might be a way to use it against our enemy, who has much more magical power than me.” <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Chased by Catfish") && $catfishdiscussed != true && hasVisited("monstrouscatfishbitterherring") != true>>\ <<set $catfishdiscussed to true>>\ “Bad news,” said Piecrust. “I have extracted a magical crystal from the cage at the bottom of the lake, but it was eaten by a catfish the size of a barn. If we want that crystal, and we do, we must get it out of the fish, somehow.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" $return>><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Fish Appears") && $cageopened>>\ <<unset $cageopened>>\ Piecrust cast the spell and the golden cage closed, the two halves joining tightly. But because the cage was empty, nothing more happened. <<link "Continue" "At the Bottom of the Lake">><</link>> <<elseif hasVisited("Fish Appears")>>\ <<set $cageopened to true>>\ Piecrust cast the spell and the golden cage opened, its top half rising and freezing in place several feet above the bottom half. <<link "Continue" "At the Bottom of the Lake">><</link>> <<else>><<set $cageopened to true>>\ Piecrust cast the spell from the ancient scroll. A stream of light shot towards the golden cage. The spell worked perfectly, even though Piecrust could still sense the magic-dampening aura of the crystal. The cage shook. The line in the middle started to shine brightly. Then, the top half of the cage rose in a perfectly straight line. “It works!” thought Piecrust with excitement. But before he could truly celebrate, many things happened at once. <<link "Continue" "Fish Appears">><</link>> <</if>>\

The bottom of the lake shook. The black crystal was flushed out of the open cage and started to drift away. Piecrust looked in terror as something old and horrible rose from beneath the plaza, digging its way through the mud and breaking stone tiles. It was an enormous catfish, at least thirty feet long. The monster thrashed about, hungry after its long sleep. It opened its cavernous mouth and started sucking in water. Piecrust felt the suction drawing him close to the terrible maw. Panicked, he tried to swim away, but couldn’t. The monster was like a whirlpool, consuming everything – fish and plants, mud, stone tiles, and unfortunate mice. And magical crystals. Struggling against the vortex, Piecrust watched the black octahedron swirling in the vortex, then disappearing in the creature’s gullet. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "Chased by Catfish">><<set $hidebody to true>><<set $hidelarm to true>><<set $hiderarm to true>><<set $hideskull to true>><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ Piecrust was trapped in a vortex, sucked in by a monstrous, hungry catfish. He watched in terror as the <<object "gaping maw">> was getting closer and closer. Smaller fish, plants, rocks and everything that happened to be nearby disappeared in the cavernous mouth of the monster. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ \ <<link "Swim towards the surface">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust desperately tried to swim away, but was too weak to resist the suction.">><</link>>\ \

Using a fire spell underwater seemed like a foolish idea, but Piecrust was out of options. A stream of bubbles escaped his mouth as he recited the incantation. Instead of fire, boiling water shot out from his paws. The catfish shuddered. Burns appeared on its skin where the scalding stream hit it. It turned and swam away, sending Piecrust hurtling towards the surface as it stirred the water with its massive tail. Piecrust swam for his life until he reached the shore. He crawled out of the water, exhausted and shivering. He then looked around and saw the giant catfish settling down in the shallow water the other side of the lake and going to sleep. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><<unset $hidebody, $hidelarm, $hiderarm, $hideskull>><</link>>

<<run $inventory.delete("largestone")>>\ Rosalinda dropped the stone onto the creature’s head. The catfish moved and opened one eye, annoyed at its slumber being disrupted. Then, it just went back to sleep. “It’s one thick-skulled fish,” thought Rosalinda. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("By the Standing Stones")>><<set _movestones to "Go west [->By the Standing Stones]">><<else>><<set _movestones to "Go west">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Ruined Courtyard")>><<set _movecourtyard to "Go north [->Ruined Courtyard]">><<else>><<set _movecourtyard to "Go north">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was on the forest road which led south towards the crashed coach and north, deeper into Archwood. A narrow path led west through the underbrush, marked by <<object "recently trampled shrubs">>. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go south [->Near Crashed Coach]">><<moveto "Near Crashed Coach">><</link>> <<link _movecourtyard>><<moveto "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>> <<link _movestones>><<moveto "By the Standing Stones">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<if hasVisited("The team captures bandits") != true && hasVisited("Siegfried guards")>><<goto "The team captures bandits">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Courtyard Intro") != true>><<goto "Courtyard Intro">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("The Edge of the Pit")>><<set _movepit to "Go north [->The Edge of the Pit]">><<else>><<set _movepit to "Go north">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Stables")>><<set _movestables to "Go west to the stone building [->Stables]">><<else>><<set _movestables to "Go west to the stone building">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards")>>in<<else>>hidden at the edge of<</if>> a ruined courtyard. <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards") != true>>\ Two <<object "bandit guards">> were sitting in the middle of the courtyard.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("brightcampfireWaterJet")>>There was an <<object "extinguished campfire">> nearby.<<else>>A <<object "bright campfire">> was burning close by, illuminating the area.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Albert helps Norbert")>> <<object "Albert2">>, <<object "Norbert1">> and <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk") != true && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk2") != true>><<link "Osmund" "Piecrust Osmund First Talk2">><</link>><<else>><<object "Osmund3">><</if>> were in the courtyard<<if hasVisited("The team captures bandits")>>, watching over two <<object "bound bandits">> lying on the ground.<<else>>.<</if>> <<object "Daisy and Bella0">> were grazing on a small patch of grass nearby. <<elseif $osmundmoved>>\ <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards")>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk") != true && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk2") != true>><<link "Osmund" "Piecrust Osmund First Talk2">><</link>><<else>><<object "Osmund2">><</if>> was standing near the extinguished campfire. <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk") != true && hasVisited("Piecrust Osmund First Talk2") != true>><<link "Osmund" "Piecrust Osmund First Talk2">><</link>><<else>><<object "Osmund2">><</if>> was hiding in the shadow of the trees at the edge of the forest, watching the bandit guards. <</if>><</if>>\ A large <<object "elephant statue">> on a marble base was towering over the courtyard. Behind the statue, a <<object "luxurious carriage">> was standing abandoned. Further west, there was a small stone building. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go south [->On the Forest Road]">><<moveto "On the Forest Road">><</link>> <<link _movepit>><<if $activepart == "body" && hasVisited("Deal with Guards") != true>><<goto "Guards Chase Rosalinda">><<else>><<moveto "The Edge of the Pit">><</if>><</link>> <<link _movestables>><<if $activepart == "body" && hasVisited("Deal with Guards") != true>><<set $tostables to true>><<goto "Guards Chase Rosalinda">><<else>><<moveto "Stables">><</if>><</link>> <<if hasVisited("The Room in The Elephant")>>\ <<link "Go inside the elephant statue [->The Room in The Elephant]">><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<moveto "The Room in The Elephant">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> was too big to fit through the small hole in the elephant’s eye.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<partfullname>> followed the forest road to what seemed like the edge of Archwood. No, realised <<partfullname>> after a brief moment of surprise. It was not a village beyond the woods, with lights flickering in the windows of the houses, but a large clearing full of ruined buildings. Tall dark trees surrounded it on all sides. In front of <<partfullname>> there was a paved courtyard where two armed men sat around a fire. Further north, a large pit loomed in the distance, lit by torches. There were tunnel entrances in the earthen walls of the pit, and ramps leading down. <<partfullname>> stayed in the shadow of the trees and watched the two guards. “Where are those idiots?” one of them asked the other. “They were supposed to relieve us a long time ago.” “Got lost in the woods, probably. Or captured by the Chosen,” replied his companion. “I’m telling you, there’s going to be trouble. The Chosen will come here looking for their friend. Siegfried should have killed her.” “I think he hopes to make her work in the pit. Any extra pair of hands is good, as far as I’m concerned. That way, he won’t send us there.” “The Chosen nearly choked me out when we were putting her in the dungeon. I still say we should kill her. The ogre can work three times as hard, and is as meek as a lamb. Now, that was a catch!” “Agreed.” “But I keep wondering – what were they all looking for here? You’ll see, there will be trouble.” The other ruffian shrugged. “Siegfried’s magic is powerful. An entire army of Chosen can’t take him on here. Just one spell and – poof! – they’re running around screaming and wetting their pants.” The two started laughing, but one quickly grew serious. “I hope he’ll never use that spell on us again,” he said. “Why would he, as long as we’re doing our job?” “Right now, we’re doing Crag and Pest’s job. Damn those idiots! Hey, put more wood in the fire. I’m getting cold, and I feel like –” “Like what?” asked his companion, throwing a log in the fire. “– ah, it’s probably nothing. Who would be watching us, after all?” <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

"“Sounds like a plan,” agreed Osmund and cleared his throat. “H-hey!” he shouted, doing his best impression of his kidnapper. “I-it’s me, Crag!” The guards jumped to their feet. “Finally! What took you so long? Come here so we can go eat something, you lazy bum!” Then, they grew suspicious. “If it’s really you, where’s Pest? Come closer so we can take a good look at you.<<if $ruse>> If you’re one of the ghosts trying to confuse us, I swear, I’ll give you a good beating!”<</if>> Osmund stepped towards the bandits, and Rosalinda followed. The thick smoke obscured their silhouettes. “Looks like it’s them,” decided one of the guards. “I don’t know,” said the other. “Was Pest always this thin?” “Come on, who else could be wandering around here like a pair of idiots in the middle of the night?” the first bandit said impatiently. “What took you so long?” “We got lost in the forest after chasing a Chosen,” explained Osmund. “Another Chosen? And, let me guess, you let them escape so that they go and fetch some friends?” “Uh… no. No, we killed him,” said Osmund, his voice trembling a little. “Good. But that still doesn’t mean I forgive you. I would kick your sorry behinds if I wasn’t so hungry.” He gestured to the other guard. “Come on, let’s go. You two stay here and keep watch. And relight that bloody fire.” The guards quickly walked away towards the edge of the pit, then down an earthen ramp, until they disappeared in a tunnel entrance. <<link "Continue" "Deal with Guards 2">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was inside the elephant statue. There was a lot of debris around. Inside the curve of the elephant’s belly, there was a <<object "skeleton">>, yellowed with age. A crumbling <<object "scroll of parchment">> was lying next to it. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<link "Exit through the elephant’s eye [->Ruined Courtyard]">><<moveto "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>> <<fasttravel>>

<<if hasVisited("brightcampfireWaterJet")>>\ The two bandits were afraid, but unwilling to abandon their post. One desperately tried to relight the campfire, while the other was looking around. Both were coughing from the smoke. <<if $ruse>>\ <<= either("“Hurry up, will you?” growled the lookout. “Things may be sneaking up on us right now!”", "“Damn! Light up, damn you!” cursed the bandit bent over the campfire.", "“When Master Siegfried learns about this, we’re done for,” groaned one of the guards. “We’ll be done for much sooner if the thing that put out the fire is still here,” replied the other.", "“I swear I’ve heard something,” one of the guards said nervously. “Do you think those voices that pretended to be Crag and Pest are creeping up on us right now?”")>> <<else>>\ <<= either("“Hurry up, will you?” growled the lookout. “Things may be sneaking up on us right now!”", "“Damn! Light up, damn you!” cursed the bandit bent over the campfire.", "“When Master Siegfried learns about this, we’re done for,” groaned one of the guards. “We’ll be done for much sooner if the thing that put out the fire is still here,” replied the other.")>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "Pretend to be Crag and Pest, and tell the guards you’re here to relieve them">><<set $ruse to true>><<makepopuppass "" "banditsskullorbody">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ The two bandits were on high alert, watching the courtyard, the edge of the forest road and the pit. <<if $ruse>>\ <<= either("“I’m hungry,” complained one of the bandits. “Crag and Pest should have relieved us a long time ago!” “Do you think they escaped? That worm Pest told me the ruins scared him to death.” “He’d be too afraid to escape.”", "“I don’t like this whole situation,” one of the bandits said. “The Chosen now know we’re here.” “They don’t,” replied him companion. “It was just one lost patrol, for sure, and we took care of them all. No one’s ever going to learn what happened to them.”", "“I hate this place,” said one of the bandits. “Dark, cold, and creepy. I hope they’re going to dig up the thing soon.” “I don’t like it either, but Master Siegfried pays well. Hey, at least we don’t have to toil down in the pit!”", "“What do you think Master Siegfried is after?” asked one of the guards the other. “Gold? Gemstones? Some things wizards like?” “I hope it’s money, but something tells me I’m better off not knowing.”", "“Where are those two?” one of the guards asked angrily. “I’m going to starve to death if they don’t show up soon. Did they get lost?”", "“When Crag and Pest finally show up, I’m going to give them a piece of my mind,” growled one of the bandits.", "“I’ve never wanted to leave the post more,” said one of the guards. “This place is haunted, and there’s ghosts talking to us, pretending to be Crag and Pest.” “Or it’s Master Siegfried, testing our resolve. If we leave and he learns about it…” The bandits exchanged terrified looks.", "“I wonder what those voices were,” said one of the bandits. “I don’t,” replied his companion. “I don’t even want to think about them. I just hope they’re no longer watching us.”")>> <<else>>\ <<= either("“I’m hungry,” complained one of the bandits. “Crag and Pest should have relieved us a long time ago!” “Do you think they escaped? That worm Pest told me the ruins scared him to death.” “He’d be too afraid to escape.”", "“I don’t like this whole situation,” one of the bandits said. “The Chosen now know we’re here.” “They don’t,” replied him companion. “It was just one lost patrol, for sure, and we took care of them all. No one’s ever going to learn what happened to them.”", "“I hate this place,” said one of the bandits. “Dark, cold, and creepy. I hope they’re going to dig up the thing soon.” “I don’t like it either, but Master Siegfried pays well. Hey, at least we don’t have to toil down in the pit!”", "“What do you think Master Siegfried is after?” asked one of the guards the other. “Gold? Gemstones? Some things wizards like?” “I hope it’s money, but something tells me I’m better off not knowing.”", "“Where are those two?” one of the guards asked angrily. “I’m going to starve to death if they don’t show up soon. Did they get lost?”", "“When Crag and Pest finally show up, I’m going to give them a piece of my mind,” growled one of the bandits.")>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "Pretend to be Crag and Pest, and tell the guards you’re here to relieve them">><<set $ruse to true>><<makepopuptext "" "“Hey, it’s me! Pest!” shouted Rosalinda from the shadows. “I’m here with Crag. We’ll take over. Go eat something.” The guards jumped to their feet; for a brief moment, they looked relieved, but they soon started glancing around with suspicion. “This didn’t sound like Pest at all,” one of them said. “More like a hoarse lady. Hey, you! Come closer so we can take a good look at you!” Rosalinda stayed quiet. “I don’t like it one bit,” one of the bandits said after a long silence.“I think these ruins are haunted. I wish Crag and Pest actually showed up and we could go, and leave them here with the ghosts.” “Don’t say that word,” asked the other guard, shaking.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<partfullname>> quickly explained the issue. <<if hasVisited("Osmund1sword") && hasVisited("Osmund1lantern")>><<set $osmundmoved to true>>\ “So, they’re holding everyone prisoner in the ruins?” said Osmund. “A-all right. I’ll go there. I don’t know if I can defeat both of them, but we have to try something.” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Wait, you hothead! What if they sound alarm? We need a plan to do this quietly. Go and wait at the edge of the courtyard until Rosalinda or I tell you to make a move, understood?” <<else>>\ “Wait, Osmund!” said Rosalinda. “I don’t want you to risk your life charging at them. We must distract them and deal with them quietly. Please, wait at the edge of the courtyard. We’ll figure out a plan and work together to scare the guards away, or knock them out, all right?” <</if>>\ Osmund nodded. He looked relieved. “I’ll be waiting for you, then.” He headed north, sword in hand, lighting his way with the lantern. <<elseif hasVisited("Osmund1sword")>>\ “So, they’re holding everyone prisoner in the ruins?” said Osmund. “We have to rescue them! But… the forest is very dark. I won’t find my way without some light.” <<elseif hasVisited("Osmund1lantern")>>\ “So, they’re holding everyone prisoner in the ruins?” said Osmund. “We have to rescue them! But… I don’t want to wander the forest without a weapon. If it comes down to a fight, I won’t be of much use unarmed.” <<else>>\ “So, they’re holding everyone prisoner in the ruins?” said Osmund. “We have to rescue them! But… I need some light to find my way in the forest, and a weapon, should it come down to a fight. I’m afraid I won’t be of much use unarmed.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Small Clearing">><</link>>

Piecrust had to come into the circle of light to reach the campfire with his spell, but no one noticed him – he was a mouse, after all. He whispered the incantation and summoned a mighty stream of water, which hit the campfire. The flames hissed. A cloud of steam appeared. The guards shouted out in surprise and jumped back. A moment later, the campfire was just a pile of blackened, smoking wood. <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Lit Corridor")>><<set _movecorridor to "Go east [->Lit Corridor]">><<else>><<set _movecorridor to "Go east">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Columned Hall")>><<set _movehall to "Go north [->Columned Hall]">><<else>><<set _movehall to "Go north">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was at the edge of a large pit. Its walls looked like a cross-section of a <<object "buried city">>, with stone walls and dark openings emerging from among the dirt and tangled roots. The pit itself looked old and was overgrown with shrubs, but the earthen ramp leading to the lowest level was fresh. At the bottom, there was an open wooden door to the east, leading into a well-lit stone corridor, and<<if hasVisited("Open tall gate")>> an open gate in the rock face to the north, through which a columned hall of grand proportions could be seen<<else>> a <<object "tall gate">> in the rock face to the north<</if>>. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go south [->Ruined Courtyard]">><<moveto "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>> <<link _movecorridor>><<moveto "Lit Corridor">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Open tall gate")>>\ <<link _movehall>><<moveto "Columned Hall">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<if hasVisited("brightcampfireWaterJet")>>\ Rosalinda tried to slip past the guards and <<if $tostables>>reach the small building<<unset $tostables>><<else>>reach the edge of the pit<</if>>, hoping the smoke will hide her from view. She was in the middle of the courtyard, when she heard a shout: “What’s that noise? Look! There’s someone there! Get them!” The bandits leaped to their feet and chased after Rosalinda, swinging their clubs. Rosalinda turned back and fled into the forest. <<else>>\ Rosalinda tried to slip past the guards and <<if $tostables>>reach the small building<<unset $tostables>><<else>>reach the edge of the pit<</if>>, but as soon as she stepped out of the shadows of the trees, one of the bandits called out: “Intruder! Get them!” The two leaped to their feet and chased after Rosalinda, swinging their clubs. Rosalinda turned back and fled into the forest. <</if>> <<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ The bandits stopped and exchanged confused looks. “What on earth was that?” asked one of them. “A spy, probably. We did good chasing it away.” “Funny, because I thought it looked like a skeleton.” “Don’t be silly.” There was a moment of silence. “Do you think it could be Archwood, getting angry at us?” “Shut up. Just shut up. It was a spy, or someone lost in the forest.” “Well, if it’s a spy, shouldn’t we chase after them and finish them off?” The guards looked at each other, their faces slowly losing colour. “You can go if you want to,” one of them said. “I’ll stay. Someone has to man the post.” “No, no, you can go. My knee hurts, you know.” “Left or right?” “Left. Why do you ask?” “Because, and it’s quite funny, my right knee hurts like hell. I can’t go chasing after spies with that knee.” “Okay, let’s leave it at that, then. The spy will die in the woods anyway.” “Just in case, we can report it to Master Siegfried.” “And tell him we let the spy escape? No, thank you very much. Besides, my knee hurts so much I’m sure I couldn’t even walk down the tunnel.” “Me too.” They both sat back down by the campfire. <<default>>\ “I’m sure it was that damned spy again!” growled one of the bandits. “Why won’t they leave us alone? Next time, I’ll be ready and smash their head!” <</switch>>\ <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

A weathered metal statue, almost life-size, of an elephant was staring into the distance with empty eye holes, which likely used to hold gemstones, stolen a long time ago.<<if hasVisited("brightcampfireWaterJet") != true>> The statue was casting a long shadow over the courtyard. <</if>> There was a tablet on its pedestal with some words written on it<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>. They were in an ancient script and tongue, and it took Piecrust a while to decipher them. “Tomb of a thief and traitor,” he read.<<else>>, but Rosalinda did not recognise the language or the letters.<</if>> <<link "Go through the hole in the statue’s eye">><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<run Dialog.close()>><<moveto "The Room in The Elephant">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> was too big to fit through the small hole.">><</if>><</link>>

<<if $spells.includes("ActivateMechanism")>>\ Piecrust already knew the ancient spell written on the parchment. <<else>>\ <<run $spells.push("ActivateMechanism")>>\ Piecrust read the words written on the scroll. To his delight, it contained a spell – an incantation to “turn on and off works of artifice”. “A spell for activating mechanisms! There must have been many magical contraptions in Archwall, and this is a chant to control them, ‘even in the environment of anti-magic’. No wonder the mages got angry at the commoner who stole the parchment and deemed them a ‘traitor’. How lucky for me they decided to bury them with the stolen treasure! I wonder how many artefacts have survived here that I’ll be able to activate.” He reminded himself he had to be cautious – after all, the ancient wizards of Archwall were evil and corrupt, and he didn’t want to set off some destructive mechanism. This, however, did not diminish his excitement at the find. Piecrust can now cast the Activate Mechanism spell! <</if>>

<<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards") != true && hasVisited("brightcampfireWaterJet")>>\ “What do we do now?” asked the novice. <<if $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "<<partfullname>> told him to pretend he was Pest or Crag, and came to relieve the guards.">><<set $ruse to true>><<makepopuptext "" "“Sounds like a plan,” agreed Osmund and cleared his throat. “H-hey!” he shouted, doing his best impression of his kidnapper. “I-it’s me, Crag!” The guards jumped to their feet. “Finally! What took you so long? Come here so we can go eat something, you lazy bum!” Osmund started walking towards the guards, who stared at his silhouette, trying to identify him through the thick smoke. “Is that really you? Wait – where’s Pest? That coward doesn’t leave you for one moment!” Osmund realised he was about to get exposed, and he ran back into the forest before the bandits could attack him. “I’m sorry,” he whispered to Rosalinda’s skull. “I think we need two people to fool them.">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "<<partfullname>> told him they should pretend they’re Pest and Crag, and came to relieve the guards." "Deal with Guards">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<elseif hasVisited("Deal with Guards") != true>>\ “What do we do now?” asked the novice. <<if $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "<<partfullname>> told him to pretend he was Pest or Crag, and came to relieve the guards.">><<set $ruse to true>><<makepopuptext "" "“Sounds like a plan,” agreed Osmund and cleared his throat. “H-hey!” he shouted, doing his best impression of his kidnapper. “I-it’s me, Crag!” The guards jumped to their feet. “Finally! What took you so long? Come here so we can go eat something, you lazy bum!” Osmund could not come into the circle of light – his ruse would be over. He stayed in the shadows and tried to convince the guards to leave, but they grew suspicious. “Why won’t you show yourself? And where’s Pest?” Osmund’s nervousness got the better of him, and he ran back into the forest. “I’m sorry,” he whispered to Rosalinda’s skull. “I think we need two people to fool them. The light from the fire isn’t helping, either.”">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "<<partfullname>> told him they should pretend they’re Pest and Crag, and came to relieve the guards.">><<set $ruse to true>><<makepopuptext "" "“Sounds like a plan,” agreed Osmund and cleared his throat. “H-hey!” he shouted, doing his best impression of his kidnapper. “I-it’s me, Crag!” The guards jumped to their feet. “Finally! What took you so long? Come here so we can go eat something, you lazy bum!” Neither Osmund, nor Rosalinda could come into the circle of light – their ruse would be over. They stayed in the shadows, Osmund trying to talk the guards into leaving. The bandits, however, grew suspicious. “Why are you stopping there? And where’s Pest?” “I’m here!” mumbled Rosalinda, hiding behind Osmund, hoping to conceal her skeletal nature. “Is it really you?” asked one of the guards. “Come closer, so that we can take a look!” Osmund’s nervousness got the better of him, and he ran back into the forest before the bandits could attack him. Rosalinda followed. “This will never work with the fire lighting up the area!” whispered Osmund.">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Everything has been quiet around here,” reported Osmund. “Have you figured out how to free your friends and the Captain?” <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “I’ll think of something,” promised Piecrust. “I’m a wizard, after all.” <</if>>\

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a small stone building used as a stable. It was little more than three walls and the roof, with some straw scattered on the floor. There were two <<object "white horses">> tied to a stone post in the stable. <<if hasVisited("Get shovel") != true>>A <<object "metal shovel">> was propped against the wall.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Exit the stables [->Ruined Courtyard]">><<moveto "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<if hasVisited("Storage Room")>><<set _movestorage to "Go north [->Storage Room]">><<else>><<set _movestorage to "Go north">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a stone corridor at the bottom of the pit. The walls of the corridor were covered with reliefs, smoothed out with age, and lit with torches. To the west, an open door led outside, into the pit. To the north, there was another wooden door, standing ajar. Unlike the walls of the corridor, the doors looked rather new.<<if hasVisited("Find Barrel") != true && $activepart == "piecrust">> Piecrust could smell something smoky and appetising in the room to the north.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go west [->The Edge of the Pit]">><<moveto "The Edge of the Pit">><</link>> <<link _movestorage>><<moveto "Storage Room">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a storage room, which was mostly empty. There were some <<object "planks of wood">> lying around, probably used to support the freshly dug tunnels in the ruins. <<if hasVisited("Find Barrel") != true && $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust could smell the planks, but also something else, something more appetising. Smoky and fishy, and coming from <<link "behind a large, vertically placed plank" "Find Barrel">><</link>>. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Find Barrel") && hasVisited("Remove Plank") != true>>\ There was one vertical plank in the room, fitted tightly between the stones in the wall. There was a <<object "hole">> in the plank. <<elseif hasVisited("Find Barrel")>>\ There was a small alcove in the room, in which someone has hidden a wooden <<object "barrel">>. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go south [->Lit Corridor]">><<moveto "Lit Corridor">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

“I can’t believe it worked!” whispered Osmund excitedly. “You played your part well,” replied Rosalinda. “What should we do now? They must be keeping everyone prisoner in that pit.” “I’ll try to find a way to free them,” said Rosalinda. “Even if I get caught, they can’t do much to harm me. You stay here and be careful.” The novice looked disappointed for a moment, but then nodded in agreement. “Right. I would only get in the way. But I’ll try to be helpful. I’ll keep watch here.” <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

<<partfullname>> entered a dimly lit, stone hall with rows of columns and quickly hid behind one of them when <<if $activepart == "body">>she<<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>he<<else>>it<</if>> realised <<if $activepart == "body">>she<<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>he<<else>>it<</if>> wasn’t alone. Further down the hall, a thin man with black hair and a well-groomed goatee was scolding the bandits who had been guarding the courtyard earlier. Two steps behind him, a person in a grey cloak, with hood pulled down, was watching silently. Further still, a man with his head hung low was sweeping the floors, paying little attention to the scene. “Sleeping on the job, were you?” the bearded man said in a voice dripping with contempt. “This must be Siegfried!” thought <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust<<else>>Rosalinda<</if>>. The man looked exactly like most people would imagine a warlock: a commanding presence, cold eyes and a black robe with pointy shoulders. “We-we’re sorry, Master Siegfried!” cried one of the bandits. “But Pest and Crag came back to relieve us. We need some rest and–” “Enough. I told you to come to the dig site as soon as those two came back, and now I caught you sleeping behind a column.” “Please forgive us.” The warlock turned to his hooded companion and listened for a moment, then nodded. “A valid observation.” He addressed the bandits again. “I will forgive you, but I believe you need a brief lesson to regain lost motivation.” He gestured wildly and recited some words <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust<<else>>Rosalinda<</if>> did not understand. The bandits screamed and started to back off, but before they could get away, the spell took effect. One bandit dropped to his knees, clutching his head and sobbing. The other started running around in circles, shouting “They’re here! They’re here!” Siegfried looked at them, his face not betraying any emotions. Eventually, he gestured again. The running bandit stopped, panting heavily. His companion slowly rose from the ground. “Let that be a lesson,” said the warlock. “From now on, you’re doing exactly what you are told. Now come. You have to watch over the prisoners. My apprentice has other business to attend to.” He marched down the hall, the hooded figure following closely behind. The bandits exchanged terrified looks and hobbled after them in silence. A moment later, the cranking of some mechanism and creaking of wood could be heard; in the dark end of the hall, <<partfullname>> could barely notice a drawbridge being risen. <<link "Continue" "Columned Hall">><</link>>

Piecrust hasn’t eaten in a few hours, which to a mouse almost equalled starving. When he caught the scent of food, all thoughts evaporated from his mind. He had to find it, quickly. He ran towards the plank and realised it was pushed into an opening in the stone wall to cover something behind. He checked the left and the right side, climbed up and tried to crawl below – but the plank fitted tightly. He could not pass through. Frustrated, he noticed a large knot in the middle of the plank. He climbed to it and pushed – and the knot fell out easily. Piecrust jumped through the hole and found himself in a hidden alcove, where someone had stashed a whole barrel of smoked herring. The barrel was covered with the lid, but there were enough carelessly dropped bits of herring on the floor to fill a mouse’s belly. Piecrust ate until he was full. Then, he sighed with content. He was still in a terrible situation, and so were his friends, but his mood just got much better. He climbed out of the alcove with a positive, welcoming attitude towards the entire world – then he remembered he was up against a powerful mage. <<link "Continue" "Storage Room">><</link>>

There was a hole in the wood plank, through which one could see a dark space on the other side. <<if $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Go through the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "Unfortunately, the hole was just large enough for two fingers – maybe three, if they were just bone – to fit through, but not for an entire arm.">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Go through the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust considered going for a second helping, but he decided not to. He wasn’t hungry at the moment, and the herrings were so potent he still felt as if he was biting on solidified smoke.">><</link>>\ <</if>> <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Remove the plank to uncover the hidden space" "Remove Plank">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart != "piecrust">>\ <<link "Remove the plank to uncover the hidden space">><<makepopuptext "" "The plank was large and heavy. Rosalinda reckoned one would need a body and a pair of arms to put it to the side.">><</link>>\ <</if>>\

The barrel in the alcove was half-full of smoked herrings. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Eat some">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust though about that, but decided not to. He needed focus, and being too full would interfere with that. Besides, he could still taste smoke on his tongue.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Take a herring">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda wondered if her skull could pick up a herring with its teeth. She decided not to try after all, for fear she would fall into the barrel and get all oily and smelly.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<if $herringtaken>>\ <<link "Take a herring">><<makepopuptext "" "“I’ve already taken one,” thought Rosalinda. “That should be enough for… well, whatever purpose I’m going to need it for.”">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Take a herring" "Get Herring">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\

Rosalinda put her fingers through the opening and pulled, then supported the heavy plank with the other hand when it started to fall out. It was a clumsy job, but she managed to pull it out and prop it against the wall nearby, revealing a small alcove with a barrel inside. Surprised, she opened the barrel and found it to be full of smoked herrings. “Who keeps their smoked herrings in a place like this?” she wondered. <<link "Continue" "Storage Room">><</link>>

<<getitemfromdescription "smokedherring" "smoked herring">><<set $herringtaken to true>>\ <<partfullname>> reached into the barrel and fished out one smoked herring. <<partfullname>> _desc <<link "Continue" "Storage Room">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in the belly of the giant catfish. The place was dark and claustrophobic. Remains of half-digested fish were floating around. The black crystal was surely somewhere there, too, but <<partfullname>> couldn’t find it among all the debris. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<link "Try to climb out">> <<if $activepart == "larm" && $itemlarm == "none" || $activepart == "rarm" && $itemrarm == "none">><<makepopuptext "" "The arm pushed its way out of the stomach and up the monster’s oesophagus. It must have irritated the creature, which jerked violently. The arm slid back into the stomach. “I don’t think the arm will be able to get out on its own,” thought Rosalinda worriedly.">> <<else>><<makepopuptext "" "The arm couldn’t climb up the monster’s oesophagus while holding an item.">><</if>><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<run $inventory.delete("smokedherring")>><<unset $herringtaken>>\ <<if $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>><<run $bodyparts.delete("rarm")>><<set $rarmloc to "In the Belly of the Catfish">><<set $rarmav to true>>\ <<else>><<run $bodyparts.delete("larm")>><<set $larmloc to "In the Belly of the Catfish">><<set $larmav to true>>\ <</if>>\ Rosalinda held the herring with her <<if $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>right<<else>>left<</if>> arm. “Come on! Dinner time! Fishy, fishy, fishy!” She dipped the herring in the water, right above the monster’s giant maw. The catfish shifted and opened its eyes. Then, with one sudden jerk, it lunged forward, ripped out Rosalinda’s arm and swallowed it in a single gulp, together with the herring. Rosalinda jumped back in panic, but the catfish just went back to sleep. “I hoped it would open its mouth for longer and let me grab the crystal,” she thought. “What should I do now?” <<link "Continue" "By the Lakeside">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "rarm">><<set $itemrarm to "none">><<unset $herringtaken>><<set $rarmloc to "In the Belly of the Catfish">>\ <<else>><<set $itemlarm to "none">><<unset $herringtaken>><<set $larmloc to "In the Belly of the Catfish">>\ <</if>>\ <<partfullname>> crawled into the shallow water at the edge of the lake and put the smoked herring right in front of the sleeping monster’s mouth. “Come on! Dinner time! Fishy, fishy, fishy!” The catfish shifted and open its eyes. Then, with one sudden jerk, it lunged forward and swallowed the herring in a single gulp – together with the arm. The arm tumbled into darkness, until it eventually landed in the cramped, debris–filled stomach of the catfish. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "In the Belly of the Catfish">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Arm swallowed")>>\ “If I dangle the herring in front of it, it will just eat my other arm!” thought Rosalinda. “I have to think of something – some way of making it spit everything out.” <<link "Continue" "By the Lakeside">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<goto "Arm swallowed">>\ <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("bitterherring")>>\ <<elseif $activepart =="rarm">><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <</if>>\ <<if $rarmloc == "In the Belly of the Catfish">><<set $itemrarm to "none">><<set $rarmloc to "By the Lakeside">>\ <<elseif $larmloc == "In the Belly of the Catfish">><<set $itemlarm to "none">><<set $larmloc to "By the Lakeside">>\ <</if>>\ <<partfullname>> approached the monstrous catfish sleeping in the shallow water and dangled the herring in front of its mouth. In an instant, the monster opened its eyes and lunged forward.<<if hasVisited("Arm swallowed")>> Rosalinda knew it could move fast, but still, she was caught by surprise by how quick – and voracious – it was.<</if>> It swallowed the herring together with Rosalinda’s arm. <<if hasVisited("Arm swallowed")>>“Well, there goes my other arm,” thought Rosalinda. “I hope this is going to work.”<<else>>“I hope this is going to work,” thought Rosalinda.<</if>> The colossal creature blew a bunch of bubbles and went back to sleep – but then, something started to happen. The catfish contorted, sending waves through the surface of the lake. It opened its mouth and emitted a deep, gurgling noise. Then, it vomited forth a stream of swallowed objects. Bones, dead fish and the black crystal landed on the shore and in the shallow water. The catfish burped loudly. <<partfullname>> could swear it sent <<if $activepart == "body">>her<<else>>it<</if>> a look of disgust, apparently indignant at having been the target of such a nasty trick. It then swam away, diving towards the bottom of the lake, where it buried itself in mud. The waves caused by its departure swept some of the regurgitated objects away. <<partfullname>> reached for the black crystal, but was too slow. The crystal drifted away and sank into the bottom of the lake. <<if hasVisited("Arm swallowed")>>\ At least Rosalinda’s arms weren’t lost – they floated on water and, waving and twitching, managed to reach the shore. <<else>>\ At least Rosalinda’s arm wasn’t lost – it floated on water and, waving and twitching, managed to reach the shore. <</if>>\ <<if $piecrustloc == "By the Lakeside">>\ “Looks like you scared that fish away for good,” said Piecrust, sounding impressed. “That herring must have tasted truly awful. Good job. Now we should simply recover the crystal.” <<else>>\ “Great,” thought Rosalinda. “I think I have to get to the bottom of the lake and recover the black crystal. I hope the fish is not waiting for me there.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "By the Lakeside">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Siegfried Intro") != true>><<goto "Siegfried Intro">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Descending Tunnel")>><<set _movetunnel to "Go north [->Descending Tunnel]">><<else>><<set _movetunnel to "Go north">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ The columned hall was tall and dimly lit, and filled <<partfullname>> with awe. The <<object "stone slabs">> forming the floor, ceiling and walls were very old and cracked. To the south, the hall ended in an open passage leading out, to the pit. To the north, there was a deep chasm with a <<if $drawbridgelowered>>drawbridge<<else>><<object "drawbridge">><</if>>. <<if $drawbridgelowered>>The drawbridge was lowered, allowing passage to the other side of the <<object "chasm">> and an earthen tunnel.<<else>>The drawbridge was up. Both it and a <<object "lever">> connected to the mechanism which operated the bridge were on the northern side of the <<object "chasm">>. Beyond the drawbridge, there was an entrance to an earthen tunnel.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Send Albert to Norbert") != true>>\ <<if $casting || $using>><<object "Albert0">><<else>><<link "Albert" "Talk to Albert">><</link>><</if>> was sweeping the floors south of the drawbridge. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go south [->The Edge of the Pit]">><<moveto "The Edge of the Pit">><</link>> <<link _movetunnel>><<if $drawbridgelowered>><<moveto "Descending Tunnel">><<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust climbed the wall of the hall. The slabs making the wall were chamfered at the edges, and there was a small ledge where two of them met – a perfect way across the chasm for a tiny mouse.">><<moveto "Descending Tunnel">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "With the drawbridge up and the chasm blocking the way, <<partfullname>> couldn’t reach the northern end of the hall.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

<<if hasVisited("Running Norbert Intro") != true>><<goto "Running Norbert Intro">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a small clearing. In the middle of the clearing, on a patch of dirt with no grass, there was a circle of standing stones. <<if hasVisited("Albert helps Norbert") != true>>\ <<object "Norbert0">> was chasing <<object "Daisy and Bella">> around the stone circle, screaming and shouting. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Send Albert to Norbert") && hasVisited("Albert helps Norbert") != true>> <<object "Albert1">> stood to the side, with a raised torch, watching his brother’s madness with terror. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go east [->On the Forest Road]">><<moveto "On the Forest Road">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

The path led among trees taller than cathedral columns, until it reached a clearing, almost completely covered with a lacy canopy of intertwined, leafless branches. In the middle of the clearing there was a circle of mossy standing stones. Around the stones, two horses were running from a screaming madman. The horses were tired and could barely trod; the man stumbled, shouted and cursed. And so they went on, around and around, oblivious to their surroundings. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust<<else>>Rosalinda<</if>> immediately recognised Norbert. He looked like he was possessed, staring into the void with unseeing eyes. He lost his hat and his cloak was all tattered and torn, but he was clutching his whip, cracking it in the air occasionally. He was running after his horses, Daisy and Bella, who seemed to be under a magic spell as well – why else would they be scared of the man they knew so well? <<link "Continue" "By the Standing Stones">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Send Albert to Norbert")>>\ Norbert was not himself, that was certain. He seemed to be living through a horrible nightmare. One moment he cursed at his horses and swore revenge upon them. The next, he begged them not to leave him alone with all the monsters and ghouls. “He’s gone completely crazy,” said Albert, watching his brother with a puzzled expression. “If I don’t do something, he’s going to run until he collapses and dies.” <<if $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "“You should go and talk to him. Wake him up.”" "Albert helps Norbert">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>><</if>> <<else>>\ Norbert was not himself, that was certain. He seemed to be living through a horrible nightmare. One moment he cursed at his horses and swore revenge upon them. The next, he begged them not to leave him alone with all the monsters and ghouls. He paid no attention whatsoever to <<partfullname>>. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>“He must be under a spell,” realised Piecrust. “The horses seem to be affected as well. What do I do with them now? If only I had my grimoire with me – I’m sure there was a dispel incantation somewhere in there. Too bad. We’ll have to find some other way of helping him snap out of it.”<<else>><<if hasVisited("Recruit Piecrust")>>“He must be trapped in a world of illusions, like Piecrust before!” realised Rosalinda. “Daisy and Bella seem affected as well. How do I help them?”<<else>>“What happened to him?” thought Rosalinda. “I must help him snap out of it!”<</if>><</if>> <<= either("“Come back! Come back!” screamed Norbert. Tears rolled down his wrinkled face.", "“I’m lost! Where is the light?” asked Norbert.", "“Help me! They’re going to catch me!” screamed Norbert. “Take me with you!”", "Norbert cracked his whip and laughed. The horses neighed in terror and picked up speed for a brief moment, but they slowed down again – they were too tired to run fast. It wasn’t like Norbert was ever going to catch them, anyway.", "“Step back, monsters! Step back or I’ll kill you!” threatened Norbert. He then stumbled and almost fell.")>> <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Try talking to Norbert">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust shouted, trying to catch Norbert’s attention. He hoped he could convince the man all he was seeing were just illusions, but Norbert did not hear him. All Piecrust achieved was almost getting trampled.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "Try talking to Norbert">><<makepopuppass "Talking to Norbert" "norberttalkfail">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

“Really?” gasped Albert. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Really. We tricked the bandits. Their replacements were in fact Rosalinda and one of the Chosen who chased us. He’s harmless, by the way.” <<else>>\ “Yes. Osmund – he’s a Chosen novice, but can be trusted; he never wanted to harm us – well, we pretented to be the guard’s friends coming to relieve them, and they believed it.” <</if>> Albert didn’t listen any more. He violently tossed his broom to the floor. “I’m going right now. To hell with Siegfried. He’s a nasty piece of work and I don’t want to serve him. I never did. Let’s meet up where Norb is and discuss what to do next. We have to find a way of escaping this accursed forest.” He grabbed a torch off the wall and ran out in a hurry. “Hang on, brother! I’ll save you!” <<link "Continue" "Columned Hall">><</link>>

<<run $rooms["By the Standing Stones"].items.push("whip")>> “You think it’s going to work?” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “I’m sure it will. Trust me, I’m a wizard, even if I don’t look like one.” <<else>>\ “If anything can work, it’s that.” <</if>>\ Albert looked at <<partfullname>> with a furrowed brow. “All right. I’ve never done anything heroic, but it’s my brother. Hey, Norb! Stop making a fool of yourself, you hear me?” He marched straight towards Norbert and shone light on his face, all the while talking loudly. “No one’s chasing you, Norb. You can stop. What would Mom think if she saw you now? Come on. Don’t be silly. You’re scaring Daisy and Bella.” Norbert suddenly stopped. He clutched his head in confusion. “Leave me alone!” he screamed. He took a swing as if to punch Albert. Albert did not flinch. Norbert’s arm dropped. His expression changed. “What is going on?” he asked. “I could swear there were monsters chasing my coach, and the girls ran away and left me behind to–” “It was just a magic spell, Norb,” explained Albert. “Look, it’s over. You don’t have to be so embarrassed. Now…” As he was speaking, Daisy and Bella, still under the enchantment, passed them by. They were wet, foaming at the mouth. Norbert looked at them in shock, then dropped the bullwhip he was clutching and ran after them. This time, he was not shouting and threatening; he called to the horses in a calm voice. He grabbed their harness and held to it firmly when they struggled. “Now, now, girls. Easy. Sorry I gave you a scare.” He stroked their heaving sides and, miraculously, the horses stopped panicking. They looked at Norbert with recognition. Daisy pressed her nose against his face, and he hugged her giant head. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust was very much impressed. “What a neat way to dispel an illusion,” he thought. “This ought to be studied more. Of course, a counterspell would be much faster. Alas, I can’t remember any.” <<else>>\ Rosalinda smiled, watching the scene. Norbert and the horses were safe now. (“As safe as they can be in Archwood at night,” said her nervous inner voice, but she told it to be quiet.) <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Albert helps Norbert2">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if $alberttalkedto != true>> <<set $alberttalkedto to true>>\ “What are you doing here, Albert?” asked <<partfullname>>, completely surprised. Wasn’t he supposed to be a prisoner? Albert looked at <<partfullname>>. “It’s you! To be honest, I didn’t expect you to come. After that disaster – well, I don’t know how much you know, but we crashed, and then zombies and ghouls chased me, and scared me almost to death. But it later turned out those weren’t zombies and ghouls, only Master Siegfried’s spell. He ended it when we were brought here, and it turned out it was only him, and a bunch of bandits.” “Master Siegfried?” asked <<partfullname>> with suspicion. Albert looked away in shame. “Well, force of habit, I suppose. He’s an evil wizard, so I offered to be his servant, and he accepted. So, now I’m sweeping the floors instead of working at the dig site. Not a bad deal, if you ask me. I only wish Norbert was here, too. I’m worried about him. He ran away into the forest after we crashed.” <<else>>\ Albert seemed tired. He looked at <<partfullname>> questioningly, clutching his broom. <</if>>\ <<link "“How can you serve someone like Siegfried?”" "Albert Siegfried">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Running Norbert Intro") && hasVisited("Tell Norbert whereabouts") != true>>\ <<link "“I know where Norbert is!”" "Tell Norbert whereabouts">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tell Norbert whereabouts") && hasVisited("Deal with Guards")>>\ <<link "“You should go see Norbert. He needs you. We dealt with the guards outside, so you can leave safely.”" "Send Albert to Norbert">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "“What do you remember of the attack on the coach?”" "Albert Attack">><</link>> <<link "“Do you know what happened to the others?”" "Albert Others">><</link>> <<link "“What is the deal with that drawbridge?”" "Albert Drawbridge">><</link>> <<link "End conversation" "Columned Hall">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> moved towards Albert. “Is it you, skeleton lady? Are you here to rescue us?” the old man asked. <<partfullname>> could not answer, but tried to make a reassuring gesture. Albert nodded, sighed, and went back to sweeping the floor. <<link "Continue" "Columned Hall">><</link>> <</if>>\

“Well, it’s – it’s similar to the job I once had,” said Albert defensively. “I just thought, since I can’t run or fight Master Siegfried and his bandits, I could – well, maybe I could get to do something a little nicer than working down in the tunnels. When Master Siegfried removed the spell from us – we were panicking so much the bandits had a hard time herding us onto the drawbridge – I told him I used to be a necromancer’s henchman and would like to serve his glorious self now. He looked flattered and amused. He agreed, even though his hooded companion did not seem pleased – I don’t know what they have against me. And here I am, servant to an evil wizard once again.” He sighed and continued sweeping the floor. “Now that you mention it, maybe I was wrong. It’s unfair that Tekla, the loveliest person I know, is toiling down there, and I got off easily. But what could I have done to help her? And when Master Siegfried finds what he’s looking for – well, I guess he’ll either let us all go, or kill us all.” “You think he could kill the prisoners?” “I don’t know. It’s weird, I know, but when we talked, for that short moment, he didn’t seem too evil. But he still did what he did, and he knows powerful magic. The bandits work for him, but are really scared of him, too.” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>“For all I know, he’s a cruel, abusive user of magic, and what he’s looking for may be very dangerous,” said Piecrust grimly. “We must get everyone far away from him.”<<else>>“So, you think he’s not all bad?” asked Rosalinda. “I hope you’re right. Still, he is dangerous. I must find a way to free all the prisoners, and get them out of this place before something terrible happens.”<</if>> <<link "Back" "Talk to Albert">><</link>>

“We’ve been captured, me, Tekla and the Chosen Captain,” said Albert. “We stood no chance. Master Siegfried cast one spell and we all went crazy. They brought us here to work at a dig site. Master Siegfried is looking for some old treasure in these ruins. They took Tekla down, and locked up the Captain somewhere because she struggled so much. Even under the spell, she attacked and hurt some of the bandits. Funny thing, this place,” he added, looking around the hall in wonder. “Never thought there were old ruins in the middle of the forest.” He was silent for a moment. <<if hasVisited("Tell Norbert whereabouts")>>\ “And, thanks to you, I know where Norbert is. Poor Norbert. I wish I could help him somehow.” <<else>>\ “I wish I knew when Norbert was. Him and the horses. They all bolted and ran into the woods, so fast the bandits couldn’t catch them.” <</if>> <<link "Back" "Talk to Albert">><</link>>

“You found him?” exclaimed Albert. Then, he covered his mouth and looked around nervously, but no one was coming. “Is he all right?” he asked in a low voice. “He’s under the effect of Siegfried’s spell,” replied <<partfullname>>.<<if $activepart == "piecrust">> “Unfortunately, I don’t remember the incantation which could dispel it. However, I think seeing and hearing someone familiar might make him snap out of the illusion. That’s how Rosalinda helped me, at least. Right now, he’s chasing his horses like a madman around a bunch of standing stones.<<else>> “I think maybe you’d have a chance to break it. You’re his brother, after all. He’ll recognise your voice.”<</if>> Albert looked torn. He dropped his broom and was almost ready to run outside, but then he hesitated. “The guards will catch me,” he said. “This is horrible. Now I’ll worry even more about Norb, crazy and alone in the woods.” “Why would you worry about the guards?” asked <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust<<else>>Rosalinda<</if>>. “They were sent down below by Siegfried.” “Not them, the new guards. The ones who came to relieve them.” <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards")>>\ <<link "“There aren’t any new guards. You can leave safely.”" "Send Albert to Norbert">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "Back" "Talk to Albert">><</link>>

The drawbridge could not have been as old as the stone hall. Someone must have constructed it recently. <<if $drawbridgelowered>>The drawbridge was lowered, allowing passage to the other side of the chasm and an earthen tunnel.<<else>>The drawbridge was up.<</if>> <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Someone is smart about making this place as defensible as possible,” thought Piecrust. <<else>>\ “Why this and not a simple footbridge?” wondered Rosalinda. “Are the bandits expecting a siege?” <</if>>\ <<link "Operate the drawbridge mechanism">><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was too small to operate such a mechanism.">><<elseif $activepart == "skull">><<makepopuptext "" "The skull could not operate the lever.">><<elseif $drawbridgelowered>><<makepopuptext "" "The drawbridge was lowered, and Rosalinda saw no reason to raise it for now.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> could not reach the lever on the other side of the chasm.">><</if>><</link>>

“Well, from what I’ve figured out, Master Siegfried told the bandits to put it here, to stop the workers in the tunnel from escaping. Maybe to defend against any attackers, too. They only lower the bridge if Master Siegfried or one of the bandits has to cross from the other side. I hoped Master Siegfried will entrust me, his servant, with operating the drawbridge, but he did not.” <<link "Back" "Talk to Albert">><</link>>

“Not much. I remember a flash of light, the horses panicking, the coach crashing… And then there were these monsters all around me. I froze in fear and closed my eyes. Later, I learned it was all an illusion. Blasted magic. If not for that trick, Tekla would have beaten all those bandits, I’m sure of it. Oh, sorry. I guess I shouldn’t be speaking ill of Master Siegfried’s magic now that he’s my master.” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Quit this nonsense, Albert,” said Piecrust. “That man is not your master. He’s a dangerous criminal and we’re going to stop him.” <<else>>\ “You don’t have to serve him,” said Rosalinda. “I understand why you did what you did, but now it’s time to escape.” <</if>>\ “You’re probably right,” agreed Albert. “Eh… Mom always told me I had the nose for finding the worst jobs.” “Do you remember anything else of the attack? Maybe something about Siegfried and the bandits that could give us an upper hand?” Albert scratched his chin. “Not about the attack, but some time after they brought us here, two more people appeared. They seem to be allies of Siegfried.” <<link "Back" "Talk to Albert">><</link>>

The carriage was new, big and shiny. There were no horses anywhere in sight. The vehicle looked very much out of place in the ruined courtyard. <<if hasVisited("Aurelia and Figg")>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Looks like something Philemon Figg would be driven around in,” thought Piecrust. “He’s a villain with a lack of good taste.” <<else>>\ “This must be councilman Figg’s carriage,” thought Rosalinda. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust have seen the richest nobility driven around Greywall in similar carriages. <<else>>\ “Who could have come here in such an extravagant carriage?” wondered Rosalinda. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Look inside the carriage" "Inside Carriage">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>\

Piecrust followed the old mouse tunnel north, into a room turned into a study. Aurelia was there, with two other people. Piecrust recognised one of them– Councilman Philemon Figg, who was pacing in circles in the middle of the room. A very tall, broad-shouldered woman was standing close by. She was armed and alert. She was wearing a hooded cloak, similar to Aurelia’s. Another cloak was slung across a chair nearby. “So, Figg is in cahoots with Aurelia,” thought Piecrust. “What does he hope to achieve? He can’t be interested in ancient magic.” “You shouldn’t have come here,” said Aurelia, glancing at Figg. “You’re adding even more risk to an already risky venture.” “Oh, but I couldn’t stop myself,” replied the councilman, smiling slyly. “I want to be here for the grand opening of the treasure room. I must watch over my investments, you know.” “You’re lucky you didn’t meet Lydia on your way.” “I had no idea she and her knights went after their prisoners into Archwood, of all places! In any case, I would have convinced her to let me go. She respects me, you know. The conscionable Councilman who deeply cares about his city and reports all the strange happenings straight to them!” “It seems you haven’t been reporting enough, since she came here herself.” Figg frowned. “Do you think the Chosen know I was lying? Oh, that’s making me nervous.” Figg’s face turned pale. He started searching through his pockets. His bodyguard moved towards him, but he stopped her with a gesture. Aurelia watched it all with raised eyebrows. “Unlikely,” she said. “Lydia was chasing the ogre and her companions. In the end, it was all quite lucky. The giantess is doing the work of ten people excavating the tunnel. And Lydia, well – she could be a huge problem, but she’s locked up, and later she may become useful to us. I just hope her knights won’t appear here, looking for her, before I’m ready.” “Oh, that’s good, that’s good. I was getting unwell and I can’t find my medicine. Without it, my stomach would be upset for hours. Tell me again, Aurelia, how much treasure are we talking about here?” “Heaps of gold. Enough to buy Greywall and have some left.” “And how much we’ll have to pay to the bandits and that actor?” The mage smiled. “I don’t think we’re going to pay them after all.” The councilman returned the smile. “I feel better already,” he said. <<link "Continue" "Aurelia’s Study">><</link>>

The long lever was connected to a mechanism with gears and ropes, used to raise and lower the drawbridge. <<link "Operate the lever">><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was too small to operate such a mechanism.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "There was no easy way to reach the lever from the other side of the chasm.">><</if>><</link>>

<<set $drawbridgelowered to true>>\ Rosalinda aimed and swung the whip. She felt a weird sensation in her left arm as it was sent hurtling through the air with a distinct “swoosh”. She missed the lever again, but her arm reached out and grasped it with bony fingers. “Great!” cheered Rosalinda. She pulled on the whip. The lever slowly moved, activating the mechanism. With whirring and creaking, the cogs started turning and the wooden drawbridge lowered, allowing passage to the other side of the chasm. The arm let go of the lever and Rosalinda pulled back the whip. <<link "Continue" "Columned Hall">><</link>>

<<set $drawbridgelowered to true>>\ Rosalinda aimed and swung the whip. She felt a weird sensation in her right arm as it was sent hurtling through the air with a distinct “swoosh”. She missed the lever again, but her arm reached out and grasped it with bony fingers. “Great!” cheered Rosalinda. She pulled on the whip. The lever slowly moved, activating the mechanism. With whirring and creaking, the cogs started turning and the wooden drawbridge lowered, allowing passage to the other side of the chasm. The arm let go of the lever and Rosalinda pulled back the whip. <<link "Continue" "Columned Hall">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Dig Site Intro") != true>><<goto "Dig Site Intro">><</if>> <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a cavernous hall. Only the lower part of the hall was lit with torches and lamps. Many passages were leading out of the hall, but most of them were completely blocked with dirt and rubble. To the west, a half-open door led to a small room. To the north, there was <<object "another door">>. In the south-east part of the room there was <<if $trapdooropen>>a deep <<object "shaft">> in the floor<<else>>a rusty <<object "trapdoor">><</if>>. <<if hasVisited("Tekla Opens Passage")>>\ In the eastern part of the room, Aurelia was watching over the captives excavating the tunnel. Figg and his bodyguard were also nearby. <<partfullname>> could see Tekla was doing her best to pretend she was working, without actually opening the passage. Approaching Aurelia would be too risky. The only way into the lower ruins was now through the secret passage inside the old willow. <<else>>\ <<if hasVisited("Siegfried guards")>>To the east, the floor slabs had been removed, creating a pit in which several <<object "captives0">> were toiling, <<object "Tekla4">> among them.<<else>>To the east, the floor slabs had been removed, creating a pit in which several <<object "captives">> were toiling, <<object "Tekla3">> among them. They were being watched by two <<object "alert bandits">>.<</if>> The captives were removing dirt from the mouth of a most curious, <<object "glowing tunnel">>. <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust <<link "could sense a faint magical energy">><<makepopuppass "faint magical energy" "faintenergydesc">><</link>> flowing through the air. <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go south [->Descending Tunnel]">><<moveto "Descending Tunnel">><</link>> <<link "Go west [->Side room]">><<moveto "Side Room">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

“He’s gone completely crazy,” said Albert, watching his brother with a puzzled expression. “If I don’t do something, he’s going to run until he collapses and dies.” <<if $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "“You should go and talk to him. Wake him up.”" "Albert helps Norbert">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>><</if>>

The horses were tired, but they ran on, stumbling, with ears laid low and eyes wide open in fear. <<link "Try to stop the horses">><<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda tried to grab the horses’ harness, which they dragged behind them, but the panicked animals reacted with rearing up and kicking when she approached. She quickly backed away. “It’s no use!” she thought. “I’m sure Norbert could calm them down if he wasn’t affected himself. As is, he’s only scaring them even more.”">><<elseif $activepart == "body">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda would not be able to grab the horses’ harness with no arms.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Approaching the panicked horses seemed too dangerous for <<partfullname>>, who would risk getting trampled.">><</if>><</link>>

<<print either("Albert and Norbert were sitting on logs by the extinguished campfire, having a conversation. “Okay, but why do you call him ‘Beast’?” asked Norbert. “It’s ridiculous!” “No, it isn’t!” protested Albert. “It’s better than his real name. Remember, I was a necromancer’s assistant. I had to call him something appropriate.” “Huh? What’s wrong with ‘Dogbert’ all of a sudden?” Albert shook his head. “You never served an evil wizard. You won’t understand.”", "“Uh, hello there,” said Albert. “How is the whole thing going? Do you think we’ll get home before dawn? Mom is going to be worried about Norb and I, you see.”", "Albert was sitting on a log by the extinguished campfire, absent-mindedly turning the pages of his little book, even though it was too dark to read.")>>

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “I hope you know some spells to get us out if this pickle,” said Norbert. “I mean, I don’t blame you. It’s all because of those damned bandits, and the stubborn Chosen.<<if hasVisited("The team captures bandits")>> Oh – sorry, kid. I guess you’re not bad. I almost started to like you when we were fighting those smelly bandits together.” Osmund smiled.<<else>>\ Osmund shifted uneasily, but didn’t say anything. <</if>>\ “But we wouldn’t have landed in hot water if it wasn’t for you, and my brother’s ogre friend. So, do something to free the ogress, because Albert won’t go anywhere without her.” <<else>>\ “You’re quite resourceful, skeleton,” said Norbert. “I hope it’s enough to get us out of this pickle. Damned bandits, and damned stubborn Chosen.<<if hasVisited("The team captures bandits")>> Oh – sorry, kid. I guess you’re not bad. I almost started to like you when we were fighting those smelly bandits together.” Osmund smiled.<<else>>” Osmund shifted uneasily, but didn’t say anything. <</if>>\ “I don’t know anything about warlocks or spells, so I won’t be of much use, unless it comes to running away. I’ll look after Daisy and Bella, and once you’ve freed the ogress – Albert won’t leave without her – we can hop into that ridiculous carriage over there and leave this accursed place.” <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Stables") && $activepart == "piecrust" || hasVisited("Stables") && $activepart == "skull" || hasVisited("Stables") && $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "Tell Norbert about the horses in the stables">><<makepopuptext "" "“Oh, those two?” Norbert nodded. “I saw them. They look like moody beasts, but I think I could get through to them. Maybe I should try that later? They’re nowhere near as good as my girls, of course, but having more horses wouldn’t hurt.”">><</link>> <</if>>

Osmund was <<if hasVisited("Osmund returns sword") != true>>clutching the sword and <</if>>looking around nervously, although it was hard to tell if he was more worried about bandits, or about Albert and Norbert. “I hope you’ll find the others soon, and we can all go home,” he said. <<if hasVisited("CaptainLydia0WaterJet") && hasVisited("Osmund returns sword") != true>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Ask Osmund for the sword">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust decided to ask Osmund for the sword – it didn’t seem like the novice really needed it, and Lydia could for sure make a good use of it. Then he realised he wouldn’t be able to carry the sword anyway. “Rosalinda should do it,” he decided.">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Ask Osmund for the sword">><<makepopuptext "" "“We found Captain Lydia,” said the skull. “She’s helping us now, and she could use a weapon”. “Oh! I see. I can give you the sword – but how will you carry it to Captain?” “That would be problematic,” the skull agreed. “I’ll come back with my arms and body.”">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Ask Osmund for the sword" "Osmund returns sword">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "Ask Osmund for the sword">><<makepopuptext "" "“We found Captain Lydia,” said Rosalinda. “She’s helping us now, and she could use a weapon”. “Oh! I see. I can give you the sword – but how will you carry it to Captain?” “That would be problematic,” Rosalinda agreed. “I’ll come back with my arms.”">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

Like Norbert’s coach, the carriage had side doors, a roof hatch and a rear window, but other than that, the two couldn’t be more different. The inside of this carriage was even more luxurious than the outside, with soft seats and velvet curtains. Everything was red or golden. <<if hasVisited("Get Tincture") != true>>\ There was a small, corked vial lying on one of the seats. <<if $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Take the vial" "Get Tincture">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Take the vial">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was too small to pick up the vial, and even if he could, he wasn’t sure he would. The label on the vial read “Dr. Cornelius’ Extra Bitter Digestive Tincture” and, even through the cork, the mouse could sense a repulsive smell which made his stomach cramp.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Take the vial">><<makepopuptext "" "The skull couldn’t get inside the carriage or pick up the vial.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Take the vial">><<makepopuptext "" "With no arms, Rosalinda could not pick up the vial.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Back" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

<<getitemfromdescription "bittertincture" "bitter tincture">>\ <<partfullname>> grabbed the vial. The label read, in fancy lettering: “Dr. Cornelius’ Extra Bitter Digestive Tincture”. <<partfullname>> _desc <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Dig Site")>><<set _movedig to "Go north [->Dig Site]">><<else>><<set _movedig to "Go north">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a tunnel descending towards the north. The tunnel passed through partially cleared stone rooms and corridors. At other places, it was little more than a narrow passage dug through compacted dirt. The tunnel ended in a small, but tall room, after breaking through packed dirt and dead roots. In the room, there was <<if hasVisited("stonedoorpentagonalgem")>>an open<<else>>a<</if>> <<object "stone door">> to the north, and a <<object "ledge">> high above it.<<if hasVisited("magiceye1emptymug") != true>> On the ledge, there was a <<object "magic eye">>, which emitted pale light as it constantly turned, looking around the room.<<if $rooms["On the Ledge"].items.includes("emptymug")>> A tin mug was lying close to the eye.<</if>><<else>> On the ledge, there was a bent tin mug. It covered a magic eye.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go south [->Columned Hall]">><<moveto "Columned Hall">><</link>> <<link _movedig>><<if hasVisited("stonedoorpentagonalgem")>><<moveto "Dig Site">><<elseif $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("magiceye1emptymug") != true>><<if $piecrusteye>><<makepopuptext "" "If I approach the door, the eye will spot me,” thought Piecrust. “Better not do that. Siegfried may turn suspicious if there are too many ‘false’ alarms.”">><<else>><<set $piecrusteye to true>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust looked at the gap underneath the door and decided he could squeeze through. However, as soon as he stepped beyond an invisible line near the middle of the room, the eye on the ledge turned and looked straight at him. A loud wail split the air. Piecrust ran back into the tunnel and hid in the shadows, trembling. A moment later, the stone door was unlocked from the other side. Siegfried the warlock and one of the bandit guards appeared, looking around the room. “There’s no one here, master,” said the bandit, relieved. “Damned alarm,” muttered Siegfried. “What was it this time? Another bat?” They went back, locking the door behind them. “The warlock seems a little paranoid,” thought Piecrust. It felt strangely satisfying, scaring them a little. But it did not help solve the problem: Piecrust could not cross the room. He was afraid next time Siegfried would be more thorough in searching the room, and who knew what would happen if he found the intruder?">><</if>><<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust squeezed through the gap to the room beyond the door.">><<moveto "Dig Site">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "The stone door blocked the way to the north. Only a mouse could squeeze underneath.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

A heavy, carved stone door. There was a bit of a gap underneath, where several floor slabs had subsided. <<if hasVisited("stonedoorpentagonalgem")>>The door was wide open.<<else>> Instead of a keyhole, there was a small pentagonal recess on the door, but no door handle. The door was closed. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Obviously, this door was created by the wizards of Archwall. It’s quite beautiful,” thought Piecrust. <<else>>\ “How do you open a door with no keyhole and no door handle?” wondered Rosalinda. <</if>>\ <</if>> <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("stonedoorpentagonalgem") != true>>\ <<link "Squeeze under the door">><<if hasVisited("magiceye1emptymug") != true>><<if $piecrusteye>><<makepopuptext "" "If I approach the door, the eye will spot me,” thought Piecrust. “Better not do that. Siegfried may turn suspicious if there are too many ‘false’ alarms.”">><<else>><<set $piecrusteye to true>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust looked at the gap underneath the door and decided he could squeeze through. However, as soon as he stepped beyond an invisible line near the middle of the room, the eye on the ledge turned and looked straight at him. A loud wail split the air. Piecrust ran back into the tunnel and hid in the shadows, trembling. A moment later, the stone door was unlocked from the other side. Siegfried the warlock and one of the bandit guards appeared, looking around the room. “There’s no one here, master,” said the bandit, relieved. “Damned alarm,” muttered Siegfried. “What was it this time? Another bat?” They went back, locking the door behind them. “The warlock seems a little paranoid,” thought Piecrust. It felt strangely satisfying, scaring them a little. But it did not help solve the problem: Piecrust could not cross the room. He was afraid next time Siegfried would be more thorough in searching the room, and who knew what would happen if he found the intruder?">><</if>><<else>><<moveto "Dig Site">><<run Dialog.close()>><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\

The artificial eyeball rested on a narrow ledge high above the door. It was quite lifelike, made of white crystal with a black pupil. As it turned, looking around, it gave a rather unsettling impression. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “An advanced magical alarm,” thought Piecrust. <<if $piecrusteye>>“We should blind it somehow.”<<else>>He felt the eye was going to cause him problems.<</if>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Climb up the ledge and check the magic eye up close">><<if $piecrusteye>><<makepopuptext "" "If I approach, the eye will spot me,” thought Piecrust. “Better not do that. Siegfried may turn suspicious if there are too many ‘false’ alarms.”">><<else>><<set $piecrusteye to true>><<makepopuptext "" "The stone wall by the door looked rough enough for Piecrust to climb. However, as soon as he stepped beyond an invisible line near the middle of the room, the eye turned and looked straight at him. A loud wail split the air. Piecrust ran back into the tunnel and hid in the shadows, trembling. A moment later, the stone door was unlocked from the other side. Siegfried the warlock and one of the bandit guards appeared, looking around the room. “There’s no one here, master,” said the bandit, relieved. “Damned alarm,” muttered Siegfried. “What was it this time? Another bat?” They went back, locking the door behind them. “The warlock seems a little paranoid,” thought Piecrust. It felt strangely satisfying, scaring them a little. But it did not help solve the problem: Piecrust could not cross the room. He was afraid next time Siegfried would be more thorough in searching the room, and who knew what would happen if he found the intruder?">><</if>><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Climb up the ledge and check the magic eye up close">><<set $rosalindaeye to true>><<if $piecrusteye && $piecrustloc == "Descending Tunnel">><<makepopuptext "" "The arm tried to climb up the wall, but ended up sliding all the way back down each time. Piecrust observed its futile efforts. “Strange,” he said. “The eye does not react to the arm approaching. Could it be that it only detects life?”">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "The arm tried to climb up the wall, but ended up sliding all the way back down each time.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was on a ledge above the stone door. <<if hasVisited("magiceye1emptymug")>>The magic alarm eye on the ledge was covered with a tin mug and could not see <<partfullname>>, or anything at all.<<else>>The <<object "magic eye1">> was right next to it, but did not react to the arm’s presence.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Climb down from the ledge [->Descending Tunnel]">><<moveto "Descending Tunnel">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Drop down from the ledge [->Descending Tunnel]">><<moveto "Descending Tunnel">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("emptymug")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <</if>>\ <<run $rooms["On the Ledge"].items.push("emptymug")>>\ Covering the eye with the mug could blind it, but <<partfullname>> couldn’t reach the high ledge on which it was placed. “Maybe if I throw it…” <<partfullname>> aimed and tossed the mug. It reached the ledge. With a loud clang, it landed on the stone right next to the magic eye, but did not cover it. “Oh, bothers,” thought Rosalinda. <<link "Continue" "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>

Seen from up close, the eye was even more unsettling. There were small, silvery veins running inside the white crystal, which slowly pulsated. The eye kept turning around mindlessly, not reacting to <<partfullname>>. <<link "Touch the eye">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> touched the eye and was zapped by a blue magical lightning, which pushed it back. “Looks like the magical security system has its own magical security system,” thought Rosalinda.">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("emptymug")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <</if>>\ <<run $rooms["On the Ledge"].items.push("emptymug")>>\ Rosalinda figured out she could blind the eye by covering it with the tin mug. But the eye was on the ledge, too high to reach. “Maybe if I throw it…” <<partfullname>> aimed and tossed the mug. It reached the ledge. With a loud clang, it landed on the stone right next to the magic eye, but did not cover it. <<if $larmloc == "On the Ledge" || $rarmloc == "On the Ledge">>\ “Now my arm can pick it up!” thought Rosalinda. <<else>>\ “Oh, bothers,” thought Rosalinda. <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>

<<run $inventory.delete("leftarm")>><<set $larmav to true>><<set $larmloc to "On the Ledge">>\ Rosalinda aimed and tossed her left arm at the magic eye. She missed by a wide mark, but the arm managed to grab the edge of the stone ledge and climb up onto it. <<if $rosalindaeye != true>>\ <<set $rosalindaeye to true>>\ The magic eye glanced past the arm, but did not react to it in any way. <<if $piecrusteye && $piecrustloc == "Descending Tunnel">> “Strange,” said Piecrust. Could it be that it only detects life?” <</if>>\ <</if>> <<link "Continue" "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>

<<run $inventory.delete("rightarm")>><<set $rarmav to true>><<set $rarmloc to "On the Ledge">>\ Rosalinda aimed and tossed her right arm at the magic eye. She missed by a wide mark, but the arm managed to grab the edge of the stone ledge and climb up onto it. <<if $rosalindaeye != true>>\ <<set $rosalindaeye to true>>\ The magic eye glanced past the arm, but did not react to it in any way. <<if $piecrusteye && $piecrustloc == "Descending Tunnel">> “Strange,” said Piecrust. Could it be that it only detects life?” <</if>>\ <</if>> <<link "Continue" "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>

<<run $inventory.delete("leftarm")>><<set $larmav to true>><<set $larmloc to "On the Ledge">>\ The ledge was too high for the arm to climb, so Rosalinda grabbed it with her other arm, aimed and tossed it up. The left arm flew towards the ledge, grabbed it with its fingers and pulled itself up. <<if $rosalindaeye != true>>\ <<set $rosalindaeye to true>>\ The magic eye glanced past the arm, but did not react to it in any way. <<if $piecrusteye && $piecrustloc == "Descending Tunnel">> “Strange,” said Piecrust. Could it be that it only detects life?” <</if>>\ <</if>> <<link "Continue" "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>

<<run $inventory.delete("rightarm")>><<set $rarmav to true>><<set $rarmloc to "On the Ledge">>\ The ledge was too high for the arm to climb, so Rosalinda grabbed it with her other arm, aimed and tossed it up. The right arm flew towards the ledge, grabbed it with its fingers and pulled itself up. <<if $rosalindaeye != true>>\ <<set $rosalindaeye to true>>\ The magic eye glanced past the arm, but did not react to it in any way. <<if $piecrusteye && $piecrustloc == "Descending Tunnel">> “Strange,” said Piecrust. Could it be that it only detects life?” <</if>>\ <</if>> <<link "Continue" "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>

The stone ledge above the door was a good twelve feet from the ground. <<if hasVisited("magiceye1emptymug")>>There was a magic alarm eye on the ledge, but it had been covered with a tin mug and blinded, so that it could no longer detect anyone or anything.<<else>>There was a magic eye on the ledge, constantly looking around the room.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("magiceye1emptymug") != true>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Climb up the ledge and check the magic eye up close">><<if $piecrusteye>><<makepopuptext "" "If I approach, the eye will spot me,” thought Piecrust. “Better not do that. Siegfried may turn suspicious if there are too many ‘false’ alarms.”">><<else>><<set $piecrusteye to true>><<makepopuptext "" "The stone wall by the door looked rough enough for Piecrust to climb. However, as soon as he stepped beyond an invisible line near the middle of the room, the eye turned and looked straight at him. A loud wail split the air. Piecrust ran back into the tunnel and hid in the shadows, trembling. A moment later, the stone door was unlocked from the other side. Siegfried the warlock and one of the bandit guards appeared, looking around the room. “There’s no one here, master,” said the bandit, relieved. “Damned alarm,” muttered Siegfried. “What was it this time? Another bat?” They went back, locking the door behind them. “The warlock seems a little paranoid,” thought Piecrust. It felt strangely satisfying, scaring them a little. But it did not help solve the problem: Piecrust could not cross the room. He was afraid next time Siegfried would be more thorough in searching the room, and who knew what would happen if he found the intruder?">><</if>><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Climb up the ledge and check the magic eye up close">><<set $rosalindaeye to true>><<if $piecrusteye && $piecrustloc == "Descending Tunnel">><<makepopuptext "" "The arm tried to climb up the wall, but ended up sliding all the way back down each time. “Maybe I could throw it?” wondered Rosalinda. Piecrust observed the arm’s futile efforts. “Strange,” he said. “The eye does not react to the arm approaching. Could it be that it only detects life?”">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "The arm tried to climb up the wall, but ended up sliding all the way back down each time. “Maybe I could throw it?” wondered Rosalinda.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Climb up the ledge">><<run Dialog.close()>><<moveto "On the Ledge">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Climb up the ledge">><<makepopuptext "" "The arm tried to climb up the wall, but ended up sliding all the way back down each time.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

“Please, don’t – I just – I don’t want anything to do with that,” begged Siegfried. “Just let me go. You don’t even have to pay me. I won’t tell anyone.” “It’s too late to resign,” said the other person, a red-haired woman, more striking than beautiful with her aquiline nose and sharp features. “Aurelia!” Piecrust was terrified, and yet he couldn’t shake the feeling he should have known. The mysterious figure always accompanying Siegfried. The incredibly strong illusion spells – a trademark of his colleague. But part of him still didn’t want to believe someone he knew, and worked with, would stoop so low. Aurelia made a gesture and the warlock – fake warlock – shrunk back against a wall. “Please, I just – I don’t want to fight you. But this is going too far.” Aurelia didn’t approach Siegfried, only pouted her lips, looking at him with utmost contempt. “You should have stuck to doing what you were told. I’m not happy about this, but I must teach you a lesson. You went too far with your acting. To think you could argue with me!” “B-but that old man was harmless! I just felt sorry for him. And having an assistant could really help my image. Please, Aurelia. It was all to maintain the illusion –” “About that.” The sorceress smiled cruelly and made a quick gesture. Siegfried dropped to his knees. His eyes were open wide in terror, and he was mouthing something without making a sound. “So nice of you to be quiet,” said Aurelia. She brushed back a lock of hair and pulled down the hood of her robe. “Now, to keep the fat pig from squealing.” She left the room, passing by Piecrust, who was hiding behind the doorway. His heart was racing. On the surface, the situation has not changed by much. He was facing the same magic-wielding opponent as earlier. But knowing it was someone he knew – used to trust, even – made everything much worse. He was sure Aurelia was after the ancient magic of Archwall, and even more sure she had to be stopped. <<link "Continue" "Dig Site">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <</if>>\ <<partfullname>> crawled up to the magic eye and, in one quick move, covered it with the mug. Nothing happened. There was no alarm, the mug didn’t explode, and the warlock didn’t come running through the door. “Guess that’s it for their security system,” thought Rosalinda. “I’m sure the prisoners are somewhere close. Now, how to get through that door?” <<link "Continue" "On the Ledge">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "body">><<run $inventory.delete("pentagonalgem")>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<set $itemlarm to "none">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">><<set $itemrarm to "none">>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">><<set $itempiecrust to "none">>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “It seems obvious from its shape that the gem goes into the recess in the door,” thought Piecrust. “What an elegant key!” Climbing up the door while holding the gem in his mouth wasn’t easy, but Piecrust managed to get to the recess and insert the pentagonal stone, pushing with his nose. <<else>>\ The gemstone looked like it would nicely fit into the recess on the door. “It must be an ancient key,” thought Rosalinda. <<partfullname>> inserted the stone into the recess. <</if>>\ The stone lit up for a brief moment, and the door swung open noiselessly. <<link "Continue" "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>\

Piecrust found himself in a cavernous hall. Only the lower part of the hall was lit with torches and lamps. Looking around, the mouse realised the hall used to be even bigger – parts of it were buried underneath dirt and rubble. To the east, the floor slabs had been removed, creating a dirt pit in which a group of shadowy silhouettes were toiling, removing dirt. They were being watched by two bandits armed with clubs. Among the workers, Piecrust recognised Tekla. The ogress was removing large stones from the pit with her bare hands. “I must free her!” thought Piecrust, thoughts racing through his mind. He believed Tekla could take care of the guards with ease, but for some reason she was meekly following their orders, not responding when they laughed at her and called her names. Piecrust knew the ogress didn’t like fighting or hurting anyone, but shouldn’t she be standing up for herself – and the other prisoners? Suddenly, he heard muffled voices coming from the west. One of them was Siegfried. The other… It sounded familiar. He ran towards the voices and found himself in an open doorway, leading to a small room. To his surprise, he saw Siegfried, the terrifying warlock, backing away from his accomplice. The surprise turned into shock and disbelief when the mouse realised he knew the person staring Siegfried down, who was no longer wearing a hood. He was not wrong about that voice. <<link "Continue" "Aurelia casts spell on Siegfried">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a small stone chamber. There was a makeshift bed here, and an open <<object "chest">> against the wall. <<if hasVisited("Wake Siegfried up")>><<if $casting || $using || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") != true || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">><<object "Siegfried1">><<else>><<link "Siegfried" "Talk to Siegfried">><</link>><</if>> was in the room, pacing back and forth.<<else>>In a corner, <<object "Siegfried">> was sitting, staring into the distance with unseeing eyes.<</if>>\ There was a tiny <<object "mouse hole">> in the northern wall, just above the ground. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go east [->Dig Site]">><<moveto "Dig Site">><</link>> <<if $holeused && $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Go through the mouse hole to [-> Aurelia’s Study]">><<moveto "Aurelia’s Study">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

The false warlock was a pitiful sight to behold. He was in an almost catatonic state, oblivious to his surroundings. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust knew for certain Aurelia’s spell turned the victims’ minds against them, showing their worst nightmares with lifelike fidelity. Whatever Siegfried was seeing, it made him unable to flee or cry for help. Occasionally, he would mutter some words, barely making a sound. Even though Siegfried worked for Aurelia and apparently was fine with her using the same magic on innocent people, the mouse could not help but feel a little sorry for the man. “He probably knows a thing or two about the whole business going on down here,” he thought. “If we could help him snap out of this, maybe he would tell us? I doubt he’ll want to work for Aurelia anymore, unless he’s too intimidated by her.” <<else>> “Poor man,” thought Rosalinda. “Who would have thought he’d fall victim to the same spell he pretended to wield. If we could help him regain his senses, maybe he would help us, now that he knows what sort of person that Aurelia really is?” <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Get Pentagonal Gem") != true>>\ <<partfullname>> noticed Siegfried was clutching something in his hand – a really small, red, pentagonal gem. <<link "Get the gem" "Get Pentagonal Gem">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Talk to Siegfried" "Siegfried doesn’t respond">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Talk to Siegfried">><<makepopuptext "" "Without her skull, Rosalinda could not talk.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "Listen closely to what Siegfried is saying" "Siegfried muttering">><<set $siegfriedclue1 to true>><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<if $siegfriedclue1 && $siegfriedclue2 && $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") || $siegfriedclue1 && $siegfriedclue2 && $activepart == "larm" && $rarmloc == $larmloc || $siegfriedclue1 && $siegfriedclue2 && $activepart == "rarm" && $rarmloc == $larmloc>>\ <<link "Clap your hands" "Wake Siegfried up">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>\ <</if>>\

<<getitemfromdescription "pentagonalgem" "pentagonal gem">>\ “This might be helpful,” though <<partfullname>>, running along Siegfried’s arm. The man let go of the gem when Piecrust pushed it with his nose. <<partfullname>> _desc “All right,” thought Piecrust. “This is infused with ancient magic, and looks like the key. Good thing Aurelia didn’t take it from Siegfried. Oh – right. I should run and tell Rosalinda I found Tekla. And mention Aurelia, too. What a giant mess this situation is turning into!” <<link "Continue">><<if $bodyparts.includes("skull")>><<moveto $bodyloc>><<else>><<moveto $skullloc>><</if>><<goto "Piecrust tells about Aurelia">><</link>>

<<if $location == "At the Bottom of the Lake">><<set $airbubble to true>>\ Piecrust was surprised to find Rosalinda at the bottom of the lake, but there was no time to waste. He cast his air bubble spell and dove straight in. <<else>>\ Piecrust had to talk to Rosalinda. He ran as fast as his legs could carry him, until he found her. <</if>>\ “I’ve seen Tekla,” he said. “There are more prisoners, too. They are digging in the lower levels of Archwall. There’s guards. And I’ve seen Siegfried – but he’s not a warlock. I don’t even know if his name is Siegfried.” “Wait – slow down, Piecrust. Siegfried is not a warlock? It’s good news, isn’t it? But… didn’t we see him cast spells?” “Well, that is the problem I had to tell you about,” said the mouse and explained. Rosalinda listened carefully. Her expression didn’t change – it couldn’t – but when she spoke, she sounded worried. “So, that Aurelia is very strong?” “Yes. One of the best wizards I’ve ever known. And she’s always been ambitious. But I’ve never, ever thought she would do something like that. She… I…” He searched for words. “How could I have been so wrong again? First Gustav, now this. Why am I so blind? I couldn’t even add two and two together when I saw how powerful our enemy’s illusions were. Illusions – Aurelia’s speciality!” “Don’t be too hard on yourself, Piecrust. You weren’t around when she turned bad, and besides, Siegfried, Aurelia, or someone else? We’re still fighting against a powerful wizard. And, may I remind you, we’ve been in this situation before.” Piecrust sighed. “You’re… you’re right. Okay. Let’s focus on the task at hand.” <<link "Continue" "Piecrust tells about Aurelia2">><</link>>

There definitely was magic in the air, which made Piecrust’s whiskers tingle. It appeared it was stronger near the pit where the captives worked. “There must be some sort of magic amplifier hidden deeper in the ruins,” thought the mouse. He felt a surge of energy and realised his magic power was somewhat stronger in this place. “Could this be what Aurelia is after?” His brief excitement turned into worry when he remembered the sorceress’s magic would also be more amplified.

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("Convince Tekla")>>\ Tekla stopped her work when she noticed Piecrust, and glanced at the guards, who weren’t looking their way. “Have you figured out how to make them leave, Master Piecrust?” she whispered. “I just wish they left on their own!” Piecrust nodded. “If I could just tell them to leave, I would. But they won’t listen to me, and attacking them will surely attract Aurelia’s attention.” <<else>>\ The ogress was working diligently at the end of the pit, removing massive stones clogging the entrance to the tunnel with glowing walls. <<link "Talk to Tekla" "Convince Tekla">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> saw Tekla, but could not approach her because of the bandit guards who were watching the captives. <</if>>\

The two bandits who had been in the courtyard earlier now watched over the prisoners digging below. They weren’t too happy about that. “They don’t even let us rest,” one said to the other in a low voice. “I swear, I’m ready to quit. I don’t even care about the money anymore.” “Me too. I get the feeling this will end in trouble. But Master Siegfried is not going to let us leave like this, is he?” “If we run and leave the prisoners alone, he’ll find out, and curse us. Damn it, I’m so sleepy. And hungry. I don’t even know what’s worse. I wish I haven’t hidden the herrings so far away.” “Well, it was the only way to stop Pest from helping himself to them all the time.” <<if $activepart != "piecrust">>\ “They are very afraid of Siegfried,” thought Rosalinda. “They won’t abandon the post unless we trick them somehow.” She realised she could not approach the dig with the guards present. Despite being tired, they weren’t taking their eyes from the prisoners even for a moment. Even a single bony arm would not slip past them. “A mouse, maybe,” she thought. <</if>>

<<if hasVisited("Wake Siegfried up")>>\ The chect contained a selection of plain, simple clothing mixed with Siegfried’s over-the-top stage costumes. A loosely bound script for a play had been thrown on top of the pile of clothing. <<else>>\ The chest contained some items of clothing – plain and simple shirts and trousers mixed with ornate robes<<if $activepart != "piecrust">> which, however, were made of cheap materials. “Those look like stage costumes,” thought Rosalinda. <<else>>.<</if>> Next to the clothes, there were some loosely bound papers. <<partfullname>> took a look and discovered they were a script of a play, with parts underlined and plentiful margin notes. <<if $siegfriedclue2 != true>><<set $siegfriedclue2 to true>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “I bet this is Siegfried’s,” thought Piecrust. “So, he was a stage actor before he got hired by Aurelia? Come to think of it, it’s really telling he wears robes that scream ‘warlock’ and makes those wild gestures when ‘casting spells’. But the bandits are buying it…” <<else>>\ “This must belong to Siegfried,” thought Rosalinda. “So, he’s an actor. That makes sense.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $siegfriedclue1 == true>>\ <<partfullname>> turned to Siegfried, who was sitting in the corner, frozen in fear. “If the illusions change their form depending on the victim, and he’s an actor, could it be he’s having the worst case of stage fright imaginable?” <</if>>\ <</if>>\

The false warlock was sitting motionlessly on the floor. His eyes were wide open, but he could not see <<partfullname>>. He was silent for a long time, then he whispered, almost too quietly for <<partfullname>> to hear: “They hate me. I can’t do this. I’m the worst.” “So, he thinks he’s failing at some task,” thought <<partfullname>>. “If we could convince him otherwise, maybe he could shake off the illusion? But what task is it? <<if $siegfriedclue2>>Wait… if he’s a professional actor, could it be he’s having the worst case of stage fright ever?<</if>>” <<link "Continue" "Side Room">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Can you hear me?” asked Piecrust, sitting down on Siegfried’s knee. The man wasn’t even shaking, which worried Piecrust. “He’s absolutely terrified,” he thought. Once again, as loud as he could, he asked: “Can you hear me, Siegfried? What you’re seeing is not real. It’s an illusion. You can wake up from it; I know you can.” The man did not respond, or in any way signal he heard Piecrust at all. “This won’t do,” thought the mouse. “Either his will is weaker than mine and Norbert’s, or you really do need to follow a friend’s voice to free yourself from this nightmare. But we don’t know any of his friends. Is there another way?<<if $siegfriedclue1 && $siegfriedclue2>> If he’s an actor experiencing paralysing stage fright, could we convince him he’s doing great?<</if>>” <<else>>\ “Please, wake up, Mister Siegfried,” asked Rosalinda, trying to sound calm and reassuring. The man did not respond, or in any way signal he heard her at all. “This is only a dream – a spell,” explained Rosalinda. “You can wake up from it!” Again, no answer. “I don’t think I can do this,” thought Rosalinda with dismay. “He doesn’t even know my voice. If only a friend of his was here to help… But that’s impossible. What to do, then? There must be another way to break the spell!<<if $siegfriedclue1 && $siegfriedclue2>> If he thinks he’s performing, and suffers from stage fright, maybe I could make him believe he’s doing great?<</if>>” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Side Room">><</link>>

Rosalinda hesitated. It seemed silly. But if Siegfried was suffering from stage fright, thinking the audience hated his performance, then she would have to be his audience and change his mind. <<if $activepart == "body">>\ So, she stood right in front of him and started clapping. And what clapping that was! Loud, dry and rattling, it echoed through the room. <<else>>\ So, the arms positioned themselves close together and started clapping. Awkwardly at first, then with more confidence, faster and louder, making a rattling noise that echoed through the room. <</if>>\ Siegfried flinched. He turned his head towards <<if $activepart == "body">>Rosalinda<<else>>the arms<</if>>. What he saw was not a skeleton clapping for him in a dungeon room, but a theatre filled with an audience. “They’re making fun of me,” he uttered. “They can’t be enjoying this. I’m terrible.” Rosalinda continued clapping with stubborn determination.<<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>> She started to cheer for him, too, shouting “Amazing!” and “What a show!” as loud as she dared to<<elseif $skullloc == "Side Room">>Her skull joined in, shouting “Amazing!” and “What a show!” as loud as she dared to<<elseif $bodyloc == "Side Room" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>The rest of her body joined in, shouting “Amazing!” and “What a show!” as loud as she dared to<</if>>. Slowly, Siegfried’s expression transformed into an unsure smile. “Maybe they actually…” he whispered. “Then I have to deliver!” Suddenly, he jumped to his feet and cleared his throat. “And so, the fateful hour has come!” he proclaimed loudly. “Soon, I shall peel back the curtain and reveal his vile scheme for all to see! But what of the sister? The sweet soul? Won’t the truth crush her –” Rosalinda had to admit, he could perform, and had a sonorous voice. Fearing that the bandits would come running to check what was going on, she stopped clapping. Siegfried blinked and shook his head. His eyes became focused as he looked around the room, finally fixing his gaze on <<if $activepart == "body">>Rosalinda<<else>>Rosalinda’s arms<</if>>. “W-what are you?” he asked, backing away. <<link "Continue" "Side Room">><</link>>

Seven captives were toiling in the pit: Tekla and six humans. They were all dirty and miserable, and, except for the ogress, looked exhausted. The two bandits were closely watching the captives, shouting and cursing at them whenever one of them stumbled. Sometimes, they would push them with clubs – but only when Tekla wasn’t looking. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<if hasVisited("Old man talk")>><<link "Talk to the captives">><<makepopuptext "" "“They won’t tell me more than what they already did,” thought Piecrust. “They exhausted and afraid, and believe there is an army of bandits waiting for them in the upper levels. We must do something to convince them otherwise.”">><</link>><<else>><<link "Talk to the captives" "Captives talk">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>><</if>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>><<link "Talk to the captives">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda could not approach the captives without alerting the guards.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "skull">><<link "Talk to the captives">><<makepopuptext "" "The skull couldn’t walk to the captives, and even if it could, it would surely be detected by the guards.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body">><<link "Talk to the captives">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda couldn’t talk without her skull on, and she wouldn’t be able to approach the captives without alerting the guards anyway.">><</link>> <<else>><<link "Talk to the captives">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> couldn’t talk, and it wouldn’t be able to approach the captives without alerting the guards anyway.">><</link>> <</if>>

Piecrust plucked up his courage and ran towards the captives. One of the bandit guards noticed him and threw a stone at him, but missed. He shrugged and went back to complaining about being tired to his companion. “One advantage of being a mouse,” thought Piecrust. “No one pays attention to you. Other than cats and owls, of course. I hope there aren’t any around.” He stopped in the pit and looked closely at the human captives. They were four men and two women, dressed like labourers. They were so tired they could barely move. “Aurelia is going to pay for this,” thought Piecrust. He wondered if the captives were lured by false promises, or just kidnapped. “Hey, can you hear me?” he asked, quietly. “I’m here to help you. Don’t worry, me and my friends will get you out of here.” The captives paid no attention to him. One woman looked at him when she passed him by, carrying a large stone. Her gaze was empty. “Enchanted or exhausted,” thought the mouse. He looked around and saw an elderly man resting with his back against the wall deep in the tunnel, where the bandits could not see him well. He looked even weaker than the rest, as if he was on the verge of collapsing, but there was a spark in his eyes as he watched his surroundings, trying to stay hidden. <<link "Get the attention of the old man" "Old man talk">><</link>>

The hole was really small. Only a mouse would fit in. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust sniffed at the entrance to the hole, but couldn’t smell any mice, nor food. The hole must have been abandoned, likely for as long as the ruined city. <<link "Go into the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust entered the hole and found a tunnel leading north, into another room.">><<moveto "Aurelia’s Study">><<set $holeused to true>><</link>> <</if>>

<<if hasVisited("Aurelia and Figg") != true>><<goto "Aurelia and Figg">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a small room turned into a study. It was comfortably furnished. There were <<object "bookshelves">>, chairs, a carpet and a <<if $casting || $using>><<object "table with papers">><<else>><<link "table with papers" "Read Notes">><</link>><</if>> scattered across. <<object "Aurelia">> was sitting in a chair, reading a book. <<object "Figg">> was sitting on the opposite side of the room, with his <<object "bodyguard">> standing by his side. There was a <<object "mouse hole1">> in the eastern wall of the room, just behind the table. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Go through the mouse hole to the eastern [-> Side Room]">><<moveto "Side Room">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

The sorceress looked engrossed in her book, but <<partfullname>> noticed she wasn’t really turning any pages. Often, she would nervously tap her foot. “It seems like she’s mostly here to watch over Figg,” thought Piecrust. “She probably wishes she could be on the dig site instead. Well, if that is the case, the councilman surely did us a favour.”

Philemon Figg was nervous. He kept sitting down on his chair, then standing up, pacing around for a while and twirling his cane with gold handle. Aurelia did not look at him, but whenever he made a noise, she quietly sighed or twitched. <<= either("“Why aren’t they working faster?” asked Figg. “If they don’t get into the treasure room soon, I’ll have to return to the city. I have a trial to attend in the morning, and I would like to catch at least some sleep. Or – maybe the trial won’t take place, since Lydia went missing? Poor old Lydia, how surprised she must have been!”", "“Did you add my latest expenses to the list?” asked Figg. “I hope you won’t forget to compensate me for all the money invested before we share the remainder of the treasure.”", "“If I knew there was so much gold hidden in those ruins, I would have started looking for it a long time ago,” said Figg. “I’m not even angry at the Chosen, you know? Without them, someone would surely have looted this place already.”", "“Ooh, my stomach starts to act up again,” complained the Councilman. “I can hardly stand the waiting. Of course I had to misplace my medicine.”")>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ Piecrust ran to the table and climbed up one of its legs. He was ready to dart back to the mouse hole at any time, but the people in the room did not notice him. “No one pays attention to mice,” he thought with relief. “And my magic is so weak Aurelia can’t even detect it.” He, on the other hand, sensed the powerful aura of the sorceress. He approached the pile of papers. He saw maps of the area and letters, and a notebook, which immediately caught his attention. It was written in an ancient script only known by mages, and some historians. “This must be Aurelia’s,” he thought. “It seems to concern her endeavours here. It looks like she hopes to keep it safe from prying eyes of her ‘allies’. I’m sure she didn’t count on a mouse versed in ancient languages appearing in her study!” <<default>>\ Once again, Piecrust climbed onto the table to take a look at Aurelia’s notes. <</switch>> <<link "Read the early notes" "Early notes">><</link>> <<link "Read the middle notes" "Middle notes">><</link>> <<link "Read the late notes" "Late notes">><</link>>

The earliest notes were written in the common alphabet and described Aurelia’s day-to-day work and research. Then, halfway through the notebook, the writing switched to the ancient script. The earliest coded notes were neatly arranged, in elegant handwriting. They concerned Aurelia’s growing interest in Archwall. The mage spent some time travelling across the land, looking for ancient tomes and documents about the city and its masters. She came to the conclusion that, contrary to popular belief, not all of Archwall was destroyed, and the ruins were not ‘haunted’. She believed great power and spells forgotten for centuries lay hidden somewhere in Archwood, most likely deep underground. She also made a note about ‘manual labour’ required to excavate the ruins. <<link "Read the middle notes" "Middle notes">><</link>> <<link "Read the late notes" "Late notes">><</link>> <<link "Climb down from the table" "Aurelia’s Study">><</link>>

Most notes in the middle of the notebook were hastily written. They recounted Aurelia’s search for a sponsor to start the excavation in Archwood, and how Light’s Chosen had heard about it. Apparently, the Chosen strictly prohibited Aurelia from continuing her research, on the grounds that Archwall magic was too dangerous to be brought back. “They did not believe I could find anything, really, but still they berated me for trying and ordered me around. They said it was ‘against the law’. Fools. Magic, which they disrespect so much, is above all law.” The notes continued, describing how the sorceress went to one person she knew was both rich and greedy enough to support her knowing that what she was planning was illegal. Councilman Philemon Figg eagerly agreed to lend Aurelia some money to hire people and start the excavation. He suggested hiring bandits who, if they for some reason turned against them, wouldn’t report anything to the Chosen for fear of imprisonment for old crimes. “Councilman Figg is cunning,” commented Aurelia. “He’ll be of great help, as long as he believes there is gold to be found at the end.” Figg also solved the problem of their representative; just out of an abundance of caution, neither of the conspirators wanted to talk directly to the hired thugs, so the coucilman convinced an actor he knew to play the role of a “warlock” searching the ruins. “The actor is reasonably good at portraying a sorcerer, if a little over-the-top,” remarked Aurelia. “But that’s what the bandits expect.” The last task Figg agreed to take upon was keeping the Chosen busy in Greywall with false reports of suspicious activity. The duo realised, however, that the solution would not work for long if the guards never discovered anything even remotely similar to the reports. So, Aurelia researched spells and used an artefact from her collection to summon a demon of moderate power, who happily agreed to sow chaos in Greywall. A note jotted down just a few days later stated the “pathetic excuse for a demon” ran into a patrol and, instead of tearing the Chosen into pieces, got defeated and banished. This frustrated Aurelia, as she was forced to visit the city and cast illusions spells on people wandering the streets at night, creating fake ‘possessed’. This slowed down her research in the ruins, but the plan worked: the Chosen were busy arresting and interrogating the enchanted and had no time to watch over Aurelia, or Archwood. “How fitting their arrogance turned against them,” noted the sorceress. “If they respected mages more, and called any one of them to check on the arrestees, they would have found out the truth.” <<link "Read the early notes" "Early notes">><</link>> <<link "Read the late notes" "Late notes">><</link>> <<link "Climb down from the table" "Aurelia’s Study">><</link>>

The latest notes were even more hastily written and harder to read. Aurelia kept mistaking two of the ancient letters for one another, suggesting she was nervous. Apparently, she became more and more worried about the Chosen coming to the ruins, and wanted to speed up the work. When Figg was hesitant about giving her money to hire more bandits, she decided to kidnap workers, and soon after ambushed a caravan passing by Archwood. “I had to cast a spell on the merchants to keep them from fleeing, but now everything is in order. The captives are digging, and the bandits, who became strangely loyal to ‘Siegfried’ (even if only for fear of ‘his’) magic, are guarding the place. I’ll think about putting up some magical alarms, too.” Later, Aurelia expressed her excitement at discovering the magic aura lingering in the lower ruins. She believed they were close to the object of her search. “Unfortunately, even with my power strengthened, the ancient mechanisms in the ruins still do not respond to my spells. I have to conclude they are broken.” <<if $spells.includes("ActivateMechanism")>>\ “So, she doesn’t know the chant to activate them,” thought Piecrust with satisfaction. <</if>>\ In the same note, the sorceress complained about Figg’s visits to the ruins becoming more and more frequent. “I’m so tired of the buffoon and his ‘watching over his investments’. Sometimes, I wish I could just disintegrate him, but if a Greywall Councilman disappears, there’s bound to be a thorough investigation. I have to suffer him for now. If there truly is a mind-control spell hidden here, this will solve all issues with Figg in their due time. He will be a prime test subject.” <<switch visited()>><<case 1>><<set $learnaboutmindcontrol to true>>\ Piecrust’s fur stood up when he read the final note. “So, this is what she’s looking for! A mind control spell! The one the wizards of Archwall used to turn their subjects into obedient slaves!” He started shaking with anger and disgust. “How could she even think of using it? It’s against all magic should be? Wasn’t she satisfied with being a renowned scholar? And… how many people does she wish to control in the end? Is she planning a return of Archwall, with herself as the tyrant wizard?” <</switch>>\ <<link "Read the early notes" "Early notes">><</link>> <<link "Read the middle notes" "Middle notes">><</link>> <<link "Climb down from the table" "Aurelia’s Study">><</link>>

The hole was really small. Only a mouse would fit in. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust sniffed at the entrance to the hole, but couldn’t smell any mice, nor food. The hole must have been abandoned, likely for as long as the ruined city. <<link "Go into the hole">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust entered the hole and found a tunnel leading south, into another room.">><<moveto "Side Room">><<set $holeused to true>><</link>> <</if>>

Piecrust wondered if this was a good idea – wouldn’t the man call out to the guards if he saw a talking mouse? “Unlikely,” he decided. “He’s trying to avoid their attention, after all.” He ran towards the captive and stopped right in front of him. The man looked at the mouse indifferently, but his eyes grew large when Piecrust began to talk. “Please, don’t scream,” said Piecrust. “I’m a wizard in disguise. We’re here to free you all.” “You are a what?” asked the old man in a hoarse whisper. “I’m enchanted. Trust me, please. I’m here to help. Can you and the others walk out into the courtyard if we deal with the guards here?” The man responded with a bitter laughter which almost immediately turned into coughing. “I’m seeing things again,” he said to himself. “I should get back to work before they grow suspicious, I really should.” “No, please – I’m real – not an illusion!” “I don’t believe you. Talking mice? It’s another spell. He’s playing with us, offering us hope. No, no, I won’t try to run away. No one will. It’s certain death. There are guards.” “Just two of them. I could –” “Two? Go to the upper rooms. There’s dozens, armed to the teeth. You’d need an army to defeat them. No, there is no hope. Hide, talking mouse, before they catch you as well. But you don’t have to fear capture, do you? You’re an illusion after all.” The captive closed his eyes, ignoring Piecrust’s pleas to listen. “Poor souls,” thought the mouse with dismay, glancing around at the remaining captives. “Aurelia must have shown them an illusion on their way to the dig site. Now they’re convinced the place is crawling with bandits. How devilishly clever of her! They’re convinced they saw the guards with their very eyes. Breaking the spell won’t help them – there’s no longer a spell to break.” <<link "Continue" "Dig Site">><</link>>

Rosalinda hesitated. “So… we’re facing a very powerful mage. Can you defeat her?” “Not in a head-on confrontation. I don’t even have a fraction of that power. I sense a source of magic deep in the ruins. It strengthened me a little, but it also made Aurelia stronger. We must outsmart her, that’s what we have to do. What are you grinning at?” “Well, this may not be the time or the place, but I was thinking you’ve become much more open talking about your, well, weakness. You used to be so ashamed of it!” “I grew to accept it. It was either this, or die doing something reckless. Or live in fear as a mouse.” Rosalinda smiled. “So, what do we do about Aurelia? Is there a way of evening the odds?” “I’m not sure. If we find that source of magic and disable it… well, it will weaken Aurelia considerably. She will still be strong, but we might have a chance of defeating her. But first, we must get into the heart of the ruins without alerting Aurelia. She must not discover the knowledge of the Archwall wizards. <<if $learnaboutmindcontrol == true>>I found her notes. She thinks the secret of mind control is hidden here. I’m afraid she is planning to use it, too.<</if>> It pains me as a scholar, but whatever magic books and scrolls we find, we should destroy.” Rosalinda looked at him seriously. “Understood. We must sneak deep into the ruins, destroy the thing Aurelia is looking for and disable the source of magic.” “Exactly. We might then stand a chance. And even if we lose, we’ll stop Aurelia – and whoever else might want to use the magic of Archwall – from committing some truly horrible acts.” <<link "“I saw a sick woman in the Citadel prison,” said Rosalinda. “She seemed to be a victim of an illusion spell, too.”" "woman illusion">><</link>> <<link "Continue" $location>><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ The false warlock was pale and shaken, but did his best to stay composed. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Hello there,” said Piecrust, approaching him. Siegfried jumped up. “Who – what – are you –” “Don’t panic. I’m here to stop Aurelia. I believe you don’t want to side with her any longer, so you could help me and my friends defeat her.” A look of utter confusion appeared on the actor’s face. “B-but you’re a mouse.” Piecrust sighed. “You are stating the obvious. The important thing is, I used to be a wizard. I know magic. And my friend, the skeleton who woke you up, is extremely talented at solving difficult problems. Come on, Siegfried. Aurelia is dangerous. If she finds what she’s looking for, she might hurt many more innocent people.” Siegfried hid his face in his hands. “Just what have I gotten myself into…” he muttered. Then, he looked at the mouse. “Maybe I’m crazy, but I believe you. I’ll help you if I can. I want to get out of here, too, and after what happened I’m starting to believe the sorceress is not just going to let me go. But, you know, I’m not really a warlock. And my name is not even Siegfried. I don’t know what I could do to stop Aurelia.” <<else>>\ “Hello!” said <<partfullname>>. “Please, don’t scream. I’m not an evil skeleton. I’m here to help.” The man opened his mouth, then shut them, then rubbed his eyes. “You’re still here,” he said. “Does this mean you’re not an illusion? No, you can’t be. Aurelia’s illusions are always terrifying and you’re not trying to hurt me.” “I would never,” promised Rosalinda. “In fact, I woke you up from the nightmare you were having. You see, I’m here with Piecrust because some of our friends were kidnapped, and we want to free them. I hoped you could help us.” Siegfried looked utterly confused. “Help? You? Me? How? And who is Piecrust?” “He’s a wizard. He was turned into a mouse, but can still use magic, and used to know Aurelia. He says she must be stopped before she finds whatever she’s looking for in the ruins.” Siegfried trembled and hid his face in his hands. “Aurelia. Oh, what have I gotten myself into… I no longer believe she will let me go.” He looked at Rosalinda and nodded. “I must be crazy, but I’ll help you. I want to get out of here, too. But I have no idea how we could stop Aurelia and her bandits. I’m not really a warlock. And my name is not Siegfried. Even that is fake.” <</if>>\ <<default>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tekla Opens Passage")>>\ “This isn’t good,” muttered Siegfried. “Aurelia knows something is going on, and from what I can hear, she’s getting angrier every moment.” <<elseif hasVisited("Siegfried guards")>>\ “So far, Aurelia hasn’t appeared,” said Siegfried. “The guards leaving went unnoticed. I think we might have a chance.” <<else>>\ “Have you come up with a plan to stop Aurelia?” asked Siegfried hopefully. <</if>>\ <</switch>>\ <<link "“How did you end up working for Aurelia?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried backstory">><</link>> <<link "“Do you know what exactly Aurelia is looking for?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried treasure">><</link>> <<link "“Why did you want Albert to be your servant?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried Albert">><</link>> <<link "“What is your real name?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried name">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Convince Tekla") && hasVisited("Siegfried guards") != true>>\ <<link "“I need you to deal with the guards near the dig site,” said <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried guards">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Side Room">><</link>>

“I’m an actor, as you’ve figured out already. I had some experience playing villains, too. A few months ago, my troupe was giving a private show for Councilman Philemon Figg in Greywall. After the play, the Councilman took me to the side to tell me he absolutely loved my performance, and that he had a special job only I could do, very well paid. I agreed – I wasn’t exactly rolling in cash. It turned out the ‘job’ was pretending to be a warlock and commanding a bunch of bandits, so that they don’t know they’re working for Figg and his accomplice Aurelia. I knew beforehand it wasn’t legal, but I was made to believe they were simply looking for treasure in Archwood, which is forbidden by Light’s Chosen for no good reason. So, yes, I ended up here, as Siegfried the warlock. At first, it was fine. I was acting out whatever Aurelia told me to say and the bandits were digging. Then, there was the kidnapping, and Aurelia started casting spells on people.” He trembled. “Her magic is terrifying. We won’t stand a chance if she sees us escaping.” “We’ll try to make sure she won’t,” said <<partfullname>>. “Great. I just want to be out of here. But I feel like I must help the prisoners, too. I feel guilty. I’ve never even tried to defend them. I was too afraid. Oh, I shouldn’t have accepted this job. Come to think of it, Aurelia and Figg probably never intended to let me leave. I know their identities, after all.” His face started losing colour as he contemplated that. <<if hasVisited("Aurelia and Figg") != true>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “So, Figg is involved, too,” thought Piecrust. “I knew he was suspicious. Pretends to be a respectful citizen, but gets involved in kidnappings and shady magic to enrich himself.” <<else>>\ “So, Councilman Figg is involved in this!” thought Rosalinda. “What a piece of work! When he wanted to see me destroyed, I tried not to hold that against him because I thought he feared for the safety of Greywall. But it looks like he only cares about his wealth!” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "“Do you know what exactly Aurelia is looking for?” asked <<partfullname>>" "Siegfried treasure">><</link>> <<link "“Why did you want Albert to be your servant?” asked <<partfullname>>" "Siegfried Albert">><</link>> <<link "“What is your real name?” asked <<partfullname>>" "Siegfried name">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Convince Tekla") && hasVisited("Siegfried guards") != true>>\ <<link "I need you to deal with the guards near the dig site,” said <<partfullname>>" "Siegfried guards">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Side Room">><</link>>

“I’m not sure. I thought it was just gold and other treasure. Councilman Figg is convinced of that, too, otherwise he wouldn’t be helping Aurelia. But now I no longer think Aurelia is after gold, and I don’t think she’s being honest with Figg. There must be something magical down in the ruins.” <<link "“How did you end up working for Aurelia?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried backstory">><</link>> <<link "“Why did you want Albert to be your servant?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried Albert">><</link>> <<link "“What is your real name?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried name">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Convince Tekla") && hasVisited("Siegfried guards") != true>>\ <<link "I need you to deal with the guards near the dig site,” said <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried guards">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Side Room">><</link>>

<<set $anthony to true>>\ “Anthony. My employers insisted I started using ‘Siegfried’ though, because they didn’t think Anthony was a good name for a warlock. I think I’ll stick with ‘Siegfried’ until we’ve escaped this place. I wouldn’t want to mess up in front of the bandits.” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “The bandits are too terrified of you to care, even if you introduced yourself to them as Bimsy Butterbottoms,” said Piecrust. <<else>>\ “The bandits could be surprised, but I doubt they would do anything about that,” said Rosalinda. “They’re afraid of ‘your’ magic.” <</if>>\ The false warlock nodded. “I know. Aurelia made sure they feared me. I’m ashamed to admit, at first I even enjoyed ‘punishing’ them with spells. Now that I’ve been on the receiving end, I feel for them.” <<link "“How did you end up working for Aurelia?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried backstory">><</link>> <<link "“Do you know what exactly Aurelia is looking for?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried treasure">><</link>> <<link "“Why did you want Albert to be your servant?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried Albert">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Convince Tekla") && hasVisited("Siegfried guards") != true>>\ <<link "I need you to deal with the guards near the dig site,” said <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried guards">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Side Room">><</link>>

Siegfried looked at <<partfullname>> in shock. “Me?” he asked. “How?” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Exactly like you’ve been doing so far,” replied the mouse. “They will listen to you. They have no idea you’re a fraud, excuse me, an actor. Just tell them you no longer need them. I’m sure they will be happy to be out of here.” <<else>>\ “Just tell them to leave! You’re their boss, and they have no idea you can’t use magic. They will listen to you.” <</if>>\ The man hesitated, but then nodded in agreement. “You’re right. This could work. I just have to act, like I did before. Ahem.” He cleared his throat. “‘I no longer need your services. You are free to go.’ Or maybe: ‘You failed me. Leave now.’ Hm. Yes. I can do it. They would never attack me. I just have to be confident.” He straightened his robes and assumed a cold, haughty expression, then left the room. <<link "Continue" "Siegfried guards2">><</link>>

Even with no guards present, the captives were slowly shuffling around, removing smaller stones from the tunnel. Half-conscious with exhaustion, they seemed not to notice <<partfullname>>. The only one who was not working, an elderly man, was curled up on the tunnel floor, asleep. He was covered with Tekla’s kitchen apron.

Tekla was working near the blockage in the tunnel – or rather, she pretended to be working, moving rocks back and forth. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “You’re back, Master Piecrust! You won’t believe it – Siegfried just told the guards to leave!” “He’s on our side now,” replied Piecrust. “He regrets working for Aurelia.” “I see. Looks like that Aurelia person is a real troublemaker. Well, I’ll do what I can to help you stop her! Just tell me when to open the passage.” <<else>>\ <<if $rosalindaandtekla != true>><<set $rosalindaandtekla to true>>\ “Miss Rosalinda!” gasped the ogress. “I’m so glad to see you alive! Oh – pardon me. I didn’t mean to offend.” <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ “I’m not offended, Tekla! In fact, I’m glad to see you, too. We need your help to get through this cave-in and stop Aurelia.” “I know! Master Piecrust told me everything. Just tell me when you’re ready!” <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Miss Rosalinda! I’m ready to open the passage. Just tell me when!” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tekla Opens Passage") != true>>\ <<link "Tell Tekla to open the passage">><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "“Rosalinda should be the one to do it,” thought Piecrust. “We need to make sure the passage is big enough for her.”">><<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>><<run Dialog.close()>><<goto "Tekla Opens Passage">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "“I guess I should put myself together before heading there,” thought Rosalinda. “What if I’m missing one of my parts, and Tekla has to close the passage behind us?”">><</if>><</link>> <</if>><</if>>

“Tekla!” Piecrust scampered across the pit and stopped in front of the giantess. “Tekla, it’s me! Come on, we have to leave. If you deal with the guards quietly, we may have a chance to free the prisoners before Aurelia…” Tekla stopped and looked at Piecrust. For the briefest of moments, she smiled, but soon her expression turned to deep sadness. “Master Piecrust!” she whispered. “I’m so glad you are safe. But I can’t leave. I’ve done something horrible.” She looked away in shame. Piecrust was shocked. “What happened?” he gasped. For the life of him, he could not imagine the kindhearted Tekla doing anything horrible. “I harmed some people. I could not control myself. I’m evil, and I don’t deserve any better. I must focus on my work. I don’t want to hurt anyone else.” Piecrust understood what was going on. “No, Tekla!” he said. “It’s not true. It was magic – a malicious illusion cast on us when we crashed. I ran away, convinced there were owls and cats chasing me. And you – you are gentle, and also incredibly strong. Your biggest fear must be hurting someone on accident, am I right? Trust me, Tekla, it did not happen. You did nothing wrong.” Tekla shook her head. “I’m glad you’re trying to comfort me, Master Piecrust, but I’ve seen it with my own eyes.” “No, Tekla. It was a spell. I swear.” <<link "Continue" "Convince Tekla2">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was at the bottom of an old, dried up well. <<if $trapdooropen>>Some light was streaming in from above through an open trapdoor.<<else>>The place almost completely dark.<</if>> There was an opening in the dirt wall to the north-west, leading into a narrow tunnel. <<if hasVisited("CaptainLydia0WaterJet") != true>>\ <<object "Captain Lydia0">> was sitting on the stone floor, asleep.<</if>> <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Enter the tunnel [->Low Tunnels]">><<moveto "Low Tunnels">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

The square metal trapdoor was old and rusty. It looked very heavy. There was an iron ring attached to it. <<link "Open the trapdoor">><<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>><<set $trapdooropen to true>><<makepopuptext "" "Pulling on the iron ring with both hands, Rosalinda managed to open the trapdoor, revealing a deep shaft.">><<elseif $activepart == "body">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda could not open the heavy trapdoor without both of her arms.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> could not move the heavy trapdoor.">><</if>><</link>>\

<<if hasVisited("Old Well")>><<set _movewell to "Go south-west [->Old Well]">><<else>><<set _movewell to "Go south-west">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Secret Passage")>><<set _movepassage to "Go south [->Secret Passage]">><<else>><<set _movepassage to "Go south">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a low earthen tunnel with walls made of clay and dirt. The tunnel split, with one short branch leading north towards an open passage. Another branch went south-west<<if hasVisited("dirtshovel") != true>>, but was blocked with <<object "dirt">><</if>>. A third corridor, long and narrow, led far south. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go north [->Chamber Of Trials]">><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <<link _movepassage>><<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Open passage") != true>><<if $airbubble>><<goto "Noxious Air Air Bubble">><<else>><<goto "Noxious Air">><</if>><<else>><<moveto "Secret Passage">><</if>><</link>> <<if hasVisited("dirtshovel")>>\ <<link _movewell>><<moveto "Old Well">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

Rosalinda grabbed the shovel and looked at the dirt pile with determination. If she could, she would roll up her sleeves and spit on the floor, but she couldn’t, so she simply started digging. After a while, she had dug a passage through the pile. <<link "Continue" "Low Tunnels">><</link>>

A wall of dirt was blocking the passage. <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Dig out the dirt">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> started clawing at the dirt, but couldn’t make much progress. “Without some tool, this will take forever,” thought Rosalinda.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Dig out the dirt">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust started digging fervently, paddling in the dirt with his front paws. Then he realised how little dirt he was removing, compared to the size of the pile. “This isn’t going to help, unless I’m trying to make a den for myself,” he thought, and stopped.">><</link>> <</if>>

The metal trapdoor was open, revealing a deep dark shaft, probably an old well. The walls of the shaft were glistening with moisture.<<if hasVisited("CaptainLydia0WaterJet")>> The shaft was quiet, save for the occasional sound of dripping water. <<elseif hasVisited("Old Well")>><<if $activepart == "piecrust">>“So, Lydia is sitting down there, in a makeshift prison,” thought Piecrust. “Quite ironic. But she doesn’t really deserve it. We should get her out.”<<else>>“They’re keeping Lydia down there. I must help her!” thought Rosalinda.<</if>> <<else>>It was difficult to see what was at the bottom, but <<partfullname>> could hear someone – or something – moving every now and then.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Old Well") != true>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Call out down the shaft">><<makepopuptext "" "“Hello? Is anyone there?” called out Piecrust. There was no response. “My voice must be too small to be heard down there…”">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "Call out down the shaft">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda didn’t want to alert the wrong people, so she didn’t cry out loud, but asked in a low voice: “Who’s there? I want to help you!” She thought she could hear some muffled noises coming from the bottom of the well, but she could not make out any words.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Close the trapdoor">><<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>><<unset $trapdooropen>><<makepopuptext "" "“Better keep it closed to not raise any suspicion,” thought Rosalinda and closed the heavy trapdoor with both hands.">><<elseif $activepart == "body">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda could not move the heavy trapdoor without both of her arms.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> could not move the heavy trapdoor.">><</if>><</link>>\

Through the open door, <<partfullname>> observed Siegfried, who approached the two bandit guards. They took a step back upon seeing him. Siegfried started to talk, pointing at the two and shaking his head. The bandits listened with heads hung low, then eagerly nodded and quietly left the room, disappearing in the tunnel leading to the surface. “You were right,” said Siegfried, beaming, when he returned to the side room. “It was really easy. They were eager to leave. Didn’t even ask for the payment. Well – I guess I’ll stay here for now and pretend I’m still under Aurelia’s spell if she comes back. That way, she won’t be able to blame me for the guards leaving.” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Thank you. Now we should be able to get into the lower level. You did the right thing.” <<else>>\ “You’re a great actor!” said Rosalinda. “Now we can get through the dig site. Stay safe.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Side Room">><</link>>

“The old man? I don’t really know. I mean, he asked himself, or rather begged me. He said he had experience working for a powerful wizard before. He looked scared and I think I took pity on him. Or maybe I was being vain? Having a servant sounded nice. Aurelia wasn’t too happy, but she agreed. I think, though, she became angry at me then. I foolishly thought I could keep questioning her, and you know how that turned out for me. But this reminds me – how is Albert? Is he safe?” Siegfried looked relieved when <<partfullname>> confirmed the old man was out of the ruins, waiting in the courtyard with friends. <<link "“How did you end up working for Aurelia?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried backstory">><</link>> <<link "“Do you know what exactly Aurelia is looking for?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried treasure">><</link>> <<link "“What is your real name?” asked <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried name">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Convince Tekla") && hasVisited("Siegfried guards") != true>>\ <<link "I need you to deal with the guards near the dig site,” said <<partfullname>>." "Siegfried guards">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Side Room">><</link>>

“Can you open the passage, Tekla?” asked Rosalinda. “We need to hurry,” said a tiny voice. She looked down and saw Piecrust. The mouse trembled, but did his best to stay composed. “Right away,” said the ogress. She grabbed a massive piece of rock and started slowly moving it away from the blocked doorway, huffing and puffing from the exertion. One more rock removed, and there was a narrow passage deeper into the glowing tunnel – barely enough for Rosalinda to squeeze through, but enough. Suddenly, Piecrust jumped up. “That gush of energy!” he exclaimed, his fur standing up. “Quick! Move, Rosalinda! Tekla, close the passage behind us. Aurelia must have felt it, too. She will know!” Rosalinda got on her hands and knees and crept forward through the opening. Piecrust was running besides her. The ogress hurriedly moved the large rocks back in place, leaving no trace of the opening. She was barely done when footsteps could be heard on the other side. “Where are the guards?” demanded a female voice. “Who used magic here?” “I-I think the guards were just tired and went to sleep,” answered Tekla meekly. “I haven’t done anything to them. I was working all the time.” “I see I’ll have to watch over you myself. You there – move! Why is the ogress the only one working?” “I fear for poor Tekla,” whispered Rosalinda. “Aurelia won’t harm her as long as she needs her,” replied Piecrust. “Tekla seems to be a better liar than I expected. She will be fine.” “What if Aurelia loses her patience and just blasts the cave-in with magic?” “She wouldn’t dare to. She would risk destroying the secrets she’s looking for. Now, let’s go, find those secrets, and end this!” <<link "Continue">><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><<set $bodyloc to "Chamber Of Trials">><<set $piecrustloc to "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

In the courtyard, Osmund, Albert and Norbert were standing around two tied-up men. “Oh, it’s you,” said Norbert, noticing <<partfullname>>. “These two ran out of the ruins and into us. They were a bit unpleasant, so we had to teach them a lesson. Turns out that kid knows a bit about fighting,” he added, pointing at Osmund. “I would be dead if you hadn’t bitten him, Mister Norbert,” said the novice. “And thank Heavens we had the numbers.” <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ The partially-unearthed tunnel had its walls lined with small rectangular tiles, which were faintly glowing in the darkness, shimmering like a starry sky. <<if hasVisited("Tekla Opens Passage")>>\ The tunnel ended in a doorway, filled in with large rocks Tekla has put back in place. <<else>>\ It ended in a large pile of dirt and rubble, which was currently being removed by the captives. “It must lead to the treasure those villains are after,” thought Piecrust. “And it looks like they’re going to reach it soon.” Piecrust wondered if he could find a way through the cave-in, but decided against trying. His instincts were warning him the tunnel was dangerous. Without Rosalinda by his side, he didn’t want to risk it. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ The partially-unearthed tunnel had its walls lined with small rectangular tiles, which were faintly glowing in the darkness, shimmering like a starry sky. <<if hasVisited("Tekla Opens Passage")>>\ The tunnel ended in a doorway, filled in with large rocks Tekla has put back in place. <<else>>\ It ended in a large pile of dirt and rubble, which was currently being removed by the captives. <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Low Tunnels")>><<set _movetunnels to "Go south [->Low Tunnels]">><<else>><<set _movetunnels to "Go south">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Ancient Library")>><<set _movelibrary to "Go east [->Ancient Library]">><<else>><<set _movelibrary to "Go east">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if hasVisited("Aurelia Escapes")>>\ <<partfullname>> was in an octagonal chamber. The floor, walls and ceiling were made of black stone dotted with silvery specks which gave off dim light. To the west, there was a corridor which led towards the higher levels of the ruins. To the south was an entrance to a low, earthen tunnel. To the east, a passage lead to the Ancient Library. A <<object "horned demon">> was blocking the passage to the Library, where Aurelia had escaped. <<object "Lydia0">> was staring at the demon. <<object "Tekla5">> was kneeling on the ground, clutching her head with both hands. In the back of the room, <<object "Siegfried0">> was standing next to <<object "Figg0">>, watching him closely. <<object "Figg’s bodyguard0">>, unconscious, was spread on the floor nearby. <<elseif hasVisited("Aurelia Confrontation")>>\ <<partfullname>> was in an octagonal chamber. The floor, walls and ceiling were made of black stone dotted with silvery specks which gave off dim light. To the west, there was a corridor which led towards the higher levels of the ruins. To the south was an entrance to a low, earthen tunnel. To the east, a passage lead to the Ancient Library. A fight was going on in the chamber.<<if hasVisited("Piecrust Aurelia")>> <<object "Piecrust0">> and <<object "Aurelia0">> were firing spells at each other. <<object "Siegfried0">> watched on, his fists clenched, while also blocking <<object "Figg0">>’s way out of the room.<<else>> <<object "Aurelia0">> was readying a fire spell, ready to cast it at <<object "Siegfried0">>, who was blocking <<object "Figg0">>’s way out of the room.<</if>> <<object "Tekla5">> was kneeling on the ground, clutching her head with both hands. <<if hasVisited("Defeat bodyguard")>><<object "Lydia0">> was eyeing Aurelia, waiting for a chance to attack. <<object "Figg’s bodyguard0">>, unconscious, was spread on the floor nearby.<<else>><<object "Lydia0">> was lying on her back. <<object "Figg’s bodyguard">> was on top of her, trying to <<if hasVisited("daggerRust")>>choke her out<<else>>strike her with a <<object "dagger">><</if>>.<</if>> <<else>>\ <<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ <<partfullname>> was chased by a massive armoured <<object "construct0">> which trudged around the chamber swinging its fists. <<if hasVisited("CaptainLydia0WaterJet") && $lydiahassword != true>>\ “Watch out!” cried out Captain Lydia. “Curse it! If only I had a sword…” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $chasedbyconstruct != true>><<partfullname>> was in an octagonal chamber. The floor, walls and ceiling were made of black stone dotted with silvery specks which gave off dim light. <</if>>In the middle of the chamber there were two circular <<object "pressure plates">> on the floor. To the west, there was a corridor which ended in a <<if $chasedbyconstruct && $using != true && $casting != true>><<link "pile of rocks" "Hide behind rocks">><</link>><<else>><<object "pile of rocks">><</if>>. To the south was an entrance to a low, earthen tunnel. To the east <<if hasVisited("Remove barrier")>>a passage lead to another, larger chamber<<else>>an arched passage was blocked by a <<object "shimmering barrier">><</if>>. Above the barrier, an <<object "inscription">> was carved into the rock wall. <<if hasVisited("Beat construct") && $constructcontrolled != true>>Close by, the <<if $skullonconstruct>><<object "construct with Rosalinda’s skull">><<elseif hasVisited("Remove barrier")>><<object "construct’s remains">><<else>><<object "headless construct">><</if>> was lying on the floor.<<elseif $lydiafightsconstruct>>In the middle of the Chamber, <<object "Captain Lydia9">> was fighting an armoured <<object "construct">>.<<elseif $chasedbyconstruct != true && hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>>In front of the blocked passage stood an imposing, armoured <<object "construct">>.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("CaptainLydia0WaterJet") && hasVisited("Remove barrier") != true && $lydiafightsconstruct != true>>\ <<if $using || $casting>><<object "Captain Lydia1">><<else>><<link "Captain Lydia" "Talk to Lydia1">><</link>><</if>> was standing <<if $lydiaonplate>>on one of the pressure plates in the chamber.<<if $piecrustloc == "On a Pressure Plate">> Piecrust was next to her. The plate was pressed and the runes on it were glowing<<else>> The plate was pressed, but the runes on it were dark<</if>><<else>>next to the southern tunnel entrance<</if>>. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ <<link _movetunnels "Beat construct">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "construct">>\ <<link _movetunnels>><<makepopuptext "" "The tunnel was too low for her new body, and Rosalinda wasn’t going to risk getting her skull smashed.">><</link>> <<elseif hasVisited("Aurelia Confrontation")>>\ <<link _movetunnels>><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was not going to leave his friends to die at the hands of Aurelia.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda was not going to run away, leaving everyone at Aurelia’s mercy.">><</if>><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link _movetunnels>><<moveto "Low Tunnels">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Remove barrier")>>\ <<if hasVisited("Aurelia Escapes")>>\ <<link _movelibrary>><<makepopuppass "" "Sneak fail">><</link>>\ <<elseif hasVisited("Aurelia Confrontation")>>\ <<link _movelibrary>><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was not going to leave his friends to die at the hands of Aurelia.">><<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">><<makepopuptext "" "The arm crawled towards the entrance to the library. If it could just find the black crystal… Aurelia noticed the arm as it was creeping past her and kicked it away. “Keep off, undead vermin!” she yelled.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda was not going to run away, leaving everyone at Aurelia’s mercy.">><</if>><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link _movelibrary>><<moveto "Ancient Library">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Aurelia Confrontation")>>\ <<link "Go West [->Dig Site]">><<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was not going to leave his friends to die at the hands of Aurelia.">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda was not going to run away, leaving everyone at Aurelia’s mercy.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Aurelia Confrontation") || $chasedbyconstruct>>\ <<else>>\ <<fasttravel>> <</if>>\

<<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ <<partfullname>> desperately tried to escape the lumbering construct and could not focus on the inscription. <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust looked at the inscription for a long while, deciphering the ancient writing. “‘Chamber Of Trials,’” he read out loud. “‘If two worthy come as friends, the way shall open. May the unworthy perish’.<<if hasVisited("Activate plates") != true>> How can we prove we are worthy?<</if>>” <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> studied the flowery lines of ancient writing, not understanding any of it. <<if $piecrustloc == "Chamber Of Trials">>\ “It’s a warning inscription. Or instructions of sorts,” explained Piecrust. “The writing says: ‘Chamber Of Trials. If two worthy come as friends, the way shall open. May the unworthy perish.’” <<if hasVisited("Activate plates") != true>>\ “Do you think the ‘worthy’ are mages?” asked Rosalinda. “Since Archwall was ruled by them?” “That sounds correct.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if $hitwithshovel>>\ The metal hit the bone with a terrible noise. The construct teetered and stopped attacking Lydia. Rosalinda hit it again, and again, smashing its already cracked skull into pieces. The flames inside the construct’s eye sockets died down and the colossus collapsed, raising a cloud of dust. “Good job,” said Lydia, exhausted from the fight. She kicked the toppled enemy with satisfaction. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<unset $casting, $using, $chasedbyconstruct, $hidebody, $hidelarm, $hiderarm, $hideskull, $hidepiecrust>>\ <<partfullname>> ran towards the tunnel, the construct following closely. <<if hasVisited("CaptainLydia0WaterJet")>>\ Captain Lydia moved out of the way. “Keep distracting it!” she said, looking around the chamber for anything to use as a weapon. <</if>>\ <<partfullname>> reached the tunnel, barely avoiding being trampled. The construct was not going to give up the chase. But the construct was tall, and the tunnel entrance – low. There was a loud crack when the golem’s skull crashed into the stone wall, shattering into pieces. The armoured body of the construct, now headless, made a few wobbly steps, then collapsed with an even louder thud, raising a cloud of dust. Its arms and legs kept twitching for a short while, until all its movements stopped for good. <<if hasVisited("CaptainLydia0WaterJet")>>\ Lydia put down a rock she was about to throw at the golem. “Good job,” she said. <</if>>\ <<if $piecrustloc == "Chamber Of Trials">>\ Piecrust looked at the toppled colossus. “A beautiful piece of artifice, but not very intelligent. Lucky for us.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if $lydiafightsconstruct>>\ The construct was swinging its fists, trying to punch Lydia, who dodged or blocked the attacks with her sword. Unlike the Captain, the automaton did not seem to be growing tired. <<else>>\ The construct was made of a suit of black armour. It had no helmet, and in place of the head, it had a skull. Green flames were shimmering in its eye sockets. It was standing perfectly still, like a statue. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “A magical sentinel!” thought Piecrust. “It seems powerful.” <</if>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Approach the construct">><<goto "Chased by construct">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<set $chasedbyconstruct to true>>\ <<set $hidebody to true>>\ <<set $hidelarm to true>>\ <<set $hiderarm to true>>\ <<set $hideskull to true>>\ <<set $hidepiecrust to true>>\ <<if $activepart == "body">><<unset $hidebody>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "larm">><<unset $hidelarm>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "rarm">><<unset $hiderarm>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">><<unset $hidepiecrust>>\ <</if>>\ As soon as <<partfullname>> approached <<if $barriertouched>><<unset $barriertouched>>the barrier, the construct blocked the way<<else>>the construct, it moved<</if>>. Raising its armoured fists to attack, it started chasing after <<partfullname>>. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Curse it!” squeaked Piecrust, trying to avoid getting stomped on. “How do we turn this thing off?” <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> ran away, trying not to get pulverized. <<if $activepart == "body">>She<<else>>it<</if>> weaved and dodged. The giant construct was faster than one would expect, and relentless. “How do I get away from it?” thought Rosalinda. <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ <<partfullname>> desperately tried to escape the lumbering construct and could not focus on the pressure plates. <<elseif hasVisited("Remove barrier")>>\ The plates had already been activated, and the passage into the Ancient Library was open. <<else>>\ The stone pressure plates were circular, and decorated with carved runes. <<if $piecrustloc == "On a Pressure Plate" && $lydiaonplate>>\ Piecrust and Lydia were standing on one of the plates. The plate was pressed and the runes on it were glowing. <<elseif $piecrustloc == "On a Pressure Plate">>\ Piecrust was standing on one of the plates. The runes on the plate were glowing, but the plate was not pressed. <<elseif $lydiaonplate>>\ Captain Lydia was standing on one of the plates. The plate was pressed, but the runes on it were dark. <</if>>\ <<if $plate1pressed>>\ The armoured construct with Rosalinda’s skull was standing on one of the plates. The plate was pressed and the runes on it were glowing. <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Stand on a plate">><<if $lydiaonplate>><<set $plate2pressed to true>><<if $backonplate>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust stepped back on the pressed plate where Captain Lydia was standing. The runes on the plate started glowing once more.">><<else>><<set $backonplate to true>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust ran to Lydia. “Those plates detect both weight and magical power, it seems,” he explained. “I believe together we may trick them into accepting us as a normal wizard.” Lydia frowned, but said nothing. Piecrust stepped onto a plate and immediately the runes carved into the stone started glowing.">><</if>><<if $plate1pressed>><<goto "Remove barrier">><<else>><<goto "On a Pressure Plate">><<moveto "On a Pressure Plate">><</if>><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust stepped onto one of the plates. The runes carved into the stone started glowing faintly, but nothing else happened. “It seems I am activating something, but to press the plate, we need more weight,” he thought.">><<goto "On a Pressure Plate">><<moveto "On a Pressure Plate">><</if>><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Walk onto a plate">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> walked onto one of the plates and stayed there for a moment, but nothing happened. “It looks like those bones are too light to press the plate!” thought Rosalinda.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "construct">>\ <<link "Stand on a plate">><<set $plate1pressed to true>><<makepopuptext "" "As soon as the construct stepped onto one of the plates, it lowered with a loud clicking noise. The runes decorating the plate started glowing faintly.">><<if $plate2pressed>><<goto "Remove barrier">><<else>><<goto "On a Pressure Plate">><<moveto "On a Pressure Plate">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<unset $hidebody, $hidelarm, $hiderarm, $hideskull, $hidepiecrust, $chasedbyconstruct>>\ <<partfullname>> escaped into the corridor and hid behind a large rock. The construct, having lost sight of its target, stopped. It turned its skull left and right, searching. <<partfullname>> did not move and, eventually, the construct marched off towards the magical barrier. It stopped in front of it and became motionless once again. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Looks like it only protects that passage,” thought Piecrust. <<else>>\ “That was close,” thought Rosalinda. “It must be protecting what we’re looking for.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ <<partfullname>> desperately tried to escape the lumbering construct and could not focus on the barrier. <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ The membrane-like barrier was undulating, glowing with many colours. Piecrust immediately recognised a spell-wall and gasped; he had never before encountered one so strong it was actually visible. Behind the wall, he could see a large room shrouded in darkness. <<else>>\ The membrane-like barrier was undulating, glowing with many colours. Behind the barrier, there was a large room shrouded in darkness. <</if>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Touch the barrier">><<if hasVisited("Beat construct") || $lydiafightsconstruct>><<makepopuptext "" "The barrier, though transparent, was completely impenetrable.">><<else>><<set $barriertouched to true>><<goto "Chased by construct">><<run Dialog.close()>><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Secret Passage Intro") != true>><<goto "Secret Passage Intro">><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Enter through secret passage")>><<set _movewillow to "Go up the stairs [->The Hollow Willow]">><<else>><<set _movewillow to "Go up the stairs">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<partfullname>> was at the southern end of a long tunnel, where stairs were leading up<<if hasVisited("Open passage")>> towards an open passage<<else>>. The way up was blocked by a <<object "stone plate">><<if hasVisited("stoneplateFlameArrow") != true>>, overgrown with roots<</if>><</if>>. The tunnel stretched north, into the ruins. <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go north [->Low Tunnels]">><<moveto "Low Tunnels">><</link>> <<if hasVisited("Open passage")>>\ <<link _movewillow>><<if hasVisited("Enter through secret passage") != true>><<goto "Enter through secret passage">><<else>><<moveto "The Hollow Willow">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<fasttravel>>

The shovel was big and a little rusty. <<if hasVisited("Get shovel") != true>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>><<link "Take the shovel" "Get shovel">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">><<link "Take the shovel">><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda realised she would need two arms to carry the shovel."<<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<getitemfromdescription "shovel" "shovel">>\ “It may come in handy if I have to dig a hole,” thought Rosalinda. <<partfullname>> _desc <<link "Continue" "Stables">><</link>>

The tunnel was winding south, seemingly forever. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>“Where does it lead to?” wondered Piecrust. “I must be outside of the ruins, somewhere underneath Archwood.”<<else>>“Is this some secret escape route?” wondered Rosalinda.<</if>> Eventually, the corridor started climbing up. Finally, it ended with stone stairs. At the top of the stairs, the way was blocked by a large, carved stone plate. There was a metal lever next to the plate. <<link "Continue" "Secret Passage">><</link>>

<<partfullname>> climbed the stairs and went through the open passage. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>He looked around and immediately knew where he was. “It’s that willow!” he thought. “Was it planted here to hide the secret exit? In any case, it’s good to know we can leave the underground without going past Aurelia.” <<else>>\ It led into the hollow willow by the lakeside. “How interesting!” thought Rosalinda. “And it lets us enter and exit the lower ruins without going near Aurelia. <</if>>\ <<link "Continue">><<moveto "The Hollow Willow">><</link>>

Lydia was bruised and covered in dried up mud. The Captain was dozing off, sometimes shifting uneasily. <<if $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "Talk to Lydia to wake her up">><<makepopuptext "" "It seemed no amount of talking could wake the Captain up. <<partfullname>> wondered if it was a side effect of the illusion spell Aurelia had used on her.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Shake Lydia to wake her up">><<makepopuptext "" "<<partfullname>> gently shook Lydia, but she did not react. <<partfullname>> wondered if her slumber was a side effect of the illusion spell Aurelia had used on her.">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<set $lydiaactiveinchamber to true>>\ When the stream of water hit Lydia, she shook, snored loudly and opened her only eye. “Lydia!” Piecrust walked up to the captain. Seeing her in such a sorry state somehow did not make him happy at all. “The familiar! Are you with Aurelia?” asked Lydia. “I know what she’s planning. She must not achieve her goal. She’s gone mad. And… I fear I can’t stop her. I got captured like a helpless child.” Piecrust’s fur stood up. “I am not with her. She kidnapped my friends, too. I’ll make her pay for that.” Lydia gave him a wry smile. “Wait – you’re serious. Tell me, mouse – are you really –” “I am. I was not lying. It’s me, Theodore, and I’m going to stop Aurelia, with or without your help. She holds Tekla, and some more innocent people, prisoner.” “Is Osmund –” “He fell off his horse before Aurelia attacked us. Rosalinda found him. He’s in the courtyard, safe.” Lydia sighed with relief and nodded, without saying anything. She kept staring at Piecrust for a long time. Finally, she spoke: “Very well. Maybe I was wrong about you, and the skeleton. In any case, right now Aurelia is the real threat. I should have known, but I always thought if a wizard in Greywall would go rogue, it would be you. You were much more outspoken and critical of my methods.” “We can discuss that later.” “True. From what I’ve heard, Aurelia is looking for the source of mind control magic somewhere in the ruins. We must get there first and destroy it, or else, she will easily take over the city.” Lydia stood up. “She wanted to test it on me. I don’t even want to think how much harm I could cause if she controlled me. She would be able to use the Chosen however she wished.” “The knowledge Aurelia is looking for is close by,” said Piecrust. “Rosalinda and I could use some help dealing with the trials the Ancients put in place.” Lydia stared at him for a moment, then nodded. “I still don’t know what to think of you and the skeleton. At the very least, your actions agree with your words, and I can’t hope to beat Aurelia myself. Show me the way.” Piecrust knew he should not expect more of Lydia right now. Truth be told, she acted more reasonably than he had expected. “Through here.” He ran to the Chamber of Trials and the Captain followed. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ Lydia was frantically looking around the chamber for something to use as a weapon. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust had a feeling it was in vain. “We’ll have to use our brains instead,” he thought.<<else>>Rosalinda had a feeling she wouldn’t find any. “Too bad we left the sword with Osmund,” she thought.<</if>> <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<= either("Lydia glared at <<partfullname>>. “I hope you know how to stop Aurelia, Theodore,” she said. “I’ll help if I can, but I won’t be of much use without my sword.”", "“Knowing what Aurelia is planning, do you see my point now, Theodore?” asked Lydia. “You were always against me restricting the use of magic.” “I admit magic can be dangerous if used irresponsibly,” replied Piecrust. “But it can do just as much good as harm. By restricting access to knowledge, who knows how many beneficial discoveries were prevented?” Lydia frowned. “I expected you to disagree. I’m glad you at least recognise the threat Aurelia poses.”", "Lydia stared down at Piecrust. “The great wizard Theodore himself,” she said, shaking her head. “It’s absurd, but I believe it. Your manner of speaking hasn’t changed, just like your attitude. Tell me – how did you end up like this?” “An accident,” said Piecrust. He didn’t want to entertain the Captain with a telling of his woes. He imagined she would find it very satisfying to learn he was cursed by a rogue mage, and his own student at that. But Lydia surprised him. “Well, I hope it’s reversible,” she said. “We could use your expertise again when this is over.”", "Lydia was looking at Piecrust. It seemed she wanted to say something, but was struggling for words. “I apologise” she uttered after a long while. “I was unfair in judging you and the skeleton.” “Her name is Rosalinda.” “You and Rosalinda. I… may have the tendency to see things in black and white only, and with her being an undead… well, I acted hastily. After you both rescued me, I no longer believe she is evil. Although, I must say, you escaping and fighting my Chosen did not help convince me of your innocence.” “If we hadn’t fled, you would have had us executed,” reminded her Piecrust. “True. I admit I was wrong. I see the court verdict revoked, if we get out of here.”", "“Who would have thought our chase would lead us here,” said Lydia, shaking her head. “I had no idea the dungeons of Archwall survived to this day. But Aurelia knew. We should have protected the woods better, but there was so much trouble in the city…”")>> <<elseif $activepart == "construct">> Lydia looked up at Rosalinda’s skull mounted on top of the armoured colossus. “Don’t try anything funny,” she said. “I don’t think you’re working for Aurelia, but I still don’t fully trust you. Theodore does, apparently, so since he decided to give you command of this thing.” Rosalinda made the construct step back, realising being stared down at could make Lydia feel threatened. “I promise I’ll be careful,” she said. <<else>>\ <<= either( "“Who would have thought our chase would lead us here,” said Lydia, shaking her head. “I had no idea the dungeons of Archwall survived to this day. But Aurelia knew. We should have protected the woods better, but there was so much trouble in the city…”", "Lydia looked at <<partfullname>>. “I apologise for trying to… destroy you,” she said. “You may be an undead, and yet you came to help me, and saved Osmund. I’ll have to rethink some of my views.”", "“Aurelia must be stopped,” said Lydia. “I cannot take her on alone, so I hope you and Theodore have come up with some clever plan.”", "“I never expected we’d become allies,” said Lydia. “Just a few hours ago, I would have been disgusted at a mere thought of working together with an undead. But a lot has changed since then.”", "“I should have known Aurelia is dangerous” said Lydia, grinding her teeth. “But she’s always been so quiet… so proper… so outwardly supportive of the Chosen and our policies on magic. It was Theodore I was suspicious of, especially after he disappeared.”")>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "construct">>\ <<if hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>> <<link "Ask Lydia about the construct" "Lydia construct">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $lydiahassword && hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>>\ <<link "Ask Lydia to attack the construct" "Lydia starts fighting">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Tell Lydia about Figg" "Lydia Figg">><</link>> <<link "Ask Lydia about Aurelia’s plans" "Lydia plans">><</link>> <<if $lydiaonplate != true>>\ <<link "Ask Lydia to stand on a pressure plate" "Lydia plate">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Back" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <</if>>\

The Captain glanced at the armoured colossus, which turned its head and returned the stare. “I’m sure we cannot beat it with brute force,” she said. “If I had a sword, I could try to fight it, or at the very least – distract it, even though I would not have liked my chances. But without a weapon, I do not want to approach it.” <<link "Back" "Lydia questions">><</link>> <<link "End conversation" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>> <<link "Ask Lydia about the construct" "Lydia construct">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $lydiahassword && hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>>\ <<link "Ask Lydia to attack the construct" "Lydia starts fighting">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Tell Lydia about Figg" "Lydia Figg">><</link>> <<link "Ask Lydia about Aurelia’s plans" "Lydia plans">><</link>> <<if $lydiaonplate != true>>\ <<link "Ask Lydia to stand on a pressure plate" "Lydia plate">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "End conversation" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>\

<<partfullname>> told Lydia what they had learned about the Councilman and his involvement with Aurelia. The Captain listened, at first with disbelief, shaking her head, then with growing anger. “So, he was in this from the start? And lied to us to keep us away from Archwood? He’s responsible for who knows how many false reports! You say he’s here? Right now? That swine! If I get my hands on him…” She did not finish, instead clenching her fists and trying to regain composure. It was not hard to figure out the Councilman wouldn’t like the things Lydia was planning for him. “I never liked him personally, but I believed he was an honest person, interested in helping Greywall,” she uttered after a long pause. “I was impressed a man so rich cares about the mission of the Chosen and takes time to report suspicious events. I tried to be nice to him, dammit! But he’s been a disgusting criminal, nothing more, this whole time. He must have been so happy when we captured you! An undead and a magic mouse – perfect victims to pin some blame for recent trouble on. That’s why he wanted us to execute you so badly. I’m glad the truth has come out. Figg will come to regret the things he has done.” <<link "Back" "Lydia questions">><</link>> <<link "End conversation" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

“I know she’s looking for the ancient magic of Archwall. And I know enough about Archwall to know no one should wield that magic ever again. I believed all writings of the ancient wizards had been destroyed. That is not the case, so we have to do this ourselves.” <<link "Back" "Lydia questions">><</link>> <<link "End conversation" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

The ancient skull used to control the armour golem had been destroyed. Without it, the construct was just a suit of armour. It lay motionless on the ground where it had collapsed.

<<run $inventory.delete("skull")>><<set $skullonconstruct to true>>\ Rosalinda hesitated for a moment. She was afraid ancient magic would take control of her skull. “I can always remove it quickly,” she decided. She placed the skull in the opening of the armour, where the neck should be, and it attached immediately by some invisible force. Rosalinda focused her consciousness in the skull. She could feel her new body as well as the old one. It was very confusing. She tried to move the construct, but to no avail. “Did it break when it collapsed?” she wondered. “It doesn’t look damaged.” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

Rosalinda’s skull was attached to the magic suit of armour.<<if $activepart != "piecrust">> Rosalinda could feel the limbs of the construct, but they were numb and would not move, no matter how hard she tried.<</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>> <<link "Take back the skull">><<unset $skullonconstruct>><<run $inventory.push("skull")>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda removed the skull from the construct and put it back in her inventory.">><</link>><</if>>

<<set $constructcontrolled to true>>\ Piecrust cast the Activate Mechanism spell and the metal body of the construct twitched. “I can move now!” exclaimed Rosalinda’s skull. “Having two bodies is a little confusing. I’ll try to get up.” Slowly and clumsily, the construct rose from the floor. “Controlling it is not easy,” said Rosalinda. She wobbled around the room in her new body, trying to keep her balance. “It’s like I’m fighting against it. I think I can make it walk, but not much more. The arms are so stiff!” “You’re doing great,” Piecrust assured her. “Some degree of resistance was to be expected. You’re struggling against the original enchantment. I’d suggest acting quickly now. I don’t know how much power my spell had.” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">><<if $lydiaonplate>>Piecrust was standing on a pressure plate next to Captain Lydia. The plate was pressed and the runes carved onto it were glowing faintly.<<else>>Piecrust was standing on a pressure plate. The runes carved onto it were glowing faintly, but the plate was not pressed.<</if>><<else>>The armoured construct, now controlled by Rosalinda’s skull, was standing on a pressure plate in the centre of the chamber. The plate was pressed and the runes carved onto it were glowing faintly.<</if>> <<if $activepart == "construct">>\ <<link "Step off the plate">><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><<unset $plate1pressed>><<makepopuptext "" "Rosalinda made the construct move off the plate. The plate raised back up and the runes went dark.">><</link>> <<else>>\ <<link "Step off the plate">><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><<unset $plate2pressed>><<if $lydiaonplate>><<makepopuptext "" "“I think this one was activated,” said Lydia when Piecrust ran off the plate. “Now the runes are no longer glowing.”">><<else>><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust walked off the plate and the glowing runes went dark.">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\

<<set $skullav to true>><<set $skullloc to "Chamber Of Trials">><<set $piecrustloc to "Chamber Of Trials">><<unset $constructcontrolled, $skullonconstruct>><<if $activepart == "construct">><<set $activepart to "skull">><</if>>\ <<set $lydiaactiveinlibrary to true>><<unset $lydiaactiveinchamber>>\ As soon as the second pressure plate was activated, a rumbling noise shook the chamber. Then, the shimmering barrier blocking passage to the east started to disappear. “Perfect!” cried Piecrust. “We passed the trial. The mages of Archwall did not trust one another, it seems. That’s why only two magic users could open the passage together. We were lucky Rosalinda can control their own construct and cheat the plates with its magic!” “Um” said Rosalinda’s skull. “About that. Those limbs are getting stiff again, and I think I –” The armoured construct made a few shaky steps, then collapsed to the ground, breaking into pieces and sending the skull rolling on the floor. “Don’t worry about that,” said Piecrust. “We don’t need it anymore.” Lydia stepped off the pressure plate. “Let’s go. We have no time to lose.” She stepped towards the passage and entered the next chamber. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>>\ Lydia looked at the construct. “That thing is standing too close to those plates. Let’s get rid of it first.” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <<elseif $piecrustloc == "On a Pressure Plate">><<set $plate2pressed to true>><<set $lydiaonplate to true>><<set $backonplate to true>>\ <<if $activepart != "piecrust">>\ “Could you…” began Rosalinda. <</if>>\ “Step up here!” cried Piecrust. “I think the plate is detecting my magic, but we also need some weight to press it. Let’s trick it into believing we’re a typical mage!” Lydia frowned, but did as the mouse told her. As soon as she stepped onto the plate, it lowered with a clicking noise. <<if $plate1pressed>>\ <<link "Continue" "Remove barrier">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<elseif $plate1pressed>><<set $lydiaonplate to true>>\ “All right. The other plate didn’t blast Rosalinda to pieces, so I think it’s safe.” She walked onto a plate. There was a loud clicking noise and the plate lowered, but nothing else happened. “The runes on the other one are glowing,” observed Lydia. “I wonder why this one isn’t lighting up.” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>\ <<else>><<set $lydiaonplate to true>>\ The Captain eyed the plate suspiciously. “Are you sure it’s not a trap?” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “I don’t think so. I believe those plates open the passage into the heart of the ruins.” <<elseif $activepart == "body">>\ “I hope not” said Rosalinda. “But I’ll try that first, just in case.” She stepped onto a plate, but nothing happened. “I’m too light, I’m afraid.” <</if>>\ Lydia sighed. “All right, then.” She walked onto a plate. There was a loud clicking noise and the plate lowered, but nothing else happened. “I think something else may be required to activate it,” she said. “Or maybe it’s just broken.” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>\ <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Ancient Library Intro") != true>><<goto "Ancient Library Intro">><</if>>\ <<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<if hasVisited("Aurelia Library Intro")>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a cavernous room filled with carved stone bookshelves. Orange crystals embedded in wall carvings flooded the room with dim light. <<object "Piecrust and Lydia">> were near the entrance. Trapped in illusions, they lost contact with the outside world. <<if $casting || $using>><<object "Aurelia1">><<else>><<link "Aurelia" "Aurelia1talk">><</link>><</if>> was <<if hasVisited("Provoke Aurelia")>> casting spells on <<object "Rosalinda’s skull">>, which she had placed on a bookshelf.<<else>>pulling <<object "tomes and scrolls0">> from the bookshelves, trying to locate the spell she was looking for.<</if>> In the centre of the room there was a <<object "golden cage1">> mounted on a pedestal. In the far end of the room, many <<object "dusty rocks">> were scattered across the floor. <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> was in a cavernous room filled with carved stone bookshelves. Ancient <<object "tomes and scrolls">> lined the shelves. <<object "Lydia3">> was standing nearby. Orange crystals embedded in wall carvings flooded the room with dim light. In the centre of the room there was a <<object "golden cage0">> mounted on a pedestal. <<if hasVisited("Remove White Crystal") != true && $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust could sense the immense magic power emanating from the white crystal inside the cage. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<roominventory>>\ <<include "BodyParts">>\ <<skullcantmove>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Go west [->Chamber Of Trials]">><<if hasVisited("Aurelia Library Intro")>><<makepopuptext "" "“I cannot leave now!” thought Rosalinda. “What will happen to everyone if I don’t stop Aurelia?”">><<else>><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><</if>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Aurelia Confrontation")>>\ <<else>>\ <<fasttravel>> <</if>>\

They went underneath the arched passage and found themselves in a cavernous hall filled with stone bookshelves. Their eyes were immediately drawn to something else, though – a golden cage in the middle of the room. A white crystal was placed inside. It radiated with light, dimming the smaller, orange light crystals placed on the walls. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “The Ancient Library,” whispered Piecrust with awe. They reached the source of knowledge! All that time, he had half-expected the writings of Archwall wizards had been destroyed long ago, but it seemed Aurelia was right – they survived. “Let’s finish this,” said Lydia. “Can you set it on fire with a spell, Theodore?” <<else>>\ Rosalinda was overcome with unease. “This place seems full of magic power! If it survived for so long, will we be able to destroy it?” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Remove White Crystal") != true && $cage0opened != true>>\ An octahedral cage of golden filigree was placed on a marble column, with only its tip touching the stone. Inside the cage, a white crystal was suspended in place. The cage was large, so it was impossible to reach the crystal from the outside. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ The crystal amplified Piecrust’s magic. The mouse felt like he could almost reach his old level of power, from before the transformation, now that he was so close. <</if>>\ <<elseif hasVisited("Remove White Crystal") != true>>\ An octahedral cage of golden filigree, split in half. The bottom part was touching a marble column and the top part was simply floating several feet above, frozen in place. Between the two parts, a white crystal was floating in the air. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ The crystal amplified Piecrust’s magic. The mouse felt like he could almost reach his old level of power, from before the transformation, now that he was so close. <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Take the crystal">><<makepopuptext "" "“The plan is, I have to swap it with the black crystal, not just remove it” remembered Rosalinda.">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>

<<run $inventory.delete("blackcrystal")>><<unset $lydiaactiveinlibrary>>\ “Rosalinda!” Piecrust ran towards where she was lying on the ground – a tangled heap of bones. “I think I said the password wrong…” A stream of sand and gravel fell onto Rosalinda, then a large stone dropped from the ceiling near her skull. She jumped to her feet. “It’s not that,” said Piecrust, eyeing the ceiling. “It looks like ancient magic helps hold this place together. Removing the white crystal weakened all magic, so some lose parts…” Before he could finish, they heard a screaming, then a loud explosion. “Liar! Open it at once!” Aurelia’s echoed voice reached them from afar, followed by a muttering and a yell of pain. “Tekla!” Rosalinda started frantically looking around for the crystals, but she couldn’t see them anywhere among the dusty rocks that were now littering the floor. “I lost them!” she said. “Aurelia still has her magic!” Piecrust just shook his head. They had no time to search for the crystal. Their friend was in danger. They both rushed towards the cave-in, followed by Lydia. <<link "Continue" "Aurelia Confrontation">><</link>>

<<set $cage0opened to true>>\ Piecrust recited the words of the ancient spell. Immediately, the top part of the golden cage floated up. It was now hanging in the air, above the bottom part. The white crystal stayed between the two parts. “Let’s get rid of that crystal,” said Lydia, taking a step forward. <<if $skullloc == "Ancient Library" || $bodyloc == "Ancient Library" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>> “Wait!” exclaimed Rosalinda. The Captain looked at her. “I thought we were working together. Are you planning something behind my back?” “No, I just thought removing the crystal will alert Aurelia. Piecrust could detect it from far away, so she’s surely aware of its power, too. If we mess with it, she’ll know something’s going on, and she may threaten or hurt Tekla and the other prisoners to get here quickly.” “I agree with Rosalinda,” said Piecrust. <<else>>“Wait!” exclaimed Piecrust. “We should not touch the white crystal for now. Aurelia will sense it and she’ll know someone is trying to stop her. She will rush in to stop us, even if it meant blasting her way through the cave-in and bringing these chambers down on our heads.” <</if>>\ Lydia stepped back. She looked convinced, but decidedly not happy. “Then what should we do?” <<if hasVisited("recoverblackcrystal")>>\ Piecrust smiled slyly. “We recovered the opposite of this crystal from the bottom of the lake. A black octahedron which emits an aura of anti-magic. We should swap the two. I noticed this cage is bigger than the one at the bottom of the lake, so I expect the power of the black crystal will become much stronger here. It will render Aurelia harmless, and without her magic she and her ‘allies’ should be easy to deal with.” “Then do it,” said Lydia. <<elseif hasVisited("monstrouscatfishbitterherring")>>\ “We found the opposite of this crystal. A black octahedron which emits an aura of anti-magic. We should swap the two. I noticed this cage is bigger than the one at the bottom of the lake, so I expect the power of the black crystal will become much stronger here. It will render Aurelia harmless, and without her magic she and her ‘allies’ should be easy to deal with.” “Then do it,” said Lydia. “Well, there is one problem. The crystal is still at the bottom of the lake after it had been swallowed and regurgitated by a giant fish. It’s a long story,” he added, seeing Lydia’s expression. “You have to recover it, then.” <<elseif $blackcrystalapproached>>\ “We’ve seen the opposite crystal. A black octahedron which emits an aura of anti-magic. We must recover it, then swap the two. I noticed this cage is bigger than the one at the bottom of the lake, so I expect the power of the black crystal will become much stronger here. It will render Aurelia harmless, and without her magic she and her ‘allies’ should be easy to deal with.” “Then find it,” said Lydia. “I don’t like your plan, but I have nothing better to offer. Hurry up and bring that black crystal here. I’ll stay and guard the library. If Aurelia gets here before you return with the crystal… I’ll do what I can to keep Greywall safe,” she added with a grim expression. <<elseif hasVisited("Magic Amplifiers")>>\ “We should locate the black crystal described in the tome I’ve read. If we swap it for the white one and create a field of anti-magic, Aurelia will be rendered harmless.” “Then find it,” said Lydia. “I don’t like your plan, but I have nothing better to offer. Hurry up and bring that black crystal here. I’ll stay and guard the library. If Aurelia gets here before you return with the crystal… I’ll do what I can to keep Greywall safe,” she added with a grim expression. <<else>>\ “I-I’m not sure,” admitted the mouse. “I think I remember reading something about magic dampeners a long time ago, in a book on Archwall. I think they acted like the opposite of this crystal, but I don’t remember any details. If we had a magic dampener, we could place it in the cage and render Aurelia harmless. Maybe we should look for some information in the library?” Lydia shook her head in anger. “I though you had a plan!” “Rosalinda and I didn’t exactly planned to be unjustly persecuted and hunted down, or to uncover Aurelia’s scheme. Give us some more time, and let’s hope Tekla can fool Aurelia long enough.” The Captain looked away. “All right,” she muttered. “Search the library if you want. Just don’t take too long.” <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("tomesandscrollsFlameArrow")>>\ “Understood. With a magic dampener, we’ll surely disable the protective barrier around the bookshelves as well.” <<else>>\ “Understood. We’ll use a magic dampener, then we’ll destroy the books and save the prisoners without having to deal with Aurelia’s illusions, or anything else she might have up her sleeve.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust looked at the tomes of ancient magic – dozens upon dozens of them. The entire knowledge of Archwall, perhaps, gathered in one place. He sighed. The thought of staying in the library and reading, reading, reading, was tempting. More tempting than food, he realised. But he knew there was a good reason the magic of Archwall was forgotten. As he glanced at the titles written in the ancient script, his fur stood up. Most of the tomes, it seemed, were devoted to magically controlling people. That was how Archwall built its material prosperity, after all. One book, however, caught his attention. It discussed the subject of magic amplifiers. <<link "Read ‘The Principles of Mind Control’">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust looked at the book, then glanced around. He would need someone to take the tome off the shelf and open it for him… He saw Lydia, watching him, her brow furrowed, and fought off the temptation. He fully believed he would never use such magic, but it was best not to enable that possibility in the first place.">><</link>> <<link "Read ‘Magic Amplifiers and Dampeners’" "Magic Amplifiers">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<else>>\ Rosalinda had never seen so many books in one place. Old tomes, large, with gilded covers, or small and dog-eared; scrolls, in leather tubes or stacked on the shelves without them. All of the titles were in that ancient script she did not understand, so she could only imagine the kinds of spells and rituals those writings described. The dangerous magic Aurelia was after. “We’re no match for Aurelia, and Tekla can’t delay her forever,” she thought. “We must destroy the books!” <</if>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ “Would you mind taking this green tome off the shelf and opening it for me?” “Isn’t that the forbidden magic, Theodore?” replied Lydia. She’d been closely watching Piecrust since they had entered the library for the first time. “We must destroy the books, not read them.” “I concur. Most of the tomes here describe dark magic I would never touch. Magic no one should use. But this one is different. It’s titled ‘Magic Amplifiers and Dampeners’. I believe it can help us defeat Aurelia.<<if hasVisited("tomesandscrollsFlameArrow")>> And, possibly, figure out how to remove the barrier protecting the books.<</if>>” Lydia started at him for a moment, then nodded, apparently having decided to trust him. She pulled out the book he showed her, opened it and placed it on the floor. Piecrust started reading, with Lydia flipping pages for him. “And?” she asked after a while. “Did you learn something useful?” “Yes! You see, the white crystal in this room amplifies magic abilities. It was a great treasure for the Archwall mages, and it took them ages to create it. But they had another crystal too, just as powerful. It was black, and dampened all magic. Both crystals only work inside those golden cages. If we replaced the white crystal with the black one, no one could use magic in the area. Aurelia would be helpless if she came rushing in, trying to stop us!” “Good. Where is that black crystal?” <<if hasVisited("recoverblackcrystal")>>\ “It so happens Rosalinda and I have already recovered it from the bottom of the lake! Now we just have to use it. <<elseif hasVisited("monstrouscatfishbitterherring")>>\ “Well, we freed it from the belly of a monstrous fish – it’s a long story – but it sank to the bottom of the lake. We must find a way to recover it. <<elseif hasVisited("Fish Appears")>>\ “Well, we found it, but… it was swallowed by a monstrous fish which lives in a forest lake. It looks like we have to get there and recover the crystal. <<elseif hasVisited("At the Bottom of the Lake")>>\ “Rosalinda and I have already found it! It’s at the bottom of the forest lake. We have to get there and recover it. <<else>>\ “The tome says it was placed near a prison where the rulers of Archwall kept their magically talented enemies. Apparently, the prison was on the outskirts of the city, in a small valley. We have to locate that crystal! <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("tomesandscrollsFlameArrow")>>I see no other way of destroying the books, and it<<else>>It<</if>> will weaken Aurelia, so that we can escape safely and free her prisoners.” Lydia didn’t say anything, but her face darkened when the mouse mentioned escaping. It looked like she wasn’t planning to just flee and left the rogue sorceress go unpunished. <<if $skullloc == "Ancient Library" || $bodyloc == "Ancient Library" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ “Let’s do this, and quickly,” said Rosalinda. “I’m worried about Tekla, and everyone else.” <</if>>\ <<default>>\ Piecrust re-read the passage from the open book. A white crystal – the amplifier, and its counterpart – the black one, which dampened and dispelled all magic. Their best chance against Aurelia<<if hasVisited("tomesandscrollsFlameArrow")>>, and a way they could remove the protective barrier around the books in the library<</if>>. <</switch>> <<link "Read the next chapter – “Safety Precautions”" "Safety Precautions">><</link>> <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ “Let’s do this,” said Piecrust. His heart was pounding. Was he really going to destroy a trove of lost knowledge? He hesitated. <<if $skullloc == "Ancient Library" || $bodyloc == "Ancient Library" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ Rosalinda noticed and said: “There is no time to lose! If Aurelia sees through our ruse and gets here – what will happen to us? And to Greywall, and other cities?” Piecrust nodded. Archwall should never return. <<else>>\ “Do it, Theodore!” shouted Lydia. “Burn it down! This puts the whole of Greywall in danger!” Piecrust snapped out of his indecisiveness. <</if>>\ He gathered of all his power and cast the spell. Then again. And again. Roaring balls of flame shot towards the bookshelves, ready to feed on the dry parchment. Then they hit them – and disappeared. For a moment, Piecrust didn’t understand. He cast another fireball, and another – but all simply ceased to exist as soon as they neared the bookshelves. “A protection spell,” he realised. “I should have expected that! We must remove it before we can resolve this matter.” <<default>>\ Half hoping the protective barrier weakened for some reason, Piecrust cast the Flame Arrow spell, but the result was the same as before. The moment his spell was about to hit a bookshelf, it disappeared. <</switch>>\ <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

Piecrust headed down the long corridor, but after a while he was stopped by a terrible stench. The air in the lowest part of the tunnel was stale and noxious. It smelled of decomposition. Piecrust gagged. He felt dizzy. He turned away and ran back as fast as he could, before the poison in the air killed him. <<link "Continue" "Low Tunnels">><</link>>

The air in the lowest part of the tunnel was noxious. Even inside his bubble Piecrust could smell the stench of decomposition, but the spell protected him from the poison. Eventually, he reached the end of the tunnel. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "Secret Passage">><</link>>

“Interesting,” said Piecrust. “There is a warning here about manipulating the crystal. Apparently, the black crystal is ‘safe to place in the machine and safe to remove – apart from the obvious danger its main characteristic brings about’. But the white crystal is charged, and to safely remove it, one should deactivate it at the exact moment it is being taken out of the golden cage.” <<if $skullloc == "Ancient Library" || $bodyloc == "Ancient Library" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ “Is that deactivation method difficult?” asked Rosalinda. “Thankfully, no. It seems you simply must say a password of sorts. It is even given here. ‘Adris Adria’. Seems simple enough. Although the book warns consequences of mispronouncing the words may be lethal.” “Then I should be the one to do it. I can’t be killed.” <<else>>\ “Another one of the mages’ games,” said Lydia. “Do you know how to deactivate the accursed thing?” “Actually, the book gives explicit instructions on that. It seems you simply must say a password of sorts. It is even given here. ‘Adris Adria’. Seems simple enough. Although, apparently consequences of mispronouncing the words may be lethal.” “Lethal?” “Well, it’s good we have Rosalinda on our side! She can’t be killed.” Lydia nodded. “Agreed. Let the skeleton take care of that.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

<<if $cage0opened != true>>\ The golden cage was closed, making it impossible to place anything inside, or take anything out. <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && $bodyparts.includes("skull") && hasVisited("Safety Precautions") && $piecrustloc == "Ancient Library">>\ “I’m ready,” said Rosalinda. “Do you remember the password?” asked Piecrust. He trembled, whether with fear or excitement – Rosalinda could not tell. “I do. ‘Adris Adria’!” As she recited the words, she snatched the white crystal with one hand and pulled it out of the cage. In the other hand, she held the black crystal, ready to quickly place it inside the cage. But before she could do that, she was interrupted. The ground shook and a shockwave pushed her back, making her drop both crystals. <<link "Continue" "Remove White Crystal">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && $bodyparts.includes("skull") && hasVisited("Safety Precautions")>>\ “Let’s see…” thought Rosalinda. “I have two hands to swap the crystals. I have my skull to say the password. ‘Adris Adria.’ But I’d rather wait for Piecrust before I start messing with this magical contraption. If anything goes wrong, his knowledge can save us. Where could he be?” <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && hasVisited("Safety Precautions") && $bodyparts.includes("skull") != true>>\ “Let’s see…” thought Rosalinda. “I have two hands to swap the crystals. I know the password: ‘Adris Adria.’ But I cannot speak it without my skull!” <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ Rosalinda approached the open cage and hesitantly reached inside with one hand. Before she could touch the white crystal, a powerful wave of energy pushed her back. Her teeth clattered. <<if $piecrustloc == "Ancient Library">>\ “Careful!” cried out Piecrust. “Don’t try that again just yet. The crystal is charged. I think it would have killed you were you not already dead. Let me think – how can we disarm that? I bet the Archwall wizards came up with some method.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>\ <<else>>\ “I must swap the crystals, so I’m going to need both of my arms – one to remove the white crystal, the other to place the black one,” thought Rosalinda. “Better do that cautiously, too.<<if hasVisited("Safety Precautions")>> Oh, and my skull. I’ll need it to recite that secret password.<</if>>” <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>\ <</if>>\

Rosalinda and Piecrust entered the Chamber of Trials and saw the cave-in cleared and Tekla slumped on the ground in the middle of the chamber. The ogress was shaking, tears running down her cheeks. Aurelia was standing next to her. She looked furious. Figg and his bodyguard were there as well, just like Siegfried. All three were keeping their distance from the sorceress. <<if hasVisited("Lydia Figg") != true>>\ Lydia gasped when she saw the Councilman. “That snake!” she muttered. “He’s involved, too?” Piecrust hushed her down. <</if>>\ Aurelia was yelling at Tekla. “You were trying to deceive me, beast! This is just the start of your punishment, and don’t you think I’ll let the others go!” Tekla looked up and saw Rosalinda, Piecrust and Lydia. “I-I’m so sorry!” she uttered, wincing in pain. It looked like she was trapped inside one of Aurelia’s illusions and was using all of her willpower to speak. “S-she said she would kill the prisoners. I had to clear…” Rosalinda waved her hands, signalling Tekla to be quiet, but it was too late. <<link "Continue" "Aurelia Confrontation2">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Defeat bodyguard")>>\ Aurelia was readying a spell, aiming it at Siegfried. She cast frequent glances at Lydia, who stood to the side, clenching her fists in rage. The Captain wanted to charge at Aurelia, but she knew the fireball would be redirected at her the moment she made her move. <<if $activepart != "piecrust">>\ Rosalinda knew as well she couldn’t approach Aurelia without getting burned, or provoking her into attacking someone else. She decided she would jump in front of the spell, if all else fails. She could probably survive it. <</if>>\ <<elseif hasVisited("Piecrust Aurelia")>>\ Aurelia was locked in a magical battle with Piecrust. She cast fast, chaotic spells the mouse dodged or countered. It seemed like Piecrust was holding his own against Aurelia for now, so Rosalinda’s thought turned to Lydia. The captain was in grave danger. <<else>>\ Aurelia was readying a fire spell, aiming at Siegfried. She stared at him with cold fury, and yet she smiled slightly. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “She cannot use an illusion spell when we’re so close to one another,” thought Piecrust. “She would hit her allies, and maybe even herself. Good. Her other spells should be… not utterly impossible to counter.” <<else>>\ “She thinks she’s in control,” thought Rosalinda. “She wants to get rid of us all before entering the library.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Aurelia Escapes")>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Thanks for saving me!” said Siegfried. “You are a true wizard. Unlike me. I have no idea what came into me.” “You did help. You stopped Figg and distracted Aurelia long enough for me to act.” The actor smiled. “You – you really think so? Thanks! It was the least I could do to fix my errors. I wish I never met Figg or Aurelia… Well, anyway – good luck fighting the demon. I’m sure you can beat it with your spells.” <<else>>\ Siegfried was watching over Figg, even though the Concilman looked utterly defeated and was not trying to escape. “I can’t do anything about a giant demon. But I’ll make sure Figg won’t get away,” he said, sounding apologetic. “It’s the least I can do to fix my errors. I wish I never met him or Aurelia…” <</if>>\ <<elseif hasVisited("Piecrust Aurelia")>>\ Siegfried managed something unique – he, a man, was hiding behind a mouse. He watched the duel between Piecrust and Aurelia with eyes wide open. He either was too scared to escape, or truly believed in Piecrust. <<else>>\ Siegfried, the actor, was giving the show of his life. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust<<else>>Rosalinda<</if>> was sure he was utterly terrified, and yet he kept pretending he had magic powers. He pointed one hand at Aurelia and the other at Figg. “I’m not bluffing!” he said. “I studied your books, Aurelia. I know that if our spells collide, the explosion will destroy everything in this room!” The sorceress hesitated for the briefest of moments. Then she shook her head. “What a stupid lie.” “Don’t risk it, Aurelia!” begged Figg. “I can’t die like this! I’m way too rich and influential!” <</if>>\

Councilman Philemon Figg was scared out of his mind.<<if hasVisited("Get cane") != true>> He held his cane with both hands, shielding his face.<</if>> <<if $figgarrested>>\ He was sitting on the floor, close to tears. “It’s not fair!” he wailed. “You can’t put me in prison. I have my whole life before me. It was all Aurelia’s fault! She cast a spell on me!” <<elseif hasVisited("Aurelia Escapes")>><<set $figgarrested to true>>\ “She betrayed me!” he wailed. “Do something, all of you. Can’t you see I’m the victim here?” He looked at Lydia. “Captain Lydia! I-I’m so glad to see you! Go after Aurelia – she’s evil!” Lydia walked up right to him. “Enough, Figg. I hereby arrest you for conspiring against the people of Greywall.” The Councilman slumped to the ground. “I’m done for,” he muttered. “Correct. Do not try to escape. You’ll only make your situation worse.” <<elseif hasVisited("Defeat bodyguard") != true>>“This was not part of the deal!” he muttered. “Do something, Gabrielle! Protect me!” His bodyguard cast a glance at him. Lydia used the opportunity to headbutt her in the nose. Gabrielle groaned in pain and went back to trying to <<if hasVisited("daggerRust")>>choke Lydia<<else>>pierce Lydia’s throat with a dagger<</if>>. <<else>>\ “Gabrielle!” he cried. “What have they done to you? Who will protect me from these ruffians now?” <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") && hasVisited("Get cane") != true || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && hasVisited("Get cane") != true>>\ <<link "Take Figg’s cane" "Get cane">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "larm" && hasVisited("Get cane") != true || $activepart == "rarm" && hasVisited("Get cane") != true>> <<link "Take Figg’s cane">><<makepopuptext "" "The arm approached Figg and tried to reach for the cane, but the Councilman held it up high. Screaming in terror, he tried to push the arm away with an awkward kick, all the while screaming “Help! A monster!”">><</link>> <</if>>

The oggress was kneeling on the ground, rocking back and forth, once again trapped in an illusion. “It’s all my fault!” she muttered. “Miss Rosalinda and Master Piecrust, the poor prisoners, everyone… They all died because I was weak!” <<if hasVisited("Aurelia Escapes")>>\ “Demon Crusher!” yelled Lydia. “Get up and kill the beast! This is an order!” Tekla did not react, as if she hadn’t heard. <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “That’s an especially malicious illusion,” thought Piecrust with worry. “Close to reality, too, so it will be even harder to break…” <<link "Piecrust told Tekla she was just seeing another illusion">><<makepopuptext "" "For a moment, it seemed like Piecrust’s words were reaching Tekla, but then the ogress went back to crying. Piecrust hated being unable to help her, but he had to focus on stopping Aurelia first – before she killed them all, Tekla included, with her spells.">><</link>> <<else>>\ “Poor Tekla!” thought Rosalinda. “How can Aurelia be so cruel? We must stop her, no matter what!” <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull") || $activepart == "skull">>\ <<link "“It’s all a bad dream!” said Rosalinda. “I’m not any more dead than usually!”">><<makepopuptext "" "For a moment, it seemed like Tekla recognised her, but soon she started sobbing again, lost in the world of illusions. Rossalinda felt horrible about not helping her, but she knew she didn’t have the time. Others were in immediate danger.">><</link>> <</if>> <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Aurelia Escapes")>>\ Lydia was staring at the demon with disgust. “I had never thought Aurelia would stoop down so low,” she said. “We must defeat it somehow. But how? Many knights would be needed to slay such a monster!” <<elseif hasVisited("Defeat bodyguard")>>\ Lydia was standing still, eyeing Aurelia and waiting for a chance to attack. But with Aurelia concentrated, keeping a fiery spell ready, making a move was too dangerous. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Distract her with magic, or something!” she screamed at Piecrust. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Captain Lydia was lying on the ground, trying to keep Figg’s bodyguard from <<if hasVisited("daggerRust")>>choking her<<else>>stabbing her with a dagger<</if>>. She fought fiercely, but it was obvious the muscular bodyguard would eventually overpower her. <</if>>\

Figg’s bodyguard was, Tekla aside, the biggest woman <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Piecrust<<else>>Rosalinda<</if>> had ever seen. She was kneeling on top of Captain Lydia, trying to <<if hasVisited("daggerRust")>>choke her<<else>>stab her with a dagger<</if>>. Lydia held on to the attacker’s wrist, pushing her hand back. Her strength apparently surprised the bodyguard, but it was obvious Lydia would not be able to hold her off for long. “Damn Chosen,” grunted the bodyguard. “Always thinking they’re better than us. I’ll show you, you one-eyed hag!” “You… won’t… get away with this!”

“Why?” yelled Aurelia. “I’ll tell you why. For your sake, and the sake of Greywall! Don’t you see, Theodore? We wizards are treated like criminals. Rules and regulations are stifling our research. I want to end this and bring about a new era of magic, when those with power are properly recognised and revered, and they help the lesser people rise from the filth. Do you know Archwall was the most prosperous city in history? Probably not. Even those who remember the name only know about the ‘evil’ wizards. But I studied the lore. Their inventions were beyond anything we know. They…” “They were only prosperous because they treated non-magical people like slaves!” “Maybe. But was it so wrong? They were well-fed slaves, who never fell ill or…” “They were tortured and executed for opposing the wizards!” Aurelia pouted her lips. “Don’t be overly dramatic. Every city needs a functional judicial system. And it’s not like I planned to become a tyrant myself. Actually, my plan was quite benign, you know? Learn mind control and dominate several people among the Chosen and City Council…” Philemon Figg gulped loudly, staring at the sorceress with terror in his eyes. “…so that they remove the restrictions on magic research. Then, maybe, I would make one of them step down and take their place. Just think about it, Theodore! We wouldn’t have to lie or hide. No one would tell us what we can study. We would be respected, as we should! We could change Greywall!” “Don’t way ‘we’. You know I wouldn’t want anything to do with it. Just like most decent mages.” Aurelia smiled cruelly. “That’s just as well. I’m not offering that to you, little mouse. Because your meddling forced me to reveal myself far too early. I worked so hard to keep this a secret! Hired an actor, convinced Figg to fund everything! I really was going to let everyone go in the end, and they would point to Siegfried as the mastermind. But now I have no choice. Once I’ve learned the spells, I’ll mind control you. Pray I have enough power to command you all – only that can save you from death now.” “You-you’re completely mad!” said Figg. His face was as pale as a bedsheet. “It was all a lie? There… there is no gold?” “Of course there isn’t any gold, Figg. But don’t worry. I’d rather not kill you. Your vote in the Council is far too useful.” <<link "“We won’t let you do that,” said Piecrust." "Enough Talking">><</link>>

Piecrust cast the Rust spell at the dagger the bodyguard was holding. The blade corroded and flaked away. The bodyguard gasped with surprise, tossed the dagger’s handle away and reached towards Lydia’s throat, attempting to choke the Captain out instead. “Not good!” thought Piecrust. He then glanced at Aurelia. The ball of fire in the sorceress’s hand was growing bigger and bigger. He had to focus on stopping her first. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

Piecrust jumped in front of Siegfried and cast his spell just as Aurelia released hers. Though much smaller, his arrow hit the fireball in midair, making it explode. Aurelia blinked. For a brief moment, she was too surprised to do anything. Just as Siegfried, who stopped acting and, shaking with fear he had before concealed, looked at his hands. Suddenly, Aurelia’s eyes stopped on Piecrust. “You! I sense magic from you! What are you, rodent?” <<link "“It’s me, Theodore,” said the mouse. “This needs to stop, Aurelia. Give up.”" "Piecrust Aurelia">><</link>>

<<set $piecrustav to false>><<set $activepart to "body">>\ “Theodore?” The sorceress stared at him with disbelief. “I assure you, it’s me. Give up, Aurelia. You can’t win.” “I don’t believe it. It’s some lousy trick.” She cast another fireball spell. Piecrust managed to counter at the last moment. “It’s me, Theodore, Aurelia, and I’m your opponent now! If you don’t believe me – well, I’m sure you remember the white dragon blood incident? I shouldn’t have helped you cover it up. I believed it was an honest mistake on your part.” Aurelia shook her head and started to laugh. “Well, I’ll be damned! Looks like it’s really you! So, you weren’t killed, just… humiliated? I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting you to show up and try to stop me. But it’s no use. You must be very weak in this form. It won’t be difficult to beat you.” <<link "“Why are you doing this, Aurelia?” asked Piecrust." "Aurelia Reason">><</link>> <<link "“Enough talking!” screamed Piecrust." "Enough Talking">><</link>>

Aurelia grimaced and summoned a fan of ice shards. She sent them flying at Piecrust, who countered with a flurry of fiery arrows, melting the shards mid-flight. She screamed in anger and launched a fireball. Piecrust stopped it with a stream of water. <<if hasVisited("Defeat bodyguard")>>\ He looked to the side and noticed Lydia approaching the sorceress. “You’re surrounded, Aurelia!” he yelled. “Give up!” Aurelia noticed that as well. Her face turned pale. “Curse you!” She turned to attack Lydia. Piecrust used his opportunity to cast a Flame Arrow which set Aurelia’s robe on fire. “It’s over!” he said. “I figured it out. When you attacked the coach, everyone panicked at the very same moment. This means you can’t use your strongest weapon now, because your illusions are like a toxic gas: in close combat, it’s hard not to poison yourself with them too!” “Don’t be so sure you’ve won!” <<link "Continue" "Aurelia Escapes">><</link>> <<else>>\ He had to use all of his remaining strength to hold Aurelia back and wondered how long he would be able to last. “Rosalinda! Lydia!” he screamed. “Help!” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <</if>>\

Piecrust jumped in front of Siegfried and cast his spell just as Aurelia released hers. The stream of water met the fireball in midair. With a hiss, the water doused the flames and evaporated. Aurelia blinked. For a brief moment, she was too surprised to do anything. Just as Siegfried, who stopped acting and, shaking with fear he had before concealed, looked at his hands. Suddenly, Aurelia’s eyes stopped on Piecrust. “You! I sense magic from you! What are you, rodent?” <<link "“It’s me, Theodore,” said the mouse. “This needs to stop, Aurelia. Give up.”" "Piecrust Aurelia">><</link>>

“Let’s deal with Aurelia now.” Lydia walked towards the sorceress. <<if hasVisited("Piecrust Aurelia")>>\ Aurelia was too distracted fighting Piecrust to notice until the Captain was just a few steps away. She saw her and turned pale; she tried to cast a spell at Lydia, but Piecrust used the opportunity and set Aurelia’s robe on fire with a well-placed attack. “Curse you!” screamed Aurelia. “It’s over!” said Piecrust. “I figured it out. When you attacked the coach, everyone panicked at the very same moment. This means you can’t use your strongest weapon now, because your illusions are like a toxic gas: in close combat, it’s hard not to poison yourself with them too!” “Don’t be so sure you’ve won!” <<link "Continue" "Aurelia Escapes">><</link>> <<else>>\ “Stay where you are!” shouted the sorceress. “I can direct the spell wherever I want, so don’t come any closer unless you want to burn!” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <</if>>

<<set $piecrustav to true>>\ Aurelia put out her smouldering clothes with a water spell. She then reached for a large ruby she wore around her neck and tossed it to the ground. “I still have one of those blood relics left. I’m sure you remember, Theodore!” She smiled triumphantly and crushed the ruby with her foot. Fire and smoke swirled around her, and inside them, a large horned figure with four arms materialised. “Don’t let them follow me!” ordered Aurelia. The summoned demon roared. Aurelia laughed and ran into the forgotten library. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

Rosalinda sneaked up behind Figg’s bodyguard and brought the old shovel down on her head, as hard as she could. There was a horrible thud. The woman moaned and her body became limp. Lydia pushed her off and stood up, breathing heavily. “I thought I was done for.” She looked at Rosalinda and quickly nodded. <<link "Continue" "Defeat bodyguard">><</link>>

Rosalinda sneaked up behind Figg’s bodyguard and brought the cane down on her head as hard as she could, the heavy gold handle first. There was a horrible thud. The woman moaned and her body became limp. Lydia pushed her off and stood up, breathing heavily. “I thought I was done for.” She looked at Rosalinda and quickly nodded. <<link "Continue" "Defeat bodyguard">><</link>>

“You! You’re the ones that messed with the source of power?” demanded Aurelia. “A skeleton and… wait! Lydia? How did you escape?” “You’ll pay for this, Aurelia,” grunted Lydia. “You’re under arrest!<<if hasVisited("Lydia Figg")>> And you too, Figg. I know all about your part in this!<</if>>” The sorceress started to laugh. “That’s rich! Now out of my way, and maybe I’ll just mind control you instead of killing you on the spot. But first…” She raised her hand. “Get close to them!” yelled Piecrust. Rosalinda did not understand, but she obeyed. So did Lydia, who rushed straight at Aurelia<<if $lydiahassword>>, raising her sword. The sorceress flinched, but immediately composed herself. She cast a spell, instantly turning the blade of Lydia’s sword to rust. “That’s not fair,” said Piecrust. Lydia stopped and looked at the useless handle in her hand with surprise. Figg’s bodyguard used that moment to attack. <<else>>, with such fury the sorceress flinched. <<if $inventory.includes("sword")>> Rosalinda could only regret she hadn’t given the sword to the Captain. She raised the blade herself, unsure if she would know how to use it, and would find enough determination. But before she reached Aurelia, the sorceress cast a spell, instantly turning the blade into flakes of rust. Rosalinda tossed the handle away and continued charging at Aurelia alongside Lydia.<<elseif State.variables.rooms["Chamber Of Trials"].items.includes("sword")>><<run State.variables.rooms["Chamber Of Trials"].items.delete("sword")>> She then noticed the sword on the ground nearby and dove to get it, but Aurelia reacted quickly. With a single spell, she turned the blade into a lump of rust. Lydia cursed under her breath. She turned and ran at the sorceress alongside Rosalinda, with no weapon but her bare hands.<</if>> Before they could get her, they were intercepted by Figg’s bodyguard.<</if>> The giant woman hit Rosalinda with a backhand strike, sending her flying into the corner of the room, then tackled the Captain to the ground and drew a dagger. Lydia grasped her wrist and pushed back, desperately trying to keep the blade away from her throat. <<link "Continue" "Aurelia Confrontation3">><</link>>

Philemon Figg took a few steps back. “Oh, this is most unpleasant,” he muttered. “Stay right there.” The Councilman froze. “Is this a joke?” “Not in the slightest.” Siegfried blocked his way. He held his hands in a strange gesture and smiled wickedly. “You see, I may just be an actor, but I spent enough time with Aurelia to learn a spell or two. One more step and you’ll burn.” Figg shrieked in panic. He raised his staff as if to protect himself and looked at his bodyguard, but she was still struggling against Lydia. “A-Aurelia! Do something!” he yelled. “Use an illusion!” “It would hit us all, you idiot!” The sorceress, who positioned herself close to the entrance to the library, looked at Siegfried. “You know, I was still going to pay you and let you go. I have no idea why you sided with them, but it will cost you. I’m calling your bluff.” A small flame flickered on top of her fingers. Piecrust, so far unnoticed, scurried towards Siegfried. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><<set $piecrustloc to "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

A horned demon with four arms and yellow tusks jutting out of its mouth was blocking the entrance to the Ancient Library. “Mortals!” it hissed. “I will kill you all!” <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ “Aurelia must be desperate if she used that blood relic,” said Piecrust. “They aren’t easy to obtain.” “How can we destroy this beast?” asked Lydia. “Can we wake up the Demon Crusher?” She started shaking Tekla, but to no avail. <<elseif $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ Rosalinda had dealt with demons before. She knew the lesser ones weren’t especially smart. “You aren’t going to attack us, are you?” she asked. The demon looked surprised. It scratched his head with two of his arms. “You should not do that. Your master said nothing about killing, just that we should not follow her. She will get angry if you disobey her.” The demon grunted. “Hell’s flames, you’re right, skeleton! Thank you for saving me from the master’s anger.” It cleared its throat. “Mortals! And you, skeleton! You cannot pass!” <</if>>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Try to sneak past the demon">><<makepopuppass "" "Sneak fail">><</link>>\ <</if>>\

<<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<partfullname>> tried to sneak past the demon, but the creature noticed him and summoned a wall of flames. “No one gets past me!” it yelled. “Not even a mouse!” <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<partfullname>> tried to sneak past the demon, but it blocked its way. “Nothing gets past me!” it yelled, grabbing the arm and tossing it away. “Not even body parts!” <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> tried to sneak past the demon, but it noticed and stood in her way, crossing its four arms. “No one gets past me!” it yelled. “I will protect my master!” <</if>>\

<<unset $lydiaactiveinchamber>>\ Piecrust walked up to the demon and started casting the spell. He had no time for hellish beasts and their nonsense. Aurelia was in the Ancient Library. They had to get there before she could learn the mind control spell. “Your spells don’t scare me, magical rodent!” laughed the demon. “No flame, lightning or blade can hurt me, and…” Piecrust sighed and finished the incantation. "Tarznhardrun – Gorzam – Seht – Vrarn!" The demon’s eyes bulged when a net of light appeared around him. It tossed and writhed, trying to tear the net to pieces, but its efforts were in vain. With an anguished yell, the creature disappeared in a puff of white smoke. Lydia stared at Piecrust, slack-jawed. “Let’s go,” said the mouse. “Siegfried, can you stay here and watch over Tekla and Figg?” asked Rosalinda. The actor nodded. <<if $bodyparts.includes("larm") && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ Rosalinda and Piecrust hurried to the Library. Lydia ran back to the dig site and grabbed a torch from the wall, before following them. <<else>>\ <<run $bodyparts.push("larm", "rarm", "skull")>>\ <<set $skullloc to "onbody">>\ <<set $rarmloc to "onbody">>\ <<set $larmloc to "onbody">>\ Rosalinda put herself together. She wanted to have all of her body parts when confronting Aurelia. With Piecrust by her side, she hurried to the Library. Lydia ran back to the dig site and grabbed a torch from the wall, before following them. <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Aurelia Library Intro">><</link>>

They ran into the Library and found Aurelia standing in the middle of the room, smiling. “Too slow!” she said when she saw them. She made a few quick gestures. A cloud of mist enveloped Rosalinda, Piecrust and Lydia. “You figured it out, Theodore, and yet you failed to stop me,” said Aurelia triumphantly. “Now, suffer!” Rosalinda looked with terror as Piecrust and Lydia were overcome by an illusion spell. Lydia started screaming and waving her torch around, but her feet stuck to the ground; she was trying to repel unknown horrors attacking from all sides. Piecrust’s expression went blank. He hid his face in his front paws and started mumbling to himself. “I should have known, I should have known!” “Now, behave. I’ll remove the spell as soon as I’ve learned the mind control one. You’ll make exceptional subjects for my experiment,” said Aurelia and reached for a book on the shelf. Rosalinda charged at her. For a brief moment, Aurelia looked shocked, but she reacted quickly and pushed Rosalinda back with a spell. “Why aren’t you affected by my illusion?” she asked, sounding intrigued. “How can an undead mind be so resilient?” “Don’t do this!” “Oh, I think I will. I may actually start with you. Illusions are one thing, but mind control? You should be easy to dominate. You were literally made to be commanded. I’m actually quite surprised Theodore gave you free will. Although the mere fact he resorted to necromancy is no less surprising. I guess he really needed a pair of hands –” “It wasn’t he who reanimated me,” uttered Rosalinda. The spell pushed her against the wall. She dropped to the ground in pieces and was collecting herself, trying to stand up. “And I wasn’t made. I’m more than what remains of my body!” Aurelia smiled, but her eyes were cold. “Not for long.” <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><<set $activepart to "body">><<moveto "Ancient Library">><<set $piecrustav to false>><</link>>

Piecrust was frozen in place, trembling and talking to himself. “It’s all my fault! I should have known better. Now they learned the secrets of dark magic. We’re all doomed! Why did I help them?” Next to Piecrust, Lydia was waving the torch around, as is she was trying to keep attacking beasts at bay. Her face was a mask of fear and anger. <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Approach Piecrust and Lydia">><<makepopuppass "" "Can’t approach">><<run Dialog.close>><</link>> <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Provoke Aurelia")>>\ Aurelia was standing too close to Piecrust and Lydia. <<partfullname>> did not want to approach her. Keeping her focused on the skull and forgetting about the rest of Rosalinda’s body seemed like a good idea. <<else>>\ <<partfullname>> tried to approach Piecrust and Lydia, hoping somehow they may be woken up. “I need their help!” she thought. Aurelia noticed and pushed <<partfullname>> away with a blast of energy. “Do not touch my experiment subjects!” she shouted. <</if>>\

<<partfullname>> tried to approach Aurelia, but was pushed back by an invisible barrier. “She’s protecting herself with magic!” thought Rosalinda.

<<if hasVisited("Provoke Aurelia")>>\ “Give in! You can’t resist forever! There must be something you fear!” Aurelia was standing near the entrance to the room, casting illusion spells at Rosalinda’s skull from a safe distance. She seemed to grow more and more angry with each one the skull resisted. “The undead! Pathetic, nasty creatures! When I’m the ruler of Greywall, I’ll make sure necromancy remains banned!” <<link "Back" "Ancient Library">><</link>> <<else>>\ The sorceress was standing among the bookshelves, pulling one tome after another and flipping pages. “Where is it? I need the incantation, not more theory!” She tossed some of the books to the ground and with each one she seemed to get more angry. “It has to be here, it just has to be! Wait – could that be it? It’s some gibberish!” <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Approach Aurelia">><<makepopuppass "" "Can’t approach Aurelia">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "“Don’t do this!” said Rosalinda. “It’s not too late to fix everything!”" "Aurelia convince fail">><</link>> <<link "“You’ll never be able to mind-control me,” said Rosalinda." "Provoke Aurelia">><</link>> <</if>>\ <<link "Back" "Ancient Library">><</link>> <</if>>\

“Be quiet, vermin,” replied Aurelia. “Do you think you can talk me out of my plan? The real fixing will be done by me controlling the people in power. But first, I’ll mind-control you. You’re a resilient little thing, so it will be a true test of the spell.” <<link "Continue" "Aurelia talk questions">><</link>>

<<link "“Don’t do this!” said Rosalinda. “It’s not too late to fix everything!”" "Aurelia convince fail">><</link>> <<link "“You’ll never be able to mind-control me,” said Rosalinda." "Provoke Aurelia">><</link>> <<link "Back" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

“Just like your illusions, the mind control spell won’t work on me,” said Rosalinda with conviction. “And just like them, it will not be impossible to break. People’s friends and family will free them from the spell, and you can’t be everywhere to keep casting it on those you wish to control. Your plan will fail, no matter what.” Aurelia shut the book she was holding with a loud snap. Her face turned red with anger. “I’ve had enough of your impertinence!” she shouted. “I’ll show you my illusions can work even on you. I’m sure I’ll only have to twist the spell a little to remind you what screaming in pain feels like!” <<if $activepart == "skull">>\ <<set $activepart to "body">><<set $skullloc to "On a Bookshelf">><<set $skullav to true>>\ She grabbed Rosalinda’s skull and put it in an empty space on the bookshelf. <<else>>\ <<run $bodyparts.delete("skull")>><<set $skullloc to "On a Bookshelf">><<set $skullav to true>>\ She reached and pulled Rosalinda’s skull from her neck, then put it in an empty space on the bookshelf. <</if>>\ “I’ll make my illusions work, and then I’ll find the mind control spell, and use it on you as well!” She moved back near the entrance to the room and started chanting. Flames flickered and wisps of smoke danced around Rosalinda’s skull. Rosalinda started to feel dizzy, but she forced herself to focus. <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ Rosalinda’s skull was stuck on a stone bookshelf, with <<link "Aurelia" "Skull talk to Aurelia">><</link>> next to it. The sorceress was casting one spell after another at the skull, trying to make her illusions work on it. She was furious, and fully focused on the task.

<<if hasVisited("Provoke Aurelia") != true>>\ <<partfullname>> tried to approach the cage, but Aurelia spotted <<if $activepart == "body">>her<<else>>its<</if>> movement. “Don’t try anything!” She sent a lightning bolt towards <<partfullname>>, who quickly moved away from the cage. “Stay where you are, or I’ll blast you to pieces!” Aurelia glanced at <<partfullname>> threateningly for a moment, then she went back to flipping through the pages of a book. <<else>>\ The golden cage was open, and empty. “If I can place the black crystal inside, Aurelia will lose her power. All magic will stop working in this place,” thought Rosalinda. “Which could mean… No. No use in thinking about that. I must do it!” <</if>>\

<<= either("“Why do you keep resisting?” asked Aurelia. “If you keep doing that, I’ll have to destroy you!” The skull smiled. Its vision was getting blurry, but other than that, Aurelia’s illusion spells had no effect on it. “She will not destroy me! That would mean admitting failure.”", "“Maybe it will work if I add the object-animating incantation?” wondered out loud Aurelia. Pearls of sweat appeared on her brow. “Why is this happening? This should not be so hard!”", "“You’re wrong!” screamed Aurelia. “No one can break a mind-control spell!” “How do you know?” asked the skull. “Aren’t they lost magic? And are you sure you have the same power the rulers of Archwall had?” “Silence!” shrieked the sorceress.", "“If only Theodore hadn’t done… whatever he did to the magic source!” muttered Aurelia. “Once I have him under my control, I’ll force him to undo that, and my power will be greater than ever!”")>> <<link "Back" "On a Bookshelf">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Provoke Aurelia") != true>>\ <<partfullname>> moved towards the dusty rocks in the far end of the room. Aurelia noticed and sent a bolt of electricity flying in <<if $activepart == "body">>her<<else>>its<</if>> direction. “Stay where I can see you, skeleton!” she said. “Don’t think I forgot about you. If you don’t behave, I’ll destroy you. It would be a shame, though. I really want to test if Archwall magic can control the undead.” <<elseif hasVisited("select black crystal")>>\ “There’s nothing of interest left in that pile of rocks!” thought Rosalinda. <<else>>\ With Aurelia distracted, <<partfullname>> approached the pile of rocks. The fell from the ceiling when the white crystal’s power went out, and were all covered in fine dust. “It should be here somewhere,” she thought. She looked at Aurelia, who was still blasting the skull with illusion spells. “I need to hurry, before she grows bored with this.” Among the pile, <<partfullname>> noticed <<if hasVisited("select white crystal")>>an octahedral rock. It was covered in grey dust, like everything around it.<<else>>two octahedral rocks, one bigger and one smaller. They were covered in grey dust, like everything around them.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("select white crystal") != true>>\ <<link "Pick up the bigger octahedral rock" "select white crystal">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("select black crystal") != true>>\ <<link "Pick up the smaller octahedral rock" "select black crystal">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

“That’s it,” thought Rosalinda. <<if $activepart == "body">>She<<else>>Her arm<</if>> quietly approached the cage. Aurelia was trying all the illusion spells in her arsenal on the skull, and did not notice. Rosalinda took one last look at Piecrust and Lydia. She thought about others, too: Tekla, also suffering under a spell, about Osmund, Norbert and Albert still waiting outside, and about all of the captives at the dig site. “It’s up to you now,” she thought, and then she placed the black crystal inside the golden cage. The cage snap shut. The crystal pulsated with light. Rosalinda heard Aurelia scream in shock and fear, and then her consciousness, bound to her bones by a spell, slipped away. The last thing she saw was Lydia, freed from the illusion, charging at the sorceress. <<link "Continue" "Library Collapses">><</link>>\

<<getitemfromdescription "whitecrystal" "white crystal">>\ <<partfullname>> took the rock and dusted it off, revealing a gleaming white surface. <<partfullname>> _desc <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

<<getitemfromdescription "blackcrystal" "black crystal">>\ <<partfullname>> took the rock and dusted it off, revealing a dark, reflective surface. <<partfullname>> _desc <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

Piecrust was woken up from his nightmare by a rumbling noise. He looked up and saw the ceiling trembling. Then, he heard a moan and the sound of a body collapsing to the ground. He could not sense any magic around, as if he was completely cut off from power. He immediately understood. “Rosalinda!” he yelled. He ran towards a lifeless heap of bones on the floor. “No, no, no!” “We have no time, Theodore! It’s going to collapse!” Lydia was standing over Aurelia’s unconscious body. She knocked the sorceress out with a mighty punch and was now using the torch she held to set fire to the books. Without a magic barrier protecting them, they burned like dry grass. Piecrust shook his head. “We can’t leave her here! I’ll find some spell to bring her back, but we…” He blinked. What was happening to his friend? Her bones were growing smaller and smaller. No, he realised. It was he who was getting bigger. Gustav’s spell was broken! <<link "Continue" "Escape part 1">><</link>>

The rumbling noise repeated itself and rocks started falling from the ceiling in the far end of the chamber. The fire set by Lydia was spreading, lighting up the room and making shadows dance. Lydia headed towards the exit, dragging Aurelia with her. Piecrust’s eyes teared up from the smoke. He heard the Captain shout “Save yourself, you fool!” before leaving, but how could he abandon his friend? If he can wait out the transformation, he’ll be able to carry Rosalinda with him. But it was taking too long! “Faster!” he begged. He was now the size of a cat, and lost half of his fur. His tail was almost gone, too. Suddenly, a huge portion of the ceiling collapsed, burying burning bookshelves underneath. As if by miracle, Rosalinda’s skull rolled down from one of the shelves and stopped near Piecrust, undamaged. With all his might, he started pushing it towards exit. He fought to keep focused, but his senses were changing, too, and his mind was clouded. He realised he went the wrong way when a blast of intense heat scorched him, burning away what little fur was left on his back. “It’s over,” he though. <<link "Continue" "Escape part 2">><</link>>

Then he heard footsteps. “You absolute idiot of a wizard!” Lydia rushed into the library and dragged him away from the fire. “Go! Now!” She kicked him, sending him sliding across the floor, out of the cloud of smoke and towards the exit. “But Rosalinda…” was all he could utter. His voice was raspy and changed pitch at random. “I’ve got her! GO!” Piecrust, now a clumsy creature with front legs too short to run on all fours and back legs too weak to stand upright, stumbled out of the collapsing library. Lydia followed him with all of Rosalinda’s body parts in her arms. She was wheezing and cursing under her breath. “Captain! You’re back!” Tekla rushed to meet them when they entered the Chamber of Trials. She was holding Aurelia with one arm, as if she was carrying a sleeping child, had Figg’s bodyguard slung over her other shoulder and held Figg by the collar with her hand. “You have Miss Rosalinda! I’m so glad! But – who’s that?” Theodore saw Siegfried take off his theatrical robe, remaining in pants and shirt. He cast the robe over the wizard’s nearly-human body. “Thanks,” muttered Theodore. He got entangled in the giant, heavy piece of clothing and fell down. “That’s Piecrust,” explained Lydia. “His curse was broken and he’s no longer a mouse. Now, let’s go, before this whole thing collapsed on our heads.” “Don’t let me die here!” cried Figg. “You – you monsters!” <<link "Continue" "Escape part 2.5">><</link>>

At the dig site, they met the former prisoners. They seemed half-conscious, as if awoken from a long sleep. When they noticed Siegfried, they flinched in fear. “You’re free!” cried the actor. “Save yourselves – this place is going to collapse!” “I’m Captain Lydia of Light’s Chosen. Follow us. We’ll lead you to the exit.” Hearing Lydia’s authoritative tone, the captives joined the escaping group, asking no questions. As they were leaving the dig site, the recently-dug tunnel caved back in behind them. “How far is this going to spread?” asked Lydia. “Theodore?” The wizard shook his head and stumbled. Tekla somehow caught him before he fell, even though she was carrying two people. “I don’t know. We’re still under the influence of the crystal. I think the upper ruins weren’t held together with magic, so they should be safe, but…” He stumbled again and cursed. He longed for a pair of shoes. The group started climbing the long tunnel leading towards the columned hall. The collapse was still following them. The ground was shaking and rocks were falling down, burying the ancient ruins once again. Philemon Figg became paralysed with fear. He froze in place, mumbling about lies, treachery and gold, until Siegfried and one of the former prisoners grabbed him by one arm each and started dragging him along. They were halfway up the long tunnel when Theodore felt magic returning to him. <<link "Continue" "Escape part 4">><</link>>

He smiled with relief, but a moment later he realised the robe he was wearing was growing larger. He was transforming back! “No, no, no!” he cried, stopping dead in place. “Master Piecrust?” Tekla tried to nudge him forward. “What are you doing? Move!” screamed Lydia, who was running in the front, but kept turning around to make sure everyone was following. His mind was racing. The curse was not broken by the crystal, only suppressed. Which meant he was going to become a mouse again soon. Terror gripped him, but was broken by a wonderful realisation. “Rosalinda! She’s not gone!” And once that happy thought made him cast aside his fear, he remembered something: He had all of his magic knowledge. Everything he had forgotten as a mouse was now his to use, and he was out of the crystal’s sphere of influence. <<link "Continue" "Collapsing Tunnel">><<run $spells.push("Levitate", "LeadIntoGold", "Fireball", "CurePoison", "RestoreForm", "FormOfRaven", "MagicShield", "LightningBolt", "ZephyrHooves")>><<set $activepart to "piecrust">><<set $itempiecrust to "none">><<set $bodyav to false>><<set $larmav to false>><<set $rarm to false>><<set $skullav to false>><<set $piecrustav to true>><<set $piecrustdisplayname to "Theodore">><<moveto "Collapsing Tunnel">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ <<object "Theodore">> was in the shaking tunnel. He heard others shout at him, but couldn’t move. Down below, the ceiling was collapsing. Dust was streaming down on him as he tried to focus and stop his transformation. He felt his mind slowly becoming more animal again, and was scared of it.

That was it. He remembered. A spell he hardly ever used, but now it was going to save him. He took a deep breath and focused all of his power into the spell. He recited the incantation without stuttering or stumbling, with confidence that surprised him. He felt warmth spreading through his body. He stopped shrinking. His mind was no longer clouded. A moment later, he was back to his original self – this time for good. “Master Piecrust? You’re glowing!” “It’s a spell, Tekla. It’s all right. I’m all right. Let’s move!” They ran after the others. <<link "Continue" "Big collapse">><</link>>

He thought they were safe, but the collapse was still spreading. “You said the upper tunnels were stable!” said Lydia. She dropped one of Rosalinda’s arms and had to stop to pick it up. Some of the captives were barely moving forward. Siegfried and his companion were gasping for breath, dragging the limp body of Figg. They exchanged glances, as if they wondered if it was okay to leave him. Even Tekla started to slow down. “Onward! Don’t stop!” begged Theodore. It seemed he had been wrong. The upper ruins were not held together by magic, but, apparently, they were supported by the lower parts. A large rock fell from the ceiling right behind him, making him fall. He got up and stumbled forward. A smaller rock hit him, making him fall down again. Someone started screaming in panic. They were too slow, he realised. The collapse had spread too far. Even before them, in the upper tunnel, he could hear rumbling and thundering of stones falling down. “Everyone, stay close to me!” He cast a shield spell, hoping to cover everyone with it. A gleaming sphere surrounded the group right before a huge chunk of rock dropped onto Siegfried’s head. The rock hit the barrier and broke into pieces. Theodore groaned. The barrier was draining his power so quickly… And the rumbling up ahead was rapidly getting closer. Though, it sounded strange. Not like rocks, falling, more like… <<link "Continue" "Carriage escape">><</link>>

“Horses!” cried out Tekla. It seemed absurd. At least until a golden carriage, drawn by a team of four horses – Daisy, Bella and two white thoroughbreds – appeared at the top of the tunnel. “Hurry!” screamed Norbert. “I can’t drive down there! Not enough space to turn around!” It was so absurd, Theodore laughed out loud. Then, he ran towards the carriage with the rest, holding his weakening shield up as rocks kept falling on them. “Easy there, easy!” Norbert was trying to calm down his panicked team. Some smaller rocks started to drop on top of the carriage. Theodore moved close enough to cover it with his shield a moment before a larger rock followed. “Everyone, come in! Or up!” Albert flung the door open and started to pull in people. Osmund was on the roof, helping others up. Siegfried pushed Figg in and jumped onto the step at the back. He was shaking his head and talking to himself about theatrical endings. Finally Theodore, who was shielding everyone as they loaded onto the carriage, climbed onto the seat next to Norbert. “Go,” he said. Norbert shook his reins and the horses gallopped across the columned hall. Theodore’s shield failed just as one of the columns came down right behind the carriage. He had enough power for one more spell, though. He whispered the words and the horses picked up the pace, now running like the wind. A cloud of dust enveloped them, but they broke through it a moment, later, into the cold, fresh air. It was dawning when they escaped from the underground, with the entrance collapsing behind them, burying down the remains of the city once again. <<link "Continue" "Rosalinda wakes up">><<set $bodyav to true>><<set $activepart to "body">><<set $bodyparts to ["body", "skull", "larm", "rarm"]>><<set $piecrustav to false>><<set $inventory to []>><</link>>

Rosalinda started to wake up. It was like resurfacing from deep, inky waters. Or maybe more like swimming towards the surface in black molasses. Things were pushing on her from all sides. Someone put her body parts back together and placed her on a very soft, cushioned seat. She was quite sure this was not the afterlife. “Did we do it?” she asked. Next moment, she was nearly crushed in Tekla’s embrace. “Miss Rosalinda! Miss Rosalinda is okay!” The ogress started sobbing with joy. “Welcome back.” Lydia was staring at her from the opposite seat, trying to hide a smile. “Glad you pulled through!” Albert looked up from his book and nodded. “Rosalinda?” Someone opened the hatch above and was now looking at her with a wide smile on his face. It was a man she’d never seen before: middle-aged, with dark hair and a short beard. “I was right! I’m so glad! It worked, Rosalinda. Thanks to you, we defeated Aurelia and escaped the ruins.” Rosalinda started at the man. He sounded familiar. “Piecrust?” she asked. “That’s right. Well, I’m thinking of myself as Theodore now, but you can keep calling me ‘Piecrust’.” “No, I – I think ‘Theodore’ fits you much better. You look different than I expected. Although… I have no idea what I expected, really. Did – did the black crystal change you back?” “In essence, yes. You see, when…” He was interrupted when Norbert called out: “Riders! A group of riders coming our way!” <<link "Continue">><<moveto "In the Crowded Carriage">><</link>>

<<setlocation>>\ <<include "Messages">>\ <<roomname>>\ Rosalinda was riding inside the gilded carriage. Though bigger than Norbert’s old coach, it was filled with passengers almost to the point of bursting. She was squeezed between <<object "Tekla6">> and <<object "Albert3">>. On the opposite seat, <<object "Lydia2">> was guarding tied-up prisoners: <<object "Aurelia2">>, <<object "Figg1">> and <<object "Figg’s bodyguard1">>. <<object "Theodore0">>, <<object "Osmund4">> and <<object "an old man">> were looking inside the carriage through the open roof hatch. The <<object "actor who played Siegfried">>, who was riding on the back step, opened the rear window to take a look inside as well. The inside of the carriage was so crowded Rosalinda could neither move, nor detach her body parts.

Theodore was looking at Rosalinda through the roof hatch. <<link "“You look good as a human!” said Rosalinda." "Human">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "Our plan worked!" "Plan worked">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“What ‘riders’ was Norbert talking about?” asked Rosalinda." "Riders">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>

“I think so, too.” “Not that you weren’t a handsome mouse.” Theodore sighed. “To be honest, it wasn’t all bad,” he admitted. “Once I stopped feeling so sorry for myself, it turned out mice can do a lot of things, too. But I’m glad I’m back to my old body.” “You look like a proper wizard, too!” “In this ridiculous robe? Come on. I’ll have to buy some clothes as soon as possible. Or – maybe you’ll make some for me?” “Why not?” replied Rosalinda. <<link "Back" "Theodore questions only">><</link>>

<<link "“You look good as a human!” said Rosalinda." "Human">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "Our plan worked!" "Plan worked">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<link "“What ‘riders’ was Norbert talking about?” asked Rosalinda." "Riders">><</link>> <<link "Back" "In the Crowded Coach">><</link>>

“It did. Thanks to you, mostly. If not for your resistance to Aurelia’s illusions, we wouldn’t all be here now. By the way, how are you feeling? Any lasting effects of that anti-magical field exposure? For a moment there, I was afraid we had lost you.” “I’m as good as new,” replied Rosalinda. Theodore smiled. “That’s a relief! You have Captain Lydia to thank for that. She went back to the burning library to save you.” Lydia looked at them. “Only because Theodore wouldn’t leave without you. But I don’t regret doing that.” “The library – it burned?” asked Rosalinda. “Yes. Lydia decided to set it on fire, while we were still inside.” “And how else were we supposed to do that? Your spells weren’t working!” “Well, the ceiling was already beginning to collapse, so…” “You can dig through a pile of rubble, but you can’t turn ashes back into a book. Those writings had to be destroyed, so we wouldn’t have to worry about any other would-be mind controlling tyrants ever again.” Aurelia turned to stare at Lydia with contempt, but the Captain withstood her gaze. “It seems like I have slept through a lot,” said Rosalinda. “Technically, you weren’t asleep,” said Theodore, suddenly sounding excited. “I must study that in more detail.” <<link "Back" "Theodore questions only">><</link>>

“Oh, right – Riders!” Theodore’s head disappeared as he climbed back onto the front seat of the coach. Rosalinda looked through a window; she couldn’t see much, sitting between two people, but she noticed they had almost left Archwood. “A group of Light’s Chosen are coming our way!” exclaimed Norbert. He stopped the carriage, which soon was surrounded by knights on horseback. One rode to the side of the carriage. Rosalinda recognised Leon. His face suddenly turned red, which meant he remembered her as well. “Hands up! You’re all under arrest for conspiring against the city of Greywall. Anything and everything you say…” <<link "Continue" "Riders2">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("tomesandscrollsFlameArrow")>>\ “So, the books won’t burn,” said Lydia. “Figure out how to destroy them, will you?” <<if $activepart == "piecrust" && hasVisited("Magic Amplifiers")>>\ “Creating the anti-magic field with the help of the black crystal should disable the barrier,” replied Piecrust. “Then do it!” <</if>>\ <<else>>\ The Captain was staring at the rows of bookshelves. “Let’s burn them down and make sure those spells will never hurt anyone again,” she said. <</if>>\

“Enough.” Lydia opened the carriage door and jumped outside. “Rosalinda the skeleton, Tekl,a and Theodore have proven their innocence and helped stop a true conspiracy against Greywall. We’ve taken the perpetrators prisoner and are bringing them to the headquarters. We have some people with us that need urgent help – freed captives of Aurelia the sorceress and Philemon Figg.” Leon stared at her, dumbfounded. ”Conspiracy? Aurelia? C-councilman Figg? A-and where is Siegfried the warlock? The bandits we caught told us…” “We’re not lying! Siegfried is behind this!” Pest and Crag, with their hands tied behind their backs, sitting on one horse led by a mounted Chosen, appeared near Leon. “It’s him!” cried Crag, pointing at the actor at the back of the carriage. “He changed clothes to fool you, but it’s him! Get him!” “And protect us!” yelled Pest. Lydia stopped Leon before he could draw his sword. “It’s complicated, so we’ll clear everything up once we’re back at our headquarters. Escort us there. Many of us need food and a warm bath, and others need a prison cell.” “B-but the skeleton…” “Today I learned being a skeleton, in and of itself, is no evidence of guilt.” “She saved us!” shouted Osmund from the top of the carriage. “If you try to touch her, Leon, I-I’ll fight you!” Leon stared at them, his mouth wide open. “Move, knight,” urged him Lydia. “To Greywall!” He nodded and signalled to the other riders. A moment later, the coach started to move again, heading into the city, escorted by the Chosen. The knights curiously whispered among themselves and tried to get a good look at Rosalinda and the prisoners through the window. Inside, Rosalinda heard Theodore and looked up to see him smiling at her through the hatch. “It will take them some time. Maybe a lot of time,” he said. “But they will understand.” She grinned back. “Yes. I think they will.” <<link "Continue" "The End">><</link>>

Pest had simply placed his bent tin mug, filled with some unknown liquid, on the ground. <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm") || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Take the mug">><<makepopuptext "" "“I don’t think I should,” thought Rosalinda. “Pest will notice it got stolen.”">><</link>> <</if>>\

“Norbert!” called out Rosalinda. “Norbert, it’s me. Please, snap out of it!” Norbert didn’t respond.<<if $activepart == "body">> Rosalinda tried to approach him, but he pushed her aside without a word.<</if>><<if hasVisited("Recruit Piecrust")>> “Piecrust recognised my voice when he was trapped in the illusion world, but we’ve been through a lot together. Maybe Norbert will listen to someone he knows closely – like his brother?” thought Rosalinda.<</if>>

<<run $inventory.delete("largestone")>><<run $inventory.push("blackcrystal")>>\ Rosalinda moved close, then dropped the stone and quickly picked up the glinting object, revealing it to be the black crystal. Without her ballast, she started floating towards the surface, clutching the crystal in one hand. <<link "Continue">><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><</link>>\

Something was glinting at the bottom of the lake – an object partially buried in sand. <<if $activepart == "body">>\ <<link "Pick up the item" "recoverblackcrystal">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Pick up the item">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust could not pick up the item, which was bigger than him.">><</link>> <</if>>\

“Huh,” said Piecrust. He stopped well clear of Osmund and looked at him with suspicion. “What are you doing here?” Osmund explained how he had been captured, and how Rosalinda had freed him. Piecrust snorted. “Did she? I’ll have to talk with her about freeing people who put me inside a smelly hat,” he said. Osmund’s face turned red. “I’m very sorry, Mister Mouse. I shouldn’t have done that. It was all a big misunderstanding.” “That’s a delicate way to put it.<<if $piecrustasked>> Especially considering you’ve also burned down my tower!” “I’m so very sorry. An important citizen reported demonic activity in the tower and we tried to stop it and… a terrible accident happened.” “Accident?”<<else>>” “Uh… there’s something else I should tell you, I think,” said Osmund. Whatever he was trying to say, made him extremely uncomfortable.” “What now?” demanded Piecrust. “The tower of the wizard Theodore – I mean, your tower, sir – it burned down. I was there, assisting a patrol that was called by an important citizen. There were reports of demons in the tower and –” Piecrust’s fur stood up. “You burned down my tower?” “N-no – I think it was the demon’s spell – I can’t be sure – we tried to put out the fire…” <</if>>\ Piecrust sighed. He wanted to be furious, but how could he blame the hapless novice? He turned to Osmund. “For now, I’ll forget about the incident. There is a bigger threat we must defeat. Try not to get in our way. And, once it’s over, I trust you won’t do anything funny.” <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

<<partfullname>> and Albert explained to Norbert what had happened; how the coach crashed, and how the warlock put a spell on its passengers. That some of them were held prisoner in the ruins. “Then I guess we have to free them,” said Norbert grimly. “I must take care of Daisy and Bella now, but once they’ve rested a bit, I’ll help.” They all agreed to meet in the ruined courtyard. <<partfullname>> mentioned the carriage parked there, and Norbert grinned. “Well, I say we should borrow it. It would be much easier to take us back to town. All right, girls, let’s go! Ah – my whip.” Holding Daisy’s harness with one hand and Bella’s with the other, he looked at the bullwhip on the ground. “Ah well, I don’t need it now. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>Rosalinda can take it if she has a use for it<<else>>You can take it if you have a use for it.<</if>>” He marched down the forest path, leading his horses, accompanied by Albert who lit their way. Before they disappeared in the distance, <<partfullname>> could hear the brothers talk. “It’s like we’re young again!” “It is. Just don’t tell Mom, or she’s going to ground us!” <<link "Continue" "By the Standing Stones">><</link>>

Piecrust spoke with conviction and authority, and Tekla’s expression changed again. She smiled with relief. Tears started rolling down her face. “I believe you, Master Piecrust. I trust you more than I trust my eyes. And – oh, I’m so happy! But I cannot attack the guards, not even to free myself and the others. If I start a fight, someone will get hurt, there is no doubt about it. Is there no other way to help these poor people?” Piecrust thought for a moment. “You’re right,” he said. “We have to exercise caution, or we’ll make matters worse.” He was silent for a moment, weighing his options. Finally, he said: “I’ll keep it brief, but just so that you know, Rosalinda is here. Norbert and Albert are safe too, outside of the ruins.” “Oh, it’s wonderful to hear that!” “The warlock in black robes – he’s not the real threat here. He’s just a hired actor for Aurelia – the hooded woman – to hide behind. She’s a powerful wizard; her illusion spells are unequalled, and very dangerous. I can’t fight her head on, neither can you. But I believe that there is something deep down here we may use to weaken Aurelia’s power. The problem is, some very dangerous dark magic she’s after is probably in the same place. So, Rosalinda and I will have to go through the tunnel you’re digging, but Aurelia must not learn about that.” Tekla scratched her head. “I can’t say I understand it all, Master Piecrust, but it looks like the matter is serious. I’ll help if I can. I think I’ve almost cleared the tunnel. There’s just a few more big rocks to remove. I can open it for you and Miss Rosalinda, then close it again. Maybe they won’t notice.” “Good idea. But first, I’ll have to do something about the bandit guards. Rosalinda won’t be able to slip past them. Just how to convince them to leave quietly?” Tekla scratched her head. “This will be difficult,” she said. “They only listen to Siegfried.” <<link "Continue" "Dig Site">><</link>>

“I’m glad it’s all over,” said <<if $anthony>>Anthony, <</if>>the actor, shaking his head. “I have landed myself in so much hot water because I wasn’t brave enough to leave way sooner… The Captain already said I’m going to be put on trial, but I may expect acquittal, or a minimal sentence. I’m actually relieved. I want to clear this whole mess up, so that people know I wasn’t the mastermind behind everything, and don’t run when they see me.”

<<run $inventory.push("cane")>>\ Rosalinda pounced at Figg, grabbing and pulling the cane from his hands. The Councilman was too scared to offer much resistance. “An undead monster!” he said faintly. “It stole my cane! It was worth 300 pieces of gold! Somebody, do something!” He looked as if he wanted to chase after Rosalinda, but Siegfried stopped him with a threatening glance. “Don’t interfere, or I’ll show you all the magic I learned!” Cane received! <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

Theodore managed to dress himself, stood up and took a few shaky steps. The transformation of his body was complete. He looked around, surprised at how small and colourful everything seemed, and at his dulled sense of smell. Memories were coming back, too. Spells and knowledge, long forgotten, started flooding his mind. He was getting back a part of himself he had lost a long time ago. “I-I thought I’ll never –” Tekla gently pulled his arm. “Master Piecrust? We must leave!” He nodded. How could he have forgotten – they were not free from danger yet! He hurried after the others. The collapse was spreading. The entrance to the Library disappeared under rubble, and now the ceiling of the Chamber of Trials started to shake. One by one, they squeezed through the passage leading to the dig site. <<link "Continue" "Escape part 3">><</link>>

Piecrust listened carefully as Rosalinda described the prisoner, scared and shaking, talking about something only she could see. “Sounds like Aurelia’s doing,” he admitted. “She must have done it to keep the Chosen busy. Just like that – hurting a bystander means nothing to her. And the Chosen thought it was demonic possession. Of course – they stopped consulting with mages long ago, so no one could have told them what they were dealing with. Seems like things have really gotten out of hand in Greywall. The only good thing is, we now know how to break the spell. If only we survive, that woman can be helped. So, come on. Let’s not waste any more time.” <<link "Continue" $location>><</link>>

The stone plate was blocking the way up. A large metal lever was mounted on the ceiling, next to the plate. <<if hasVisited("stoneplateFlameArrow")>>The dry roots which used to cover the mechanism had been burned away.<<else>>Both the plate and the lever were overgrown with gnarled roots. The roots were dry and dead, but clung tight to the mechanism, making operating it impossible.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("stoneplateFlameArrow")>>\ <<if $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Operate the lever" "Open passage">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body">>\ <<link "Operate the lever">><<makepopuptext "" "Without arms, Rosalinda could not operate the lever.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Operate the lever">><<makepopuptext "" "A single arm on its own was not strong enough to move the lever.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<link "Operate the lever">><<makepopuptext "" "Piecrust was too weak and small to move the lever.">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

Rosalinda pulled the lever. Immediately, there was a low, grating noise. Dust sprinkled down from the plate, which slid to the side, opening a passage. Fresh breeze streamed down the tunnel, clearing the air. <<link "Continue" "Secret Passage">><</link>>

<<switch visited()>>\ <<case 1>>\ Piecrust cast the spell at the roots. The dry plant matter burned quickly, making the air in the tunnel even more noxious. Soon, the roots were reduced to ashes. “Now Rosalinda should be able to move the lever,” thought Piecrust. <<default>>\ Piecrust had already burned away the tangled roots which had blocked the plate and the lever. <</switch>> <<link "Continue" "Secret Passage">><</link>>

<<if hasVisited("Guards Leave")>>\ With the guards gone, Piecrust could easily squeeze under the door. <<else>>\ Piecrust looked at the large door. He reckoned he could just about squeeze underneath it, but it would be very risky with the two guards staring down the empty, well-lit corridor. <</if>>\

"“Hey, it’s me! Pest!” shouted Rosalinda from the shadows. “I’m here with Crag. We’ll take over. Go eat something.” The guards jumped to their feet; for a brief moment, they looked relieved, but the soon started glancing around with suspicion, trying to catch a glimpse of Rosalinda through the thick smoke. “If that’s you, show yourselves!” one of them demanded. <<if $activepart == "skull">>The skull, naturally, could not oblige. “There’s no one there, and the voice didn’t sound like Pest,” one of the bandits said. “Damn it! Is the forest playing tricks on us? Or… could it be Master Siegfried? Do you think we somehow made him angry?” <<else>>Rosalinda stepped forward, hoping the smoke will obscure her figure enough, but the guards weren’t fooled.“There’s only one person, and they look… wrong” one of them said. “And they don’t even sound like Pest. Damn it! Is the forest playing tricks on us? Or… could it be Master Siegfried? Do you think we somehow made him angry?” Rosalinda quickly fell back under the shadow of the trees, worried the spooked bandits would attack her. <</if>>

Rosalinda pushed the gate and it slowly opened. Rosalinda saw a dimly lit hall and heard echoed voices. Someone was aruging about something further down the hall. She froze for a moment, but it seemed no one saw or heard her opening the gate. She pushed it fully open and blocked it in that position with a stone. “In case we need to escape quickly,” she thought. <<link "Continue" "The Edge of the Pit">><</link>>

The double wooden gate was blocking the passage to the north. It had no lock or handle on the side <<partfullname>> was looking at. <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ Piecrust checked if he could squeeze under the gate, but the gap below was blocked with dirt, dry leaves and small stones. “Opening it must require a lot of strength with all the debris,” thought the mouse. <<else>>\ It looked like it could be opened with a solid push. <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<link "Push the gate open">><<makepopuptext "" "The arm on its own lacked the strength required to open the gate.">><</link>> <<elseif $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("larm") || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("rarm")>>\ <<link "Push the gate open" "Open tall gate">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>>\ <<elseif $activepart == "body">>\ <<link "Push the gate open">><<makepopuptext "" "Without any arms, Rosalinda could not push the gate open.">><</link>> <</if>>\

<<getitemfromdescription "sword" "sword">>\ “Can you give me that sword?” asked Rosalinda. “Captain Lydia is desperately looking for one.” Osmund nodded eagerly. “Of course! I think this is the Captain’s sword anyway. Here.” He offered the weapon to Rosalinda. <<partfullname>> _desc “If you give it to Captain, I’m sure she’ll be able to help you out againt any enemies,” said Osmund. “She’s a formidable warrior! I’m glad you found her, and even more glad she now trusts you and doesn’t want to harm you any more.” “I’m not sure she trusts me yet, but she no longer believes I’m evil,” replied Rosalinda. “And it looks like we need each other’s help to stop the real villain. Thanks for the sword. Stay here and be cautious. We’ll be back soon, I hope.” <<link "Continue" "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>

<<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ Giving the sword to Lydia was the right idea, but Rosalinda did not want to lead the construct close to the yet unarmed Captain. “I must shake it off first!” she thought. <<else>>\ <<set $lydiahassword to true>><<run $inventory.delete("sword")>>\ “Will this do for a weapon?” asked Rosalinda. “You found my sword!” Lydia took the weapon and smiled. “Well done. I’ll put it to a good use.” <<if hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>><<set $lydiafightsconstruct to true>>\ She raised the blade and stepped towards the construct. “I’m not sure if I can beat it, but I’ll distract it. You do the rest.” The armoured giant slowly turned towards the Captain, who greeted it with a battle cry. She attacked with lightning fast strikes, apparently surprising the opponent. Sparks flew when metal clashed with metal. It didn’t seem like the attacks were harming the construct, but they did keep it occupied. It tried to crush Lydia with its fists, but the Captain expertly blocked and dodged. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

Lydia was fighting the construct. She was forced to act mostly defensively, to protect herself against the sutomaton’s brute strength. Whenever she was able to attack, she did so with precision, but her sword did little to the construct’s metal body. “The skull must be its weak point, but it won’t let me reach it,” she uttered. She was breathing heavily. <<if $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "skull" || $activepart == "body" && $bodyparts.includes("skull")>>\ <<link "Tell Lydia to stop fighting the construct" "Lydia stops fighting">><<run Dialog.close()>><</link>> <</if>>\

<<unset $lydiafightsconstruct>>\ “Very well,” uttered Lydia. “It’s not like I’m doing much. But I do hope you have a better plan for dealing with this thing.” She ducked to avoid another attack, then ran behind the pile of rubble. As soon as the construct lost the sight of its opponent, it also lost all interest in her. It slowly returned to its place in fromt of the barrier and became still again. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<set $lydiafightsconstruct to true>>\ “All right,” replied Lydia with grim determination. “But I hope it’s part of some plan. The best I can do is keep the damn thing distracted. Its body is impenetrable, and I can’t reach the skull while it keeps swinging its arms.” She drew her sword and charged at the construct, engaging it in combat. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<if $lydiafightsconstruct>>\ Rosalinda decided she might have a chance now that the construct was distracted by Lydia. She approached the automaton from the back, raised the shovel and brought it down on the flaming skull as hard as she could. <<link "Continue" "Beat construct">><<unset $lydiafightsconstruct>><<set $hitwithshovel to true>><</link>> <<else>>\ Rosalinda did not want to provoke the construct. <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>> <</if>>

<<if $chasedbyconstruct>>\ “Lydia wouldn’t want the shovel for a weapon,” thought Rosalinda. “Besides, I shouldn’t lead the construct towards her. I can probably survive getting hit by it once. A living person wouldn’t be so lucky.” <<else>>\ “You wanted a weapon. Will this do?” asked Rosalinda. Lydia looked at the shovel with contempt. “It’s a tool, not a weapon. I can’t fight with this. You don’t have a sword to give me instead, do you?” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

“My sword! You found it!” Lydia rushed forward and picked up the sword from the ground. <<if hasVisited("Beat construct") != true>><<set $lydiafightsconstruct to true>>\ She raised the blade and stepped towards the construct. “I’m not sure if I can beat it, but I’ll distract it. You do the rest.” The armoured giant <<if $chasedbyconstruct>><<unset $chasedbyconstruct>>gave up its chase and <</if>>slowly turned towards the Captain, who greeted it with a battle cry. She attacked with lightning fast strikes, apparently surprising the opponent. Sparks flew when metal clashed with metal. It didn’t seem like the attacks were harming the construct, but they did keep it occupied. It tried to crush Lydia with its fists, but the Captain expertly blocked and dodged. <<else>>\ “It’s a shame you’ve already beaten the construct. With a weapon, I could have helped. But it may still prove useful.” <</if>>\ <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

“My sword! You found it!” Lydia rushed forward and picked up the sword from the ground. “It’s a shame you’ve already beaten the construct. With a weapon, I could have helped. But it may still prove useful.” <<link "Continue" "Ancient Library">><</link>>

<<set $lydiahassword to true>><<run $inventory.delete("sword")>>\ “Will this do for a weapon?” asked Rosalinda. “You found my sword!” Lydia took the weapon and smiled. “It’s a shame I didn’t have it earlier. I could have helped with the construct. But a weapon may still prove useful.” <<link "Continue" "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>

<<if $fasttraveltooltip != true>>\ This menu lets you quickly travel to previously visited locations in Archwood. Note: Some locations are accessible only to certain characters (or body parts). <<set $fasttraveltooltip to true>><</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Enter through secret passage") != true && $location == "Old Well" || hasVisited("Enter through secret passage") != true && $location == "Low Tunnels" || hasVisited("Enter through secret passage") != true && $location == "Chamber Of Trials" || hasVisited("Enter through secret passage") != true && $location == "Secret Passage" || hasVisited("Enter through secret passage") != true && $location == "Ancient Library">>\ <<else>>\ <<if hasVisited("Overgrown Ravine") && $location != "Overgrown Ravine">>\ <<link "Overgrown Ravine">><<moveto "Overgrown Ravine">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Small Clearing") && $location != "Small Clearing">>\ <<link "Small Clearing">><<moveto "Small Clearing">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if hasVisited("Inside the Tree Stump") && $location != "Inside the Tree Stump">>\ <<link "Inside the Tree Stump">><<moveto "Inside the Tree Stump">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Near Crashed Coach") && $location != "Near Crashed Coach">>\ <<link "Near Crashed Coach">><<moveto "Near Crashed Coach">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("By the Lakeside") && $location != "By the Lakeside">>\ <<link "By the Lakeside">><<moveto "By the Lakeside">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("The Hollow Willow") && $location != "The Hollow Willow">>\ <<link "The Hollow Willow">><<moveto "The Hollow Willow">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("On the Forest Road") && $location != "On the Forest Road">>\ <<link "On the Forest Road">><<moveto "On the Forest Road">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("By the Standing Stones") && $location != "By the Standing Stones">>\ <<link "By the Standing Stones">><<moveto "By the Standing Stones">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Ruined Courtyard") && $location != "Ruined Courtyard">>\ <<link "Ruined Courtyard">><<moveto "Ruined Courtyard">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards") || $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if hasVisited("Stables") && $location != "Stables">>\ <<link "Stables">><<moveto "Stables">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("The Room in The Elephant") && $location != "The Room in The Elephant">>\ <<link "The Room in The Elephant">><<moveto "The Room in The Elephant">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards") || $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if hasVisited("The Edge of the Pit") && $location != "The Edge of the Pit">>\ <<link "The Edge of the Pit">><<moveto "The Edge of the Pit">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards") || $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if hasVisited("Lit Corridor") && $location != "Lit Corridor">>\ <<link "Lit Corridor">><<moveto "Lit Corridor">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Deal with Guards") || $activepart == "piecrust" || $activepart == "larm" || $activepart == "rarm">>\ <<if hasVisited("Storage Room") && $location != "Storage Room">>\ <<link "Storage Room">><<moveto "Storage Room">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Columned Hall") && $location != "Columned Hall">>\ <<link "Columned Hall">><<moveto "Columned Hall">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $drawbridgelowered || $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("Descending Tunnel") && $location != "Descending Tunnel">>\ <<link "Descending Tunnel">><<moveto "Descending Tunnel">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("stonedoorpentagonalgem") || $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("Dig Site") && $location != "Dig Site">>\ <<link "Dig Site">><<moveto "Dig Site">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("stonedoorpentagonalgem") || $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("Side Room") && $location != "Side Room">>\ <<link "Side Room">><<moveto "Side Room">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart == "piecrust">>\ <<if hasVisited("Aurelia’s Study") && $location != "Aurelia’s Study">>\ <<link "Aurelia’s Study">><<moveto "Aurelia’s Study">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Chamber Of Trials") && $location != "Chamber Of Trials">>\ <<link "Chamber Of Trials">><<moveto "Chamber Of Trials">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Low Tunnels") && $location != "Low Tunnels">>\ <<link "Low Tunnels">><<moveto "Low Tunnels">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Old Well") && $location != "Old Well">>\ <<link "Old Well">><<moveto "Old Well">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $activepart != "piecrust" || hasVisited("Open passage")>>\ <<if hasVisited("Secret Passage") && $location != "Secret Passage">>\ <<link "Secret Passage">><<moveto "Secret Passage">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Ancient Library") && $location != "Ancient Library">>\ <<link "Ancient Library">><<moveto "Ancient Library">><</link>>\ <</if>>\ <<link "Back" $return>><</link>>\

<<widget "fasttravel">>\ <<if $activepart != "skull">>\ <<link "Travel to…" "Fast Travel">><</link>> <</if>>\ <</widget>>\