_______ _______ ______ _______
( ____ \|\ /|( ___ )( __ \ ( ___ )|\ /|
| ( \/| ) ( || ( ) || ( \ )| ( ) || ) ( |
| (_____ | (___) || (___) || | ) || | | || | _ | |
(_____ )| ___ || ___ || | | || | | || |( )| |
) || ( ) || ( ) || | ) || | | || || || |
/\____) || ) ( || ) ( || (__/ )| (___) || () () |
\_______)|/ \||/ \|(______/ (_______)(_______)
_______ _______ ______ _ _______ _______ _______
( )( ___ )( __ \ ( ( /|( ____ \( ____ \( ____ \
| () () || ( ) || ( \ )| \ ( || ( \/| ( \/| ( \/
| || || || (___) || | ) || \ | || (__ | (_____ | (_____
| |(_)| || ___ || | | || (\ \) || __) (_____ )(_____ )
| | | || ( ) || | ) || | \ || ( ) | ) |
| ) ( || ) ( || (__/ )| ) \ || (____/\/\____) |/\____) |
|/ \||/ \|(______/ |/ )_)(_______/\_______)\_______)
Developer: Craveyard
Publisher: Crave
Released: 1999
Playstation
===============================================================================
SHADOW MADNESS GAME SCRIPT
Transcribed from the game and typed by threetimes,
April 14th 2008
Version: 1.01
===============================================================================
----------------
IMPORTANT NOTICE
----------------
The script for the game is copyrighted to Craveyard, the developers of the
Shadow Madness. All I have done is to transcribe their work directly from the
game.
===============================================================================
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
===============================================================================
A. Why the script?
B. Organisation
1. Search Code
2. Chapter Headings
3. Spelling
4. Characters and Abbreviations
5. Notes
C. The Script.
D. Draft Details
E. Credits and Acknowledgements
F. Legal Stuff and Contact
===============================================================================
A. W H Y T H E S C R I P T?
===============================================================================
I have a thing about Shadow Madness. Granted it has its problems as a game:
poor battle system, clumsy graphics, annoying disc changes, and some very
awkward dungeons. Not to mention the easily defeated enemies, and endless
walking back and forth among locations. However I forgive Shadow Madness its
faults and salute it as a noble, but failed, attempt to create a Japanese style
RPG by an American team.
There are two reasons why I am so generous to the game. First the music is
fantastic, although unfortunately no-one has been able to find an OST despite
looking for a long time, and sadly I can do nothing about that. Secondly, and
this IS something I can do something about, the script is very good, and the
few of us who still like the game often want to quote bits of it at each other.
So I decided that, since I was going to do a walkthrough for the game, I might
as well do the script at the same time. There is an awful lot of it, and it is
going to take me a very long time to transcribe it all, but I decided that it
was worth the effort. I hope there are still some people who agree with me.
===============================================================================
B. O R G A N I S A T I O N
===============================================================================
--------------
1. Search Code
--------------
The search code is the same one as I have used in the walkthrough so you could,
if you wanted to, cross reference the two. Why anyone should want to do that I
have no idea, but it saved me the effort to use the same code.
Use the search codes to find whatever section you want. To do this press
Control + F and then type in the code in the box that appears. Then press
Enter. If you are using a Mac it is either Apple command button at the side of
the space bar, + F, then type in the code in the "Find" box and select "Next".
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Chapter Headings Search Code
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Introduction 0010
2. Khalestra 0020
i. Port Lochane 0021
ii. Mountain Pass 0022
iii. Enclaan 0023
iv. Forestgrove 0024
v. Barleygrove 0025
vi. Red Tom's Cave 0026
vii. Rockra 0027
viii. Catman 0028
3. Karillon 0030
i. The Gates 0031
ii. Oldtowne 0032
iii. Middletowne 0033
iv. Hightowne 0034
v. Gogarin Keep 0035
4. Crescent Valley 0040
i Magic Academy 0041
ii. Anglerville 0042
iii. Jynx 0043
iv. Revisit Karillon 0044
5. Magic Academy 0050
i. Inside the Academy 0051
ii. Old Gulbrath 0052
iii. Gubrath Woods 0053
iv. The Village 0054
v. Gamathel's Tower 0055
vi. The Division of Labour 0056
(Magic Academy Third Visit)
vii. Return Visits 0057
6. Bene-Brokul 0060
i. The Journey 0061
ii The Village 0062
7. Uhndrashi Plateaus 0070
i. First Visit 0071
8. Siltheria 0080
i. Nomad Camp 0081
ii. Ziggurat 0082
iii. Hall of Spheres 0083
iv. The Magic Mouth 0084
v. Hall of Choices 0085
vi. Orb Vault 0086
vii. Leaving the Ziggurat 0087
9. Uhndrashi Plateaus 0090
i. Second Visit 0091
ii. Artelier 0092
10. Dobietown 0100
11. New Gulbrath 0110
i. New Gubrath 0111
ii. Gubrath Bog Maze 0112
12. Karillon 0120
i. Second Visit 0121
13. Eyre 0130
i. First Visit 0131
ii. The Sub 0132
14. Wyldern 0140
i. Daiglo's Dock 0141
ii. Daiglo's Dwelling 0142
15. Pays'Hom 0150
i. Tanglewoods 0151
ii. Pays'Hom Village 0152
16. Hexite Mines 0160
17. Pays'Hom 0170
i. After the Hexite Mines 0171
18. Michi Village 0180
i. The Village 0181
19. The Garrison 0190
i Finding Pogras 0191
11. Gadgeteer Madness 0192
20 Magic Academy 2 0200
i. The Division of Labour B. 0201
21 Return to Wyldern 0210
i. The Garrison 0211
ii. Michi Village 0212
22. Banori Caverns 0220
i. Inside the Caverns 0221
ii. The Catapult 0222
iii Banori Tanglgewoods 0223
23. The Serene Gardens 0230
24. Keerg's Camp 0240
i. Inside the Camp 0241
ii. Return to Arkose 0242
25. Karillon and Eyre Again! 0250
i. The Journey 0251
ii. Revisit Karillon 0252
iii. Revisit Eyre 0253
26. Dantyr 0260
i. Chiore 0261
ii. Voltaire Island 0262
iii. Petit Island 0263
27. Dantyr by Ship 0270
i. Treeside (night) 0271
ii. Verne Island 0272
iii. Gadget Madness 0273
iv. Gadget Madness Part Three 0274
(Pandora's Cauldron)
v. Revisits 0275
28. Metabolas Island 0280
i. Up the Mountain 0281
ii. The Lava Pathways 0282
iii. The Caves 0283
iv. Metaboline Castle 0284
v. The Return Journey 0285
vi. Treeside (day) 0286
29. Magic Academy 3 0290
i. The Division of Labour C. 0291
30. Karillon and Dantyr 0300
i. Return to Karillon 0301
ii. Return to Dantyr 0302
31. Bene-Brokul and Siltheria 0310
i. Return to Bene Brokul 0311
ii. Return to Siltheria 0312
32. South Cartoff Island 0320
33. Wyldern Again 0330
i. Emperor's Road 0331
ii. The Council Building 0332
iii. Cyl Og Sul (ER) 0333
iv. The Merchant's Path 0334
v. The Follower's of Nagruk 0335
vi. Cyl Og Sul (MP) 0336
34. Tyr Og Nor 0340
i. Jirina's Route 0341
Tyr Og Nor 1
Tyr Og Nor 2
Tyr Og Nor 2
ii. Stinger's Route 0342
Tyr Og Nor 4
Tyr Og Nor 5
Tyr Og Nor 6
35. End Game 0350
i. The Summit 0351
ii. The Battle 0352
iii. The End 0353
-----------
3. Spelling
-----------
Although the game is American, my copy is for PAL, and it appears that some of
the text uses English spelling. I don't know if this is just in the PAL game,
but if it is, this gives me another reason to appreciate Shadow Madness as
changing the text to suit the region is uncommon. I am British, and I cannot
bring myself to write words which are spelled incorrectly. Given that
everything else I write makes use of English spelling, I decided to be
consistent, so even when the game uses American English, I have stuck to the
English I know best. Please forgive this minor idiosyncrasy.
-------------------------------
4. Characters and Abbreviations
-------------------------------
1. Stinger
2. Windleaf
3. Harv-5
4. Xero Von Moon
5. Clemett
6. Jirina
---- = actions of characters and events.
o---o = on screen text that is not speech.
--------
5. Notes
--------
- Most people will have more than one thing to say, and repeating the action X
will prompt more talk.
- I start a new line of text to indicate a new box of on-screen text.
===============================================================================
C. T H E S C R I P T
===============================================================================
===============================================================================
1. INTRODUCTION 0010
===============================================================================
Setting: A bar, someone is playing darts and a young man sits at the bar
talking to the barman.
Duffy: Hey, these cats are pretty hip tonight! You gonna take a turn on
the stage?
Young Man: Nah...I'm not much for poetry...Especially bad poetry...
If it's okay, I'd just like to hang out for a while...
Duffy: Yeah, sure...no sweat...
Say, weren't you with that group that came in from the Homelands?
Young Man: Yes...
Duffy: Tough luck...Not much left there, from what I hear.
Young Man: Ashes...melted stuff...that's about it...Everyone's dead...
Duffy: Keerg's blood! Why don't you go crash somewhere? You must be
exhausted!
Young Man: Can't sleep...
Duffy: You look like death eating a cracker...
Young Man: ...!
Duffy: Hey, no insult intended! I'm just tryin' to help...
Young Man: Help someone else...I just want to be left alone...I just want to
understand.
Duffy: Understand...what?
Young Man: Everything...this whole day! One minute life was normal...and
then...
Duffy: Go on...
Young Man: ...and then everything went haywire...I shouldn't be here...in
Karillon...talking to you...!
Duffy: So...when did the dung hit the fan?
Young Man: This morning...It all started this morning...
I'd spent the night in the forest after an argument with my step
dad...
...we'd almost killed each other the night before...been like that
for awhile...
Anyway, I had made up my mind to become a crewman on a Siltherian
frigate...
I was on my way back to say goodbye to mum when...
MOVIE: Shows the city and then the Young Man watching as his home town is
destroyed by a bright red explosion.
===============================================================================
2. KHALESTRA 0020
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Port Lochane 0021
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MOVIE: The Young Man is in his destroyed town and finds a sword and then has
to fight.
Setting: In the destroyed town after an initial battle.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE: If you lose this or any battle, the Game Over Screen appears.
o-------------------------------------------------------------------o
| You have died. |
| |
| The fate of Arkose and Wyldern will have to rest in the hands of |
| some other hero. You obviously couldn't do the job. |
| |
| Load a Saved Game |
| Start a New Game |
| Quit |
o-------------------------------------------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Young Man: HELP! CAN ANYONE HEAR ME...?
{This can't be happening...)
(What WAS that thing, anyway? Right out of a nightmare. If I
hadn't found that sword...)
(Should never have taken off last night without telling mum...Maybe
she made it out with Aunt Terre and Uncle Rhon...)
(This makes no sense...crazy...That hit to the head must've jumbled
my brains...)
(Gotta check the rest of the town. There MUST be some
survivors...Please, please let me find someone!)
Voice: Over here! Help! Help!
---- He runs across to a woman.
Young Man: Mrs. Khareh! Are you all right?
Did you see what happened?
Mrs.
Khareh: Y...you're Ariane's boy, aren't you?
Young Man: Yes, ma'am. I'm...
Quick! What's my name?
---- Option to name *Stinger*.
Stinger: I'm Stinger...
Mrs.
Khareh: Bbbb...burning...M...my house...My letters...my pictures...my
kitchen...
MY FAMILY! AAAAAAAH!
Stinger: (She's in shock or something...I gotta keep going...)
I'll be back soon, Mrs. Khareh. You stay put, okay? I'll bring
some help!
---- A new figure runs up to Stinger.
Dock
Worker: Hey, kid!
I couldn't help watching you fight that...thing.
You're gonna end up bleeding before you even know it!
Do you want some tips for staying alive in battle?
Yes!
No, I'm doing all right!
---- Select No and he answers:
Dock W. Your choice of course. Anyway, I'm out of here. This place
is ...cursed or something!
Stinger: Yes.
Dock W.: I used to be a gunner in the armada.
My commander taught me a lot. I still remember it like it was
yesterday...
-----------------
SCENE AT DOCKSIDE
-----------------
Commander: Fighting is a filthy habit...but sometimes necessary.
First, know that you can avoid battle by pressing and holding the L2
and R2 buttons at the sound of a monster' voice.
If you time it correctly, you will hit the ground, and dodge the
attack.
Resume your quest by releasing these buttons and continue on your
way!
Would you like to learn more about the art of war?
Yes.
No.
Stinger: Yes.
Commander: Then remember this! You must navigate through the battle menus
using the L1,L2,R1 AND R2 BUTTONS.
You can flee from most battles, by selecting "Flee!" on the L2
button menu.
Should you want to fight you must first "Engage" an enemy!
Once you've Engaged an enemy, or an enemy has Engaged you, your
battle menu appears.
Normal or Aggressive attacks are your best bets if you are not a
magic user.
Tap the action button quickly just before striking your enemy to
double the damage. Timing is everything!
Or you can select Items from the R1 button menu to rejuvenate
yourself.
If you meet and travel with a magic user, you can view his or her
magic menu by pressing the R2 button.
Remember these lessons well. You must survive.
----------------------------
END OF SCENE AT THE DOCKSIDE
----------------------------
Dock W.: Well, I'm outta here. You should get a move on, too. Nothin' left
to see anyway...What a shame...
---- Dock Worker leaves.
---- Speak to Mrs. Khareh again.
Mrs. K.: I have to fold my laundry...Please leave me alone...
---- Down the screen to the next area.
Sailor: *mumble*...vicious she is...lady luck...bad attitude...*mumble*...
all my mates beneath the waves...
---- Speak to him again.
Sailor Should have been me down there...*mumble*...eternal peace...never
sleep now...*mumble*
---- Approach the chest.
**** This is a level 1 lock. Do you want instructions?
Yes
No
o-------------------------------------------o
| You will see 4 segments of lockpick moves.|
| When each sequence stops, you must repeat |
| it. The higher the lock level, the longer|
| the sequences will be. |
| |
| The Directional Buttons move the left pick|
| and the T,S,O,X buttons move the right |
| pick. |
o-------------------------------------------o
---- Go left from the first area to the find HOLE IN THE GROUND
Stinger: (Shouldn't have left town last night...Maybe I could have done
something...Could have helped somehow...)
(So confusing...Can't tell where I am...Can't even recognise my own
house!)
Hey...! Hey mister...!
Who are you?
What are you doing?
---- Speak to the man.
Survivor: I was blowed right offa my ship into the pit, here...
I reckon the rest of the crew went down with the boat...
Poor saps...they ain't ever seen anythin' this beautiful...
...I think it's alive! (turns to look at the huge red hole)
MOVIE: of the alive and roaring red centre of the hole.
---- Speak to the man again
Survivor: Yep, it sure is beautiful...Lotsa stuff alive in there...Life is
precious...so they say...
---- Go right and down to the next screen. Approach the two towers and a
person appears running across the area.
Stinger: Hey you! Stop! Come back here!
---- Stinger moves to follow.
Stinger: Whoever you are, I know you're here!
Come out now, or you're dead meat...!
---- Girl approaches him.
Girl: Who do you think you are, threatening someone like that?
You don't even look like you could back it up!
Stinger: I live in this town! At least ...I used to...And yes I can...if I
have to...
Girl: Someone sure wanted this town to disappear from the map...
Do you...know what happened?
Stinger: Not really...I came back just in time to see the place get
demolished...
It happened almost instantly...
Girl: I came from Enclaan...it looks even worse there...
I was hoping I'd find some help, but...
Stinger: Help seems to be in short supply...
What's your name anyway?
Quick! What is my name? (Accept)
Windleaf: Windleaf...
Stinger: I don't know about you, uh...Windleaf...but I'm not sure if we're
lucky to be alive or not...
Windleaf: I...don't understand what's going on, either...
...but for some reason you and I were...chosen to survive...
We just need to find that reason!
Stinger: That's easy enough...
We're alive so the nightmarish creatures prowling around here can
have a fresh supply of meat...
Windleaf: You've already given up, haven't you?
Stinger: I...I'm not sure what I think right now...
Windleaf: I should probably be on my way.
Stinger: On your way to...where? Karillon?
Windleaf: Hardly. It would take forever to get there!
I guess I'll try to make it to Fort Khelest in Barleygrove.
Maybe the soldiers can help us sift through the ruins here...
...and in Enclaan...
Stinger: I'll come with you...if it's okay...
I need to fetch some help.
Windleaf: Suit yourself. But let's leave now...The smoke around here is
making me gag...
o--------------------------------o
| Windleaf has joined the party! |
o--------------------------------o
---- Go left and up to exit to the world map.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Mountain Pass 0022
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At various parts of the field map there are map glyphs with detailed text
explaining their meaning. The first one is of two stick figures.
---------
World Map
---------
o-----------------------------o
| Icon of "The Twins." |
| Legend has it that these |
| two wandered away from |
| their village in the dead |
| of night. Found the next |
| morning, there was little |
| left of them except smoking |
| ashes in the outlines of |
| two children. |
o-----------------------------o
At the southern edge of the land there is a sea monster glyph.
o---------------------------------o
| Icon of a d'haarggh. |
| Feared and loathed by |
| seafaring folk for centuries, |
| there creatures were hunted to |
| near extinction in the latter |
| half of the past century. They |
| are now protected, and are |
| making a steady comeback. |
o---------------------------------o
---- Go up the map to the Mountain Pass.
Stinger: Wait a second...
Windleaf: What's wrong? Do you hear something?
Stinger: Nah...nothing like that. I just had an idea...
Windleaf: Yes, I suppose that might startle you...
Stinger: Hardy har har...No, a friend of mine, Muggins, lives near here...
Windleaf: I see...Would you like to check on...her?
Stinger: Muggins is a "he" and yeah, I would.
He might be able to help out...he's a tough old sod!
Windleaf: We can use all the help we can get. Lead the way.
---- The two of them automatically cross the river and enter a hut.
-------------
Muggins's Hut
-------------
Setting: There is a body on the floor and a robot standing close by.
Stinger: What the...? Stay back, Windleaf. It's one of those Gadgeteer
robots...
And...it's KILLED MUGGINS! Get ready to die, machine!!!
Windleaf: No, wait, Stinger! I think I've seen this robot somewhere before...
Stinger: It's a Gadgeteer mercenary! Keerg's blood...get ready for the fight
of your life!
Windleaf: Stinger...uh, I hate to disappoint you, but this is a farming robot!
He couldn't have killed this person!
Besides...i think it's broken or something.
Stinger: We'll see about that!
Hey! You there! What are you doing here?
Robot: ...
Windleaf: You're from Barleygrove, right? I've seen you out in the fields...
Robot: ...
Stinger: This is stupid. We must be losing our minds, talking to a busted
robot.
You check on Muggins. I'll push this dungheap off into the
corner...(He moves to push the Robot)
Robot: Do not...
Stinger: Yiiiiii...! It's gonna kill us!!!
Robot: ...touch me again.
Stinger: ... Why didn't you answer us before?
Robot: I was evaluating your status. Friend or foe?
Windleaf: Of course we're friends!
Robot: If you are lying, I will defend.
There will be death.
(NOTE: This is the first of many times that you will hear this catch
phrase!!)
Stinger: Death?! Whoa! Time out! I wasn't trying to hurt you!
If you don't believe me, then...well...take your best shot! Hoe us
to death or something!
Robot: Hoe? You are in error.
I wield a 'scythe', a tool designed to expedite the reaping process.
Stinger: R...reaping process...As in...the G...G...GRIM Reaper?!?
Robot: Correct. I am a reaper...
...a taker of barley, along with other grains and fruits.
---- Stinger moves away to face the corner.
Robot: I am not an assassin. I am an Eyreworks Multi-Purpose Agricultural
Labour Robot. 'Harvester' series, Mark Five.
Windleaf: What are you doing here?
Robot: I was in the fields when Barleygrove was attacked.
Before he died, my owner ordered me to seek aid.
I complied. I came here. You arrived. That is all.
Stinger: `You're kidding, right? That part about Fort Khelest being under
siege...?!
Robot: The fort had sustained significant damage by the time I left
Barleygrove.
My lands were scorched. Crops burned...
An unknown entity was attacking. It used mystic forces to wreak
havoc.
Stinger: That...sounds awfully familiar...
Robot: Enough talk. I was instructed to seek aid. I have found it. You
will come to Barleygrove.
Stinger: Huh...? Since when do we follow the demands of farm robots?!
Windleaf: Relax, Stinger...We;re on our way there anyway. There's safety in
numbers. We'll go with you, Robot.
Stinger: Oh, all right. It's a plan. We'll all go to Barleygrove.
Windleaf: Great! Are you ready to go...um...
Robot?
Robot: Yes?
Windleaf: Mmm...just thinking 'Eyreworks Multi-Purpose Agricultural Labour
Robot' is a little long for a name...
Robot: Ah. I understand. In Barleygrove, I am known as...
Quick! What's my name? Harv-5.
Windleaf: Harv-5! That's a wonderful name.
Stinger: For a robot bumpkin, that is...
Windleaf: Stinger! We're all on the same side now...Okay?
Stinger: Yeah...you're right. Let's get outta here.
o-------------------------------o
| Harv-5 has joined the party! |
o-------------------------------o
---- Check the bed.
Stinger: Looks inviting, but this is no time to sleep...!
---- Check the body.
Stinger: Ohhh...this is bad. What could have happened to him? It...it's not
natural...
---- Check the things at the side of the room.
o-----------------------------o
| Back issues of |
| 'Mountain Man Quarterly'... |
o-----------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Forest nuts and berries... |
o----------------------------o
o------------------o
| Dirty laundry... |
o------------------o
---- Check the books:
o------------------------o
| "Keerg's Fables" |
| By the Brothers Woods. |
| |
| Read it? |
| Yes |
| No |
o------------------------o
o--------------o
| It's a book! |
| Read it? |
| Yes |
| No |
o--------------o
o---------------------------o
| 'Day Trips from Karillon: |
| THe Homelands' |
o---------------------------o
---- They can now leave the hut.
---- They return to the far side of the river and go up to the next hut.
Stinger: Hold up...this is my cousin Brink's place.
I want to check on him.
Harv-5: The roof of this domicile is defective.
it will collapse within two seasons. There may be death.
Stinger: Keerg's bones, Harv-5!
One more revelation like that and I'm gonna find your off switch!
Brink...BRINK...!! You in there?!
o-----------------o
| Door is locked! |
o-----------------o
Stinger: Huh?! Locked! What the...
Windleaf: He must be out. Oh, well, let's get going.
Stinger: You don't understand. Brink never locks this door.
I'm surprised the door even HAS a lock.
Something's not quite right...
Harv-5: Considering the state of affairs, this is a prudent security
measure.
Stinger: Yeah? What's prudent can be made unprudent...
Windleaf: Is that even a word?
Hey! What do you think you're doing?
Stinger: I'm pickin' the lock, what's it look like?
**** This is a level 1 lock. Do you want instructions?
Yes
No
---- Fail to get pick the lock.
Stinger: Stay with it...Almost there...
o---------------------------o
| You can do it! |
| keep trying and this lock |
| is history! |
o---------------------------o
---- Have another go.
Stinger: This time I'll get this thing open...
o----------------------------o
| Success! the lock is open! |
o----------------------------o
Stinger: Nothing to it! C'mon!
Windleaf: Wait...you want us to go in there with you?
Stinger: Hey...he's my cousin! Nothin' to worry about. It'll only take a
minute!
Windleaf: Oh boy...come along, Harv-5.
Harv-5: As you wish.
---- They enter the hut.
-----------
Brink's Hut
-----------
Setting: A hut with a camp bed, a stove and a large ticking pendulum clock.
Brink: Get your hands up, or I'll drop ya where ya stand!
Windleaf: Why am I not surprised?
Harv-5: He has armed himself with a soup ladle.
Run or we will all be slaughtered.
Stinger: Brink, you knothead! What's gotten into you? It's me, Stinger!
Brink: These days things aren't what they seem...Prove it!
Stinger: Oh, I get it. Fine. Hmmmm...where shall I start?
Okay, let's see...you enjoy fleece underwear...adorned with cuddly
animal designs.
Brink: HEY...!
Stinger: You were married 3 times by the time you turned 27.
Wife 1 convinced you to join a pagan, matriarchal, moon-worshipping
cult. You finally left her.
Wife 2, Mirina, smiled too much. She was always humming a little
song. She ran off with a travelling minstrel. What was his name
...Bespear! That's it.
Wife 3 was the daughter of a notorious leather tycoon. Now SHE
was...
Brink: Enough!
Stinger! I'm so glad to see you! He's after me! You gotta help
me!
Harv-5: He? He as in...?
Brink: I don't know!
He's making noises out there, all night long, around the house...
...whispering...whispering...
Windleaf: What's he saying?
Brink: He's taunting me...Threatening me...
He calls himself...
Windleaf: Go on!
Brink: Tom.
Stinger: Some guy named "Tom" is after you?
That's it?
Brink: He's not a person!
He tells me he's a god...That he can't be defeated...That he will
kill me...
And I know he's telling me the truth...stay away from him, whatever
you do!
An army couldn't kill him!
Stinger: Maybe this "Tom" is the one who killed Muggins?
Brink: He makes the whole house stink like rotting flesh! Arggghhhhh!
Stinger: Hang on, cousin. Take a deep breath. ...relax...
Brink: How about down your way? Is everything okay? How's Aunt Ari...?
Stinger: Mum is dead, Brink...
...the whole house ...it's gone...
Wiped out when something attacked Port Lochane and the surrounding
areas.
First dad croaks on one of his journeys, and now I lose mum...
Brink: Oh god...no...I'm...so sorry...
I didn't know but...I just had this feeling...and...I'm...
Stinger: ...I know...Look...there's nothing to say...
At any rate, we've decided to make for Fort Khelest to get help.
You wanna come?
Brink: No. I'm not going anywhere.
And I think I've had all the joy I can stand for one day...
You're all welcome to stay here...rest up if you want.
Windleaf: Thanks.
Harv-5: You are a reader? I see a book?
Brink: What? Oh, yes, actually I do read a lot.
Harv-5: What is the matter?
Brink: Everything's the matter! The world has gone crazy! Are you dense?!
Harv-5: No, the printed matter. What is the subject?
Brink: Oh, that is what you meant? Sorry...
Take a look for yourself if you want.
Stinger: We're all a little on edge, Brink.
Brink: Yeah...
Stinger: Maybe we'll take you up on your offer. We need a rest break!
Brink: You look tired. Would you like to rest a bit?
Yes
No (OK, suit yourself)
#Select No.
---- Speak to Brink again.
Brink: Stinger...this isn't the first time our world has been thrown into
the dung heap... so to speak.
Stinger: Hey! You're not gonna go all "sagey" on me here...are you?
Brink: I'm serious! Some of the old tales...The prophecies...Things are
looking bad...
Windleaf: I grew up with such stories, too.
Harv-5: Tales of an ancient evil...
Stinger: Man...Those stories are a load of hog dung!
Windleaf: You doubt the wisdom of prophecy? You don't believe in evil?
Stinger: Listen, my mum used to say that evil is just 'live' backwards.
There's no such thing as evil! It's all in how you look at it.
Brink: Tell that to the things out in the woods, buddy!
Harv-5: I concur. Your logic, while optimistic, is flawed.
Stinger: Yeah? Flawed? So is your hat, your wooden bumpkin!
Windleaf: All right, let's agree to disagree on this. Fair enough?
Brink: Sure.
Stinger: Whatever.
Windleaf; Hmmm...I feel much better now. Men!
Brink: You look tired. Would you like to rest a bit?
Yes
No
##Select Yes.
o-------------------------------o
| Party refreshed through sleep |
0-------------------------------o
---- Continue
Save
Quit
---- After this speak to Brink again.
Brink: Make yourself at home.
---- Check the clock.
o-------------------------------o
| Miniature Gadgeteer-built |
| timepiece. Correct to within |
| three seconds a month. |
o-------------------------------o
---- Check the book. All the books contain masses of comic information.
Stinger: What have we here?
Read it?
Yes
No.
---- Choose to read it and when it is finished...
o------------------o
| To be continued. |
o------------------o
Stinger: Grr! I hate cliffhanger endings!
---- Leave the hut and go up the path to find a body.
--------------
Finding a Body
--------------
Stinger: Ohh...*gag*...I'm gonna puke...*choke*...
Windleaf: It's okay...this is shocking. No one thinks less of you.
Stinger: No! ...*cough* It's because I KNEW this guy!
Windleaf: How...can you tell?
Stinger: Trust me. His name was Jerse.
he used to hunt and fish around these parts. Pretty tough, too...
Windleaf: I'm sorry...
Stinger: He was a good guy...Taught me and my friends a lot about the
forest...
If I ever find out who did this...
Harv-5: There will...be death.
Stinger: Well...yes!
Windleaf: We've got to keep going. We're sitting ducks around here...
Stinger: All right...Rest well, Jerse.
---- Cross the river and go inside the first cave to find a body.
Stinger: Hmmm...that uniform...Or what's left of it...Looks like a
courier...probably from Karillon.
Windleaf: He probably came here looking for shelter...
Stinger: Ugh...big mistake. Something nasty got here first!
Harv-5 That 'something' may return. We should be cautious.
Stinger: Good idea. Keep your weapons handy!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Enclaan 0023
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Once the group have reached the far side of the Pass they approach a person who
runs away.
---------
World Map
---------
Stinger: Hey, come back!
---- Go left to the edge of the map and there a sun gylph.
o------------------------------------o
| "Mag", the name the Arkosians |
| have given their sun. He's seen |
| as a deity that ignores the plight |
| of the folks down on Arkose, |
| going to sleep each night instead |
| of guarding the dreams of the |
| innocent. |
o------------------------------------o
---- Go right and follow the path to find some stars.
o----------------------------o
| "The 4 Sisters." |
| A constellation which |
| is only seen in the |
| wintertime, and which |
| is celebrated as a symbol |
| of hope. |
o----------------------------o
-------
Enclaan
-------
Setting: Enclaan is in ruins and a pool appears to be poisoned.
Windleaf: I refuse to believe this is Enclaan...I've spent my whole life here
and I can barely recognise it.
Debris all over the pathways...You can barely walk through here!
The worst thing is the trees...All these beautiful kii trees used to
stand straight and tall...
Now they look like bent candle sticks...completely dead...
---- They speak to the man.
Windleaf: Mr. Nakar...is that you?! It's me, Windleaf!
Mr. Nakar: Flat as a pancake...Whole town's been crushed...
My wife's around here you know...In fact...
YOU'RE STANDING ON HER! GET OFF MY WISE!
Windleaf: Snap out of it!
Look I'm so sorry, Mr. Nakar...but you have to pull yourself
together! You need to get out of here.
Mr. Nakar: But I've only just returned! I leave town for a few days and look
what happens to the neighbourhood!
Honey...Honey, I'm home! Yoo hoo! Where are you?
Stinger: What's wrong with him?
Windleaf: I...I don't know. It's like he's in a trance...
He used to run the store in town. He was so kind to me...to all of
us. I think he's gone a tad bonkers...
Harv-5 Inaccurate, technically, but I concur.
Mr. Nakar: Housecleaning is atrocious...Like a bakery...four everywhere...
Harv-5: For whatever reasons, this man is beyond our reach. We must make
haste. This place is not healthy.
---- They go up and right.
Windleaf: This used to be the Niam Inn, a famous health spa...
Wealthy people used to come here and pay big money to have spa
employees rub hot mud all over them.
Then they'd hop into the mineral pool to wash off...
Stinger: Looks more like a cesspool now...
---- Speak to the person outside the building.
Survivor: Got some real-estate for sale...Real cheap! Interested?
---- Head left and up to go into a new area. Go left.
Windleaf: My house is...was over there, across the bridge...
We had a great view out, over the valley...
I hope everyone is...okay...wherever they are...
Stinger: Amen...
Harv-5: I see movement. Living beings. Survivors...
Stinger: Hmmm...looks like a kid and an old lady...
Windleaf: I...I recognise them! It's little Sonja...and...Mrs. Nakar?!?
Stinger: They look okay to me. That's not saying much these days, though...
Windleaf: I understand. Still, we should check on them.
Stinger: Whatever. Keep your eyes peeled, though. Fresh bulrazor tracks
around here.
Harv-5: Affirmative. Hostile predator presence is extremely probable.
Windleaf: Good thing we're well armed, huh? Let's go!
---- Speak twice to the person at the left corner of the path
Sonja: Duck, duck, duck...DEAD! You're it! Aren'tcha gonna play?
The worms crawl in, the worms crawl out...Sing along!
---- Go around the pond to speak to the person on the far side.
Mrs. Nakar:Hello, Windleaf. Thank the stars you're safe!
Windleaf: I can't believe you both survived! We saw your husband by the
spa...He...doesn't seem well...
Mrs. Nakar:Nope. He's totally gone. As mad as a mud hen...But I'll keep him!
He's all I have left.
I'm sorry for your loss, dear...
Windleaf: Thank you...I guess...I...I'm not quite sure what to say...what to
think...
Mrs. Nakar:Well, we all have to go on, dear. That means you and your friends
here, too!
Stinger: Lady has a point.
Harv-5: Indeed. Wisdom in the face of adversity is admirable.
Mrs. Nakar:Flatterers! You'll spoil me saying such things!
Windleaf: We need to go, ma'am. I hope to see you again, though.
Mrs. Nakar:Goodbye, dears. Travel safe!
---- On the way back speak to Mr Nakar again a few times.
Mr. Nakar: Thank you for your patronage.
Big sale coming up next week. Lots of fine merchandise.
Going out of business sale! All human remains, half off!
Lost our lease! Incredible values!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. Forestgrove 0024
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
---- To the right of the north exit is a skeleton.
o-------------------------o
| Ancient petroglyph. |
| Best seen at a distance |
| from above. |
o-------------------------o
---- Below this to the west is a round glyph.
o---------------------------o
| An uraburos, a mythical |
| creature that spends its |
| life trying to devour its |
| own tail. |
o---------------------------o
---- Go south from here to find another large gylph to the west of
Barleygrove.
o------------------------o
| Ancient site or ritual |
| slaughter and human |
| sacrifices. |
o------------------------o
-----------
Forestgrove
-----------
Setting: A peaceful rural village with no hint of anything wrong.
---- Enter Forestgrove and speak to the person in purple.
-----
Hatty
-----
Hatty: Gracious! It's that wooden farmer from Barleygrove!
Only a family as snooty as the Malmots would have money to throw
away on a contraption like that.
Made it all growing rope fibre...Go figure!
Harv-5: Farmer Malmot has perished. His fields lie razed. There has been
death...
Hatty: Oh...Oh, my...
Stinger: Haven't you been seeing a lot of upset people fleeing though here?
Hatty: Well, now that you mention it, there have been a few strangers about
recently.
Had to chase 'em off with an axe.
I thought they was here to rob us, I did!
Course, ever since Arlene turned 16 there's been more traffic
through these parts.
Still, something strange is happening lately. Oh! And...
Windleaf: Go on!
Hatty: Well, there was that guy who walked into the farm here this morning
and fell down deader than a doornail...
Looked like he lit hisself on fire.
Kept mumbling something about magic...Maybe he was a circus man or
somethin'?
Never up to any good, that sort. Jedro had to take 'im off and bury
him somewhere.
Just what's goin' on, kids?
Stinger: Our homes...they were all attacked...Barleygrove, Enclaan...even
Port Lochane.
Windleaf: We're hoping to get aid from the militia.
Hatty: Gracious me! All of them towns...attacked.
Y...you'd better tell my husband about this!
At once!
Windleaf: All right, ma'am.
---- Speak to her again.
Hatty: Be sure to speak to my husband before you leave!
---- Talk to the child in red.
---------
Cecil Jr.
---------
Cecil Jr.: You ever killed anythin'?
Windleaf: Uh...why do you ask?
Cecil Jr.: You have weapons!
Stinger: Relax, squirt. We're just travellers.
Cecil Jr.: Travellers, huh? Shucks...
I killed me a snake t'other day, I did!
Stinger: You gotta love this kid...
Cecil Jr.: My pa's gonna make me boots outta the hide, and a necklace outta the
fangs!
Stinger: Cute...
Cecil Jr.: Jedro says Gadgeteer stuff is hosed...
He says it's all evil...and stuff...
Harv-5: Jedro is...misinformed.
Stinger: Still...he may be onto something...!
Windleaf: All right, enough. It was nice meeting you, young man.
Cecil Jr.: Yup...
---- Speak to him again.
Cecil Jr.: Some day I'll be as big as you, and way cooler!
---- Go into the right hut and speak to the person in blue.
--------------
Hattrick's Hut
--------------
Hattrick: Strangers? Strangers in my home, eh?
Stinger: Sorry, old timer. You've got to get out of here. Something evil is
loose...Your farm is next in line to be demolished.
Hattrick: Dear me! Evil is afoot, ya say? Well, I hope it likes beans!
Stinger: Beans...?
Hattrick: Sure and I'd hate to serve up an unpopular dish when evil comes a
callin'!
Stinger: Beans...right. Good idea.
Hattrick: Why, thank ya kindly, strangers! Be seein' ya! On yer way now!
Beans to make, evil to feed, yep!
---- Speak to him again.
Hattrick: Gotta tend to my beans! Never know when evil comes a callin'! Best
to meet yer maker on a full stomach...Mumble, mutter...beans...
mumble...
---- Go left to speak to the bald man by the block of wood.
-----
Cecil
-----
Cecil: Godfrey Daniels! Where in the dickens did you come from?
Stinger: Nice to meet you too...!
Cecil: Oh, sort of lost my manners there. Ain't seen many of them
Gadgeteer thingies in my life.
Just bear with me here!
Stinger: Take all the time you need.
Cecil: Say...that thing'd be pretty handy 'round here. How much do you
want for it?
Stinger: Well...make me an offer!
Windleaf: Stinger!
Stinger: Relax! I'm just kidding!
Windleaf: Harv-5 isn't for sale.
Cecil: Suit yourself, honey.
Windleaf: We're here to warn you! You've got to get out of here immediately!
You're in grave danger!
Cecil: Look, I done paid my taxes, I vote during every election and attend
Church on Sundays.
Ain't no one goin' to mess up my life!
Stinger: This has nothing to do with taxes, or voting or religion!
Cecil: Well, I don't get it then!
Stinger: Something...Like a shadow...A dark wind...
It wiped out Port Lochane...Everything between here and the coast!
Cecil: Put down the pipe, son!
Ain't no shadow I ever seen could do that.
Windleaf: Argh! That was just a figure of speech.
Trust us, there is something very wrong here. Your farm could be
next!
Harv-5: There will be death...
Cecil: Godfrey Daniels, listen to that thing!
Makes my skin crawl! Utterly amazing...
Humph! Well if any shadowy critter comes sniffin' around my house,
I'll bury my axe in its head!
Stinger: If I were you, I'd think about leaving. We're going to hook up with
the militia, ourselves.
Cecil: Well...if this thing's as mean as you say, what good will fortress
walls do me?
Thanks for the thought, but I'll be stayin' here to protect what's
mine!
Stinger: It's up to you.
Cecil: Talk to my wife over there. We don't have much, but we can spare
you some supplies.
Windleaf: Thank you Cecil.
Cecil: Don't mention it. Sure you won't sell that harvester?
Windleaf: Yes...we're sure.
Stinget: I wouldn't feel good selling you something that's defective...
Harv-5: This...this would be humour? I laugh.
Windleaf: Uh...relax, Harv-5...Come on, gang, let's go!
---- Speak to him again.
Cecil: Be sure and talk to the wife, now!
---- Speak to the person in green at the left.
-----
Jedro
-----
Jedro: Howdy, kids. What kin I do ya fer?
Stinger: Um...well, we've got some bad news.
Jedro: Yeah? The Bog weevils back? Hate them dang things...
Windleaf: It's worse than that...Our towns have all been attacked. We're
going to get help from the militia.
Stinger: And if I were you, I'd pack up and come along with us.
Jedro: Well, ain't that just dandy! Fortunately, ya ain't me! Never heard
so much nonsense in my life!
Windleaf: Sir, you don't understand. My home town is in ruins.
Stinger: Something from hell crushed Port Lochane...
All of it...Houses, ships...everything!
Harv-5: There has been death.
Windleaf: Animals I've never seen roam the forest, attacking on sight.
They are vicious...They do not feat men...
Jedro: ...
Well, now, why'd anyone want to go 'n blow up the whole durn world?
Stinger: How should we know? Look, mister...
Jedro: No, I'm thinkin' you're up to something!
You're just funnin' me, ain't ya? Some sorta dare...
Stinger: All you need to do is take one look at Port Lochane. You'll see
what we mean!
Windleaf: Or Enclaan...
Jedro: Cain't say I've ever left the farm...Wouldn't want to do that now,
either. Got nowhere to go, anyway!
Stinger: But...
Jedro: Well, you've had yer fun. Now run along! I've got chores to tend
to.
Windleaf: Sir, please...
Jedro: That's Jedro, missy!
Windleaf: Jedro, you've got to do something or everyone here is going to die!
Jedro: Missy, I've had just about enough of this!
Git on outta here, and take your friends with ya, especially that
there spittoon with eyeballs.
Harv-5: I am a harvester mark 5. Please make note of this.
Stinger: Oh, for Keerg's sake...It would be hard to kill anyone this stupid!
Jedro: I heard that, ya little guttersnipe! Now, GIT!
Windleaf: That was brainy. Now what are we going to do?
Stinger: I don't know if there is anything to do!
We warned him, he didn't believe us, that's that!
Harv-5: I concur.
Windleaf: I hope you two can sleep at night.
Stinger: I don't think I'll ever be able to sleep again...
Harv-5: Sleep is for dreamers...
Windleaf: Oh, come on, you two!
---- Speak to Jedro again
Jedro: I've had enough of yer lip! Now scram!
---- Go inside the house at the top of the village. Speak to the person
in the dress.
--------------------
Ara and Arlene's Hut
--------------------
Ara: Hullo!
Windleaf: Hi. I'm Windleaf. This is Harv-5, and that's Stinger.
Ara: My! What strange names you have! So unusual and colourful! My
name is Ara.
Stinger: Hi, Ara...
Harv-5: Salutations.
Ara: Huh?!
Windleaf: Ara, you're going to have to get your family to leave this place!
Something awful is happening. People are dying. Towns are being
destroyed...
Ara: Gracious, me! You'd best speak to Pa 'bout this.
Stinger: Um...where's Pa?
Ara: He's right outside...ya cain't miss him!
Stinger: Older fella...Kinda cranky...Big scab on his forehead?
Ara: That'd be my Jedro, all right!
Windleaf: We've...uh...already spoken with him Ara.
Stinger: Charming fellow...
Windeleaf: Shhh...!
Harv-5: He importuned us to leave, madam.
Ara: Shucks, I ain't no madam!
Anyway, Pa'll take care of us if there's something wrong. Don't you
worry now. We'll be all right!
Stinger: Couple of peas in a pod...
Windleaf: Well, thank you Ara. Come on, guys...
Ara: Y'all take care, now! Say...
You look like a mite worn out! Why don't you take some of these
here?
Mixed 'em myself!
o-----------------o
| Party received: |
| Fyrn Salve |
o-----------------o
Windleaf: Thanks!
---- Speak to her again.
Ara: Well, hello! Thought maybe you'd left already.
---- Speak to the person with the green/yellow headscarf.
Arlene: Well, hullo!
Stinger: Good gods on high! What's your name?
Arlene: Goodness has nothin' to do with it, honey! But as long as you're
askin', I'm Arlene. Pleased to meet ya!
Windleaf: Uh, Stinger...Yoo-hoo...!
Stinger: Oh, yeah...this is Windleaf, and that's Harv-5.
Arlene: Oh! you're that robot...from Barleygrove, right? My, what a manly
thing you are!
Harv-5: I am a fully automated harvester robot. I am quite unlike any man
you may know.
Arlene: I'll bet, sugar...And you, Windleaf...You must be from Enclaan!
Windleaf: What used to be Enclaan...
Arlene: And you...sniff...i smell the sea in your clothes. You must be from
Lochane. I do so love a sailor!
Stinger: Um...yeah...I used to be from there...
Arlene: Excuse me, honey?
Stinger: Port Lochane...it's been smashed.
Arlene: What could destroy an entire town?
Stinger: Something unnatural attacked...I can't describe it...Everything just
fell apart...
Windleaf: Enclaan was hit the same way. You've got to get out of here.
Arlene: Well! Lucky for us we're all jus' fine.
Harv-5: You're in danger, miss. There will be death...
Arlene: Eeek! Stop it! That thing is scarin' the dickens out of me!
Stinger: Oh, don't pay any attention to Harv-5. He's about as subtle as a
sledgehammer.
Anyway, these parts aren't exactly safe any more. We're going to
try and get help from the militia.
Arlene: How brave of you! I wish I could go with you! But I ain't allowed
off the farm. Pa's pretty specific about that...
Windleaf: You should talk to your father. Try and convince him!
Arlene: Well, I'll talk to the others...But we're pretty set in our ways
'round here.
Stinger: For your sake, I hope they listen.
Arlene: Well ain't that sweet! You should probably talk to Pa and Cecil
before you go!
Windleaf: We will. Good luck, Arlene.
Arlene: Thank ya, honey! Take care, now!
Stinger: We'll try to send someone back to check on you.
Arlene: Fine, so long as it's you, sugar!
---- Speak to her again.
Arlene: Y'all come back real soon!
---- Go inside the hut to the right and find a book.
-----
Hatty
-----
---- Go back and speak to Hatty. After repeating some of what she said
before, Stinger will interrupt.
Stinger: Your husband said something about supplies.
Windleaf: Stinger! That's rude!
Hatty: Go easy on the young fella...I overheard your talk with Cecil!
Windleaf: Yes...well...
Hatty: Sounds like you kids are in a bit of a rush.
That's all right! Here you are.
---- Get three items.
Stinger: Thanks, ma'am. Sorry if I sounded rude...
Hatty: Oh, don't fret.
Windleaf: Thank you.
Hatty: You're welcome, dear! And take good care of your gizmo, here.
He'd be a pretty penny to replace!
Stinger: Good bye!
---- Speak to her again.
Hatty: Travel safe!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
v. Barleygrove 0025
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The group arrives at a devastated and burned out garrison town.
Harv-5: This is unexpected...The devastation...Little remains.
Stinger: Just like Lochane...blasted to hell and back.
Windleaf: The fortress...I can hardly believe this!
Harv-5: I hear...voices. We are not alone. There are survivors.
Stinger: Yeah...survivors...or worse.
Windleaf: Right, right...Here's a question...
Stinger: Yes...?
Windleaf: NOW what do we do?!? This place is a crater!
Stinger: Well...I say we go to Karillon.
Windleaf: Karillon...? That's a long way to walk, you know!
Harv-5: The distancee is considerable, but our alternatives are few.
Stinger: Yeah, what haybrain said. We really don't have a choice here,
Windleaf.
Windleaf: Karillon...my people were forbidden to go there. Too much sin and
evil, my father would say.
Stinger: Ha! My kinda town! It's been a while, too...
Hope the constables have forgotten about my last visit...heh heh...
Windleaf: Oh, dear.
Stinger: Karillon it is. Let's see if there's any survivors, then get
moving!
---- Go forwards for another scene.
Mecha: Pardon me, but could you spare some Kii nuts for a fellow Arkosian
down on his luck?
Stinger: Ok/Sorry, can't spare any!
Ok.
Mecha: Thanks! I'll never forget this. Hope I can return the favour
someday! Bye!
---- Mecha leaves.
---- Go left and then up behind the tree to a new area and find three
more people.
Homeless
Man: I was just dusting my living room yesterday...And today my living
room is just dust. What a difference a day makes!
---- Speak to him again.
Homeless
Man: So much for farming...
---- Speak to the man in grey.
Soldier: Ohh... *moan* ...we got trashed, man...
---- Speak to him again.
Soldier: ...slapped us down like we were made of straw...the entire
regiment...Fort Khelest...gone...
...Keerg himself couldn't have withstood that kind of a pounding...
...hopeless...demon...evil...Ohh...
---- Speak again.
---- Ahhh...*moan*. Nothin' left here.
Ya oughta make for Karillon! they'll know what's going on!
---- Go up and speak to the figure in red.
Lost Woman:My family is coming back! You'll see, they'll be back. I just have
to wait here for 'em.
---- Speak again
Lost Woman:Leave me alone! I have to keep an eye out for my children.
---- Go on up the screen to reach a new area with a hole in the ground.
---- Go left to speak to the Orphan.
Orphan: This is my mommy. At first she made me feel sick to my stomach, but
now she's nice to me.
I can see all kinds of animals and things moving around inside of
her...Gonna have a brother or a sister soon!
---- Scene of the red/orange and green hole centre.
---- Speak to them again.
Orphan: I like the glow....It's purty!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vi. Red Tom's Cave 026
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Inside Red Tom's Cave, they move forwards and an ugly large spider
attacks the group. There are a number of dead bodies here.
Stinger: I think I hear something...(He moves forwards and falls.)
Red Tom: I thought they stopped delivering...
Stinger: ...Delivering...?
Red Tom: MEAT! Run for your life! Yaaaaahooooo!
---- If Stinger goes straight to the far end.
Stinger: What a stench! This...this is definitely bad...Something...This is
something's lair...
---- After the battle is over Stinger can check each body. He comments
on the two by the entrance and the one at the far side.
Stinger: Poor sap...Probably didn't see it coming.
Squissssh...Ooog...that was bad,
Ohhhh, boy, I hope I didn't step in what I think I stepped in...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vii. Rockra 0027
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
To the left is a black bird.
o-----------------o
| Warning marker |
| Danger ahead! |
o-----------------o
In front of the cave entrance is a collection of bones.
---- Go inside and right.
Setting: There is a large rock creature blocking the steps.
Stinger: !
Windleaf: What's that over there!
Harv-5: Creature does not register.
Stinger: Let's try and sneak up to it...
You go first, Harv-5.
---- They all crawl forwards until they stop in front of a rock monster.
Harv-5: Uh, oh...
Rockra: Gwa...! What you doing here? How you get in?
Urrrrr! WHO LET ANIMALS IN?
---- Rockra eats some rocks.
Rockra: Foo are you(chomp chomp)?
Fwat you fant (burrrrp)?
Windleaf: I think you have something...er, someone stuck in your teeth...
Rockra: GRAAAWWWWWRRR!!
Need sharp object to remove...Your bones, maybe?! Gufwa, ha, ha!
Harv-5: I'm detecting great hostility. It might be wise to leave.
Stinger: Gee, do you think so, professor? What a revelation!
Windleaf: Look, whatever you are...We didn't know anything was living in here,
and...
Rockra: You are reptile or mammal?
Windleaf: Why does that matter? We're on our way to Karillon. We're just
passing through! We don't mean you any harm.
Rockra: Gwuh? Farm? No farm here.
Windleaf: I said HARM...
Rockra: Harm, yes! Play harm game now. If you reptile, they eat you.
Rockra: If you mammal, I eat. Play?
Harv-5: Why would anyone play such a game?
Rockra: And you...You make good pot for keeping foods and dirty things in!
Windleaf: I don't think this thing's going to listen to reason. Any ideas,
Stinger?
Stinger: Ideas?! Well, how about fighting for our lives?
Windleaf: I meant ideas OTHER than the obvious!
Harv-5: Alert! Pleas pay attention. Battle is imminent!
Stinger: The walking barrel ain't kiddin'! L...look out!
---- Fight Rockra.
Harv-5: It would seem my career as a container has been postponed.
Stinger: For now, yeah.
Harv-5: I am troubled, though. My memory contains no data on those
creatures. They should not exist. I cannot explain it.
Stinger: You and me both, pal.
Windleaf: Well, at least we're all in one piece. Let's get going.
Stinger: Right. We'll find all the answers we need...in Karillon.
---- They leave the cave going up the steps to the north.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
viii. Cat Man 0028
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
---- Go up the screen and there is a large white head resting on blood.
o-------------------------------o
| The site of an ancient |
| battlefield. Still resonates |
| with an eerie "vibe" |
o-------------------------------o
---- To the right is a small yellow sun.
o----------------------o
| A petroglyph of Mag, |
| the sun, as a child. |
o----------------------o
---- Further right from here is the Cat Man.
Setting: They are in front of a large pink cat shaped building and there are
lots of statues of cats and a few moggies roaming around gently
mewing.
Windleaf: What a place!
It looks like some kind of a church.
Harv-5: Indeed. It would appear that a feline deity is enshrined here.
Stinger: There he goes again with the wild guesses.
You know, Harv-5, sometimes a cat is just a cat...
Of course, sometimes a cat is a ...
Windleaf: Knock it off, Stinger! If you know something, spit it out!
Stinger: You guys are too much. Okay, get this. The whole place here was
built by one old guy who...
Windleaf: Yes?
Stinger: ...likes cats.
Windleaf: ...
That's all?
Stinger: That's it. Over and out!
Harv-5: Ah...he would be a prophet, then?
Stinger: No! He's just crusty and weird.
Windleaf: I'm a little confused. Have you met this man?
Stinger: Not personally...I've heard about him though. Some say he's a mage,
others believe he's a lunatic...
Harv-5: A cult of personality. Humans often become obsessed with such
people...
Windleaf: Do you think he's dangerous.
Stinger: I'm not sure. Most of the stories about him are harmless...
Windleaf: Such as...?
Stinger: I heard he once helped some lost kids find their way back home...
They say he kept sniffing the ground to find his bearing...
Windleaf: If he's that in tune with Arkose, maybe he can help us!
Stinger: It's possible...of course...
...I've also heard he turns anyone who crosses him into a cat...
Windleaf: Oh...Well...it could be worth the risk.
Harv-5: I would advise against it.
Stinger: Ah! the sage speaks. Do go on, O wise man!
Harv-5: Dealing with unstable or otherwise psychotic humans involves risk...
Stinger: Well! That's exactly why we should talk to him!
Windleaf: We should...? Are you sure?!
Stinger: I'm of the mind that the only sane people left are the ones who were
crazy to begin with.
Windleaf: Oh, dear.
Stinger: Come on!
---- They go inside the cat building.
Setting: There are more cats and the Catman.
OPTIONS: There are three options, which give slightly different results.
---- Stinger can decide to clean the cat litter tray...or not.
# OPTION 1
Stinger: It's a cat litter box! Scoop 'er clean?
Ugh...I suppose!
No way!
---- Select no way.
Catman: Oh, my. terribly sorry. Running short on litter!
---- Go to the table and check the book.
Catman: Oh no you don't! That's my book! You don't have permission!
# OPTION 2
---- Select Ugh...I suppose
Catman: Why, that was kind of you. For your efforts, I'd like to
share...something with you.
Stinger: Er...that won't be necessary. Thanks, anyway!
Catman: Gracious me! I'm not talking about that stuff from the cat box!
I just thought you'd like to read my book! Might help you in your
travels!
Suppose it could be a bit out of date, but any knowledge is better
than none at all, right?
It's over there on the table!
Stinger: It's Catman's old book!
o-------------------------o
| The Nomads of Uhndrashi:|
| Savagery in the Sands |
o-------------------------o
# OPTION 3
---- If they do nothing and directly speak to Catman.
Catman: Meow, meow, meee-ow! That's feline for 'Hello there, children!'
Stinger: Uh...heh heh...riiiight. Hello.
Catman: As you may guess, I'm rather fond of animals.
Windleaf: Uh...that's nice...Psst! Harv-5! Stinger!
Catman: Quite frankly, I'm wondering if you do?
Windleaf: Say something, Stinger!
Stonger: I'm at a loss for words...
Harv-5: That's a first...
Catman: And how 'bout you, big fella?
Harv-5: I neither like nor dislike animals.
Catman: Middle roader, eh? Won't take ya too far...
I'm especially partial to...certain animals! Care to guess?
Windleaf: Hmm...what could it be...Cats...definitely cats! Who cares?!
Catman: You noticed! They are my life! Keep themselves tidy, too. Never a
mess...
Can't stand dogs. Hate their panting and slobbering. Try to keep
clean, they do, they lick and lick and lick and...
Windleaf: Mister...Before you make me ill...I think we get the point.
We're glad you like cats. We like cats too. Everyone likes cats.
Carman: Now you're talking!
Stinger: Now that we're clear on cats...Do you know anything about what's
happening lately?
Harv-5: A malady is spreading though the land. Things are dysfunctional.
Catman: Master of the understatement, eh? Sure, I've got eyes! Been around
a long time, I have. Not certain what it is though. Go fish! Ha!
Hey, all kidding aside, I do have something for you. Won't answer
your questions, but it might help you.
It's some tasty fish!
o-----------------o
| Party received: |
| Greencod |
o-----------------o
Stinger: Hey, thanks...these fish are hard to come by!
Catman: And if you come back later, I might have something else for you.
I'm a great proponent of the barter system.
---- Speak to him again.
Catman: Welcome travellers.
===============================================================================
3. KARILLON 0030
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Visit
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
At the bottom of the map in the southwest corner is a large a brown thing with
two circles
o------------------------o
| Icon denotes the |
| "Plains of Discontent",|
| a forlorn area where |
| few dare travel. |
o------------------------o
FMV as they arrive, showing the height of the city towering above, and Windleaf
petting a yellow bird.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Karillon Gates 0031
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They are in front of a double open gateway with two guards and a man
to the left.
Stinger: Whew...Here at last!
Windleaf: It...it's enormous! And beautiful...!
Harv-5: Except for the obvious Gadgeteer engineering, this structure is
highly inefficient.
The Gadgeteers must be growing bored...
They waste their time on mindless diversions.
They...amuse themselves at the expense of your people...
Stinger: Look, I don't care what the hell they're doing, as long as we get
some help.
I know we didn't plan on staying together, but I'm hoping you can
help me for just a little while longer...
I promise I'll do what I can to help you in return. Okay?
Windleaf: I suppose so...
I've been trying so hard not to think about anything...I don't know
what to do next.
Harv-5: I will help. But only for a dayspan. I must be heading...home.
Stinger: Thanks! C'mon...these guards ought to be helpful.
YO! Constable!
---- They turn towards the guards, who turn to face them.
Alaan: Can I help you?
Stinger: Yeah...We need to talk to someone...We've got important news!
Benj: News? What about?
Stinger: Well...it's about Port Lochane...
Windleaf: And Enclaan...
Harv-5: Barleygrove as well.
Benj: Let me guess...Someone down there grew a prize yam or pumpkin or
something, right?
Stinger: Idiots...World's full of 'em...Kinda sad, really...
Benj: Or, like, maybe a hog was born with two heads or something!
Windleaf: No, you see, those places are gone. Something...smashed them.
Benj: More like someone's smashed, if you get my drift...
Maybe it was someone with a REALLY bad barley complex! Ha, ha!
Or maybe a cereal killer! Get it? Doing away with all those grains
and things! Ha, ha, ha....!
Gods, I crack myself up!
Stinger: Why, you goat loving son of ...
Alaan: Hold on...settle down, you two! Now that I think about it, there
might be some truth to this.
---- The two guards turn to face each other.
Benj: What are you talkin' about?
Alaan: If you ever showed up on time for our morning staff meetings you'd
know.
None of our caravans to that region have made it back. We've been
wondering what happened...now maybe we know.
Benj: Oh, uh...
Stinger: Go ahead, pal, whoop it up now...
---- The guards turn back to face the party.
Alaan: The captain will want to hear about this. You'll find him in
Middletown, near the Skyway.
Stinger: We'll find him.
Alaan: I imagine we'll begin to see others like you shortly...better get
some temporary shelter ready...
---- The party reform as the conversation ends.
---- Speak to the third person.
Miloe: Hey! What's the bog deal? Why are you chasing me?
Stinger: Chasing...you...? Aha! So you were the one who kept racing off
back there!
Miloe: I thought maybe you were working for...that thing!
Stinger: What...thing?
Miloe: Don't know what it was...Saw it on my way back from the Homelands...
It took off into the air on the heels of the explosion. You know...
when Port Lochane got torched.
Stinger: Go on...
Miloe: Still sends shiver down my spine when I think about it...so odd...
my eye couldn't even stay trained on it...it's like it kept shifting
out of focus or something...
Stinger: By the way...how on earth did you get past Rockra?
Miloe: Excuse me?
Stinger: You know, in that cave back there. The rock creature. It nearly
killed us!
Miloe: You must have eaten some bad bread! That was only a pile of rocks!
I just climbed over 'em!
Stinger: Wonderful...I guess that was a special treat meant just for us...
Miloe: Yeah, whatever...
Stinger: Well, we're glad to see some others made it out of the Homelands
alive.
Maybe we can talk to you again later?
Miloe: Don't bet on it...I'm gonna lock myself away somewhere and throw
away the key!
---- Speak to him again.
Miloe: Stop harassing me, will ya?! Find someone else to haunt...
---- Speak to the guards again.
Alaan: Do us a favour...Try to keep this under your hat. Don't want anyone
here to panic!
Benj: Way things are goin', it won't be long until the militia is
mobilised.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Oldtowne Locations 0032
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Oldtowne has the Inn, some private residences and the temple amongst
others. A path goes across and up to the right leading into Middletowne.
------------------------------
Buildings: From left to right.
------------------------------
1. Guillame's Hangout
2. The Temple
3. Liam's House
4. Blacksmith's Shop
5. Dung Merchant
6. Clara's House
7. Danl's Curiosities
8. Inn of the Gallant Stag
9. Traylor's Speedy Mart
10. Chef Croquer's House
11. Chambermaid's House:
12. Blue Door Pub
13. Guardhouse
14. Karl the Kept Man's House
-----------------------------------------
People in the Street: Ossar, Namm, Lilga.
-----------------------------------------
On arrival, speak to the first person you see, another guard.
-----
Ossar
-----
Ossar: Hail and well met, young travellers. Welcome to Karillon! Where
are ya from?
Stinger: Uh...a few different places...
Ossar: Ah! It's nice to see some new faces. It's your first time here,
eh?
Stinger: For some of us. maybe...
Ossar: Well, for those of you how want to know about our fair city, how
about a brief armchair tour?
Yes.
No.
Select yes for the tour. (Select no and nothing more is said.)
Ossar: Karillon is really three cities in one.
First there's Oldtowne, where we are right now. It's been here
forever.
Used to be the foundation of a castle or something, but now it's
where most of the motley, penniless folks hang out...
...or the lucky sods who get to guard 'em, like yours truly.
Heh, heh...that's a little guard humour. Ahem.
Shall I continue?
Yes.
No.
Select yes.
Ossar: A little higher you'll find Middletowne.
Artisans, sages, physicians and plumbers live there. Prices of
things are higher, but the items are top-notch!
At the very top you'll find Hightowne.
The Gadgeteers put that part together...can't say I like it so
much...looks like part of a bad dream or something...
Anyway, that's where rich folds eke out their miserable
existences...ha!
You should see some of those places up there...Gads, I should live
so good!
The Ruling Council has its digs up in Hightowne, too. Bunch of
idiots dressed up to the hilt, trying not to get impeached...
Windleaf: What a strange sounding place...
Ossar: She's a treasure, our Karillon! Take care...you may never want to
leave!
Harv-5: The way things are going we may have not have any choice...(sic)
---- Speak to him again.
Ossar: Lot's to see and do here. Have fun!
---- Go left and speak to another person.
----
Namm
----
Namm: Dang it! Can't you hoods tell I don't have any money?
Stinger: Relax. We're not robber.
Namm: Suuuuuuuuure you're not robbers. Right. You think I was born
yesterday, punk?
Stinger: Look...I'm telling the truth!
Namm: If you ain't robbers, then explain why you're armed to the teeth,
outnumber me, and are hangin' out here!
Stinger: We're refugees from towns that've been blasted to bits.
Namm: Sure...
Stinger: We armed ourselves to survive the trip here.
Namm: Uh, huh...
Stinger: We're in a group because there's safety in numbers.
Namm: Right...
Stinger: We're here because we need help...hope...A reason to keep going on.
Namm: Oh. Okay. Sorry I was such a git...
Stinger: We get that a lot lately. Don't worry about it.
Namm: Right. I'll be on my way...Gotta see about getting this foot out of
my mouth...
Stinger: Right. Take it easy...
---- Speak to him again.
Namm: Hail and well met, fellow citizens. I hear the Innkeeper has a soft
heart. He lets people in a bind sleep for free...Know what I mean,
wink, wink? Heh heh heh!
---- Speak to him again.
Namm: Dang it! Can't you hoods tell I don't have any money?
---- Go to the far right and speak to the woman in a green dress.
-----
Lilga
-----
Lilga: Well, well, well...A bunch of good-lookin' kids, out on the town.
Stinger: Evenin', good lady.
Lilga: Ooooh, I ain't no lady, handsome. But thanks for the compliment
just the same.
Stinger: (blush) Oh..OH! I get it...
Windleaf: I think we better move on, Stinger...
Lilga: Oh, don't be greedy, honey. There's plenty of this hunk to go
around, know what I mean?
Windleaf: No! I mean...yes! I mean...
Stinger: Why don't you run along with Harv-5, Windleaf? Go play marbles or
somethin'...We'll catch up with you later...
Windleaf: Grrr...Seeing as we don't have a lot of MONEY, we might want to move
on...Get it?
Stinger: Huh?...Oh, yeah...
Lilga: That's okay, kid. SOme other time...when you're rich, famous...and
single.
Windleaf: Hey!
Harv-5: Battle is probable. We should move from here.
Stinger: Cat fight, you men. And yeah...let's make tracks. See ya, lady.
Lilga: Be seein' ya, kid.
---- Speak to her again.
Lilga: Don't spend any time in the lot next to the Cemetery...unless you
want a good beating! All kinds of thugs hang out there!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Guillame's Hangout
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: the location at the furthest left of the path. An open lot with a
number of bad faced men waiting there.
Guillaume: Well, well, well! Wot do we have here, boys? Bunch of vegetarians,
I'll bet...!
Gimpy: I don't like 'em...much.
Hanson: Me neither...except for I do like that there girrrrrrrrrrl! Woo woo!
Durk: Oy! I hear that! Har har!
Stinger: You jerks looking for some fat lips to go with those fat heads?
Guillaume: You better be able to back that up, squirt. Ain't that right, boys?
Gimpy: That's right boss!
Hanson: They don't call this Duellist's Place fer nothin'!
Guillaume: Let's keep it simple for the country folks. I wager 100 coins we'll
win the fight! Winner takes all!
Guillaume: You gonna put your money where your sorry mouth is, squirt?
Yes
No
---- Yes
Guillaume: Right! Let's rumble!
---- Fight three of them and win.
Guillaume: Fair's fair. Here's yer 100 coins!
o-------------------------o
| Party receives 100 gold |
o-------------------------o
Guillaume: You just wait 'til next time!
---- Speak to Guillaume again.
Guillaume: Back for more, huh? Same wager, 100 coin! Well suckers?
# Select No.
Guillaume: Beat it, ya flamin' sissies! If ya ain't a fighter, you're a
lover, gad forbid...!
##Select Yes.
Guillame: Yaaaarr! Get 'em boys!
---- Fight the three thugs and win.
Guillame: You're such a sorry lot we decided to give one to you.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. The Temple
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: inside the small temple there is a central crescent moon flanked by
two golden orbs on the far wall. In the centre of the building is the stump of
a felled tree.
There are five people here. Jordan, a white bearded blue robed priest
is on the left. Micah, a green robed nun is on the right. Lily, a girl in
purple is to the far left, and Rosco, a man with glasses is to the right. At
far centre is Otis, a green haired grey faced, red eyed crazy person.
------
Jordan
------
Jordan: Greetings, friends.
Stinger: Hello
Jordan: Your weapons...there's no need for them here. This is a place of
peace.
Stinger: If you say so...but I'm holding onto my gear. Some folks might not
agree with you!
Jordan: Do as you will. Know that the guards do not tolerate violence here.
Windleaf: We understand. Thank you for your patience.
Jordan: Patience is one of many virtues we teach here.
Windleaf: I wish there were more places like this!
Jordan: Once, there were places such as this everywhere. Such a time will
return...
It takes many trials and test to achieve understanding.
Harv-5: You are in possession of sound wisdom.
Jordan: It is the wisdom of the ages. Our ancestors speak through my
brothers and I.
Stinger: Well...keep the faith.
Jordan: Always, friends.
---- Speak to him again.
Jordan: May your travels be safe, friends.
-----
Micah
-----
Micah: Welcome to the Karillon Sanctuary, friends.
Windleaf: This place...it's a place of worship?
Micah: For some, yes. Others find if a place of refuge.
Stinger: I hate to be the bearer of bad news...but you should expect more...
um...visitors.
Micah: Oh?
Stinger: Several towns in the Homelands have been attacked...
Micah: I've heard such rumours...
Stinger: All of us managed to survive...
Harv-5: There has been death.
Windleaf: Those who survived will need shelter soon.
Micah: We will welcome them...all of them. Be at ease.
Windleaf: It's good to know they will have a home to go to.
Micah: Indeed. Do you require any assistance?
Stinger: We'll be okay, thanks.
Micah: As you wish. Our doors are always open.
---- Speak to her again.
Micah: May peace be with you, friends.
----
Lily
----
Lily: ...
Stinger: Hello?
Lily: ...
Stinger: Another time, maybe.
-----
Rosco
-----
Rosco: Well, well...Fancy meeting you again.
Stinger: Have we met before?
Rosco: Why ya asking me?
Stinger: Because you said you'd met us before...!
Rosco: Never said nothin' of the kind.
Stinger: You gotta love this place...
---- Speak to him again.
Rosco: I hear the innkeeper's givin' out free eats!
-----
Otis
-----
Otis: Yaaaaaaaah! Go away!
Stinger: Take it easy...we're friends...
Otis: All my friends are worm-food! Taken away by the...
The...YAAAAAAAAAAH!
Stinger: I think we better go...He needs some space...
---- Speak to him again.
Otis: They're coming...YEEEEEEEEEEE!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Liam's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This is a brown building next to the temple. Inside there is a
strange blue device in the centre of the round room. Liam is an old white-
haired man.
Liam: Huh? What? Ye gods! So...they've sent the assassins at last.
Make it quick...You owe me that at least!
Windleaf: Assassins?
Stinger: Nobody's here to hurt you.
Liam: Oh yeah? Explain that Gadgeteer death machine, then!
Harv-5: You are in error. I am a harvester robot.
Liam: Then shouldn't you be on a farm?
And what about that head-lopper, huh?
Windleaf: Sir, Harv-5 isn't capable of harming anyone.
Liam: Why harm people when you can simply slice their heads off?
Stinger: Pardon? Is my head still attached to my body?
Liam: Well, yeah...I guess...
Stinger: Then listen to me. This is simply a piece of Gadgeteer machinery.
It will not harm you.
Liam: Oh? Why didn't ya say so? Well, since you've given me a tip, I'll
share one with you!
Windleaf: Great! We can use all the help we can get.
Liam: Stay out of Hightowne! It's a hotbed of iniquity!
Mark my words! Science...machinery...steel...Instruments of
darkness...
Windleaf: Um...we'll be careful. Harv-5 will help us out...
Liam: You consort with machines...! You marvel at the fruits of evil!
You're already lost! Begone from here, I beg you!
Stinger: Another head case...Is it just me, or is something rotten afoot?
Liam: Leave! You shall not damn me, too!
---- Speak to him again.
Liam: Technology is the devil's foolery!
---- Touch the stove.
Stinger: Just as I thought...
This is...HOT! OUUUUUCH!
---- Check the glass fronted case by the door.
Stinger: A few books here...let's see...'Imaginary Neutrino Meta-Arcs'
'Whole Number Hyper-Analysis' 'Cold Fusion Home Applications'
He obviously has a layman's grasp of science...
---- Check the left hand wall.
o-------------------------o
| Tolenarch Solenoid (TM) |
| Energy range converter |
| Eyre Industries |
o-------------------------o
---- Check the small table.
Stinger: Just one small photo here...of a huge gear assembly...?! This guy's
a real piece of work.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Blacksmith's Shop
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Exactly as described. A forge and a blacksmith, and a dog too.
At the back of the shop is a chest: Abran's lunch.
---- Check the back of the forge.
Stinger: This looks like a handy...uh...thingy.
---- Speak to the blacksmith.
Abran: Howdy! Welcome to the foundry!
Windleaf: What an amazing place you have here!
Abran: Well, thanks! I like to think so.
Stinger: Those are some pretty wicked looking swords there.
Abran: Just so happens I have some stuff for sale. Take a look!
------------
Second Visit: After the Council Meeting, and revisiting the Hall of Wisdom.
------------
Abran: Whew...what a day...Sometimes I hate this job...
Stinger: What's the matter?
Abran: Well, if you must know, I'm kind if up against it.
I've been slaving away, trying to put a siege engine together...a
rush order, and the customer is a jerk!
Stinger: Siege engine, huh? What for?
Abran: Jeez...where have you been? Something is blocking the way into the
Gogarin Keep!
So far it has resisted all efforts to smash it...
Stinger: Well, a siege engine should do it, right?
Abran: Well, it's anyone's guess at this point...
The worst thing is that Angus, my dog, is sick...I just can't
concentrate unless Angus is at my side.
Windleaf: Perhaps I can help...
---- Windleaf walks to Angus and casts healing spell.
o----------------o
| Angus is well! |
o----------------o
Abran: Hey! You're a mage!
Windleaf: Well...not really...I mean, I'm not trained or anything...
Abran: I used to be just like you! See, my parents sent me off to study
with the Magi...but it kind of backfired on me...
I almost blew up the whole class, including my master! I learned
that I'm not really mage material.
Windleaf: Well, I'm not either!
Stinger: Hmmm...
Say...maybe your training wasn't all for naught. Maybe we CAN do
something about whatever it is that's blocking the Gogarin Keep...
Abran: You mean...my old blast spell? But...but I don't have the mojo
anymore! Coming from me the spell would be useless!
Stinger: Perhaps...But...what if you taught it to Windleaf? She might just
have the juice!
Harv-5: Magic. What an enigma. I would like to observe.
Abran: Uh, well, sure! It's worth a try! Here are my quadra-grams on the
spell...Should be all you need!
o---------------------o
| Windleaf learns the |
| Spell of Shatter |
o---------------------o
Windleaf: This seems pretty straightforward...I sure hope it works!
Abran: Me too! It'd make all my wasted years of study worth the while!
Stinger: Thanks! We'll let you know how it turns out!
Abran: Good luck to you all.
Harv-5: Not a moment to lose...to the Council!
(After this scene the group are back in the Council Offices)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Dung Merchant: Dung Merchant, Rose, Hope.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: there are three people here and a pile of steaming dung.
---- Speak to the man in red.
Stinger: Wheeeeeew! That's one enormous stench!
Dung
Merchant: You don't say? Sniff sniff...Why...
I wonder if it hasn't something to do with all this DUNG?! Of
course it stinks in here!
Can't say I notice it, much, these days, at least.
Harv-5: There is an unusually high concentration of spores in the air
here...they could be mildly...
...hallucinogenic...
Stinger: I guess there's an upside to your vocation after all...!
Dung
Merchant: I wouldn't know! I'm just happy to be here!
---- Speak to him again.
Dung
Merchant: Don't mind the deadly vapours!
---- Speak to the fair haired child in the green dress.
Rose: Hi!
Windleaf: Hello there!
Rose: What does your machine do?
Harv-5: I am a Harvester Mark 5 agricultural robot, miss.
Rose: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh! It talks!
Stinger: Yeah...all day long...
Rose: Neat! My daddy was gonna buy a robot once. It was too expensive
though.
Stinger: Hey, Harv-5! Just think...You could've been shovelling dung all
this time!
Harv-5: Preferable, perhaps, to my time spent with you.
Stinger: Take it easy, barrel-belly...
Rose: I'm going to get a robot when I grow up. Her name will be Twinkles!
Harv-5: I'm sure twinkles will be very happy. You will be a fine robot
owner, miss.
Rose: Thanks! Will you come over and play with Twinkles?
Harv-5: Indeed.
Rose: Yippee!
Stinger: I hate to break this up, but time's a tickin'...
Rose: G'bye!
---- Speak to her again.
Rose: Hi! I'm saving my allowance to buy Twinkles!
---- Speak to the woman in a blue dress.
Hope: I'm Hope.
Stinger: Hope...how fitting...I guess you'd have to have a lot of that to
live around this...bouquet for any length of time!
Hope: Oh, not if you're with a man like mine!
Stinger: Just as long as he he cleans under his fingernails...
Hope: Have a nice day, kids.
Windleaf: Same to you.
---- Speak to her again.
Hope: It's good to see you again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Clara's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: a long room, with table and chairs at the far end, a cat and a
vigorous old lady dressed in pale blue.
Clara: Oh, my soul! It's the Herkimer Triplets!
Stinger: Sorry, madam. We're not the Herkimer triplets.
Clara: Oh? Well, you're too tall to be the Bingham's Midgets!
Windleaf: We're travellers from the Homelands.
My name is Windleaf, this is Stinger, and that's Harv-5.
Clara: Oh, my! You simply must be actors with names like that!
Harv-5: Actors?
Clara: Good for you! I was quite the actress in my day, you know.
Stinger: You think my name's funny?
Clara: Funny? Oh, no!
It's a catchy name, is what it is! I'd keep it!
Might catch a nice filly with a name like that!
Stinger: You might be on to something, there.
Clara: So, young actors! Come to Karillon to find fame?
Windleaf: Er...not exactly...
Clara: It'll be hard, now that opera's the rage. Plays just don't pull in
the crowds anymore...
Windleaf: Oh, I'd love to see an opera!
Stinger: I'd just as soon enjoy a festering wound...
Give me a good old chorus line any day!
Clara: That's the spirit, boyo! You remind me of an old beau...My, he was
a firebrand! Quite a hunk, too...and a magician!
Windleaf: Really? I know some spells myself.
Clara: Not his kind, honey...trust me...But be sure and work your tricks
into your act!
I always liked magic shows...Must be why I fell for...now what was
his name...
Ah! Damon! Yes, Damon Hokum was his name...!
Stinger: Never heard of him.
Clara: Oh, his career was pretty short. Just as he was beginning to make a
name for himself...
Windleaf: Yes?
Clara: He disappeared, right during one of his acts!
Windleaf: Mm...it's tragic when magic goes bad.
Clara: Me, I went on the road with the follies trying to escape my broken
heart...Oh, lordy...still hurts...
And that, as they say, was that!
Windleaf: What a sad tale...
Stinger: Say, kids...Time to exit, stage right...
Clara: Young folks! Always on the go! It was nice meeting you, kids...
Knock 'em dead!
---- Speak to her again.
Clara: When it's tough, remember...The show must go on!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Danl's Curiosities
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This is a small shop with a lot of useless items on shelves.
---- Check the shelves.
Stinger: What an amazing assortment of goodies...this guy's obviously been
pilfering garbage cans for years!
---- Speak to Danl.
Danl: Well, what have we here...? Just rolled in off the barley cart, eh?
If you haven't any money, then SCAT!
Stinger: Ah! Service with a smile!
Danl: Well, get on with it! What are you here for?
Windleaf: That depends on what you have. If it's junk...
Danl: Junk? JUNK? Ooh, I hate it when someone says that! These items
are treasures! See for yourselves!
---- Shop options appear.
Danl: Before you go...I have a proposition for you.
Stinger: For...me?
Danl: Don't be smart. For all of you.
I think you youngsters are gonna go places. Big places...Places
that hold great rewards! If you catch my drift...
Harv-5: Humans that speak in riddles should be subject to spontaneous
combustion.
Danl: Look. Folks like you need to diversify...It's a New World, you
know!
Windeleaf: Diversify...?
Stinger: 'Folks like us...'
Danl: You know. Broaden your horizons! Keep your eggs in more than one
basket!
Harv-5: We're reasonably ova-free, sir.
Danl: Someone put a puzzle on that thing...Right, here's what I'm getting
at...
Stinger: At long last...Keerg's blood...the suspense...the suspense...
Danl: I'll sell you my business for the fair sum of, oh say...5,000 coins!
Whaddya say?
Yes
No
---- Select no.
Danl: Well, think it over! Opportunities like this won't be around
forever!
---- Speak to him again.
Danl: So...change your mind about buying the store?
---- Yes/No.
Select No.
Danl: Well, the offer still stands.
How'd you like to spend some cash on these fine items?
---- Select Yes.
Danl: You won't be sorry! From now on, this place will be...Stinger's
Curiosities! Great tax shelter for you, too.
Stinger: As in...we get to write off the tremendous yearly losses?
Danl: Don't be so negative. I'll keep the place going until I can hire a
replacement clerk, okay?
Stinger: Sounds like a plan. Keep your fingers out of the till, okay?
Danl: Go, go! Make a name for yourselves. It's good advertising!
---- Speak to him again.
Danl: We're temporarily closed to take inventory. WE'll be up and running
soon!
---- Check the stuff by the door.
Stinger: What an amazing assortment of goodies...this guy's obviously been
pilfering garbage cans for years!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Inn of the Gallant Stag
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The entrance hall has stairs going up to the left and a door ahead
that leads into the barn.
-----------
First Visit
-----------
Dirkk: So! Will you be checking in?
Windleaf: Checking in?
Dirkk: Yes...softest beds in town!
Windleaf: Gracious!
Stinger: Come on, Windleaf! Haven't you ever stayed at an inn?
Windleaf: Well...no...I mean, there was the spa in Enclaan, but...I never
needed to SLEEP there...
Dirkk: What a riot you are, dear. Let me explain.
For a small fee, I let people stay in my beds.
Clean sheets! Quiet rooms! Sanitised for your protection!
Windleaf: How...comforting...
Dirkk: No eating in bed, though. Drives the rodents into a frenzy...
Stinger: Isn't this gonna be fun...
Dirkk: We have one room! It's only 100G!
Yes
No
---- Select No. Select Yes and he says "Sleep well!"
Dirkk: Then you need to sleep in the stable! It's through that door!
---- They automatically walk into the stable and bed down for the night.
---- Stinger will then be shown walking out of the stable or bedroom.
**** What follows is the same where-ever you decided to sleep.
Stinger: (Can't sleep...Going nuts in here...)
(Gotta get some fresh air...)
---- He moves automatically to the pub.
Setting: Stinger is sitting at the bar talking to the barman. This is the
same scene that appeared in the introduction to the events of the
game.
Duffy: Hey, these cats are pretty hip tonight! You gonna take a turn on
the stage?
Stinger: Nah...I'm not much for poetry...Especially bad poetry...
If it's okay, I'd just like to hang out for a while...
Duffy: Yeah, sure...no sweat...
Say, weren't you with that group that came in from the Homelands?
Stinger: Yes...
Duffy: Tough luck...Not much left there, from what I hear. What the heck
happened, anyway?
Stinger: Well...it all started this morning...I was just coming back from...
---- Screen goes black as Stinger tells his story.
Stinger: ...and then Karillon was just over the hill. We'd made it...
Duffy: Keerg's bones! What an awful story. Amazing you even survived!
Stinger: You know I think I'm finally ready to hit the hay...
Good night...and thanks for listening.
Duffy: No sweat, kid...you go get some sleep. Everything will be okay.
You'll see!
Stinger: Yeah...I guess so...
---- Stinger automatically returns to the Inn.
---- The next morning they are all awake and up.
Windleaf: You were restless last night. Did you get much sleep?
Stinger: No, not much.
Continue/Save/Quit.
Setting: Barn with a number of stalls.
---- Approach the black doors on the bottom stable and a someone speaks.
Voice: AAACK!!! This is MY stall! Go and find your own!
---- After sleeping in the room or stable and re-entering.
Stable
Boy: Oy! You folks need to put up a mount?
Stinger: Actually...um...we're here to spend the night.
Stable
Boy: I don't think so...not with a purse as full as yours! Go stay in
the inn, ya cheap twits!
Stinger: But...
Stable
Boy: Don't "But..." me! Get outta here!
-------
Revisit
-------
Dirkk: Good to see you!
We have a vacancy...Want it?
Yes/No
Select No.
Dirkk: Very well...Gonna be booked solid pretty soon, though.
Select yes, and automatically go upstairs.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Traylor's Speedy Mart:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: a counter and a woman in blue, and a man in purple.
---- Speak to the woman.
Mrs.
Traylor: Look at him over there...thinks he's such a businessman.
Ha! I can tell ya there ain't much there!
---- Speak to the shopkeeper.
Traylor: Hey there, travellers. Can I help you?
Windleaf: What do you...sell here, sir?
Traylor: Sir? Did you say, 'Sir?' Only my wise calls me that, lady.
The name's Traylor! I sell the best stuff in Karillon. Care to
check it out?
---- Yes/No. Select no.
Traylor: Well, suit yourself folks...You won't find better products anywhere!
---- Speak to him again.
Traylor: Can I help you?
---- Shop options appear.
Mrs.
Traylor: Hey, thanks for droppin' by!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Chef Croquer's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: a single round room with a table in the centre where Croquer, a pretty
young female chef, is preparing food.
Croquer: Hullo there! Come for some bread?
Stinger: No, we're okay there.
Croquer: How about some pastries?
Windleaf: No, thanks.
Croquer: Biscuits?
Havr-5: Negative.
Croquer: Hmmm...well, then you must be here about...
...the JOB!
Windleaf: Job...?
Harv-5: At what...rate of pay, madam?
Croquer: We'll get to that later...Ready to start?
Yes/No.
Croquer: Oh goody! First we'll be making our famous fruitcake. It's
verbally abused, you know!
Stinger: Beg pardon?
Croquer: The trick is the kind of verbal abuse you heap on the fruit. It has
to be shocking!
Windleaf: You've got to be joking!
Croquer: I never joke.
Well, listen and learn: 'You CENSORED, CENSORED son of a CENSORED,
CENSORED brain dead CENSORED...
Stinger: Whoa! She swears worse than my Uncle Johann!
Croquer: ...mother of a CENSORED, CENSORED illegitimate CENSORED, CENSORED
candy-CENSORED, CENSORED!!!'
Windleaf: Great Keerg! That was disgusting!
Stinger: That was amazing!
Croquer: Yes, and just look at my fruit now!
Harv-5: There is... no change in your 'fruit' madam.
Windleaf: Stinger...Harv-5..There's something wrong with her...she's like Mr.
Nakar, my old neighbour in Enclaan...
I mean, she's supposed to be a famous bakery chef and all. Just
listen to her!
Stinger: Either that or she's into some kind of New Age baking or
something...
Harv-5: Negative. She is showing signs of stress, signs of illness.
Croquer: My cake will last indefinitely without refrigeration!
Stinger: I always wondered about those holiday fruit cakes. Now the secret
is out...
Croquer: You'll have to leave now. I'm very busy...catering for the end of
the world, you know!
Windleaf: End of the...Oh, my. She's gone.
Stinger: Definitely.
Croquer: Since you've been good workers, I'd like to give you this!
o--------------------o
| Party received: |
| Bistro Guest Pass |
o--------------------o
Croquer: That will give you a meal at the Bistro, on the house!
Harv-5: What is this...Bistro?
Croquer: Why, it's simply the swankiest eatery in all the land! I should
know...I work there, too!
Harv-5: Thank you for the warning, madam...
Croquer: Eh?!
Windleaf: Thanks, Chef Croquer. We'll be going now!
Croquer: Don't bump your head on the way out!
Stinger: Bump it? On what?
Croquer: On the abyss, dear, the abyss!
---- Speak to her again.
Croquer: Ah! My star pupils!
---- Check the stove.
Stinger: Yiii! Why would anyone boil socks?
---- Check the top corner.
o----------------------o
| Brackish water with |
| mosquito larvae |
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Chambermaid's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: a large room with a table, couch and chairs and two children.
Hortense is a plump woman in green. She speaks as soon as you enter.
Hortense: My, my! What a bunch you are!
Stinger: You don't say.
Hortense: My name is Hortense.
Zed: Oy! I'm Zed! that wooden guy looks dumb!
Harv-5: I'm only minimally made of wood.
Ned: Hullo. I'm Ned. I know what else yer made of! Ha, ha!
Hortense: Ssh, sweetums! I'm talking with the nice folks!
Zed: I wanna drink! I wanna drink now!
Ned: Something...smells! I think it's Zed!
Hortense: Ssh! Stop that at once!
Now, what brings you to the City, folks?
Stinger: Bad things...
Hortense: Dear me! Do tell...But if it's really bad, tell me quietly, so the
children won't get spooked!
Stinger: Well, all right...
It all started...(Murmur murmur...) And then I met up with...
(Murmur murmur...) And that's how we got here!
Hortense: Keerg's dongles!
Oh, pardon me...!
Zed: Ha! You said a funny!
I need to go to bafroom. I need to go NOW!
Hortense: Children, hush or I'll lock you in the loo again!
So many strange rumours flying around...they say even the Knights
have been acting odd...
Windleaf: Knights? The Gogarin Knights?
Hortense: When I was...er, dusting the mayor's ottoman, shall we say, I heard
him tell the Captain that the Knights had barricaded the doors to
the Keep!
Harv-5: For what purpose?
Hortense: You have to wonder, don't you? They weren't making any sense.
Look, I really should be getting back to my chores...
Stinger: Thanks for your time.
Hortense: You take care now!
---- Speak to her again, three times for more chat.
Hortense: A friend of my sister who knows the High Sage says that demons might
be loose!
I don't know, but I've been told...madness stalks the land!
I hear that the Diva's got a new beau...in Oldtowne! Scandalous,
isn't it?
Ned: My daddy could beat you up!
Zed: I'm hungry. Gimme a snack!
---- Check the oven.
Stinger: Mmmm...Someone's roasting Gnagg roots!
---- Go upstairs and in the first room to check the bed.
Stinger: One of the finest stain-hiding bedspreads I've ever seen...
---- Check the chest in the next room.
Stinger: Looks like one of the kids has stuffed all of his "Kii Nee Babies
(TM)" in here...
...including Draco (TM)...tags are still on too...gonna be worth a
fortune some day...
---- Speak to the child.
DeWitt: Hullo.
Stinger: Hey, kid. How's it going?
DeWitt: I don't like it here. I wanna go home!
Windleaf: What's wrong?
DeWitt: It's not like Port Lochane here. Zed and Ned are mean to me. I
hate this place!
Stinger: You're from Port Lochane...?
DeWitt: Uh, huh. My mum sent me to live with Aunt Hortense for the summer.
Stinger: Oh...um...Well, I'm from Lochane, too! I like it here!
DeWitt: You do?
Stinger: Sure, kid! There's lots to do here. You like to play stickball?
DeWitt: Yeah...
Stinger: Well, the monks at the Sanctuary run a Kids' League. I'll bet if
you talk to them they'd let you join up.
DeWitt: Cool! Thanks, mister.
Stinger: Don't mention it. Keep your chin up, okay?
DeWitt: Sure. See ya!
---- Speak to him again.
DeWitt: I like to make toy soldiers. You want me to make some that look
like you?
Stinger: That'd be great, kid.
DeWitt: Sweeeeeeeet! I'll give them great action features!
---- Go back downstairs and speak again to Hortense for more gossip.
Hortense: The knights killed Lord Kenneth...those mongrels!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Blue Door Pub
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: the location from the start of the game. A large bar with many tables
and some customers.
Stinger: You guys are gonna love this place!
Windleaf: ...*gag*...What IS that awful smell? ...*urp*...
Harv-5: It is a brewed beverage composed of water, flavourings, grains,
hops, and the excretions of micro-organisms.
Windleaf: Beverage? People drink such swill?
Stinger: Swill?! Hey, now!
Harv-5: Several of my owners used to consume such beverages.
It made them banter in a most peculiar fashion. It was amusing.
Stinger: Yeah? Yet you make it sound so clinical...
---- Their presence is noticed by the barman, Duffy.
Duffy: YOU! get outta my place and don't show your sorry keester in here
again!
Stinger: Huh? Me? What'd I do?!?
Duffy: I ain't talk' to you, you son of a sailor, or the fair lady...
Stinger: Huh?!
Duffy: I'm talkin' ta YOU, barrel boy!
Leif: Now what do you suppose that five on his chest means?
McKee: Sure ain't his IQ...Then things are way too smart...Got an agenda,
they do...
Becker: I think the Gadgeteers are up to something!
Donaghue: And I think this thing is a spy...or worse...
Harv-5: I will egress.
Duffy: Oh no you don't! You're gonna get outta here!
Becker: No, wait a sec, Duff...Let him have his drink...
McKee: Yeah, maybe we can find out what makes him tick!
Leif: Do it for he City! Come on, Duff!
Duffy: Oh...all right...I'll serve the blasted barrel...but it better not
elope with one of me kegs!
---- Speak to everyone in turn. McKee to the right of the bar, Becker by
the pool table, Donaghue and Leif at the left side of the bar.
McKee: Greetings!
Stinger: Greetings yourself.
McKee: You heard the news?
Stinger: No...do tell.
McKee: The Mayor's thinkin' about reinstating the draft! We might be goin'
to war!
Stinger: War? With whom?
McKee: Get this...the Gogarin Knights! Scary, eh?
Stinger: What? You must be mistaken!
McKee: Nope. I hope me bum leg keeps me out of it.
---- Speak to him again.
McKee: Watch out for press gangs!
Becker: New around here, eh?
Stinger: That's right.
Becker: Well, at least you hang out in classy places! Ha! I love it!
---- Speak to him again.
Becker: Still here? Yer braver than I thought! Ha!
Donaghue: Whadda you want, eh?
Stinger: Just passing through...
Donaghue: Best be keepin' outta trouble! You know what I do to hooligans on
MY watch?
Stinger: No idea...What?
Donaghue: I cuff 'em.
Stinger: Uh huh...
Donaghue: ...and stuff 'em! Deep in the hoosegow! Har har!
Stinger: Er...We'll keep that in mind, sir.
Donaghue: Respect for authority. Someone taught you punks well!
---- Speak to him again.
Donaghue: You punks better not be up to anything, hear?
Leif: How goes it, mate?
Stinger: I've had better days. And you?
Leif: Lousy! I'm a wagon driver for a merchant caravan. With the Keep
blocked we can't get to the valley. We're stuck like pigs in a
pokey!
Stinger: Well, keep the faith!
Leif: Easy for you to say!
---- Speak to him again.
Leif: Hope that blockade clears before too long!
Duffy: Hope ya finally got some sleep, kid.
Stinger: Thanks, I did. i guess I just needed to be around people last
night...
Duffy: After what you've been through, I'm not surprised.
Just a word to the wise...don't ever turn yer back on yer robot.
The Gadgeteers are up to something...no telling what it is...
Now, what'll it be?
o----------------------o
| Light Beer.....10 |
| Regular Beer...25 |
| Strong Beer....50 |
| None for me, thanks! |
o----------------------o
SELECT Light Beer.
Stinger: Urrp. Tastes like swill.
Duffy: Well, what'd you expect?
SELECT Regular Beer
Stinger: Whoa. that's pretty stout stuff!
Duffy: Me own special vintage, that.
SELECT Strong Beer.
Stinger: Cough cough! Wheeew! That'll put hair on your palms!
Duffy: Har har! You'd best stick to the weaker stuff!
SELECT None for me thanks.
Duffy: Lightweights...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Guardhouse
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Lots of narrow beds and three guards.
Ziggy: Hey...you guys here to join up? We could use the help!
Stinger: Join up? No, I don't think so.
Yuri: It was just a thought. How 'bout you honey?
Windleaf: Nope, not interested.
Yuri: How about this, then...
I get off duty in an hour, and, well, I can show ya a good time!
Windleaf: Um...well. I'm flattered, but...
Stinger: Now just a darn minute...
Xavier: Put a sock in it, kid!
Yuri: C'mon, toots! I know a great place...We could have dinner...
Xavier: Hooo weee! Got a sister, honey?
Stinger: Windleaf! Get rid of these losers!
Windleaf: No, I'm an only child...but my pal Stinger here might be interested!
Xavier: Ola! Ain't goin' there, honey. Never mind...
Stinger: Cute, Windleaf...Very cute...
Windleaf: Hee hee hee!
Ziggy: Hey! Quit jawin' you clowns! If we don't get this place clean,
we're on report!
Xavier: Yes, sir!
Yuri: Duty calls...Better luck next time, sugar!
---- Speak to them all again.
Xavier: Man, I hate cleaning the barracks!
Ziggy: You can help if you want!
Yuri: Let me do my job in peace!
---- Go to the far left end wall and examine the box in the corner.
o-----------------------------------o
| Military Issue Rations (MIR) |
| Contains: dried meat by products, |
| dried vegetable matter and dried |
| water. |
o-----------------------------------o
o-------------------------------------------o
| Prepare only with sufficient ventilation. |
| Contact physician immediately if spilled |
| on skin or splashed in eyes. |
| Warning: consume immediately after |
| reconstituting. |
o-------------------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. Karl the Kept Man's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A square room with a part chequerboard floor and with one man and a
picture on the wall.
--- Check the picture and the shelf.
o-------------- ---o
| The Happy Camper |
| By Kenneth Lam |
o------------------o
Stinger: Good gods above...this guy is absolutely meticulous. Not a crumb in
sight.
You could eat off the floor in here...or play a rousing game of
chess...
---- Speak to the man.
Karl: Gracious! Burglars! Don't hurt me, I surrender!
Stinger: We're NOT burglars!
Karl: Well...then you're a press gang! Come to take me away to the army,
eh?
Windleaf: No, we're not here to hurt you or rob you or anything else like
that!
Karl: Well, you certainly look like it! All those weapons...armour...and
that...that...horrible Gadgeteer thing!
Stinger: It's called a robot.
Harv-5: Please forgive my...fearsome appearance.
Stinger: Haaaa! Ha ha ha! 'Fearsome'...Hee hee!
Windleaf: Shh!
Karl: Well...all right then...What do you want?
Stinger: Can you tell us where the captain's office is?
Karl: It's in Middletowne! Country bumpkins! Go back to your fields!
Your hoes and seeds...
---- Speak to him again.
Karl: You again? Don't you hooligans have something better to do?
Stinger: I suppose so. Thanks for your...kindness.
------------
Second Visit: After visiting The Diva
------------
Karl: You again? Don't you hooligans have something better to do?
Stinger: As a matter of fact, yes. Still, we came here to give this to you.
o-------------------o
| Stinger gives the |
| letter to Karl. |
o-------------------o
Karl: Sweet divinity! My prayers have been answered. O joyous day!
Stinger: Wow. You can smile. Figured you might have forgotten how.
Karl: Eh? Oh, never mind! All is right in the world, now that SHE has
written!
Stinger: Wish it was that easy!
Karl: Here! Take this message to her AT ONCE!
o----------------o
| Received: |
| Letter to Diva |
o----------------o
Stinger: You had this ready?! Talk about a prompt reply...
Karl: She expects it. Who am I to refuse a goddess?
Stinger: Right. We'll get it to her right away.
Karl: See to it that you do! Good day!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Middletowne Locations 0033
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The middle level has various places of interest, such as the library, the
captain's office, an old people's home, and various shops. The locations are
listed from the bottom left of the path to the top right.
1. Guild Hall
2. Armour Masters
3. State Nursing Home
4. Martine's Fine Weapons
5. Elysium Goods
6. Grisham's House
7. Hall of Wisdom
8. Danjell Art Gallery
9. Captain's Willis's House
10. Municipal Accounting
11. Skyway
-----------------------------------------------
People in the Street: Bogard, Gahhk, and Loytyr
-----------------------------------------------
Bogard is oppostie the entrance to Middletowne, Gahhk is a thin faced man in
red. Loytyr is a woman in green.
Bogard: Be advised. We of the town militia frown on delinquent behaviour.
Stinger: What's your point?
Bogard: Simple. Break the law, and we'll break you. Savvy?
Stinger: We're the least of your worries. But, thanks for the tip anyway.
Bogard: Have a nice day citizen.
---- Speak to him again.
Bogard: Don't give any handouts to mimes. They're a sneaky lot...Up to no
good. They sully the park with their presence!
Stinger: Hi!
Gahhk: Talk to the guilders if you want work. You'll get no handouts from
me!
Stinger: Quite a view, huh?
Loytyr: Go back to the farm! Stupid rubes!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Guild Hall
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Four people are talking in a hut with a fireplace. Two men and two
women.
Mason: Here's to the militia! I just got a contract to build siege walls!
Carpenter: I'm working on fortifications...Can't hire enough helpers! Keerg's
blood, I love these wars!
Jeweler: Humph! Wars! The only allocations I'm getting will be used to make
war medals...hmm.
Here's to all those budding war heroes out there! Ha ha!
Plumber: Life is tough, huh...I spend every day snaking out the pipes of
those bozos in Hightowne.
Jeweler: So what? You're a plumber, right?
Plumber: Yeah, but jeez! You oughta see what those idiots try to flush!
Mason: Look! Farmers...or something!
Carpenter: You there...The kid, girl and...thing.
Mason: This is a member's only club! No Gadgeteer junk allowed!
Jeweler: Unless...you're here to apply for the dishwasher job! Ha ha ha!
Stinger: I'll give you something to wash..
Windleaf: Stinger! It's not worth it, my friend. We don't have to prove
anything to them.
Stinger: Yeah. Yeah, you're right Windleaf. Let's go...
---- Speak to each one in turn.
Mason: Didn't you hear me? Members only!
Jeweler: You're a little grubby to be jeweler apprentices.
Carpenter: Sorry, I don't have any positions open.
Plumber: Sorry, I already have an apprentice.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Armour Masters
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Wooden armour shop with a woman behind a counter and bald headed man.
Pietro: Omygawd! Just look at our latest customers!
Gus: Good grief! What ghastly attire!
Pietro: Darlings, you simply MUST purchase some new duds. We won't take no
for an answer!
Stinger: ...
Pietro: Okay, troops...Fall in!
Stinger: Excuse me?
Pietro: Tch! Obviously never seen soldiers in formation.
Gus: Obviously. Tch!
Pietro: Form a line, please.
Stinger: All right, I'm game. Let's do what the nice maniac says, people...
---- They automatically move into a line.
Gus: Ready to take notes, boss!
Pietro: All righty. then. Here we go, dears!
---- She goes up the line, starting with Stinger, then Windleaf and Harv.
Pietro: Something in blue, I think...yes. Perhaps scarlet, or sea-foam
green...! Definitely avoid pinks!
Gus: Check!
Pietro: Oh, green is so YOU! And what a figure...Tch! I'm just SO jealous!
Gus: She's so elegant!
Pietro: I love you just the way you are, honey.
Gus: Why mess with perfection?
Pietro: Touche'!
Pietro: Oh, dear.
Gus: Quite a challenging figure!
Pietro: Yes...Hmmm...EUREKA!
Gus: Yes?
Pietro: ACCESSORIES! That's what you need! Forget the clothes...
Gus: Accessories only! What a stroke of genius!
Harv-5: I have no need for clothing. No modesty to preserve.
Gus: Oh, my! What a forceful thing you are! So full of confidence!
Stinger: He's full of something all right.
Pietro: Come, come now darlings! No fighting! Why don't you take a look at
our wares?
---- The Warrior's Tailor's inventory will then appear.
Pietro: Come back any time!
Gus: Good luck in your travels!
---- Speak to them again.
Pietro: Hello, darlings! See anything you like?
Gus: Come again!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. State Nursing Home
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The ground floor of the home, with an old man, someone in what
appears to be a suit of armour and a young fair haired nurse in a purple dress.
Nurse: Hello there.
---- They automatically walk towards the nurse at the far end of the
room.
Stinger: Hi.
Harv-5 What is the purpose of this place?
Nurse: We take care of the elderly here. Most of them used to be...um...
...adventurers for the government.
Windleaf: How interesting!
Nurse: Yes. They're heroes, one and all.
Stinger: Can we talk to 'em?
Nurse: Certainly! They'd love the company. Just...try not to agitate
them, please.
Windleaf: We'll be very careful.
Nurse: Thanks!
---- Speak to her again.
Nurse: Who knows? You might retire here too!
---- Speak to the white haired man near the entrance.
Ole Moon: Hot diggity! A fine young filly!
Windleaf: ...
Ole Moon: C'mere and give us a kiss!
Windleaf: Certainly not!
Ole Moon: Oho! So it's the chase, is it? I may be old, but I can still move!
Tally ho!
Windleaf: Eee! Stop!
---- She walks away.
Windleaf: I don't want to hurt you...
--- Ole Moon follows her.
Ole Moon: Wheeeeee! Gonna getcha!
Windleaf: Stinger! Do something!
--- She continues walking away and Ole Moon continues to follow her.
Stinger: Ha ha ha! C'mon, he's practically falling apart! You can handle
him!
Nurse: All right. That's enough!
Ole Moon: Yeeeee! It's the Dungeon Mistress. Run fer the hills!
---- He returns to his position near the entrance.
Windleaf: Thank you!
Nurse: Don't mention it.
---- Speak to Ole Moon again.
Ole Moon: Ever tell ya about the time I raised giant chickens?
---- Speak to the person in the suit of armour.
George: Greetings, young warriors.
Stinger: Hey there, old timer.
George: You have the look of adventurers. Are you on a quest?
Windleaf: Not exactly...well, sort of...It's hard to explain.
George: It usually is! I remember the hunt for the Oolian pirates. What a
mess!
Stinger: Well, we're in a mess too. Someone or something is wiping places
off the map.
George: Sounds like you could use a little help. A seasoned veteran...like
me!
Windleaf: Uh...oh.
George: Yes! I'll join you. One last crusade against the darkness!
Harv-5: We appreciate the offer, but...
George: We're wasting time! Come, warriors! We ride...tonight!
Stinger: I don't think he's taking no for an answer...
o----------------------------------o
| Sir George has joined the party! |
o----------------------------------o
George: Now, my young allies...Let evil quiver in fear at the very mention
of our name!
Stinger: Um...
George: Let it be known that there are people who are not content to sit and
hide while dark forces ravage the land!
Windleaf: Sir George...really...
George: Be at ease, girl. Our moment of glory awaits!
---- The nurse walks over to the group.
Nurse: A-hem!
George: Zounds! The sentinel has spotted us! Quickly! Flee her pulsating
tentacles!
Nurse: That's enough of that. Sir George. Please settle down...or you
won't get any pudding.
George: Viper! Take my pudding, I care not!
Nurse: It's keegleroot...
George: Oh? My favourite...! I admit defeat. I must remain, young
warriors. Good luck to you!
o-------------------------------------------o
| With regret, Sir George leaves the party. |
o-------------------------------------------o
Stinger: Perhaps another time, Sir George!
---- Speak to him again.
George: Psst...soon I'll escape! Duty calls!
---- Check the chest under the stairs.
---- It's a chest. Open top drawer? Yes/No
o---------------------------------o
| Fur balls, marbles, hard candy, |
| and back issues of |
| 'Oh, These Golden Years!' |
o---------------------------------o
---- Go upstairs. Go left and look at the picture.
o-------------------------o
| Curtis With Sun Flowers |
| |
| By Van Gone |
o-------------------------o
---- Speak to the old lady.
Senile
Valkyrie: Curtis! Oh, my! It's Curtis!
Stinger: Huh? I think you're mistaken...
Senile
Valkyrie: I don't know you, or the girl, but I know my Curtis!
Windleaf: Pssst! I think she means you, Harv-5.
Harv-5: I am not Curtis.
Senile
Valkyrie: Don't be silly, Curtis! You were born in Chiore...oh, when was it?
Harv-5: Actually, I was assembled in Eyre in year 410.
Stinger: Wow! that was like...Forty or so years ago. Boy are you an old
mother...
Harv-5: 44 years, to be exact.
Senile
Valkyrie: Well, it doesn't matter! You've come home to me, Curtis!
Stinger: Well, 'Curtis'...? Got an explanation?
Windleaf: Perhaps this ties into your past?
Harv-5: I assure you, I am not Curtis.
Senile
Valkyrie: Well! I should think I'd recognise my second husband! Stop this
silliness. Curtis!
Stinger: Husband?! Ha ha ha ha! ALl right, buddy, let's hear it!
Windleaf: Ma'am...Harv-5 is a robot...a device...you know, like a farm tool...
Senile
Valkyrie: Oh, yes, yes my Curtis was amazing! But hurtful, too!
Come back when you've decided to behave, Curtis!
---- Speak to her again.
Senile
Valkyrie: If you see my husband, Curtis, tell him I still feel for him...
---- Speak to the old man at the other end of the passage.
Insane
Mage: Kamaloo! Kamalai! Bongowong!
---- Speak to him again a few times.
Insane
Mage: Within the rotten core, an evil worm eats at the Apple of
Paradise!
Teachers can be poor learners.
Fear the false saviours.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Martine's Fine Weapons
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A weapon shop with a counter and a woman in blue.
---- Go right and check the sword.
o-----------------------o
| The Sword of Chastity |
o-----------------------o
---- Speak to Martine.
Martine: Welcome!
Stinger: Nice place you have here.
Martine: Thanks, stranger. Say...those are some crude weapons you have
there.
Harv-5: Perhaps. Still, they are functional and effective.
Stinger: Yeah! These work fine!
Martine: Against bunnies and wimps maybe. You need some real weapons, kids!
Take a look...
---- Martine's Weapons shop menu will then appear.
Martine: Drop in anytime.
---- Speak to her again.
Martine: Ready to play with the pros?
Take it easy out there!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Elysium Goods
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Another shop with a man in red behind a table. There are a couple of
pictures on the wall and some barrels.
Dane: Welcome of Elysium Goods. We specialize in the unusual and arcane.
All items are 100% curse-free.
Windleaf: That's comforting...
Dane: I see you have a robot there. Harvester series...very rare. Only 5
made, if I'm not mistaken. Looks like you have number 5!
Stinger: Yep! Say. what's he worth. anyway?
Dane: I daresay he's priceless.
Stinger: Excuse me?
Dane: Well, it's the last of the series, still in pretty good shape, it
seems...Way too rich for my blood.
Harv-5: Give me a figure. What is my worth?
Dane: Zounds! It speaks?!
Windleaf: Of course 'it' speaks.
Dane: Well it's the only one, then. The others had to be programmed by
hand.
Made 'em too tough for people to use on a day-to-day basis. You may
have the robot find of the century. I'm envious!
Stinger: Great Keerg, we're loaded!
Dane: Well, feel free to peruse my humble offerings.
---- Shop inventory is shown.
Dane: Drop in anytime. It's a pleasure to have met you!
---- Speak to him again.
Dane: Greetings, fellow artifact hunters! What business do you bring my
way?
Happy hunting!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Grishame's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A room with some pictures on the wall, a bottle on the windowsill and
a central stove. Grisham is a white haired elderly man.
---- Check the bottle.
o------------------------o
| Sandegal (R) |
| Siltherian Fortified |
| Tawny Port (200 proof) |
| Keep away from open |
| flames |
o------------------------o
Grishame: Ah! the Official Couriers for the Ruling COuncil! I have something
urgent to discuss with you!
Stinger: Who are you? How'd you know we're couriers?!
Grishame: In answer to your last question...let's just say I have friends in
high places.
Windleaf: And in answer to the first question?
Grishame: I'm a writer. But not just any writer! I can make you a household
name!
Harv-5: Just like a toilet cleanser or bleach product?
Grishame: Dear me, no!
Harv-5: You would prey on our pain and suffering?
Grishame: Nonsense, my wooden friend! I simply want to buy the right to your
story!
Stinger: Money? You'd pay us?
Grishame: Of course!
Stinger: Tell me more!
Grishame: I'm willing to pay you in instalments. All you need to do is drop
in from time to time...share your stories.
You tell me the tale, I'll write it up! It'll make a splendid book.
We'll all be rich!
What do you say?
Yes/No
---- Select No.
Grishame: Well please think it over. I may just write the story without you!
---- Speak to him again.
Grishame: Hello again! Change your mind about the book?
Yes/No.
#Options Select No.
Grishame: Terribly disappointing! Ah, well...you've work to do. Good
luck...Drop by it you change your mind!
##---- Select Yes
Grishame: Splendid! I'll get started at once. Here...here's a little
something...To seal the deal, you know!
o--------------------------o
| Party receives 100 gold. |
o--------------------------o
Grishame: Drop in when you get return from the Academy!
#---- Select Yes after first selecting No.
Grishame: Smart...you won't regret it! Here's a 100 coin advance.
o--------------------------o
| Party receives 100 gold. |
o--------------------------o
Grishame: Drop in when you get back from the Academy!
---- Speak to him again.
Grishame: Good to see you again! I'm working on our outline.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Hall of Wisdom
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A large room with bookshelves lining two walls and two floors high.
There is a large purple sphere in the centre of the room and a number of sages.
Three are men dressed on dark blue robes and there is a nun dressed in green.
High Sage: Good tidings, visitors.
Windleaf: I've never seen such a place!
High Sage: Well, my dear, our library is second to none!
If it's knowledge you seek, look no further.
Windleaf: Why...one could spend a lifetime here and still not touch half of
the books.
High Sage: Indeed! Many spend their lives here. Take me, for example...and my
aides.
We've devoted our lives to learning and recording the facts for
others.
It's our gift to the world!
Stinger: Ten years of school was enough for me! Can't imagine a minute more
...brrr!
Harv-5: There are many ways to learn. Books are but one. Experience is
another. ALl are valid.
High Sage: Those are wise words, friend.
Windleaf: May we look around?
High Sage: Certainly, my dear! Take all the time you need. We share
everything we have.
Information should be free, and available to all.
---- Speak to him again.
High Sage: For us, life ends when learning ceases. Complacency is sin...
Nepear: Hello travellers! Isn't this place splendid?
Alif: Hi. Enjoy your time in the House of Wisdom!
Geelee: O, to see the world outside the temple!
------------
Second Visit: After the meeting in the Council Offices.
-----------
High Sage: Greetings young Couriers. How may we help you?
Stinger: I don't know where to start...This situation...
I don't understand what's going on...
Windleaf: We're dealing with forces we can't understand.
Harv-5: I am in need of data. There are presently too many unknowns for me
to make sense of this situation.
High Sage: Easy, easy! One crisis at a time!
Stinger: Okay...Let's start with the Knights...What's up with them?
High Sage: No one is certain, but...
Windleaf: Go on...
High Sage: We have reason to believe that they've all gone quite insane. To
the last man.
Windleaf: We've seen others who have become...ill. But how is it happening?
High Sage: Well...this is only speculation, But...
All signs point to an event in our distant past.
An event surrounded by the darkest magic and great loss of life...
Most ancient books about it have been burned.
Stinger: Magic?! But...the only masters of magic are at the Magic Gyld.
They must be responsible somehow...!
High Sage: I strongly doubt that. The master there is an old friend. He'd
never allow evil to flourish...
No...this is an enigma form before recorded history...Long before...
Bad mojo never slumbers...it simply lies in ambush...
Windleaf: The Dark Wyrm...The Chaos Auruora...The Bogeyman...
High Sage: Most astute, young lady. Well known themes from children's nursery
rhymes...
Windleaf: And from our own ancient 'Kred-dhe,' or book of secrets...
High Sage: The ancient and universally held notion that something evil walks
among us...
Stinger: Hoo, boy...
High Sage: ...is based on certain events that took place in our distant past.
Because of these events, we still fear the darkness to this very
day...
It comes at night...We waken, hearts pounding.
Stinger: Some of us, anyway.
High Sage: It comes when we hear strange sounds...Turning, only to see our
shadows.
We have been conditioned by something that hunted us...and hurt us..
Windleaf: I'd say we're in danger once again. History repeats endlessly...
Harv-5: But history is not cyclic. Otherwise there would be no forward
momentum, no progress.
There is only a forward vector to life. We cannot 'remember' the
future, only the past.
High Sage: Not if you observe time ticking through a god's watch, my friend
...or a demon's for that matter.
Time may be 'happening' all at once, for all we know, like a wave
crashing on a shore.
Windleaf: Look...this isn't helping much...
Stinger: Yeah, let's not too get too carried away. All this philosophical
hogwash isn't getting us past the Keep, now is it?
Harv-5: Indeed. The doors are still blocked.
High Sage: Doors are blocked, eh? Fear not! Our best smith is working on it.
For someone who looks like an athletics coach, he's an amazing
engineer!
Stinger: An athletic engineer?
High Sage: Well, Abran has a high opinion of his skills. With good reason!
Visit him and you'll see. His shop is in Oldtowne.
Stinger: Maybe we can help him! I can't stand all this waiting around.
Windleaf: Thank you for your time, sir.
High Sage: Our doors are always open.
Stinger: C'mon, crew!
---- Speak to him again.
High Sage: May wisdom guide you in all your trials.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Danjell Art Gallery
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: surprisingly this is indeed an art gallery, with many pictures hanging
on the walls and a museum curator, a young artist called Danjell.
Danjell: Welcome to my museum. Stay away from the art. Have fun!
Stinger: I know my way around a gallery. Relax!
---- Danjell stands aside to let them go down the steps and into the main
hall to view the pictures.
Windleaf: These images...They're beautiful...
Danjell: Indeed. Only the finest art is shown here. We have our reputation,
you know.
Harv-5: The image lacks symmetry. The perspective is incorrect. The artist
must have been heavily intoxicated...
Stinger: Yeah! Like he said! What's it supposed to be?
Harv-5: A bowl of fruit, I believe. Square fruit.
Stinger: I don't get it.
Danjell: How droll...art critics from the barnyard...
Windleaf: Well, I think the art is wonderful.
Danjell: Many thanks, madam. If only your opinion were more...universal.
Stinger: Hey, Harv-5! Check it out! There are people in this one!
Harv-5: They look like distressed vegetation.
Danjell: Sigh...
Windleaf: There's no accounting for taste.
---- Speak to him again.
Danjell: Ah, the famous critics from the hinterlands! Be still my beating
heart.
---- Check out the large painting on the ground floor.
o-----------------------------o
| 'Fruit and Vegetable War' |
| by M. Scott (28BD - 2 BD) |
| Donated by I.B. Whyte, esq. |
o-----------------------------o
---- Go up the steps to the gallery.
o-----------------------------o
| 'Tortured Shades of Grey' |
| by S. Loo (312 AD - 342 AD |
| Donated by J.D> Brady |
o-----------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| 'Metal Gods of Rust and Doom' |
| by A, Yoder (404 - ) |
| Donated by Capt. T.C. Willis |
o-------------------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| 'Fluffy Kitties' |
| by A. Schaeffer (42 AD - 106 AD) |
| Donated by Mrs. Clara Woodruff |
o----------------------------------o
o-----------------------------------------o
| 'Hot and Sour Soup' |
| by J. Laurino the Younger (2AD - 18 AD) |
| Donated by the Hon. R. Silvera |
o-----------------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Captain's Willis's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A basic room with armour on a shelf, a blue picture, and the captain.
Captain
Willis: Can I help you?
Stinger: I sure hope so!
Captain
Willis: What's the problem?
Stinger: Several towns in the Homelands have been destroyed.
Windleaf: Enclaan, Port Lochane, and Barleygrove are all gone. Most of the
people are dead.
Harv-5: The enemy seems to have withdrawn.
Captain
Willis: Well...I've been hearing all kinds of odd reports, but you're the
first people I've been able to speak with.
None of our scouts have came back since we first heard of trouble.
Our caravans, too...all lost.
Windleaf: What have you found out about the Gogarins?
Captain
Willis: Damnedest thing. that. They've cut off all contact and open fire on
anyone who gets within range.
We've sent out scouts to see what's happening.
Stinger: And?
Captain
Willis: Only one returned. She told quite the tale...
At times the Keep is as silent as a tomb...
Other times it echoes with the screams of the damned.
To make matters worse, they've erected a strange barrier in front of
the main gate.
To date, no one has been able to remove it.
Stinger: Sounds like we're all in big trouble.
When is the militia going to do something about it?
Captain
Willis: Soon, if I have anything to say about it.
Still...The Council must give the word.
Stinger: You mean they haven't? What the hell's their problem? Stupid,
feet- dragging politicians!
Captain
Willis: Mind your tongue, boy! The Council needs proof of a crisis before
they send out the militia.
Windleaf: Proof? Take them into the country, Captain...
All the proof they need is there!
Captain
Willis: Based on your report, I agree. All right...I have an idea...
Stinger: Glad someone does!
Captain
Willis: What the Council needs is a first-hand report. Are you up to the
task?
Stinger: Is Keerg from Karillon? Of course we are!
Captain
Willis: Right! I'll set up a meeting. Wait for me in front of the Council
Building.
Windleaf: We'll be there!
Harv-5: Where is this structure?
Captain
Willis: It's in the Hightowne district, just north of the park.
Stinger: You can count on us! Finally, we can get some help!
Captain
Willis: See you soon.
---- He leaves the room.
---- Check out the shelf with the armour, and the picture.
o--------------------------o
| Dingy, dented armour and |
| athletic supporter. |
o--------------------------o
---- A book is on the table at the back of the room.
o----------------------------o
| War Strategies for Dummies |
| By General Mills, Retired. |
| |
| Read it? Yes/No. |
o----------------------------o
------------
Second Visit: After the meeting in the Council Offices.
------------
Captain
Willis: Good luck on your mission, couriers.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Municipal Accounting
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A long room with shelves full of papers and things on the left side.
There is a bed at the end of the room behind a dividing wall. The accounts man
Dix is white haired and has glasses.
Dix: Yes? Well? Speak up!
Stinger: Um...
Dix: What's your business here? Taxes to pay?
Stinger: Nope.
Dix: Is that robot licensed?
Harv-5: Permit 040468. Issued year 452. Expires Year 457.
Dix: I remember it...the only Harvester Robot Permit I've issued.
Windleaf: You seem busy, sir. We'll be going now.
Dix: Bright girl! Now scat! I've got a budget to balance!
---- Speak to him again.
Dix: Off with you! I'm very busy!
---- There are three books which can be read. All are located in the
shelves.
------------
Second Visit
------------
Dix: Yes? What is it now?!
Stinger: We're here to collect our money.
Dix: Is that so? Why would I be giving the likes of you money from the
City's coffers?
Windleaf: We've been appointed couriers by the Council, sir.
Harv-5: We were told to report here to collect money for supplies and
service.
Dix: Hmm...ah, yes. A page brought me a message about this. It's a dire
day indeed!
Stinger: What's that supposed to mean?
Dix: It means that it's a crying shame we've been reduced to hiring
ragtag mercenaries...
Stinger: Listen, mac...One more crack like that, and I'll...
Dix: You'll do something ignorant and get locked in the dungeon. Rather
difficult to make money in jail...Am I clear?
Stinger: Whatever!
Windleaf: We'll do our best to serve the city well, sir.
Dix: See to it that you do, young lady. Here is half of your...fee.
o--------------------------o
| Party receives 1000 gold |
o--------------------------o
Stinger: Half?!? What gives?
Dix: The other half is payable upon your return from the Academy. With
confirmation of the message's delivery, I might add!
Stinger: This deal's getting rawer by the second.
Windleaf: Come on, Stinger...some is better than none.
---- Speak to Dix again.
Dix: Unless you want to be audited, I suggest you vacate the premises!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Skyway
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There is a tube projecting upwards from Middletowne. This is the
Skyway. The Attendant is dressed in a purple uniform, with a cap.
Attendant: Greetings, citizens. Welcome of the Karillon Skyway!
Stinger: This is amazing!
Attendant: Ain't it the truth?
Windleaf: Um...what is it, exactly?
Attendant: This is the KA-1 Skycarriage. Using the power of steam, hydraulics,
pneumatics and other wonders of science...
Stinger: Yeah, yeah! Spit it out, sage-boy!
Attendant: It carries groups of people from this point to a station in
Hightowne.
Stinger: Way up there? That's gotta be 200 feet at least!
Harv-5: 230 feet.
Stinger: Hmm. I've seen rope and pulley elevators before...They were slow!
This thing must take forever to go 230 feet!
Attendant: On the contrary, my good man. The KA-1 makes the journey in
seconds!
It's automatic, systematic, and hydromatic! Almost as fast as
lightning!
Windleaf: Is it safe? I mean...to move so much metal so quickly...
Attendant: Safer than a horseback ride or an ocean voyage by far!
Soon, Skyways will run throughout Karillon. You'll be able to reach
any point in moments!
Harv-5: This is Gadgeteer technology.
Attendant: You have a good eye, or sensory organs or whatever those are...
The techsmiths of Eyre were indeed involved in the Skyway's
construction!
However, it was assembled right here in good old Karillon!
But enough of my chit-chat...
Care to go for a ride, folks?
Yes.
No.
---- Select No.
Attendant: Suit yourself. Remember...The Skyway never sleeps. We run all day,
every day!
---- Speak to him again.
Attendant: Well met, Citizens! The Skyway is here to serve you.
Ready to ride to Hightowne?
---- Select No.
Attendant: Have a good day and remember...The Skyway never sleeps!
---- Select Yes.
Attendant: All aboard!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. Hightowne Location 0034
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A top down from a long way away view of a path and a park in the
centre. Only the buildings to the right can be seen at first.
The Skyway exit.
Attendant: Just in time for the Skyway to Middletowne, folks!
Want to climb aboard?
Yes.
No
---- Select No.
Attendant: Enjoy your stay in Hightowne!
--- Select Yes.
Attendant: Come back soon!
-----------------------------
Buildings: From bottom to top
-----------------------------
1. The Bistro
2. Brady's House
3. The Diva's Residence
4. The Whyte's Home
5. The Mayor's Residence
6. City Park
7. Council Offices
8. The Bell Tower
9. The Docking Bay
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. The Bistro
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The doorman stops the group when they move to the lighted doorway at
the right of the path.
Outside The Bistro
------------------
Doorman: Get lost, kids!
Stinger: Huh?!
Doorman: Nobody I don't recognise gets in here...Unless you have a Pass...
...or a contribution of 10,000 gold to the Church of Rocco.
Windleaf: Rocco? I've never heard of that god.
Doorman: Behold, quiver in the majesty of his highness, Rocco!
Ta daa! I'm Rocco!
Stinger: Why did I know he'd say that?
Doorman: You wanna go in and eat?
Yes
No.
---- Select yes, without the pass.
Doorman: Fine! Cough up the gold...
Show me a pass...
Or yer gonna discover what an angry god I can be!
o-----------o
| Use Pass |
| Pay Bribe |
o-----------o
---- Select use Pass. (When you don't have it.)
Doorman: Very funny, wise guy. Now scram before I cave your funny head in!
---- Speak to him again and he repeats the question,
Doorman: You know the drill...Cough up a Pass of fork over 10,000 gold!
---- Select Pay Bribe.
Doorman: Step this way, gentle beings! Enjoy your meal today!
---- The group automatically move into the restaurant.
---- Select Use Pass.
Doorman: Why, hello there citizens! A pleasure to serve you today!
Please...do come in!
Inside The Bistro
-----------------
Setting: They are at the far end of a long high ceilinged room standing in
front of a wall that is a window overlooking the city.
Stinger: Get a load of that view! Wow!
Windleaf: I don't think I've seen anything like it!
Harv-5: I have...memories...A similar view...Falling from the sky...
Stinger: Harv-5...you never cease to amaze...Look, Windleaf!
Windleaf: At what?
Stinger: Out there!
Pretty neat, heh?
Windleaf: Breathtaking...
---- Move down the room and speak to the two people.
Cook: I'd recommend my world famous General Yoder's Chicken with its tangy
special sauce...
...but we just ran out of special sauce.
Waitress: Hello! Welcome to the Bistro!
I'm terribly sorry, but you can't go down to the main dining room.
It's packed!
You'll have to eat in the overflow dining area here. It's much
quieter, though!
Here's the menu! What would you like?
o--------------------------------------o
| Glazed Ambercod over Toasted Barley |
| 5000 gold |
| Slow Roasted Berk with New Glards |
| 3500 gold |
| Admiral Woolsey's Gnasher with Rice |
| 2000 gold |
| Serraberry Salad with Fresh Bread |
| 1000 gold |
| Tubular Steak |
| 500 gold |
| Water |
| Free |
o--------------------------------------o
---- Select an expensive dish.
Stinger: I don't have that much gold!
---- Select Water.
Stinger: Um...Water's fine, thanks...
---- Select the cheaper option.
Stinger: Mmmmmm! That's the best meal I've ever had!
o----------------------------o
| The party has been restored|
o----------------------------o
#With the Pass
Waitress: Today's menu is compliments of the house.
---- The menu is the same but with no prices.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Brady's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No access.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. The Diva's Residence
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A large room with various items of furniture and a woman in a purple
dress.
The Diva: Good day. What can I do for you?
Windleaf: We're newcomers to the city.
The Diva: I see. That would explain why you have entered my home without
permission.
Windleaf: Oh...um...Sorry about that.
The Diva: Think nothing of it. My fans often take such liberties!
That's when I simply call and have them carted away!
Stinger: Fans...?
The Diva: You don't know who I am?
Stinger: Afraid not, lady.
The Diva: I am the Diva...You know, of the Karillon Opera!
Stinger: Oh...
The Diva: Oh?!? Is that all you have to say?
Why, the nerve of some people! "Oh," indeed! Humph!
Harv-5: Madam, this human is uninterested in the music genre known as
'opera.'
Were you a chorus line dancer or bar singer you would find an ardent
fan before you.
The Diva: Indeed. I shall have to work on my honky-tonk piano tunes...
Stinger: Now you're talkin', sister.
The Diva: Look, I'm extremely busy. Unless you want to make yourselves
useful, I'd like you to leave!
Stinger: What do you mean, 'useful?'
Bye!
#SELECT: What do you mean, 'useful?'
The Diva: I have a...discreet matter I'd like taken care of.
Stinger: Go on...
The Diva: I have a letter I need delivered to a...friend in Oldtowne.
Stinger: I get it. You don't want to go slumming!
The Diva: I don't want to get mobbed! It would be a disaster!
This task requires discretion. You must not tell a soul.
Stinger: What's it worth to you?
The Diva: I will pay the sum of 200 gold upon confirmation of delivery.
The Diva: Do you want the job?
Yes
No
The Diva: Deliver this letter to a man named Karl.
##SELECT Bye!
The Diva: Very well. Ta ta!
---- Speak to her again.
The Diva: Greetings. Are you here for the courier job?
Yes. No.
---- Select No.
The Diva: I see. Good day to you then!
---- Select Yes.
BOTH POSITIVE RESPONSES RESULT IN THIS.
The Diva: Deliver this letter to a man named Karl.
o----------------o
| Received: |
| Letter to Karl |
o----------------o
Stinger: Where can we find Karl?
The Diva: His home is on the edge of Oldtowne.
Once you give him the letter, bring any replay he has to me.
Stinger: Right.
The Diva: I shall pay you then.
Stinger: Got it.
The Diva: Oh...do go easy on him. He is rather high-strung...
Stinger: Fine. We'll keep it in mind.
The Diva: See to it that you do. Thank you and good day!
---- Speak to her again.
The Diva: Have you delivered my letter yet?
Stinger: No, not yet.
The Diva: Shouldn't you be elsewhere, then? Like delivering my letter?
Begone!
---- Check out the stove, the pictures and cupboards.
o---------------------------o
| Custom Gadgeteer-designed |
| heat radiating mineral |
| burner. |
o---------------------------o
o-------------------o
| Karl the Kept Man |
o-------------------o
---- It's a free-standing closet. Snoop inside? Yes/No.
o----------------------------------o
| Lots of old costumes accompanied |
| by the heady aroma of mothballs. |
o----------------------------------o
---- It's a chest. Look in drawer? Yes/No.
o------------------------------- --o
| Assorted garments, sheet music, |
| old love letters and fancy dried |
| prunes. |
o----------------------------------o
------------
Second Visit: After taking the letter to Karl.
------------
The Diva: Ah! My couriers. have you delivered my letter?
Stinger: Yes, we have.
The Diva: Do you have...anything for me?
Stinger: We do indeed. Here it is.
o--------------------------o
| Stinger gives the letter |
| to the Diva |
o--------------------------o
The Diva: Very good. Here is your money.
o-------------------------o
| Party receives 200 gold |
o-------------------------o
Stinger: Well? What does it say? Good news?
The Diva: Humph! I'll have you know this is a private affair!
Er, I mean...situation.
Stinger: Hmm...right.
The Diva: Thank you for your service. Good day to you!
---- Speak to her again.
The Diva: Oh...hello. I'm sorry, but I have no messages to be delivered at
this time.
Thanks for dropping by, though.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. The Whyte's Home
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The ground floor of a large house. There is s grand piano and a man
in green, Humphries the butler, speaks first. There are also two elderly white
haired people.
Humphries: Ahem...you'll have to use the service entrance.
Stinger: Uh...we're not here to serve anyone.
Humphries: Very good. Then you may promptly leave.
Stinger: Whoa! Get a load of this place! Come on guys, this has to be
seen...
Step aside, stuffy...
---- Humphries walks to another man with white hair.
Humphries: Excuse me, Sir...Madam...some trespassers here to see you!
Whyte: I say, Humphries...Don't be such an old woman!
I always have time for such...unique individuals.
Stinger: Quite a place you have here...
Mrs.Whyte: A master of the understatement, isn't he, dear?
Whyte: Quite right, lovely.
Mrs.Whyte: Still...he must be of means. Not many can afford one of those
mechanical butlers!
I feel positively colonial having to deal with a LIVING butler and
all!
Humphries: Harumph!
Windleaf: A mechanical butler..?
Stinger: He means Harv-5, darling.
Windleaf: Huh?! Darling...?!?
Stinger: Heh heh...She's so modest.
We have a dozen or so of those robots around the house!
Mrs.Whyte: How droll! You simply must come to out next dinner party!
Windleaf: Hmph! Will you be serving humble pie? I know someone who needs a
helping...
Stinger: Meow, hiss! Oh, butler...? Do bring the lady some milk, there's a
nice lad!
Whyte: Har har har! Well put, old chap.
Mrs.Whyte: Reminds me of...us, dahling!
Whyte: Indeed! Enjoy our hospitality...Our house is yours.
---- Speak to them all again.
Humphries: May I help you, sirs and madam?
Stinger: Yeah...tell us...Why do you work for these people? They're
jackasses!
Windleaf: Ssh! Stinger! They might hear!
Stinger: I couldn't care less! They're snobs!
Humphries: Quite right, sir.
Windleaf: Huh?
Humphries: Indeed, madam. The Whytes are abominations.
Stinger: So why do you put up with them?
Humphries: It is a family tradition. As long as their family exists, a
Humphries will serve them.
I say...you look like you could use some money.
Windleaf: Uh oh...
Humphries: Would you kill them for me? I'd pay you very well!
I'd do it myself, but...well...everybody does suspect the butler in
such matters, now, don't they?
Stinger: Mister...We may not like your employers, but...we're not assassins!
Humphries: Then I will bear my burden until they both drop dead...Ho hum...
Stinger: You could always quit...Get a new job, you know?
Humphries: I shall consider it. Thank you for your kindness.
---- Speak to him again.
Humphries: One day my employers will get what's coming to them!
Mrs.Whyte: I must ask...Is it your custom not to bathe?
Whyte: If you get a haircut and wear proper attire, you'll go far in this
man's world!
---- Go upstairs to find the two blond Whyte children.
Sissy: Look! New playmates!
Junior: Dibs on the kid with funny hair!
Sissy: Looks like a loser!
Junior: What about the wooden one?
Sissy: I know...!
Let's set him on fire!
Junior: That'd be hot! Then we can push him down the stairs and blame it on
the butler!
Sissy: Ooh! I'll get the matches!
Stinger: Okay, okay. fun time's over, you little weasels.
Sissy: Says who? We live here, not you!
Junior: That means we can do whatever we want!
Stinger: We're escapees from an asylum.
Junior: Loonies! I knew it!
Sissy: What's wrong with you?
Stinger: We got sent there for roasting and eating children...Specially the
wooden man...
Harv-5: I always like the roasting more than the eating...
Windleaf: Stinger! Harv-5!
Stinger: Brats like you deserve to be placed in a pie and baked!
Harv-5 The optimal temperature is 400 degrees.
Windleaf: Stinger!!! Harv-5!!!
Sissy: Whaaaaaaaaaa! Haaaaaaaaalp!
Junior: Bwwaaaaaah!
---- Junior runs off into the other bedroom.
Windleaf: What was that all about? They were just kids.
Stinger: No, they were snotty little brutes...
Harv-5: I was assisting Stinger in his attempt to discipline the children
through scare tactics.
Windleaf: Well, it worked! They're pretty sacred!
Harv-5: Perhaps it worked too well. I think one of them had an accident.
Stinger; Wheeeew! You got that right!
Windleaf: Let's get some fresh air...
---- Speak to them both.
Sissy: Please don't bake me in a pie!
Junior: I'll be good, I promise!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. The Mayor's Residence
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The setting: The house to the right of the path to the Council Offices. Inside
the mayor is standing to the left between two bookcases.
The Mayor: Well! If it isn't our Couriers! What can I do for you?
Stinger: We came to Karillon to find some answers...
The Mayor: Yes?
Stinger: And now we're off to check out the Keep and stuff...
Windleaf: We're happy to serve, but...
The Mayor: What's your point?
Stinger: What are you going to do about the Homelands?
The Mayor: Look, once we know what the situation is in the Keep, we'll send the
militia in.
As soon as the Keep's under control, we'll send patrols out into the
country.
They'll deal with those beasts and creatures, mark my words.
We'll get to the bottom of this...Order will be restored!
Stinger: I hope you're right, sir.
The Mayor: To be honest, I'm more concerned about the Magi.
Windleaf: The Magi...? Why?
The Mayor: They've always been an enigma. What if all of this is of their
doing?
Harv-5: That seems unlikely. They're scholars...people of intellect.
Stinger: Besides, they're supposed to be ancient, crinkly old things...Why
would you be worried about them?
The Mayor: Well...people change. Times change...
Harv-5: Change is all people can know. It defines their lives.
The Mayor: Yes, well...at any rate, we need to take one step at a time.
If you need help, talk to the Council...the Sage...anyone you like.
Don't be afraid to ask questions!
Stinger: We won't. See you later!
The Mayor: Hang on!
I'd like you to have something. I can't use them anymore, but I'm
thinking you can...
---- If your packs are full.
...Oh, but I guess you don't have much room right now for extra
goodies.
Perhaps if you come back later when you are less encumbered...
o----------------o
| Party received:|
| Deathcheat |
| Aether Drop |
| Steel Arrow |
o----------------o
Stinger: Hey...thanks a lot, your Honour!
Windleaf: We'll use them proudly.
The Mayor: I know you will. Now get to it! The city's depending on you!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. City Park
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The setting: A circular park, with trees and plants. There is a pond and a
walkway and a few people.
Stinger: Wow...what a park!
Windleaf: It's nice...But nowhere near as pretty as Enclaan used to be...
Harv-5: The plant life here is healthy. Everything is well tended.
Stinger: How would you know?
Harv-5: It was my duty to cultivate crops as well as harvest them.
One could say that plants...are a hobby of mine.
Of all the life forms on Arkose...plants are the most sublime...
Stinger: Yeah, but plants can't talk.
Harv-5: My point exactly.
Stinger: Huh?
Windleaf: Um...Let's take a closer look, shall we?
---- Go forwards from the entrance to speak to the park keeper, Tollex.
------
Tollex:
------- Hullo there!
Stinger: Greetings, old timer.
Harv-5: Are you the tender of these plants?
Tollex: Aye, that's me. Something out of place? A weed I missed?
Harv-5: Negative. You have maintained this place well.
Tollex: Why, thank ye...Ehhh...What are ye, exactly?
Harv-5: I am a Harvester Mark 5.
Tollex: A markvive?
Windleaf: Mark 5. A gardening robot if you will.
Tollex: Oh...drat...I knew this wasn't going to be good.
Stinger: How so?
Tollex: Ever since I can remember, folks have been trying to get me to
retire.
First, they used spells. The they tried potions. Now they send
this...cheap wooden gardener!
Harv-5: You misunderstand. I do not seek to replace you.
Tollex: No? Jolly good!
Never mind. All is well!
But do keep off the grass and watch out for mimes! They're nasty!
---- Speak to him again.
Tollex: Durn it! This ain't a public toilet for hounds! Nobody respects my
park anymore!
---- From the entrance go right to the tree and speak to the woman.
-----
Lydia:
-----
Lydia: Oh, far out. Adventurers.
Stinger: Hi.
Lydia: You people...With your swords and scythes and armour...You're so
utterly primal!
Windleaf: Is that ...good?
Lydia: Oh, fer sure, fer sure! I think I'll paint a mural with you in it.
Stinger: Really? That'd be cool!
Lydia: Oh, the coolest! I'll get started right away.
Harv-5: Do not you require a sketch? A reference?
Lydia: Oh, no. I have a perfect memory. Once I see something, I never
forget it.
Windleaf: That must come in handy.
Stinger: Yeah...Right up to the point you see something hideous...
Lydia: Maybe you'll see yourself in the gallery some day!
Windleaf: That would be fine. Nice meeting you!
Lydia: Ciao!
---- Speak to her again.
Lydia: Nice to see you again!
---- Continue around the edge to the far left to find a white bearded man
dressed in red.
-----
Kisa
-----
Kisa: Hey, cats. What's shakin'?
Stinger: Not much, man.
Kisa: Cool, man, cool. You just make the scene?
Stinger: Sort of. It's their first time. I've been around, though.
Kisa: I dig. So, brother...Do your droogs have names?
Stinger: Yeah. The chick's name is Windleaf.
Kisa: A pleasure to meet you, lady fair.
Windleaf: Thanks. Likewise, I'm sure.
Stinger: And this fine example of robothood is Harv-5.
Harv-5: Greetings and salutations.
Kisa: I'm hip! I dig robots, man. They're like, endsville!
Stinger: Ha ha! Wait'll you spend time with one. You might change your
mind...
Kisa: Mellow, my brother. This is a place of serenity, dig?
Stinger: Sorry.
Kisa: It's like, in the past.
Stinger: Cool. Look, we gotta go. Take it easy.
Kisa: Be cool, cats.
---- Speak to him again.
Kisa: Hey, cool cats. Keep your peepers peeled for mimes, dig? They're a
stone-cold drag, man.
---- Continue up and then down the path next to the walkway. Speak to a
thin man with a goatee beard and a brown beret.
-----------
Street Poet
-----------
J-I-M-B-O...
J-I-M-B-O...
J-I-M-B-O...
Jimbo was a Clown-O
Howdy Jimbo.
---- Speak to him a few times and get some more poems.
Street Poet: I on
ce
knew th
is
guy wh
o had
a pian
o and I
had too
much gr
og...
and thre
w up in
it and my fr
iend h
ated me
forever.
Street Poet: History repeats.
As time stands still.
Pain is such a
Bitter pill...
Artichoke hearts will
Never beat...
Why do cats
Land on their feet?
Street Poet: Dark and soiled,
Souls on hooks,
Screaming out of
Ancient books...
Dark fire and dull, dull pain,
He again would seek to reign!
Street Poet: Noses run
And feet will drip:
Prepare yourself
For a fateful trip...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Council Offices
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The Council Office is at the top of the path and are a grey large
building.
---- Approach the building before the events and you cannot get inside.
o-----------------------------o
| Council meeting in session! |
| Come back later. |
o-----------------------------o
As the party approaches the offices Captain Willis is there waiting and speaks.
Captain
Willis: There you are! Come along...the Council's waiting for you.
Stinger: Good!
Windleaf: I hope they believe us...
Harv-5: We speak the truth.
Captain
Willis: Let's hope they come to that same conclusion.
---- They enter the Council Offices room.
Captain
Willis: Okay, this it it. Speak truthfully and with respect, and it'll go
smoothly.
Stinger: Yes, sir.
Captain
Willis: Follow me.
---- They walk forwards to stand in front of 4 people sitting behind a
long solid table. Stinger stands in a witness stand in from of
them.
The Mayor: Well. Captain...These are the survivors in question?
Captain
Willis: Yes, Mayor.
The Mayor: The captain tells us that you bring dire news.
Stinger: That's right, uh...Your Mayorness, sir.
The Mayor: Your Honour will suffice. What happened, exactly?
Stinger: It's hard to say, but...Well...
Whyte: Speak up, young man!
Stinger: I was coming home from a night in the forest. I...
My step dad and I had a huge argument the day before. I was going
to run away from home...
Anyway, I needed a few more belongings. I was going to pick them up
on my way down to the ship docks...
High Sage: Go on...
Stinger; Right about then, I saw this bright flash of light over Port
Lochane...
Brady: Hmm...
Stinger: It seemed to be swallowing the town...
I couldn't move at first...All i could do was watch.
The Mayor: And then?
Stinger: I thought I saw something in the centre of the light...Like a
man...mostly.
Whyte: Keerg's bones!
Stinger: The light began to spread...I started to run...
Next thing I knew. I was flying through the air.
When I woke up, I went into town. Nothing was left but ruins.
Well...not exactly nothing.
Brady: What do you mean?
Stinger: There were things...creatures. They seemed to be coming out of the
pit formed during the blast...
They were hungry. They were looking for food.
High Sage: We've heard of such creatures.
Whyte: We have...?
High Sage: They've been attacking travellers in the countryside, but seem to be
leaving Karillon alone...
Captain
Willis: For now...
Stinger: Anyway, I fought my way through town. I ran into Windleaf...We
hooked up...Then we began out journey here.
Whyte: And you, young lady? What happened to you?
Windleaf: Enclaan was hit too. Nothing remains but ruins. Had I been there,
I would be among the dead.
Harv-5: Barleygrove was razed. I was in the fields. This allowed me to
escape harm.
The Mayor: Good citizens, now that the telling is over, we hope you can begin
to forget...To heal.
Put the past behind you...You will be well cared for here.
Stinger: But...but...What are you gonna do about it?!
Whyte: Humph! that's really none of your concern!
Stinger: Keerg's blood! Our towns are gone...We have no one left...The dead
MUST be avenged!
Captain
Willis: Settle down, son. It's not like we don't have a plan. In fact...
You might be able to help us.
Whyte: Are you mad, Willis? They're just kids...Well, the humans anyway!
Captain
Willis: They made it here alive, didn't they? That's more than we can say
for the patrols we sent to the Homelands.
Whyte: ...but...
Captain
Willis: For whatever reason, Keerg has seen fit to place these three into
our hands. Providence is at work here.
High Sage: There is wisdom in the captain's words. We can at least make the
offer.
Brady: I agree. It's up to them to decide.
The Mayor: Very well.
Stinger: What are you all talking about?
Captain
Willis: In light of recent events, we've decided to seek the counsel of the
Magi.
Stinger: The Magi?!? How can you be sure they aren't behind this?
High Sage: No one is certain...But there is strong reason to believe they are
not.
Brady: Because of this, we've voted to organise a party of couriers.
Whyte: The couriers will take our message to the Academy. With any luck,
the Magi will come to our aid.
The Mayor: That brings us to you. Will you be our couriers?
Stinger: Is the world solid? Of course we'll go! Er...won't we, guys?
Windleaf: I'll go.
Stinger; Really?
Harv-5: The Academy is on my way. I will the proceed to Eyre.
Captain
Willis: Well, then. It looks like we have our couriers.
The Mayor: Very well. We'll send for you as soon as we've found a way through
the Keep.
Stinger: Yes, Your Honour.
Windleaf: Um...your Honour?
The Mayor: Yes, dear?
Windleaf: We're...a little low on supplies...Can you help us?
The Mayor: Ah, yes. Report to the Municipal Accountant in Middletowne.
He will issue finds to you. Use them wisely!
Captain
Willis: I'd suggest visiting the Smith in Oldetowne if you need weapons or
armour. He has the best prices in town.
High Sage: Feel free to visit the Temple of Wisdom if you need advice.
The Mayor: Thank you for your service, couriers. If you'll excuse us, we've
matters of state to discuss.
---- They are automatically outside again.
Stinger: This is more like it! My prayers have been answered.
Windleaf: There's something a little strange about all of this...Why not send
their own men?
Stinger: You heard them! They all failed! We're like their last hope!
Harv-5: If we are to have a chance, we must get better gear.
Stinger: Let's go get that money, and then let's get dangerous!
Windleaf: I could say something, but I won't...
-----------------------------------
Second Visit to the Council Offices: Automatic after revisiting Abran.
-----------------------------------
The Mayor: Yes, couriers? What's the big news?
Whyte: It had better be important! I was in the middle of brunch!
Brady: Simmer down, Whyte. The world won't end if you don't feed your
face.
Whyte: Humph!
Stinger: We think we have a way past the Crystal Barrier.
High Sage: Really?
Whyte: Why didn't you say so?
Windleaf: With the help of Abran, we've found a spell that may destroy the
barrier.
Whyte: Magic?! How can you be certain it'll work?
Windleaf: Well, to be honest there's only one way to find out.
Captain
Willis: Hmm. the keep's been quiet lately. Our scouts haven't seen any
signs of life.
High Sage: Perhaps they've killed each other off?
Captain
WIllis: Perhaps...
Stinger: If that's the case, we're all set! Bust the barrier and go!
Brady: I don't know...Crazy thing to put your hopes in...this magic
stuff...
The Mayor: Well...We've nothing to lose. Give it a try...
Brady: We still have our siege engine strategy if they should fail.
Stinger: You might as well give us the message for the Magi, too.
Whyte: Whaat?
Windleaf: If it works and we get through, we'll just keep on going, okay?
Harv-5: Time keeps on ticking.
Captain
Willis: Well...it's a little rash. We have no idea what's inside the keep
for certain...
But it does make a strange sort of sense...I say we give it a shot.
The Mayor: As you wish, Captain. Here's the message, couriers.
o-----------------o
| Party received: |
| Council Message |
o-----------------o
The Mayor: Good luck, couriers.
(After this they are outside the Council Offices again.)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. The Bell Tower
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: to the right of the Council Office. Guarded and no access yet.
Guard: Sorry, citizens. the Bell Tower's off limits. Safety first!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. The Docking Bay
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: to the far left and top of the area. A high platform.
Skybridge
Guard: Greetings! Pretty fascinatin' stuff, eh? the Architect says this
is the wave of the future.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
v. Gogarin Keep 035
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World map
---------
A large and angry looking orange sun, east of Karillon.
o------------------------o
| Our friend," Mag", the |
| sun. |
o------------------------o
A large fish in the sea to the north east of Karillon.
o-------------------------o
| Old Fisherman's symbol. |
| Denotes the fact that |
| scholls of the infamous |
| "face fish" have been |
| spotted hereabouts. |
o-------------------------o
---- o--------------------------------------o
| An ancient keep, grim and forboding. |
o--------------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They arrive at the blocked gateway to the forbidding and large stone
built keep.
Stinger: Well...This either works, or...we're out of luck.
Windleaf: Come on, show a little faith here!
Harv-5: I will show faith.
Stinger: Oh really?! I'd like to see that!
Harv-5: I am bio-mechanical in nature. I can...feel things. I am not
just...a machine.
Stinger: Yeah, okay...You still whir when you walk, though...
Harv-5: Negative. It is simply the case that...
Windleaf: Come on, children. Aren't we forgetting something?
Stinger: All right. Back to business...Let 'er rip!
Windleaf: That's better...
---- Windleaf walks forward to the entrance.
Windleaf: Here goes nothing!
o-----------------------------------o
| Windleaf casts the Shatter Spell! |
o-----------------------------------o
Stinger: Excellent! You did it! You really did it, Windleaf!
Windleaf: What...you thought it wouldn't work?
Stinger: Oh, no! It's just that, well...Uh...you know!
Windleaf: You lie like a rug...but it's okay. I wasn't sure either.
Harv-5: Enough jolly banter. Let us proceed before we attract more
attention than we have already.
Stinger: Right! Let's see what's in there!
---- They enter the Keep.
Setting: A top down view of a green square entrance hall with the upper floors
above circling the hallway. The group are seen as tiny figures.
Stinger: Heads up! There's a Gogarin!
Windleaf: Maybe he's okay...He hasn't attacked yet.
Harv-5: I would advise extreme caution! There is danger here. There is...
Stinger: Relax! I know what I'm doing!
---- Stinger approaches the figure.
Stinger: Excuse me, sir...
Might we have a word with you before travelling into the Crescent
Valley?
Knight: Sir...madam...curious creature of wood...
I regret I cannot allow you passage through the Keep.
Stinger: Huh?
Windleaf: He seems fine to me.
---- The Knight moves closer to Windleaf.
Knight: Mmm! Not nearly as fine as you, sweetie pie...
Windleaf: !!! If this is chivalrous behaviour, I'm the Queen of Khelest.
Knight: Ha! Greetings, your majesty!
What are you selling, Queenie? Magazines...? Mints...?
Ah...I know. COOKIES!
Shoot me a box, toots...
Harv-5: This man is ill. There is danger here. There may be death...
Knight: Eh? Well, actually, there has been a LOT of death recently.
Spectacular, really...
The New Captain is quite voracious...(He pauses and looks around.)
Waiter, check please!
Harv-5: There...is no waiter here.
Stinger: He's quick, old Harv-5 is.
Knight: As I was saying, the New Captain has ordered us to keep all
travellers OUT.
Toxic wasteland down in the valley...Nice beaches, though...up in
the cliffs...
Free your mind...free your bladder...!
Stinger: So much for the defenders of the realm...
Come on everyone! Let's go!
Knight: No! Let's go-go. Everyone loves a party!
BATTLE
Stinger: I'd love to meet the "New Captain" that poor guy mentioned.
Windleaf: Sometimes you have to be careful what you wish for...
Harv-5: It's wise to expect anything at this point. Still, we must keep
going.
---- Sounds of mad laughter and screams are heard.
---- Go through the top left doorway and check the room.
---------------------------
Door to the Crescent Valley
---------------------------
Setting: A room with stores of armour and a locked door.
Stinger: Looks like the armoury has been sacked...what a shame...
Who in Keerg's name could have worn this thing? It weighs a ton!
---- Once they have Grimsmeer's key approach the door.
Stinger: Let's try Grimsmeer's key!
Bingo!
---- They go through this door and are at the other side of the keep
behind a raised portcullis.
-----------------
Hall of Portraits
-----------------
This is through the left doorway. There are many pictures to check out. And a
large door that can be unlocked using the Skeleton Key L3.
Top right.
Havx-5: I recognise this man...he is Vig Gogarin, the organiser of this
order of knights.
Stinger: Harv-5...That guy turned into worm food a couple of centuries ago...
Harv-5: I...I have met this man.
Windleaf: Are you sure it isn't just your...active imagination again?
Harv-5: Negative.
Stinger: Harv-5, you continue to amaze and delight...
Right of Entrance: a frame only.
Stinger: Hmmm...this painting must have REALLY ticked someone off...
Next o-----------------------------o
| Hull Kogan, Gogarin Supreme |
| By Pablo the Greater |
o-----------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| The Bearded One, with |
| Attendant and Mannish Dog |
| by T. Moore |
o---------------------------o
---- After finding the Skeleton Key L4, and opening the large door go
inside the next room and then the inner room.
Check the pot.
o---------------------------o
| Scraps of flesh floating |
| in a pool of thick fluid. |
o---------------------------o
Stinger: UGH! Disgusting!
---- Check the grating in the floor.
Stinger: I guess all the...gunk and whatnot would flow into here...
Thorough design, for a bunch of sadistic goons...
---- Check the Iron Maiden.
Stinger: Who in their right mind would hide a door in an Iron Maiden?!? How
bizarre...
---- They enter the open doorway. The room is lined with bones.
Stinger: This place has wall to wall carpus!
Windleaf: ...
Harv-5: ...
Stinger: Carpus...get it...Wall to wall...
Windleaf: How can you joke in a place like this?
Stinger: Just trying to lighten the mood...besides, it was YOUR idea to come
down here.
Windleaf: MY idea?!? Are you insane? Why would I want to look at all this?
Stinger: Now listen here, Windleaf! You said we should always...
Harv-5: Perhaps you two could scream a little louder. There might be a few
knights that can't hear you.
Stinger: ...
She started it.
Windleaf: Why you morbid, inbred, little...weasel!
Stinger: Who you callin' inbred, tree-hugger?
Harv-5: I don't care who started it. I', going to finish it. Now. Shut up
and behave!
Stinger: Or what? "There will be death"?!?
Harv-5: You really don't want the answer, trust me.
Windleaf: Look...I'm sorry, Stinger. Let's put it aside and get out of here.
Please?
Stinger: ...
I'm sorry, too.
Harv-5: Reaping barley was never this irritating...
---- Check out the empty chests.
Stinger: Keerg knows what might have been hidden in here...
-----------
Dining Room
-----------
Setting: this room is to the right of the main entrance and has two other doors
and a table and chairs in the centre. It is in a mess.
---- As soon as they enter they comment.
Stinger: Well, I'll say one thing for 'em...These guys really know how to
party!
Windleaf: I'm not so sure, Stinger. It looks to me like the Gogarins made a
last stand here.
Harv-5: Indeed. Instead of a party, it was a fight...To the death.
Stinger: You two are a bundle of grins, you know that?
Windleaf: All I'm saying is we need to be careful. Whatever did this might
still be around...
---- The screen goes black and after this message another location is
shown.
o-----------------------------------o
| Meanwhile...elsewhere in the Keep |
o-----------------------------------o
Setting: A round green walled room with red curtained windows and a clawed
fingered human-like creature with a devilish face.
Dark
Minion: Filthy pit of a place...
All the stupid little soldiers are dead and dripping...
This house has gone cold...
Master! Let me leave this hole! I have defeated them all!
I would have words with you! Grrgrrrr...
---- Back to the Dining Room.
Stinger: Okay, okay. You're right, Windleaf. We need to be careful.
Windleaf: Thank you. Wasn't so hard, was it?
Harv-5: Children...behave.
Stinger: Let's go, before Poppa Harv-5 gives us a spanking.
Windleaf: Hee hee hee!
---- Check out the picture.
o------------------------o
| Still-life with Fruits |
| by Axel Tulip |
o------------------------o
---- Go through the top door into the kitchen and examine the things here
for a number of comments. (You get the same comments no matter who
is leading the group.)
Stinger: Someone was sure paying attention to that old adage...
'...you have to break a few eggs if you want to make an omelet...'
Looks like the cook left in a hurry...
As the skewer turns...So does the stomach...
This flour is beginning to spoil...in fact, everything in here is!
Something is accelerating the natural process of decay...
---- After going through the other door and picking the lock, they go up
the stairs.
Stinger: Getting close to the top of the Keep.
Is there anyone sane left in here?
---- Black Screen
Dark
Minion: Sniff! SSssssssssssniff!
What's this...?
That faint aroma...fresh blood! Fresh MEAT!
Sniff...sniff...
And something more...a curious presence...A...magic-user...Ahhhh...
Can it be...? Have the gutless Magi found their spines?!
Extraordinary...
Someone dares to hunt me down?
I would meet these fools...Yes, yes, yessssss...Come. Come to me...
Stinger: Brr! Feels like someone walked over my grave...
---- There are four doors on this level including the one they came
through. The first to the left is to the Throne Room. Take the
first to the right.
--------------
Room with Beds
--------------
Setting: A room with lots of bunk beds.
Windleaf: Arrgh. It reeks in here.
Harv-5: There has been death...
Stinger: But...where are all the bodies? How can you have stink without...
you know?
Harv-5: That is what we must find out.
Stinger: Gee, Harv-5, do we have to? (gag) Some mysteries are best unsolved!
Windleaf: For once, I agree with...(gag) Stinger...Oooh...let's get out of
here!
---- Check the two chests. The right has a Skeleton Key and the left is
empty.
Stinger: Someone, somewhere, is sitting on a LOT of booty...
--------------
To Throne Room
--------------
Setting; A long room with some statues, and a door.
Windleaf: Phew! the stench in here is unbearable...
Harv-5: I hear something...Something is lurking nearby...
---- They turn to face up the room.
Stinger: Like...maybe behind that door?
---- Examine the statues in the room.
o---------------------o
| Kermait the Great |
| Mage Warrior |
| Defender of Gubrath |
| 102 AF |
o---------------------o
Stinger: Looks like this was yet another statue of a mage-warrior.
---- Using the skeleton key go inside the door. Here they meet the Dark
Minion, or Grimseer as he is called.
Grimsmeer: Who dares...? Who disturbs the mighty Grimseer?
Stinger: Holy...take a look at him!
Grimsmeer: Phwaugh! It's you! At last!
Stinger: You were expecting us?!
Grimsmeer: Oh, yessss. Been waiting for you ever since I smelled you!
I must say, it took you fleshbags long enough! What, did you stop
for tea!
Stinger: Phew!!! You reek! What did you eat, man?
Grimsmeer: Ahh...a fine aroma, no? I wear the blood of many Gogarins...
It has formed a splendid perfume of despair.
Harv-5: This entity is not of this world.
Grimsmeer: I could say the same of you, device. You are far more than a
machine...
You possess the aura of life...But you are not quite alive...
Windleaf: No, but we are! And we're taking you back to Karillon.
Stinger: We are...?
Windleaf: You'll pay for what you've done!
Grimsmeer: Ahhh...the little mage...It is you I sensed earlier...
You speak of payment...i would pay any price to corrupt this
hallowed place again. It gave me much joy...
Stinger: All right, stink breath. Fun time's over.
Grimsmeer: Eh...? My pleasure has just begun!
Stinger: Right...Come along quietly, or I'm gonna smack you around!
Grimsmeer: Little man...The only thing you're going to do...
...is BLEED! Grrgrrr...!
---- BATTLE
Grimsmeer: Grrrgrrr...Most unexpected...Arggh...hurts!
Stinger: Music to my ears!
Grimsmeer: I will find you again...slay you...then eat you...
Stinger: What makes you think you're goin' anywhere?
Windleaf: Do yourself a favour. Remain still, and we will be merciful.
Grimsmeer: You, female, I will gut slowly...This I promise...
I will watch as you breathe your last...I will gloat as your body
grows cold...
---- There is an agonised yell and some smoke and Grimsmeer disappears.
Stinger: What the...?!
Harv-5: The creature escaped. It may return...with reinforcements.
Windleaf: It is we who will find you, creature!
Stinger: Huh?!?
Windleaf: Do you hear it?! We will hunt you down!!!
Stinger: You tell him, girl!
For now, though...why don't you relax? We won!
Windleaf: As you say...
Stinger: By the way, Windleaf...What was that back there about 'taking him
back to Karillon'?
Since when are we members of the militia?
Windleaf: I...I don't know. It seemed right at the time...That he should be
tried for his crimes...
Stinger: Well, it was a good thought, but a little misplaced.
Pus-bags like that need to be put down like rabid dogs, not stuck in
front of a judge.
Harv-5: I suggest we continue this debate later...
I believe I have come up with the key we need to leave this place.
o----------- -----o
| Found Exit Key! |
o-----------------o
Stinger: Good eye, Harv-5! Let's get out while the getting's good!
Windleaf: Until next time...Grimsmeer.
-----------------
The Reading Room
-----------------
Setting: The room at the far side of the second floor contains bookshelves in
disarray and a door to the left.
Stinger: Remind me not to use their decorator...
---- Check the books.
Stinger: Hmmm...what's this book about?
'Screaming for Mandom' A self-help journal for Today's Warrior.
I'm not even going there!
o-------------------------------o
| Cardinal Sin! |
| How the Cardinals lost the |
| great jousting contest of '43 |
o-------------------------------o
Stinger: Hmmm...someone left that jacket and took the book!
---- The bookcase to the left of the entrance has a book that can be read
o----------------------o
| The Art of War |
| By Vlagg the Impaler |
o----------------------o
---- Go up through a hidden doorway into a secret treasure room.
---- Go left through the pink lit doorway and cross the empty floor.
---- There is a cracking sound as the floor gives way.
-----------
The Kitchen
-----------
Setting: They land in the kitchen, where everything is broken and in disarray.
Stinger: Oh..ohhhh shhhhh...!
Yeeeaauuch!
Windleaf: Everyone all right?
Harv-5: I have sustained minimal damage.
Stinger: Yeah, me too...That could have been disastrous...
Windleaf: Let's try it again. Only this time...
Stinger: Right, right...'Let's be more careful.' Got it.
How was I to know the whole floor was going to bust open?
Harv-5! YOU should have warned us!
You're always yapping about buildings and their condition and
stuff...
Harv-5: That...was a trap. It was well executed. I am impressed.
Stinger: I'd like to leave an impression...of my fist on your head!
Windleaf: Guys! Stop! Let's not beat each other up over this!
Stinger: Someone else is doing too good a job for us...
Harv-5: I, for one, would like to put that to a stop.
Stinger: You an' me both, buddy...
--------
The Exit
--------
Setting: The back of the Keep. There is a raised portcullis supported by a
stick.
---- Check the stick.
Stinger: This spindly stick is the only thing that's allowing us to get back
to Karillon...
Probably best not to think about it...
===============================================================================
4. CRESCENT VALLEY 0040
===============================================================================
Eat of Gogarin Keep there is a glyph that looks like the head of a Lion with a
half eaten human arm in its mouth.
o-----------------------o
| Site of a gruesome |
| animal attack on a |
| train of settlers who |
| later founded the |
| town of Jynx. |
o-----------------------o
Further east at the Bene Brokul sign.
o--------------o
| Heavy snow. |
| Pass Closed! |
o--------------o
South from here is another glyph of a human-like figure crouching on all fours.
o----------------------------o
| Legenday "Venting God" |
| petroglyph. Often seen |
| tattooed onto the arms of |
| barkeepers and waitresses. |
o----------------------------o
Further south leads to an exit to the next map.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Magic Academy 041
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
o-----------------o
| Academy Plains |
o-----------------o
To the right of the northern entrance to this map, and north of the Magic
Academy is a huge glyph of a monster eating stick figures of people.
o---------------------o
| A symbol of "man's |
| utter inhumanity to |
| his fellow man" |
o---------------------o
Setting: There is a building lit by a turquoise glow, with a blue curved roof
and rounded entrance porch.
Stinger: Well, here we are. Check this place out!
Harv-5: It is a marvel of architecture. So very unlike Gadgeteer work.
Windleaf: It's very...organic in nature. It's charged with power...I can feel
it from here. mmmm...
Stinger: Uh...that's very nice, Windleaf.
Hello? We should probably go in now!
Windleaf: Hmmm...? Oh! Right...tight.
--- As they team up again, a grey indistinct figure appears in front of
the entrance.
Stinger: Whoa!
Spirit: You have come far. Your deeds are impressive.
Stinger: Thanks...Who...who are you?
Spirit: I am a spirit of justice. I seek a reckoning...
Stinger: With...with us?
Spirit: Nay...Vast your gaze to the west...A malady lies upon two towns.
They must be freed...
Stinger: Which two towns?!
Spirit: By the lake and woods ye shall find them...Go...
Stinger: I..but...
Spirit: Return not until you have put things to right...
---- The Spirit disappears.
Stinger: Looks like we have work to do, people.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Anglerville 042
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
To the east of the entrance to this map, there is a glyph of a gallows and a
hanged man.
o--------------------------o
| Site of a famous game of |
| "hangman." |
o--------------------------o
At the eastern edge of the lake is a glyph of a large fish.
o----------------------o
| Ballaich, the Beast. |
| Beware! |
o----------------------o
-----------
Anglerville
-----------
Setting: This whole place is over-run with monsters and many of the people have
gone mad.
-------------
The Town Jail
-------------
Setting: This is the first building in the town. It is dark inside and there
is a kid who has staring eyes, grey skin and a big mouth.
Kid: I'm a foo...
You're a foo...
We're all foos...
Stinger: Thanks for the tip.
---- To the right of the entrance are three jail cells with three people
locked up. They all have grey skin and staring eyes.
Prisoner: Uoooooooooo! Arrrgh...Aireeeeeee...!
(Male)
Stinger: I wonder when this is going to affect us? Seems like it's just a
matter of time.
Prisoner: Huwah...?! HUWAH! Huwaaaaaah!
(Female)
Stinger: Tragic...
Prisoner: Free the people!
(Child) Kill oppression!
Save the wheelats!
Stinger: Are...are you all right?
Prisoner You had me at hello...YOU HAD ME AT HELLO!
Stinger: Hmm...
Prisoner: Ffff...Feast on your soooul...
Stinger: Right. You're definitely not all right.
---- The group turns left onto the other path and enters the first
building.
-------
The Pub
-------
Setting: There are a number of people here, and a couple of dartboards on one
wall and a bar with the tail of a large fish behind it.
Cassie: Howdy, strangers. Just want to let you know you'll be skinned alive
should you be here to loot our poor town.
Stinger: You don't need to worry about us.
Cassie: No, I don't Constable. you watchin' these folks?
Constable: Yup...I'm on 'em like white on rice...
I'll feed 'em to Ballaich if they break the law.
Stinger: Ballaich...? What's a Ballaich?
Constable: Ask one of the gents over at that table. They'll tell ya. They've
SEEN Ballaich!
Stinger: Great. Thanks for the tip.
Constable: Don't mention it.
Stinger: By the way...What's going on with all those creatures out there?
Constable: What's it to ya? We'll deal with them soon enough.
Stinger: Is that so? Hmm...Need any help?
Cassie: Well...now that you mention it...
Constable: Shut it, Cassie! We don't need 'em!
Cassie: Speak for yourself...I'm tired of those creeps thrashing my town...
my bar...everything.
Tell you people what. I'm putting up a bounty on them things out
there.
Stinger: Bounty...?
Cassie: 2000 gold pieces, plus some fine gear and items, to the first person
that gives proof the town's clear.
Stinger: That's a good offer...
Cassie: Darn straight it is. No lootin', though. Understood?
Stinger: Unerstood.
Constable: Humph! You can talk all you want about that bounty.
While you're talkin', I aim to take care of them things all by my
lonesome. For free!
Stinger: Good luck...You'll need it.
Constable: Same to ya! We'll see who's lucky, we will!
---- The constable and the other two men start to nod their heads.
---- Speak to the constable again.
Constable: Bounty hunters! Ha! I'm the law here, and I'm gonna handle these
monsters. Stay outta my way, see?
---- Speak to the man in the white shirt.
Khrispe: Ballaich? Yeah, I seen him.
Huge, and as ugly as the back of my head.
A fish the size of a town. And a maw larger than the gates of
paradise...
Stinger: Normally, I'd be sceptical. After all I've seen, though...
Khrispe: Better believe it! Ballaich's real...Too real...
---- Speak to him again.
Khrispe: I'm feeling kinda quiet just now. Beat it!
---- Speak to the man on the left.
Flook: Ballaich...He surfaces a couple of times a year...
Anyone unlucky enough t'be out on the loch then is likely to be food
for the beast.
Only ones who've seen him and lived t'tell the tale is me and
Khrispe.
Stinger: Sounds like you two are the luckiest men in town.
Flook: I suppose...
Still remember it...Him skimmin' along the surface, his fins
shootin' out of the water like a row of spears...
Think I need another drink...
---- Speak to him again.
Flook: Yeah, you don't want to end up as Ballaich fodder...
Stay clear of the Constable, or you will!
---- Speak to Cassie behind the bar.
Cassie: Sorry, pal. We're fresh out.
Stinger: Huh...? What about all these people? They have drinks!
Cassie: Try back sometime...Like when there ain't no monsters around. Get
me?
-----------------
Laughing Wolf Inn
-----------------
Setting: the ground floor of the inn has a simple layout, with stairs to the
first floor and a large set of fish jaws behind a counter that is lit with one
lamp.
---- Check the jaws.
o-------------------------------o
| This set of jaws was actually |
| out of Popsicle sticks |
| by Mrs. Marie's second grade |
| class. Enjoy! |
o-------------------------------o
Stinger: Astonishing...
---- Speak to the innkeeper, an elderly man with white hair.
Emmons: Ain't no room fer ya here. you'd best be scootin' along. If'n ya
want to live, that is...
Stinger: Whoa, old man. All we want is a place to rest. We're here to help,
if we can...
Emmons: Nothin' doin'...I mean look at ya...
...fer all I know, you might be shape shifters...
Stinger: Shape shifters? Haven't seen any of them yet...Is that what's
attacking the town?
Emmons: Huh...? No! never mind that! It was a figure of speech.
Stinger: Oh.
Emmons: You say you're here to help, but I ain't seen ya helpin' anyone!
Stinger: Give us a chance! We just got here, after all.
Emmon: Hmmm...all right...Fair enough.
Stinger: What's the story here, anyway? Where is everyone?
Emmon: Everyone? Y'mean the everyone who ain't dead, insane, or sittin' on
their butt an' whinin' like pups?
Stinger: Yes...that everyone.
Emmon: Hah! They're here in this room! And if you drop dead, go mad, or
start to whine, that'll leave me.
Stinger: Don't worry. We're not about to do any of those things.
Emmons: Good on ya! Now, you gonna get out there and crack skulls, or will
ya be needin' your beauty rest first?
Get to crackin' skulls
Take a rest.
#Select Take a rest.
Emmon: Humph! Figures...young people t'day. All about comfort and ease...
See ya in the morn...if'n we live that long!
---- Automatically go upstairs and sleep. Continue/Save/Quit.
o----------------------o
| Location: Emmons Inn |
o----------------------o
---- Check the picture above the bedside table.
o-----------------------------o
| Missy With Bait On Her Head |
| By Mikhail Emmons |
o-----------------------------o
---- Check the second bedside table.
o---------------------------o
| 'Keerg's Dandy Deeds' |
| Distributed by the |
| Giddy Ions, International |
o---------------------------o
---- Check the large chest.
o-------------------------o
| Locked from the inside. |
o-------------------------o
Stinger: Whoever is in there is plenty scared...!
##Select Get to crackin' skulls.
Emmons: Keep an eye out for my lucky helmet, will ya? Damn lunatics done
stole it from me!
---- Speak to Emmon again before leaving or if you want healing again.
Emmon: Ye gods! Don't tell me you're tired!
Yeah, we're beat!
Not us, Sir.
#Select Not us, Sir.
Emmon: That's the spirit...Now, GIT! I still hear them damn loonies
chewin' on my town!
-----------------------
Bardney's Angler's Mart
-----------------------
Setting: a shop with three people and a huge green coloured fish hanging on the
right wall.
---- Speak to the first man wearing red.
Booker: Hey, youse guys wit' the militia?
Stinger: In a way. We're couriers for the city of Karillon.
Booker: Dar so? We;;, I s'pose you'll do.
Stinger: Oh?
Booker: Yeah. Someone needs t' get out there and get rid o' dem things!
Stinger: We're doing our best, now that you mention it.
Booker: Good fer you! Nice t' see my tax money at work.
---- Speak to him again.
Booker: Hey! Youse guys ain't gettin' paid to loaf around! Get t' work, ya
bums!
---- Speak to the man in the centre with an eye-patch.
Bardney: Bet you're wondering 'bout that big fith behind me?
Stinger: Fifth...fifth of what?
Bardney: I said fith, not fifth!
Stinger: Ah! That clears things up...a bit.
Bardney: You thee, I wath out in the Loch for fourteen dayth and fourteen
nighth fighting that beatht.
I almotht got killed when it thuddenly jumped over my boat and
thtruck me in the fathe!
Broke out my two front teeth! Thee...?!
Stinger: Uh, yes. Thanks for sharing...
Bardney: That made me tho mad I dethided to thtuff and mount it...
Ithn't thhe a beaut?!
Stinger: Yes. It's a nice fish...
Off the topic...Do you have nay idea as to what's happening here?
Bardney: Happening...?! I haven't a clue.
All I can telll you ith that half the town hath been reduthed to
raving, murderoth lunaticth..
...and the other half hath run away into the foothillth.
We finally managed to catch a few of the poor, mad fellowth who were
running amok. We uthed a jerry-rigged net-trap. Had to throw 'em
into the jail...
Buy hey! Thith ith thuch a downer! You probably came here to
thhop, right?
Stinger: Er...not exactly. We're looking for survivors...
Bardney: Well, I'm definitely a thurvivor! And ath a thurvivor, I'm moving
on, dethpite the danger around me.
Stinger: Can't find fault in that, I suppose.
Bardney: Prethithely! Now that we've got that out of the way...
Thtep right up and check out the goodth!
---- Bardney's Shop Menu will then be shown. After shopping he comments.
Bardney: Come back real thoon, okay!?
---- Speak to him again.
Bardney: Hey, you guyth need to get your butths in gear! The loperth are out
of hand! But in the meantime, check out my inventory!
Thee ya real thoon, tholks!
---- Speak to the nervous looking man in the far corner.
Baha: Hey there. Is it safe to go out yet?
Stinger: Not exactly...I'd keep in here where it's safe, if I were you.
Baha: Hey, you don't have to tell me twice!
If discretion is the better part of valour, then I'm the most
valorous guy alive!
Stinger: Heh heh. That's one way of looking at things.
Baha: Get your leg gnawed off by a school of razorcod, you'd say the same!
Stinger: Perhaps.
---- Speak to him again.
Baha: Be smart. Don't go for a swim in the lake!
---- Check behind the counter, and to the right.
o------------------------------o
| Select used fishing poles... |
o------------------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| -Bait and Sushi Menu- |
| Get it now while it's...cold! |
| Fresh gafelt, pourch, slamon, |
| and groper. Ideal for either |
| bait or sushi! We pack to ship! |
o----------------------------------o
---------
Warehouse
---------
Setting: A large wooden barn on two levels with a number of treasure chests.
---- Check the items, and see the fisherman's story confirmed...
o-------------------o
| Rusty tool kit... |
o-------------------o
o--------------------o
| Bulk fishing line. |
o--------------------o
o------------------------o
| Looks like something |
| literally chewed this |
| old rowboat in half... |
o------------------------o
---- Check the chest on the floor.
Stinger: Hm. This looks like a helmet.
--------------------
Loch Domhain Armoury
--------------------
Setting: The place is empty and there is an unlit forge.
Stinger: The forge is cold. No one has been here for days...
---- Check the anvil.
o-------------------------o
| Useless metal scraps... |
o-------------------------o
-------------------
Empty Private House
-------------------
Setting: An empty room with broken chairs and table and an air of desolation.
There is an unlit stove and a bed.
---- Check the picture.
o-------------------o
| Keeling Over on a |
| lazy Afternoon |
o-------------------o
---- Check the bed.
Stinger: All this mayhem and the bed is still made...
------------
The Armoury
-----------
Setting: The Armoury. There is a barred section and a white haired man behind
it. There is also a dead body on the floor.
Stinger: (Not certain if this place has been destroyed, or if it looked like
this to begin with...)
McLorre: Best weapons in Arkose, but I'm afraid I'm not back to full
capacity yet.
That stint in the hills really took it outta me...feels good to be
back home again!
---- After shopping.
Stinger: Thanks!
McLorre: Please come back again!
---- Speak to him again.
McLorre: Got a few things here if yer interested. Have a look!
---------------
Back at the Pub
---------------
Cassie: Here they are boys! The baddest of the bad!
Our heroes...Stinger, Windleaf, and Harv-5!
Constable: Humph! Bloody lucky, if ya ask me!
Khrispe: Well, we ain't askin't you, are we?
here;s to the ANglerville Three! Cheers!
Flook: To the heroes! Cheers!
Cassie: Here's to ya, folks. May your glory never fade!
Stinger: I'll drink to that!
Cassie: Oh! Before I forget...there's the matter of the bounty.
The bounty is yours for the takin'. However, you seem to be
carryin' quite a load right now.
Return here later when you've sold some of the garbage you're
carryin' around with ya.
---- Speak to all of the people again.
Constable: You interested in employment opportunities? I'd love to have you on
the force!
Khrispe: Ballaich's barnacles! You're tough as nails! Why don't you hang
around for a while?
Flook: If there's anyone who could kill Ballaich, it'd be you folks!
Cassie: Here's looking at you! Cheers!
Stinger: (cough)
That's...strong...drink, ma'am.
Cassie: Ain't it the truth? Hee hee hee!
-----------------
Return to the Inn
-----------------
Emmons: Great Keerg's sainted soul! Can't an old man have any peace?!
Stinger: Relax, old fella. We found something of yours...
Emmons: Did ya now?
Stinger: Yep. Check THIS out! We found this helmet over in the warehouse.
Emmons: !!!
That's my brainpan all right...! Thought I'd never see it again...
Stinger: Oh, ye of little faith...
Emmons: Hrm...Suppose ya want a bounty for it...
You bet we do!
Not a chance. It's yours.
#Select Not a chance.
Emmons: Well! I'll be tanned...I'd thought you'd go for the money!
Stinger: Sorry to disappoint you.
Emmons: Disappoint me?!? Hardly! I'm tickled to death!
I'll tell you what. Here's a reward for it. You look like you can
use it.
o--------------------------o
| Party receives 500 gold! |
o--------------------------o
Stinger: Thanks...appreciate it.
##Select You bet we do!
Emmons: Faaaah! Greedy little sods! Here...500 goodies. All I got!
Thanks a lot, old man!
Um...on second thought...
##Select Um...on second thought...
Emmons: Well! You do have a shred of decency in ya. Thought you might.
Tell ye what. I'll trade ya these here magic daggers for it. Deal?
Stinger: It's a deal.
o-----------------------------------o
| Party receives 15 Rogues Daggers! |
o-----------------------------------o
Emmons: Use them there dirks well, kids. Saved me many a time in my former
profession, they did.
Stinger: Thank. We'll do our best!
###Select Thanks a lot, old man!
Emmons: Yeah, right. Thanks for my brainpan.
o--------------------------o
| Party receives 500 gold! |
o--------------------------o
---- Speak to him again.
Emmons: Feelin' sleepy are we?!
Yeah, we're beat!
Not us!
#Select Yeah.
Emmons: Aw, fer...
G'wan 'n sleep, ya weenies! I tell ya...kids!
##Select Not us!
Emmons: Well then scram and stop wastin' my time! I AM runnin' a business,
ya know!
-----------------
Revisit Barney's
----------------
Booker: Youse guys are all right. Next time I'm in the Big K, I'll look
youse up. We'll do lunch.
Bardney: Welcome, and thankth again for the aththithtanthe!
Stinger: Come again...?
Bardney: I thaid thankth for the aththithtanthe...you know, for helping uth!
Stinger: Ah..."assistance!" Well, yes...it was out pleasure!
Bardney: Ya wouldn't know the plathe anymore. People are making their way
back to town left and right. Feelth like the Anglerville of old!
And to top it off, we've been having a heck of a fithhing season!
People have been catching the thtrangetht fifhh ya ever imagined.
There'th big oneth, black oneth, thpotted oneth...oneth with
tentacleth, 3 eyeth, 4 eyeth...
Stinger: This is all very exciting, but we have to be moving along!
Bardney: Oh, well at leatht take a moment to pick up anything ya might need.
Okay?
---- Shows shop inventory.
Bardney: Come back real thoon, okay?!
-------------------
Leaving Anglerville
-------------------
Setting. As the group approaches the exit to the world map they stop.
Stinger: Hey...hold on.
Windleaf: What's up?
Stinger: We're missing something here...
Windleaf: We are? Everything seems okay to me.
Stinger: Hold it...Let me think.
Windleaf: Uh, oh...
Stinger: Harv-5...the town's all clear of monsters, right?
Harv-5: Affirmative. the town is monster-free at this time.
Stinger: Which means...we win! We get the bounty! Remember? At the pub?
Windleaf: I figured as much. You can be such a mercenary sometimes, Stinger.
Stinger: Hey, Windleaf...In case you didn't notice, we aren't on a salary
here.
This hero stuff gets expensive! And since none of us won the
lottery...
Harv-5: Stinger has a point. To function effectively, we require money and
supplies.
Stinger: See? Even Harv-5 things I'm right!
Windleaf: All right, you win! Sorry for being such an old woman about it.
Stinger: Hey, no worries! Let's get to the pub, okay?
Windleaf: Fine...but remember...we still have a job to do! We can't spend too
much time there.
Stinger: Yes, momma...Come on, Harv-5. Let's go get our money!
Windleaf: Sigh...
---- They automatically appear next inside the pub.
Cassie: Come back for the reward?
Windleaf: Really...It's not necessary...
Cassie: Now, now girl...A deal's a deal in Anglerville.
Take these things with our blessing.
Windleaf: Very well. Thank you, all.
o-----------------o
| Party received: |
| Flynn's Bow |
| Flame Arrow |
o-----------------o
o-------------------------------o
| Party also receives 2000 gold |
o-------------------------------o
Stinger: Thanks everybody. We won't quit until the battle's won!
Everyone: Hurrah!!
--------------------
Loch Domhain Armoury
--------------------
Setting: After clearing the town of Lopers there will be a man in the forge.
McLarre: Yep, the whole family's movin' back from our temporary 'home' in the
foothills.
The durn cretins who terrorised the town tool the best of everything!
Nothin' really special to show ya, but feel free to browse if ya
wish!
---- The shop inventory is shown.
McLarre: Wonder if I'm ever gonna get things in order again.
---- Speak to him again.
McLorre: Havin' a tough time gettin' fresh supplies. Browse if ya want...
-------------
Private House
-------------
Setting: An empty room with scattered furniture and a made bed, and this time
there is a cat.
Stinger: I guess no one made it back alive...Well, except for this cat. Hmm.
Wonder if the Catman needs any new friends?
o---------------------o
| Take cat to Catman? |
| Yes |
| No |
o---------------------o
#Select No and there is no more talk or option.
#Select Yes.
o--------------------o
| Took in stray cat! |
o--------------------o
Stinger: All right, cat. You're a temporary mascot until we get to Catman's.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
There are no towns here. The map is south of the Anglerville map going from
bottom right, and east of the Jynx map. The first glyph which lies to the
south west of the northern entrance to the map, is of a severed foot.
o--------------------------------o
| Symbol of the severed foot of |
| the moon goddess, Priscil. |
| Mag, the sun, bit it off |
| during an eclipse when he |
| got angry about being occluded |
| by his nemesis. |
o--------------------------------o
South west, near the bottom of the map is a glyph of the skeleton of a worm.
o------------------------o
| Denotes discovery of |
| the intact skeleton |
| of an ancient sandworm |
o------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Jynx 0043
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
World Map
---------
North east of Jynx there is large skeleton of a beast.
o---------------------o
| Ancient petroglyph. |
| Meaning unknown. |
o---------------------o
North of Jynx. A large grey coloured moon
o-------------------------o
| Mag the sun's eternal |
| foe, Priscil, the moon. |
o-------------------------o
Setting: The Entrance to the town of Jynx. As soon as the group arrive they
are stopped by Gladdis, a young woman in a blue dress.
Gladdis: I'm gonna tell you a secret. Step over here just a little closer.
Sure...
This is close enough, thank you.
#Select This is close enough, thank you.
Gladdis: Suit yourself. Don't say I didn't try to warn you!
##Select Sure...
Gladdis: That's better! Now listen carefully...
YOU'RE ALL ABOUT TO DIE...HA, HA, HA...!
Stinger: What in Keerg's bunions are you talking about?
Gladdis: Ooh, touchy, aren't we?! just like a make to snap like that!
And what in the heck is THAT thing? A keg with peepers? Is it male
or female?
Harv-5: I am...both...and neither...
Gladdis: One size fits all, eh? Well, whatever bakes your cake, I guess...
Keerg's Mother didn't give me the brains to understand all that
stuff...You just keep your distance from me, okay!
Harv-5: That would be acceptable.
Stinger: 'Keerg's...Mother...?'
Gladdis: Keerg was simply his mother's son! She was the creator! She is the
true power! He is nothing but a sham!
Stinger: Hm...What a unique perspective...Um...let's go...quickly!
---- Speak to her again.
Gladdis: Get outta Jynx on the double! Don't say I didn't warn you!
NOTE: The setting makes the script unusually complex as the party will receive
different responses according to whom is in charge, as Pointman. If Windleaf,
the women will be pleasant and the men rude. If Stinger or Harv-5 the women
will be rude and the men pleasant.
===================
Stinger as Pointman
===================
-----------------------------
The People in the Town Centre
-----------------------------
Setting: There are four people wandering around the centre area near the well.
Zeno: You are a nut, you have a rubber butt, every time you turn around it
goes 'putt putt.' Ha, ha, ha...
---- Speak to him again.
Seno: Ppppffft! Ha ha! Take that!!
Edna: Eschew the male of the species! Men are sick...Men wage war...
---- Speak to her again.
Edna: Men crave...They cheat...They destroy...
---- And again.
Edna: They scratch...They lie...They belch...
---- The party separate to stand and speak to Lotte.
Lotte: I ain't takin' to the likes of you, you...filthy male beastie!
Stinger: Windleaf...maybe you should do the talkin', at least to the women.
I'm not havin' a lot of luck!
Horace: Stay away from the females hereabouts...They'll chew you up and spit
you out again...
Go talk to William, the Mayor. He'll tell you Keerg's own truth!
He's shacked up in his office.
---- Speak to him again.
Horace: You boys have got the right idea! Safety in numbers! Keep an eye
on that shrew there!
----------------------
Crescent Valley Market
----------------------
Setting: This shop is the first doorway on the left at the entrance to Jynx.
There are three people. Bonne is a young girl in green, Tsasi is a child in a
blue dress with a sad face. Hilly is the shopkeeper, standing behind the
counter.
Bonne: I wish I were old enough to leave here. I'd go to Karillon and
become an opera singer!
Trasi: All I want to do these days is scream at my brother. It makes me
feel better somehow...
Hilly: Scram, you good for nothing hog!
-------------
Mayor's House
-------------
Setting: This house is to the right of the entrance. There is a nice room
with two people. William, the Mayor is standing to the right. His young son,
Trani, is at the bottom of the stairs.
William: Howdy, citizen.
Stinger: Hi! Uh, I'm looking for some information.
William: Shoot!
Stinger: I noticed that the men and women here seem to be...at war with each
other.
William: Indeed.
Stinger: Why?
William: Well, I can only speak for myself. It;s...just so strange...There I
was, one evening, going through my invoices...when all of a sudden I
understood what a rancid skunk she was...! 'She' being Hilly, my...
wife, of course.
It was crystal clear! I knew I had to leave before I throttled
her...So I moved into my office here, and I'm happier than I've ever
been!
Stinger: Hm...if you don't mind, I'd like to look around a bit.
William: Help yourself. You might want to visit our Museum.
The skeleton of the ancient 'neopaleoaustolipocamthus,' a savage
animal that roamed these parts millions of years ago is most
astonishing.
That exhibit was installed here 20 years ago by the revered
paleontologist, Dr. Heend.
Stinger: Old bones, huh?! Sure, I'll go check it out.
William: Oh, by the way boy...keep that female of yours on a leash, hear?
---- The party divides into three as Windleaf challenges the man.
Windleaf: Pardon?
William: Ah, now there you've done it! I can't abide that squealing minx!
Get her out of here!
Windleaf: Of all the rude, vulgar things to say! I've fought monsters with
better manners!
Stinger: Uh, Windleaf...
Windleaf: You're lucky I'm civilised, else I'd blast you where you sit!
William: Git! Git! Get outta my place! Shriekin' harlot!!!
Stinger: That's OK, William...we'll going now...come along, Windleaf.
---- Speak to him again.
William: Hey, fellas. Stayin' clear of them females?
Trani: My parents like to yell at each other. They do it every day, all
day. I can't wait to grow up.
---- They go outside the Mayor's Office and stop to talk.
Stinger: What in the name of Keerg's pearly teeth were you DOING in there,
dingbat? That was the mayor! He could've thrown us in the clink!
Windleaf: Humph! Just like a man...taking sides with your ilk!
Stinger: He was being perfectly civil until you threw that fit!
Windleaf: Fit? Fit? You want to see a fit, little man?
Stinger: Oh, yeah? Come and get some, dingbat!
Harv-5: Cease hostilities or face incapacitation!
Stinger: Huh?!
Windleaf: What?!
Harv-5: Stop fighting of I'll knock the two of you out cold.
Now that I have your attention, may I remind you that we have some
serious work to do? Let us proceed...peacefully!
Stinger: All right, already.
Windleaf: As you say, Harv-5.
-------------
A Country Inn
-------------
Setting: The entrance hall to the inn, with some sofas and a glass cabinet.
There is a counter with the innkeeper, a woman called Chacke, behind it.
Chacke: How do you even expect to sleep? No, don't tell me. Don't wanna
know. A room will cost ya 50 gold.
Wanna stay?
Yes.
No.
#Select No.
Chacke: Wise choice. I'd hightail it outta here if I were you!
##Select Yes.
Chacke: May you rest in peace!
---- Check the glass cabinet.
o------------------------------------o
| A little museum of items |
| left behind by prior guests. |
| Locked behind for your protection. |
o------------------------------------o
---- Check the bookcase for information.
---- Go upstairs without paying.
Stinger: I have to pay for a room before I can go upstairs...
-------
The Bar
-------
Setting: An empty room with a cold fireplace and three tables. There is a bar
and a barmaid called Gramme.
---- Check the tables and fireplace.
o---------------------o
| Unused fireplace... |
o---------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| These tables are spotless... |
| It's as if no one comes here! |
o-------------------------------o
Gramme: Well, well...hate to disappoint ya. but I'm dry...haven't had a
delivery in weeks...
Stinger: Why are you still here?
Gramme: Nowhere else to go! Jynx may well be the most unfortunate place in
the universe but...it's home!
Stinger: You might want to find a new one. I think things are falling apart
here.
Gramme: Well...I'll have a ring-side seat then, won't I?
No, I'm gonna hang out for a spell.
Stinger: It's your funeral!
Gramme: Don't even JOKE like that! Things...happen here. Just check out
the inscriptions in the graveyard. Lotta bad mojo 'round here...
---- Speak to her again.
Gramme: Come back in a week and maybe I'll have something to wet your
whistle!
--------------
The Graveyard
-------------
Setting: This is found at the far end of the town and has eerie turquoise
lights showing. There are a number of gravestone and two people. Charlene is
a young woman near the entrance, and Schilly a child.
Charlore Yep...lost my husband, I did. He tripped over a stone and broke his
head open. Bad luck, they say.
Schilly: My favourite place to play is the graveyard. Everywhere else seems
so creepy!
---- Check the three large gravestones, and a small one to the left.
o------------------------------o
| Shelli Melharm, beloved wife |
| of Mell Melharm. |
o------------------------------o
o------------------------------------o
| Passed away due to complications |
| of sleep apnea when a particularly |
| Large and aggressive bird built a |
| mud nest in her mouth while she |
| napped. |
o------------------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Here lies Darnel Flossie |
o---------------------------o
o-------------------------------------o
| Bled to death in his sleep when the |
| stubborn boil he was picking just |
| before bedtime failed to scab over. |
o-------------------------------------o
o------------------------------------o
| Here forever slumbers Dimet Mainew |
| Survived by 3 daughters. |
o------------------------------------o
o-----------------------------------------o
| Killed in a freak accident when she was |
| struck by falling fruit. |
o-----------------------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Pauli Suret |
| Sleeps Here For Eternity. |
o---------------------------o
o-----------------------------------------o
| Impaled by a minstrel's violin bow when |
| it flew from the musician's fingers. |
o-----------------------------------------o
--------
Warooi's
--------
Setting: An armourer's shop with a man who has a large moustache and bald head.
Warooi: I'm thinkin' about closing down...Make it snappy, okay?
---- Shows the weapons inventory.
Warooi: Keep an eye out for trouble...It's all around you...Bye...
---- Check the sign next to the target.
o-----------------------------o
| -Sign- |
| You must be THIS tall to |
| throw spears at the target. |
| The Management |
o-----------------------------o
--------------
Jynx Town Hall
--------------
Setting: This is the building with a square lighted doorway and a crest above
it. In the entrance there are stairs going up and sign reading "Jynx Hall of
Love". Old Mac is at the bottom of the stairs.
Old Mac: You want directions, I s'pose. To your left is the library, and
beyond that is the jail, right down the stairs. Upstairs is the
museum.
--- Speak to him again.
Old Mac: Nothing but doom and gloom around here for ages! Cain't stand it
no more!
Library and Jail (please go down the stairs)
--------------------------------------------
Setting: The hallway has a strange perspective looking down, and the library is
through an open doorway.
Miss Blund:Shoo! You aren't allowed in here, you filthy male!
---- Downstairs is the jail with one man in a cell.
Whince: If the gods were to spill their soup, we'd be the ones they'd spill
it on. This town is the pits!
Stinger: What did you do, old timer?
Whince: I was arrested for crimes against inhumanity...
Stinger: You mean 'crimes against humanity', right?
Whince: Nope. I was trying to bash the head of some monster chasing me,
when I was grabbed from behind and thrown in there.
The judge was demented, spouting all kinds of nonsense.
Said he was putting me away for one trillion consecutive life terms
without the possibility of parole!
Stinger: That seems a tad excessive. How can we get you out of there?
Whince: Get out? Why would I want to get out? Where would I be going?
Stinger: ...
Um, to Karillon, maybe?
Whince: Don't think so. Cain't say I like the people much. They have a
funny accent and talk too durn fast.
Stinger: Well, you sure got their number! So, Karillon's out. Still, you'd
like to be free, right? You've been wrongfully jailed!
Whince: Well, now, that ain't for me to say. The law's the law.
Stinger: But...(sigh) Have it your way. Good luck...you'll need it.
Whince: Luck? What is this 'luck' you speak of? Surely you realise that
life is just a comedy of accidents, many of which are lethal!
Stinger: Well, that's one way of looking at things...
All right...May all your accidents be pleasant ones!
Whince: I can live with that. So long...
---- Speak to him again.
Whince: No need to worry 'bout me. Save yourselves if ya can!
Jynx Museum
------------
Setting. Upstairs at the Town Hall, a blue carpeted room with two pictures and
some display cabinets, all seen from a top down angle. Dr. Heend is a white
haired old man standing in a corner next to a white skeleton of sorts.
Dr. Heend: Well, well...I see you're admiring our star attraction!
Stinger: It looks...kinda strange...
Dr. Heend: Yes, very scarce, that. Neopaleoaustolipocamthus used to roam there
parts millions of years ago. Imagine running into something as
frightening as that nowadays!
Stinger: Uh...have you been outside of Jynx recently?
Windleaf: It's downright pretty compared with some of the things roaming
Arkose right now.
Dr. Heend: Don't tease Dr. Heend!
Harv-5: Any traveller can confirm this.
Dr. Heend: Pfaugh! Like I should trust the word of an automaton! You were
probably programmed to say that!
Harv-5: Additionally, I note some curious, if not impossible, anatomical
issues in your reconstruction.
Dr. Heend: Pshaw! To the untrained eye, maybe!
Harv-5: You have mixed the skeletons of several unrelated animals with the
skull of a human being...
Dr. Heend: Nuts to you! Leave the science to scientists!
Harv-5: This is a travesty. I will destroy it.
---- A grey ghostlike figure appears in the middle of the group as they
talk.
Wraith: For decades I have awaited a saviour...
Harv-5: Alert! I detect a spectral entity!
Stinger: Huh? What's a spectral entity, Windleaf?
Windleaf: I have no idea!
Dr. Heend: Philistines...Your robotic chum thinks he sees a ghost.
---- The wraith appears again standing in front of Harv-5.
Wraith: Help me...please...
Harv-5: You...cannot hear anything?
Stinger: Nothing but you, haybrains!
Harv-5: I may be experiencing a...malfunction...
---- The wraith stands behind Windleaf.
Wraith: Wait! Do not leave me!
Windleaf: W...what? Who...who are you?
---- The Wraith disappears again.
Stinger: Oh, give me a break! You hearing spooks now too, Windleaf?
---- The wraith appears standing beside Windleaf.
Wraith: That fiend, there! Heend! He has put my head...HERE, on this pile
of animal bones!
No one has been able to hear me! I hate this place...these people!
I curse this village with every ounce of my strength!
Windleaf: What can we do to make amends?
Wraith: Take my skull...Return it to my grave...This will make thing right..
Harv-5: I see. It will be done. We will place your skull to rest.
Windleaf: Yes.
Stinger: What in Keerg's name are you two babbling about?! Keep your hands
off that skull!
Harv-5: No. I will not abide such desecration.
---- Harv-5 turns and picks up the skull.
o----------------------o
| Took Wraith's Skull! |
o----------------------o
Dr. Heend: Hands off my prize, you synthetic sharecropper! Control him, you!
---- The wraith stands behind Stinger.
Wraith: Boy!! I speak to you, man to man...Warrior to warrior!
Stinger: Yiiiiiii! You guys weren't insane! I hear it now too!
Wraith: You are a man of honour, are you not?
---- Stinger turns around to face him.
Stinger: Uh...yeah. You bet!
Wraith: Then you will see to it that my remains are properly buried. Yes?
Stinger: Yes.
Wraith: Take my remains to the graveyard in Karillon. Place the skull on my
grave. All will be well then. I swear it as a warrior born!
Harv-5: How will we know the proper grave?
Wraith: You'll know where to put it when you get there. Trust me.
---- Dr. Heend moves angrily towards Harv-5.
Dr. Heend: What have you mongrels done?! Give that back to me this instant!
Harv-5: Take one step forward and I'll beat you senseless.
Dr. Heend: Whaaaaaaat?!
Windleaf: It's because of your arrogance that this town has been cursed!
Stinger: Go back to your books and magnifying glasses and leave well enough
alone!
Dr. Heend: I'll never forget this! I'll see you in jail!
Harv-5: If you even do such a thing again I'll make sure your bones are
among those on display!
Stinger: Harv-5! I'm shocked! I love it!
Harv-5: We will leave now. Heed my words, grave robber!
Dr. Heend: Barbarians, one and all!
---- Speak to him again.
Dr. Heend: I've spent my life as a man of science...I'll never live this down..
---- Check out the cabinets, display cases and pictures.
o------------------------o
| Steer with three jaws. |
| Pre-Darg Arkose |
o------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| Siltherian Surgical Equipment |
o-------------------------------o
o-------------------o
| Jynx Town Charter |
| (Original) |
o-------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| Founded on the ancient site |
| of a hunting village, Jynx |
| has become a thoroughly |
| modern city! |
o-----------------------------o
o--------------------------- ----o
| You are looking at the future! |
| One day labour-saving robotic |
| devices... |
o--------------------------------o
o--------------------------------o
| ...will make housework |
| obsolete! |
| Concept robot model donated |
| by the City of Eyre. |
o--------------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| Schematic of robotic |
| biotechnology and mechanisms. |
o-------------------------------o
o--------------------o
| Icon of Angry Baby |
| Artist Unknown |
o--------------------o
o------------------------------o
| Sir Walter Phur |
| Founder of the Jynx Museum |
| Died of a surfeit of barley. |
o------------------------------o
====================
Windleaf as Pointman
====================
Although many of the conversations are unchanged: such as the children, Whince,
and the people in the inn and bar and graveyard, there are major differences
for some conversations.
-----------------
The Mayor's House
-----------------
William: I don't like you.
I don't want YOUR kind here.
Leave! NOW!
I only deal with MEN, thank you!
----------------------
Crescent Valley Market
----------------------
Windleaf: The men and women of Jynx seem to be at war with each other. What's
going on here?
Hilly: Oh dear. You see, I used to be happily married, but I was
delusional then. Now I know the truth about...men!
And when I hear that idiot's hooves clicking on the pavement, I just
want to scream!
Windleaf: Hooves? Hmm...interesting depiction of your husband...
When did you realise...that your husband was a ...
Hilly: Bovine? Well, that's easy! You see...
One evening I suddenly saw...the light! Keerg's Mother be praised!
Windleaf: Light...? Like a flashlight...?
Hilly: Nope.
Windleaf: Headlight...?
Hilly: NO! Honey, I'm talking about...'THE LIGHT!'
I touched the hand of a saint! It was ...a vision...floating in the
air right in front of me.
It was beautiful...heavenly...! I couldn't hear it talk, but I got
a strange feeling form it.
I suddenly knew that William was a grotesque, two-timing steer. I
knew I hated his guts!
Windleaf: Just like that?
Hilly: Just like that! Why I hadn't noticed this before, I'll never know!
Anyway, it took me less than a second to leave him! Praise be to
Her, on high!
Windleaf: Amen...I suppose...Well, thanks for your time.
Hilly: By the way, do you need any supplies? Nest good in the Valley!
Priced to sell!
---- The store menu is displayed.
Hilly: Come back any time!
Windleaf: You know, you seem...awfully happy...too happy, maybe...?
Hilly: I am happy, honey! haven't had a bad day since I felt the rapture!
And as long as you keep those two pigs with you in their place, you
won't have a bad day, either!
---- The party separate.
Stinger: Listen here, lady...I'm no pig!
Windleaf: Stinger...
Hilly: Oink!
Stinger: Keep it up, lady...
Harv-5: Perhaps this 'light' has damaged your eyes, madam.
Hilly: Feh! I don't know what's worse...a pig, or a wooden pig wannabe!
Stinger: All right, that's it! Lady or not, I'm gonna kick your...
Harv-5: She is deranged and hostile. A potential threat.
Windleaf: Stinger!!! Harv-5!!!
Both of you...let's go before this gets out of hand!
Stinger: But...
Windleaf: Please?
Stinger: All right...c'mon Harv-5...
Windleaf: Sorry to bother you, ma'am.
Hilly: That's fine dear. Next time...leave your animals outside, okay?
Stinger: Grrrr...
Hilly: Sure you won't be needing any supplies? Best goods in the Valley!
Priced to sell!
---- The store is open again.
Hilly: Come back any time!
---- They leave and go outside.
Windleaf: Stinger, Harv-5...something is totally wrong here...
Stinger: So, you licked up on that, huh? Nothing slips by you!
Windleaf: You don't have to be such a jerk about it! I was just thinking out
loud...
Stinger: Well, take care not to strain yourself!
Windleaf: At least I have something to strain, bonehead!
Harv-5 Windleaf! Stinger! Snap out of it! What is wrong with you?
Windleaf: Ask him! He started it!
Stinger: Started what? you know, I'm really, REALLY getting tired of you...
Harv-5: QUIET!!!
You are behaving just like the citizens of Jynx.
There is a malaise here. You two must not succumb to it. There
must be some agent, some source of this...malady.
We must continue to search the town. We must work together.
Windleaf: I will if he will...
Stinger: Very well...S...ss...ssss...sorry, Windleaf...(...you wretched
shrew...)
Windleaf: Yeah, whatever...(...what a colossal jerk...)
This place is positively eerie...(But it's starting to grow on me...
...and I know it shouldn't...) Come on. Let's get this over with.
---- They reform as one led by Windleaf.
--------------------
People near the Well
--------------------
Horace and Lotte have different responses.
Horace: I ain't talkin' to the likes of you, ...you...varmint!
Windleaf: Stinger, why don't you talk to the men...They don't seem to be too
keen on women...
Stinger: Yeah...you're right. Who knows what they'll do if Harv-5 talks to
them?!
Harv-5: Hard to say. Perhaps have an intelligent discussion for a change?
Stinger: Well, ha ha ha. See Harv-5, Windleaf? Harv-5 made a funny. Funny
Harv-5!
Windleaf: Come on, guys. Do you always have to bicker?
Stinger: Only when we're awake.
Harv-5: Affirmative.
Windleaf: Sigh...
Lotte: Honey, if you need anything at all, talk to Hilly. She's the owner/
operator of her own dry goods store.
There oughtta be a law...Males and females and...things walking
together!
--------------
Jynx Town Hall
--------------
Setting: The Library.
Miss Blund: Hello, dear. Help yourself to our library resources.
Nothing much of interest, though. Mostly official documents and
such...
Oh...if you MUST use the library, do it quickly and be gone!
---- Check the shelves to find three books to read.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. Revisit Karillon 0044
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
Magic Academy
-------------
Return here on the way back to Karillon.
Spirit: Bring harmony between the men and women of the west. Then shall
ye enter.
-------------------
Oldtowne: Graveyard
-------------------
Setting: Place the skull on the tomb at the left of the graveyard.
Wraith: Thank you for returning my bones!
Stinger: No sweat, glad to help.
Wraith: In return, I will rid the curse disturbing Jynx. And...
I have gifts for you. I wish they will be of service to your
quest...
o------------------o
| Party received: |
| Ranger Armour |
| Ranger Helm |
| Ranger Gauntlets |
| Ranger Sword |
| Reaver Scythe |
o------------------o
--------------
Call on CatMan
--------------
Catman: Welcome travellers.
Gracious! I see you have a little friend with you! A little kitty!
It must be kind of tough taking care of him in the midst of battles
and the like...
Stinger: Well, now that you mention it...
Catman: I have an idea!
Why don't you let me take care of it for you!
Select We've kind of grown fond of it.
Sure, catch!
#Select We've kind of grown fond of it.
Catman: Your choice, of course...But take care of him...I'll know if ya
don't! Bye!
##Select Sure, catch!
Catman: Splendid! I'm sure he'll fit in nicely here.
You have the heart of a tabby and the soul of a manx!
Stinger: Yes...well, thank you!
Catman: And since you've just saved nine lives, allow me to reciprocate!
Stinger: That won't be necessary!
Catman: But I insist! Take these 9 Deathcheats with my compliments!
o-------------------------------o
| You receive 9 Deathcheats!!!! |
o-------------------------------o
Stinger: Thanks! See you later!
===============================================================================
5. MAGIC ACADEMY 0050
===============================================================================
Setting: After completing the two missions, return here, to be met by the
Spirit.
Spirit: Well done. You are recognised as champions of justice. The test
has ended. Enter.
Stinger: Thanks. Let's go!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Inside the Academy 0051
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------
The Atrium
----------
Setting: The three of them stand facing a central space that is circled by a
low fence. Lower floors can be seen below, and there are plants growing around
the sides of the Atrium. A half transparent man appears to the right.
Stinger: Place is huge...Quiet as a tomb, though!
Fessen: You're tardy...and even less impressive than I imagined...
Stinger: Thanks, bub! You're quite the stud, though.
Windleaf: Stinger! Shhhh! Uh, late for what...sir?
Fessen: Call me Fessen, for that is my name.
The masters were expecting you some time ago. I fear they've all
gone to their chambers for meditation.
Windleaf: Can you wake them up! It's awfully important, uh, Fessen. We bear
a message from the Council in Karillon.
Fessen: Of course you do. But I will not wake them...YOU will!
You see, if I were to awaken them I'd be reduced to a zot, and
forced to harden on a table somewhere...
Stinger: You gonna explain that at all?
Fessen: You wouldn't understand...At any rate, you need to commune directly
with the four masters...
Stinger: Four? There are only FOUR left? I thought this was a school?
Where are all the teachers? What can four people do?
Fessen: All in good time, lad! Suffice it to say that magic went out of
vogue decades ago...
...about the time the Gadgeteers started peddling their cheap
electronic toys and devices. People found a new religion, I
suppose.
Harv-5: That is your opinion. Like voices, we are have one.
Fessen: At any rate, you must meet the Masters yourself, one at a time. It
is our way.
This institution has been opened for your inspection. You may
explore as you see fit. I am also commanded to...welcome you.
Stinger: Gee...wasn't that heartfelt?! I'm positively glowing...
Fessen: Irony! Quite refreshing! At any rate, I shall be nearby should you
need anything.
Be seeing you.
---- Fessen disappears.
---------------------------------
The Blue Door: The Guest Quarters
---------------------------------
Setting: This is the Guest Quarters. There are three mattresses on the floor
and a small cupboard.
Fessen: Salutations. We must stop meeting like this, no?
Stinger: Yes...!
Fessen: These will be your quarters. Please rest for a while.
Windleaf: Thank you for your kindness.
Fessen: Your journey has tired you, and you will need your energy for later.
Be seeing you!
---- Fessen disappears.
Stinger: You know. I'm already sick of that guy.
Harv-5: He's quite agile and quick for a human of considerable age.
Windleaf: Well, a lifetime among the Magi surely comes with benefits!
Stinger: I don't think creepiness is a benefit. Not one that I'd want,
anyway.
Windleaf: (sigh)
---- Check the chest and the picture.
o-----------------o
| It's a chest. |
| Look in drawer? |
| |
| Yes |
| No |
o-----------------o
#Select Yes.
o-----------------------------------o
| For emergency use only! |
| Contains Mercurialis, Saccharum, |
| Cadmia Principa, Sal Ammoniac, |
| Congelated Puna and other healing |
| tinctures and hermetic salves. |
o-----------------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Gamathel's Tower at Dusk |
| By Master Helios |
o--------------------------o
-----------------------------------
The Orange Door: Brendan's Chambers
-----------------------------------
Setting: A small room with bed on top of some cupboards and some pictures and a
cupboard. Brendan is a bald headed man wearing a green jumper.
Brendan: Welcome. I would look into each of your eyes.
Stinger: Beg pardon?
Brendan: I need to gaze into your eyes. Hold still!
There, that wasn't so bad was it? It is our way.
Windleaf: Sir, we've come from Karillon with a message.
Brendan: Yes. We will discuss it when we meet later.
Alva's right, Windleaf. You are of the Greater Body...You are
quite...unique.
Stinger: Keerg's bones...She's a little young for you, don't you think?
Windleaf: Stinger!
Brendan: No. It's not what you think. All will be explained.
Please continue on, deeper into the facility. Be seeing you.
---- Speak to him again.
Brendan: Please make your way below. All will be revealed in time.
----------------------------------
Pale Brown Door: Hall of Gathering
----------------------------------
Setting: An empty hall with hanging lamps and a raised platform.
------------------------------
Cream Door: Un-named Storeroom
------------------------------
Setting: A storeroom with various items and books and a cupboard.
---- Check the room.
o------------------------o
| Broken medicine urn... |
o------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| The label reads |
| 'Bad smelling viscous fluid'. |
| Hmm..Looks like bad wine! |
| Take some? |
| Sure. |
| Are you kidding? |
o-------------------------------o
#Select Sure.
Stinger: What the heck. Someone might buy this!
---- o---------------------o
| The bottle is empty |
o---------------------o
##Select Are you kidding?
Stinger: We can get enough of this in Karillon. No thanks!
---- Check the pile of books. (The Malleutopus Malefisilium )
Stinger: Hmm...is this fiction or...something else?
...someone else can figure it out...!
----------------------------
Orange Door: Alva's Chambers
----------------------------
Setting: A small room with a high bed set on top of cupboards and an elderly
man with a long white beard.
Alva: What is it now, Fessen?
Windleaf: Uh, sorry, sir, but it's not Fessen. My name is Windleaf. I'm here
with my friends Harv-5 and Stinger.
Alva: Oh, gracious! My eyes aren't what they used to be. Lost most of my
vision a couple of centuries ago.
Still, my spirit serves me pretty well...
And right now I'd say I've struck the jackpot!
Stinger: Oh, man, not again! What's with you mangy old farts, anyway?
Haven't you ever seen a girl before?
Alva: Yes, just not one wiTH this much potential. Been, oh, I'd say
around 352 years since I was in the presence of someone of her
caliber!
What a fine day this is for us!
Harv-5: What do you mean, 'her calibre?'
Alva: There is much we can teach her. She can become an ally of untold
power. Though she will have to remain here some time...
But listen to me! I'm gabbing away like a schoolboy. You'll need
to keep running along until you find the others.
All will be revealed in time. Be seeing you.
---- Speak to him again.
Alva: Scoot along now! Let an old man rest...
---- Check the bed.
Stinger: Trying to climb into bed each night would give you a day's worth of
exercise.
-----------------------
Cream Door: The Museuem
-----------------------
Setting: A large room on two floors dominated by a skeleton of a prehistoric
animal.
Harv-5: Amazing. Even the Gadgeteers would find this place interesting.
Stinger: Gives me the creeps...Why would anyone hang bones from their
ceiling?
Harv-5: That is an ancient specimen, removed from the bowels of Arkose.
It is part of your legacy, Stinger. Part of who you are. Where
your people came from.
Stinger: You tellin' me that's my grandpappy?
Harv_5: In a manner of speaking.
Stinger: Right...now I've heard everything! At least I didn't spawn from a
bucket, like you did...
---- Check the shelves.
Stinger: Who knows where these things came from...or how they got here?!
---- Check the pictures.
o------------------------------o
| ---Imprint of Chaos Shard--- |
o------------------------------o
o--------------------------------------o
| Found in the Caves Beneath, this |
| rock shows the effect a chaos shard |
| had on it over several centuries. |
| Note stress lines, powderisation and |
| evidence of element displacement |
| phenomenon (EDP). |
o--------------------------------------o
---- Check the picture of a sword.
o------------------o
| ---Darg Sword--- |
o------------------o
o-------------------------------------o
| One of only a few weapons |
| retrieved from the mysterious Darg. |
o-------------------------------------o
Stinger: Darg...?
o----------------------------------------o
| Imbued with anti-magic, it had |
| to be leached of its power for decades |
| before it could be displayed here. |
o----------------------------------------o
---- Check the case.
o----------------------o
| Mummified remains of |
| Khytynni Warrior. |
o----------------------o
o----------------------o
| Found in the Western |
| Siltherian desert by |
| A. Farr in 435. |
o----------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| Once thought to be mythical |
| beasts these warriors are |
| amongst the world's most deadly. |
| They will stop at nothing |
| in their quest to destroy |
| us, who they see as infidels. |
| woe be to any who encounter |
| them in the wild. There |
| will be death! |
o----------------------------------o
-----------------------------
Turquoise Door: Storage Vault
-----------------------------
Setting: Another Store Room with empty shelves and a few items.
---- Check the shelves.
o-------------------------------------------o
| --Student Lockers-- |
| Not responsible for lost of stolen items. |
| Keep tidy at all times. |
| No explosive tinctures allowed. |
o-------------------------------------------o
---- Check the turquoise pot.
o-------------------------------o
| Pickled leavings of underhog. |
| Do not disturb. |
| Really. We mean it. |
o-------------------------------o
---- Check the small chest.
o----------------------------------o
| --Packing Slip-- |
| Contains one Siltherian Chapnut, |
| Do not remove product tags |
| under penalty of doom. |
o----------------------------------o
---------------------------
Beige Door: The Unused Room...
---------------------------
Setting: A room with elegant furniture, a wardrobe, bed and long mirror, desk
and chair. As they enter Fessen materialises.
Fessen: Note anything interesting about this room?
Windleaf: It makes me feel a little nauseous. The air, maybe?
Fessen: Not the air. The former inhabitant. This was Hokum's room...
Stinger: Yeah? That name supposed to mean something to us?
Fessen: It will, in time. But...the room does not effect you two?
Stinger: A room's a room...
Harv-5: Negative.
Fessen: Feh! Just as I thought. Not of the Greater Body.
Most of hokum's belongings have been carted away and destroyed.
Careful what you touch! Be seeing you.
---- Fessen disappears.
Stinger: Ooh! I hate it when he does that!
---- Check out the wardrobe.
Stinger: No, on second thought I won't open this...
I have that "I;m about to fall down an elevator shaft!" sort of
feeling...
---- Check out the mirror.
Stinger: It looks like a mirror...but it doesn't reflect...? Go figure...
------------
Second Visit
------------
Stinger: Hard to believe...the enemy once lived here.
------------------------------------
Pale Brown Door: Alchemical Workshop
------------------------------------
Setting: A large glass fronted cabinet and a bench with measuring instruments
on it, and a blackboard with writing on it.
Stinger: Check out this chalkboard!
Combine Filings of Luna, Oil of Tartar, Ashes of Luna, Oil of
Sulphur, Coagulation of Mercury...
Oil of Mercury, Alumen of Pluma, and various elemental cements.
Deliver to GM Helios at 2600.
Stinger: What went on here?!
---- Check the cabinet.
o---------------------------------------------o
| This section contains: |
| Marcasites, cachymiae, talc, cobalt, zinc |
| granite, zwitter, bismuth, antimony, salt |
| and vitriol. |
| |
| For purposes of mineral mortification only. |
o---------------------------------------------o
o-------------------------------------------------o
| This section contains: |
| The red and green tinctures, Oil of Sol, |
| Oil of Antimony and the Arcanum of Nature. |
| |
| Caustic! Rinse eyes thoroughly if splashed |
| therein. Use protective eye gear at all times. |
o------------------------------------------------o
---- Check the gurney.
o-----------------------o
| The surface is rough. |
| Touch it? |
| Yes |
| No |
o-----------------------o
#Select: Yes.
Stinger: Lots of small cuts on this gurney... I'd wager many...things...have
been dissected here!
##Select: No.
Stinger: Hmmm...Think I'll pass on that.
---- Check the round thing in the corner.
o----------------------------------o
| ---DISSOLVIUM 42--- |
| For the transmutations of metals |
| and certain vapour-cements only. |
| Caution! |
o----------------------------------o
------------------------------
Orange/Pink Door: Leisure Room
------------------------------
Setting: A fountain in a corner, a table and bench and an urn in the corner.
---- Check the urn.
o-----------------------o
| Smelly old tea dregs. |
o-----------------------o
---- Check the yellow item.
o----------------------o
| Items picked up: |
| Gold 250 |
| Order Arrow 10 |
o----------------------o
-------------------------
Cream/White Door: Library
-------------------------
Setting: One wall is filled with bookshelves. There is an entrance platform
with a couple of chairs.
---- Check out the book on the table on the main floor. This is another
volume of the World Compendium of History. Decide not to read it.
Stinger: Maybe some other time. Better to focus on the now, and the what
will be!
---- Check out the sparkle in the shelves. Refuse to read.
Stinger: Tempting...but there's so much to do elsewhere!
---- Check out the right hand shelf. Refuse to read.
Stinger: The wonders that lie within this book must wait.
---------------------------------------
Bright Turquoise Door: Helios' Chambers
---------------------------------------
Setting. A small room with a green rug and green covered bed. There is a
table and a chair, and a glass fronted tall cabinet. Helios is dressed in a
white robe with a white hat and he has a grey beard.
Helios: Ah, yes! Fessen mentioned we had guests. Have you enjoyed your
star so far?
Stinger: It's a little lonely in here...Where has everyone gone?
Helios: Well, that's a long story...We've had the gates shut for well nigh
100 years now.
A few students have come from time to time, but public interest in
spiritual matters has dwindled steadily for quite a long time.
Harv-5: Are you talking a out magic or religion?
Helios: Same difference, lad.
And of course there was the problem with Hokum...Most unfortunate...
Harv-5: We have seen his chamber. It has been sterilised. And yet Windleaf
felt something odd.
Helios: Not surprising. Damon Hokum was one of our great failures.
His spirit was a dark, oily stain by the time he left us.
You probably detected a residue of his aura, Windleaf. So great was
his power...and evil.
Stinger: Well, he's got a good name for an evil goon.
I mean, who'd name a kid 'Damon' anyway? Sounds like an
undertaker...
Helios: Uh...right...right...At any rate, do you want to hear the tale of
Hokum, or continue on your way?
Let's hear it.
Think I've heard enough...
#Select Think I've heard enough.
Helios: Right, well, continue on your way. You have much left to see. Be
seeing you.
##Select Let's hear it.
Helios: Hokum was once our finest student. He was to be my replacement. He
was...like a son to me...
While out on a walkabout...which we encourage ALL of our students to
do before they end their training...
Stinger: Huh?
Helios: ...Hokum made a discovery which changed...everything.
He was on the continent of Siltheria when he hound an ancient text,
a book now known as the Darg Kahier.
Hokum brought the book back here, and began the work of translating
it.
He'd found a small stone tablet that showed some of the Darg script
next to an ancient, but well-known Arkosian script.
Regrettably, he was able to make a translation chart. In a short
time, he was able to read the book.
Until then, Hokum was a quiet student, soft-spoken and respectful.
But the book changed that... For the worse.
Stinger: Reading a book made him a jerk?!
Helios: He became a loudmouth braggart, insolent and lewd.
Before long, he revealed what he had done. Proudly, I might add.
Well, when I learned of his deeds, I confronted him. I instructed
him to hand over the book.
He agreed and left to fetch it... I never saw him afterward.
Windleaf: What could be so dangerous about a book?
Harv-5: You are a mage. So was Hokum. Why would information be a threat?
Helios: Good questions...
Legend has it that the book's primary function was to summon a kind
of magical energy...
Energy far more powerful than any kind we know here on Arkose.
Hokum desired power. But it turns out the book itself had a desire.
Stinger: A book with a desire?! What kind of tea are you drinking, old man?
Helios: Bear with me... You see, the book functioned as a dimensional access
way, a kind of sewer, if you will.
In the same way that any book can open up new possibilities for a
reader, this book opened up a host of new potentialities...
Stinger: Can break that down into plain language?
Helios: My apologies. The book was, in reality, an enchanted gate. A
connecting point between two realities.
Harv-5: So, in reading the tome, Hokum opened a doorway to another place.
Helios: Precisely. Another place...and a powerful presence.
Ultimately, the book was bait in a trap set by a foe long thought
dead...an ancient power known as the Darg.
Spirits charged with negative mana flowed freely into Arkose...
Dark heralds of the 'Black Surge' that crushed most of Arkose long
ago...
Windleaf: Oh...oh my...Keerg preserve our souls...
Stinger: So this book was a trap, and this Hokum guy sprung it like an idiot.
What happened next?
Helios: Hokum fled back to Siltheria. We lost track of him there...or
rather, what he had become.
With the aid of dark powers, he was able to conceal his exact
whereabouts from us.
However, we believe ha made it to Wyldern...
Stinger: Will-derm? Where's that?
Helios: Smack dab under your feet. (Cough...cough...)
Harv-5: Hokum turned himself into flooring?
Helios: Of course not!
(Bloody robot...)
Hokum made it to the bubble world that exists within Arkose.
Windleaf: Bubble world...? Within Arkose?!??
Helios: Yes. There's another culture down there. Other races...For reasons
lost in time, it was sealed off. No one's been there for ages.
Stinger: Keerg's teeth...And this Hokum guy's down there? Place can't be
very bright and shiny...
Helios: That, young man, is an understatement. (Cough...cough...)
Windleaf: Are you all right, Helios?
Helios: I'm fine. Thanks for your concern. Now, where was I? Oh, yes...
With the Darg as both ally and power source, Hokum is possibly the
most dangerous being on the planet.
And now, it would seem, he...or it...is on a mission...
(Cough...cough...)
Windleaf: This is unbelievable! It sound like some kind of legend or
something.
Helios: Oh, I wish it were. (Cough...cough...) There's much more to
share...but I find I quickly grow fatigued these days...
you continue on your way down to the Etherwell. When you've talked
to everyone, we'll assemble there.
Stinger: Yeah...sure...whatever...
Helios: That is our way. Be seeing you.
---- Speak to him again.
Helios: Please move along, young ones. I need to meditate.
---- Check the book and read one section and then stop.
Stinger: Hoo boy....this is awful...makes no sense. No wonder students
stopped training here!
----------------------------
Pink Door: Unnamed Storeroom
----------------------------
Setting: Another storeroom with empty shelves and a couple of items.
---- Check the blue item on the floor. Ullk Oil 1.
---- Check the shelves.
o-----------------------------o
| Old board games with pieces |
| missing, comic books with |
| the covers torn off, broken |
| toys and scrap books. |
o-----------------------------o
----------------------------------
Pale Beige Door: Cecelia's Chamber
----------------------------------
Setting: Another small bedroom with a green covered bed and some shelves and a
cupboard. Cecelia is a woman dressed in deep turquoise with a pointed hat.
Stinger: Excuse us...Lessen told us to speak with you...
Cecelia: Yes, yes...and you obeyed. Smart move on your part.
I find disobedience VERY annoying...Brings out the worst in me.
Makes me wanna turn people into frogs.
Stinger: F-frogs...?!
Cecelia: Yep. And believe me, honey...you'd look lousy as a frog.
Stinger: (gulp) Okay...so...
Cecelia: Yes? Spit it out, blondie!
Stinger: Um...now what?
Kecelia: Well, that depends...I can give you a high-five and you can all
leave.
Or we can work out a solution to your problem.
Stinger: I kind of like the "solution" option here.
Kecelia: I thought you might. And you, dear...you must be Windleaf.
Windleaf: Uh, yes ma'am.
Kecelia: I haven't been called "ma'am" in centuries. You may call me
Kecelia.
Harv-5: ...because that is your name.
Kecelia: Uh, quite so...Say...you have something of Metaboline about you,
robot. I can't quite put my finger on it, though...
Harv_5: I have never been to Metaboline. Perhaps some of my materials are
from there?
Kecelia: Highly unlikely. The place disappeared long ago...Most curious...
At any rate...Windleaf...I'm glad to see you dear. There's only
been one of us here for decades!
Windleaf: One of "us...?"
Kecelia: Women, of course! You will find it interesting here. There is much
for you to learn.
Windleaf: But I won't be staying. We came to deliver a message.
Kecelia: No dear. We made sure YOU were sent to us.
We summoned you here for a reason. All of you...
I'll let Helios tell you what that reason is. He is the Grand Mage,
after all. Head to the Etherwell once you've spoken to us all.
Windleaf: We will, ma'am...er, Kecelia.
Kecelia: Good for you, dear. Be seeing you.
---- Speak to her again.
Kecelia: And they wonder why I never had children. Move along, you imps!
---- Check the items in the room.
------------------------------------
Turquoise Door: Unnamed Storage Room
------------------------------------
Setting: Another empty room with barrels and shelves. This appears to be a
wine cellar. There is a green item.
o---------------------o
| Items picked up: |
| Gold 50 |
| Aether Drop 3 |
o---------------------o
---- Check the items in the room for their descriptions.
o---------------------o
| Chateau de Karillon |
| Red Wine |
| Vintage: 441 |
| Contains sulfites |
| Alc. 13% by volume |
o---------------------o
o------------------------------o
| Bone's Hill Lazyberry Wine |
| Fortified for your enjoyment |
| Vintage: N/A |
| Alc. 23% by volume |
o------------------------------o
---------
Grey Door
----------
The next door is locked.
-------------
The Etherwell
-------------
Setting: A room with grass and plants and benches surrounding a central large
round cloudy white "well" set in stone. All the Mages are there and the party
of Stinger, Harv-5 and Windleaf are standing separately.
Helios: We are gathered! A decision has been made. It is our way.
Mages: It is our way...
Helios: They are among us. Their burden is great.
Mages: They are among us.
Helios: They will help us, and we them. For that is our way...
Mages: That is our way...
Kecelia: The 'open vessel' is here. Her friends are at her side. We must
guide them all, for that is our duty...
Helios: Listen well, young visitors. I speak for the Greater Body...For all
that have come, for all that follow.
Mages: For all...
Stinger: Uh, hellooooo...anybody home?
Keerg knows we've been patient about all this, but we need answers
now! What is all this gobbledygook about?!
Helios: Ah! Keerg! Fine chap. But, alas, his is another story...
Here, then, are the answers you seek. With them, a path for each of
you to travel.
Kecelia: You wish to know who killed your families.
Alva: The culprit is, ultimately, Damon Hokum...Or whatever he has become.
Brendan: He has fled to Wyldern. Somehow he has found quick transit between
the worlds.
Kecelia: Wyldern is a dark place, just right for the power that seethes in
him like a nest of snakes...
Helios: We believe there might be a way to stop Hokum. It involves a rare
book, the Natragor Codex.
Kecelia: The tome is in possessions of a colleague, Gamathel. He dwells in a
tower on the continent of Siltheria.
Alva: Gamathel is...eccentric. He dislikes travel, and will not leave his
tower.
Helios: However, he will allow us to use the Codex. This we know.
Brendan: The Tome contains knowledge of the spell that will sever Hokum's
connection to infernal power.
Kecelia: It also contains remedies for the wave of chaos-sickness we have
perceived spreading out over the land.
Windleaf: I've been wondering about that. Everywhere we go, we find madmen...
It's getting pretty bad.
Brendan: Indeed. It is hard to tune out the thoughts of the mad. As their
numbers grow, so does out burden...and pain.
Helios: As you can see, time is of the essence.
Stinger: Heh. You sound like Harv-5 there.
Windleaf: Stinger! Show some respect!
Helios: Ahem.
Windleaf: Sorry, sir.
Helios: As I was saying... Will you go to Gamathel's Tower? Will you bring
us the Natragor Codex?
Windleaf: Of course.
Harv-5: I will postpone my journey to Eyre to accompany these tow. I will
help my friends.
Stinger: Now hold on. What about Karillon? You guys gonna help them out?
Helios: But of course. We can't really begin without the Codex, however...
Stinger: Oh. Yeah...okay. Heh heh...got a point there.
Mages: ...
Stinger: Sure. I'm in. When do we leave?
Helios: So be it. Stinger and Harv-5... Please return to your quarters
upstairs.
Kecelia: Windleaf, could you spare us a moment or two?
Windleaf: Um...okay. Be up in a moment, guys.
Stinger: You're sure...?
Windleaf: Yes! Go! I'll be right there.
---- Stinger and Harv-5 walk off.
Helois: Dear, I'm afraid you cannot accompany your friends...
Windleaf: What are you talking about?
Kecelia: Those two can more than adequately accomplish that task. But they
cannot help you with yours.
Windleaf: Which is...
Brendan: Your task is to, shall we say, jump-start your abilities? You must
be infused...you are ready...It is your time...
---- Brendan moves closer to Windleaf, who is standing with her back to
the Etherwell.
Windleaf: I don't like this...Please get away from me!
Alva: I know the feeling. Had the same reaction myself. But you won't
regret it! None of us have...
---- Windleaf turns around to face the other three mages who are standing
at the left and right of the Etherwell.
Windleaf: You stay away from me. ALl the time you were just pretending... You
aren't here to help us! You're evil!
Kecelia: No dear...we're actually very good. But we need YOUR help now. You
know we're not here to hurt you. Search within yourself...!
Helios: The Etherwell has been prepared. You...will become one of us. A
glorious fate, I assure you!
---- Fessen, who has all the time been standing quietly in the background
now moves forward to come behind Windleaf.
Helios: Now, Fessen! NOW!
---- Fessen pushes Windleaf into the Etherwell where she falls and
disappears in the milky cloudy pool. It begins to glow and pulsate.
Helios: I hated to do that...but...times being what they are... Didn't have
much choice...
Brendan: She'll be fine. At least she'll understand... Probably does so
already.
Helios: Fessen, you tell the others to get on their way.
Kercelia: Tell them that Windleaf has decided to stay until their return.
Alva: Tell them she is in training to boost her powers...tell them
whatever you need to, but get them on their way...
Fessen: As you command, Magi. It is...our way...
---- Fessen leaves and the scene changes to the Guest Room where he
appears to speak to Stinger and Harv-5.
Fessen: ...so, gentlemen, Windleaf will not accompany you on your journey.
Her studies must begin immediately.
Harv-5: This is unfortunate. We are not accustomed to being understaffed.
Stinger: I still say something's not right! Why didn't she come tell us
herself?
Harv-5: That is irregular. Windleaf...enjoys talking.
Stinger: Yeah, I mean she would have wanted to come and tell us everything on
her mind!
Fessen: It was a tough decision for her, but she is a serious young woman.
She realises that there is no time to waste. I'm sure you
understand.
---- Fessen disappears.
Stinger: Whatever... I still think something smells...
Harv-5: We are in Arkose's most hallowed institution of higher learning...
We must trust our hosts and focus on our task.
Stinger: Speaking of which, how in Keerg's green teeth are we gonna make it
to Siltheria?
All the ships were destroyed when Port Lochane was hit!
Harv-5: I do not know. We must make for the northeast coast. There must be
boats there. We will find a way.
Stinger: I hope you're right. Anyway, this place gives me the creeps. I'll
just be happy to get away from Fessen.
Harv-5: Affirmative.
---- They join together and finish talking. Check the beds.
---- o--------------------------o
| Care for a quick snooze? |
| Sure |
| Nope |
o--------------------------o
----
Exit
----
Setting: After returning to the entrance to the Magic Academy the party finds
that the door is still locked.
Stinger: Oh, this is just great. Now we're locked in here!
Harv-5: This is troubling. Perhaps we should...
---- Fessen suddenly appears.
Fessen: Actually, you won't be leaving that way. We had to lock that door.
Too many beasties outside.
---- They turn around to face him.
Fessen: Go to the bottom level, near where the meeting at the Etherwell took
place. A new door has been unlocked...
There you will find the exit leading to the Chunnel, our tunnel
passage to Siltheria.
Stinger: Why the hell didn't you tell us this before?
Fessen: Humph... It must have slipped my mind. Wait until you're 344 years
old!
Harv-5: Has...anything else important slipped from your head?
Fessen: No, not that I can remember... Feel free to use the new exit and
entrance as you see fit. Be seeing you.
Stinger: Come on, Harv-5. Any motion is better than no motion at all. Let's
give this Chunnel a whirl!
On the way back down all the mages rooms are now locked.
---------------------------
Grey Door: Chunnel Entrance
---------------------------
Setting: A wide corridor made of stone and lit with a pale blue light.
Stinger: Hmm...What the hell's a 'Chunnel' anyway, Harv-5?
---- Fessen appears.
Fessen: It it s transcontinental tunnel network. A design of Grand Mage
Herkimer.
---- Stinger jumps up in shock and annoyance.
Stinger: Gaaaaah! I hate it when you do that!
Fessen: As I was saying, the Chunnel connects Khelestra to Siltheria. You
may use it for your journey.
Harv-5: This structure is safe?
Fessen: That's what they tell me.
Though you should watch out for collapsing corridors, rolling
spherical boulders that might crush you...that kind of thing...
Stinger: Pay a nickel, come see the funny man!
Fessen: Just trying to lighten your spirits.
Harv-5: Stinger. It is time to egress.
Stinger: Nah, let's just get outta here, Harv-5. We'll deal with this clown
later.
Fessen: Be seeing you, I'm sure.
---- He disappears.
Stinger: Hoo brother...
Harv-5: At least the Magi saw fit to give us magic items.
Stinger: Yeah! I hope these Fire Charms do the stuff!
o-------------------------------o
| Fire Twitch Attacks unlocked. |
o-------------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| To use, press the X and |
| Circle buttons in rapid |
| succession once you've chosen |
| your attack method. |
o-------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Old Gulbrath 0052
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just to the south of Old Gubrath is a large white sun.
o-----------------------o
| Mag, the sun, shining |
| down brightly on his |
| children. |
o-----------------------o
Just north of Old Gubrath there are two small stick figures.
o--------------------o
| Ode to "The Twins" |
o--------------------o
--------
The Town
--------
Setting: The docks and buildings of a town. The place appears to be deserted
although some houses are still undamaged.
Stinger: Hmm...These docks aren't in bad shape. Hope they get used again!
-----------------
Assembly of Keerg
-----------------
Setting: A large church type building, with a lectern and tumbled pews.
Stinger: Looks like an old church. Too bad it's all busted up.
Harv-5: The souls of the departed elders are enshrined here.
Stinger: Don't see too many of these any more.
Harv-5: It has been desecrated. The enemy seeks to demoralise. Hit where
it hurts the most.
---- Check the painting at the back of the church.
o-------------------o
| 'The Great Keerg |
| battles his inner |
| demons.' |
o-------------------o
---- Check the box.
o----------------o
| Donation box. |
| Support Keerg, |
| and spread his |
| word! |
o----------------o
----------------------
Old Gubrath Resort Inn
----------------------
Setting: The entrance lobby and inn reception is undamaged. There is one room
leading off from this area. A chandelier looks out of place.
Aviloo: Seen any good shadows lately?
Stinger: You're a million laughs...
Aviloo: What a relief! I was just checking to see if you were...polluted
like the others...
Harv-5: For some reason we have not yet been affected...I stress the word
"yet..."
Aviloo: Well, that makes us a unique little group, eh?
Stinger: You should get out of here...Karillon seems a lot safer than this
place...
Aviloo: Hey, Old Gubrath is my life...Everyone and everything I know is
here...I'm sticking it out until the bitter end.
Now, how about a room for the night?
Yes
No
#Select No thanks...
Aviloo: Gotta tell ya, it's nice to see some sane people!
##Select Yes.
Aviloo: Gotta tell ya, it's nice to see some sane people!
---- Speak to him again.
Aviloo: Want a room for the night? The cost is 300 gold.
Stinger: No thanks...
Aviloo: Take 'er easy, now!
---- Check the bottle on the table.
o--------------------------------o
| A light libation... |
| 'Catch 22 brand Malt Libation' |
o--------------------------------o
o--------------------------------o
| Beverage Slogan: |
| 'It ails ya, but it's for what |
| ails ya...it's Catch 22!' |
o--------------------------------o
Inside the Bedroom
------------------
---- Check the bed.
o--------------------------o
| No bouncing on the lower |
| bunk! |
| The Management |
o--------------------------o
---- Check the pots
o----------------------------o
| Chamber pots, conveniently |
| supplied in large, medium |
| and small sizes depending |
| on your urgency. |
| The Management |
o----------------------------o
-----------------
Chauncey's Goods.
-----------------
Setting: a shop with a couple of fishing rods hanging on one wall and a counter
behind which stand a yellow haired man, Chauncey.
Chauncey: All right, ye dog-sons! I won't go down wi'out a fight!
Stinger: Hold on! We're not here to fight!
Chauncey: Izzat so? All the other freaks that come in here have!
Stinger; We're freaks of a different breed...Okay?
Chauncey: Oh, this's rich...a punk wif an attitude, and his side-kick, a
Gadgeteer spy...!
Harv-5: I am not equipped with spy gear...We mean you no harm...
Chauncey: Well...see to it that ya don't make any sudden moves! Can't be too
careful these days. Since the madness, that is.
Harv-5: How long has the town been like this?
Chauncey: Couple weeks, now. Ever since Hornhead attacked...
Stinger: Hornhead?
Chauncey: Ah-yup. Big fella...big ole horns comin' out of his noggin'.
Shot fire outta his hands too. Was the durndest thing!
Stinger: You got a good look, then!
Chauncey: Oh, yeah! Took him a good half hour to blow the tar outta the town!
Harv-5: Yet it only took seconds for our homes to fall.
Stinger: Maybe he's getting weaker!
Harv-5: Or perhaps he's taking his own good time...
Stinger: Yeah...that could be too. Either way, we should tell the Magi.
Chauncey: Pfaugh...! The Magi! Fat lotta good they did us!
Stinger: What do you mean?
Chauncey: Them mongrels hid in their hole while that thing blew us to hell!
Stinger: Don't be so quick to judge! They're doing their best to help.
Chauncey: Their best ain't good enough!
Stinger: Easy for you to say, holed up in this shop!
Chauncey: Yeah? Well...touche'...
---- Speak to him again
Chauncey: Don't suppose ya want to buy anything?
---- The shop screen is shown.
Chauncey: Good luck! Ye'll damn sure be needin' it!
---- Check the rods and lamp.
o-----------------o
| 'Duelling Rods' |
o-----------------o
o-----------------------o
| Performance art piece |
| by Chauncey. |
o-----------------------o
o-----------------------o
| Custom-made fish skin |
| lamp shades. In four |
| colours. |
o-----------------------o
o-----------------------o
| Radiates the fragrant |
| smell of cooking fish |
| while in use. |
o-----------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Contact Chaucey to order. |
o---------------------------o
-------------------
Old Gubrath Stables
-------------------
Setting: This is the large central brown building, and indeed it is a stables
though there no animals, just a crazed kid.
Kid: I'm hiding here from my shadow. It keeps doing bad things to me...
---- Speak to him again a few times.
Kid: Have you seen my shadow?
My shadow will hurt you...
Don't tell my shadow I'm here!
---- Check the items in the building.
o-------------------------o
| This tub is filled with |
| stagnant water.... |
o-------------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| Standard oil lamp fuelled by |
| the blubber of deep-diving Skra |
| Behemoths. |
o----------------------------------o
---- Go up the ladder to the roof.
---- Check the hay.
o-----------------o
| Bales of...hay? |
o-----------------o
-----------------------------
The House with the White Door
-----------------------------
Setting: A room full of broken stuff and blood. There is a person standing in
front of a large fireplace. It is a woman with pink hair and grey skin.
Stinger: Hello.
Woman: WAAAAAAGH!
Harv-5: Something is amiss...
Stinger: Either that or this Miss is "a something"...like cracked!
Woman: HEEEEEAAAGH!
Harv-5: Take a deep breath.
Woman: Sigh...phew...oh dear...
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGH!
Stinger: Lady! Stop screaming!
Woman: Can't...can't stop...Can't...
Stinger: Uh, oh...
Woman: HOOAAAAAAAAAGH!
Harv-5: Most peculiar.
Woman: She...she hates my voice...!
Stinger: Who? Who hates your voice?
Woman: Sh...sh......My...shaaad...shadowaaaaaaaaaaaaaaagh!
Harv-5: Another reference to shadows.
Woman: SHADOW! YES! SHADOW HATES VOICE! SHADOW HATES ALL! HATES YOU!
Stinger: I think we better beat feet. This could get ugly...
------------------
Old Gubrath Beacon
------------------
Setting: They are on the bottom floor, inside the lighthouse that stands on the
shoreline. There are some pieces of furniture and stairs leading up.
Stinger: Place looks pretty deserted. Better check to see if anyone's here.
---- Check the items in this room.
o-----------------------------o
| Sea chest containing old |
| oilskins, waterproof gloves |
| and corncob pipes. |
o-----------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| It's a map of Arkose showing |
| the continents of Khelestra, |
| Siltheria and Dantyr... |
| ...and the Sea of Immensity |
| upon which they float. |
o------------------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| Standard oil lamp fueled by |
| the blubber of deep-diving Skra |
| Behemoths. |
o----------------------------------o
---- They climb up the stairs to the lamp room.
Stinger: Wheeew! Something smells foul!
---- Check the body.
Stinger: Must be the keeper...What's left of him, anyway.
---- Check the central lamp.
Stinger: This is the second biggest candle I have ever seen...
---- Check the crate.
o-------------o
| Empty crate |
o-------------o
---- Check the large chest.
o--------------------------o
| Contents: |
| 300 corncob pipes. |
| Keep away from moisture. |
o--------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Union made in Dantyr by |
| Commercial Cobbery, Inc. |
o--------------------------o
---- o-------------------------o
| Cabinet contains raw |
| beeswax for maintaining |
| the lighthouse's light |
| source. |
o-------------------------o
--------------------
Smashed Yellow House
--------------------
Setting: This is a broken and roofless house. The door is off its hinges and
there is a man in here.
Stinger: Hey...Mister...
Man: H...hell...hell...h...!!!
Stinger: Jeez, spit it out already! Hello! Right? You're trying to say
hello!
Man: Nn...nn...noooooo...I was...hoping to curse you to eternal
damnation. As in, 'Go to ...h...he...'
Harv-5: Explain please. You should not feel such hatred towards a stranger.
Man: It's your fault. It's lost...wandering...You will scare it away!
YOU"LL DRIVE ME MAD!
Stinger: I think that's a trip that's already ended, buddy.
Man: Where do you want to go today?
Harv-5: I do not know. Why do you ask?
Man: Moons and stars...magically...mmm...mmmaagically delicious!
Harv-5: This individual is beyond help.
Stinger: What an understatement...
Man: Do not...Do not remove...reeeeemove taaaag under penalty of...death.
Stinger: All right, let's go. Try not to agitate him...I'm getting tired of
putting these guys down.
Harv-5: Let us hope the Magi find their sure, or we'll be putting many more
to rest.
---- Speak to him again.
Man: Have you brought my shadow back? Answer me! ANSWER ME!!!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Gubrath Woods 0053
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Lots of trees and green and blue ground. At the entrance there is a
statue.
o-----------------------------o
| There is a note attached to |
| this curious statue or |
| structure: |
| Caution! |
| Headhunters, tinkers and |
| unhappy trails ahead. |
o-----------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Fire danger: Low |
| Meandering quotient: High |
o---------------------------o
Setting: After traversing the paths through the woods and getting lost, the
party stop and are met by some strangers.
Stinger: All right, stump head...I think we're officially lost.
Harv-5: Making inaccurate statements is a poor way to cope with frustration.
Stinger: So what's inaccurate?
Harv-5: I don't have a stump for a head.
Stinger: Prove it!
Harv-5: It is you who has been guiding us. You have chosen incorrectly.
Stinger: Oh no you don't! You're supposed to be the big brain here!
Harv-5: I am without a doubt the only sign of intelligent like in this
lonely forest...
---- They both turn to look as a dark figure comes into view.
Stinger: Huh? Hey! We're saved!
Stranger: Greetings, brave travellers.
Stinger: Hi, yourself! Boy are we glad to see you!
Stranger: Fortune smiles upon me today.
Stinger: And on us! We're lost, and we're hoping you can lead us out of this
forest.
Stranger: In life, we are all lost. Only the few find clarity. Am I right,
my brothers?
---- Two more dark figures come into view.
Stinger: Hey now...Where did everyone come from...?
Stranger: Rejoice! Soon you will find purpose! Radiant love! Relief...
Harv-5: We already have a purpose. We must be on our way.
Stinger: Yeah... We've got all the love we need, thanks.
Psst... Get ready to run, Harv-5!
Stranger: SEIZE THEM!
---- The screen goes black as Stinger protests.
Stinger: Get your mitts offa me! Let go...I'm warning you! Ooof!
Harv-5: Look out!
Stranger: Bind them!
Stinger: Lemme go, you son of a ...! OUCH!
Stranger: Pile up on the wooden one!
o-----------o
| CLANNING! |
o-----------o
Stranger: Well done, my brothers. Take them away!
---- End of black screen. A new scene inside a stone built room.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. The (Cultists') Village 0054
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There is a head surrounded with a spinning globe of light. Two of
the dark strangers are present and Stinger and Harv-5 appear to be out cold.
Shaman: Bask in the glory of the godhead!
Cultist: Inaba gadda ga vidda! (Praise be to the One Head!)
Shaman: Through these offerings we serve him!
Cultist: Closer to the One Head!
Harv-5: Bzzzt...frrrt...fsss...
Shaman: What...what is that noise?
Cultist: The wooden one stirs...or buzzes or something.
---- Harv-5 jumps up from the blood soaked platform where he has been
lying, and the light disappears from around the head.
Harv-5: Cease and desist!
---- The cultist comes over towards him.
Shaman: In the name of the One Head! Curse this foul, wooden demon!
Aaiiieee! We are undone!
Godhead: You there! Where am I? What are you doing to me?
Shaman: THE GODHEAD SPEAKS!
---- The cultist and the red cloaked Shaman begin to bow.
Godhead: Sky and Stars! Stop this madness!
Harv-5: Creature, can you understand me?
---- The Godhead turns to face Harv-5.
Godhead: What in the...! A wooden golem as well? This is the strangest
dream...
Harv-5: You are not dreaming.
Wake up Stinger!
Stinger: Wh...whuh...huh?
Harv-5: We must escape.
---- Stinger slowly sits up and stands.
Stinger: What the hell is that?! A detached HEAD?! They must have really
socked it to me...
GodHead: You think someone did a number on YOU?!?
Harv-5: This is no time to measure your respective testosterone levels and
war wounds. We must flee!
Shaman: Wh...what is this?! The One Head...it...communes with our
sacrifices!
Cultist: We are deceived!
Shaman: A foul trick is played on us! KILL THEM! Kill the false god! Kill
them all!
GodHead: I say, lads...Dream or no, those sound like fighting words!
o-------------------------------o
| Godhead has joined the party! |
o-------------------------------o
Stinger: The head's got a point! Let's let these nuts have it!
Harv-5: As you wish!
---- There is a battle with three: 2 cultists and the Shaman.
Stinger: I still don't understand what just happened...
GodHead: Welcome to the club...Of all the nerve... Worshipping ME as a god?
Stinger: Who...or what are you, anyway?
GodHead: The name is...
Quick! What is my name?
Xero
Xero: ...and I am at your service.
Stinger: That's quite a name!
Xero: Indeed! A name fitting the First Mage-Warrior of House Von Moon.
Stinger: ...Mage...warrior!?
Xero: Aye. And to whom am I speaking?
Stinger: I'm Stinger...This here's Harv-5.
Xero: Stinger! Harv-5!
I greet you and give thanks for your assistance!
Stinger: Our pleasure...We almost gave up our ghosts for you you back there..
Xero: Quite right. By the by...What was the matter with that lot?
They seem to be suffering from a queer madness... Is it a plague
upon the land?
Stinger: Something like that...
Harv-5: We should get moving. They won't remain stunned for long!
Xero: Jolly good idea, old man. Time for chit-chat later!
---- They join one party led by Stinger.
-----------------
The Fortune Wheel
-----------------
Setting: Inside the cave there is a turning drum.
o---------------------o
| Check your fortune! |
o---------------------o
---- They leave this area and enter the village.
Cultist: The prisoners have escaped! Stop them!
Cultist: There they are!
Cultist: So you though you can just walk away and escape?
Stinger: No, we're going to fight our way out!
---- There is another battle.
---- They visit the huts.
Cultist: IT IS THE ONE HEAD! AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!
Xero: Stop that this instant!
Cultist: As you wish, O holy one.
Xero: What is the purpose of this place?
Cultist: Here we store the possessions of those we have offered to you, O
Great Head.
Xero: How ghastly!
Stinger: Ghastly or not, I think it's time they made an offering...to us!
Xero: Er...quite right.
See here, Attendant!
Cultist: Yes, O Mighty One?
Xero: We'll be taking some of these things.
Cultist: They're all yours!
Stinger: Mighty generous of you. Let's stock up.
Harv-5: A sound plan
Cultist: Fortune favours me!
Xero: Dear me!
---- Speak to him again.
Cultist: If there's anything else I can do...
A holy war...A temple in your honour...A slaughter of innocents...
Just ask!
---- Check the green display.
o---------------------------o
| Vegetable orbs, a symbol |
| of purity and perfection. |
o---------------------------o
---- Check the red/pink object.
o------------------------o
| Squishy, cold hunks of |
| skin and meat... |
o------------------------o
The second hut;
Xero: Good day madam! Is the man of the hut available?
Woman: Aaiiieeeek! The One Head!
Stinger: We'll take that as a no.
Xero: This is embarrassing! All of this 'god' rubbish!
Harv-5: At least she is not attacking us.
Woman: Please don't kill me. I've led a proper life! I've helped to
sacrifice many in your name!
Xero: Dear me. It's worse than I thought...
Stinger: Let's hustle before she flips her wig...
---- Speak to her again.
Woman: Is there a place for my head in heaven?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
v. Gamathel's Tower 0055
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A splendid barley twist purple tower rises from a dark gold base. The
tower is topped with a spire. It is set against green hills and a yellow dusky
sky.
---- They stop outside the entrance.
Stinger: Whoa! This place is gorgeous!
Harv-5: I can hear things...Creatures...Animals...Stirring within.
Xero: The tower...it belongs to a Mage, does it not?
Stinger: Yeah...
Xero: The architecture seems familiar. Reminds me of King Fanoma's Spire.
Stinger: So...ole King Fanoma built 'em good, huh?
Xero: Indeed! And what a lovely wife he had...Ah...the Queen...
Harv-5: Gentlemen....We do have a job to do.
Stinger: Yeah, yeah, Harv-5! A fancy house to run through...
Harv-5: This "house" may contain valuable data.
Stinger: Hold your hat on! So...Xero...tell me more about this Queen!
Xero: Oh, but she was a fine one...But...let's talk of this later. I
think our friend Harv-5 is correct. On we go, then.
Harv-5: At last. I tire of waiting.
---- Harv-5 walks forward and opens the door and foes inside.
Stinger: Hey, Xero, a word of advice...Don't let Harv-5 think he knows what
he's doing. It'll just go to that wooden head of his!
Xero: I shall keep that in mind.
---- Harv-5 comes back outside.
Harv-5: What is it now? More whispered secrets regarding the Queen?
Stinger: What's it to you, haybrain? What would you know about women,
anyway?
Xero: A thousand apologies, Harv-5. We were discussing...tactics.
Nothing more.
Harv-5: I see. Sound judgement.
Xero: Thoughtless of us to exclude you!
Let's see what's in there...together!
Stinger: Sounds like a plan...
---- They go inside and the screen goes black showing this message.
o------------------------o
| Meanwhile, back at the |
| Magic Academy, Helios |
| continues to educate |
| his newest student... |
o------------------------o
--------------------
Windleaf's Education
---------------------
Setting: the room with the green rug and bed. Helios and Windleaf are talking.
Helios: ...and that's why we had to, well, "encourage" you into the
Etherwell. We had no choice!
Windleaf: I would have gone voluntarily if you had just told me what was at
stake...
Helios: I know that now, but...well, even mages sometimes ace hastily...
I...we apologise...
Windleaf: No need. But I want to learn more. You owe me that.
Helios: Agreed. Where to start...Let's see...
My dear, the entity in question is most perplexing...
...and not at all easily described or understood...
It all started with Crobb the Foolish, who was once Crobb the
Grand, a mage in the service of Queen Tulia 1.
I believe that was in, oh, year 2BF, or Before the Fall of course...
Crobb promised the Queen an endless supply of magical power, and
laboured to tap into the forbidden black art of Chaos
Transmutations.
He told her he was creating a new source of positive energy.
Windleaf: Sound like a great guy...
Helios: Quite. At any rate, late in the year 1 BF, Crobb's monkeying had an
unexpected side effect...
He managed to pry open a window in time and space...and viola...!
Windleaf: ...in rushed the bad guys...
Helios: Right, only it wasn't just bad guys, it was the Darg.
The Darg could best be characterised as an "idea" which is passed
from person to person very much like an illness...
Only this particular "idea" has succeeded in spreading itself
endlessly across the cosmos...
Windleaf: I...it's unimaginable...
Helios: Oh, it gets worse!
This particular idea, when shared across thousands or millions of
individuals, actually manifests itself...
...into a physical "form" to cement its domination...
Are you still with me?
Windleaf: Barely... I...don't like what I'm hearing...
Helios: I would expect not!
Now the physical manifestation of the Darg spreads terror and in so
doing entrenches itself deeper in the hearts and minds of its
victims.
Windleaf: Great Keerg's spirit!
Helios: The Darg changed the flow of history on Arkose...
No one really know what happened during the years of chaos...
That is the darkest period in history, and one that offers no point
of entry to modern scholars.
All we know is that by around 29 AF (After the Fall) there weren't
many people left alive.
Most of Arkose lay in ruins... Only western Khelestra was relatively
intact.
Much of Siltheria was reduced to a vast desert.
Many now "legendary" cities, such as Metaboline, simply disappeared
without a trace.
Windleaf: I...I just want to go to sleep. I feel numb...
Helios: I know, child...but that is what you cannot do. You must become
stronger... You have much riding on you now... As do your friends...
Windleaf: It seems pointless...
Helios: No dear. It is all going exceedingly well!
But Fessen is waiting for you now in the library.
Go...study what he gives you. Learn...learn...learn...
---- The screen goes black.
o---------------------------------o
| There is much for all to learn, |
| and some vital knowledge is |
| close at hand! |
o---------------------------------o
-----------------------
Inside Gamathel's Tower
-----------------------
Setting: The group are now inside the tower, where everything is in disarray.
Tower Foyer
-----------
---- The group head left and touch the walls.
Stinger: Ribs...holding up the walls...This place almost seems to be alive...
Room with steps
---------------
---- Check the white bones.
Stinger: Something wicked this way came...
Grand Dining Room
-----------------
Setting: There is a large wooden table that is broken in half, in the centre of
the room and four openings leading off this large space.
Alchemical Chamber.
------------------
Setting: This is down some steps and has a large circle with coloured lights on
the floor surrounding a large star.
---- Check the instrument.
o-----------------------o
| Harmonic resonator. |
| Often used together |
| with crystals to |
| commune with the gods |
o-----------------------o
---- Check the colours on the magic circle.
Green: Emanation of verdure.
Red: Emanation of phlogiston.
Blue: Emanation of wodor.
---- Check the stuff on the table.
o--------------------o
| Thatoc horn. |
| Good for vitality. |
o--------------------o
o-------------o
| Deer antler |
o-------------o
o----------------------o
| Mortar and pestle... |
o----------------------o
Stinger: Much grinding has taken place here...Over many years.
Vault
-----
Setting: A dark storage room off the Alchemical Chamber.
---- Check the things here.
o--------------------------------o
| Back issues of 'Popular Magic' |
o--------------------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| It's a scroll. |
| 'Use to eschew obfuscation. |
| Cast at your own risk.' |
o-----------------------------o
o--------------------------------o
| It's a case of 'Mage-wipes.' |
| For those stubborn lab stains |
| that can alter space and time. |
o--------------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Use only once then discard |
| immediately. |
o----------------------------o
o---------------------------------o
| Caution: Avoid spontaneous |
| combustion while using product. |
| Warranty void if used |
| carelessly or not as directed. |
o---------------------------------o
--------------------
The Master's Bedroom
--------------------
Setting: A large bedroom with a purple bed and a a dead body lying in blood on
the ground. There is another strangely shaped body near the bed
Xero: King's Honour! I've not seen such wounds in... In a long time...
Stinger: What the... What happened to him?
Xero: It's an old form of execution. Through mystic means... The victim
is turned inside out.
Harv-5: So it seems.
Xero: It was reserved for the worst of criminals. Eventually...it was
outlawed.
Stinger: Gruesome! What a way to check out... No one deserves that!
Xero: This is the work of a Stalker...
Stinger: Stalker...?
Xero: Our nickname for a foul breed of creature...created by the Darg as
enforcers of its will.
If I'm not mistaken, that corpse over there is..was a Stalker.
Harv-5: The return of darglings such as this can not bode well. We must be
cautious.
Stinger: I'll drink to that!
Xero: Rest well, honoured Mage. Your death shall not be in vain.
---- There is a sudden appearance of a globe of light similar to the one
that had enclosed Xero. Then a Dark Stranger appears. He is
floating above the ground and dressed in grey with a black horned
mask covering his head.
Dark
Stranger: Well, well, well! Whatever do we have here?
An ill-mannered whelp... A skull too stupid to die...
Xero: I say! This fellow's got nerve!
Dark
Stranger: And a barnyard curiosity!
Harv-5: Who are you? State your business?
Dark
Stranger: Who am I?! Don't you know?
Stinger: Should we, you spike-headed freak?
Dark
Stranger: Now, now... Soon you'll be screaming my name... begging for release!
Xero: Wait a minute...I know you! Can't remember your name...
Dark
Stranger: Ooooooh! This IS delicious! My oldest foe...An amnesiac!
Stinger: Hey, enough with the chest thumping, chump!
C'mon guys, let's kick this goon's ...
Dark
Stranger: Stay your distance, cur! I have a message for your masters! The
Magi!
Harv-5: Speak your piece, enemy.
Dark
Stranger: Tell those impotent swine that I will come for them soon.
Stinger: I'm sure that's gonna make 'em tremble!
Dark
Stranger: I will bring death... As I have here... As I have to so many places!
Stinger: What...other places?!
Dark
Stranger: Well, there was this stinking pit of a port town...
What was it..uh, oh yes, Port Lochane. Ring a bell?
Stinger: You? You did that?! You rotten scoundrel! GET HIM! KILL HIM!!!
Dark
Stranger: Oh, goodness me. A squealing, pimpled teen with a sword. I suppose
I should flee!
Stinger: AAAAARRRGGHHH!!!
Dark
Stranger: 'Til we meet again! Oh, and do close the door on the way out. It's
a bit draughty in here!
---- He disappears in the while globe thing.
Stinger: DAMMIT! What's WRONG with you guys?!? We let him get away!!
Harv-5: Stinger... If her is the one who razed our homes...
Stinger: "If?!?" That was the guy! He just said so!!
Harv-5: What could we have done, going up against a being who can destroy a
town?
Xero: Against a being who can destroy a mage...?
Stinger: GRRAAAAHHHHH!!! That "being" has ruined my life!
Xero: Be at ease, bladeson. Our day of retribution will come...
Stinger: You'd better be right!
Harv-5: At last the enemy has a face.
Xero: And...a name! Mannheim! His name is Mannheim!
Stinger: That should just fit on a tombstone.
Xero: Well said!
Stinger: Let's find this book and get outta here!
---- Check the bed.
Stinger: Definitely a bed suitable for an enlightened being...
---- Check the sparkle.
o---------------------------o
| Found the Natragor Codex! |
o---------------------------o
------
Cellar
------
Setting: The cellar is down a passage leading off the left hand opening. It is
full of large barrels and some boxes.
---- Check a box.
o----------------------o
| Contents: |
| Extract Aquafortis |
| made from these fine |
| ingredients: |
o----------------------o
o----------------------------o
| 4 stones of salt nitre |
| 3 stones of green vitriol |
| 1 stone of alum |
| 1 stone of sal ammoniac |
| (which has previously been |
| slightly pounded) |
o----------------------------o
---- Check the barrels.
o------------------------------o
| Fortified youngerberry wine. |
o------------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| For medicinal purposes, only. |
o-------------------------------o
---- Check the boxes.
o-----------------------------o
| Advanced chemistry supplies |
| for Mages only. |
o-----------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| Contents: |
| 1 copper operculum |
| 1 spithmia |
| 1 frying pan |
| 2 stones of succinous matter |
| 1 hair net |
o------------------------------o
---- Check to the right of the steps.
o--------------------------o
| Anglerville's Best, Inc. |
o--------------------------o
o-------------------o
" Dried, salted |
| kmii fish fillets |
| in light oil. |
o-------------------o
-------
The Den
-------
Setting: A study with books and things scattered on the floor.
---- Check the book to the left of the shelves.
Stinger: Knowledge...it comes in many forms, I guess.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vi. The Division of Labour. Magic Academy: Third Visit 0056
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------
The Chunnel Again
-----------------
They return through the woods and back to the Chunnel where Fessen is waiting.
Fessen: So...we're back are we?
Stinger: Ooh! Would you stop doing that?!
And yeah, we're back.
Fessen: You've brought a head with you... It'll have to sleep outside!
Xero: Who is this harlequin? He can't be one of the Magi!
Fessen: I serve the Magi. You may call me Feseen got that is my name.
Stinger: This is Xero Von Moon. Mage Warrior, extraordinaire!
Fessen Mage Warrior, eh?
If you're so... "extraordinaire," then what happened to most of you?
Xero: A pleasure to meet you, sir.
Xero: Some day I'd enjoy sitting down and telling you all about it, but
for now I should just like to chat with the Magi.
Stinger: Yeah, we need to tell them that their guy in Siltheria is deader
than a box of rocks...
But fortunately, we got the book!
Fessen: Bad news with good news...
I think perhaps you should tell them yourself.
And oh by the way...that is hardly a "book..."
Harv-5: It has pages of printed text sandwiched between two covers. It is a
book.
Fessen: For some odd reason, robot, I think you just sparked my appetite...
At any rate, why should I engage in a duel of wits with an unarmed
opponent? All will be revealed to you in good time.
I'll roust the Magi.
Meet them in the meeting chamber upstairs when you are able.
You might wish to freshen up in the guest quarters first. And you,
Stinger... you might wish to change your socks!
---- Fessen disappears.
Stinger: Keerg's yellow toenails...I HATE that guy...
Xero: Let's hope the Magi are more reasonable!
Harv-5: We must endure his sarcasm. His masters might be the only ones who
understand what is happening.
Stinger: I know, I know...
Come on, guys, let's head...er...go on upstairs...
Xero: You know the way. Lead on!
-----------------------
Helios and Instructions
-----------------------
Setting: They are automatically in the Meeting Chamber with Helios.
Helios: We are relieved to see you! Welcome back!
Stinger: Thanks. We've returned with an ally, as well as the book.
---- Harv-5 walks forwards to give the book to Helios.
Harv-5: Please. Take the Natragor Codex.
Stinger: And now...
---- Stinger turns to look at Xero.
Stinger: Helios and Kecelia...meet Xero Von Moon, former Mage Warrior!
Helios: Von Moon...now there's a name I haven't heard in quite a while...
(Hack...cough...)
Xero: It can't be...!
You...you're not "Hell Raiser Helios," the original "bad boy" of
the academy?
Helios: Well, ahem...I haven't raised much hell in many moons, but...that
was once my nickname, yes.
Xero: This is delightful. I'm so glad your powers have preserved you!
Helios: The Etherwell keeps us fit! But not forever...(cough...cough...)
---- Kecelia walks forwards.
Kecelia: Greetings, Xero Von Moon. We could use the skills of Mage Warrior!
Helios: Yes, and to that end...
I must ask you, Xero...What are your allegiances? Your priorities?
Xero: I think that is obvious. My King is dead. The court has crumbled
to dust. The Darg are back...They must be vanquished. That is my
duty.
Helios: I am relieved. (cough...cough...)
We will get a chance to chat later, but for now I fear we must cut
to the chase!
Kecelia: One of our own, a Mage named Hokum, has been corrupted by the
Darg... He found a Codex which summoned the ancient knowledge ...and
invited the scourge...
Xero: A Mage brought it back...? This is troubling...
Much time has passed since the first visitation...
Helios: Our attempts, with the Gadgeteers, to get technology to displace the
memory of the ancient scourge had nearly succeeded...
Kecelia: We had begin to obliterate all traces of that cursed beast... To
knock it out of the public domain, as it were...
But Hokum's mischief dredged up worry, concern...
Helios: He renewed and revitalised the myths and legends, and now they are
coming true again...
Stinger: By the way...Where's Windleaf? And the other Magi?
Kecelia: Alva and Brendan are deep in arcane research...
Helios: While Windleaf...She's on her way now. She was studying...
Stinger: Studying...what?
Helios: How to focus her energy...and her mind...
Kecelia: How to turn something into nothing...and back again!
---- Windleaf enters the room.
Stinger: Windleaf! Are you okay?
Windleaf: Of course I'm okay. What did you expect? To hear that these guys
shoved me into a pit or something?
Stinger: Of course not! I was...I mean we were just worried about you.
Windleaf: Well, stop worrying! And introduce your friend.
Xero: Allow me to introduce myself! I'm Xero Von Moon. At your service,
Windleaf!
Windleaf: Nice to meet you.
Stinger: We kind of bumped into Xero up in Siltheria...
He had a sort of fan club up there, but we managed to persuade him
to join us.
Xero: Quite!
Helios: Now that we are all here, I think we have a plan of action.
---- They all turn to look at Helios.
Helios: I believe we can put a stop to this Darg madness. (cough...hack...)
Kecelia: At least...we think so...
Xero: What about these Gadgeteer fellows? Can't they just wallop the tar
out of the Darg?
Windleaf: Unfortunately, it isn't that easy. They're infected with the
malaise just as we are. I'll tell you about it later.
Kecelia: Who knows, they may even have brought it here by mistake!
Helios: But now to the matter at hand... There are two critical tasks we
need to accomplish immediately.
First, in order to cast the Spell of Banishment, we need the Orb of
the Heavens.
Stinger: You don't mean the...
Helios: Indeed, the mythical object said to lie in the depths of the ancient
Ziggurat. It does, indeed, exist.
Xero: The Ziggurat? I know that place! When do we depart?
Helios: You will get your chance...just hear me out, please.
(Hack...cough...)
Because the Ziggurat lies across the sea, and all ships have,
apparently, been destroyed...
...we will need to elicit the aid of the Windtravellers.
Kecelia: The people of Bene-Brokul can arrange a meeting. It should be a
snap!
Stinger: As long as it isn't our necks that do the snapping...
Harv-5: There is a second task?
Helios: Yes. The second has to do with Wyldern...
Windleaf: The Middle World...
Helios: Yes. Unfortunately, the only way we know of that leads to
Wyldern...
Kecelia: ...is through the Great Vortex at the bottom of Loch Domhain.
Our allies, the Gadgeteers have an agreement with the City Council
in Karillon.
The City of Eyre is now in the service of the Council members.
Eyre can be summoned with the mechanism located in the Bell Tower,
next to the Council Building.
Helios: The Gadgeteers have suggested they know a method of allowing travel
though the Great Vortex.
Kecelia: We must trust them on this point...
Since we can't break though whatever is screening out thoughts in
Wyldern, we need you to look around, and report on what you see
there.
Xero: If I may speak, Helios?
Helios: Of course!
Xero: I would like to be part of the team going to the Ziggurat.
I know those lands...at least I used to, and I can probably provide
some guidance.
Stinger could come with me to help me with the things I cannot
do...such as...
...manipulating levers, scratching my nose and such...
Stinger: Actually, Xero...I think I'd be most effective opening up the way to
Wyldern.
Harv-5, Windleaf and I have recently come from Karillon. We know
the members of the Council. And... They owe us a favour!
Windleaf: Harv-5 could come too!
Xero: Then who will assist me?
Harv-5: One moment please.
I did not care for Karillon. There were too many people. There was
too much noise.
I would rather go with Xero to seek out the legendary fortress under
the desert.
Xero: Now we're talking!
Helios: Then it is settled. Xero and Harv-5 will make for Bene-Brokul and
seek out the Windtravellers...
...and Windleaf and Stinger will arrange for Eyre to visit Karillon,
and for the Gadgeteers to supply a means of transportation to
Wyldern...
Kecelia: May we all find the strength we need to achieve our goals.
Helios: We will focus our minds, and our hearts, for that is our way.
---- The party leave the room to the left and right.
---- The screen goes black.
o-----------------------------------o
| Meanwhile... |
| In a dark, foreboding place, deep |
| within Arkose... |
o-----------------------------------o
------------------------
Damon Hokum and Mannheim
------------------------
Setting: A large hall with a circular blue pool in the centre and a throne? A
green faced man in a red cloak speaks to the Dark Stranger: Mannheim.
Damon
Hokum: Stand, loyal one...Let me hear your report.
Mannheim: As you predicted, the Magi have started to move. They have
acquired...agents.
Damon
Hokum: Agents...hmm... Why that almost makes the Magi sound resourceful!
One would think they'd have learned after so many failures.
Mannheim: Yes, well...we can't take them lightly...
The Mage Warrior is back in action...this in spite of having
misplaced his body...
Damon
Hokum: Von Moon? Ha, ha ha...! So...the cultists have lost their little
god...What a shame...
Mannheim: They also have a new Magi. She is called Windleaf. She's young,
but...she might become a problem.
---- Damon stalks or strides down the room closer to Mannheim and turns
to face him.
Damon
Hokum: Hmm...most curious. It's been a while since the Old Ones signed up
a new student...
Mannheim: A Mage with training wheels! Why worry?
Damon
Hokum: Ah...what a delightful image! But, unfortunately, inaccurate.
This new Mage could destabilise things...rake up some muck...
---- Damon walks back up the room, his back to Mannheim.
Mannheim: Master...you're 'overthinking' things, no?!
Damon
Hokum: You know, I didn't lobotomise you for many reasons...Second-guessing
me isn't one of them.
Unless you fancy life as a mental midget, you'd be wise to never
question my judgement again.
Mannheim: Y...yes, milord!
---- Damon turns to look at Mannheim.
Damon
Hokum: I tire of your company. Alert all of our toadies in the field. See
to it that...welcoming parties are in place to greet these 'agents'.
Mannheim: It shall be done, O Wise One.
Damon
Hokum: Report when you have more information.
Mannheim: I live to serve!
---- Damon turns his back and starts to walk to the far end of the room
Damon
Hokum: Dismissed.
---- Mannheim leaves down screen.
Damon
Hokum: So, Helios...What game are you playing?
Do your best, old man...You might once have been my teacher, but
I've outgrown you...
...in ways you wouldn't understand...
---- The screen goes black and now a new choice must be made.
-------
Choices
-------
o----------------------------o
| You need to decide which |
| quest you will play first. |
o----------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Use the Party Splitting |
| Screen to adjust your |
| party's inventory as you |
| see fit. |
o----------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| To be successful, you must |
| make sure you have enough |
| items, weapons and armour to |
| get you through the rough |
| times ahead! |
o------------------------------o
o---------------------------------o
| Look for Party Switch Points |
| at Inns. You can use them to |
| go from one party to the other |
| as you play. |
o--------------------------------o
o------------o
| Good luck! |
o------------o
o----------------------o
| Which party do you |
| want to play first? |
| |
| Xero and Harv-5 |
| Stinger and Windleaf |
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------
Windleaf and Stinger: Before Leaving
------------------------------------
Setting: Windleaf and Stinger are talking in the Magic Academy library.
Windleaf: I'm kind of glad we're heading back to Karillon.
Stinger: Yeah, me too. Maybe we can finally get a decent meal!
Windleaf: Do you think Harv-5 and Xero will be okay?
Stinger: They're off ti find some ruined temple or something. What kind of
trouble could they get into?
Windleaf: Plenty...
Stinger: Look, together they're a pretty formidable pair. Harv-5 kind of has
a good head on his shoulders now, so to speak!
Windleaf: That was a joke, right?
Stinger: I guess not. Anyway...forget about them. They'll be fine!
Windleaf: Yeah, I know...
Stinger: You ought to be worrying about us.
Windleaf: Excuse me?
Stinger: We're going somewhere no one has gone in...well, quite a long time.
In spite of all the stuff Fessen has brought us to read, I still
feel a little nervous...
Windleaf: That's good. So do I. I'd be worried otherwise.
Stinger: So...enough with the history lessons...
Let's get this show on the road! We've got two important letters to
deliver.
Windleaf: Right. One to the Council, and one to the Gadgeteers...
Um...Stinger?
Stinger: Yeah?
Windleaf: Why did you really want to go to Wyldern?
Stinger: Because I...because, well...
Windleaf: Yes?
Stinger: Just because!
Windelaf: Uh huh...I see...Eloquent as ever.
Stinger: Now come on, let's get going...
---- The screen goes black and Stinger and Windleaf are on the world map,
outside the Magic Academy.
After this every inn will have a swapping point.
o---------------------------------o
| This is a party swapping point. |
| You can use this to change to |
| the other group of heroes. |
o---------------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Would you like to change |
| to the other party? |
| Yes |
| No |
o--------------------------o
Swap the party and the screen goes black.
Meanwhile....
-------------------------------
Harv-5 and Xero: Before Leaving
-------------------------------
Setting: Harv-5 and Xero are talking in the Guest Quarters at the Magic
Academy.
Xero: I hope Stinger and Windleaf can learn more about Wyldern before they
head off...
Harv-5: They must. They will journey to an unexplored and wild new land.
There will be death...
Xero: Harv-5! There could also be life!
This is the time to think positively!
Harv-5: I will work to become a more optimistic Harvester Mark 3 robotic
entity.
Xero: That's the spirit! I think...
Now, let's go before Fessen brings use any more maps and books to
read.
Xero: I already know where I'm going!
Harv-5: As you wish.
Xero: We shouldn't interrupt Windleaf and Stinger in the Library.
Harv-5: Affirmative. They have enough to think about.
Xero: Good. Come on then!
---- The screen goes black and Harv-5 and Xerp are on the world map,
outside the Magic Academy.
---- Attempt to return to the Magic Academy.
Stinger/
Harv-5: There's no need to bother the Magi right now.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vii. Return Visits 0057
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The entrance to the town of Jynx. As soon as the group arrive they
are stopped by Gladdis, a young woman in a blue dress. (Either party can
return to Jynx for the same conversations).
Gladdis: I'm gonna tell you a secret. Step over here just a little closer.
Sure...
This is close enough, thank you.
#Select This is close enough, thank you.
Gladdis: Suit yourself. Don't say I didn't try to warn you!
##Select Sure...
Gladdis: That's better! Now listen carefully...
Thank you so much! You've saved our town!
Stinger: Look, anyone would have done it! We're just glad we could help!
Gladdis: Well, we suffered for decades as a result of that wraith...it was
the source of all out bad luck!
But now things in the outside world are looking bad...figures. Fix
one thing and another breaks. Ta-ta!
---- Speak to her again.
Gladdis: Have a great stay!
---------------
The Town Centre
---------------
They can speak to everyone in Jynx for new responses.
Lotte: If you're looking for Hilly, you'll find her at William's place.
They're quite the lovebirds these days!
Edna: Oh! How I love men!
Men are wise...
Men are strong...
---- Keep speaking to her...
Edna: Men sing...
They love...
They create...
Men protect...
Men build...
Men entertain...
Oh! I just adore men!
Zeno: Ever since you fixed things lie has gotten boring.
I'm back in school now, can't play gate ball, and have to eat my
vegetables.
Why 'd ya have to go and screw everything up? Stupid!
---- Speak to him again.
Zeno: Ppppffft! Ha! Take that!
Horace: I've heard that the Gedgeteers have blowed up half the durn world!
Never did trust 'em.
-------------
The Graveyard
-------------
Charlore: Got me a new beau! He's such a sweetie! Life is good again!
-------
The Bar
-------
Gramme: We won't need to drown our sorrows anymore! I thought I'd turn this
place into a flower shop!
-------
The Inn
-------
Chacke: Hey! Welcome to the Inn, heroes. Lucky for you, there's a vacancy.
Rates are up for everyone else, but for you...still 50 gold!
o----------------o
| Want the room? |
| Yes |
| No |
o----------------o
#Select Yes.
Chake: Snooze well!
##Sselect No.
Chacke: Hey, I understand. You folks got a world to save, right? Drop in
later, okay?
--------------
Jynx Town Hall
--------------
Old Mac: Well, aside from the world fallin' apart, things seem back to
normal.
Keerg knows I could use a little break. Think I'll take a vacation
to Port Lochane. Always did fancy that place...
Might take my new flame with me! She packs a mean cake!
---- Speak to him again.
Old Mac: Can't believe all this bad luck was the work of a ghost!
Dr. Heend: See the famous headless Neopaleoaustolipocamthus...
...no one knows how it managed in ancient times without a head...
Perhaps someday science will uncover these mysteries.
Miss
Blund: Please don't lick your fingers whilst turning the pages!
---- Speak to her again.
Miss
Blund: Why don't you kids go out and play? It's such a beautiful day!
Whince: Keerg knows I'm getting my confidence back again! I'm ready to
look death in the eye...! Ha...ha ha ha...
Once I've served my sentence, of course.
--------
Warooi's
--------
Warrooi: Got me a new attitude! Take your time, customers!
---- After closing the shop inventory.
Warooi: Thanks for whatever part you played in helping us. I love this
town!
----------------------
Crescent Valley Market
----------------------
As soon as the party enters, Hilly starts to speak.
Hilly: We're so glad to see you again! It was like we were under a spell
or something.
William: I guess the wraith poisoned our town for years with its anger and
hatred. It was so subtle we just couldn't tell what was happening.
Before we knew it , we were at war with out loved ones!
Hilly: To think I used to call you a bovine to your face!
William: Yeah! Some nerve you had calling me that!
Hilly: Well, it's not like I knew what I was doing back then, is it?
William: Bovine, my tush!
Hilly: Well, at any rate we;re finally back to normal.
I just love this man!
By the way, do you need any supplies? Best goods in the Valley!
Priced to sell!
Bonne: On second thought, I don't want to be an opera singer!
In fact I hate opera! I think the wraith was corrupting my
sensibilities!
---- Speak to her again.
Bonne: Now that I think about it, I wanna be a can-can girl!
Trasi: All I want to do these days is scream at my brother. I guess that's
what sisters are supposed to do, right
---- Speak to her again.
Trasi: Why couldn't I have a sister? Brothers are lame!
---- Speak to William again.
William: Welcome to the store, folks!
Hilly: You already know we're the best in the valley! What can we do for
you today?
William: Come back now, okay?
-------------
Mayor's House
-------------
This time only the boy is present.
Trani: Just when my parents seemed to settle down, my dad went nuts.
Started yellin' all the time, screaming about his shadow. How could
a shadow hurt you?
---- Speak to him again.
Trani: I hope this thing with Dad passes. It's so childish, being afraid
of a shadow.
===============================================================================
6. BENE BROKUL 0060
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. The Journey 0061
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Harv-5 and Xero enter the mountains. It is snowing.
---- Try to turn back.
Xero: You know, we really can't turn back now. They'd think we're
sissies!
Harv-5: I was not turning back. I was merely running a diagnostic...
Xero: A diagnostic, eh? Well, let's knock that off and get going!
stinger....
The Ravine
----------
Setting: They arrive at a ravine. Snow is falling and there is a blue
footbridge spanning the abyss.
Xero: I say! What an amazing abyss!
Harv-5: The famed "Grand Chasm."
My former owners used to tell cautionary tales to their children
that involved this place.
Xero: Is that so?
Harv-5: Indeed.
The tales all involved the fate of naughty or wilful children.
Usually a dark, frightening form would emerge from the Grand Chasm
in the dead of night to drag such children back down into it...
Xero: What a gruesome notion! WHy would a parent frighten a child so?
Harv-5: I do not know.
I do know that I was often summoned to change soiled diapers and
britches after such a story had been told.
Xero: How maternal of you!
Harv-5: ...
We should proceed.
Xero: Er...righto! Well, you first...
Or are you checking for something?
A dark, frightening shape perhaps?
Harv-5: Negative.
Merely ...assessing the structural integrity of the bridge.
Xero: Ah. How thoughtful.
I mean, after all...the last ogres died out centuries ago...
Or did they...?
Harv-5: Your modest attempts at humour are delaying our mission.
Xero: Then let's get on with it!
---- They cross the bridge and take the first turn left inside the ice
tunnels. They then stop at a blue item.
Xero: What's this...?
---- Xero dips to the ground and picks it up.
Xero: It appears to be an Elemental Charm...
An Ice Charm, if I'm not mistaken.
Harv-5: Bound to be useful!
Xero: Quite useful.
o-----------------------------o
| Ice Twitch Attack unlocked. |
o-----------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| To use, press the X and |
| Square buttons in rapid |
| succession once you've chosen |
| your attack method. |
o-------------------------------o
---- Once out of the tunnels they find another body.
o----------------------------o
| You find the frozen corpse |
| of a man... |
o----------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| He is clad in a ghastly |
| assortment of multi- |
| coloured rags... |
o--------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| His feet are bare... |
o--------------------------o
o--------------------------------o
| He clutches a piece of garbage |
| to his chest... |
o--------------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| It is obvious he died of... |
| ...the madness... |
o------------------------------o
---- They move to the right and up to carry on and see a figure waving.
Xero: Look...Fellow travellers!
Harv-5: Perhaps.
Brigand: Hey! You there!
Xero: Yes?
Brigand: You can't go through here!
Xero: Why not? Is the path unsafe?
Brigand: You could say that...
It's gonna be REAL unsafe for you if you don't give us your goods!
Xero: Ah. Highwaymen. It figures.
Harv-5: You are foolish. We are on an important mission.
Brigand: OoOoOoh An im-por-tant mission!
Harv-5: We will not comply with your demands. Please stand aside.
There may be death.
Brigand: Turn that thing into kindling, boys!
Xero: Well, you warned them...
---- There is a battle.
Xero: Haaarrumph! "Give us your goods." indeed...
Why I could have thrashed them with one eye closed!
Harv-5: Quiet, please...
We must chat about this incident later. We now have a more urgent
matter to attend to.
Xero: Let me guess... You dropped a contact lens?
Harv-5: Negative. It concerns...
...the impending avalanche.
Xero: !!!
Why didn't you say so?!?
RUN!!!!
---- They run, and then appear in a village.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii The Village 0062
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A snow covered village with a well, lighted torches and a few houses,
and there is no-one to be seen.
Xero: That was entirely too close for comfort!
Thank the gods above for your mechanical ears, my friend!
Harv-5: Such "thanks" would be ill-placed.
Xero: Eg...?
Harv-5: First, had you not been boasting, you too, would have heard the
rumbling...
Second the "gods" were not responsible for the creation of
my...ears...
Gadgeteer design team CY-101 implemented these biotech sensory
instruments. You may direct your thanks to them if you wish.
Xero: Er...so be it! Here's to Design team CY-101! Cheers!
By the by...where are we? And where is everyone?
Doesn't seem to be soul around here.
Harv-5: We are in Bene-Brokul.
We are not alone. Plenty of souls are nearly. You only need
listen...
Xero: Hmm...tortured souls, then...
Harv-5: Stand ready! Hostile encounter imminent!
Xero: Oh, good gracious...
Enough with the theatrics, Harv-5! What makes you think we're in
danger. anyway?
---- At this point two human-like creatures dressed in purple and red,
with white heads emerge from either side of the village.
Xero: Oh... I think I understand now. Thanks.
---- Another figure comes up behind them. There is a battle. Afterwards
the two brightly coloured figures walk back out of sight, to the
sides of the village
Xero: The undead! Foul, putrid creature!
Harv-5: There are more. Many more.
Xero: We should see if there are any of the 'un-undead' about!
Harv-5: ...
Xero: That's a little joke, Harv-5.
Harv-5: As you saw.
Xero: You...you have no sense of humour at all, do you?
Harv-5: Irrelevant...
Let us seek survivors...
Let us purge the universe.
Xero: Yes, let's...
---- They go right to the door of the nearest house.
Harv-5: Hello? Is anyone there?
Man: Oh sure...that's the ticket...!
Yes, please allow me to open t=my door so you jolly undead fellows
can come in and munch on my bones!
Harv-5: I assure you. We are not undead.
Man: Oh, yeah?! Prove it!
Woman: Keerg's teeth, Ragark! How many zombies talk like that?
We've both heard the undead grunting at our door for days now,
scratching to get in...
This is different.
Man: Er...well...I suppose you're right...
Woman: Of course I'm right. And you;re paranoid.
Man: Oh, very well then. You may enter!
--------------
Ragark's Abode
--------------
Setting: inside the house there is a room with a bed, table, stove and storage
pots. There is a yellow haired man and brown haired woman.
Ragark: We've been discovered, Moira! Run for your life!
Harv-5: Wait! We will not harm you!
Xero: The monsters are out there, my good man.
Ragark: First zombies...now it's a...wooden man with his buddy...
A buddy that just happens to be a decapitated head...
Great Keerg...! What did I ever do to be punished so? Give me a
sign...I beg of you!
Harv-5: He makes a valid point. Our visages are ...somewhat unique...
Xero: Well, it certainly isn't our fault how we look!
Do you think I want to look like this?
Moira: Relax, husband...I sense that these two are...allies.
Ragark: Have you gone mad, too? They're grotesque monsters! Look at 'em!
Moira: Every other monster we've encountered would've been chewing on us by
now, husband.
Ragark: ...
I hate it...
Do you not hate it when your woman is right?
Xero: No, actually I kind of like a woman with a good head on her
shoulders.
Ragark: Yes, you would, wouldn't you...
Harv-5: We digress. How long have the undead been here?
Moira: About a week. They came from nowhere... And they never sleep...
Ragark: We thought we'd at least be able to get out and about during the
day. No such luck, though...
Moira: The foul things have forced us to live like rats!
Xero: Take comfort, madam. Help has arrived!
Harv-5: We will need your assistance.
Ragark: You've got it!
Xero: That's the spirit, sir!
Moira: What can we do?
Xero: For now, all we need is shelter.
Ragark: Why don't you use our barn? It's through that door, there.
Moira: Most of the animals have been...savaged by those creatures!
Harv-5: We will protect those few animals that remain.
Xero: With your help, we'll put an end to this!
Moira: Thank you! We just want our lives back...
---- The party rejoins.
---- Speak to them both again.
Ragark: Anything you see here is yours. Just get rid of those things!
Moira: Good luck to you, strange ones.
---------
Sheep Pen
---------
Setting: This barn is reached from the main room and contains a couple of
sheep, some barrels and the swap device.
Xero: Sky and Stars! How the mighty have fallen!
Harv-5: Is there a problem?
Xero: Yes. This place! This...pit...
To think, that I...
...a Von Moon...
...must sleep HERE?!? Ludicrous!
Harv-5: Is that all...? Please calm yourself.
I have spent much of my...life in such places. There is no shame
here.
Xero: Well, that's fine for a farm took such as yourself, but...
Harv-5: Your era is long dead. The people you once knew, too. You must be
grieving. But a new age greets you.
And you must somehow find a way to survive in it. You must be
flexible. You must lean to live all over again.
Xero: Such flexibility involves sleeping amongst sheep?
Harv-5: If necessary.
Xero: Bloody wooden golem! I'll see you in the morning.
Harv-5: At least you have sheep to count. May you go to sleep promptly...
o-------------------------------------o
| Party fully restored through sleep! |
o-------------------------------------o
Harv-5: Baaaaaaaaa!
Xero: Oh, go till a field, you cheeky wooden trash pile!
Harv-5: I laugh.
Save/Continue/Quit
The next day....
---- Check the items in the main room.
o---------------o
| Lamb jerky... |
o---------------o
o------------------o
| Winter Squash... |
o------------------o
---- Check the bed.
Harv-5: This is the neatest hovel I have ever seen.
A gold piece would bounce chin high if tossed onto this bed.
--------------------------------------------------
Exploring the Village Before Defeating the Zombies
--------------------------------------------------
The House opposite Ragark's Abode
---------------------------------
Man: Jump back into your graves you zombie fiends!
The House to the Far Left
------------------------
Man: Are you a Sweeney?
Harv-5: I...don't think so!
Man: Then be off with ya!
The Well
--------
o--------------------o
| Well of Sorrows... |
o--------------------o
--------------------------
Bene Brokul Burial Ground.
--------------------------
Setting: a snow covered graveyard with many small stones and some larger ones.
---- The graves' inscriptions, starting from the left of the entrance.
o--------------------o
| R.I.P. |
| Tirma Reki |
| Beloved husband |
| of Kima, father |
| of Tito and Werni. |
o--------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Died tragically in |
| an avalanche after the |
| bottle of barleyfis he |
| was carrying explosively |
| jettisoned its cork. |
o---------------------------o
o-------------------o
| Repose in the |
| Fleece of Avalon, |
| Rip Brokul |
o-------------------o
o-------------------------o
| Hereditary mayor to |
| the town, and gentleman |
| farmer. |
o-------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Died when the sheep he |
| thought he was sheering |
| turned out to be a saber- |
| toothed mountain shirox. |
o---------------------------o
o--------------------o
| Tombof the Unknown |
| Sheep Rancher... |
o--------------------o
o-----------------------o
| Undecipherable... |
| Written in an ancient |
| orthography... |
o-----------------------o
---- The large stone at the centre right.
o---------------------------o
| Shrine to the gods and |
| goddesses of Bene-Brokul. |
o---------------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| In celebration of Wee-ma, |
| the god of soiled hooves, |
| Ter-ter, the goddess of lanolin, |
| and Mar-mite, the god of fine |
| woollens. |
o----------------------------------o
---- Down the far right path.
o-----------------------o
| R.I.P. |
| Gentle Windtraveller |
| ...Name unknown... |
o-----------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| Found lifeless on the ground |
| at the base of the Great Cliffs. |
o----------------------------------o
---------------
The Statue Area
---------------
Setting: to the south of the village is a large open area with a huge statue
and some houses. There is also an entrance to a cave.
The Cave
--------
Harv-5: Something carved in the stone above the opening here...hmmm...
'Sacred Cliffs.' 'Do Not Enter.'
As you wish...whoever you are...
The Statue
----------
o--------------------------o
| King Khelest, founder |
| of Bene Brokul, Champion |
| if justice. |
o--------------------------o
Left House
----------
Man: No one in here but us helpless folk...
...and a couple of cases of high-explosives! Now scram!
Top Left House
--------------
Man: Go 'way! Vamoose! Scram! Can't help ya!
-------------------------
The School and Playground
-------------------------
Setting: There is a large building and a small playground with a merry go round
and slide.
---- They defeat the final zombie monsters here.
Xero: Well, I dare say we polished off the last of them!
---- There is a faint sound.
Harv-5: Perhaps we spoke too soon.
Xero: That sound... It's dreadful!
Harv-5: The undead must have come from the graveyard...
Xero: So perhaps we should make sure there are no more of them lurking
about there!
Harv-5: Let us proceed.
---- Check the building.
Harv-5: What manner of place is this?
Xero: Can't say for sure. Perhaps it's a dungeon!
Harv-5: It seems deserted. Let us move on.
------------------------
After Defeating the Boss
------------------------
Setting: Xero and Harv-5 are standing in the entrance of the Burial Ground.
Xero: Is it just me, or was that the ugliest thing you've ever seen?
Harv-5: I have seen many ugly things.
Xero: Yes, well...Be that as it may, I think we just made the world a
brighter, happier place.
Harv-5: There was death. The evil is gone. We can prevail.
Xero: Indeed. I'm starting to feel like we're getting somewhere with all
of this!
Harv-5: Let us seek out the villagers. We must tell them they can come out
of hiding.
Xero: Off we go!
-------------
The Well Area
-------------
Setting: After defeating the boss there is a welcome party waiting.
Xero: Aha! The fair people of Bene-Brokul!
The undead are now...well. dead again!
Harv-5: The danger is over. The creatures have been nullified.
Xero: It's time to celebrate!
Shep: A...are you sure? They could be hiding!
Harv-5: If so, then you shall have to deal with them.
Xero: What my mechanical friend is trying to say is that it's time for
everyone to pull together!
Ragark: The walking barrel speaks the truth! I am tired of being afraid!
From now on, we will fight to defend our town!
Shep: I'm with ya, Ragark! By all rights we should be dead...
We owe everything to these...outsiders! This...floating head and
his...machine friend...
Xero: Uh...funny you should mention outsiders...
You see...we have a favour to ask of you.
Shep: Name it!
Harv-5: We understand you can contact the Windtravellers...
Ragark: Windtravellers...?
Shep: Windtravellers...
...hmmm...
You mean...like birds or something?
Ragark: Nope. Never heard of 'em.
Xero: Please...if not for use, then for the Magi...
Ragark: What have they got to do with this?
Xero: We are on a mission for them. One which will help us all.
Harv-5: It is of the utmost importance.
Moira: Ragark, do you need a sharp stick in the eye? These people saved
our lives, and our village!
Ragark: Well, yes I suppose they did.
Moira: Well...?!
Ragark: All right... Though I don't do this lightly...
Yes, strangers, we CAN contact those enigmatic people...
But it will be up to you to deal with them...
Shep: For better or for worse...
Xero: We are prepared. And...thank you!
Shep: Have a care, though! They don't like to be disturbed!
Moira: You must be polite. And speak nothing but the truth. They'll know
if you're lying!
Xero: But of course! What do we look like, a couple of idiot farmers?
Oh, I mean...Oh, dear...
Please take no insult in that, I was just trying to...
Harv-5: Please remove foot from mouth, and then be quiet.
Xero: Aye.
Shep: Hmmm...I guess I'll go light the signal fire...
This ought to be interesting.
Ragark: They should arrive shortly. You'll find them on the cliffs south of
town.
Moira: There's a cave near that statue of King Khelest that leads to the
cliffs.
Xero: You're most kind...all of you.
Ragark: While you're waiting...why don't you make yourself at home!
Xero: We'd be delighted to.
---- Speak to them again.
Ragark: If you fellows need to stay the night, my barn's available as
always!
Moira: Thank you so much!
---- Move to another screen and then go back to their house.
Moira: We owe you our lives! Thanks for all you've done.
Ragark: Thank Keerg you fight better than you look! Just kidding...
----------------------------------------------
Exploring the Town After Defeating All Enemies
----------------------------------------------
----------------
Nolin's Dwelling
----------------
Setting: The house opposite Ragark's Abode. One room with a red covered bed
and rug with a sheep on it and a blazing fire.
Nolin: Darn Zombies are all my sheep! Couldn't you have worked faster?
---- Check the fire.
Harv-5: Yeooooouch!!!
---- Check the cupboard.
o-----------------------------o
| Filled with shepherd's pie, |
| which is a meat pie baked |
| with a top crust of mashed |
| potatoes. |
o-----------------------------o
---- Check the large pot.
o--------------o
| Sheep dip... |
o--------------o
---------------
Sweeney's Suite
---------------
Setting. The house is on its own all the way to the left, and is very basic,
with a sleeping roll, fire and table with a box for a seat.
Sweeney: You may not be a Sweeney...
...and some of you may be made of wood...
...and some of you may be missing your bodies...
But you've got a lot of heart!
Cheers to you!
---- Check the large pot.
o----------------o
| Chamber pot... |
o----------------o
---- Check the wood pile.
o--------------------o
| Less than a day's |
| supply of firewood |
o--------------------o
---- Check the box.
o--------------------------------o
| Crate containing back issues |
| of 'Hoe and Farmer Quarterly.' |
o--------------------------------o
---- Check the storage pots.
o-----------------o
| Winter rations. |
| Contents: |
o-----------------o
o------------------------------o
| Barley |
| Fungus |
| Insect exoskeletons |
| Rodent hairs (trace amounts) |
o------------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Consume at your own risk. |
o---------------------------o
-----------------
The Farmer's Flat
-----------------
Setting: The first house in the Statue Area. Another basic room, with no
proper bed, but a stove and two young men.
Wennam: You know, you should stay right here. We'd have plenty of room and
all the treats you'd ever want. I'd even kick old Denys outta here!
Think about it, okay?
Denys: Uh...sorry I was so rude to you earlier...
But I as at my wits' end...
I'd rather have been cooped up in here with a rotting zombie than
that idiot Wenman.
Say...why don't you hang out for a while? You could sleep in
Wenman's bedroll there. And he could take a sideways stroll off the
rope bridge.
Not that I'm irritated at him or anything. Think about it, okay?
---- Check the large pot.
o------------------------------o
| You find a stash of spirits! |
o------------------------------o
o------------------o
| Party received: |
| Barleyfiz |
| Ale |
| Beer |
| Wine |
o------------------o
---- Check the pile of wood.
o---------------------------o
| You find an amulet hidden |
| in a hollow log! |
o---------------------------o
---- Check the pots.
o-----------------o
| Winter rations. |
| Contents: |
o-----------------o
o------------------------------o
| Barley |
| Fungus |
| Insect exoskeletons |
| Rodent hairs (trace amounts) |
o------------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Consume at your own risk. |
o---------------------------o
--------------
Clancy's Hovel
--------------
Setting: This is the centre left house and contains a large bed, a basin, pots,
wood and a stove...and Clancy. He runs the village shop.
Clancy: Hail the conquering heroes! For you, everything's the right price.
Have a look!
---- Shows the shop inventory.
Clancy: Thanks for droppin' by!
---- Check the chest by the bed.
Harv-5: What squalor...Not even worth looking in here...
Do all of these people house sheep in their domiciles?
---- Check the pot by the bed.
o----------------o
| Chamber pot... |
| !!CAUTION!! |
o----------------o
----------------
Bene-Brokul Prep
----------------
Setting: A schoolhouse with the usual blackboard, and desks, There is a female
teacher in a green dress and red head scarf, and a boy.
Mona: Hello there!
Harv-5: Salutations.
Xero: I say, madam...What is this place?
Mona: Why...It's a school...
Xero: A...school?
Mona: A place of learning. I teach the children of the village here.
Xero: Ah! How interesting! In my day scant few were educated.
Those so privileged were instructed by tutors.
I still remember mine...Eyes of a hawk and the heart of a
sandwolver...
Mona: Oh...well... Things have changed a bit since then.
Harv-5: What is learned here?
Mona: Reading, mathematics, history, arts and crafts...
Xero: Sound disciplines, all!
Mona: ...petty backbiting, bickering and fighting...
Xero: ...
Mona: I mean, they are children, after all...
Harv-5: Hmm...
I'm beginning to understand Stinger more and more...
Mona: (ahem)
Feel free to look around.
The children are out playing. I'm sure they'd love to talk to you!
Xero: By your leave, madam.
---- Speak to her again.
Mona: Thanks for saving the day!
---- Speak to the boy.
Xero: Hello there, young sprout!
Gronk: Gudday...
Harv-5: Why are you inside? The undead are gone. The playground is safe.
Gronk: Because I were bad...
Harv-5: Explain...bad?
Gronk: I putted ice ants in Jimijo's pants!
Xero: Well, that wasn't very sporting of you, was it?
Gronk: Spoze not...but it sure were fun!
He went like this...WEE! EEE! WOO!
And then he runs around like this...
---- Gronk runs from one side of the schoolroom to the other.
Mona: Gronk! You settle down right now or I'll tan your hide!
Gronk: Yes'm...
---- Speak to him again.
Gronk: Can't talk. Teacher will thwack me!
---- Check out the blackboard.
o--------------------------o
| Mathematical Proof for |
| 'Regark's Theorem' which |
| states... |
o--------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| ...no two sheep can |
| occupy the same place at |
| the same point in time. |
o--------------------------o
---- Check out the desk on the third row from the entrance.
Harv-5: There is so much graffiti carved into these desks it's a wonder any
students can write on them...
---- Check the desk at the back of the second row.
o---------------------------------o
| There's a textbook in the desk! |
o---------------------------------o
---- This is another edition of Keerg's Fables.
---- Check the pots by the door.
Harv-5: A chamber pot...in here...?!
How...rustic this village is.
--------------
The Playground
--------------
Setting: Behind the schoolhouse there is the playground and four children are
there, three dressed in red and one (a girl) in green. As they approach, Xero
speaks.
Xero: Hello, children!
Bekisu: Look! It's the zombie crunchers! (she has a big grin)
Jimijo: Hey mister! Where'd you leave your body?
Xero: Why...
I'm not quite certain. I think someone might have taken it.
Cricket: You're made of wood... Bet you hate woodpeckers!
Harv-5: I do not hate them.
Cricket: Termites? I bet you run screaming from them!
Harv-5: Negative.
Doddsy: What if I set a glass on you? Would you have a ring on you like my
ma's coffee table?
Harv-5: I...do not know. Why do you require this information?
Doddsy: Heck if I know!
Jimijo: How many people have you killed?
Xero: Er...well, that's really none of your business...
Bekisu: Didja enjoy it?
Cricket: I killed a bird once. My dog ate it!
Doddsy: Do robots sit or stand when they go potty?
Jimijo: And what about the head? How does it go potty?
Xero: Run for your lives! A zombie!
Bekisu: AAIIEEEEEE!
Cricket: WAAAAAGH!
Jimijo: Outta my way!
Doddsy: You're okay...
Xero: Eh? In what sense?
Doddsy: Well, usually when we ask weird questions, we get told to hush up.
You stayed and listened to us...
...and by the way, I knew you were tricking us!
Ain't no more monsters here!
Xero: Glad to see some healthy kids...Gives you hope.
Harv-5: A query for you. How DO you go potty?
Xero: You don't even want to know, my friend.
---- Talk to them all again.
Bekisu: That was a mean trick. Funny, but mean.
Doddsy: Some day. I'm gonna be a Mage, cause I'm so smart!
Jimijo: Ever had ice ants in your pants? It's not fun!
Cricket: I'm called cricket because I can do this...
SQUEE! SQUEE!
Get it?
---------------
The Windy Ledge
---------------
Setting: From inside the cave they emerge on a windy ledge. Turning right they
find some stones set in the cliff.
Harv-5: Those odd stones in the cliff face...
The crypts of the ancient warriors of Khelest...
There has been too much violent death on Arkose...
---- Go all the way left and along a narrow ledge.
Harv-5: Dead end...
It would take a lifetime to reach the bottom if you fell from here..
---- Go down the steps in the rock, and then right.
------------------
The Windtravellers
------------------
Setting: There are four people standing here and a green kite poised above
them. One person is Shep, and the others comprise one with green shoes and a
green head covering, and the other two have red shoes and scarves. They all
wear dark glasses.
Xero: Sky and Stars!
Shep: Something like that...
Harv-5: Impressive...
The vessel is of a technology completely alien to me.
It rivals any Gadgeteer work and is even more graceful.
Shep: Uh, yeah... Well, you wanted to meet them...Here they are!
Onda: May your heart soar forever, Shep.
Shep: And yours, Onda. We thank you for coming.
Syl: Why have you summoned us?
Shep: These two need to speak with you.
They fought for our homes. They saved our lives.
We felt obligated to help, despite our vow to respect your privacy.
Onda: We understand, Shep. And we will speak with them. Leave us.
Shep: As you wish.
---- Shep leaves.
Syl: Who are you?
Xero: My name is Xero, of House Von Moon. This is Harv-5.
Onda: We greet the Magewarrior Von Moon and his...companion.
Syl: What is it you wish of us?
Xero: We are on a mission for the Magi.
Onda: The Magi... Yes, we know of them.
Harv-5: We seek transport to the lands of Uhndrash.
The Magi believe you can provide this.
Xero: All other avenues are blocked... You are our last resort...
Onda: We sense you speak the truth.
An enemy works against you. It seeks to confine you here.
Syl: We travel where others cannot.
Onda: Your quest has merit...We will aid you.
Syl: Our son, Davin, shall be your guide.
Onda: He is at your service.
Davin: Bound to the land as you are, your hearts seem heavy to me...
...but they broadcast your intent, as well.
I will do my best to guide you, strangers.
Xero: We appreciate your company.
Onda: Farewell, Magewarrior. May fortune smile upon you and yours.
Xero: Thank you both.
Davin: We must leave soon to take advantage of the thermals.
If it gets too late, they'll be to weak to take us to Uhndrash.
Xero: Very well, lad. Ready to fly, old man?
Harv-5: I believe we shall be gliding, but...yes, I am prepared.
Davin: Excellent. Let us all soar among the clouds!
---- The glider sets out. There is an FMV.
===============================================================================
7. UHNDRASHI PLATEAUS 0070
===============================================================================
Setting: The glider has landed on a desert mountain plateau.
Xero: Ahhh...
The sun-kissed plateaus...
Beautiful mesas...
Just as I remember them!
Harv-5: You originate from this locale?
Xero: I am of this land, yes. It;'s been a long time!
I can't wait to see Uhndrashin! the grandest city on Arkose!
Davin: Uh,,,actually...that's not the case anymore, sir.
Xero: What?
I know how you all marvel at Karillon! Uhndrashin makes it look
childish!
Davin: Well, it might have...before it got covered by tons of sand.
Xero: Whaaaaat?!
Davin: Take a look to the west, sir. That big sandbox is what remains of
the Uhndrashi Kingdom.
Xero: Gods above...how could this happen?
Davin: The same thing that happened to so many other cities...
Harv-5: The Darg... The hand of the enemy... There can be no other answer.
Xero: There...there will be a reckoning. I swear it!
Davin: I hope you are right, sir. The world depends upon it.
Harv-5: The boy is right. We cannot fail. We must complete our mission.
Xero: Yes...honour requires it.
Davin: I'll be waiting for you here, sirs. May fortune favour you!
Harv-5: Many thanks.
Come Xero. i see a settlement in the distance.
Davin: That'd be a nomad camp. If anyone knows where the object you seek
is, it would be them.
Xero: Then we shall seek their counsel.
Take care, good Davin. We shall see you soon.
---- Speak to him again.
Davin: Greetings, sirs. Do you have the Orb?
Harv-5: Er...no
Davin: Are we to leave?
Harv-5: No...not yet.
Davin: I see. You are indeed curious folk...
I shall remain until you say otherwise.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. First Visit 0071
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They arrive in front of a blue/grey building.
Xero: Another proud place, rent asunder by time and the enemy.
Harv-5: It appears to be a stronghold of sorts.
Xero: It's an Uhndrashi Outpost. They used to line the plateaus.
Many soldiers were stationed here. Sentinels awaiting the enemy.
Harv-5: You were among them weren't you?
Xero: No. My place was at the front line... Until Artelier was overran.
Harv-5: And then?
Xero: My commander went me to the King with the dark news.
The King...did not take it well. In a fit of rage, he sent me to
the dungeon.
Harv-5: Most unpleasant.
Xero: It was then I lost my head... Or rather, my body!
Harv-5: I am curious. How is it that you live? Other humans perish when
such an event occurs.
Xero: A Magewarrior isn't entirely human. The flesh body is replaced.
Only the head remains. Only the head is truly alive...
...truly human.
The magic which created me lets my head live on...
...if you can call it living.
Harv-5: It is closer to life than the state of existence I know.
Xero: ...
You're right, of course. Forgive me!
Harv-5: No offense was taken.
Xero: It's just...I fear this punishment will never end.
Harv-5: Have faith! If the Magi cannot create a new body for you, the
Gadgeteers surely can.
Xero: Of course. Well! Enough reminiscing! Let's get going, shall we?
-------------------
Ancient Sentry Post
-------------------
Setting: A stone building with various old items scattered around. They check
the items.
o---------------------o
| Empty crate covered |
| with meaningless |
| symbols. |
o---------------------o
o---------------o
| Mead barrels, |
| long empty. |
o---------------o
o--------------------------o
| Ancient food containers. |
o--------------------------o
o-----------------o
| Empty bottle of |
| Baron de Claan |
| '36 |
o-----------------o
-----------------------
The Green Path Junction
-----------------------
Setting: At the second junction of the green paths they stop as Xero reflects
again on the devastation.
Xero: Puckered navel of Arkose! This is all that remains of the Great
Road?!
Harv-5: Apparently...Unless the road was capable of camouflaging itself.
Xero: Are you mad? A road is a road!
Harv-5: I see. Where does the road lead?
Xero: East leads to the Capital...
...er, the desert...
North leads to Artelier...
...or what's left of her.
Tragic end for such a city.
Harv-5: Our course is clear. We must go east.
Xero: East it is, old man.
===============================================================================
8. SILTHERIA 0080
===============================================================================
Skeleton of flying two legged thing, to the left of the entrancee to the
desert.
o--------------------------------------o
| Ancient petroglyph. |
| It's meaning has been lost over time.|
o--------------------------------------o
Sad orange sun, just below the sign for Siltheria.
o----------------------------------o
| '...an unhappy Mag, tormented by |
| Priscil, his nemesis. |
o----------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Western Map
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South of the eastern entrance is a skeleton of long tailed animal.
o----------------------o
| Food debris from the |
| aftermath of a frat |
| party. Tread with |
| caution |
o----------------------o
On the shores of the northern water, close to the oasis is the tail half of a
fish:
o-----------------------------o
| Sashimi Shores, a favourite |
| vacation spot |
o-----------------------------o
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Nomad Camp 0081
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting. An oasis in the desert where there is a large encampment of colourful
tents and three people clad in mauve and with white head coverings and green
shoes.
Xero: These tents... Tapestries... All so familiar...
Temai: Halt, outsider!
Yussif: Move another inch and perish!
Pojim: I'd hold still if I were you.
Harv-5: Be at ease. Our intentions are peaceful. We seek...
Temal: Silence! We'll do the talking here!
Yussif: Who are you dogsons, and why are you here?
Harv-5: ...
Xero: ...
Yussif: Well?!?
Pojim: Temal did tell them not to speak, Yussif.
Yussif: (sigh)
Temal?
Command them to speak!
Temal: Eh?
Oh, right!
Answer the questions, strangers!
Xero: My name is Xero. This is my companion Harv-5. We're here on a
matter most urgent.
Harv-5: We would speak with your leaders. Time is of the essence.
Yussif: Leaders?
Only one commands the sons of Uhndrash!
Xero: Sons...of Uhndrash?
Termal: We shall deliver your request. Then he, and he alone will decide
your fate.
Harv-5: Please define "fate."
Yussif: The Poobah will decide whether to hear you...
Termal: ...or to feed you to his dogs!
Harv-5: I see. I hope he decides wisely.
Pojim: Oh, I wouldn't worry. The Poobah is most wise. He'll be sure to...
Temal: POJIM! Inform the Poobah of the situation.
We will guard these...these...boganissh!
Pojim: As you command, Temal!
---- Pojim walks away into the camp.
Xero: Boganissh?! Of all the nerve!
Harv-5: You understand their language?
Xero: I most certainly do! It's a little rough, but it's Uhndrashin.
Harv-5: Then these people are...
Xero: As they say... The sons of Uhndrash. My people...
Temal: Keep quiet, you!
Yussif: You'll get your chance to talk soon enough!
Temal: Right!
Yussif: Granted, they may be your last words, but...
Temal: Yussif! Enough babble.
Harv-5: This does not bode well.
Xero: Leave it to me.
---- Pojim returns.
Pojim: Strangers! Follow me to the presence of the Great Poobah!
Temal: You heard him. Move it!
Xero: Let's go Harv-5.
------------------
The Poobah's Tent: The Grand One's Tent
------------------
Setting: They follow Pojim to a beautiful blue tent. Inside it is decorated
with rich red rugs and there are many pots. There are three people waiting.
Fatima: Such strange creatures! They look dangerous, husband.
Poobah: Relax, my wife. They are no match for Uhndrashi warriors!
Old Man: That remains to be seen, sire.
Poobah: Humph! Who are you, strangers? Why do you disturb my sleep?
Xero: Uhndrashin tu mikmar! Vold ur Bah, Chem ul Sarn!
Poobah: !!!
Fatima: The head...
It speaks the sacred tongue...
Old Man: Remarkable...
Harv-5: What did you just say?
Xero: Loosely translated, 'Uhndrashi are supreme! First in Battle, Last
to Die!'
Harv-5: I see. This is a good thing?
Xero: Standard greeting from a warrior to a leader, you see.
Poobah: I would know how you learned our sacred language, strange one!
Fatima: For generations no one but the Uhndrashi holy ones have spoken it!
Xero: That's simple. I'm an Uhndrashi Magewarrior.
Poobah : Whaaaaat? Impossible! The Magewarriors died with their King.
Old Man: I think that may not be entirely accurate, sire.
Xero: My name is Xero. I am of House Von Moon. Fifth Uhndrashin Legion..
...and I am at your service.
Poobah: Can this be true, Old Man?!
Old Man: We shall soon see. Xero!
Tulshad uln Marama dul Pobahnin?
Xero: Tulshad uln Marama aht Sarna.
Old Man: HePoobah is as he claims. Only a Magewarrior could have answered
that question correctly.
Poobah: Quaking Uhndrash! What brings you back to us, brother?
Xero: My liege, my companion and I seek the Orb of the Heavens.
Poobah: A fitting quest for a Magewarrior. Has the time come at last?
Xero: It has, my liege. The great evil has returned.
Poobah: Then you shall have our help! Old Man...
Make ready...!
Old Man: By your command, sire.
---- The Old Man leaves the tent.
Xero: Many thanks. Does the Orb still lie within the King's Vault?
Poobah: It does.
Fatima: The bones of failed robbers are a testament to its power.
Xero: Worry not, good lady. The Vault is generous to the righteous and
the just!
Poobah: Speak with the Old Man. He shall give you what you need to enter
the Ziggurat.
Xero: You have my thanks, sire.
Poobah: Uhndrashin tu mikmar, Xero.
Xero: Uhndrashin tu mikmar, Poobahnin!
---- Speak to them again.
Poobah: Good luck to you, warriors. May the Vault find you worthy!
Fatima: How handsome you are! Strange...but handsome!
Pojim: I told you the Poobah was wise. Everything's fine now!
---- They leave.
Xero: Ah! This brings back memories.
Harv-5: I'm sure. It must be pleasant for you.
Xero: Not exactly. It's tragic seeing the land in such a state...
Harv-5: Yes...the desert is harsh.
Xero: But, I'm glad to see that the Uhndrashi live on! Such spirit! Such
honour!
Harv-5: You...are fortunate to have such a place to call home.
Xero: Something the matter?
Harv-5: Negative.
Xero: If you say so, my mech friend.
Harv-5: Though I am curious...
Xero: Yes?
Harv-5: What did the Old Man say to you? Before the Poobah?
Xero: You mean 'Tulshad uln Marama dul Pobahnin'?
Harv-5: Yes.
Xero: Roughly translated: 'Do you, and all with you, swear allegiance to
the Poobah?'
Harv-5: I see. And what did you say in reply?
Xero: 'Tulshad uln Marama aht Sarna'.
Harv-5: Which means?
Xero; Uh...something like, "We willingly forfeit our lives."
Harv-5: I suspected as much.
Xero: Look at it this way, friend...You're now an Uhndrashi warrior!
Harv-5: I'm sure Stinger will be jealous.
Xero: Heh heh. Oh you can count on that! .
---- This is the end of their conversation.
--------------
Armourer's Tent
--------------
Hassan: Hmmm...you're an odd pair.
...and ugly to boot!
Harv-5: Odd...
...ugly?!?
Hassan: Ah, but standing next to Hassan, everyone is ugly! It can't be
helped!
Harv-5: Uh...okay...
I think I understand now...
Hassan: As for your shapes, well...I can make armour for anyone!
---- He displays the shop inventory.
Hassan: If you live, come back!
----------------------
Curious Old Man's Tent
----------------------
Setting: This small tent contains a few pots and a lamp, and the Old Man.
---- Check the things.
o-------------------------o
| Palm wine alcohol lamp. |
| Dual mantle system.. |
o-------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| Bedding stuffed with soft |
| palm fibre. Sheets and |
| blankets made from Uhndrashi |
| mountain goat wool. |
o------------------------------o
---- They speak to the Old Man
Old Man: So...
...you would challenge the Vault?
Xero: It is our honour.
Old Man: It will be your end! Ha ha ha!
Harv-5: You would laugh at our deaths?
Old Man: I admit it, I find death amusing. But not any more than life!
Harv-5: I believe I hear the sound of one hand clapping...
Old Man: Oh! A robot cynic! I love it!
No, I would not relish your deaths. I'm simply surprised at how
easily you offer up your lives...!
But that is for you to decide. I'm merely the bearer of bad news,
here.
Xero: How so? What do we need to know about the Ziggurat?
Old Man: First you must pass the tests of the Twin Gods.
Next you will be judged by the Khytynni.
Harv-5: Khytynni?
Xero: 'Those who Guard...'
...protectors of the Tombs...
Old Man: A cranky bunch, the Khytynni!
Xero: So I've heard.
Harv-5: What comes next?
Old Man: Assuming the Khytynni don't slaughter you on the spot?
Harv-5: Yes. Assuming that.
Why am I not comforted?
Old Man: Because you are wise...
...for a keg with legs. Haaaa ha ha!
Xero: Anything else, elder?
Old Man: Hmmm...Ah yes! You'll need these!
o---------------------------------o
| Party Receives Temple Crystals. |
o---------------------------------o
Harv-5: What are these jewels for?
Old Man: Ah! Hold 'em before the temple doors. Let the light strike 'em!
Xero: Ah, yes. They are like keys...
Old Man: Indeed! At high noon, the Sun Temple will open.
Xero: ...and in the dead of night, the Moon Temple will open, no?
Old Man: Yes! Perhaps you're the right ones for this job after all!
Xero: Many thanks, elder.
Old Man: Think nothing of it. Be sure and prepare well.
Harv-5: We shall.
Old Man: Rest...clear your mind. Only the fit survive.
Xero: Wise words. We'll follow them.
Old Man: It's about time! Haaa!
Come back to me when you're ready to begin.
Harv-5: We will.
---- Speak to him again.
Old Man: So! Here you are! Ready to tackle the Ziggurat?
Yes
No.
#Select No.
Old Man: Have it your way. After all, it's your quest!
##Select Yes.
Old Man: Very good! Here's the plan. You two need to go the the Moon Temple
first.
Once that's done, assuming you make it, you'll be ready for the Sun
Temple. Now go get some sleep!
-------------------
Large Colourful Tent
-------------------
Setting: Outside the tent there is a guard.
Guard: Halt! No men may enter this tent.
Harv-5: Explain
Xero: Harv-5, if I'm correct this is the Poobah's, uh, home.
Guard: These are the Poobah's chambers, yes.
Harv-5: Light dawns... I understand. There is valuable...
...property within.
Xero: Er...well...yes.
But now that I think about it...
...you and I are really no threat to the Poobah's...property!
Harv-5: Correct. I have no interest...
...and now you have no...
Xero: ENOUGH!
Don't go there, Harv-5. You'll only get me depressed...
Guard: No loitering, by order of the Poobah! Move along!
Xero: Come Harv-5. Our business lies elsewhere.
---- Try to enter again.
Guard: You're not on the list! Whatever you are, you can't go in!
------------
Guards' Tent
------------
A large tent with many beds on the ground. There are a couple of baskets.
---- Check the beds.
Harv-5: This looks inviting but we'd better keep going...
---- Check the central fire.
Harv-5: What ARE they burning in here, anyway?
---- Check the baskets
o--------------------o
| Very dirty laundry |
| hamper... |
o--------------------o
-------------
Trader's Tent
-------------
Setting: The large tent in the middle of the right side of the camp. The place
is bright with rugs and lamps and many pots and baskets for sale.
---- Check the stuff.
Harv-5: Typical, if uncomfortable, sleeping cushions. Filled with shaved
palm fronds and animal fur.
o------------------------------o
| Jumbo desert chamber pots... |
o------------------------------o
o-----------------o
| Prayer scrolls. |
o-----------------o
o----------------------o
| It's a slightly used |
| bedroll. Very few |
| unsightly stains... |
o------------- --------o
o------------------------o
| Positively frightening |
| barrels of fermented |
| foodstuffs... |
o------------------------o
o----------------------o
| Mysterious fermented |
| foodstuffs... |
o----------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Scale certified yearly by |
| the High Regent of Weights |
| and Measures. |
o----------------------------o
---- Speak to the trader.
Huran: Anyone heading off to find the Orb will need supplies!
Everything's on sale today!
Huran: Come again warriors...
Bring lots of money with you!
--------------
Sleeping Tent
-------------
Setting: This tent is at the right and a woman with pale blue trousers and
a face covering is waiting outside.
Attendant: Hello, warriors. Please enter this tent so you may rest...
-----------------------
Leaving for the Ziggurat
-----------------------
Setting: After talking again to the Old Man, the party will sleep and then
be shown inside the tent at night. They go outside into a moonlit night.
Xero: Let us move quickly...The darkness will aid us in entering the
Ziggurat
---- Check any tent.
o----------------------------o
| Everyone is asleep in here |
o----------------------------o
---- Move to the entrance
Harv-5: We've got to hurry if we're to search the Ziggurat for the Temple of
the Moon before daybreak.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Ziggurat 0082
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They enter this location before finding the Nomad Camp. There is a
large area with two large statues on either side and the Ziggurat is at the far
end of the screen.
Xero: Great Mojo burning! This is awful...utterly heartbreaking...!
Harv-5: A curious statement, as you have no heart.
Xero: Fine, then it's "utterly head breaking..."
At any rate I now know what you and the others have felt...
The pain of loss...of a home ravaged by the enemy...
Harv-5: It is the tie that binds us.
Xero: Aye, that it is. Strange bedfellows are we.
Harv-5: You are fortunate that Stinger is not present.
Such a statement would fare...poorly with him.
Xero: Ha! That it would!
Off we go now...
---- Check the large circular structure
o-------------------------o
| The (formerly) eternal |
| flame of the Great King |
| Khriss 'kitchickkkk. |
o-------------------------o
Check the left hand stone statue.
o----------------------------------o
| The fabled insectoid thief, |
| 'Khroo'kkkhikk 'cukkkk,' |
| who stole the hot skin of the
| sun god and spread it over the |
| land where it became the desert. |
o----------------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| It is said the sun god |
| removed its skin only in |
| the evening, while bathing |
| in the Great Milky Stream, |
| an astronomical 'waterway.' |
o-----------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| Khroo'kkkhikk 'cukkkk,' snuck |
| into the heavenly realm |
| while on a cosmic journey |
| of the spirit. |
o-------------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Fortunately the sun god |
| was able to grow a new |
| 'hide' before tsunup the |
| next day. |
o--------------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| The deity merely laughed at |
| the boldness of the little |
| insectoid thief. |
o-----------------------------o
---- They approach the Ziggurat close up and check out the statues.
o------------------------------o
| The fabled insectoid prince, |
| Khris'khisstt 'ktchickkk,' |
| and devourere of king |
| Khriss 'kitchickkkk. |
o------------------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| The fabled insectoid queen, |
| 'Khroosss'khiss 'ckkkk,' |
| bride of king Khriss |
| 'kitchickkkk and mother of |
| his 654,376 offspring. |
o------------------------------o
---------------------
The Ziggurat at Night
---------------------
Setting: After completing all the events in the Nomad's Camp and leaving that
location the party end up at the entrance to the Ziggurat.
Xero: Even at night, this place is still morbid.
Harv-5: If anything, it's worse. The statues seem to have a life of their
own.
The night, like a void, wraps the land in cold fingers.
Xero: Er...That will be all, thank you.
Harv-5: If you insist.
---- They move closer to the main building.
Xero: Here goes nothing...!
Harv-5: Should you not say "Here comes something!" instead?
Xero: What a tedious machine! That's just a figure of speech!
Harv-5: ...Colloquialisms...idioms...
Your species makes a game out of everything.
Xero: Well, get used to it if you plan on living amongst us!
---- They walk forwards to the Temple.
o--------------------------------o
| Xero uses the Temple Crystals! |
o--------------------------------o
Harv-5: I believe your "nothing" has indeed happened.
Xero: Huh? Have a little patience!
You see? It worked! Shall we?
Harv-5: Why not?
---- The party forms as one.
---------------
The Moon Temple
----------------
Setting: A large hallway with pillars on the walls and signs of the moon and
stars. There is one doorway to the right.
Xero: Ah, how the mind wanders...
Harv-5: What is amiss? Have you been enchanted? Are we under attack?
Xero: Oh, I was enchanted here...Long ago.
Harv-5: A memory. Explain, please.
Xero: Certainly. This place...The Temple of the Moon...
Once, it was filled with viragoes...Many of which were quite
stunning!
Harv-5: Viragoes...that would be an astrological sign?
Xero: Heh heh heh...not quite. More like a sign of the times, if you get
my drift!
Harv-5: I do not. But...for some reason I am...remembering...something odd.
Xero: Ooh! Do tell! Robotic cravings?
Harv-5: Negative. I...recall a woman...Trained by priestesses...
...as chaste as the moon...A bride...
Xero: Surely, someone you knew long ago. A former owner, perhaps.
Harv-5: I...do not think so.
Xero: Er...why don't you run a test or something as we proceed?
Harv-5: Acknowledged.
---------------
Guardian's Room
---------------
Setting: Through the door at the far end of the pool room, they turn left
into a room that has 6 stone cannons? and a golden statue.
Harv-5: Alert! Spiritual presence detected!
Guardian: We greet you. Let your spirits be bathed in the gentle glow of the
Moon Goddess...
Harv-5: The statue is talking. This is peculiar.
Xero: Sssh! That voice... Could it be...a woman?
Guardian: Aye...a woman. As all the guardians of this temple have been.
Xero: We are...honoured, Guardian.
Guardian: We know of your quest... Your stand against corruption... Against
evil...and chaos.
The blessings of the night are now yours.
Xero: Many thanks, good lady.
Guardian: We remember that voice... Fair Xero...
Xero: !!! I knew that voice was familiar!
Yes, I, my lady. It is good to hear your voice again, too.
Guardian: We wish you well, Xero. Honour the Goddess in your quest.
The Moon Key is yours.
o----------------------o
| Earned the Moon Key! |
o----------------------o
Harv-5: You...knew that spirit?
Xero: Part of it...once...When she was very alive. She had the softest
laughter...
Harv-5: At least she is with friends.
Xero: Yes. this is true. Let's be going, old man.
Middle Door
----------
Setting: The central left door in the large pool room.
Xero: Clever design. this. One must have two keys to open the locks.
--------------
The Sun Temple
--------------
Leave the Ziggurat and return to it during the day.
Xero: Right then,. Tally ho!
---- They walk forwards to the Temple.
o--------------------------------o
| Xero uses the Temple Crystals! |
o--------------------------------o
Harv-5: I believe it is broken.
Xero: Eh?
Harv-5: Nothing is happening. Nothing has happened. I believe nothing will
happen. It is taking too long.
Xero: O-ho! I believe someone is feeling anxious!
Harv-5: You are in error. I lack that ability.
Xero: A watched pot never boils!
Harv-5: Incorrect. Given the proper amount of time and radiant energy...
Xero: (Sigh)
Harv-5: Figure of speech?
Xero: Figure of speech...It's meant to say "Focussing on something you
can't control is futile."
Harv-5: Ah. What a descriptive image.
Xero: The idea is to find something to do whilst the "process you can't
control"...uh...
...completes itself.
Harv-5: Acknowledged.
---- Harv-5 begins to jump in the air and run around.
Xero: !!!
What are you doing?!
Harv-5: An alternative activity, while waiting for the...
---- The door opens.
Harv-5: Ah. Success.
Xero: You are one odd duck, aren't you...?
Harv-5: Let us go.
Xero: Grand idea. Let's.
---- The party re-form and enter the Sun Door.
------------
The Entrance
------------
Setting: The Entrance hallway is decorated with red suns and pillars.
Xero: Just...just as I remember it. The Sun Temple...
Harv-5: You have been here?
Xero: Once... It was part of my ...punishment. I as chastised by the
rulers of each Temple, before being banished below...
Harv-5: There is no one here now. There will be no punishment.
Xero: Oh, don't be so sure...Some things never change...
---- In the next room check the female image on the door pillars.
o--------------------------------o
| Likeness of Kh'mai, the |
| legendary goddess who fell |
| from grace when she declined |
| the attentions of the sun god. |
o--------------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| The angry sun god fused her |
| body into solid rock, and she |
| was placed in his celestial |
| palace and forced to watch |
| over his household. |
o-------------------------------o
The Sun Room
------------
Setting: A large room with a floor marked out like the rays of the sun. There
are three doors to the right and one at the far end. It is the mirror image
of the moon temple.
Right Hand Room
---------------
---- Check the lamp
o--------------------------------o
| Eternal lamp of the sun, |
| fuelled by Chi'ka, the essence |
| of fire... |
o--------------------------------o
---- Check the decorative chains.
o-----------------------------o
| Solid gold votive chains... |
| These symbolise a binding |
| connection to the sun god. |
o------------------------- -o
Middle Room
-----------
Xero: Clever design. this. One must have two keys to open the locks.
Third Room
----------
Nothing of interest.
---------------
Guardian's Room
---------------
Setting: Through the door at the far end of the Ray room, they turn right
into a room that has a large bright orange statue of a winged human figure, in
the centre
Harv-5: Alert! A spectral entity approaches! Prepare to...!
Xero: Calm down, please! We're in no danger, my good man.
Guardian: Your minds...however curious...are now with me...
Your quest...
Xero: Yes?
Guardian: ...is one of honour and integrity. The blessings of the Sun Father
shine upon you!
Harv-5: I detect no emanations.
Xero: Sssh...Just take this on faith!
Guardian: You...Von Moon... This mind recognises you from long ago. You...
were punished.
Xero: Yes. And for much longer than a year and a day, I'll have you know.
Guardian: That was unfortunate. You were denied the honourable death due to
a warrior.
Perhaps you shall find it below...?
Xero: Perhaps. I'd just as soon not. I've a matter to settle...
Guardian: Vengeance...The Sun Father understands this. Your fires burn
bright, despite the passing of the years.
May you live to find peace one day.
Xero: Many thanks, Guardian.
Guardian: The Sun Key is yours to use. Enter the Vault with honour!
o---------------------o
| Earned the Sun Key! |
o---------------------o
Harv-5: Old friend of yours?
Xero: Not exactly...Though I did feel the presence of the old High
Priest...
If only for a moment...
Harv-5: And?
Xero: And if he were here and I had arms, I'd strangle him for putting me
in that hole!
Stodgy old fool!
Harv-5: Much time has passed. We must look to the future, now.
Xero: As you say.
---------------------
The Middle Door Again
---------------------
Setting: Armed with both keys they return to the central door.
Xero: Well, old man, the time has come. Are you ready?
Harv-5: I am ever ready.
Xero: Yes, well...
Once we enter this delightful portion of the tomb...
We'll not be able to leave until we've found the Orb.
Harv-5: Acceptable.
o-------------------------------o
| Enter the Tomb? |
| Yes! We're prepared! |
| No, I think I need more time. |
o------------------------------o
#Select No.
Harv-5: Let's stock up on supplies first. We could be in there a long time.
##Select Yes.
Harv-5: Let's see what's in there. Open the doors!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Hall of Spheres 0083
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A room dominated by a central pillar with pillars set into the walls,
and steps leading to the right and left.
Xero: Wheeeew! Time has NOT been good to this place. What a stench!
And the decor!
Harv-5: You have been here before?
Xero: Briefly. I was on a guard detail once when the Khytynni were
brought in. Dreadful creatures!
Harv-5: Khytynni? You mentioned them briefly when we were with the Old Man.
Xero: Yes. They're a kind of insect man...
They were created by King Uhndrash to serve as tomb guardians.
Harv-5: I understand.
Xero: Don't worry, old man. I'm sure they're long dead...
Harv-5: Alert! Enemy presence detected.
Xero: Eh? Settle down! Probably just rats.
---- A strange green insectoid human, with bright red claws and comes
into view.
Harv-5: Very curious rats, these...
Xero: Oh, do shut up.
---- There is a battle.
Xero: Then it's true after all...
The Khytynni are immortal... Still here...after all this time.
Harv-5: Just like you.
Xero: Yes. Like me...and Mannheim.
Deadly relics from a long-dead past.
We'll need to be careful, old man. The Khytynni are devious, and
quite deadly.
Harv-5: I am prepared.
Xero: That makes one of us.
------------------
Steps to the Right
-----------------
Setting: The steps to the right of the main room lead upwards towards the moon
temple doorway.
Harv-5: Let us not turn back now. We must find the Orb.
-------
The Web
-------
Setting: A room that leads off the Quad area and here there is a huge web and
bones.
Xero: What the devil... This definitely wasn't in here before!
---- They move forwards to see the thing more clearly. There is a person
caught in the web and many what look like green eggs.
Harv-5: It is organic. This is the lair of several spiders, or their kin...
Gadgeteer: The webs were your first clue, eh?
Xero: I say, dear fellow. you're in a bit of a bind!
Harv-5: A Gadgeteer... Here...
Xero: Gadgeteer? So that's what one looks like! Been hearing a lot
about you fellows!
Gadgeteer: I am pleased. I will give you an autograph...
...or give your robot a tune-up... As long as you...
Xero: Yes? Get to the point, man!
Gadgeteer: Free me! Immediately, eh?
Xero: Oh. Yes. Sorry. Hang on a moment, please...
---- The clacking and clicking sound of something approaching is heard.
Gadgeteer: Vracka, Great Stamen supreme, give me strength...! Protect me!
Guide me!
---- Harv-5 and Xero turn around to face the entrance.
Gadgeteer: Head... Mechanoid... Don't leave, eh?
Xero: The Khytynni, old boy?
Harv-5: Negative. Too many legs...
Gadgeteer: Head... Mechanoid... Your assistance, eh?
---- They turn back to the Gadgeteer.
Xero: Oh! Right, right! This may sting a little...
Gadgeteer: What are you...
---- There is a blast of circular psi energy, and the Gadgeteer to the
ground.
Gadgeteer: ...doing.
Xero: Quickest way I could think of, dear boy.
Harv-5: Alert! Combat is imminent!
Gadgeteer: Combat...ahhh. I've been looking forward to this!
Harv-5: You have...?
Gadgeteer: Believe it! No one strings me up and gets away with it!
---- They fight a battle.
Xero: Dreadful creatures!
Gadgeteer: Aye. Foul things got the jump on me once. Never again!
Xero: Er..right. Well! I'm glad we cut you loose, sir.
Your noisemaker came in quite handy!
Gadgeteer: Noisemaker? you mean my energy weapon?
Xero: Yes.
Gadgeteer: Ah. Firing it at those creatures was...satisfying
Harv-5: This is unusual. Explain yourself.
Gadgeteer: They...displeased me. They deserved to die.
Harv-5: A Gadgeteer...advocating and enjoying violence?
Gadgeteer: It is why I was banished forever from Eyre.
I'm...a little hotheaded, you could say.
Harv-5: You are a deviant. One of the Shunned.
Xero: Well, deviant or not, we could use an extra hand...
...if you're interested.
Gadgeteer: You would be hunting for the Orb, eh?
Xero: Er...yes... Yes we are.
Gadgeteer: Your intentions?
Xero: We intend on returning it to the Magi.
With luck, they'll be able to use it to...
Gadgeteer: Right. Skip the rest of the details. Feel like I can trust you.
Harv-5: It is the truth. But...if it were not?
Gadgeteer: I would introduce you to Mabel.
Harv-5: Mabel? That would be your...mate?
Gadgeteer: No. My gun. Multiple-Armament Biotech Energy Launcher.
That spells MABE:...and she's one mean lady.
Xero: Ah. Right. Mabel... Well, I'm not one to offend a lady...
Gadgeteer: You're one smart Head, you are.
Harv-5: Let us chat later. When we are safe...
Xero: Right! Well... Will you be joining us, mister...?
Gadgeteer: That I will. And...
The name's...
Quick! What is my name?
o-------------------------------o
| Clemett has joined the party! |
o-------------------------------o
Xero: Welcome aboard. Let's get going!
---- They join up again with Clemett learning new skills.
---- Check the bones
o----------------------o
| Human leg bones |
| picked very clean... |
o----------------------o
------------------
An Ancient Library
------------------
Setting: Exit this room and go straight across to find the library with many
books to read . The response is the same whoever is Pointman.
---- Check the various sparkling books on the shelves.
---- Read the second book: "Medical Doctor Training Materials".
Clemett:: Everyone knows this. What a waste of time!
--------------------
The Secret Storeroom
--------------------
Setting: They check out the flashing coloured square on the ground.
Xero: Hmm. Dead end. This could complicate matters.
Harv-5: The barrier is large, but old. We may be able to blast a pathway.
Clemett: One moment, eh?
I can fix this control box...
o------------------o
| Device repaired! |
o------------------o
Clemett: There. Better than new, eh?
Xero: Jolly good! Well done, sir.
Clemett: In the blood. After you...?
Xero: Smashing idea. Cheers!
---- They go through this opening and down to the left and through a room
to the right, finally reaching the Crypt.
---------
The Crypt
---------
Setting: A room with stone graves and sun symbols and a central platform with
a sun emblem. There is a swop head here.
Xero: King's Honour... A crypt.
Harv-5: Should we leave?
Clemett: Are they not dead? Who's going to mind?
Xero: Now hold on! This is a sacred place, and...
---- The pale figure of a spirit appears in the centre of the platform.
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaa...
You...
You would be warriors?
Clemett: By Orlot's rusted stamen!
Xero: You were saying, Clemett? Something about "who's going to mind?"...
Clemett: Yeah, yeah...
Harv-5: Stand ready. It may attack.
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaa...
You are safe.
My purpose is to tend this hallowed place. To serve those who are
worthy.
Xero: We apologise if we have offended you.
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaaa...
Apologies are not necessary.
You bear the blessings of Sun and Moon...
Clemett: Ah. Those. Whew!
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaaa...
This place, and this humble spirit, are at your service.
Clemett: I knew going through those temples was worth the effort.
That crazy old nomad was right, eh?
Xero: Shhh!
Spirit...we thank you for your kindness...
But as you can see, we are not dead. We have no need for your
services.
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaaa...
You are alive, yes...
But even warriors such as you need sleep...
Xero: Er...yes, that's true
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaaa... Then you may sleep here.
Clemett: In a tomb?! No offense, but... That's repulsive!
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaaa! Perhaps. But it is also sacred ground.
The Khytynni will not disturb you here.
Harv-5: We should accept the offer. We are in need of a safe haven.
Xero: I'm with Harv-5. Besides...
These sarcophagi look surprisingly comfortable!
Clemett: Gha! Sleeping with the dead... You people are bizarre!
Spirit: Sssssssss...hhhhaaaaaaaaa...
Do your minds and bodies need rest?
Yes.
No.
#Select No.
---- Nothing happens.
##Select Yes.
o-------------------------------o
| Party restored through sleep. |
o-------------------------------o
---- Speak to the spirit again.
Spirit: Welcome twice-blessed warriors. Do your minds and bodies need rest?
Yes
No
---- Check the various tombstones in the crypt, from left to right.
o------------------o
| Z'hig Loon |
| Emperor |
| First Dynasy |
| Died of a broken |
| heart. |
o------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| Z'mar Rurrina |
| Emperor's Concubine. |
| Died of insults (as well as |
| 2 or 3 dozen stones) hurled |
| by an angry Empress. |
o-----------------------------o
o----------------------o
| You see some strange |
| graffiti. It reads, |
| "Keerg was here." |
o----------------------o
----------------
The Dining Hall
---------------
Setting: A hall with a couple of large round tables, various Khytynni and a
human standing behind a serving table. He wears chef's whites and posesses a
moustache.
Warrior: Mammalsssss! You will feed our young!
Clemett: Sorry, but I can't cook worth a darn...
Xero: Indeed!
Clemett: And here's what we think of you ordering us around!
---- There is a battle.
Cook: Well met, warriors!
Clemett: Torggo's rusted stamens! Who are you?
Cook: I'm the chef.
Xero: Easy, Clemett... I think this one comes in peace.
Clemett: All right. No sudden moves!
Cook: Thank you for liberating me from those brutes.
I've been stuck in here for centuries!
Harv-5: You are not free yet.
Cook: Well, that's true. Still...for the moment... I have some REAL
customers!
Xero: Customers...?
Cook: I don't suppose you are hungry?
Clemett: I could eat road kill! Bring it on!
Harv-5: You eat...flesh?
Clemett: You better believe it! Do it up, cook!
Cook: Step into my parlour, gentlemen.
---- They all move forwards to the serving table.
Cook: Behold my domain! This kitchen is tops. It features a
self-stocking larder.
I can prepare any delight imaginable...
Clemett: This gets better and better, eh?
Cook: Imagine being stuck here for centuries with those Khytynni...
And all they wanted to eat was blood-enriched MUSH!
Xero: Mush?! As in oatmeal...?
CCook: Precisely. It's all they can eat, apparently.
I tried other things...and nearly lost my head for it.
Finally I gave up. What a dark day that was!
Clemett: Well, those days are over. Cook us up a feast!
Cook: It would be my pleasure!
---- Screen goes black and there are two messages...
o----------------------o
| Party gorges itself. |
o----------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| Party restored through feasting. |
o----------------------------------o
---- Clemett and Xero in turn break wind loudly and make a comment.
Clemett: Ugh... Can't believe I ate the whole...thing...
Xero: Me...either.
Clemett: ??? How'd you do that? I mean...you've no...you know!
Xero: I'll never tell.
Harv-5: We must forge on. Rose, please.
Clemett: Best be getting some exercise. Too many calories coursing through
my veins...
Xero: Hear, hear...
Harv-5: Exercise... That would be combat?
Clemett: That would be combat. Let's ,move out!
Cook: I put some things together for you. Potions...curatives... Things
I picked up over time.
o-----------------o
| Party received: |
| Fyrn Salve |
| Apple |
| Beef Cake |
o-----------------o
Clemett: We're in your debt, Chef.
Cook: My pleasure, folks. Now...I do believe you have other things to
tend to.
Harv-5: Farewell!
Cook: Good luck...and thanks! I can rest in peace now.
---- The cook disappears in a puff of smoke.
Clemett: A ghost... We just ate a meal prepared by a ghost.
Xero: But, oh, what a meal!
Harv-5: This place is filled with wonders.
Clemett: To be sure. Glad we could do that ghost a favour.
Xero: Indeed. Let's move out, lads.
-------------------------
Room with Hanging Ladders
-------------------------
Setting : A room with hanging walkways and something on the ground.
Clemett: Check this out, eh!
Harv-5: Lit looks like debris. Mechanical wreckage.
Clemett: Yeah...but it's good wreckage! Sure it's old, crude...but...
Whoever built it had a great idea!
Xero: Uhndrashi craftsmen were the best on Arkose...
Clemett: Yes, until we arrived...
Xro: Harumph!
Clemett: Hmm... I'll just put this here...adjust that...
Excellent! This so-called 'junk' just gave me a new Multicannon
round!
o------------------------------------------o
| Clemett earns VPR-KSS Multicannon Round. |
o----------------------------------------- o
Harv-5: I've never seen such behaviour from a Gadgeteer.
Clemett: Think of me as a former Gadgeteer.
I've spent much time amongst the Arkosians. Learned the language...
the customs.
But the old skills remain!
Harv=-5: I would hear more of your story when we find safety...
Clemett: I wouldn't mind finding out how you, a robot, became self-aware,
either.
Xero: Gentlemen...we should be moving.
-------------
The Barracks
-------------
Setting: A large room with various stone tables and three Warriors.
Warrior: Intrudersssss! Battle tactic Beta! Engage!
---- The three warriors collect together in front of the party.
Clemett: A fight! I love it!
Xero: We just got OUT of a fight!
Clemett: I know! Isn't this great?
Harv-5: ...No...
Clemett: Hey! You! Bug-Boys!
They must have used your cocoons as punching bags! I;ve never seen
such ugly faces!
Warroir: Insssssolent mamma!! I will feasssst on your entrailsssss!
Clemett: That's the spirit, fugly! Get'em while they're hot!
Harv-5: You are inciting a frenzy...
Clemett: Who cares? Let's kick some carapace!
---- There is a battle with the three warriors.
-------------------------------
The Laboratory of the Dark Arts
-------------------------------
Setting: a hidden room to the right of the door to the Moon Room. There are
tables with various implements on them and a pots.
Wizard: Brothersssss! The warm-bloodsss and their machine dare to violate
our lair!
Xero: What are you miscreants up to?
Wizard: Ignorant head of a primate... We are masssssters of the Mysssstic
Artsssss!
Xero: Ho, ho! Not with this crude material you're not!
You're more like yokels of the mystic arts...
Harv-5: You are agitating them...
Wizard: Ssssstrip the flesssssh from that yapping sssssskull! I grow
weary of itsssss prattle!
---- There is a battle with the three wizards.
---- Check the pots and tables in the room.
o---------------------o
| Metal parts from an |
| unknown source> |
o---------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| Some kind of mixing machine |
o-----------------------------o
---------
Cage Room
---------
Setting: a hidden room to the left of the Moon Door. There are a couple of
cages with various bones.
---- Check the cages and debris in the room.
o-----------------------------o
| Strange mixture of animal |
| and human remains. |
o-----------------------------o
o-------------------------o
| Whatever was kept |
| in here is long dead... |
o-------------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| Bags of bones, nails, teeth |
| and other remains. Mostly |
| animal in nature. |
o-----------------------------o
------------------------
The Grand One's Domicile
------------------------
Setting: A large room with a grand red bed and chair. There are two warriors
standing in front of some steps, and another larger one standing at the foot of
the bed.
Clemett By the great Stamen of Tairmuk! Look at that monster!
Xero: The Khytynni leader... The alpha male. This could be rough...
Harv-5: The enemy doesn't seem to be aware of us...
Grand
Khytynni: I bid you welcome. Please put away your weapons. We mean you no
harm.
Clemett: You were saying?
Xero: You'll forgive us if we're slow to trust you. Your troops have
taught us otherwise
Grand
Khytynni: People from without... Our struggles have been a grave
misunderstanding.
Our quests...our goals... They are the one and the same. Two faces
of a single coin...
Xero: Explain!
Grand
Khytynni: You seek the Orb, correct?
Clemett: That's right.
Grand
Khytynni: It is our fate to guard this tomb, and has been for centuries.
Cursed with immortality, we must live forever here, under the
sands...
Waiting for invaders from above.
Needless to say, we have grown weary of our task.
Harv-5: You desire to be released from bondage.
Grand
Khytynni: Yes.
We knew there would be a time when someone would make it this
far... When someone worthy of the Orb would arrive.
We have prayed for this... Prayed for release.
You are the first to have avoided the obstacles. The first to
prove worthy.
It is your destiny to obtain the Orb.
Xero: And once we do, your obligation will have been met, yes?
Grand
Khytynni: Yes. We will be free...to live and die...on our own terms.
Clemett: I get it! You actually WANT us to take the Orb!
So you can climb out of this hole and have a real life!
Xero: (ahem) Well I think we're all on the same page now!
Grand
Khytynni: As a sign of good faith, I shall order my warriors to cease
hostilities.
You may prepare for your final challeneges in peace.
Clemett: Then let's get on with it.
Harv-5: Be advised, Khytynni. We will not tolerate treachery.
Grand
Khytynni: Nor shall we.
Attack any of my warriors and you will suffer dire consequences...
Xero: Understood.
Grand
Khytynni: So be it. Return to my chambers when you are ready to enter the
Vault.
Xero: We will. Soon, this will be over...for all of us!
Clemett: Let's go, guys.
---- They return to the corridor.
Clemett: Do you two trust that big roach?
Xero: Only as far as I could throw him!
Clemett: That's not far since you have no arms.
Harv-5: Despite his dubious credibility, we should abide by our agreement.
Xero: But of course! We are gentlemen, after all.
Clemett: Let them throw the first punch...claw...whatever. In the
meantime...
Xero: We should rest up. See if we can find any useful equipment in here.
Harv-5: Agreed.
Whatever we tackle next, be it the Vault or the Khytynni, we must be
ready.
---- They form a party once again.
-----------------------
Return to The Grand One
-----------------------
Setting: In the Grand One's room they are spoken to as soon as they return.
Grand
Khytynni: Ah! The chosen ones return.
Are you ready to enter the Vault?
Yes
No.
#Select No
Grand
Khytynni: I see. Please return when you are ready.
---- Check the pots in the room.
o--------------------------o
| Ashes of Arkosian grave |
| robbers caught trying to |
| enter the Ziggurat. |
o------------------------- o
##Select Yes
Grand
Khytynni: So be it! Follow the stairs to reach the Vault of Uhndrash.
---- The two Warriors blocking the stairs move aside.
Grand
Khytynni: I wish you success!
---- The party moves forwards to the bottom of the stairs.
Harv-5: We wish you freedom.
---- They move and stand facing up the stairs.
Clemett: Well, boys, steel yourselves...
Xero: Be at ease...
Clear your mind...
Open your heart...
Harv-5: I can do neither. I stand ready. Let us advance.
---- Clemett turns around to speak to the Grand One.
Clemett: See you when we get back, Sir Roach!
Grand
Khytynni: I do not know this Sir Roach. You must tell me about him when
next we meet
Clemett: Count on it.
---- They form a group again and walk up the stairs into the vault.
-----------------------------
Chatting to Khytynni Warriors
-----------------------------
Setting: After the Grand One has made the truce, the Warriors are standing
in various parts of the Quad and Hall of Spheres.
Hall of Spheres Guards
---------------------
Guard: When we are free...I ssshall find you, mammalsss.
I will thank you by granting you a ssswift death.
Guard: Sssince I hatched, my life hasss been to ssserve.
What will life as a free one be like?
Quad Guards
-----------
Guard: The ruler is unwissse. Weaklingsss like you are not fit to touch
the Orb.
Guard: I guard this hall for eternity, and then am forced to admit the
likessss of YOU?
Sssurely thisss isss a joke...
Grand One's Guards
----------------
Guard: I've heard you mammalsss put up a good fight.
Too bad I'll never find out if it'sss true or not.
Guard: Every nerve tellssss me to kill you where you ssstand. Honour
demandsss otherwissse.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. The Magic Mouth 0084
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
The Moon Door
-------------
Setting: In between the entrance and another blue opening there is a green
mouth on the wall. This is the Magic Mouth and it will speak.
Magic Mouth:Hey, hey, hey...! Come to supply a little warmth?
Xero: Actually, no...
Magic Mouth:Oh, then you're here to use me to get to the Vault, right?
Xero: Well...that's one way of looking at it.
Magic Mouth:At least you're honest.
Xero: Right...
Magic Mouth:Let's get this over with. Question number one.
Xero: Question...? But I have the key!
Magic Mouth:Sure you do. But I'm the lock, honey. And I say you need to
answer
three questions
Xero: Oh, all right...
Magic Mouth:That's what I thought.
Questions number one.
When did the first Mage War begin?
a. 3800
b. 3775
c. 1492
d. 1968
#Select a wrong answer.
Magic Mouth:Oh, dear me... Someone has a year and a day to study! Bye!
---- Attempt to move forwards.
Magic Mouth:No more questions, honey. So, unless you want a kiss...
Xero: Er...no..
Magic Mouth:Oh, pooh. Guess we have nothing left to discuss!
---- Attempt to move forwards and there is no more talk but the way is
blocked.
##Select a.
Magic Mouth:Ooh! Brawn and brains! That's correct!
Xero: Come on...let's have the next!
Magic Mouth:Humph.
Question number two.
The period of time from 3,380 to 2,000 is known as what?
a. The Haapy Time
b. The Fifth Age
c. The Golden Era
d. The Middle Ages
##Select c.
Magic Mouth: Correct! I am in the company of wisdom!
Harv-5: As long as you are aware of that!
Magic Mouth: Third and fianl question!
What is the former name of Siltheria?
a. Helvetica
b. Golgotha
c. Lesser Sisson
d. Ylminia
##Select d
Magic Mouth: Ooooh. That's correct!
One for my honey,
Two for my uncle Joe,
Three to get steady,
And four to GO!
---- If all three questions are answered correctly they go into the
Moon Vault and pick up some items.
------------
The Sun Door
------------
Setting: In between the entrance and another sun opening there is a yellow
mouth on the wall. This is the Magic Mouth and it will speak.
Magic Mouth:You're looking marvellous!
Clemett: Uh...thank you...
Magic Mouth:I have been alone too long...
Clemett: Yes, yes I can see that... not much action in here, I suppose...?
Magic Mouth:None. How are things at court? Is the Regent still up to his old
tricks?
Clemett: Court...Regent? Uh...they're fine...no problems at all...
Look, we're in a hurry, and...
Magic Mouth:...tut, tut...always rushing here and there...
"Mouth, I need this, Mouth I need that...
I bet you wouldn't even scratch my tongue is I asked you!
Clemett: Are you...asking...?
Magic Mouth:Oh, never mind.
I suppose you'll be wanting your three questions?
Clemett: Three questions...?!
Magic Mouth:Of course. That's the way it works.
"Know the lore, Enter the door!"
Clemett: Poor poetry, but proceed.
Magic Mouth:Question One:
What is the name of the continent that was swallowed by the sea?
a. Yoderland
b. Mazurekia
c. Airumel
d. Mooj
#Select c.
Maigic Mouth:That is correct
Clemett: Guess reading that book wasn't such a bad idea.
##Select any other answer.
Magic Mouth:Sorry. Study the lore. You can try again in a year and a day.
Magic Mouth:Question two.
What was the name of the first Mage-Queen?
a. Priscilla
b. Annabella
c. Ethel
d. Tulia
#Select d.
Magic Mouth:Right you are...a fine young woman, Queen Tulia.
Clemett: Phew. Two down, one to go.
##Select a wrong answer and the responses are the same as before.
Magic Mouth:Third and final question.
Which of the following is NOT a Royal Bloodline of Arkose?
a. Khelest
b. Silvera
c. Silther
d. Dromya
#Select b.
Magic Mouth:You are a master of the lore! The Vault is yours...!
##Select a wrong answer..
Magic Mouth:So close, yet so far...Try again in a year and a day. TTFN!
Clemett: TTFN?!
Magic Mouth:Ta Ta for Now!
---- Try and speak again.
Magic Mouth:Game's over! Nothing more to give.
---- If all three questions are answered correctly they go into the Sun
Vault and pick up some items.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
v. Hall of Choices 0085
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
The Vault
---------
Setting: After leaving the Grand Khytynni's domicile the group are in an area
called the Vault. In fact this comprises linked circles which form pathways.
Clemett: Air smells funny down here... Musty and spent.
Xero: This place is centuries old. It was completed well before I was
born.
Harv-5: Do you have any specifics? Any data will be of use to us.
Xero: Nothing concrete, I'm afraid. Not even Magewarriors were privy to
the Vault's secrets.
Only the King and his most-trusted advisors knew what was placed
within.
Clemett: Let's hope that time has worn out any traps left here.
Harv-5: Unlikely, judging from the sturdiness of this structure.
Clemett: Thanks Harv-5, I feel better now.
Xero: Enough,,,enough... Let's just assume we're in grave danger and move
along...
Harv-5: As you wish.
---- The group reforms as one again.
---- They fall into a room after some walking.
Clemett: Whoever designed this place was deranged.
Xero: Indeed. The Imperial Engineers were known for their cruel sense of
humour
Harv-5: Fortunately for us, they weren't terribly efficient.
Xero: How's that, old man?
Harv-5: If this design was effective, we'd all be impaled on spikes.
Clemett: Now there's a jolly thought.
Someone must've set your behaviour switch on 'Morbid'...
Harv-5: As opposed to...what? 'Vapid'? 'Bohemian'?
Xero: Now, lads... There'll be time for this little spat later.
---- The reform as one group.
---- Check the spikes.
o-------------------------o
| Mineral spike |
| Razor sharp. |
| Do not play on or near. |
o-------------------------o
---------------
Hall of Choices
---------------
Setting: This is a place with one path and three openings, only one of which is
currently accessible. They are standing next to a lever.
Clemett: Take a look at that! Magnificent!
Xero: It looks like a lever.
Clemett: Yeah, but OH, what a lever!
It's part of a system that moves that platform out there!
Harv-5: But it is just a lever. It is crude.
Clemett: Think! This seems old school to us, but when this place was made...
Harv-5: ...such technology was ahead of its time. I understand.
Xero: A lever is a lever, is a lever...
Clemett: Head! If it's not magic, it's nothing to you!
Harv-5: Magic and being scratched... These things define Xero. I grieve...
Xero: Keep your grieving to yourself! Bloody marionette!
Let's go. I tire of this!
Clemett: Guess you touched a nerve, Harv-5.
Harv-5: ...
Clemett: Never mind... Let's go.
----------
Moon Vault
----------
Setting: A treasure vault with large olden chests and pots, and a beautiful
carpet and many other valuable artefacts There is no discussion in here but
some of the items have detailed descriptions.
o------------------------------o
| Votive golden hurling |
| weapons and sacks of |
| kii nut shells. In honour |
| of the goddess of war, |
| who hurled such objects |
| from the skies while chewing |
| on...kii nuts! |
o------------------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| Empty ale barrel. |
| The ancient Siltherians |
| believed ale was sacred, |
| and honoured the God of |
| Ale, which we call 'yeast.' |
o-----------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Sacks of kii nut shells. |
| Offerings to the gods... |
o--------------------------o
---------
Sun Vault
---------
Setting: A treasure vault with large olden chests and l pot. There is a sun
symbol, on the wall, and a couple of large curved swords. As before, there is
no discussion.
o---------------------------o
| Fine Siltherian forged |
| and tempered 'slavicals,' |
| the choice of champions. |
o---------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Ancient bags of incense. |
| Once used as money or |
| for barter. |
o--------------------------o
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vi. Orb Vault 0086
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------
A Sacred Chamber
----------------
Setting: A golden room with a gold structure holding a large green sparkling
object: the Orb, in the centre. It is flanked by symbols of the sun and moon.
Xero: King's honour!
Clemett: Guh...guh...guh... Floor ...made of gold... Gold! Gold!, I tell
you!
Harv-5: Control yourself. We seek the Orb, not gold.
Clemett: Speak for yourself, keg man. No one's gonna care if I muss up the
decor in here!
Little chunk o' gold missing here and there...no big deal! Right?
---- Something makes them turn to look at the orb again.
Clemett: Ah...right. I withdraw that comment.
We're here for the Orb.
We must focus on the Orb...
---- They change positions so Harv-5 is on the left, Xero in the centre
and Clemett to the right. They al stand facing the Orb.
Xero: It's eerie... beautiful... I've never seen anything like it.
Clemett: It is...most attractive...
---- There is a strange sound and a red winged figure appears in place
of the Orb.
Harv-5: Alert! Alert!
Vault
Guardian: Do not panic, strange ones.
Xero: It...it's real... The Guardian of the Vault...
Always thought it was just a fairytale...
Clemett: It's real, all right. And, if it want's a fight...
Vault
Guardian: All in good time, creature.
First, we would know your purpose here.
Harv-5: We are here for the Orb of the Heavens.
the world is in peril. Victim of a dark crusade.
Vault
Guardian: Continue...
Harv-5: Our allies, the Magi, believe the Orb can help repel the forces of
evil.
Because of that, we have travelled here. We will obtain the Orb, or
die trying.
Vault
Guardian: Perhaps it will not come to that. Still... We are bound...
Bound by honour and blood to defend the Orb against all who would
take it from these hallowed halls.
Clemett: Great Guardian... Is there no other way? Our time runs short...
Vault
Guardian: You of all people should know the weight of a solemn vow...
Xero: Aye...I do
Vault
Guardian: Can you imagine the curse that would be bestowed upon us for
reneging
on that vow?
Xero: I understand all too well.
Clemett: So either we get the Orb and save the world, or that thing wipes us
from existence
Harv-5: It would appear so. Combat is inevitable
Clemett: Can't say as I'm disappointed. I've spent enough time in this old
death-trap.
I'm in the mood to kick some spectral behind!
Harv-5: You're mad. Do you understand that? Completely insane!
Vault
Guardian: Let the final test begin!
Xero: Here is comes! Fight well!
---- They win the battle.
Vault
Guardian: You have fought well.
The blessings of sun and moon are yours.
o--------------------o
| Party is restored. |
o--------------------o
Vault
Guardian: Your spirits are strong, your intentions honourable...
...the Orb is yours.
o-------------------------------------o
| Party earns the Orb of the Heavens! |
o-------------------------------------o
Xero: What of you, Guardian?
Vault
Guardian: We go to our reward at last.
We, who were once High Priest of the Sun...
...and High Priestess of the Moon...
...shall leave this place and ascend, there to find peace...at last.
Xero: A rest well deserved.
Vault
Guardian: Let your hearts be pure, that they may save this place...this
wounded world
Xero: We will, Guardian.
---- The Vault Guardian flies up on red wings, out of sight.
Clemett: That, hands down, was the strangest thing I've ever seen.
Harv-5: Stranger sights await, I am certain.
Xero: I hope they're contented...wherever they are.
---- The group re-form as one again and exit the chamber.
---- They stop just before re-entering the Grand Khytynni's Domicile.
Clemett: Well, here we are
Think we're going to run into trouble up there? With Sir Roach and
his thugs?
Harv-5: Difficult to predict. The Khytynni are enigmatic.
Xero: It is said that they are fierce, but honourable creatures. We have
no need to worry.
Clemett: Hah! Head, you're so gullible.
Xero: Whenever you are ready you may call me Xero.
Clemett: Would you care to put your money where your mouth is...Xer?
Xero: Yes, I would. I wager a gold coin they'll live up to their end of
the bargain.
Clemett: I'll take that bet, Head!
Xero: (sigh)
Clemett: Harv-5:, do you want in on this action?
Harv-5: Negative. I am not a gambler. And you may both be wrong...
Xero: ...? Go on, old man.
Harv-5: For all we know, Darglings could be waiting for us amidst a roomful
of dead Khytynni.
Clemett: Hey, now THERE's an idea!
Xero: Quite right! We'd have a chance to sweep aside more infernal
rubbish!
Harv-5: I am in the company of lunatics.
Clemett: Head... I think Harv-5 is nervous.
Xero: Relax, old man. Clemett and I are just blowing off steam.
Harv-5: Feel free to blow off whatever you like.
Just be ready for anything.
Clemett: Oh worry not, robo. We're always ready!
---- They join up again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vii. Leaving the Ziggurat 0087
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grand Khytynni is abbreviated here as GK.
GK: Well done...
Clemett: All in a day's work, Sir Roach.
Xero: Like I said, the righteous and the true have nothing to fear from
the Vault!
Harv-5: All bravado aside, we're lucky to be alive.
GK: Yesss. What luck. You're all in one piece.
It is now time to turn you into bite-sssized piecesss.
Xero: What?! You treacherous mantis!
Clemett: You owe me a gold piece, Head...
GK: To battle, brothersss! The Orb sssshall be oursss at lassst!
---- Battle.
Xero: It didn't have to be this way. You could have been free...
With honour.
GK: Our hatred ...ssscreamsss to our heartsss louder...than the call of
honour.
It...isss all we hear.
Harv-5: There is an end. Your time here is over.
GK: Yesss...and...(cough) And...so...isss yoursssss...
Clemett: Humph... What's that supposed to mean? We routed you, remember?
GK: H...have you? (cough) Ha..have you r..really...?
---- There a sound of a crash of stone.
Xero: I think we'd better get going, lads.
Clemett: Yeah... Remarkable idea, Head...
GK: Run...(cough) Run...like the...vermin you are. I...will...win...
GK dies.
Harv-5: Haste in in order. this structure is in the early stages of
collapse!
Remain...and there will be death!
---- A red timer shows on screen giving 6 minutes to escape.
--------------------
Outside the Ziggurat
--------------------
Setting: After running away from the collapsing structure they stop to survey
the wreckage.
Xero: Zounds! I daresay I don't want to do THAT again!
Harv-5: A fairly illogical statement, considering the structure has
collapsed.
In truth, no one will be doing that again, barring a major
restoration project.
Clemett: Tch! Spoken like a true robot.
Xero: Quite. Why didn't you Gadgeteer fellows endow your creation with a
sense of humour?
Clemett: Don't ask me. I'm a gunsmith, not a botmaker.
Xero: Ha! Well put, old man!
Clemett: Okay, okay...enough babble.
Now what?!
Xero: Well...Harv-5 and myself have to meet a friend of our atop a nearby
mesa.
Clemett: Oh, yeah? Is she cute?
Xero: Er...actually it's a 'he'...
Clemett: Oh, Gotcha. Heh heh.
Harv-5: Our ally is a Windtraveller.
He will transport us back to Khelestra, where we will deliver the
Orb to the Magi.
Clemett: I see...well. Room for one more?
Xero: I don't see why not.
Clemett: Best news I've heard all day. I'm getting sick of the desert!
Harv-5: We should get moving then. Davin is no doubt wondering if we
still exist.
Xero: Right you are.
---- They form one group again.
------------------
Revisit Nomad Camp
------------------
Old Man: Knew you had it in you all along! I never back a loser!
Haaaaa!
Fatima: We are honoured by your presence, great warriors.
Poobah: Fortune favours you! But there are many more deeds of valour ahead!
Pojim: The spirit of Uhndrash rides with you! I'm jealous!
Huran: Step right up! Always the lowest price, always!
Drop in any time!
Hassan: Your faces say
Hassan, show me your wares! I'm ready to spend money!
===============================================================================
9. UHNDRASHI PLATEAUS 0090
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Second Visit 0091
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: After walking back to the place where they left Davin, they find he is
not there.
Xero: What the deuce?! Where's Davin?
Harv-5: Where is the glider?
Clemett: I take it this wasn't in the plan?
Harv-5: You are correct.
Clemett: Lovely...
Xero: Perhaps...Perhaps he's out for a joyride.
Harv-5: Unlikely. Davin is loyal and dedicated. If he is gone, there is a
good reason.
Clemett: The bloodstains, blast marks, and broken glider bits here look like
reason enough.
Xero: Eh? Oh. Yes. Quite right.
Harv-5: While there are signs of combat, I detect no wreckage. Perhaps he
escaped.
Xero: Right. I suggest we wait a while... See if he returns.
Harv-5: Agreed. But not for long.
Clemett: Right you are! Whatever attacked him may return for us.
Xero: At least that would give us something to do...
Harv-5; Xero. It must be difficult for you.
Xero: "It...?" What ARE you talking about?
Harv-5: You cannot twiddle your thumbs, or lick at a scab, or strum a lute
to kill time.
Clemett: Har har har! Let me know if you need your nose itched, Head!
Xero: Humph!
---- The screen goes black, as time passes...
Xero: Clemett...
Harv-5 old man...
I'm beginning to believe we're on our own.
Harv-5: I concur. It is regrettable, but there is good fortune in this.
Xero: What are you talking about?! We're stranded here! I'd say things
are pretty hopeless!
Clemett: Want me to run a diagnostic on his CPU?
Harv-5: Think, Xero. Stinger and Windleaf both require constant supplies of
food and water.
Clemett: Who...? Who are Stinger and Windleaf?!?
...and what do they have to do with us?
Xero: Point well taken, Harv-5.
These extreme conditions would have been fatal to them.
Clemett: Hope you've enjoyed your "moment..."
Now, what're WE gonnna do?
Xero: Simple, dear boy. We're going on a hike!
Right across these sordid plains to the southern tip of Siltheria.
Clemett: And here I thought you were going to suggest something INSANE!
Did it occur to you that the bulk of Siltheria is under enemy
control?!
Xero: But of course!
Look at it this way...
You can take MABEL out for a little walk in the park!
Clemett: ...
I give up... At least I'm out of that pit...
...and I'll be able to clobber some more beasties before my number
comes up!
Harv-5: You are behaving unlike a Gadgeteer. Are you ill?
Clemett: Listen to you, robot! You're supposed to be fertilising crops...!
Harv-5: I have found a more pressing task. I will help my...friends.
Xero: Break it up, kids. Let's see if we can pull a rabbit out of our
hats... Forward, ho!
---- The party becomes one again.
------------
Earthstalker
------------
Setting: They arrive at a locked green door at the end of the green pathways on
the plateaus, and stop to talk.
Clemett: So, if I'm right, Artelier's just through this ...
---- There is a strange growling noise.
Clemett: What the sludge was THAT?
Xero: I think we're in for a fight, lads.
Harv-5: Whatever it is, it's big and fast. I believe we should be...
Clemett: I believe I'm going to fill whatever it is full of gomi and chat
about it later!
Xero: Good plan... VERY good plan!
---- Battle.
Harv-5: Remember Gamathel's Tower?
Clemett: Gama-whose what?
Xero: Aye, I remember...
Harv-5: It would seem we've made a corpse to match the one we found there.
Clemett: You guys have seen one of those before?
Xero: More or less. One of these killed a Mage.
Clemett: Yeah? Hmmm...
Get the feeling someone didn't want us to get to Artelier?
Harv-5: Yes. The question is, will more of the same await inside?
Xero: Right. The enemy may control Artelier...
Clemett: Well, being a man of science I hate mysteries and conundrums.
Xero: Meaning...?
Clemett: Meaning let's get to the bottom of this!
Xero: I agree! Let's be on the offensive for a change!
Harv-5: It is our only option.
Charge.
---- The party forms as one again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Artelier 0092
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The party goes through the green door to find themselves in a strange
cave like place with purple light and a net seeming to go up one wall.
Xero: Artelier... I can almost hear the ghosts...
Clemett: Keep your eyes peeled, boys. This place could be crawling with
monsters.
Xero: Harv-5? Do you hear anything?
Harv-5: Negative. I believe we are alone
Clemett: Good. Okay...here's the plan. The library's up there...
Xero: You've been here?
Clemett: Yep. Many a time.
I got the low-down on the Ziggurat here.
Xero: Really?!
Clemett: Yeah, really. Can we go now?
Xero: Certainly.
Clemett: This place is too quiet...and too deserted. There's usually sages
and loremen all over the place.
Harv-5: Right. Let's search the upper level.
---- The party re-groups. They approach the netting and climb up.
-------------
The Book Room
-------------
Setting: A small room full of bookshelves and a man and woman both dressed in
white.
Loreman: Clemett! Is it really you, man?
Clemett: It's me, Loreman. These are my friends. What's going on here?
Where is everyone?
Loreman: I'm...I'm afraid I have dire news.
This place has been attacked...
Clemett: What?! Who'd attack you guys?
Lorewoman: A vile thing that called itself Mannheim.
Loremaid: It tore through our guards... Killed anyone who stood in its way.
Only we survived...
Loreman: And only because it needed us to do its research for him. Accursed
wretch!
Xero: What was Mannheim looking for?
Loreman: ... I...I'm not sure I should tell...
Clemett: Loreman! These guys work for the Magi! I think you can trust 'em!
Loreman: Very well. He was looking for the Tome of Natragor.
Xero: I see.
Loremaid: We tired to tell him that we don't have it... We haven't a copy of
that tome since the Third Age!
But he wouldn't listen...
Loreman: Eventually he realised we were being truthful.
He was about to kill us, then he left.
Muttered something about 'other business' and how we weren't worth
the energy it'd take to blow us to hell.
Xero: This bodes not well.
Clemett: Well, I don't know this 'Mannheim' from Keerg, but anyone who screws
with my friends is in for a world of hurt!
Harv-5: We can only hope.
Xero: Thank you for the information, Loreman.
Loreman: Heh heh...well, giving information is my business.
Loremaid: Feel free to use our library. If there's anything we can do...
Clemett: We'll give a shout, honey. Why don't you two relax for a bit?
You've earned that, at least.
Loremaid: Thanks... But I doubt I'll ever sleep well again.
---- Speak to them both again.
Loreman: So Clemett... How did your expedition to the Ziggurat go?
Clemett: Horrible. Would've been fatal if it weren't for these two.
Loreman: Well, there's always tomorrow
Clemett: Yeah...
Loreman: I must say, though... You do make the most unique friends!
A Magewarrior and a robot! how interesting! And you say you work
for the Magi?
Harv-5: That is correct.
Loreman: Normally I'd riddle you with questions, but...
I think the less I know the better... For all our sakes!
Xero: I agree wholeheartedly, sir. No offence.
Loreman: None taken. Say hello to old Helios for me, won't you?
Xero: But of course.
Loreman: That old dog still has my copy of 'Alchemy for Muttonheads'! Tell
him the fine's at 1000 gold now!
Xero: Certainly!
Loremaid: Oh, Clemett! I was so worried about you!
Clemett: That's nice of you to say...
Loremaid: I'm glad you made it back...
...to me...
Clemett: Er...yeah...right. Heh heh heh.
Xero: (ahem) if you'd like some time alone...?
Clemett: No, no...heh heh. That's quite okay.
Loremaid: I know you guys have lots of responsibility...
But if you get some time...
Clemett: Gotcha. I'll keep that in mind.
Loremaid: (giggle) See you...soon I hope!
Pointman: Harv-5 or Xero.
Loremaid: We're at your service here.
Loreman: Stay sharp out there!
===============================================================================
10. DOBIETOWN 0100
===============================================================================
South of the town are two tumbling stick figures
o-----------------------o
| Petroglyphs having |
| something to do with |
| the old legend, "The |
| Fall of the Feathered |
| Ones" |
o-----------------------o
To the south east is a long red snake.
o------------------------o
| Beware of sand snakes! |
o------------------------o
Due east to Dobietown is a large orange sun.
o--------------------------o
| Our friend Mag, the sun. |
o--------------------------o
Northeast of New Gulbrath is a small glyph of two star shapes near the sea.
o------------------------------o
| "Tandem," a constellation |
| with 2 bright stars which |
| symbolise a happy marriage." |
o------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Main Square
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A Mexican/western type town with a central group of red stones and
flat roofed buildings. There is no-one around.
Xero: It's like a ghost town...
Clemett: I'd heard this place was having bandit troubles, but...
Harv-5: This has the stench of Hokum. His hand has touched this place.
Left its foul mark...
Clemett: You're probably right.
Xero: Let's talk with the locals. See what's happened here... Maybe we
can help.
Clemett: I know some people here. Over in the Coyote Tavern...
Harv-5: This data does not surprise me. I suspect you know many people in
low places.
Clemett: When I want your opinion, I'll program it into you.
Xero: Er...right. The Tavern. Sounds like a good place to start...
---- They join up as a group and automatically go into the tavern.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coyote Tavern
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A dark tavern with Antonio behind the bar and some other people
sitting at tables with large tankards in front of them. Antonio is dressed in
a colourful poncho and has a blue lower face, indicating an unshaved beard...
Clemett: Watch yourselves, boys. This joint can get a little rowdy.
Antonio: Sorry, gents. Can't serve you today.
Clemett: What? Antonio, Antonio... It's me! Clemett!
Antonio: Can't help you, son. New law in effect. This is a locals only
joint now.
Clemett: Locals...? That's a load of fertiliser and you know it!
Our gold's just as shiny as theirs!
---- They all turn to the right as someone else speaks.
Thug: Gold...? Gold you say?
Clemett: Yeah...gold. You know... The currency of the land. Shiny metal
stuff.
Xero: What of it?
Thug: I think you're gonna give it over. All of it. Now.
Clemett: That, and a headache, is what you get for doing your own thinking,
smelly.
Thug: You got a big mouth, Gadgeteer. Think I'm gonna shut it for ya...
permanent like.
Clemett: Bring it on, greasy!
Antonio: Hey, hey, hey! Take that stuff outside!
Don't go bangin' up my place now!
---- Clemett turns to answer Antonio.
Clemett: Sure thing, Antonio.
---- He turns back to speak to the thug.
Clemett: See you outside, genius.
Bring your little friends if you want.
Thug: Grrr... Let's go teach the freak a lesson, boys!
---- They go outside and fight. After this they are back inside again.
Now all the other four people in the tavern are grouped around the
party.
Clemett: Now then...where were we? Something about locals only...
Right, Antonio?
Antonio: Hey...Clemett... I had to say that...
The Boss, she won't have it nay other way!
Harv-5: Boss?
Xero: She...?! Hmmm...this gets better all the time.
Clemett: Antonio, we're not here to rip up your joint.
So why don't you settle down and tell us what's goin' on?
Antonio: Well...all right.
---- The party moves to stand in front of the car and talk directly to
Antonio.
Antonio: Things aren't like they used to be. The Boss, she rolled into town
a couple weeks ago.
Ginger: Her and all her boys, that is. Never seen a scummier buncha
villains and cutthroats!
Diego: Before we knew it. the sheriff was dead and the deputies had been
run out of town.
The only law here...is the 'Law of the Gang.'
LaDonna: They pay awful well though. those boys. Know how to party, too!
Antonio: Shut your cakehole, LaDonna! That money's blood money, and you
know it
LaDonna: It all spends the same, honey.
Antonio: Er...anyway, that's the story. The town's basically dead...
Clemett: Well, your worries are over, eh. We're here to get things right.
Sir Kent: Do you speak the truth? It is true that you mean to restore order?
---- They turn to see the old white haired man.
Xero: Indeed, sir, we do.
Sir Kent: Then we need to talk. My home is east of here, at the edge of town.
I would aid you against these villains!
---- Sir Kent leaves.
Clemett: What was all that about?
Antonio: Crazy old man... Says he was once a Gogarin... Now I guess he's
just an old Gogarin.
Ginger: He's a sweetheart... He clobbered a bandit the day that bunch
arrived.
Diego: They put him in fail for a spell, then let him loose.
Must've figured he was harmless.
LaDonna: He's been wanting to start some 'freedom revolution' ever since.
Crazy old goof's gonna get hung if he's not careful!
Xero: Hmmm... He might be helpful, lads.
Clemett: Yeah... Thanks for the info, Antonio. We weren't here, right?
Antonio: Never laid eyes on you.
Clemett: Good man.
Antonio: Good luck!
---- Speak to everyone again.
Antonio: Not much left to drink here, boys. Desert grog, and no more.
20 gold a round...
Want I should pour?
Yes
No
#Select No
Antonio: Well, you'll live longer. My business might not though!
##Select Yes.
Party: Whooooosh! That...that's got a kick!
Antonio: We like it strong here, sir.
Diego: You boys... You act like heroes!
---- The party separates again.
Clemett: What makes you say that?
Diego: It's all about 'fighting evil' and 'cleaning up the town' with you,
no?
Xero: You have a point. till, you make our calling sound foolish. Why
is that?
Diego: Far too much work and danger in heroism.
I thought about it, but decided to leave it to others.
Xero: I...see.
Diego: Besides, I'm far too handsome for such foolishness
Clemett: Handsome...? Ha ha ha! You?
Diego: Mock me all you want, but it's well known.
I'm the handsomest man in town!
Clemett: Yeah? We'll settle this. Ladies?
Ginger: Huh?
LaDonna: What you need, sugar?
Clemett: I ask you, honestly... Who's better looking? Him or me?
Ginger: Hmmm...
LaDonna: Oh, my. That's tough one.
Ginger: Let us think about it...
---- The two young woman turn away and start to whisper between
themselves.
Ginger: Bzz bzz...cute...bzz bzz
Armour...bzzz...big...bzz
Those eyes...bzz...wooo!
LaDonna: Right, but....bzz bzz...
boots...bzz bzz...clothes...
Bzz bzz arms...bzz...wooo!
---- They turn around again to face the group.
Ginger: Okay, we've made our decision.
Clemett: Try not to cry in your beer when you lose, okay?
Diego: Ha! It is I who will be the victor!
Ginger: The best looking man in here is...
---- The two women walk forwards and stand facing Harv-5.
Ginger: Him!
Clemett: Harv-5...?
Xero: Ho ho ho ho ho! I...think I... shall die laughing!
LaDonna: Ooooh! Those big dark eyes...wow!
Ginger: And what a stout body! Mmmm!
LaDoona: Any more like you at home, big boy? Tee hee!
Harv-5: Negative. I am the last of my line. One of a kind.
Ginger: You got that right, baby. Ooh la la!
---- They return to the table and stand facing the group again.
Diego: Oh, woe is me. O, agony!
Clemett: I'll never live this down.
Harv-5: I admit confusion.
Still...
My newfound sexiness may prove useful in future encounters with
females.
Clemett: Newfound...? Grrrrr!
---- Clemett turns his back on the two rivals to speak to Xero.
Clemett: I tell you, Head... There's no justice!
Xero: Hee hee hee... Terrible thing, old man. Hoooo...hoo ho ho...
Clemett: Let's get outta here before they drag Sexy here to a preacher...
---- The party re-groups.
---- Speak to them all again.
Diego: The women can joke all they want, but in the end...
I'm the handsomest man of all!
Ginger: I sure hope you guys are good! Those bandits are mean!
LaDonna: I'd invite you boys to party, but it looks like you got business
to tend to.
Gimme a yell when you're done, though!
------
Pablo
------
After leaving the tavern finally, Pablo, a man in a poncho is in the square.
Pablo: Great. More bandits! Can't you tell I'm broke?
Clemett: We're not bandits. We're here to get rid of them.
Pablo: Yeah? I know where they hang out.
Clemett: Where?
Pablo: Hmm. Mind wanders a lot. Some spare change might help...
Give the bum a Gold Piece
Get lost, grubby!
#Select Get lost, grubby!
Pablo: Just what we need. Cheapskate heroes!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna go collapse somewhere. It's
nap time.
---- Pablo sits down.
##Select Give him a Gold Piece/
o-------------------------------o
| Party coughs up a gold piece. |
o-------------------------------o
Pablo: You should check out Casa Del Fuego.
Always a lot of those creeps out there.
Xero: Thanks for the tip.
Pablo: Thanks for the goldie! Mug o' grog, here I come! Woooooo-eee!
---- He dashes into the Tavern. Follow him and he will not be there.
Return outside and he will back in the same place.
---- Both scenarios:
---- Speak to him again, and he will bob up into standing position.
Pablo: Good luck killin' off the bandits! You'll need it...
---- Check the circle of stones in the centre of the village.
(Look closely and there is a lamb or sheep inside...)
o--------------------------o
| The infamous |
| 'Koom-baa-yaa' fire pit. |
o--------------------------o
-------
Antonia
-------
Setting: A clothes hop with lots of very colourful ponchos and the young women
has dark hair and a purple dress.
Antonia: You filthy bandits have robbed me of all I have. There's nothing
left!
Clemett: Hold on! We're not bandits!
Xero: Quite the opposite, good lady.
Antonia: Hmmm... True, you don't look like the bandits.
But lately, I've seen some strange sights.
Harv-5: As have we. These are difficult times for us all.
Clemett: Er...right... But, hey...don't worry about the bandits, lady.
We're about to make 'em wish they'd never been born.
Antonia: I...see. Well, I wish you luck. You're going to need it.
Clemett: Thanks for the vote of confidence, lady... You always this cheerful?
Antonia: Sorry. Hard to be optimistic when you've been robbed blind.
Clemett: Like I said, don't worry! You'll get your stuff back.
Antonia: And when that happens... Stop by and buy something> Okay?
Clemett: ...
You're some piece of work, gal.
We'll do our best, eh.
---- Speak to her again.
Antonia: My brother went into the bar business. 'Immoral,' I said.
'Scoundrel.' I said.
Now the immoral scoundrel has all the business in town. (sigh)
--------------
Sleepy Burrito
--------------
Setting: The entrance to the inn contains a desk and a table and some pots.
Glover is the young woman with a red headscarf who runs the place.
---- Check the pots.
o-------------------o
| Spittoon (men's). |
o-------------------o
o---------------------o
| Spittoon (women's). |
o---------------------o
Glover: Well met, strangers. Nice to see someone other than a bandit
around here.
Clemett: Well, don't get too attached to the bandits, eh.
They're about to be moving on. Permanently, if you get my drift.
Glover: Believe that when I see it. Still...
Xero: Yes...?
Glover: Regarding the bandits... You should know there's a bounty on'em
Clemett: Bounty...? Bounty you say? This gets better and better.
Glover: You heard right. Myself and the other locals are fed up.
We're offering 2000 gold to be rid of those weasels.
Clemett: Better start putting that gold in sacks, sister.
That bounty's about to be collected. Right, boys?
Harv-5: Affirmative. This town will be liberated by our hand.
Glover: I like the way you boys think.
Keep that bounty talk to yourselves, though. Word gets out...
Xero: Our lips are sealed, madam.
Glover: Good. Now then...
Need a room for the night?
100 gold'll get it for you.
Yes.
No.
#Select No
Glover: Suit yourself...and good hunting.
---- Speak to her again.
Glover: Need a room, boys?
100 gold a night.
##Select Yes.
---- The party go inside the room behind the counter.
---- Check the pots.
o----------------o
| Chamber pot: |
| Number 1 only! |
o----------------o
o----------------o
| Chamber pot: |
| Number 2 only! |
o----------------o
#Select No
Glover: Just hanging around, then? Suit yourself...just remember them
bandits are still out there.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hoggan's Trading Post
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: An items shop with swords and various tools on display. A man dressed
in purple with red hair is behind a counter.
Hoogan: G'day, folks. See anything ya fancy?
---- Shows inventory.
Hoggan: Mind ya watch out fer the bandits, folks.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Town Jail
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A room with one barred cell and a couple of Thugs.
Thug: Whadda you mugs want?
Clemett: Oh, not much.
Xero here bet me that the ugliest morons in town hung out here.
Xero: That I did.
Clemett: Looks like you won the bet, Head. Here's a goldie.
Thug: Whaaaa...?! You gettin' wise?
Clemett: Wise? been there, done that. I'm lord of the wise!
Thug: ...
Harv-5: I think your humour is wasted here, Clemett.
Clemett: Right you are, robo. Let's just crack skulls and move on.
Thug: Youse guys is gonna die!
Clemett: That's the spirit!
---- Battle.
Clemett: You know... There's something about this place.
Doesn't look lived in, you know?
Xero: Why, Clemett, my boy! I believe you're onto something here.
Harv-5: For a jail, it seems awfully vacant.
Nature abhors a vacuum.
Clemett: Far be it for us to upset Mother Nature!
Xero: Never disappoint a lady, that's my motto.
Harv-5: I propose that we fill this place properly.
Xero: Smashing idea, old man.
Clemett: Why, it just so happens that there are a number of criminals in
town!
Harv-5: Must be our lucky day. Let's get to work.
Clemett: Let's.
---- The party re-forms.
---- Check out the things in the jail.
o----------------------o
| Fongallo horn chair. |
| Only available in |
| Dobietown. |
o----------------------o
o--------------------o
| Fluorinated water. |
o--------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Clubhoouse
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A large place with a stage and stairs to a second floor. There is a
bar and three other people besides the barman. A pink coated and wide-brimmed
hatted man is playing a guitar on the stage.
Clemett: Hmmm...looks like we found the local clubhouse.
Xero: Indeed. A veritable Home for Wayward Boys.
Miss
Jezebel: Get you boys anything?
Clemett: In a bit, honey. We've got some business to settle first.
Burke: Business, eh? With who?
Clemett: Any dogson who follows the orders of this woman they call the Boss,
that's who!
Thug: Izzat a fact?
Xero: It is.
Wooley: Hey! Take it outside!
Thug: Shaddup, bartender... We fight where we please.
Wooley: I got me a battleaxe that says different, friend/
Miss
Jezebel: Not to mention the taps close if you don't go outside...
Burke: That's from the Boss, isn't it, Jezebel?
Miss
Jezebel: Sure it is, sugar.
Thug: ...
Clemett: So...see you outside, then?
Thug: Dang, straight! I'm gonna cave in yer skull, boy!
Clemett: Sweet talker... Let's go, boys.
---- They all go outside and fight. Then the party re-enter the bar.
Miss
Jezebel: Get all that outta your system, studs?
Clemett: For a while, anyway.
Miss
Jezebel: Humph! Men!
Burke: You boys don't look like Hokumers...so what's your story?
Clemett: Let's just say we're civic-minded citizens, passing through.
Burke: Fair enough. You citizens need any...supplies, come on up to my
office.
---- Burke walks across and up the stairs.
Xero: Wonder what he meant by supplies?
Clemett: I dunno... Don't think he's with this "Boss" though...
Harv-5: It bears investigation, in any case.
---- The party re-forms.
---- Speak to the other people again.
Woolly: Not much to offer. The Tongue's boys done drank us dry.
Dang idiots! Thanks t'them, no caravan will come close. So much
fer restockin'!
Miss
Jezebel: I don't want no trouble. I just work here.
---- Check the tables.
o-------------------------o
| Pokey Pear cactus |
| ade. Consume in small |
| quantities. Belch away |
| from open flames. |
o-------------------------o
---- They go upstairs and into the office.
-----------------------
Burke's Big Bad Weapons
-----------------------
Setting: A large landing with red carpet and another open entrance
This leads to the office which has a desk decorated with weapons, and some pots
and a wanted poster.
Burke: Hey, tough guys. Figured you for weapon lovers.
---- Shows a shop inventory.
Burke: Come back when you got money in your pockets and death on your minds.
---- Check out the things in the room.
o---------------------------o
| Wanted poster for one who |
| was subsequently found |
| (and thrown into jail). |
o---------------------------o
o-----------------o
| Petrified wood. |
o-----------------o
o---------------------o
| Ancient Arkosian |
| pottery. Decorated |
| with images of |
| "the Dark Ones." |
o---------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| Finely balanced throwing |
| knives. For display purposes |
| only. |
o-------------------------------o
o----------------------o
| Fongallo horn chair. |
| Only available in |
| Dobietown. |
o----------------------o
---- Check the pot on the landing table.
o--------------o
| Herb garden. |
o--------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sir Kent's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A small house set amidst huge cacti. Inside there is a room with work
benches a bed and table. As well as Sir Kent there is a serious, thin faced
boy who wears a small straight sided hat.
---- Check a cactus.
o--------------------o
| Pokey Pear cactus |
| fruit edible, but |
| remove tiny spines |
| before consuming. |
o--------------------o
Clemett: Hmmm. Some sort of workshop you have here, old timer.
Griffin: Allow me to correct your error, sire. The workshop is mine.
Clemett: Is that so?
Griffin: Indubitably.
May I add, sir, that it is an honour to make your acquaintance.
Clemett: Hey...thanks a lot, kid. The name's Clemett.
The floating head's Xero, and the robot...
Griffin: Is a Mark 5 harvester Robot! Based off of the Domesto series of
robots!
Clemett: Er---yeah...
Griffin: With a few after-factory refits, I might add.
Harv-5: The hat is a custom option. The gloves and shoes are factory
originals, however.
Griffin: It TALKS?!? This goes WAY beyond the specs!
Quite an achievement, CLemett!
Clemett: Not my doing, squirt. Harv-5 was like this when I met him.
Sir Kent: There'll be time for such talk later, Griffin.
For now, we must speak of serious matters.
Griffin: But, grampa! A SPEAKING harvester robot! That is serious!
Sir Kent: You must forgive my grandson, sirs. He is quite exuberant about
such things.
Clemett: Don't let it worry you, old timer. What's on your mind?
Xero: You said you could help us, back in the bar.
Sir Kent" Indeed. I am Kent, of the Gogarin Order of Knights.
Harv-5: You don't say... Hmm...
Xero: I suspected as much. You have the bearing of a soldier.
Sir Kent: You honour me, sir. In truth, I am little more than a tired
old man.
But enough about me. You should know that the bandits are great
in number.
Griffin: They are led by a sorceress...
Clemett: That'd be this 'boss' we keep hearing about.
Sir Kent: Aye. The "Velvet Tongue" or some such nonsense.
Griffin: She's a real b.i.t.c...
Sir Kent: GRIFFIN! Language!
Griffin: Yessir.
Sir Kent: The sorceress has dealings with strange beings, as well.
Xero: Beings...?
Sir Kent: Aye...beings. Creatures, not truly men.
They are part of a larger force. They spoke of sending aid...
Xero: Grim tidings. if these creatures should reinforce this woman...
Clemett: I see where you're goin', Head. Could make the trip back to
Khelestra real rough, eh?
Harv-5: Our course seems clear. We must strike now, while their numbers
are manageable.
Sir Kent: That would be wise.
Xero: Where is the sorceress?
Eliminating the leader is usually effective when fighting a crude
mob of barbarians
Sir Kent: Difficult to say. She come and goes...leaving orders and moving on.
Griffin: I have seen her near Casa Del Fuego often...with the rest of her
vermin.
Sir Kent: She also visits the Mayor from time to time...but mostly she
maintains a low profile.
Clemett: Rough. Stays near her men... Low profile...gonna make for a hard
target.
Griffin: I suggest you strike her where it hurts the most.
Xero: Her purse?
Griffin: Hardly. Her vanity.
Sir Kent: Indeed. She is extremely vain. Insecure...obsessed with control
and maintaining face.
Xero: Hmm...so you think if we insult her...disrupt her operation...
Clemett: She'll get good and drink and come out to play! I like this plan
already.
Harv-5: Being an irritant and wreaking havoc.
How could you NOT like that plan, Clemett?
Clemett: Hmmm... You know me well, robo.
Xero: It's a little reckless...but it's a plan to fit the times.
Clemett: It's settled then. Ready to make a nuisance of ourselves, guys?
Xero: Always, dear boy.
Sir Kent: Our home is yours. We'll aid you in whatever way we can.
Griffin: Clemett, my workshop's all yours!
Clemett: Thanks, kid. I see some things I could use.
Xero: Our thanks to you both. We shall do our best.
Harv-5: With luck, your liberation is at hand.
---- The party re-forms.
---- Speak to Griffin again.
Griffin: I know it's not a Gadgeteer lab, but...
Clemett: Kid, kid, kid! Don't be hard on yourself! This is quite a spread!
Griffon: R...really?
Clemett: Sure thing.
Don't know too many kids with a Picospanner, or a Kirby Wave
modulator.
Griffin: I like science. My father did too.
Clemett: Where is your pop, anyway.
Griffin: He's dead. Him and Momma. They died when Daddy's horseless
carriage blew up during testing.
It's been me and Grampa ever since.
Clemett: Er...sorry about that.
Griffin: It's okay. I was an infant. I'm over it now.
Clemett: Well, if you don't mind... I can use some of this stuff.
Griffin: Help yourself.
Clemett: Thanks, kid. I'll put it to good use.
---- The party re-groups.
---- Speak to griffin again.
Griffin: Good luck, guys!
---- Check the items in the room.
o-----------------------o
| Western-style chamber |
| pot... |
o-----------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Long-unwashed bedspread, |
| You don't want to touch |
| this. |
o--------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Experiments in progress. |
| Do not touch lab bench. |
| Griffin |
o--------------------------o
Read a book...
o---------------------------o
| 'Elementary soldering and |
| circuit design.' |
o---------------------------o
Clemett: No thanks...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Conklin Manor
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A large house at the western side of the town. Inside the main hall
is huge, with a balcony running all the way around.
Clemett: Can you believe this place?
The rest of the town's about to fall down, and there's a place
like this?
Xero: Some things never change. Great riches in the hands of the few...
Harv-5: Alert. Someone approaches.
---- A man dressed in green arrives.
Kort: More riches for the mayor's coffers?
Xero: I beg your pardon. What did you say?
Kort: Surely you're here to bring the mayor his cut of the week's
activities?
Clemett: You are so wrong, buddy. We're here to shut this operation down!
Kort: Oh, dear. Do-gooders. This won't set well with the mistress.
Or the mayor, for that matter.
Clemett: Boo hoo hoo.
Why don't you get hizzoner himself out there? I've got a bone to
pick with him.
Kort: I certainly will not...
Clemett: Allow me to point out that I have a very BIG gun here, friend...
Kort: ...keep you gentlemen waiting another second.
---- He leaves and goes upstairs and enters a room on the left.
Harv-5: This ought to be interesting. I wonder how many guards he'll
bring back.
Clemett: Wanna make a bet on it?
Harv-5: Your infatuations with gambling is bad enough. Far be it for me
to encourage such behaviour.
Clemett: Harv-5... You are SUCH an old woman sometimes...
---- Kort appears again on the upper balcony.
Kort: Gentlemen. Allow me to present His Honour, the magnificent, most
splendid, dashingly handsome and incredibly cunning...
The one and only...
Mayor Tort Pudgins!
---- The Mayor comes out of the room. He is large, with an unshaven
beard. (At least, the bottom half of his face is blue...)
Mayor
Pudgins: Greetings and salutations, citizens. My manservant tells me you
have matters of import to discuss.
Clemett: Oh, get real buddy!
Kort: But...but...
Clemett: There's NO way this chubbed out, wellstuffed, fruity goofball is
the mayor of Dobietown!
Kort: But...but sir...
Clemett: Now take Pudgy , or whatever his name is, back to the kitchen and
get me the REAL mayor.
Step to it before I get cross!
Kort: Sir! This... This IS the real mayor!
Clemett: ...
You don't say...
Mayor
Oudgins: Are you quite done assaulting my characters, sir?
Clemett: Oh, I've barely started!
What's the story here, porky? Why has Dobietown become Bandit-Town?
Mayor
Pudgins: Simplicity itself, my good man. MONEY> Lots of it. Riches beyond
imagination
Xero: You repellent mongrel.
Harv-5: Your kind has fed off the land and its people for far too long.
Mayor
Pudgins: Yes? What of it? It is the way of things!
And now a question for you. What do you freaks think you're going
to do about it?
Clemett: Buddy, you're about to find out. Just remember, you asked for it...
Mayor
Pudgins: What? You're going to shoot me?
An unarmed man? In his own home? How utterly heroic!
Clemett: Just wait, tubby. When, we're done, you'll wish I'd shot you.
Mayor
Pudgins: Oh, but of course. I'm feeling repentant already.
So great is my regret, that I'll allow you to leave without
calling my allies.
My...powerful allies. Heh heh heh heehhhh.
Clemett: Laugh while you can, fatty. The last one's mine, though. Remember
that.
Mayor
Pudgins: Run along, before I change my mind...
Xero: Come along lads. We'll deal with this...creature soon enough.
---- The party re=forms and appears standing on the steps outside the
mansion.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Velvet Tongue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: In the town square, a woman with a cowboy hat and long brown hair
dressed in jeans and boots.
Velvet
Tongue: So...you're the three heroes I've been hearin' about.
The ones droppin' my boys like flies.
Clemett: The same. If you're smart, you'll give up now.
Xero: I don't normally make a habit of fighting women... But I will if
you force my hand.
Velvet
Tongue: Well, aren't you a pair of roughnecks.
Tell you what, boys. Let's drop all this 'enemy' talk.
Clemett: What're you getting at?
Velvet
Tongue: This is a real profitable operation here. I could use some good
enforcers.
Guys like you could make a killing...in more ways than one.
Xero: Are you mad, woman? We aim to stop you, not join you!
Velvet
Tongue: What about you, short wooden, and handsome?
Clemett: You gotta be kidding me.
Velevt
Tongue: You haven't said a word. You want to join up with me? Hmmmmm...?
Harv-5: Negative. You prey on the weak and defenceless.
You consort with the enemy. You must be stopped.
Velevt
Tongue: Oh, pooh. I'd at least have hoped for one. Hmph.
Clemett: Okay, lady. Talkin' time's over. You coming along peacefully,
or...
Velevt
Tongue: Or what? You three pigs will try to impress me with your toys?
Please.
I didn't get this job by being a helpless wench!
You want a fight? Come and get it!
Clemett: Have it your way, sister. You wanna dance, we'll dance!
---- Battle.
Clemett: Nice dancin', sister... Too bad we danced better.
Velevet
Tongue: Enjoy it...while you can...pig.
Xero: Madam...we must know. Where is the treasure you've taken from
these people?
Harv-5: At least let your last actions have meaning.
Velvet
Tongue: What...? And make it...easy for you? (Cough, cough)
Never...
Harv-5: What good will riches do you in death?
Velvet
Tongue: Heh...heh...okay...
Won't do it ...for you...though.
Clemett: Huh...?
Velvet
Tongue: I'll do it...for future thieves... Someone's got to...keep clowns
like you busy...Ha!...
Sooner or later...someone like me...will come for that money...
A...and someone...like you won't be here to...help... Heh...
Clemett: Well, it's a start... Where is it?
Velvet
Tongue: The...mayor...Mayor's ...house... It's there...there...
---- She collapses and dies.
Harv-5: Thank you. Rest in peace.
Xero: That was a little cold, wasn't it, Harv-5?
Harv-5: She had no remorse. She expected none. I honoured that request.
Clemett: Er...right. Let's go get the treasure before the Mayor scoots off
with it.
---- They automatically arrive back inside the Manor.
Kort: Oh, dear! it's you again.
Please don't shoot me!
Clemett: Don't worry about it. Where's Old Chubby at?
Kort: You...you mean Mayor Pudgins?
Xero: The same. We've a matter to discuss.
---- The Mayor arrives from the dark doorway in the centre of the hall.
Mayor
Pudgins: What's the meaning of all this?
Clemett: In a nutshell?
The Velvet Tongue is gone. All of her gang is too. Law and order's
back in town...
Oh, and this is the best part...
Your number's up, butterball. Time to face the music.
Mayor
Pudgins: You...you can't be serious. This is a jest, yes?
A jolly little jest at the Mayor's expense.
Xero: Hardly, you corpulent vile excuse for a man.
Xero: It's the new way of things.
Mayor
Pudgins: You can't do this! I'm still the Mayor of this town! Get out!
Clemett: Get it straight, lardo. you've been impeached. It's over.
Mayor
Pudgins: Noooooooo!
---- He turns around and flops down flat on the floor.
Kort: Is he... Is he...dead?
---- Clemett goes to him and checks.
Clemett: No, he's still alive. Must've fainted.
Kort: Drat. Well, we can't get everything we wish for, can we?
Xero: Not as often as we lie, no.
Clemett: Well, he's not going anywhere for a while.
Xero: Let's find the treasure. Give the people back what's...
---- The mayor suddenly gets up and runs to the front door.
Mayor
Pudgins: So long, suckers!
Clemett: Oh, for...
---- An old man comes in the front door and blocks the mayor.
Sir Kent: That's far enough, Mayor... Or should I say 'ex-mayor'. I've a
fine cell waiting for you!
Mayor
Pudgins: Noooo! this isn't how it's supposed to end!
Clemett: Wrong again, tubs. go to jail like a man at least!
Sir Kent: Come along, or I'll thrash the daylights out of you!
Mayor
Pudgins: This isn't over... You'll see!
---- Sir Kent and the Mayor leave.
Clemett: Where were we?
Harv-5: Getting the treasure for the villagers.
Clemett: Ah. Right. Let's get to it!
---- The party re-forms. Enter the back room.
Clemett: I wonder if His Fatness ever read any of these books?
Xero: I wonder if the Mayor knew how to read.
Harv-5: Considering the residue of dust on some of these books, I'd say the
answer to both questions is "no".
Clemett: Pathetic.
---- Check the bookcase on the back wall.
o-------------------------o
| What appear to be books |
| are actually leather |
| covers glued onto |
| wall boards. |
o-------------------------o
---- Touch the bookcase opposite the entrance. It opens.
Clemett: Well, well, well! What have we here?
Looks like the Mayor had a little extra set aside!
Some of this stuff is definitely NOT local.. This is from Hokum...
I think it's fair to say this stuff is ours if we want it...
---- Check the right hand crate.
o--------------------------o
| It's 'Grouchy the |
| Grizzly' (TM), a Kii Nee |
| Babies (TM) plush toy. |
o--------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Crate is stuffed full with |
| all manner of Kii Nee |
| Babies (TM) plush toys. |
o----------------------------o
---- Check the left hand crate.
o-------------------------------o
| Crate full of memorabilia |
| from a girl's life, including |
| grade reports and diaries. |
o-------------------------------o
---- They go upstairs.
---- Check the portraits.
o----------------------------o
| Maria Tativa, |
| a.k.a. 'The Velvet Tongue' |
o----------------------------o
o-------------------------o
| 6 feet tall and worth |
| the climb. Handle with |
| extreme care. |
o-------------------------o
o-------------------------o
| D. Conkin, |
| Founder of Dobietown. |
| Assassinated by a rogue |
| tattoo artist. |
o-------------------------o
---- Enter the right hand room.
Clemett: Ugh. Do we have to search this one?
Harv-5: Affirmative.
Clemett: I knew he'd say that. He always says that, Head.
Xero: It's his lot in life, dear boy.
Harv-5: Search more, talk less.
Clemett: Yeah, yeah, yeah...
---- Check the large chest.
o-------------------------o
| There's a book in here! |
| Read it ? |
| Yes |
| No |
o-------------------------o
#Select Yes, and read to the end. (No just results in no comments.)
Xero: What horrible fiction!
---- They enter the first floor left hand room.
Clemett: All right! the booty room!
Xero: A considerable trove of treasure, to be sure.
Harv-5: The villagers will be pleased. Their wealth is secure.
---- Check the right hand crate.
o------------------------------o
| Crates containing bottles of |
| Don Diego Cactus Mana. |
| Rare Private Reserve. |
o------------------------------o
---- They go back downstairs and say a final word to Kort.
Kort: Make yourself at home, my friends.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return to Dobietown
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They are back in the town centre after leaving the Manor and Sir Kent,
Pedro and Antonia are waiting to greet them.
Sir Kent: The battle...
Antonia: Is it over? Did you win?
Xero: Yes to both questions.
Harv-5: The gang has been broken. Their leader is dead. The town is yours
once more.
Clemett: There's a pretty nice pile of loot in the Mayor's place, too...it's
all yours.
Antonia: Three cheers! Three cheers for the heroes of Dobietown!
Antonia: You may not have heard, but there's a bounty on the gang. It's
yours...you earned it.
o---------------------o
| Antonia gives party |
| 2000 gold pieces! |
o---------------------o
Pablo: Don't spend it all in one place!
Antonia: We owe you a lot more than that
Sir Kent: Know that you'll always be welcome here!
Clemett: Well, you know how it goes. ALl in a day's work...
---- Harv-5 turns around and speak to Clemett and Xero.
Havr-5: This money... We shouldn't keep it. These people need to rebuild.
Clemett: What do you think, boys?
Give back the money
Keep the money
#Select Keep the money.
Xero: Rest assured, good people. This money will be used for good.
Harv-5: Our fight for the world will continue, thanks to your help.
Pablo: We'll remember that over a bowl of gruel. Cheapskates1
Antonia: Pablo! Hush your mouth!
These men saved our town! They earned the money...fairly.
Pablo: ...
Whatever. I need a nap.
---- They all leave.
##Select Give it back
o---------------------------o
| 2000 gold returned to the |
| townsfolk. |
o---------------------------o
Sir Kent: We expected such an act. Still, such altruism must be rewarded.
Antonia: Please accept these gifts.
Clemett: You drive a hard bargain, old timer. We'll take 'em!
o-----------------o
| Party received |
| Matador Armour. |
o-----------------o
o----------------------o
| Party has no room |
| for remaining gifts! |
o----------------------o
Xero: Thank you for your kindness
Sir Kent: Oh I see that you are already carrying a full load. Come see me
later when you have room for what we still have to give you.
---- (Or, they receive 2 Matador Armour and one Helm.)
Pablo: ...Whatever. I need a nap.
---- They all walk away.
---- Revisit Kent in the Jail.
Sir Kent: Oh yeah, while you're here, how about that reward we owe you?
o-------------------------------o
| Party received Matador Armour |
| Matador Helm |
o-------------------------------o
Clemett: Thank you for your kindness.
----------------------
Revisit Antonia's Shop
----------------------
NOTE: The dialogue changes slightly if there is no space in the inventory.
Antonia: Hello! You made it! Grand opening sale!
Clemett: Told you we'd get all your stuff back.
Antonia: That you did. You're a prince, you are.
Here. Princes need rewards for good deeds.
o-----------------o
| Party received: |
| Toxnaught Ring |
o-----------------o
Clemett: Wow. Thanks a lot...
(Too bad we don't have any room for that.)
I'd have settled for a kiss...
Antonia: Oh! Well, then...
---- Antonia kisses Clemett.
Clemett: W...w....w...wow.
Antonia: More where that came from, hero.
Clemett: I'll bet...wow.
Antonia: Come visit me when you're done saving the world.
(And when you've made some room, come on back for another little
item...)
Clemett: It's a date.
Xero: You forgot to say 'Wow'.
Clemett: Ouch! Good shot, Head. I'll get you later...
Antonia: So! You guys want to buy anything?
Now that I have stuff to sell, that is.
---- Show's inventory
Antonia: I wouldn't have a shop if it weren't for you guys. Thanks again!
---- Speak to her again.
Antonia: Greetings! Nice to see you.
Xero: Thanks. Glad to be here.
Antonia: That makes two of us, friend. See anything you like?
Come back soon!
---- Check the displays.
o-------------------------o
| The Performance Poncho. |
| One size fits all |
| (or thereabouts). |
| In 3 festive colours. |
o-------------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| Remember, we're the |
| 'Poncho with a punch!' (TM) |
o-----------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| The Super Sombrero System (R) |
o-------------------------------o
o-------------------------o
| The self;adjusting band |
| works to fit almost |
| any head! Try it! |
o-------------------------o
---------------------
Revisit Coyote Tavern
---------------------
Diego: We're free at last! Now I can live without fear.
One as handsome as I should only think of pleasant things!
LaDonna: Whoo-hoooo! Let the party of the era begin!
Ginger: Hurrah, hurrah! We're saved!
Antonio: Ready for a drink? Only 20 gold!
Yes.
No.
#Select No.
Antonio: Well, make yourself at home just the same!
##Select Yes.
Party: Bbbbbblllaat! Cough cough!
Antonio: Little harsh, no?
---------------------
Revisit Hoggan's Shop
---------------------
Hoggan: Oy! Yer just in time for the 'Liberation Day' Sale!
----------------
Revisit the Jail
----------------
Setting: One of the thugs is in the cell, and the ex-mayor, Pudgins. Sir Kent
is now the sheriff!
---- Approach the cell and speak to them both.
Prisoner: Weren't for these bars, I'd tear you in half!
Pudgins: Th...this place s...stinks! S...sh...shadows everywhere! Lemme
out? Please?
---- Speak to Sir Kent.
Clemett: Well, well! Looks like there's a new sheriff in town!
Sir Kent: Well, at least until the next election.
I'm getting a little too old for this.
Xero: Nonsense! You're, what, 65? 70? Try doing this stuff at MY age!
Sir Kent: You have me there, sir. Well put.
Clemett: It looks like the town is good hands now.
Which is good, since we're in a bit of a hurry.
Sir Kent: Understood.
I know all about quests...and the expediency they often demand.
Stop in should you come to these parts again.
Xero: We'll do that. Take care, sir knight!
Sir Kent: And you. Gogarin be with you.
---- Speak to him again.
Sir Kent: Nice to see you. You'll be happy to know that things have been
quiet.
It's been pure bliss.
---------------------
Revisit the Clubhouse
---------------------
Jezebel: Oooh! You married?
Clemett: Er...no...
Jezebel: Wanna be? Tee hee hee!
Woolly: Good work. Now that the Tongue's dead we might get some supplies.
Burke: Well, well. The Heroes of Dobietown.
Keep up the good work.
------------------------
Revisit Sir Kent's Place
------------------------
Setting: Griffin is there alone and the group separates to speak to him.
Griffin: Hey, guys! They made Grampa the sheriff. Think I can be his
deputy?
Xero: Well, that's up to him in the end... But you have our votes.
Clemett: That's for sure. Every sheriff needs a deputy with a good head on
his shoulders.
Griffin: Sweet! I'll start work on my Multipistols at once!
Clemett: Uh, oh... Think I might've made a monster...
Xero: Be at ease. Sir Kent will guide the boy well.
Clemett: Reminds me of myself at that age. Heh heh!
Xero: ...
Then again, maybe we should speak with Sir Kent...
Clemett: Ha ha ha...Come on, Head. Everything's going to be fine.
Griffin: Good luck, guys! Thanks for the help!
---- Speak to him again.
Griffin: I'll be on the lookout for more trouble...just in case!
---------------------
Revisit Conklin Manor
---------------------
Setting: In the hall are two men: Kort and the new mayor, Diego!
Mayor Diego: I'm thinking of changing the town's name...
I believe we'll prosper with "Diegotown" as a name!
===============================================================================
11. NEW GUBRATH 0110
===============================================================================
This is Clemett's home town.
The "pond" in the centre of the town has pistons in the middle of it.
o--------------------------o
| Geothermal piston-driven |
| energy converter. |
o--------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Green Canteen
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Inside the second building on the right is a bar with a man, who,
though dressed in green, very much resembles the plump chef in the Ziggurat.
There are empty bar tables and no-one else is there.
Bevel: Ah, good evenin' to ye, boys.
Clemett: Bevel! You old scoundrel! It's good to see you!
Bevel: Sure, and I don't know ye, boyo.
Clemett: Huh? Bevel, it's me, Clemett! I drink here all the time!
Bevel: Oh, is that so? Well, then ye're no friend of mine!
Anyone who drinks th' demon liquor is a foe to Bevel the Green!
Harv-5: But...you are a bartender, are you not?
Bevel: Not! I am a defender of virtue, a paragon of justice.
No liquor will flow from these taps again. So swears Bevel the
Green! Good day to ye!
---- They re-from to leave.
---- Speak to him again.
Bevel: Be my guest...but don't be askin' for liquor now. I'd hate to
strike ye down.
---- Check you the things in the room: a green suit of armour, the tables
and the bar.
o------------------------o
| Armour once worn by |
| Nealon the Green, |
| keeper of the Olde |
| Order and the One Code.|
o------------------------o
o-----------------o
| Emplty tankards |
o-----------------o
o-------------------------o
| Liquor shelves include: |
| Smoli Waaka |
| Tankuray Jinn |
| Wailies Cream |
| Multiple Malt Scotch |
o-------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Pathway to the Bog
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There is a large gate set in a high wall. It is situated to the left
of the town centre.
Clemett: Oh, grime it all to hell!
Xero: What's the matter?
Clemett: The Bogway's down.
Harv-5: What does that mean, exactly?
Clemett: It means that we're not going to be able to cross the Gubrath Bog.
Xero: Are you serious?
Clemett: As a sword in the gut. There's no way across that swamp other than
the Bogway.
Harv-5: How do we rectify this situation?
Clemett: We need to get into Stan and Murph's place. The master control's
in there.
Someone's got a LOT of explaining to do...
---- Check the gate again.
Clemett: The Bogway's still down. We're stuck here until that changes.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gubrath Pokery
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The building to the left of town centre is a jail and the one cell has
three men inside it.
Clemett: Ho, boy. A bunch of nuts in a cage.
Harv-5: Don't be so sure. Things here aren't what they seem.
Clemett: No, trust me on this one, robo. These jokers are trouble walking!
Xero: You know these villains?
Clemett: Oh, I know 'em all right. You ask me, this cell's too good for 'em!
Harv-5: What do you suggest we do with them, then?
Clemett: Hmm... You know, I've always wanted to tar and feather these
hoodlums...
---- Harv-5 turns to face the cell as one of the inmates speaks.
Hendy: Jey now! You ain't serious, are you Clemett?!
Carroll: T-t-tar an' f-f-f-eather?!? Oh...ugh...nooo...
Levy: All right, funny man... Quit screwin' around and let us out of
here!
Clemett: Hmm...I dunno... You might go on a crime spree or something...
Xero: (sniff sniff) I think that something just happened...
Hendy: Oh, for... Carroll! What'd ya go and do THAT for? Jeez!
Carroll: Ugh! C'mon, Clemett...keepin' us in here wiht him is torture, man!
Carroll: S-sorry...I got scared and ...um...
Clemett: Holy Chitin of Orshkaborsk! What'd you eat, Carroll? Phewwww!
Xero: Well, now what? Should we leave them or...
Clemett: We let 'em go.
Harv-5: ???
But they are criminals...
Clemett: The only crime goin' on here is that smell...
Xero: Indeed...
Clemett: These guys are my friends. I was just rattlin' their cage...so to
speak.
Hendy: Yeah, ha ha ha, Clemett. Very funny. Now let us out before we
pass out!
Clemett: Fine, fine...keep your shorts on. Where's the key?
Levy: Check the desk, knothead.
---- Clemett does that.
o-----------------------------o
| Clemett finds the Cell Key! |
o-----------------------------o
Clemett: Looky here, boys. Freedom in a little brass key.
---- The guys in the cell all turn to face the cell door.
Xero: We should hurry this up... The natives are getting restless.
Clemett: Right.
---- He unlocks the door.
o----------------------------o
| The cell door is unlocked! |
o----------------------------o
Clemett: There you go, eh. Don't say I never did nothing for you...
Hendy: Let's get the hell out of here!
Levy: Thanks, buddy... We're outta here!
Carroll: Thanks, Clemett...mister Head...mister Robot...bye!
---- They all leave the jail.
Clemett: Now who in the world would put THOSE guys in the clink!?!
They're harmless!
Xero: Mostly harmless. My nose is suffering.
Harv-5: We should move on. This mystery can be solved later.
Clemett: Right...
---- The party joins together again.
---- Check the desk.
o---------------------------------o
| Blotter has one repetitive |
| sentence scribbled all over it, |
| "All work and no play makes |
| Jack a dull boy, etc., etc.!" |
o---------------------------------o
---- Check the fire.
o---------------------------------o
| Due to the advent of geothermal |
| heat, this fireplace isn't used |
| very often. |
o---------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gubrath Mercantile
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A counter in one corner and various barrels and boxes and stairs.
There is a large green picture on one wall and the shopkeeper is dressed in
green and called Flamme.
Flamme: Welcome to Gubrath Mercantile! Can I help ya?
Clemett: Hey, Flamme. Can you tell me what's goin' on?
Flamme: What's goin' on?! The Grand-Zinger of Sales, that's what's goin'
on!
Xero: Oh, no.
Flamme: Custom-made Monkey Trousers! Direct from Milham Monkeywear! You
won't believe these prices!
Clemett: Yep. He's gone.
Flamme: Direct from Dantyr, we've got a Pappy Kipp 4-in-1 Fegglenut Cracker!
It's the last one in the store! A bargain at any price...here for
only 10 million wooden nickels!
Clemett: 10 million wooden nickels?!?
Flamme: Oh, I get it. You think I'm marking up the prices, don'tcha?
Clemett: I think you're a ding-dong, that's what I think!
Flamme: Insulting my integrity, eh shorty?
Xero: Now see here... Let's settle down...
Flamme: We shall meet on the field of honour! A duel to the death! Bring
your kitten, you rogue!
Clemett: Kitten?
Harv-5: Don't ask...
Clemett: Why would I want to bring a kitten to a fight?
Flamme: Why...to fight the duel with, of course!
Harv-5: I warned you.
Flamme: True gentlemen duel with kittens. Only rogues use...swords.
Ghastly!
Clemett: (sigh) Let's get outta here.
Flamme: Go! Flee! Coward! Yellowbelly! Hahahahahahaha!
---- The party re-groups.
---- Speak to him again.
Flamme: I wouldn't sell anything to you for all the wooden nickels on
Arkose!
---- They go upstairs.
Upstairs
--------
Setting: A room in the eaves with a bookshelf and a couple of chairs and a
table and a woman in a blue dress.
Mrs.
Flamme: Clemett! O, thank the gods!
Clemett: You're not nutty, are ya?
Mrs.
Flamme: Heavens, no! My poor husband is though...
Clemett: Sorry to hear that.
Mrs.
Flamme: As long as I do what he asks, he treats me well. His requests are
getting odd, though.
I mean, trousers for monkeys?! Who would dress such a creature?
Xero: Who, indeed.
Mrs.
Flamme: It all started the other day. I got home from the workshop, and he
demanded I make him Boffle soup.
He hates Boffle soup!
Clemett: Can't say I blame him. Stuff tastes like roof tar.
Mrs.
Flamme: Well, that was the least of it! Now, he's got me working all the
time.
Only sensible thing he's asked for is this Regulator.
Clemett: Regulator, eh? Hmm...
Mrs.
Flamme: Course, he' s forgot all about that now. Keeps screaming for those
monkey pants...
Clemett: That Regulator could come in handy. Can I have it?
Mrs.
Flamme: Surely! It's no good to me here. Do me a favour, though...
Xero: Name it.
Mrs.
Flamme: Please don't buy anything from my husband! It'll only encourage
him!
Harv-5: We will not patronise his store, madam. You have our word.
Mrs.
Flamme: Thank you. Here's your Regulator.
o----------------------------o
| Party earns the Regulator! |
o----------------------------o
---- The group gathers together again.
---- Speak to her again.
Mrs.
Flamme: I hope my husband didn't bother you too much. He's quite mad, you
know.
---- Check the orange bed.
o----------------------------o
| Gubrath Militia-issue cot. |
| Supports up to 180 GP in |
| weight. |
o----------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hendy's Hand Wroughts
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The first building on the right. Hendy, a thin faced man, will be
here after being released from jail.
Hendy: Hey! Good to see you guys!
Clemett: Hey, Hendy. Keepin' a low profile?
Hendy: You better believe it! I'm not going back to that cell!
Xero: With luck, you won't have to.
Clemett: So, Hendy...What did they put you in there for, anyway?
Handy: I refused to work in the shop. They need me around, so they didn't
kill me.
Guess they figured a few days in the cell would make me shape up.
Clemett: Were they right?
Hendy: Uh...well... I was getting pretty hungry... But I'd have fought 'em!
Xero: That's the spirit, lad!
Hendy: So...you guys take it easy, okay?
---- Speak to him again.
Hendy: Hey guys... It's been pretty quiet lately. Is it safe to go out?
Clemett: Not even close. Stay out of sight.
Hendy: Be careful guys.
---- Check the things.
o----------------o
| Just a forge...|
o----------------o
o------------------------o
| Keg with water.... |
| Used to cool hot metal.|
| Do not drink. |
o------------------------o
o-------------------------------------o
| Assorted club heads, spear tips, |
| darts, flechettes, knives, arrows, |
| axes, swords, bayonets, and napkin |
| rings. For display purposes, only. |
o-------------------------------------o
Revisit after learning about getting the three items for the locked door.
Hendy: Hey guys... it's been pretty quiet lately. Is it safe to go out?
Clemett: Not even close. Stay out of sight.
Say, Hendy... You got a Tri-Burner around? Or a Harmonic Projector?
A pneumatic spanner, maybe?
Hendy: Hmm... My spanner's broke... Don't own a projector... I got a
Dual-Burner, though.
Clemett: That'll do. Give it to me.
Hendy? Give it to you...? What do I look like, a charity?
Clemett: Hendy, if it weren't for me, you'd be fighting cockroaches for
crumbs in that cell...
Hendy: All right, all right... Here! Don't break it!
Clemett: Keerg's Honour. C'mon, boys...
o------------------------------o
| Party earns the Dual-Burner! |
o------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An Ominous Abode
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: All the way to the far right of the town is a large building with
various pipes and storage things outside. They stop at the door.
Clemett: Here we are... Home sweet home.
Harv-5: The abode of Gadgeteers. We should be cautious.
Xero: This was your home, Clemett?
Clemett: Yeah... Me, Stand and Murph built this place.
...
Enough yakkin'. Let's get this over with.
---- Clemett tries to open the door.
o---------------------o
| The door is locked! |
o---------------------o
Clemett: Oh, this figures. Hold on...
---- He tries again.
o---------------------------o
| The door is still locked! |
o---------------------------o
Clemett: I'll be... This is some security system!
Harv-5: Why don't we just blow up the door?
Clemett: Not a good idea. The only reason the defence guns aren't chewing
us up yet is because I'm here.
Direct fire will turn 'em on, no matter who's out here.
Xero: What do you suggest?
Clemett: I can jimmy this open... Gotta find some stuff though.
Hmmm... Gonna need a burner and a projector to use with this
regulator. That oughtta do.
Harv-5: As you say.
Clemett: Right. Let's get outta here before we're seen.
---- The party re-group and leave the area.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carroll's Crashpad
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This is the house set on its own just below the playground. Inside
the small room is dominated by a large cooking range and pipes. Once he has
been released from jail , Carroll, a man, with a worried face, will be here.
Clemett: Hey, Carroll.
Carroll: !!!
Oh, maaaaaan... Now I gotta change my pants. Thanks a heap, guys.
Xero: Sorry about that, old man.
Clemett: You're lucky we aren't the enemy, buddy.
Carroll: Right... I wouldn't be allowed to change pants...
Clemett: Not to mention you'd be on your way back to the hoosegow...or
worse!
Carroll: Oh...yeah. Ow.
Clemett: What did you, of all people, do to get busted?
Carroll: I...er...I...
Clemett: Come on, spit it out... We won't laugh...
Carroll: Okay... I...hit Mister Stanley with my mop. Hard.
Clemett: You're kidding! Really? Wow!
Carroll: He was hurting people... Him and Master Murphy. I...just couldn't
take it anymore.
Clemett: Well, you did good, buddy. I'd have done the same thing!
Carroll: ... You'd have hit them with a mop?!
Clemett: Okay, not EXACTLY the same thing. I'd have used my gun...but you
get the idea.
Carroll: Thanks, Clemett. It means a lot comin' from you.
Clemett: No problem. Now change your pants and stay out of sight, okay?
Carroll: Sure thing!
---- Speak to him again.
Carroll: Ha! You didn't scare me this time! No wet pants for me!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Levy's Place
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This is to the right of the inn. Inside is a room with a large red
bed, a cooking range and Levy, once he has been freed from jail.
Levy: Whoa! You guys scared me there!
Harv-5: Please accept our apologies.
Levy: Sure thing. You know, I've never met a talking robot.
Harv-5: I've never met someone names Levy, either.
Levy: Heh heh heh! First time for everything, huh?
Clemett: All right, you jokers. Take it easy...
Levy: Hey, humour helps lighten a bad situation, y'know?
Xero: Certainly. Clemett's just a little tense.
Levy: Aren't we all! In the last week. I've lost my job, been put in
jail, and nearly starved to death.
Think I know 'tense' real well.
Clemett: Speaking of jail...what'd you do, anyway?
Levy: Get this... My own WIFE put me in there!
Clemett: No!
Levy: Yes! The nutbar said I was a traitor, and they chucked me into
that cell!
Clemett: Well...we're doing our best to get to the bottom of this.
Which reminds me... You work on projectors, right?
Levy: I did until I got fired.
Clemett: Got a spare harmonic laying around?
Levy: It's a little finicky, but yeah...
Clemett: Lemme have it. I've got a plan...
Levy: Say no more. Just leave me out of it!
Clemett: Levy! I'm hurt!
Levy: Last plan of yours I helped on got me suspended for three days.
Clemett: Can I help it that you got caught? Now hand over the projector!
Levy: Yeah, yeah...
o------------------------------------o
| Party earns the Harmonic Projector |
o------------------------------------o
Clemett: Thanks, buddy.
---- Speak to him again.
Levy: You guys must be charmed.
Clemett: It's possible. Staying safe, I see.
Levy: Oh, you know it!
Levy: Hey... Give 'em a hit for me, okay?
---- Check out the bed area.
o------------------------------o
| Levy's bedroom looks unused. |
| Perhaps being jailed by his |
| insane wife has something to |
| do with that. |
o------------------------------o
---- Check the lamp.
o----------------------o
| Gadgy Brand (R) |
| Bioluminescent lamp. |
| Never requires fuel. |
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Inn at New Gubrath
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Situated behind the pond in the centre of the town. Inside there is a
counter in the corner of the room, a garish green and yellow carpet and an
armchair. Belva is the innkeeper, a young woman with fair hair.
Belva: Oh, no... Not again...
Clemett: What's wrong?
Belva: Look...don't stay here! Run while you can, Clemett! And take
these...whatever they are...with you!
Clemett: Ain't gonna happen, hon. These colours don't run, get me?
Belva: Be pigheaded, then. I warned you.
Harv-5: Not all of us are unreasonable, madam. What is the matter?
Belva: Stanley and Murphy, that's what! They've lost their minds.
Xero: We'll do what we can to help.
Belva: Well, if you ask me, a mercy killing would be the best for them.
Clemett: Now, hold on. Stan and Murph are Gadgeteers. I can talk sense
into them. Trust me.
Belva: While you're at it, talk 'em into giving back my man! And all the
rest they've taken!
Harv-5: They have been abducting people?
Belva: Dang right they have! They'd have taken me, except they want me to
fool people into staying at the Inn.
I did it once. They came and took 'em in the night. Horrible...
I decided that, no matter what, I wouldn't do it again! And here
we are!
Clemett: Well, we're tougher than most. And we'll be ready for 'em when
they come.
Belva: I hope so...
---- The party re-groups.
Belva: So...you gonna risk it? I won't charge you...
It'd be unfair, after all. Charging someone t' go to their death...
Stay the night
No, thanks
#Select No thanks...and there is no more dialogue.
##Select Stay the night
---- Inside the room check the picture.
o------------o
| Dog Jogger |
| By, E.Mann |
o------------o
o----------------------o
| Elevated chamber pot |
o----------------------o
---- Speak to Belva again.
Belva: Gluttons for punishment, eh? You daredevils gonna give it another
shot?
Stay the night
Not on your life.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Ominous Abode Again
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Back at the Ominous Abode with the three items for the door.
Clemett: Okay, here goes.
---- Clemett does something to the lock, while the other two watch.
Clemett: I said 'okay, here goes!'
---- There is a long pause while nothing happens.
Clemett: C'mon, baby... You're makin' me look dumb here... Clemett needs a
new pair o' goggles...
---- There is another pause...and the door opens.
Clemett: Whew. I still have the touch!
Harv-5: Third time was the charm.
Xero: We'd better hurry. Someone's bound to notice this!
Clemett: Right!
---- The party reforms at the doorway.
------------------------
Inside The Ominous Abode
------------------------
Setting: Once inside they go down the conveyor belt and into a room where
there is a red car. It has large cart type wheels and an open seat.
Clemett: Ahh... They didn't tear Speedy apart.
Harv-5: Speedy...?
Clemett: My baby!
Xero: Er... To what are you referring to?
Clemett: The horseless carriage there! Are you blind?
---- Harv-5 and Xero turn to look at the "car."
Xero: Ah. A vehicle. Is it quick?
Clemett: Quick?!? This baby does 0 to 40 in under 2 minutes!
She's fast enough for you, old man.
Xero: I see.
Clemett: I plan on entering the Eyre Gran Prix with this here vehicle.
Entering and winning!
Harv-5: Such events will not transpire if we do not...
Clemett: Blah blah blah. Mission mission mission!
Come on! Bye, Speedy!
---- Check the car.
o----------------------o
| Proto-automatic, |
| piston-driven, |
| active matrix, |
| horseless carriage. |
| Nicknamed, 'Speedy.' |
o----------------------o
Setting: After using the transporter they arrive in a large workshop.
---- Check the green bottle on the left.
o---------------------------o
| Caution! |
| Polymer cross-hybridiser |
| Contents unstable until |
| saturated and transfused. |
o---------------------------o
---- Check the picture.
o---------------------------o
| Stellar navigation chart, |
| number 243-375-h. |
| You are...HERE!! |
o---------------------------o
----------
Storehouse
----------
Setting: A large room with red walls and various crates and boxes and what
looks like a picture of a ghost.
---- Check the ghost picture.
o-------------------------o
| The 'Kharj' race on |
| Meltat-6. Intelligent, |
| but too violent to |
| evolve beyond existing |
| level of technology. |
o-------------------------o
---------------
Mission Control
---------------
Setting: After pressing the red button the party will be in a basement room.
The walls are red and there is a large telescope pointing out of a window.
Clemett's two fellow Gadgeteers are waiting. (You cannot see their eyes...)
Stanley: Ah! Clemett!
Murphy: And his little friends, too.
Clemett: Okay, you two. this ends now.
Stanley: Oh, this is delicious. YOU telling US what to do! I love it!
Murphy: Forgetting your place, prole? It is WE who dictate terms, not you!
Clemett: Things change. Get smart. Give up while you're able.
Stanley: Clemett... This is silly. Don't you see what's going on?
Murphy: Hokum's going to win, Clemett. The Magi are running out of time.
Eyre is alone.
Stanley: You talk of being smart. Take your own advice. Join us.
Murphy: We'll reprogram the robot... Take the Magewarrior to Hokum on the
end of a stick... It'll be glorious!
Clemett: Stan... Murph... This is your last chance, guys.
Stand down... I'm askin' you as a friend.
Stanley: Too late for that, whelp.
Murphy: You've been naughty... Time for punishment!
---- Battle.
---- After the battle Clemett paces up and down.
Clemett: I... I just killed two of my oldest friends.
Xero: I offer my deepest sympathies.
Harv-5: They were beyond help. There was no other choice. We did what we
had to.
Clemett: Did we...? Can't help but wonder...
Xero: Clemett... We'll understand if you want to remain here...
To mourn...
Clemett: ...
No. This just got real personal.
You guys are out to settle the score wiht this Hokum?
I'm with you. All the way.
Hokum's a dead man. That's all. Anyone who says otherwise...
They're dead too. With a quickness. Count on it.
That's all there is to be said.
---- He turns and actions the red switch in the room.
Clemett: This'll put the Bogway up. We're outta here. Let's go.
--- The party joins together again.
---- Check the various things in the room.
o----------------------o
| Some sort of control |
| board. |
o----------------------o
o------------------------o
| Clean-burning, methane |
| stove. |
o------------------------o
o-----------------------o
| X-ray telescope. |
| Use at your own risk. |
o-----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revisiting Everyone
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: After the events with Stanley and Murphy are over, you can go back and
speak to everyone in the town for new responses.
Carroll: Boy, the town sure is a mess. For a janitor, that means job
security!
Levy: Well, thanks to you, the town's safe again...I'm the new super...
Still miss my wife, though...
Belva: Well, hello! Afraid I'm going to have to ask for money this time.
200 gold a night.
Sure.
No thanks
Mrs
Flamme: Hello there. Welcome to Gubrath Mercantile.
It's our grand re-opening!
---- Shows inventory.
Come back soon. These prices won't last!
Flamme: I think our new line of Monkey Pajamas will be a runaway hit!
Hendy: Wow! You guys are pretty stout. Still...you could use some new
gear.
---- Shows inventory.
Thanks for droppin' by.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Gubrath Bog Maze 0112
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The entrance to the bog reveals pathways with protective metal sides,
and the chirp of insects and bubbling of mud.
Clemett: (Sniff...sniff...) Great googly-moogly!
Xero: Is something amiss, Clemett?
Harv-5: My sensors detect high levels of noxious fumes. We must proceed
with caution.
Clemett: Really, bolts-for-brains? Tell me more!
Harv-5: Very well. Atmospheric content would be mostly methane...
Clemett: Blast it, Harv-5! Haven't you picked up on sarcasm yet?
Xero: Bloody hell, here we go again.
Clemett: Look, I'll keep it short and sweet.
We're about to enter the Gubrath Bog. We'll be using the Bogway
so's we don't get swallowed up by the muck.
Xero: Bogway? Who's idea was it to build a path through this stinking
fen?
Clemett: Listen up, ok? It took 23 years to build the Bogway.
The first one sank back into the swamp. So it was built again...
Xero: Sounds like a castle I once visited. A wedding, if I recall...
Clemett: Hey, who's tellin' the story? Anyhow, it was a nightmare. In case
you aren't aware, this ain't no park we're in.
Workers died by the cartloads! Disease, accidents, monsters, you
name it!
Critters would slink up through the muck and nab some poor sap.
Swallowed 'em whole, they did!
Harv-5: There was death.
Clemett: Damn right there was death! But the boys kept on a-buildin'. No
one was about to let no swamp or no swamp creatures stop them.
When it was all said and done, 82 men had bought the farm. But the
Bogway was built, and that's how we aim to cross this foul puddle.
Xero: Egads! Quite the yarn, old man.
Harv-5: The structure seems mechanically sound. However, if we were to add
some cantilevered...
Clemett: I'll tell you where to cant YOUR lever, boy! Don't you dishonour
the memory of the lads who gave their lives to build this for us!
Harv-5: I do not mean to offend. I simply mean to offer some engineering
observations.
Xero: Come now, Clemett. You know Harv-5 meant no dishonour to anyone.
He's just...well...a very efficient chap.
Clemett: Right, right, whatever. Look, these gasses are getting to me.
Let's cross this stinking mess and be done with it.
Agreed?!?
Xero: Agreed.
Harv-5: Affirmative.
---- They reach the exit gate.
Clemett: Blast! The gate is closed.
Guess we need to flip a couple more switches back there.
---- They reach the open exit gate.
Xero: Right! That was bloody awful. It's a wonder the Bogway was ever
finished!
Harv-5: I commend that efforts of those who built it. It is a fine
structure.
Clemett: See, I told ya so. Stick with Clemett and he'll see you safely
through anything!
Harv-5: However, I still believe we could enhance it by...
Clemett: Harv-5, don't start with me!
Xero: Really, you two. Must you always be this way? Bickering and
arguing about this and that.
Clucking like a couple of old hens, nattering like nabobs. Why, I
daresay...
Clemett: Stop it already! You're more irritating than a boil on Keerg's
behind!
Let's just get a-moving! I'll be glad if we never have to cross
this cesspool again in my lifetime!
Harv-5: Affirmative. The bog is a place of death. We should continue.
Xero: Quite right, Harv-5. Well, off we go once more into the breech...
Clemett: (Blah, blah, blah!)
---------------------------
Return to the Magic Academy
---------------------------
Setting: After navigating Gubrath Woods again the party return to the Chunnel
where they are met by Fessen.
Xero: Whew... What a ride.
Clemett: What is this, a wine cellar?
Harv-5: It is a cavern beneath the Magic Academy.
Fessen: Howdy, pardners.
Xero: Oh. It's you.
Fessen: This is a less than enthusiastic reunion!
Havr-5: We are less than delighted to see you.
Fessen: The feeling is mutual, I'm sure.
Now, as to the identity of this Gadgeteer...
Clemett: Take me to your leaders...
Fessen: Eh? It speaks like a native Arkosian!?
Xero: Clemett lived with the "natives" for a long time.
Fessen: I see. Well, in any event, why don't the three of you proceed to
the Guest Chambers.
The Mages will receive you later, when you've freshened up.
Xero: Tell them we're here, please.
Fessen: Don't worry. They already know! They've been watching you.
Be seeing you!
Harv-5: I do not like this place.
---- They group together and are then in the Guest Quarters.
Xero: I wonder how the others are doing...?
---- The screen goes black and changes to Stinger's party.
===============================================================================
12. KARILLON 0120
===============================================================================
-----------------
The Entrance Gate
-----------------
Setting: As soon as they arrive at the gates the guards start to talk.
Alaan: Hey! Look who's back!
Benj: They actually MADE it?!
Alaan: Shut up, idiot! Of course they made it.
Stinger: Hey, guys. How's the guard business?
Alaan: You know...poor pay, long hours...
Benj: And the food's awful!
Alaan: And how about you? Didi you make it to the Academy?
Stinger: Yep.
Benj: Well?!?
Good news or bad?
Windleaf: Good news...but we can't really tell you yet.
Alaan: I see. Well, you better report to the Council, then.
Benj: Right.
Alaan: I think they're in session now. Shouldn't miss them.
Stinger: Thanks.
---- Speak to them both again.
Alaan: Take it easy, guys.
Benj: Know any good remedies for sore feet?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Second Visit 0121
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oldtowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------
The Street People
-----------------
Lilga: Had me a man once. Then he went off and died.
Haven't noticed much change since.
Namm: Greetings citizens. How fares the world?
Stinger: Not so good, I'm afraid.
Namm: Well, great! Nothing's changed, then! I hate change!
-------------------
Chambermaid's House
-------------------
Hortense: Oh...hello there!
Stinger: Hi.
Zed: Where's the funny lookin' guy?
Ned: Yeah! The robot!
Windleaf: He's away on a mission.
Zed: They probably killed him.
Yeah! Used him for firewood!
Hortense: Boys! Behave yourself this instant!
Windleaf: They're okay, really.
Stinger: Imps will be imps.
Windleaf: Stinger!
Hortense: Heh heh. That they will!
---- Speak to them all again.
Hortense: Have you heard? The Diva is living in sin with some rascal!
She may be...PREGNANT! Scandalous!!!
Zed: I'm so cool, I don't go to school.
Ned: My brother's an idiot. He skips school.
Dewitt: Now that I can play stickball, life isn't bad.
-------------
Clara's House
-------------
Clara: Hello, hello! Down to a duo, I see.
Stinger: Harv-5 is...on vacation.
Clara: Vacation? Oh, I get it!
He's kicking an addiction, isn't he?
Windleaf: Uh...no, no he isn't...
Clara: I don't know what it is about actors... Everything in excess...
Seeing a young couple like you makes me miss my Damon!
Windleaf: Damon... As in Damon Hokum?
Clara: Yes, dear. He was such a naughty boy!
Stinger: You don't know the half of it...
Clara: I'll try to get out and catch your act one of these days!
Stinger: That'd be nice.
Clara: Knock 'em dead, kids!
---- Speak to her again.
Clara: Keep your chin up! This won't last forever.
----------
Guardhouse
----------
Yuri: Well, well! if it isn't our courier buddies!
Xavier: Nice to see you again...Especially you, Windleaf!
Ziggy: Did I give you permission to talk?
Yuri: Uh, oh...
Xavier: Uh...no sir!
Ziggy: Then may I suggest you... SHUT YOUR PIE HOLE!
You've got a barracks to clean. Hop to it, clown!
Windleaf: Uh, sorry to interrupt you...
Xavier: "Join the guards!" my Dad said... "Get some experience!" said Dad.
"It'll build confidence!"
Ziggy: Shut your cynical mouth! I own you! Now WORK!
Xavier: I should be free in ten years...
Windleaf: I'll come back and talk to you then!
---- Talk to them all again.
Ziggy: The price of freedom is a CLEAN BARRACKS!
Xavier: I use a mop more than I use my sword...
Yuri: I think I'm allergic to dust.
------------
Liam"s House
------------
Liam: Ge away...! Canna man ge shum shleep aroun' heeer?
Stinger: Oh, for Keerg;s sake... Looks like he's tanked. On Serraberry wine,
no less!
(By the way, this is another developer's joke, since Annabella Serra is the Art
Director for the game.)
Windleaf: Let's let him sleep.
Stinger: Do we have any choice?
Liam: Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
-----------
The Temple
----------
Jordan: Welcome, friends. You look like you've had quite a journey.
Stinger: That's an understatement...
Jordan: What is ours is yours! Though of late we've little to share.
Micah: Karillon is starting to feel the effects of the...war...
Jordan: Refugees come and go... Many join the militia...
I fear for the worse...
Windleaf: We have some help now... I think we'll get through this... Just
...keep the faith.
Jordan: Our prayers are with you.
---- Speak to them again.
Jordan: People are growing paranoid. Some are deathly afraid of
flies...moths...even their own shadows!
Micah: May peace be with you, friends.
Lily: ...
Otis: Someone tells me he's coming. He'll feed on our spirits!
YeeeeEEEEE!
Rosco: There's word goin' round. Council's gonna close the doors!
-----------------
Blacksmith's Shop
-----------------
Abran: Hail and well met! It's my fairest apprentice!
Windleaf: Hi, Abran...!
Abran: You're looking stout, Stinger!
Stinger: Thanks, big man.
Abran: So you introduced yourselves to the Magi?! Are they still an odd
lot?
Stinger: Haven't met any odder...
Windleaf: They have a plan, though! A way to end this!
Abran: Humph! They ALWAYS have some kind of cockamamie plan.
Windleaf: Oh?
Abran: Sure! Plans are good, but action... That's where they're lacking!
Stinger: That's why they keep guys like us around!
Abran: Every war needs its soldiers, I suppose...
Windleaf: Um...how has Angus been?
Abran: There's your answer, eh?
He's up to his old tricks now.
Windleaf: That's good. I worried about him.
Abran: Well, he missed you, too.
Stinger: We gotta go, big man.
Abran: Oh? Aren't ya gonna buy anything?
Keep your eyes open out there!
-------------
Blue Door Pub
-------------
Duffy: Oy! Look who it is, boys!
Leif: It's the babe from Enclaan!
Becker: And that dingy kid with the goofy hair!
Stinger: Hey!
McKee: Where's your robot buddy?
Windleaf: He's on an important mission if you must know.
McKee: Doin' what? Mowin' the lawn at the Magic Academy? Haw!
Duffy: Here now! There'll be none of that talk in my joint!
Becker: Huh?! I thought you didn't like that thing!
Duffy: My personal feelin' ain't got nothin' to do with it.
The robot feller did right by our fiar city, an' that's all that
matters.
Stinger: Nice to know someone's wits haven't been dulled by beer...
Leif: I think he insulted us.
Becker: Ah, well. Can't fault him for bein' honest! Har har har!
Donaghue: Humph! Speak fer yerself. Ain't no dullin' goin' on with MY
brains!
Duffy: Riiiiiiiight. Not a dull edge on that brain at all.
---- The party regroups. Speak to them all again.
McKee: Thinkin' about enlisting...before they draft me!
Becker: I heard that the Gadgeteer's have flying machines. What a load of
hooey!
If the gods wanted man to fly, they'd have given him wings!
Donaghue: Humph! Heroes! You wanna see a real man? Look no further!
I'm the local rasslin' champeen! Ain't no one who can beat me!
You buyin' the drinks?
Stinger: Er...no.
Donaghue: Then g'wan! I'm busy!
Leif: We've lost a few guys on the caravan...which means more work! Ugh!
Duffy: What'll it be?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Middletowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
Guildhall
---------
Mason: Look there, Guildsmen! The couriers have returned!
Plumber: Hoo-raaah! I'm gonna snake a clog in your honour!
Jeweler: I'm going to make a limited production serving plate with you as
the central motif.
Carpenter: Our place is your place!
---- Speak to them again.
Mason: The siege walls are coming along nicely.
We'll finish under budget and on time.
Jeweler: Business is great!
Nothing but medals and wedding rings!
Carpenter: Repairs on the Keep are coming along.
Not fast enough for the Militia, though. Humph!
Plumber: Just fixed the Keep's plumbing for the militia.
Wheeeew! What a foul mess!
-------------
Armourmasters
-------------
Pietro: Omigawd! Gus!
Gus: ...
Pietro: Gus.
Gus: Zzzzz...
Pietro: GUS!
Gus: Zzzz.z.z...hnh? Oh! OH!
Pietro: Sleepy head! Tch!
Our heroes... Back from the frontier!
Gus: Don't they look dashing... So rugged and fit!
Pietro: Be still my beating heart!
Gus: Where's the big boy? You know, that robot?
Pietro: Oh, yes. That husky wooden fellow.
Stinger: He's doing some special stuff...
Can't really talk about it, you know?
Gus: Oooh! That sounds so mysterious!
Pietro: What exiting lives you lead!
Windleaf: Constant danger isn't as exciting as you might think.
Pietro: Well, of course it isn't! Why do you think we stay here?
Gus: What he said!
Pietro: Oh, but I digress.
Surely there's something here you'd like?
---- Shows inventory.
Pietro: Come back anytime!
---- Speak to them again.
Pietro: Hello, darlings! See anything you like.
------------------
State Nursing Home
------------------
Old Moon
--------
Stinger: Hey old timer.
Ole Moon: Mighty fine lookin' sidekick ya got thar, pup!
Windleaf: Uh, oh...
Ole Moon: Hullo, honey!
Windleaf: Er...hello there.
Ole Moon: Hmm...She's lookin' a little chubby though...
Windleaf: What?!
Ole Moon: I reckon a good chase will get rid of them love-handles!
Stinger: Now hold on...
Old Moon: Hoody hoo! Gonna git ya!
Stinger: Hey!
Windleaf: Oh, you wonderful, sweet old ...goat!
Stinger: Huh...?! Windleaf!
Windleaf: You...you had me at...hullo...!
YOU HAD ME AT HULLO!!! Come here and kiss me!
Stinger: Oh, no... She's gone shadow mad...
Ole Moon: Huh?! You...yer my girl now?
Windleaf: Oh, yes! Forever and ever!
Ole Moon: Why...that weren't no fun at all.
Ain't no fun without the chase... Sorry, sugar.
Windleaf: Why...whatever do you mean?
Ole Moon: Time for the Moon Dog to move on! I'm breakin' yer heart, I know...
Stinger: This is surreal...
Windleaf: Oh, boo hoo hoo!
Ole Moon: Scat! I hate it when they cry!
---- Windleaf and Stinger walk away from Ole Moon for a private chat.
Stinger: Okay, what's up?
Windleaf: BOO HOO HOO! (Ssh!)
Stinger: What?
Windleaf: BOO HOO HOO! (I'm faking, dummy!)
Stinger: Oh...uh...
It'll be okay, Windleaf! You'll always have me! There, there!
Windleaf: BOO HOO HOO! (Good...now he'll leave me be!)
T-thank you Stinger...sob!
---- They join together again.
---- Speak to him again.
Ole Moon: Got any jewels on your weapon?
Stinger: Er...no.
Ole Moon: Mine's got a dozen! Hah!
George
------
George: Well met, youngsters.
Stinger: Same to you, old Knight.
Windleaf: You'll be happy to know that the maniacs in the Keep have
been...evicted.
George: Happy? Hmm...not really. Relieved? Yes...
I feel no joy at the loss of my brothers, the Knights...
...mad or not.
Stinger: Yeah...well, the Militia plans on repairing the Keep...
They'll use it as a base...
George: You don't say! And here I sit with this rotten old body!
Windleaf: You shouldn't say such thing. Old age come to us all!
George: Oh, dear, you'll understand one day, trust me.
You see, I'm the same inside as I used to be.
However, my body...well... It's gone to seed...
I know it's the way of things...
But old age can be very cruel. I wouldn't expect you to know that
yet!
Stinger: Guess you have a point.
George: Still...old or not... I must heed the call!
Stinger: Good luck, old man. They could use someone with brains and
experience.
George: Ha! And they shall have him!
By Gogarin's blade, I'm planning my escape!
Stinger: Ssh! The nurse might hear.
George: Right you are, lad! I'll see you soon!
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
George: I must be allowed to live and die with honour!
Nurse
-----
Nurse: Thank goodness it's pudding day!
They're a little too restless for my tastes.
Upstairs
--------
Insane
Mage: Every fegglenut holds a kingdom.
Kamaloo! kamala! Bongowongi!
Fear the false saviours.
Within the rotten core, an evil worm eats at the Apple of Paradise!
Senile
Valkyrie: Lord Dobbs, I beseech thee! Let the Bur Tribes go free!
Stinger: Lord Dobbs?! That old fool died years ago!
Windleaf: Wasn't he the one who...you know! (giggle)
Stinger: Yeah...that was him... I'm surprised you heard about that...
Senile
Valkyrie: If you want my love, my lord... Stay thy hand!
Windleaf: I think you have a new friend, Stinger.
Stinger: Yaah! Go away!
Senile
Valkyrie: Very well! But I shall not rest until...
Stinger: Uh... Until what?
Senile
Valkyrie: ...
Zzzzzzzzzzzz..........
Windleaf: I think she needs rest.
Senile
Valkyrie: Zzz...uh? What? Is it pudding day?
Stinger: It must be! Be seeing you!
---- Speak to her again.
Senile
Valkyrie: Only sweet pudding will cool my burning heart!
--------
Grishame
--------
Grishame: Good to see you again! You must have quite a tale to tell.
Stinger: Do we ever!
Grishame: I'm ready to take notes!
Windleaf: Well, we started by heading to the Keep...
---- Black screen.
Stinger: ...so Harv-5 and Xero are off to find the Orb, and we need to make
contract with Eyre...
Grishame: Fascinating! What a story... And it's just the start!
Here's your money for this instalment!
o---------------------o
| 1000 gold received! |
o---------------------o
Grishame: Drop by when you return from this...uh, inner world, won't you?
Stinger: You bet!
---- Speak to him again.
Grishame: Check back with me from time to time!
--------------
Hall of Wisdom
--------------
High Sage: Sacred tomes! It's the couriers!
Geelee: 'Tis a glorious day!
Alif: I shall update the lore at once!
Nepear: I'll write some prose to celebrate this event!
Stinger: Um...you sure all this fuss is necessary?
High Sage: But of course! It's our duty to record the blessed events of
history!
Stinger: Well, that's nice, but all we did is deliver a message.
Geelee: Methinks you are too modest, sir.
Windleaf: We'll do what we can to bring you up to date.
High Sage: Thank you! I look forward to hearing your reports!
Stinger: Speaking of reports... We should probably head to the Council.
Windleaf: Right!
---- Speak to them all again.
High Sage: Remember... True power come from wisdom!
Nepear: You are living timelines! Glory!
Alif: Your travels have made you wiser. I share in this joy!
Geelee: O, to see the world outside the temple!
-------------------
Danjell Art Gallery
-------------------
Danjell: Ah, the famous critics from the hinterlands! Be still my beating
heart.
--------------
Captain Willis
--------------
Willis: Welcome, couriers. I knew I'd see you back here.
Stinger: Thanks, captain.
Willis: How was it out there?
Stinger: Pretty nasty... The valley's loaded with creatures.
Windleaf: We had to make a few detours to reach the Academy.
Willis: I expect a full report. The militia needs as much intelligence as
it can gather.
Stinger: You'll have it, sir.
Willis: Very well.
---- Speak to him again.
Willis: Impressive work at the Keep, by the way.
Stinger: Wasn't anything you wouldn't have done, Captain!
Willis: You got the job done. Be proud of that!
Windleaf: Thank you, sir.
Willis: Keep up the good work. For the honour of the Homelands!
Stinger: Yes, sir.
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Wilis: Proud to serve with you. There may be a commission in it for
you...if you're interested.
---------------------------
Municipal Accounting Office
---------------------------
Dix: Well, well... Back for more of the taxpayers' money, I'll bet?
Stinger: Nice to see you, too, tax gatherer...
Dix: That's City Accountant Dix to you, cretin.
Stinger: Whatever. Look, we're back! You owe us some coin.
Dix: On the contrary. You have yet to present your findings to the
Council.
Stinger: Huh?
Dix: Until you report tot he Council, the city owes you nothing.
Windleaf: He's right, Stinger....
Stinger: Bean counting old weasel!
Dix: Charming as always. Make yourself scarce, before I call for a
guard!
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Dix: Must you pester me so? The Siege Wall Tax is past due! Scat!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hightowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------
Brady's House
--------------
Setting: This house is now open for the first time. There are two red and blue
loungers in a dining room, and in another room behind a curtain is an artist's
studio.
---- Check the cupboard.
o-----------------------------o
| Drafting pencils, erasers, |
| metal straight-edge, paper, |
| and design-related |
| paraphernalia. |
o-----------------------------o
---- Check the chairs.
Stinger: Only a snob would put chairs like these in a room like this!
Brady: I hope Eyre returns soon.
--------------------
The Diva's Residence
--------------------
Setting: This time both the Diva and Karl the kept man are here.
The Diva: At last, I am truly happy. Karl and I are together!
Soon we shall be married... You will attend the wedding, won't you?
Karl: Together with my goddess at last!
It's all like a dream...
----------------
The Whyte's Home
----------------
Humphries: Master Stinger and Miss Windleaf!
Whyte: Look, darling! Look who's come to visit!
Mrs.Whyte: Merry hanababble. Good boys lay blue eggs. Hurrah sirrah!
Whyte: Always the card, dahling! You kill me!
Mrs.Whyte: The gizzard is coming. Whooooo! I'm the foo!
Whyte: You must excuse Mrs. Whyte. She's terribly exhausted!
Stinger: Mr. Whyte... I think you should summon a healer...
Whyte: Healer?! Whatever for...? She needs rest...that's all!
Windleaf: I don't think so... We've seen this before. Too many times...
Whyte: Bah! My sugar pie isn't going to catch the "poor man's madness"
that everyone's talking about!
Stinger: Just make her comfortable. And keep the lights down low...
Whyte: Thank you, but we don't need your help.
Do be running along now!
Windleaf: So long, Mr Whyte... Mrs. Whyte...
---- The party joins together again. Speak to them again.
Humphries: I do believe it's time for me to take a holiday...
Whyte: I trust you'll be discreet about what you've seen.
Mrs.Whyte: Huggoe and Phyrina! King and Queen...
...of the Little People!
---------
City Park
---------
Setting: As soon as they enter, Stinger begins to talk.
Stinger: I still can't get over how...
...oh, never mind...
Windleaf: No, go on. Spit it out!
Stinger: Well, they put a park up here amidst all of these houses and
restaurants and stuff...
Windleaf: Your point being...?
Stinger: Well...it just seems dumb!
Windleaf: That's it?
Stinger: Yeah...
I mean, why didn't they just build Karillon right on the ground or
something?!
Windleaf: This whole region would have been ruined if the builders had done
that!
Stinger: Them's the breaks...
Windleaf: Has anyone ever told you that you're a clod?
Stinger: Hey! Lighten up!
Windleaf: Oh, relax.
We're still friends, okay?
Stinger: Friends...
Don't tell me... Oh please...no...NO!!! Anything but that!!!!
Windleaf: What? What is it?!
Stinger: It's Harv-5, isn't it? You've fallen for him. I'll step aside...
Windleaf: Oh for goodness sakes.
You nearly scared me half to death!
Stinger: Gotcha!
---------------------------
Revisiting the Other People
---------------------------
Street Poet has no new poems.
Tollex: Durn it! This ain't a public toilet for hounds! Nobody respects
my park anymore!
Lydia: My painting is going great! I should be done soon.
Stinger: How soon?
Lydia: Oh, a year or so. That's when the tea leaves said, anyway.
Kisa: Hey, cats. Dig this...word is that the Man might shut down
Hightowne soon.
That's like, beyond dragsville.
---------------
Council Offices
---------------
Setting: This time the door to the Council chambers is open.
Willis: Welcome, Couriers.
Mayor: You're missing a member!
Stinger: Harv-5 is okay. he's with another ally, on a mission for the Magi.
Brady: There's a relief! That Harvester robot os one of a kind!
Be a tragedy to lose it!
Stinger: Uh...yeah!
Anyway, we have a reply from the Magi.
o-----------------------------o
| Stinger gives Magi's Letter |
| to Council. |
o-----------------------------o
Mayor: Bzzz...regreat...bzz...tragedy...Bzz...assist...bzz...aid...
Bzz...our power...bzz...Eyre...
Whyte: Don't hog it, Mayor! What does it say?!
Mayor: Hush your mouth! I'm reading!
Whyte: How dare you "hush" me!
Mayor: Bzz...ring bells...bzz
Time is here...bzz...
Bzz...all together...bzz
Brady: I thought I heard Eyre mentioned there, Mayor.
Mayor: Good news, people. The Magi have agreed to help us!
Whyte: Well, it's about time!
Mayor: They've asked us to pitch in, too.
Brady: Certainly!
Willis: The Militia stands ready, your honour.
Whyte: I suppose the Merchant's Guild will do its part...
High Sage: The Temple of Wisdom is at their disposal, as well.
Mayor: Good, good... There's one other thing...
Whyte: Yes?
Mayor: They want us to summon Eyre.
Brady: Fabulous!
Whyte: Hardly the word I'd choose!
Disastrous is more like it! Can the Gadgeteers be trusted?
Willis: I notice you never asked that when they built your fancy house in
Hightowne.
Whyte: That was different. I was having work done.
There were locals involved. Guildsmen...
Willis: (snort)
As you say, Councilman.
High Sage: If the Magi are willing to put aside past differences and work with
the people of Eyre, how can we refuse them?
Brady: Well put, my friend. I'll begin preparations at once!
Mayor: Time is of the essence. We should ring the bells at once!
Stinger: The bells?
Shouldn't we be calling Eyre? Afterwards we should have plenty of
time for fun.
Willis: No, you don't understand. The Gadgeteers installed a set of
powerful bells in Hightowne...
Mayor: We were instructed to ring them should the need arise.
Whyte: I'd say it's arisen, chap! Bang the gongs and let's get this show
on the road!
Brady: It's not quite that easy...
Stinger: Lead on, I've always wanted to meet a Gadgeteer!
Mayor: One? How about a bucketful? Guard! GUARD!
---- A guard enters the chamber.
Guard: Yes, your honour?
Mayor: Ring the bells at once!
Guard: B...by your command!
---- The guard leaves.
Windleaf: I'm so excited! I've heard so much about the Gadgeteers!
Stinger: Yeah! Anyone who can make a city fly has GOT to be interesting...
Mayor: What in Crobb's name is taking so long? GUARD!
---- The guard returns.
Guard: Sir! The ringer... It's not working!
Brady: That's not possible!
Willis: Better have a look at it, Brady.
Brady: Aye...
You might send someone to the tower, too...
This smells fishy!
Willis: Stinger! Windleaf!
Stinger: Yes, Captain?
Willis: Think you could go to the Bell Tower and have a look around?
Windleaf: Of course.
Willis: Report back here when you're done.
Stinger: Yes, sir!
---- The screen goes black and they are alone in the Council Room.
Stinger: Ready for this?
Windleaf: I suppose so. Let's check our gear and head out!
Stinger: I got a funny feelin' about this...
Windleaf: Me, too. Seems awfully odd for the device we need to fail, when we
need it the most!
---- They leave the Council building.
---------------------
Inside the Bell Tower
---------------------
Setting: A large building where the party appears as tiny. They climb the
ladder up to a platform, where there are large cog wheels. There is also a
strange monster waiting there.
Stinger: Yipes! I think we know why the bells aren't ringing!
Dethknoller: Who....
...is so
...dim...of brain...
...to disturb...
...Dethknoller?
Windleaf: Deaf...knoller?
What?!
Stinger: It's an old kid's tale...
It's a monster that rings church bells in the dead of night before
killing its victims.
Windleaf: It looks awfully alive to me...for a creature from an old kid's
tale...
Stinger: How does that rhyme go...?
"Dethknoller, Dethknoller..."
Dethknoller: "...the time has..."
"...come..."
Stinger: "Dethknoller, Dethknoller..."
Dethknoller: "...the last bell's..."
"...rung!..."
Stinger: Yeah, that's it!
Windleaf: What's it mean?
Stinger: It means "LOOK OUT!"
---- Battle.
Stinger: Keerg's Mother! That was a close one...
Windleaf: How does an imaginary monster come alive? And how did it get in
here without being noticed?
Stinger: I dunno...but we'd better tell the Council.
Windleaf: Look at all the broken machinery...the bells...
This was deliberate... Sabotage...
Stinger: Hokum...
Only someone with a really sick sense of humour could conjure up
something like that...
Windleaf: I think it's safe to say things have just gotten worse...
---- They join together again.
-----------------------------
Return to the Council Offices
-----------------------------
Mayor: You're back! Report!
Stinger: Well, sir... We have good news and bad news.
Whyte: Enough with the games, son. Let's have the good news!
Stinger: We found out why the bell wasn't ringing.
Brady: Let me guess... Rodents are the wiring!
Stinger: Not exactly. The bells were sabotaged...
Windleaf: ...by a Dethknoller...
High Sage: Sacred tomes alive! You mean like in the children's story?!
Stinger: Exactly... Two heads, big teeth... Everything!
Willis: What happened?
Windleaf: It attacked...we only barely managed to kill it...
High Sage: Keerg's blood! What's the BAD news, then?
Stinger: Um...it kinda thrashed the place. The mechanism is in bad shape.
Brady: Well, don't fret. You've done your part. Now let me do mine!
Stinger: We were hoping you'd say something like that...
Brady: I'll need some help, though.
There's a tome, the Clockworks Codex, in the Temple of Wisdom...
Windleaf: Why don't you get started with your repairs? We'll bring it to you!
High Sage: Come to the Temple... I'll find it!
Stinger: Anything else we can do?
Brady: Let's see... I'll need to talk to old Liam, too.
Stinger: We'll fetch him for you.
Brady: Report to me at the Belltower once you have the Codex in hand and
Liam handy!
Stinger: We're on it!
---- They are then outside the Council Offices.
-----------------
Mayor's Residence
-----------------
Setting: After this event, the Mayor's house is open again.
Mayor: Hi, kids...
Windleaf: Hello, sir.
Mayor: This new mission of yours... Eyre...a journey to Wyldern... it all
makes my head swim...
Stinger: Tell us about it! I just hope we can find some help.
Mayor: Well, we have to trust the Magi on this one. We wish you luck!
Stinger: Thanks, your honour.
---- Speak to him again.
Mayor: Good luck to you!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Moving on to Eyre 0122
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
Get Liam
--------
Liam: Ohhh... My head feels like a burned piston...
Stinger: Yeah? Cut bacl on the hooch, then!
Windleaf: Shh, Stinger. We need his help, rememeber?
Liam: Help? Whazzat you siad? You need my help?
Windleaf: That's right, Liam. The ringing device in the Belltower isn't
working.
Stinger: The council says you're the only guy who can fix it.
Liam: Yep...that I can. But I'll be spanked if I will!
Windleaf: What?
Liam: There's no way I'm gonna help summon those...
...those...perverse THINGS!
Stinger: Look...if you don't help us a lot of people will die!
Liam: Nothing anyone can do about that... Not my call! Not anymore!
Them Gadgeteers are EVIL!
Windleaf: Liam, it is the will of tthe Magi... We need the citizens of Eyre!
Liam: "Citizens of Eyre...?" You mean the bloody Gadgeteers?!
They're the ones behind all of this!
Windleaf: No, they're not... I'm not at liberty to explain everything...
Nor do I understand it all... But we need their help.
It's the only way we can reach our allies in time...
Stinger: Trust her, Liam. She's telling the truth. They are our friends...
They can help us!
Liam: (sigh) There's no point in fighting. You'll do it yourself, sooner
or later.
You just seem so sure of yerselves... That's a bad sign in my
book...
Windleaf: It'll be okay, Liam.
Liam: Pfaugh! you wanna die young, so be it! Who am I to stop you?
Meet me at the Belltower. Let's get this over with!
He leaves the house.
--------------
Hall of Wisdom
--------------
High Sage: Salutations!
Stinger: We're here for the Clockworks Codex.
High Sage: Always right to the point, aren't you?
Stinger: I'm not trying to be rude...I just...
High Sage: Relax!
Here.
o--------------------o
| Party receives the |
| Clockworks Codex |
o--------------------o
High Sage: Now, then. Anything else we can do for you?
Stinger: Yeah...there is! What can you tell us about Wyldern?
High Sage: Now there's a name I haven't heard in a while...
Stinger: The Mages told us a bit about it. But I got the feeling they were
holding something back...
High Sage: Hmm. There aren't many facts we can share with you.
Our lore is steeped in legend, coloured by time...
Journeys were made to Wyldern, long ago.
In fact, Keerg's pilgrimage took him to Wyldern.
Stinger: Wow...those are some big footsteps to follow.
...Keerg the Virtuous...
High Sage: We also know that the Magi sealed all paths leading to Wyldern.
Stinger: But why?
High Sage: Well...
It's not always prudent to pry into the affairs of the Magi...
Windleaf: We won't tell a soul!
High Sage: Well, we believe the pathways were sealed to protect Wyldern...
...from Arkose.
Stinger: What? That's crazy!
High Sage: Perhaps. You can't deny our war torn past, though.
Windleaf: So...the Magi thought we might harm Wyldern.
High Sage: Indeed.
Windleaf: Maybe they were right...
Stinger: Some businessman probably would have gone down there and turned it
into a mushroom ranch or something...
High Sage: Precisely...
There are several tomes with references to Wyldern here.
I'd suggest reading them before you leave.
Windleaf: Thank you, your eminence, for your wise counsel.
---------------------------
Municipal Accounting Office
---------------------------
Dix: Now what?
Stinger: You know what, you crusty old miser!
Windleaf: Uh...what he's trying to say is...
Dix: Oh, I know! You greedy devils are here for your money!
Windleaf: Why do you always have to be so rude?
None of your business. Here you are! Count it if you like.
o--------------------o
| 250 gold received! |
o--------------------o
Stinger: Wait a minute! This is short! Where's the rest of the money?
Dix: Why...taxes, of course. Did you actually expect to get it tax free?
Stinger: We nearly died getting that message through!
Windleaf: Stinger...
Dix: I don't care if you're Keerg himself... Everyone pays taxes!
Stinger: You'll regret this...
Dix: Somehow, I doubt that very much. Good day!
Stinger: Oh, we're not done yet! Step outside, big shot!
Windleaf: Come on Stinger. Maybe someone on the Council can help us.
Stinger: Screw the Council! No one cheats me!
Windleaf: What do you mean, "me?" That's "our" money. And I want mine
outside...NOW!
Stinger: Grrr... I'm only doing this as a favour to you, Windleaf!
---- The party regroups. Speak to Dix again.
Dix: I'm busier now than you, your children, and your grandchildren will
EVER be!
Vanish or face the Tax Audit from Hell!
Mayor's Residence Again
-----------------------
Mayor: Welcome. What can I do for you?
Stinger: I'll tell you what you can do! Fire that...that...
...snooty bean counter!
Mayor: Bean counter...? Oh! You must mean Dix.
Windleaf: Yes, sir. Mr Dix has been...
Mayor: Difficult? Rude? Ruthless?
Windleaf: Well, yes!
Mayor: It takes a special breed to be a good taxman. What happened
exactly?
Windleaf: Our funds for the courier mission were heavily taxed.
Mayor: What?! The paperwork must have been messed up! That payment was
supposed to be tax free!
Stinger: That's what I was hoping to hear!
Mayor: We have to make this right!
Here you go. Signed...sealed...and you can deliver it!
o------------------------------o
| Received the Mayor's Orders! |
o------------------------------o
Those orders authorise payment in full, plus 15 percent extra for
hazardous duty!
Stinger: I can't wait to show this to that old weasel!
Windleaf: Thank you, your honour.
Mayor: My pleasure. Good luck on your new mission!
---- Speak to him again.
Mayor: Glad to be of service. Good luck to you!
Accounting Office Again
------------------------
Dix: All right, my patience is at an end! I'll not tolerate...
Stinger: Shut your yap and read this!
o-------------------------------------o
| Stinger gives Mayor's Orders to Dix |
o-------------------------------------o
Dix: Bzzz...bzz...comply...
Bzz...fully...Bzz...heroes...Karillon...bzz...
TAX-FREE?!?
Stinger: That's right, stud. Absolutely tax-free!
Windleaf: We'd like the rest of our money, please.
Stinger: Don't forget the hazardous duty pay!
Dix: The mayor must be insane... Still, orders are orders. here!
o---------------------o
| 1500 gold received! |
o---------------------o
Stinger: Been a pleasure! Here's a kiss for luck! Smoooch!
---- Stinger kisses Dix.
Dix: Of all the unmitigated nerve! I'm calling the militia! Get out,
you hooligans!
--------------------
The Bell Tower Again
--------------------
Brady: Great! Everything and everyone we need is here.
Liam: Okay... Let's get on with it!
---- Liam and Brady climb the steps up to the cog wheels.
Liam: Gonna need a new pneuma-piston...
Brady: Looks like the con-gear is shot...
Stinger: Come on, guys, we haven't got all day...
---- The screen goes black.
o--------------o
| Time passes. |
o--------------o
---- There is the sound of sawing and then a bell rings.
Brady: Let the bells of Karillon ring proud!
---- There is the sound of five bell rings.
Stinger: Argh! I think I just lost my hearing! Why didn't you warn us?
---- Liam and Brady come back down the steps.
Brady: You'll be fine. Let's just hope the good folks of Eyre heard that.
Liam: Good folks, my...
Brady: Come on, old timer. We've got to get that Skybridge ready!
Stinger: Skybridge?
Brady: Yes! Eyre is a flying city. It will need to dock!
Stinger: Dock?!? You mean like a ship docks?
Brady: Exactly. The two cities will connect by way of the Skybridge!
Liam: HAH! We're all doomed, you know that?
Brady: Hardly! Have a little faith!
Stinger: Okay... What about us? What do we do?
Liam: Watch the skies! And tremble...
Brady: Oh, brother...
Check in with us at the Skytower often.
Stinger: Okay.
Brady: You'll need to be present when the big moment comes!
Stinger: Will do, sir.
Brady: Come on, Liam. History awaits!
Liam: More like infamy...
---- Brady and Liam leave.
Windleaf: This is what I hate the most.
Stinger: What's that?
Windleaf: The waiting... The lack of direction...and control...
Stinger: Relax! Let's go have some fun!
Windleaf: While we still can, I suppose...
---- They stop talking and are free to leave the Tower.
-------------
The Skybridge
-------------
Brady: Hello again! Should be ready soon.
Liam: I must be mad... Why else would I be doing this?
Guard: I have no idea what they're doing, but it must be important if I'm
here.
---- Speak to the Guard again.
Guard: Greetings! Pretty fascinatin' stuff, eh? The Architect says this
is the wave of the future.
---- (Leave the bridge and return for the same conversations again.)
---- After about 5 minutes from the time when Liam and Brady left the
Tower, something will happen.
Liam: Listen...d'you hear that?!
Brady: Like the sound of thunder...
Guard: Shall I alert the militia?
Brady: Heavens, no!
Stinger: LOOK!
Windleaf: Oh...oh, dear...
Liam: Gods have mercy on us all!
Brady: It...it...it's...
...stupendous...!
---- Cinematic of a huge city ship docking, and bridge goes flat.
Brady: Keerg's beard! The docking platform... It actually worked!
Liam: Of course it did, you fool! All of their things work...
All too well!
Guard: Yessir, that's one big ole city.
Stinger: Man... I thought I'd seen strange things...
Windleaf: Ne too... This cakes the cake!
---- The door to Eyre opens and a Gadgeteer walks forwards.
Brady: Greetings, honoured Techsmith! Allow me to welcome you to Karillon.
Liam: G...g...g...
Stinger: What's wrong with you, Liam?
Liam: G...g..GADGETEER! Yiiiiiiiii!!!
---- Liam runs away and leaves the bridge.
Stinger: What got into him?
Gadgeteer: You rang...?
Stinger: Is that supposed to be funny?
Gadgeteer: Not funny.
You summoned us.
We are here.
State your purpose.
Brady: Er...yes, well... We have a great need, you see, and...
Stinger: Sheesh... Let me handle this, Brady.
---- Stinger runs forward to speak to the Gadgeteer.
Stinger: Listen here, uh, sir. You see, we...
Gadgeteer: State...your...purpose.
Stinger: Uh, well... Here.
It's a letter from the Magi.
o-------------------------o
| Stinger hands over the |
| "Letter to Gadgeteers." |
o-------------------------o
Gadgeteer: Document authenticity verified. Contents transmitted.
Awaiting orders from Elder Makers.
Brady: Wow. The Elder Makers. No one's ever seen them!
Stinger: Great. Let's hope they're in a charitable mood.
Windleaf: The Magi seemed to think they'd help us, given the situation.
Gadgeteer: Response received.
Elder Makers have reached a decision.
Stinger: And...?
Gadgeteer: Arkosians Stinger and Windleaf are to accompany this unit into Eyre.
Brady: Just...them? Certainly, in such a situation, they will need
guidance...
Gadgeteer: Negative. That is all.
Brady: I...see. Well... Good luck, you two!
Windleaf: We'll do our best, sir.
Gadgeteer: Arkosians Stinger and Windleaf will follow this unit now.
---- Windleaf runs to catch up with Stinger.
Stinger: Real lord of etiquette, isn't he?
Windleaf: It could be worse.
Stinger: Yeah?
Windleaf: Yes. He could have said no...
Stinger: Right you are...
Guess we'd better follow, Arkosian Windleaf...
Windleaf: After you, fellow Arkosian...
---- Black screen. They walk into the main control room of Eyre.
===============================================================================
13. EYRE 0130
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. First Visit 0131
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The floors are listed, starting with Floor 3, as that is where the party enters
Eyre. Then the floors are back in order, from Floor 1, (at the top of the
elevator), down to Floor 5, which is the main shopping area, and contains the
Inn and exit to the outside.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 3: Habitat
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------
Hall of The Elder Makers
------------------------
Setting: In the control room, there are three Gadgeteers and three shields on
the wall. There are a couple of tables and chairs.
Gadgeteer: The Arkosians Stinger and Windleaf.
Gali: That's all, Mervin. Please resume your standard duties.
Gadgeteer: By your will, Elder Maker.
---- The Gadgeteer leaves.
Einn: Hello there. We are the Elder Makers, leaders of Eyre.
Bel: The Magi speak highly of you. We are impressed.
Stinger: Thanks! We earn our pay...
Gali: A cavalier attitude. It will serve you well.
Windleaf: The person who led us here... Is he a...robot?
Einn: No. He's alive. He's just very young.
Bel: Five years of age, to be precise.
Stinger: He's pretty big for a five year old.
Gali: We age and grow...differently than you.
Windleaf: I see. It's just...well, he acted a little like a friend of ours...
Stinger: Yeah...you should know him. Harv-5...he's a farm robot.
Einn: ...
Yes. The last of the failed Harvester series.
Gali: One-of -a-kind unit. He was constructed here many of your years
ago.
Bel: You refer to the unit as...a friend.
Are we to assume that it has a...personality?
Windleaf: Oh, yes. He's very serious, brave, and loyal.
Stinger: And stubborn, ornery, and naive...
Windleaf: Stinger!
Gali: That's quite all right, miss.
Einn: We are pleased. The unit has out-performed our expectations...
Most curious...
Bel: It is unfortunate that the unit is not with you.
Stinger: Well...he's with another friend of ours.
They're going to Siltheria on an errand for the Magi.
Bel: I see. Speaking of the Magi...
Einn: We've evaluated their request. We believe we can assist you.
However...
Gali: Getting to Wyldern will be dangerous. You may not survive the
journey.
Stinger: Well...we're here, aren't we?
Bel: Yes, but...
Very well. I can see you are prepared, at least mentally.
Einn: You will be using one of our vehicles to navigate an underwater
passageway.
We built it eons ago, in order to gain access to the inner world.
You will have to pass through a series of hydraulic doors. They
keep the water in the Loch from...flooding the inner world.
Gali: A doorway lies at the bottom of the passageway. It leads to a body
of water in Wyldern.
Einn: There may be...creatures swimming in the passageway... You will be
armed, but must be careful.
Bel: We will train you to operate the vehicle.
Einn: It is currently being modified to serve your needs.
Gali: This will take some time. We advise you to make preparations for
your journey.
Bel: Say your good-byes, stock up on supplies, what have you.
Gali: You may also explore Eyre. It might be interesting to you...
Einn: Return to us when you are ready to leave.
Stinger: It's a deal. C'mon, Windleaf. Let's check this place out!
---- Speak to them all again, and Gali will ask:
Gali: Are you ready to leave Karillon?
Yes
No
#Select: No.
Gali: Very well. Report here when you are ready.
##Select: Yes.
Gali: So be it. We leave now. Next stop: Loch Domhain!
Report to the Equipment Deck. There you will launch the Sub and
begin your journey to Wyldern.
---- Cinematic of Eyre leaving Karillon.
---- Speak to any Elder.
Einn: We've assumed a position above Loch Domhain.
When you are ready to launch report to the Hall of Vehicles.
---- Check the shelf at the top left of the room.
o-------------------------o
| Shelves of what look to |
| be shoes...but for more |
| sets of feet than are |
| attached to any biped. |
o-------------------------o
------
Lounge
------
Setting: A room with purple walls and bright blue tables. There is a
Gadgeteer standing to the right.
Stinger: Wonder what goes on here?
Windleaf: I've no clue.
Frank: Now there's a sight I haven't seen in a while.
Stinger: What's that?
Frank: Some good lookin' kids from the Homelands.
Windleaf: You...know of the Homelands?
Frank: Sure do. Been there a few times. Sold a few goods to people out
there!
Stinger: Wow. Everyone else here seems...a little distant.
Frank: We lead a pretty secluded life here...it's to be expected.
Windleaf: So...you're a merchant?
Frank: I was. Now I run this lounge. I'm semi-retired, you see.
Stinger: It's a nice place.
Frank: Why, thanks. Not as lively as some of the pubs in Karillon...
Stinger: That's not exactly a bad thing.
Frank: Oh, yeah?
Stinger: Sometimes those places could mellow out a little.
Frank: Ha! That they could.
Well, make yourselves at home.
Stinger: Thanks.
---- Speak to him again.
Frank: Come on in, heroes. Get comfortable...
Forget about the war for a bit.
.
--------------
A Curious Room
--------------
Setting: A long narrow room with red lit circles at the top half of the main
wall and white lit circles at the bottom half. There is a Gadgeteer.
Gadgeteer: Attention, visitors.
This area is for Gadgeteers only.
Stinger: Sorry. Just passing through.
Gadgeteer: Vacate the premises at once.
Windleaf: Um...okay...
Stinger: Can you tell us what this place is?
Gadgeteer: No.
Go.
Now.
Stinger: Right you are.
---- They regroup. Speak to him again.
Gadgeteer: Leave. Now. Do not make me use force.
Stinger: All right, all right. We're going!
---- Check the tubes.
o--------------------------o
| An uncomfortable energy |
| emanates from the tubes. |
o--------------------------o
--------
Elevator
--------
Setting: A large lift with Mort, the Gadgeteer, who will take the group to
whichever floor they select.
---- Select a floor.
Mort: Ooh! you're gonna love it there...
Going up...
Going down...
---- Select Work Area.
Mort: Ah yes, I have fond memories of that place.
---- Select Recreation Area.
Mort: Excellent choice.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 1: Instrument Tower
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------
Instrument Room
---------------
Setting: A control room with various instruments and Grover a red dressed
Gadgeteer.
Grover: Hel-lo.
Stinger: Hi there. Pretty interesting place you have here.
Grover: Pret-ty. In-ter-es-ting. Yes. Both.
Windleaf: Um---what do you do here?
Grover: Ob-serve. Re-cord. Doc-u-ment.
Stinger: This one's probably seven. Maybe eight.
Windleaf: Thank you for speaking with us. May we look around?
Grover: Look. See. Yes.
Windleaf: Thanks!
Grover: Wel-come. You are. Yes.
---- Grover starts to walk back and forth checking the instruments.
---- Speak to him again.
Grover: Man-y things to see. This know I. Yes.
---- Check the machine on the left of the room.
o--------------------------------o
| Automatic threshold variation |
| stabiliser. Do not change |
| current settings or visiting |
| Arkosians could die. |
o--------------------------------o
---- Check the telescope.
o----------------------o
| Powerful telescope. |
| Coupled to an image- |
| enhancing and auto |
| archiving system. |
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 2: Bridge
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------
Bridge
------
Setting: A round room with three Gadgeteers and a central round platform.
Stinger: Wow! This place is intense!
Windleaf: I wonder what they do here?
Wallace: Simply put, we steer the city from here.
Stinger: So, it's the bridge? Like on a ship?
Wallace: Yes.
You are the Arkosians Stinger and Windleaf, are you not?
Stinger: That's right.
Wallace: I am Commodore Wallace, leader of the Eyre Defence Corps.
Windleaf: It's a pleasure to meet you. sir.
Wallace: You'll be happy to know we've reached the launch site.
Stinger: Great. I guess we'll be going down that trench pretty soon.
Wallace: Affirmative. It's a risky venture.
I wish I were going with you!
Stinger: You're joking, right?
Wallace: Negative! Can't help it... The thirst for adventure...
Guess it's in my blood!
Windleaf: Well, the way things are going, we'll probably all have many
adventures before it's over!
Wallace: I believe you're on to something, miss!
Well...feel free to look around. Just...
Stinger: Yeah, we know. "Don't touch anything."
Wallace: Indeed.
---- The party regroups. Speak to everyone.
Wallace: Good luck on your mission!
Helmsman: I am the Helm Officer. I steer the city.
It's a rewarding job...but very intense!
Some day I'll be a Captain!
Navigator: I am the Navigation Officer.
I determine the best course to follow, then give the directions to
the Helmsman.
That is all. Excuse, please. Must work now.
I hope to transfer to Design when my tour of duty expires. Defence
is dull!
---- Check the instrument panels.
o---------------------------o
| Astro-navigation cluster. |
o---------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Hyperdrive control panel. |
o---------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 4: Work Area
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
The Lab
--------
Setting: A tiled room with large work benches and three Gadgeteers, dressed in
red.
Stinger: Check this place out!
Windleaf: It makes Abran's smithy look...primitive.
Troy: Arkosians! Greetings, Arkosians.
Daniel: I am not impressed.
Dominick: You say that about everything you didn't design.
Windleaf: H...hello.
Troy: You are a...female, no?
Windleaf: Uh...yes.
Troy: You have been well built. Your lines are elegant, streamlined...
Windleaf: Um...thanks...but I wasn't built...I was born.
Troy: Ah. Yes. Born. Well, you are well-born, then!
Stinger: Take it easy, loverboy. She's with me.
Troy: Apologies. I do not covet your female.
Daniel: He's making a female robot. He's infatuated with Arkosian females.
He believes he sees in them the 'sublime curve.'
This would make your females symbols of universal truth and beauty.
Troy: It is you who is infatuated with the Arkosian females!
Your new food synthesiser delivers mounds of food in...obvious
shapes.
Daniel: You are incorrect. you are reading into my inventions what you
wish to see.
Stinger: I think you guys have some talking to do...
Daniel: I am capturing the essence of cosmic beauty. That is all.
Dominick: Why don't you two go your into the corridor and pummel each other?
Anyway, your devices are of no consequence when compared to my new
invention.
Troy: Here he goes again...
Stinger: What're you working on, champ?
Dominick: I call it an amplified sound-resonating personal music device, or
ASRPMD for short.
I suppose you might call it an 'electric guitar.'
Stinger: What's wrong with a regular guitar?
Dominick: It is inefficient. This is new.
A new guitar, for a new age.
Stinger: Uh, huh...
Dominick: It is louder, has a wider range of sound which can be infinitely
shaped and changed through electronics...
---- There is a pause of a few seconds while he demonstrates.
Stinger: Hopla!!! I think you're on to something!
Windleaf: Ugh! Only if you want to frighten people... That will never catch
on!
Dominick: Yes, it will. And when it does, you will acknowledge my clarity of
vision.
Stinger: I guess time will tell...
Dominick: Negative. Time has been surprisingly quiet as of late.
Stinger: Yeah, sure. S...see ya around.
---- The party regroups. Speak to them again.
Daniel: Soon there will be a food sythnesising machine in every home!
Dominick: After this, I shall make...the Electric Bagpipes!
I'll be famous!
Troy: Perhaps I will name my new robot Windleaf!
--------
Workshop
--------
Setting: A room with lighted panels on one wall and two work benches. There
are three Gadgeteers dressed in blue.
Nigel: Look. Arkosians. Visitors.
David: Yes. Didn't you scan the update?
Derek: Yes, yes! The update told all!
Nigel: I was busy. This cannon design is due by the next daycycle!
David: Too much play. Not enough work. Typical Nigel behaviour.
Derek: Will end in demotion. Assignment to sanitation. We will not
lament.
Nigel: Engage in suicidal activity. Both of you. I will succeed.
---- They are all arguing and shaking their fists as each other.
---- Speak to them all.
Nigel: Hello humans. I am Nigel. I am a weaponsmith.
Stinger: Really? I'd heard Gadgeteers were pacifists.
Nigel: No exactly. We will defend if necessary.
These cannons will help. Smaller versions are on your vehicle.
Stinger: I see. Well, good luck your deadline.
Nigel: Expression of gratitude. Will attempt to succeed.
---- Speak to him again.
Nigel: Do not wish to ignore, but work must be completed. Therefore, I
ignore.
David: Designed navigation grid for your vehicle. It will serve you well.
Derek: Curious. Arkosians taking mission. Gadgeteers better suited.
-------
Bio-Lab
-------
Setting: An empty room with a table and some intruments on the wall, a barred
off section.
Victor: The Arkosians. Stinger and Windleaf. Greetings.
Stinger: Hello.
Victor: Your people are a curious bunch.
No doubt you're wondering what goes on here.
Windleaf: Well...yes!
Victor: This is the Bio-Lab.
It has been my task of late, to analyse the new ofrms of life on
Arkose.
Stinger: Like all the monsters out there?
Victor: Really... 'Monster' is such an ugly word.
I prefer to think of them as ill-adjusted to their new habitat.
Stinger: Well, that's your opinion. Having fought a lot of 'em, I'll stick
with 'monster'.
Victor: Suit yourself.
Windleaf: If I may...What do you intend to do with your findings?
Victor: I will submit data to all departments.
Defence will prepare weaponry to repel the creatures should they
attack.
Diplomacy will prepare ways to interact with them, should the need
arise.
Stinger: The kitchen will learn how to prepare them should you get
hungry...!?
Victor: Uh...just so, Arkosian.
Stinger: Hmph. Sounds like you think they're monsters, too.
Victor: ...
Windleaf: We should be going now.
Victor: I will miss you.
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Victor: It was my work studying your kind that has led to our alliance.
Perhaps such positive relations can be reached with teh beings you
call 'monsters'...
---- Check the box.
o------------------------o
| Assorted lab supplies, |
| research documents |
| and an ash tray stolen |
| from an Inn in Arkose. |
o------------------------o
---- Check the controls on the wall.
o------------------------------o
| Atmospheric controls. |
| used to adjust room to |
| house a variety of different |
| life forms. |
o------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 5: Recreation
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This is a vast space, and there are a few Gadgeteers walking around.
There are rooms lit with green that can be seen to the left and right.
Going from the top left hand corner down you will find:
1. The Equipment Deck
2. Eyre Bed and Breakfast
3. Autonomic Movement Centre
From the right hand top corner down you will find all the shops.
4. Gadgeteria (Item shop)
5. Stuart's Fine Weapons
6. Wilhelm's Armour Shop
7. Harry's Curios (Item Shop)
--------------
The Main Floor
--------------
Stinger: Whoa.
Windleaf: It's almost like Hightowne in here...
Stinger: Yeah...only...there's less of everything!
Windleaf: You're right. It looks a little bland in here, doesn't it.
Stinger: No, that's not what I meant! Hightowne is too...uh, I dunno...
...too formal or something. It's kinda...snooty!
Yeah, that's it!
Windleaf: Snooty...? Is that a technical term?
Stinger: If it isn't it should be!
Windleaf: Will wonders never cease?!
You continue to delight and amaze!
Stinger: It's a knack I have, I guess.
Windleaf: Yes indeed...
Now come on. Let's look around.
Maybe we can find a gift for Harv-5!
Stinger: We're on an important mission, and you want to shop for Harv-5?!
Now who's being silly?
Windleaf: Oh, stop being so serious! Let's have fun for a bit.
Stinger: ...
Why not?
-----
Jerry
-----
A Gadgeteer in blue, strolling at the left of the area.
Jerry: Well, well! It's the swingin' Arkosians!
Stinger: Hello.
Windleaf: Hi.
Jerry: What's on your grey matter, kids?
Windleaf: I'm curious... Do you ever take off your armour?
Jerry: Whoa! Kind of a personal question, eh?
Windleaf: Oh! I'm sorry!
Jerry: Don't let it worry you, girl.
And to answer your question... All the time.
Stinger: But...never around Arkosians...
Jerry: The kid's sharp!
Windleaf: Why is that?
Jerry: Well, I don't see you runnin' around naked, honey.
Windleaf: Certainly not!
Jerry: There ya have it. We're extremely modest.
---- Speak to him again.
Jerry: Be sure and check out the sights, kids! This joint really hops!
----
Dean
----
Another Gadgeteer in blue walking around at the right of the area.
Dean: Hello, Arkosians.
Stinger: Hello, Gadgeteer.
Dean: You may call me Dean. It is my AIN.
Windleaf: AIN?
Dean: Arkosian Interaction Name.
We use it when dealing with Arkosians. It makes things...easier.
Stinger: Um...I have a question.
Dean: Yes?
Stinger: Why is it that you guys always refer to us as "Arkosians?"
Dean: Isn't that what you are?
Stinger: Yeah, but I don't call someone from Siltheria an "Arkosian"...
I call them a Siltherian. Or, if I know 'em, I call them by name.
It makes me think...that you guys aren't much like us...under all
that stuff you wear.
Dean: That's an interesting thought.
Windleaf: It sure is. Care to comment on it?
Dean: No!
Stinger: What do you mean, "no?"
Dean: Just that. No.
Some questions don't require answers.
---- Speak to him again.
Stinger: Come on... Just a hint? Who are you guys?
Dean: We are Gadgeteers. We are Arkosians. We are your friends.
What else is there?
--------------------
Southern Exit/Portal
--------------------
Windleaf: This place is pretty. Quiet, too.
Stinger: Quiet...what a concept...
Windleaf: It's nice.
Stinger: But not very real in the midst of everything going on right now...
Windleaf: True...but sometimes in life you have to just enjoy the moment, no?
Stinger: Yeah, I guess so. Say...uh...
Windleaf: Uh, huh...
Stinger: What was it like...I mean before your family died? Were you happy?
Windleaf: Most of the time, I guess. I've never really thought much about it.
Stinger: How about your parents. Did you get on well with them?
Windleaf: Yeah, most of the time. My dad was a great guy. He was starting
to become more of a friend than a parent...my mum, too, I guess...
Stinger: Sorry...
Windleaf: No, I want to remember them... It's odd that I would do it here,
but...
Stinger: Yeah...I miss mine to... Never knew my dad too well, but my mum did
a pretty good job all by herself...
That is until she got married again... What a drag...
Windleaf: Had a hard time with the new guy, I guess?
Stinger: Yeah. I think he was born to hate me.
Windleaf: I...guess you're not too sad to know he's gone?
Stinger: I wouldn't go that far. I wouldn't wish that kind of death on
anyone...
Windleaf: I don;t think we'll ever make sense of this...
Stinger: I'm not trying to. I...I guess it all just comes back to me from
time to time...
Windleaf: Me too... I'm just glad I met you and the rest of the bunch!
Stinger: Me too!
Windleaf: Well, my friend, enough of the past! At least for now.
Stinger: My sentiments exactly!
---- Speak to the Gadgeteer in yellow.
Sammy: Hello there.
Stinger: How's it going?
Sammy: Just fine, just fine.
Windleaf: This is a nice place.
Sammy: You like it? It's my duty-station. Has been for years.
Stinger: Really? I thought you guys were all about machines?
Sammy: To an extent. But for some of us, maintaining old Eyre is the life!
Everyone here has a part to play.
Stinger: Make sense to me.
Sammy: So...you two are a mated couple?
Windleaf: !!!
Stinger: Um...no, no we're not.
Windleaf: We're not married, if that's what you mean.
Sammy: Oh. My mistake.
Siblings then?
Stinger: Nope. Just...
Windleaf: ...just friends.
Stinger: "Just friends...?"
Windleaf: Aren't we...?!
Stinger: Well...sure, I guess!
Sammy: I see... Well, "friends." Enjoy my city!
Windleaf: We will. Thanks!
---- Speak to him again.
Sammy: Nice to see you. Enjoy your stay in Eyre.
-----------------
1. Equipment Deck
-----------------
Setting: This is a large space with an upper walkway and a blue lights. There
are arrows on the floor which lead to the Launch Point. This is a short tunnel
that leads nowhere for now.
Scotty: Arkosians on deck! I salute you!
Stinger: Howdy, bub. Say, what smells so funny in here?
Windleaf: It kind of smells like lamp fuel or something...
Scotty: Affirmative! This is a factory. Or at least it was.
Any space in this vessel can be used for any purpose. Eyre is
completely plastic.
Stinger: But everything is made of steel and stone!
Scotty: Not so. For your convenience we have made this vessel
appear...familiar.
In a like manner, we have adopted quaint Arkosian names, and are
speaking to you in your own language.
You would not have been able to navigate your way through Eyre as
it was configured even one day ago.
But now to the matter at hand...
The modifications we are making to your vehicle are almost complete.
Stinger: Excellent. I can't wait to check it out!
Scotty: Are you an experienced aquanaut?
Stinger: ...ah kwee not?
Scotty: You know. One who explores underwater areas...
Stinger: Well, I know how to swim.
Windleaf: I...never learned.
Scotty: Hmm. Well too late for that.
At some point we'll need to acquaint you with the Aquatica's
controls.
Stinger: Ah kwa tika?
Scotty: The name of your vehicle.
Aquatica is a minisub. Deep One class.
In it you will navigate the Domhain Trench to the Great Vortex.
Upon entry into the Vortex, you will enter Wyldern.
Windleaf: Wyldern...the inner world.
Stinger: It's gonna be some trip, Windleaf!
Windleaf: Yes...
Scotty: Prepare well. Your journey will be strenuous.
Report to the Elder Makers when you are ready.
Stinger: Thanks. We will.
---- Speak to him again and he will repeat this message,
Scotty: Report to the Elder Makers when you are ready to launch.
-------------------------
2. Eyre Bed and Breakfast
-------------------------
Setting: A Gadgeteer in blue is standing behind a small desk. On either side
there are three holes in the floor edged with blue. These are the sleeping
compartments.
Ian: Welcome to the Eyre Bed and Breakfast!
Stinger: This is an inn?
Ian: You betcha!
This habitat has now been customised to serve your needs!
Stinger: Who...else sleeps here?
Ian: Actually... I'll let you in on a secret.
Our life support systems can sustain 3,452 species of sentient
beings!
Stinger: Is...that good?!
Ian: It's great!
Stinger: I guess so...as long as the 'rooms' have been cleaned...
Ian: Don't insult me! Everything here has been sanitised for your
protection!
Stinger: Sorry...
Ian: Forget it. I already have!
Would you like to stay the night? The fee is 200 gold
Yes
No
Yes
---- They automatically go inside different floor pods.
---- Speak to him again.
Ian: Welcome to the B and B! I'm Ian.
----------------------------
3. Autonomic Movement Centre
----------------------------
Setting: This is a dance place, with darkened lights and a red, green and blue
lighted floor. One Gadgeteer is dancing, and another sitting at a bar. There
is even a glitter ball!
Stinger: Whoa!
Windleaf: This place... It's beautiful...
Stinger: All these lights... Colours...
Windleaf: And the music! It's so strange...
Stinger: But it's got a good beat. Easy to dance to!
Windleaf: Uh...if you say so.
Stinger: What? You don't dance?
Windleaf: Not very well. I have two left feet.
Stinger: Oh, come on! Try...for me?
Windleaf: Not today... Maybe later, okay?
Stinger: Okay.
---- Speak to the three Gadgeteers.
EMC2: Howdy, disco citizens.
Stinger: Uh...hello.
EMC2: How do you like my grooves?
Windleaf: They're...uh...nice I guess.
EMC2: And you, funkster?
Stinger: They're swell...
EMC2: This is your first time in a disco!
Windleaf: Yes...does it show?
EMC2: Oh, no. You blend right in.
Stinger: Thanks!
EMC2: Do you have a request?
Windleaf: Request...? Well, I am a little hungry...
EMC2: No, no. I mean a musical request. I'm the DJ. I play music.
Anything you want to hear?
Stinger: Uh...you know 'Battle of Siltheria'?
EMC2: ???
What do you think this is, a sailor pub?!
EMC2: That's like, geek music, man.
Stinger: Huh?! I like that song!
EMC2: As did your grandpa, I'm sure.
You enjoy that stuff, man. Meanwhile we'll be groovin' to this
disco beat...!
Windleaf: Come on, Stinger. Let's relax.
Stinger: Geek music, my tush! Harrumph!
---- Speak to him again.
EMC2: It's time to get down! Shake that booty all around! Yeeeeeaaaah
booyyyy!
Tony: Check me out! I'm king of the disco. Oooh. Too hot!
Vince: Can't talk. Shaking booty.
---- Check out the things in the room.
o------------------------o
| Hay-Bay-Bee (R) |
| brand disco stools. |
| Treated for methane- |
| laced cocktail spills. |
o------------------------o
o------------------------o
| Temperature regulator. |
o------------------------o
o---------------o
| Sound driver. |
o---------------o
-------------
4. Gadgeteria
-------------
Setting: A room with strange green lights and some boxes and a large round
machine.
Bruce: Welcome to Gadgeteria.
Stinger: Thanks.
Bruce: Not sure I've a lot to offer you.
Stinger: Why's that?
Bruce: Well...? Most of this is for Gadgeteers.
Stinger: I see.
Bruce: Feel free to browse, though.
---- Shows inventory.
Bruce: Thanks for stopping by.
---- Speak to him again.
Bruce: Welcome to Gadgeteria. If you see something you like, let me know.
Thanks for your patronage.
---- Check the items.
o---------------------------o
| Fully automated |
| notochord massager. |
| Reload with number 5 |
| steel rasper when needed. |
o---------------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Speaker, for the purpose |
| of engaging in autonomic |
| movement. |
o--------------------------o
o----------------------o
| Kryptonic glow lamp |
o----------------------o
------------------------
5. Stuart's Fine Weapons
------------------------
Setting: A room with a large pink shelf on one wall and a couple of containers,
and a table.
Stuart: Buy something, or I will bind, gag and shoot you.
Stinger: What did you say?!
Stuart: Er...was that too aggressive? Marketing isn't my forte.
Stinger: Threatening to kill the customer is generally frowned on.
Stuart: Good to know...thanks!
Okay... Buy some of my goods, and I'll marry you!
Stinger: Uh...no.
Stuart: But I'm quite a prize! Very dependable! Prosperous, too!
Stinger: Merchants don't make a habit of marrying their customers, either.
Stuart: Hmm...
Wanna buy something?
Stinger: Better...much better.
---- Shows shop inventory.
Stuart: Come back, or I'll spread scandalous rumours about you!
Stinger: Hopeless...
---- Check the stuff in the room.
o--------------------------------o
| Shelves contain a photon |
| compression rifle, portable |
| electron generator, and a mag- |
| netic flux density regulating |
| field weapon. |
o--------------------------------o
o-----------------------------------o
| Kanbull's Primordial Soup (R). |
| Contains methane, ammonia, |
| and nitrogen all kissed by a bolt |
| of lightning. For use with |
| nanotechnology assembly 'bots. |
o-----------------------------------o
---- Return to the shop and speak to him again.
Stuart: Everyone cool shops here!
Keerg shopped here!
You should shop here too!
---- Shows inventory.
Stuart: You see? You're better than when you came in! This store is
beautiful!
------------------------
6. Wilhelm's Armour Shop
------------------------
Setting: A suit of Gadgeteer armour is displayed on a plinth. There is a
central counter in blue, with a pink surface. (Very pretty!)
Wilhelm: Welcome. TO WILHELM"S ...
...
a...armourshop?
Stinger: Are you all right?
Wilhelm: Apologies. I am attempting to provide a name in your language that
you can pronounce.
Redo mode engaged.
Welcome to Wilhelm's Armourshop!
---- Shows the shop inventory.
Wilhelm: Thank you very much. You were so nice to see. Won't you come
again? Stop by and visit me!
---- Speak to him again.
Wilhelm: Hello, Armour Shoppers! Scan my wares. They're very savoury, no?
---- Shows the inventory.
Wilhelm: Bring yourself back for more armour delights! Yeah, baby, yeah!
---- Check the items in the room.
o-----------------------------o
| A Kininian phase distorter. |
o-----------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Full-body intelligent |
| assault armour. Also |
| features a Class-1 |
| stasis field generator |
| in which you can 'freeze' |
| captives indefinitely. |
o---------------------------o
o-------------------o
| Shelves contain |
| unknown, and very |
| strange, items... |
o-------------------o
-----------------
7. Harry's Curios
-----------------
Setting: A Gadgeteer in yellow armour is standing completely motionless. There
are various odd machines and other things in the room. There are some white
lights arranged in a line.
Harry: ZzZzZzZzZ...
Stinger: Excuse me...?
Harry: Snnnxxxxxx!
Stinger: (ahem)
Harry: Snff! Hunh! Whaaa...
Stinger: Hello.
Harry: Aliens! C...customers?
Stinger: That's right.
Harry: W...what year is this?
Stinger: It's 485.
Harry: 485!!! Aaaaaaah!
Stinger: What's wrong?
Harry: I'VE BEEN INACTIVE FOR 8 YEARS!
Stinger: ...
Harry: It's a demotion for sure...Sanitation detail...
Stinger: ...
Harry: Reactor maintenance... Toxic disposal...
Stinger: I won't tell anyone.
Harry: Y-you won't?
Stinger: No.
Harry: Great! You're a lifesaver!
Harry: Um...I don't suppose you want to buy anything?
---- Shows shop inventory.
Harry: Can't believe I slept for 8 years...
---- Speak to him again.
Harry: I'malittlewired. Toomuchcoffee. Tryingtostayawake!
Wouldyouliketobuysomething?
---- Shows inventory.
Harry: Thanksforcoming. Stopbyagain. Byenow!
---- Check the things.
o------------------------o
| Odd statues and carved |
| figurines. |
o------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Shelves contain boiled oil |
| (a lubricant), methane |
| snappers (a snack), and |
| a flexible stay from an |
| X'torian Mark 2 solar |
| freighter. |
o----------------------------o
o-------------------------------o
| Armelian votive light-shrine. |
| Used at public bleedings, and |
| during the calibration of |
| 'Mayhewk,' the dark festival. |
| All import duties paid. |
o-------------------------------o
o------------------------o
| Monoallelic purifier. |
| Cleans the air |
| (for some species)! |
o------------------------o
o---------------------o
| Binary synchronous |
| Communications hub. |
o---------------------o
------------
Leaving Eyre
------------
Setting: After agreeing to leave Karillon and returning to the Equipment Deck
Scotty will explain.
Scotty: Ah! Here you are. The Aquatica is prepared and ready to launch.
Stinger: Great... Uh...
How does it work?
Scotty: You shall see. Prepare for training!
Stinger: Gulp.
o-----------------------------o
| Some time later, |
| after intensive training... |
o-----------------------------o
Stinger: Well, Scotty... Looks like we're good to go.
Windleaf: Bring on the Domhain Trench!
Scotty: Very well. The Aquatica awaits you.
Stinger: Thanks for everything, Scotty.
Windleaf: We'll see you when we get back.
Scotty: Good luck, Aquanauts!
Stinger: After you, Windleaf.
Windleaf: Why thank you... (gulp)
---- Cinematic of the sub being launched into the ocean.
*******************************************************************************
************************* PLEASE INSERT DISC 2 ********************************
******************************************************************************
===============================================================================
WYLDERN 0140
===============================================================================
All the events in Wyldern take place on Disc 2.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daiglo's Dock 0141
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They are at the end of a short wooden jetty next to the sub. There
are lights in the distance.
Stinger: I don't think I ever need to do that again.
Windleaf: I almost think the Gadgeteers were sending us to our deaths...
There's something wrong about them...
Stinger: Like?
Windleaf: Well, they're keeping dangerous secrets...
Stinger: Intuition or fact?
Windleaf: Call it what you want.
Stinger: Yeah, whatever...
Anyway, the sub is pretty well trashed.
No more joyrides for us...or anyone else for that matter.
Windleaf: There is one small problem...
Stinger: You mean the fact that we're smack-dab in the middle of Arkose with
no way to the surface?
Windleaf: Yeah, that...
Stinger: I don't even want to think about it...
Let's see if we can find someone to help us.
This dock doesn't look like a natural phenomenon...
Windleaf: The Magi were pretty cryptic about who or what was down here.
Let's move slowly until we have our bearings...
Stinger: My thoughts exactly!
---- The screen goes black and they are now at a new location.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Daiglo's Dwelling 0142
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They are standing in front of a house that has a flat roof with four
spinning flat things on top of the roof.
Stinger: Ooooookay.
Windleaf: What a strange little house!
Stinger: Think we should check it out?
Windleaf: Can't say as we have any choice...we need to find help some time.
Stinger: No time like the present!
---- They automatically move inside the house.
Daiglo: The omens were inauspicious...
Stinger: Uh, nice to meet you too, mister. ...what omens?
Daiglo: I knew last night that bad news was on the doorstep...
...The meatballs in my stew formed themselves into a smiley face.
Had to throw the whole durn thing away...
Windleaf: W-who are you?
Daiglo: Are you sure that's the right question to ask?
Isn't there something else you need to know?
Stinger: You mean like, "Have you taken your medication today old man?"
Daiglo: Oh, a funny guy.
Good. I wasn't sure what they were gonna throw at me next.
Stinger: Who's "they?"
Daiglo: Oh, listen to you! You're obviously two of Lord Hokum's ghouls, no?
Stinger: No!
I think you have us mixed up with the bad guys.
Windleaf: Hokum...we first heard that name back at the Magic Academy...
He's the one who got changed by that book and then escaped here,
into the world beneath Arkose...
The Magi were right. Their worst suspicions have been confirmed...
Stinger: They suspected something was wrong down here. We've found their
former "choir boy" turned demon...
Daiglo: ...You said "down here..." Y...you mean to tell me that you're
from...
..."above?"
Stinger: Yeah.
Daiglo: Lascivious lobsters alive!
All this time I've been wondering what kind of fantastic animals
lived up there in all that burning sunlight...
Stinger: Tired and hungry ones... And by the way, it's not that bad...
Daiglo: No, I suppose not.
I guess I won't have to slaughter you, then.
I've nailed a gaggle of Hokum's thugs right here in this room! The
rest I felled outside...
Mystic traps, you know! They never knew what hit 'em!
Stinger: Spare us the details, please.
Windleaf: You never answered me earlier. Who are you?
Daiglo: You can think of me as the caretaker of this place. I'm Toparri by
birth but by choice. The name's Daiglo.
Windleaf: Nice to meet you, Daiglo. We've...obviously had an accident...
Daiglo: I assume that Ballaich had one too! Elsewise you'd be sloshing
around inside his gut! Ha!
Stinger: We barely made it... By Keerg's beard that sub pulled us through in
one piece!
Daiglo: Sub...hmmm...Gadgeteer stuff... Made to last for 100, 000 leagues
or your money back.
I'm gonna have to ask you to move that tub from the dock. Can't
have you trashing the one place I go to commune with nature.
Windleaf: But...it's broken. The creature damaged it beyond repair.
Daiglo: No excuses! Just get rid of it!
Stinger: Come on, Windleaf. If he want to deal with it, let him. We need
to get going...
---- They join together again. Attempt to leave.
Daiglo: Hey! I'm not done yet!
Stinger: What?!
Daiglo: You're not listening! I'm trying to tell you that you don't stand
a chance against Hokum.
This isn't an ordinary bad boy, you know!
Stinger: So we've heard...
Daiglo: Hokum snaps his fingers and men dissolve into dust...
Hokum hums a little tune and the earth swallows up his enemies...
Hokum glares and men fall dead in their tracks...
Stinger: You're just full of jolly news...
Daiglo: Listen to me, "hero." Run, don't walk to the nearest Gadgeteer sub
and make for home. You'll never regret it.
Stinger: Well, seeing as how the sub doesn't run anymore I don't think yours
is much of an idea.
We're here to explore and learn...and fight!
Daiglo: Well, don't say I didn't warn you.
And if that is really your desire...
...then I can actually guide you right into the battle of your
dreams!
You see, Hokum's fiends are savaging the town of Pays'Hom, not far
from here.
If you want to play "hero" then make for Pays'Hom!
Windleaf: What...kind of "fiends?"
Daiglo: The worst kind, dear...
Stinger: You just kill yourself, don't you?
Daiglo: I amuse myself. That is sufficient
And if you really MUST know what you're up against...then know
this...
...the org army stationed in Pays'Hom, one if the strongest armies
in the land, went down without so much as a peep...
And to make matters worse, I've seen enough twisto monstrosities
and freaked-out mutations wandering around to last me a lifetime.
Those critters used to be Orgs, Banori and other citizens of
Wyldern. Now they flesh out the ranks of Hokum's army...
That is, if they're still made of flesh...
To top things off, Hokum's dark army is backed up by all of the
nightmarish creatures he builds in that mountain fortress of his.
Stinger: Hokum sounds like a regular cream puff...
Daiglo: Yeah, he'll make you laugh...until you cry!
Windleaf: (Sigh)
When are we going to hear some good news for a change?
Daiglo: You look pretty tired, honey. Why not crash inside on my floor.
It's the least I can do for the first over-worlders I've ever met!
In the morning you can make your way to Pays'Hom.
The army might be gone, but the folks there are proud, and can
fight with the best of 'em.
You might find some other "heroes" to help you.
Stinger: Yeah, right.
Windleaf: Thank you for your offer, Daiglo. It's most kind.
Daiglo: Surprises me to be offering it, but yeah...it is kind.
Overworlders...most peculiar...
---- Daiglo goes back inside his house. They can follow him.
Daiglo: Well, well. Didn't think I'd be seeing you two "heroes" again.
But now that you're here, I must admit my heart is all a-flutter!
Feel free to flop on my floor. Nothing's as refreshing as a good
night's sleep!
Sleep?
Yes
No.
#Select: Yes.
---- Speak to him again.
Daiglo: Stop hounding me! Sleep if you want to, otherwise hit the road!
---- Check the green thing behind Daiglo.
o-------------------------------o
| A chupta, a device often |
| used in Wyldern as a means of |
| dispensing herbal medicines |
| and remedies. |
o-------------------------------o
===============================================================================
15. PAYS'HOM 0150
===============================================================================
A couple of squares east of Daiglo's Dock, is the glyph of a skull with two
legs.
o--------------------------o
| Org-Ta insignia, usually |
| tattooed on inner thigh. |
o--------------------------o
The next map to the east has a bird that appears upside down.
o--------------------o
| The blackbird of |
| despair, inverse |
| of the bluebird of |
| happiness. |
o--------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Tanglewoods 0151
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They enter the location of Pays'Hom only to find they are in a wood,
and someone is visible though they are hiding behind some trees.
Windleaf: Wait a moment...Something is not right...
Stinger: ...Windleaf...
...since when have things been "right" recently?
I wonder if all those days spent basking in the radiant glow of the
Etherwell didn't singe your gourd...?
Windleaf: Shh... Something is hunting us...
Stinger: Maybe it's that windbag Daiglo?
Seemed like the kind of nut who'd stalk his mother if her were bored
and had the chance...
Windleaf: No, it isn't him. This...feels different...
Stinger: You know, I can't believe we ever got suckered into coming here.
I mean, we're two against an angry...underworld...
Who knows WHAT'S down here?
I'm starting to get sick of being waylaid at every turn.
Windleaf: Stinger. Shh!!! There! Behind the trees!
---- A large female figure comes out from behind the trees and walks
towards them.
Stinger: Oh! This is rich... We've uncovered the lost world of the Butch
Vixens.
You'll be okay, but me, heck, she'll flay the skin off my body and
dance on my...
Female
Org: I have a message for your master...
Only one of you hideous things will survive to take it to him...
Stinger: Our...master...? What ARE you talking about?
Female
Org: Don't insult my intelligence. Your kind has ensnared the Orgs.
Your master forces us to dig in the mines like animals.
Stinger: You have any idea what she's ranting about, Windleaf?
Female
Org: Do not anger me! I can make you bleed and you won't even know it.
Windleaf: Now just a minute.
We aren't the ones who are harming your people...what did you call
them, Horgs?
Female
Org: Orgs...ORGS!
You do not even know the names of the species you annihilate!
Windleaf: Do we look like we could annihilate a species?
Female
Org: Creature, you do not look like you could manage to boil water!
Windleaf: W...what a vicious shrew. Did you hear that, Stinger?
I'll have you know...
---- Some troopers come into view walking down the path towards them.
Trooper: Look at them...
Jabbering away like the fools they are, caught like fish in a trap.
Commando: Don't kill them. Master Hokum needs extra hands in the mines.
---- One of them runs to the side of the group.
Commando: Bind them!
---- The other moves to block the path.
Trooper: We'll take 'em back to the mine and stick 'em with the others!
Windleaf: Lady, you can either fight with us, or against us...
Which side are you really on?
Female
Org: I would never fight with Hokum's Dark Army. For now I must trust
you.
And NEVER call me "lady" again. I am proud of my name. It is...
Quick! What is my name? Accept Jirina.
o------------------------------o
| Jirina has joined the party! |
o------------------------------o
Jirina: Jirina!
Let us hope you fight well, odd ones!
Battle.
Jirina: You fight well. I would know your names.
Stinger: I'm Stinger. My friend's name is Windleaf. You fight pretty good
yourself!
Jirina: I have been picking those...things off one-by-one for days.
Windleaf: You must be exhausted...
Jirina: No. I am strong. But...alone.
Strange as you are... You can fight...use magic. You have power.
I...would ask for an alliance. A pact between us.
Windleaf: That took some effort to say, didn't it?
Jirina: We are a proud people. We...do not ally with outsiders...often.
Which reminds me...
From where in Wyldern do you hail?
Are you golems, sent by the Toparri to aid us?
Windleaf: Um...no... You see...
Stinger: We're...ah...from the world...um...up there. Above...here.
Jirina: You are...from Apunn-sii?
Stinger: Geshundheit.
Windleaf: What does that mean... APunn-sii?
Jirina: "Above the sky..."
Windleaf: I suppose that's right. Yes...we call it Arkose.
Jirina: Outworlders... Like in the faerie tales...
Stinger: Oh, brother...
Jirina: Is it true...? That you live in houses of gold?
Windleaf: Er...no...
Jirina: It is said that your world is ruled by four gods...Gods of Magic...
Windleaf: I think she means the Mage Kings...
Stinger: Right! Uh, they aren't around any more...the Kings...they died.
Jirina: Your gods...have died?!?
Stinger: Well, they weren't really gods...not in the classic sense
anyway...uh...
Windleaf: They were just very powerful men...strong with magic.
Jirina: Ah. Man-gods. Like Hokum.
Stinger: Hokum!
Windleaf: What do you know about him?
Jirina: I know enough. His name is spoken with fear and hatred.
He is the mortal enemy of all who would be free.
Stinger: That about sums it up, yeah.
Jirina: Hokum...is your enemy?
Stinger: Sure is...that's one of the reasons we're here. To see what he's
done... Gauge his strength.
Jirina: Then you are scouts. The vanguard of an outworlder army.
Stinger: Yeah...that's one way of putting it...
Jirina: You would see our plight? You would know the work of Hokum?
Join me and I will show you. You will learn all you need to know.
Stinger: It's a deal.
Windleaf: We need all the help we can get...and so do you, from the sound of
it.
Jirina: Excellent. Welcome. You are now Org-Ta.
Windleaf: Er...what is that, exactly?
Jirina: The Org-Ta are warriors. Protectors of the land.
We are now siblings in war. The war against Hokum.
Stinger: Sounds pretty good to me!
Windleaf: I just hope we're not getting in over our heads.
Jirina: Let us go to Pays'Hom...my village.
Your...education in the ways of Hokum will begin there!
Stinger: Let's do it.
---- They join together as one group.
---- Leave the woods and go back to the world map and attempt to go
north.
Windleaf: I feel that there is a great evil within Pays'Hom.
We can't leave it in this state.
Stinger: (Sigh)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Pays'Hom Village 0152
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------
The Fire Pit
------------
Setting: Down the main track and into a large area where there is a fire pit
smouldering, and three elderly people.
Kohi-ta: They say the only person Hokum is afraid of is some overworlder who
wandered down here years ago.
Now what could an overworlder do that WE can't do?
And where the heck is he at a time like this?
---- Speak to him again.
Kohi-ta: If only I were young again! I'd stick it to Hokum good!
Jirt-ra: Hokum came and said he was our saviour...
Instead he turned out to be a fiend...
He burned a dozen young people a night right here in this pit,
until we finally gave in to his demands...
He harvested organs, and stole skin and bones from the dying right
in front of our eyes...
...said he had a better use for them than their former owners...
---- Speak to him again.
Jirt-ra: Oh! I miss the old days! The young ones! So vital...so full of
joy!
Trahk-ma: Used to be we gathered here every night and sang the oral history
of our people...
Now we ponder our demise...
---- Speak to him again.
Trahk-ma: Only thing we can do is to wait around for someone to help us old
timers...
---------
Storeroom
---------
Setting: The first building on the right is a store room. There is a guard in
here.
Guard: Ahhhhhhrrrrrhggg! Kill! Kill! Kill!
---- Battle.
--------------
The Playground
--------------
Setting: All the way to the left from the main track is a strange playground.
All the things are in a pale grey metal and they almost look as if they have
been made from monster bones. There is a slide, swings and other stuff.
Thiel-ma: If you're here to help, you're too late.
They took 'em all away...
Jirina: The children... All of them?
Thiel-ma: Yup.
Windleaf: Where to?
Thiel-ma: The mines... Hokum put 'em to work digging for his filthy ore...
They'll all die, of course...
The Darg Orgs would just as soon eat 'em as put 'em to work.
Stinger: What kind of low-lives stoop to stealing children?
Thiel-ma: The Hokum kind. His Orgs were pretty rough, too.
Never seen so many kids in one place...
Tried to help but I just got pushed into the dirt. I watched my
granddaughter get stuffed into a sack...
My spirit was stolen along with her...
Windleaf: I'm sorry, old man...I don't know if we can find her, but we're
sure going to look!
Thiel-ma: She's called Thiel-sru. If you find her, tell her I'll be waiting
here for her! Forever, if necessary...
---- Speak to him again.
Thiel-ma: Can't get it out of my head...
...the sight of my granddaughter being kidnapped...
---- Check the play equipment.
o----------------------------o
| Tumbling Rings. |
| Play at your own risk. |
| Caution: leave feet firmly |
| on the ground when using. |
o----------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Monslide (R) |
| Available exclusively via |
| Pays'Hom Distribution. |
| Contact M. Maas. |
o----------------------------o
o----------------------o
| Outhouse hollowed |
| out of a giant g'faa |
| mushroom. |
o----------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| The b'yrte bug, famous in |
| Wyldern's folk imagination, |
| as it leads children away from |
| danger using it's raspy-sounding |
| horn. |
o----------------------------------o
-------------------
The Shrine of Organ
-------------------
Setting: This is a hidden room under the arch. There are some bunk beds and a
table with food on it.
Jirina: I don't believe this!
Stinger: Believe what? That there's no goons in here...?
Jirina: This is the shrine of Organ. It is a holy place...and it has been
defiled!
---- Two Org appear.
Officer: It's our place now, woman! A tribute to OUR god...
Almighty HOKUM!
Guard: Hail the dark one! Long shall he reign!
Jirina: Your vile lives ends now! Let your deaths bring an end to this
blasphemy!
Stinger: Wish you'd stayed in bed today, Windleaf?
Windleaf: With each passing second...
Officer: Stain this place with their blood! Let it be a blessing in our
dark lord's name!
Jirina: NEVER!
Stinger: Here we go again...
---- Battle.
------
Smithy
------
Setting: The house at the top of the ladder contains a furnace, bellows and
anvil. It is, indeed, a smithy.
Rag-smi: Don't tell me you'll be wanting armour.
I've had enough of making things to fit strange bodies...
In fact I'd like you to leave. I don't need your money, and I don't
want you here!
You'll only just cause more suffering... Enough is enough!
GO!
---- Speak to him again.
Rag-smi: What part of "get lost" don't you understand?
--------------------
The Old One's Abode.
--------------------
Setting: This large house is set at the end of a left pathway. Inside is a
large red chair and a table and separate bedroom. "Ye ol Trat-mal" is the old
one: shortened to Trat-mal.
Trat-mal: If you've come to kill me, then be quick about it.
Jirina: Perk up, Elder. It is I, Jirina. I have brought reinforcements.
Trat-mal: Jirina...Jirin-maj's girl?
Jirina: Yes, Elder.
Trat-mal: What can you do in the face of this beast, Hokum? He has stolen
our children, enslaved our men and women...
Jirina, what is it you would do?
And what of these strangers... Overworlders, by the look of them.
Why would you bring then here?
Stinger: Sir, if I may... We are fighting the same enemy.
Hokum has savaged the...uh, overworld...
Hell, he killed my family... And almost everyone in my village...
Windleaf: My entire family as well...
Trat-mal: Then I repeat, what is it you expect to do?
We are defenseless, enslaved... A race of captives... They will not
kill me because those in the mine would revolt.
Worse yet, they let me rot here, as they spirit away my people...
Jirina: You are wrong, Trat-mal. These overworlders...
...they are different.
They can make a difference. I know not why.
Trat-mal: You will do as you see fit. As you always have. And I will
support you.
But work quickly. Time itself is dying. And Hokum is getting
stronger by the day.
Jirina: We will, Elder. Stay well. You will know when we have been
successful.
Trat-mal: So long.. Good luck overworlders. May you avenge your dead...
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Trat-mal: My thoughts are with you! Travel safe!
-----------
The Temple
----------
Setting: This large building is at the end of the right hand pathway under the
arch. There are benches and a raised dais. There is a priestess dressed in
green and gold standing behind a stone altar.
Jirina: Silent as a tomb in here. You can almost hear their gods weeping...
Priestess: Welcome, visitors. You have come...a very long way...from a world
apart...
The gods and goddesses of the soil and rock have sung your praises..
---- Speak to her again;
Priestess: Bask in the emanations of the elements...
Our energy binds to yours. Rock and mineral, bone and blood...
May you survive to hear the laughter of your grandchildren....
------------------
A Humble Dwelling
-----------------
Setting: At the top of the village is Jirina's house. There is a stove and a
table and two stools. The house is set into the rock.
Jirina: This is...was...my home. We can rest here.
I don't want to think about where my family might be...
---- The party joins up again.
-------------------
The Pacifist's Home
-------------------
Setting: A long house situated to the right of Jirina's home. Inside there
are three Org's and a stove, table and stools, and a few small orange pots on a
shelf.
Yam-mar: Oh, Jirina! They are talking about you! You have...changed... So
violent...so angry...
What happened to the sweet girl girl we used to know?
Jirina: She's gone, Yam-mar. Hokum killed her. This Jirina wants to live.
Yam-mar: As do we all, but...
... do we have to go crazy? The citizens are taking up arms.
They're milling about, shouting.
Groups of kids head off into Wyldern on some grisly, horrible hunt.
This is not good. It is not befitting the townspeople of Pays'Hom.
Stinger: Times have changed. Look around you!
Yam-mar: And these overworlders... They look like Hokum's things... Must we
suffer their presence as well?
Jirina: It is their presence that has saved Pays'Hom. And it is time we
all took up the fight.
Evil walks among us now. You cannot sit this one out. It is time
you helped!
Yam-mar: Never. I'll never fight violence with violence!
Stinger: This isn't just violence. It's concentrated evil. And it wants
you dead.
Yam-mar: Well I don't think so. Everything can be discussed.
Windleaf: We've tried. Whatever is out there isn't listening...or isn't
interested in any of us.
Yam-mar: You go your own way now, and leave us in peace. We'll weather this
storm as we see fit...
---- The party regroups. Speak to them all again.
Yam-mar: Leave us in peace.
Yam-fur: Ahhhh! Leave before something awful happens. You're just
encouraging the others to violence. It's disgraceful!
Stop hounding me! Didn't you hear my husband?
Yam-tur: My daddy said not to talk to you. Go away!
Please leave me alone!
---------------
The Stonecutter
---------------
Setting: This house is down the ladders from Jirina's house. There are lots
of stones and carvings in the house and a large easel.
Gan-tor: Ah, Jirina! You've come to visit the old stonecutter, eh?
Jirina: Gan-tor! I see they've left you alone!
Gan-tor: Look at me! What use could I be in the mines?
And if they killed me they'd simply anger their new "slaves..."
So here I sit...staring at a couple of overworlders...
Amazing. I've seen a lot of folks in my life...
Blue Orgs, Banori, Toparri...
...but I've never seen one of THESE before!
Stinger: I'll take that as a compliment.
Gan-tor: Indeed you should, overworlder! And I get the feeling you'll be
seeing a lot of my world.
Stinger: We need some guidance, old man. Through Wyldern to the Great
River...and beyond if you can help us.
Gan-tor: Tell you what. You help out in the mines, and I'll get you where
you want to go.
Too many people suffering around here for me to think of anything
else. Deal?
Jirina: We'll be back! Glad to see you, Gan. Some things...people...
should never change!
Gan-tor: Come see me later. You know I'm never short of stories... Good-bye
for now!
Jirina: Good-bye!
---- The group reforms. Speak to him again.
Gan-tor: Get our people out of the mines, and I'll answer all your questions
about Wyldern!
----------------
Militant's House
----------------
Setting: This small house is at the top of the path. There is no-one there and
just a bed on the floor, table, and stove.
Jirina: This was my mentor's house. Some thought he had a bad attitude, but
he taught me to fight...for everything!
Windleaf: Was he a teacher?
Jirina: No, a militant. He was not well liked.
Stinger: So, you shared a few common traits?
Windleaf: Stinger!
Jirina: No, Windleaf. He is not far off the mark. He taught me to react to
injustice.
He lived the old ways, the ways of earth and stone.
The gods and goddess of Wyldern whispered to him. He was one of the
last of his kind.
He gave me hope. I will continue his teachings. The old ways will
not die. I will not be a humble rocksmith. I will fight!
Stinger: Jeez, sister, keep your underwear on! You're amongst friends, okay.
Jirina: I feel a kind of passion in this house. It feels good.
I would know what happened to the old man...
Windleaf: We'll stop back another time. Come on, let's go!
---- Check the items.
o-------------------------o
| It's cold to the touch. |
| Nobody's been here |
| in quite a while... |
o-------------------------o
o-----------------------o
| Empty ceramic vessel. |
o-----------------------o
----------
Guardhouse
----------
Setting: Various weapons and a couple of Darg Org are inside.
Darg Org: Guwaaah! Enemy! Kill, kill, kill.
Jirina: These guys really cut to the chase... Look alive...!
---- Battle.
---------------
Top of the Path
---------------
Setting: They arrive in an area of huge mountains. Ahead there is a light and
the entrance to the mines.
Stinger: Place as big on the inside as it is out here?
Jirina: Bigger. Prepare yourselves.
Windleaf: We've been in caves before.
Jirina: Were these caves filled with half-alive workers, vicious guards, and
flesh-eating monsters?
Windleaf: Er...not exactly.
Stinger: Rockra would've eaten us if we let him.
Jirina: I'm willing to bet your cave experiences are nothing compared to
this.
Windleaf: Thank you for your...concern.
We're not helping the situation by arguing, though.
Jirina: You are correct. I accept that you are wrong. We can move now.
Windleaf: What?! I never said any such thing!
Stinger: Ladies...
Jirina: Am I wrong? Prove it.
Windleaf: You stuck-up, overbearing...
Stinger: Hey! Shut up! Get a grip!
If this place is half the chamber of horrors she says it is, we need
to get it together...now.
Jirina: Agreed.
Windleaf: Fine.
Stinger: Keerg's teeth, I thought Harv-5 and I were bad!
Windleaf: Don't rub it in, Stinger.
Stinger: Er...yeah. Let's go.
---- They go forwards into the cave ahead.
Jirina: Be cautious. Guards seldom come here, but when they do...
Stinger: Got it. Be quiet and ready to kick ass.
Jirina: ...
Windleaf: You get used to him.
Jirina: Somehow I doubt that. But I will take your word on it.
===============================================================================
16. HEXITE MINES 0160
===============================================================================
--------
Entrance
--------
Setting: A tunnel stretches ahead into darkness. There are wooden props
holding the roof, but the tunnel is wide and there are lights.
Jirina: Be cautious. Guards seldom come here, but when they do...
Stinger: Got it. Be quiet and ready to kick ass.
Jirina: ...
Windleaf: You get used to him.
Jirina: Somehow I doubt that. But I will take your word on it.
---- They join together.
---------------
The Bronze Door
---------------
Setting: To the side of the tunnel there is a locked door.
Stinger: Tricky lock, here.
Jirina: Indeed. It is enchanted.
Stinger: Crap.
Jirina: We need to find a guard that has a key that matches this lock.
Windleaf: Uh, oh. This could take a while.
Jirina: Perhaps. Still...
The door is usually unlocked. A guard must be near, with a work
detail.
Stinger: Great. Let's go find him.
-----------------------------
The Guard with the Bronze Key
-----------------------------
Setting: At the end of the tunnel there is a larger cave where a guard and
two prisoners are found.
Stinger: Well! Looks like you were right, Jirina.
Jirina: I am seldom wrong.
Windleaf: Humph!
Guard: Prisoners! I don't know how you got loose, but...
Stinger: Sling your hole. We're not prisoners, and we're not gonna be.
Jirina: If you are wise, you will surrender.
Guard: Bah!
---- Battle.
Stinger: So much for wise choices. What an idiot...
Jirina: Most of the guards here are like him... Bullies with weapons.
Windleaf: What about these two?
Jirina: You two. You are free. Get out of the mine at once.
Miner: You don't have to tell us twice... Let's get outta here!
---- The two miners slowly walk away.
Windleaf: Practical, aren't they?
Jirina: Yes.
Stinger: Hey...think I found the key...
o-------------- ---o
| Stinger finds |
| the Bronze Key! |
o------------------o
Jirina: Good. Let's go.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. BRONZE ONE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------
The Bronze Door with Key
------------------------
Stinger: Looks like a key matches the lock...
o--------------------o
| The Bronze Lock is |
| opened! |
o--------------------o
Stinger: Excellent. Let's go.
Windleaf: Cells...?
Jirina: This is the overflow area.
When they ran out of room in the regular worker quarters, they
built these cages.
Stinger: Don't look so crowded to me...
Jirina: Some of the workers are on duty now.
Jirina: Others...have passed on.
Stinger: Sorry...
Jirina: Not as sorry as those who run this place...
Windleaf: Let's get these people freed!
---- They join together as a group again.
Left Cell
---------
Setting: Two prisoners stay inside despite the door having been opened.
Stinger: Hey, you're free. Get out of here.
Worker: This...this is a sick jest?
Stinger: No! Come on, you're free!
Worker: I...I dare not leave!
Miner We will be punished!
Stinger: Look, I'm going to punish you if you don't get out of that cell!
Miner: ...
Worker: ...
Stinger: MOVE IT!
Miner: All right...
Worker: Didn't have to yell at us...
Stinger: Give me strength...
---- The two prisoners run away..
Right Cell
----------
Setting: One prisoner is in here.
Stinger: Okay... You're all clear. Take off.
Wroker: I thank you, whoever you are...
Stinger: Let's just say we're friends and leave it at that.
Worker: As you wish.
Stinger: You better get going. No telling when a guard will show up.
Worker: The Org-Ta do not forget those with honour.
---- The Worker walks away.
Storage Room
------------
Setting: The room to the right of the entrance has a number of barrels.
o------------------------------o
| Barrels filled with lye for |
| blanching bones and |
| sipping after meals. |
| Unauthorised consumption |
| will end in immediate death. |
o------------------------------o
Another Storage Room
--------------------
Setting: The room to the far right of the cells.
o----------------------------o
| Crate contains: |
| Processed cheese. |
| requires no refrigeration. |
| Indefinite shelf life. |
| Pretty orange colour. |
o----------------------------o
Guard Quarters
--------------
Setting: Left hand door to the right of the Mess Hall.
Stinger: Hey! Have you guys seen my pet weeble?
Guard: Weeble...? Slaves are not to have pets!
Stinger: Who are you calling a slave.
Guard: If you are not slaves, then you are dead.
Stinger: I guess that remains to be seen.
Guard: My grin will be the last thing you see as you depart the realm of
the living...
Stinger: Same to you, soldier.
---- Battle.
---- Check the wall hanging to the right of the door.
o-------------------------o
| A wall hanging with this |
| hand-stitched message: |
| Bless this humble home! |
o--------------------------o
Guard Quarters
--------------
Setting: Right hand door.
Guard: Look! Entertainers!
Windleaf: What...?!
Guard: Dibs on the one in green!
Stinger: Here it comes...
Guard: Come, strange woman! Dance for Barduk!
Windleaf: I don't dance...
Guard: Bah! If you won't dance, then the big one will!
Jirina: The only dancing I'll be doing will be on your grave.
Guard: Wait a minute...
Stinger: You just figured out we're not from the circus?
Guard: Gaaaarrrrrrrr!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Surprised he didn't ask me to dance...
Jirina: Oh, he would have gotten around to it.
Stinger: Ewwwww.
Windleaf: But, Stinger! You're a good dancer!
Stinger: I don't dance in that hall, girl...
Windleaf: Hee hee hee!
Storage Room
------------
Setting: The room at the back wall has a number of shelves and barrels.
o---------------------------------o
| Bork;s Bucket-O-Chains (R) |
| Multi-purpose chains in a |
| variety of lengths. Use them |
| to bind a prisoner of decorate |
| a room! Packed in a convenient |
| barrel! |
o---------------------------------o
Mess Hall
---------
Setting: The central room in the cell area has a number of guards and tables
laden with food.
Stinger: So this is where all the guards are!
Windleaf: Making sure the food is safe, boys?
Guard: Prisoners! Loose!
Officer: You'll pay for this, slaves!
Jirina: I AM NO ONE'S SLAVE! NO LONGER!
Stinger: Boy, you just won the "I said something stupid" award...
Jirina: AAAAARRRR!
---- Battle.
Jirina: Pigs! Living in luxury while my people work to their deaths!
Windleaf: This troubles me...
Stinger: Yeah...
It'll be a cold day in hell before this goes down on Arkose!
Jirina: My father said as much when the enemy came to Pays'Hom...
Do not think that the people of Apunn-sii will fare better, should
the enemy come.
Stinger: Hey, sister...Apunn-sii's got no worries, cause Hokum's little war
ends here!
Jirina: Proud words. Let us hope they ring true.
Windleaf: We made a lot of noise. Guards could come...
Stinger: Right, right...
---- The party regroups. Check the able at the back of the room.
o-----------------------------o
| Roasted cave beast. |
| Prepared by soaking |
| in lye for 2 weeks to leach |
| any poison from its flesh. |
| Enjoy! |
o-----------------------------o
Bronze Two Access Point
-----------------------
Setting: The room at the furthest left. There are chains hanging down and a
ladder going up.
Stinger: Got enough chains in here?
Guard: Whuuh?
Stinger: Surrender!
Guard: Took the words out of my mouth, prisoner!
Stinger: Surrender? Not going to happen.
Guard: Can you guess my next words?
Stinger: Hmm... 'Prepare to die?'
Guard: You're a savant!
---- Battle.
Stinger: That guy was pretty funny.
Windleaf: Too bad he was pretty stupid as well.
Jirina: This ladder goes to the upper level.
Stinger: Yeah?
Jirina: Remember it's location. We will need to climb it to advance.
Windleaf: Got it.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. LEVEL BRONZE TWO
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stinger: Seems quiet.
Jirina: We're in Bronze Two. Only the most trusted of workers are allowed
here.
Because of this there aren't a lot of guards.
Windleaf: That's good.
Stinger: How do you know so much about this place?
Jirina: I worked in this hole for eight years.
Bronze Two was my last workstation.
Stinger: Makes sense...just curious.
---- The party joins up again.
In the Darkened Passages
------------------------
Silver Door
Stinger: It's locked...
Guess we need a key.
Probably even a silver one.
Vault
-----
Setting: both vaults contain open miner's carts with blue stuff inside.
o------------------------o
| Freshly dug hexite ore |
| smeared with slave |
| blood... |
o------------------------o
Guard Station
-------------
Setting To the right and up from the Vault there are two guards and a strange
machine with two switches.
Guard: W...what are you?! You're not supposed to be in here!
Windleaf: Deal with it!
Guard: You are not of Hokum's army! You are escaped prisoners!
Windleaf: Duh!
Stinger: 'Duh...?' This must be an Enclaan expression. Short...sweet...to
the point...
Guard: Get back to your cells at once!
Stinger: Stop interrupting! We'll get to you in a bit.
Guard: NOW! NOW! NOW!
Windleaf: Stop yapping!
Guard: !!!
Insolent female! I'll scald the flesh from your bones!
Stinger: Hey! You did it! He's furious!
Windleaf: Yay!
Guard: Aaaaarrrrrrr!
---- Battle.
Stinger: What is all this junk?
Windleaf: Looks like something from Eyre.
Stinger: Wonder what it does?
---- Stinger goes to look at the switches.
Stinger: Nuts! I think it's broken.
Jirina: Ahem.
Stinger: What?
Jirina: Those are vault door controls.
Stinger: How do you know?
Jirina: I was made to sweep the floors in here during my time in
captivity...
The guard we killed is the only one who knows the combination.
Stinger: !!!
Why didn't you say so?
Jirina: The two of you were having too much fun being cute.
Far be it for me to interrupt such light-hearted banter with a
tactical suggestion.
Windleaf: Like, "Don't kill the guard!" "The guard is important!"
Stinger: Grrr...
Jirina: Relax. The vaults are not our objective.
Stinger: Overgrown, thick-skulled excuse for a female!
Jirina: I...beg your pardon, tiny man?
Stinger: You heard me. metal-face! I'm fed up with your attitude!
Jirina: Mind your tongue.
Stinger: Shut yer mouth!
Jirina: You are perilously close to the worse beating of your life.
Windleaf: Stop it! Right now!!!
Stinger: She's the one with a bad attitude!
Jirina: His insolence is intolerable. He must be put in his place.
Windleaf: We ought to just hang it up now, before we fall apart...
That's what you want, right?
Stinger: No...I...
Jirina: It's just that he...
Windleaf: Let's just take a deep breath here...settle down a bit...
Stinger: All right. Sorry, Jirina. I'm just a bit haired out at present...
Jirina: An odd expression...but I think I get the gist of it.
I accept your apology, and offer one of my own.
Stinger: Accepted. Let's move on...
Windleaf: (whew) I think we should go.
---- They join up as a group again.
Petit Vault
-----------
Setting: This is just a couple of steps up from the Guard Station. It is a
cave with a wall blocking it to the left.
Stinger: Dead end.
Jirina: ??? This is peculiar.
Windleaf: What do you mean?
Jirina: They...have shored up a wall...
Stinger: Noticed that, did ya?
Jirina: It was not always so. This...is part of the vault.
Stinger: Huh?
Jirina: Looks like they were expanding...adding a new room.
Windleaf: Probably for more prisoners.
Jirina: In any case, the workmanship is shoddy.
Anyone with a pick-axe could wear it down, in time.
Stinger: Hmm...or a bomb...cannon...spell...
Windleaf: I hear you.
Let's see how this works!
o-----------------------------------o
| Windleaf casts the Shatter Spell! |
o-----------------------------------o
Stinger: One-Woman wrecking machine...
Windleaf: All in a day's work.
Jirina: I'm quite impressed. You can be quite destructive when you desire.
Windleaf: Comes in handy sometimes.
---- The party reforms.
Large Cavern to the Right
-------------------------
Setting: a large cave to the right with a number of workers, and two guards.
Windleaf: This place... It's enormous!
Jirina: Rich with hexite... Ravaged in Hokum's name.
Guard: Looks like trouble.
Stinger: Master of the understatement!
Guard: Look...just go back to your cell and sleep it off, okay?
Jirina: You see, reasonable. I offer you the chance to surrender.
Guard: ...
All right, you asked for it grunts.
This is gonna hurt you more than it will me!
Windleaf: Somehow I doubt that...
---- Battle.
Stinger: Buncha zealots...
Windleaf: Let's get the workers out of here.
Miner 1: You...killed the guards...
Miner 2: They did! They killed them!
Stinger: Please tell me you don't have a problem with that.
Miner 1: Orgfah's Name! Of course I don't!
Miner 2: Me neither!
Miner 1: What took you rebels so long?!
Jirina: That's none of your concern.
Windleaf: Um...you guys had better head out.
Miner 1: Hoody hoo! Free at last!
Miner 2: Pinch me...I think I'm dreaming...
Jirina: Go! Now! Stick to the outer corridors!
Stinger: Head for the woods when you get out.
---- The miners run out of the cave.
Stinger: Think they'll make it?
Windleaf: Hope so...
Jirina: If anything, they'll be a distraction for other, more intelligent
escapees.
Stinger: You can be real cold, y'know?
Jirina: ...
It is a survival mechanism.
Windleaf: I think I heard something... We better move.
Silver Door
------------
Setting: Up from the cave and west and then north, there is another locked
silver door.
Stinger: It's locked...
Guess we need a key.
Probably even a silver one.
Healing Waters
---------------
Setting: This cavern is coloured pink and blue and there is a small lake.
Stinger: Nice and quiet.
Jirina: The healing waters are here.
Windleaf: That sounds nice!
Jirina: We would work for hours... Until we couldn't stand... then they
would bring us here.
We were forced to drink the waters. Each time, our energy would be
restored. And then, we would be put to work again.
Windleaf: How horrible!
Jirina: Our "rest periods" were for the guards watching us more than
anything else.
When they grew bored, they would return us to a sleeping chamber.
Stinger: Those days will soon pass. For now, let's have a drink...
Jirina: Agreed.
Stinger: To victory!
Jirina: I'll drink to that.
Windleaf: Cheers!
---- o----------------------------o
| The healing waters restore |
| the party! |
o----------------------------o
Stinger: Let's get back to work.
Dog House
---------
Setting: An empty cave that is purple and Pink.
Stinger: Deserted...
Jirina: They got rid of the dogs.
Windleaf: Dogs...?
Jirina: Yes. This cave is where the dogs were kept.
Stinger: Whew! Glad they're gone! I hate to fight dogs!
Jirina: They were nice dogs. I shall miss them.
Stinger: You're gonna miss a bunch of dogs?!
Jirina: You wouldn't understand.
Stinger: Yep. That I wouldn't.
---- They rejoin as a group.
Red and Green Cavern
---------------------
Setting: A huge cavern that has a green floor and red rocks. There are two
children waiting there.
Boy: Oh, no!
Girl: Ugly monsters!
Stinger: Gimme a break!
Windleaf: Ssh! They're frightened...
Jirina: Be at ease, children. We are Org-Ta.
Boy: Mum says there are no such thing as Org-Ta!
Girl: They aren't real!
Jirina: Not true. Look at my tunic... My visor.
Girl: Those runes...
Boy: A battle visor...
Jirina: Now do you believe?
Boy: Well...
Girl: I do I do!
Windleaf: What are you children doing there?
Boy: Hiding...from creepy things like you only worse...
Girl: We're going to run away!
Stinger: Kids have guts.
Girl: We put dead bodies in our beds to take our place.
Boy: We got this far...
Jirina: Clever. Now you will go further.
Stick to the outer corridors. Hide when you hear anyone.
Girl: We will!
Boy: Long life the Org-Ta!
---- The children run out of the cavern.
Jirina: Reminds me of myself at that age.
Stinger: I'll bet.
---- They join up again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. LEVEL ONE BRONZE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Down the ladder from Bronze One Access Point, they arrive in a small
cave with some weapons hanging on a wall.
Stinger: Where the heck are we now?
Jirina: Bronze one, work area. Low security.
Windleaf: There's a change.
Jirina: There's bound to be workers here. Some may be able to help us.
Stinger: The more, the merrier! Let's move out.
---- Check the weapons.
o-----------------------o
| Very, very well-used |
| weapons, dripping |
| with the blood of the |
| innocent... |
o-----------------------o
Last Door on the far Right
--------------------------
Stinger: Hmmm... It looks like it needs a special key.
Sleeping Cells: Middle Door
---------------------------
Setting: A sleeping area with cells in the wall. There is no-one here.
Stinger: Hmm... Kind of reminds me of Eyre...
Windleaf: What is this place? A morgue?
Jirina: Not exactly. It's a sleeping chamber.
Though, for some, it was a final resting place.
Windleaf: I see.
Jirina: Many a weary worker came here to rest, only to never rise again.
Windleaf: Let's make sure that never happens again.
Stinger: Y'know...we could get a little rest here.
Jirina: We'll need to be careful...but you are correct.
Windleaf: Well? Shall we get some rest or move on?
Rest
Move on.
#Select Rest.
Work Area
---------
Setting: An area with three exits and two miners and two guards waiting.
Stinger: All right! We finally found the party!
Guard: Huh...?!
Miner: Who're they?
Miner: Beats me.
Stinger: Where's the refreshment table? I'm thirstier than Keerg's camel!
Foreman: They're lunatics! They've got the madness!
Guard: Get back to your cell! All of you!
Windleaf: Afraid we can't do that.
Guard: Why not?!
Windleaf: We're not prisoners! We're...assassins!
Guard: Then prepare to die!
Foreman: Take cover!
Miner: These fools are gonna kill us all!
---- Battle.
Stinger: That wasn't so bad...
Foreman: Well, there's a room full of 'em up there!
Go get them too, if you're so dang tough!
Stinger: Keep your britches on, smiley. We'll get to it.
Miner: Don't I know you, woman?
Jirina: Yes. I am Jirina. Worker 42J-X. From Bronze Two.
Miner: Thought so. You look better cleaned up.
Jirina: Er...thank you.
Miner: You gonna kill us?
Foreman: Of course they're not gonna kills us, moron!
Miner: Don'tcha think they'd have "done" us by now if they intended to?
Miner: Oh, yeah I guess so.
Foreman: Those look like Org-Ta runes on your tunic, Jirina. This a raid?
Jirina: You are astute, Foreman. Yes. We aim to liberate the mine.
Foremen: The three of you? You're crazy!
Miner: No crazier than us.
Stinger: Oh, yeah? You boys up to something?
Miner: Yeah! We dug a secret tunnel an' everything!
Foreman: Well, I guess the cat's out of the bag now...
Miner: There's a hidden entrance to our tunnel down on the south wall.
Foreman: It leads to a closed-off cave. We've got a cache of home-made
weapons there.
Stinger: Well, if you boys are up to making a fuss...
Miner: There's no time like the present! Let's meet in the cave and hatch
some plans!
Jirina: Agreed.
---- The three miners run off to the south west of the area.
Stinger: Think we can trust those guys?
Windleaf: They seem earnest.
Jirina: They are reliable. Let's get going.
---- They join up again.
Guard Room
----------
Setting: The middle door of the Work Area reveals some guards in a cave with
tables and chairs.
Stinger: Boy, that foreman wasn't kiddin'!
This place is full of guards...and they're all an ugly bunch of
sissies!
Windleaf: He didn't mention anything about ugly sissies...
Stinger: We gotta work on your taunting skills, girl.
Guard: Intruders! Freeze where you stand or face the consequences!
Officer: The woman is Org-Ta! It's a raid!
Windleaf: My, but that one's quick!
Jirina: Yes. Kill him first.
Officer: Cease this foolish prattle! Seize them...AT ONCE!
---- Battle.
Stinger: This isn't gettin' any easier, Jirina...
Windleaf: He's right.
Maybe we should withdraw... Rest up and come back with help.
Jirina: No. We must advance. If we leave, the security will only tighten.
No alarms have sounded. We are still safe.
Stinger: Okay... Let's get going before things change!
---- The group reform.
-----------------------
Other Side of the Gorge
-----------------------
Setting: After following the miners the group are now in a new cave with
someone dead on the ground and monsters waiting to attack. The Captain is blue
and has horns!
Stinger: What the...?!
Jirina: Treachery! We are betrayed! The miners led us into an ambush!
Captain: Oh, don't be so hard on them! These dead fools betrayed no one.
Windleaf: Y...you slaughtered them?
Guard: Sure. We've known of their little scheme for some time.
Captain: Had to make an example of them, you know?
---- Stinger walks forward to inspect the body.
Stinger: Now there's a good idea.
---- Jirina also walks forward to stand beside Stinger, on his left.
Jirina: Indeed. I think you're on to something. Prepare to die, grunt!
---- As the Captain speaks again Windleaf moves forward to stand next to
Stinger on his right.
Captain: I'll have that insolence beaten out of you, woman. Guards!
To arms!
Jirina: You have a big nose, Captain. I'm thinking you'll look better with
a fat lip!
Captain: Attack! I want them alive!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Too bad about the miners...
Jirina: At least they died fighting.
Windleaf: Did you hear that?
Stinger: Uh...yeah...
---- There is a faint grumbling growling sound.
Jirina: Oh, no...
WE HAVE TO GET OUT OF HERE!
Stinger: What the...?
Jirina: I'VE HEARD THAT SOUND BEFORE!
IT MEANS...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. RIVER LEVEL ACCESS POINT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The floor gives way beneath their feet and they fall to land on a
rock in the middle of a river.
Stinger: (Cough...cough) Yeeeeooouch!
Uggggh...I think I ate face full of dirt...
Windleaf: I...s everyone okay?
Jirina: For...future reference...
...that rumbling sound often presides a cave-in!
Stinger: Actually I already figured that out...
Thanks anyway.
---- The party regroups.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. LEVEL SILVER ONE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: At the top of the ladder there are bright blue rocks and dull yellow
walls.
Stinger: Well, you're the expert, Jirina...
Any idea where we are?
Jirina: Hmmm...I believe we're in Silver One.
Windleaf: Closer and closer...
Jirina: Be advised. The patrols are more frequent here.
We can expect stronger resistance.
Stinger: How about some good news for a change?
Jirina: I'm beginning to find you less irritating.
Windleaf: !!!
Stinger: Well, coming from you that's a huge compliment.
Jirina: As you say.
Windleaf: Come on, Stinger...
...before your head is too big to fit through doors.
---- They regroup.
Dead End
--------
Setting: Another empty cavern.
Jirina: More raw ore... And no workers.
Windleaf: This makes me nervous.
Stinger: Hey...no fights, no workers to worry about...
This is a good thing in my book!
Dead End
--------
Setting : At the far side of Silver One there is a cavern.
Jirina: This is strange. There's a fresh vein here. A wealth of raw ore
to be mined.
Windleaf: No guards... No miners...
Stinger: Yeah... Where is everyone?
Jirina: The general lack of workers... Gradual withdrawal or troops...
Something big is going on. Hokum must be up to something...
Stinger: Well, that's a given. But what?
Jirina: I'll wager we'll find out when we get to Gold Two.
Windleaf: Let's hustle, then.
Silver Two Access Point.
-----------------------
Setting: A room bathed in green light with a table and a jar .
o-------------------------------o
| Empty elderberry wine bottle. |
o-------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. LEVEL SILVER TWO
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A cavern with chains hanging and blue rocks, and pale blueish light.
Stinger: Creepy...
Windleaf: It's so dark... Gloomy...
Jirina: We like it that way. Bright light is...uncomfortable.
Stinger: Ah...so the visor's not just for looks.
Jirina: No. It is not.
Stinger: Hmm. We might be at a disadvantage here, Windleaf.
Windleaf: We'll manage. Come on.
Stinger: ...
Yes, ma'am!
---- They group together.
Treasure Room
-------------
Setting A silver blue coloured cave, with a couple of large crates and a
treasure chest.
Windleaf: Goodness!
Stinger: Yeah...what she said.
Jirina: Hmmm...wonder where the guards are?
Stinger: Who cares? Fill your pockets!
Windleaf: I see your point, Jirina.
Stinger: Oh, all right. Yes, it's odd that there's no guards.
Jirina: You can stuff your pockets now.
Stinger: Thanks, mommy.
---- The group reforms.
Work Area
---------
Setting: At the far end of the first passage way is a large work area with
various workers and mining carts.
Foreman: Worlds above!
Miner: You said it, pal. Looks like it's time to check out!
Jirina: Settle down. We're not here to hurt you.
Foreman: Oh, yeah? What ARE you here for, then? the view?
Stinger: We're here to set you guys free.
Windleaf: And to make sure this doesn't happen again.
Foreman: Oh, brother. They're rebels.
Miner: Fine by me! I hate this place!
Jirina: Where are the guards? The keepers?
Foreman: Strangest thing, that.
Miner: Lately,...the guards have been...preoccupied.
Jirina: Rebel raids?
Foreman: Hardly. More like raids on the treasury.
Miner: By the officers.
Stinger: Oh, reeeeaaally?
Foreman: Rumour has it there's gonna be a pullout soon.
Miner: Lotta guards already gone. Worker drops, no one replaces him.
Foreman: The officers have been hanging around in Silver One a lot...
Jirina: We just came from there...There were no officers around.
Miner: Were you on the front or back side?
Jirina: Back...why?
Foreman: That explains it. They hang out on the front side.
Miner: I heard some guards talkin'...
They think the officers are building a treasure stash there.
Foreman: Especially the Captains.
Miner: At least the Bronze and Silver Captains...
Jirina: The Bronze captain won't be doing anything anymore.
Miner: How come?
Stinger: Get a clue, buddy. Why do YOU think?
Miner: Oh...
Jirina: We need to check this out.
Stinger: We do? Why do we care if the officers are greedy?
Jirina: Because Greevus, the Captain for this area, may be there.
Greevus has the only Silver Key.
Windleaf: Without that , we can't get to Gold level
Stinger: Ah, yeah. That's a good reason.
Foreman: Well, it's easy to get to that part of Silver One.
Miner: Just follow the path here. Leads to the ladder goin' down there.
Jirina: Right. Thank you for the information.
Stinger: If I were you, I'd get outta here.
Windleaf: Things could get rough very soon.
Miner: Been a long time comin'.
Foreman: Right...let's get out of here.
---- The two of them leave.
Jirina: Let's move out.
---- The party join up again.
---- Speak to the two people left
Worker: I ain't movin'!
Jirina: What...?
Worker: I heard all that anarchy you were talkin' with those guys!
Jirina: And?
Worker: I think you're all mad!
The guards could be here at any moment!
If I run, I could get killed!
Jirina: You could get killed if you stay behind. too.
Worker: I'll take my chances. Now leave me alone!
I don't want people thinking I'm on your side!
---- Speak to him again.
Worker: You again?
I told you... I ain't interested!
Dirt Girl: Hello.
Jirina: You should go someplace safe. ti could get real dangerous soon.
Dirt Girl: I dunno... the whole mine's dangerous.
I think I'll stick around.
Jirina: ...
Dirt Girl: I know you mean well. But I'm small.
I can't fight, and I can't run fast.
I'll wait until someone big comes for me.
Jirana: Very well... Stick close to an adult, okay?
Dirt Girl: Sure.
Jirina We have to go.
Dirt Girl: Bye.
---- Speak to her again:
Dirt Girl: Got some dirt to move. Bye!
Guard Station
-------------
Setting: An area with two guards
Sergeant: ...so, I sees the Cap'n goin' down to Silver One and he's loaded
with booty!
Guard: They're cuttin' out with the money and leavin' us for the rebels!
Jirina: That's right.
Guard: Oh, no! It can't be!
Sergeant: ORG-TA! Already?!
Stinger: Uh, huh. Time for you boys to retire.
Sergeant: We're still soldiers, boys. We got a duty t'do.
Guard: Right, sarge! Let's get'em!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Looks like trouble in paradise...
Windleaf: I'll say.
Jirina: If there's any truth to this rumour...
Stinger: We'll need to hurry up. Right?
Jirina: Precisely. A riot could break out. Guards...could commit
atrocities...
Windleaf: It's not going to happen, Jirina. Count on it.
---- They regroup.
Lock up Chamber
--------------
Setting: This area has some sleeping cells and a child and two adults.
Krysti: Eeeeee!
Mikal: Get behind me...
...and get ready to fight!
---- Krysti gets behind him.
Dar: We are ready, husband.
Jirina: There's no need for that.
Mikal: Says you. You're the ones with weapons
Dar: Demons! Freaks!
Stinger: Man, everyone thinks we're monsters!
It's gettin' old!
I risk my neck, and everywhere I go, it's "Eeeeek! A monster!"
Windealf: Settle down, Stinger. People were just as nervous around Harv-5!
Stinger: Yeah...I suppose.
Windleaf: Remember...down here, we're aliens...
It's easy for people to think we're monsters.
Mikai: Who...who are you people?
Jirina: I am Jirina, of the Org-Ta. These are my soldiers.
Krysti: Are they from Apunn-sii?
Windleaf: Why, yes we are.
Krystl: I thought so! You look like the pictures in the storybook!
Dar: I...I thought Apunn-sii was a fable...
Stinger: Don't feel bad. We thought the same about Wyldern.
Mikai: Why are you here?
Jirina: We mean to shut down the mine. Permanently.
Mikal: At last...!
Dar: What can we do to help?
Jirina: Get out of here. Defend yourself if necessary.
Mikal: But there are so many guards.
Stinger: Pal, we've been killing every guard we run into.
And a lot of guards seem to have already left the mines.
Windleaf: The situation could get worse. If a riot starts...
Mikal: I understand. We will go.
DAr: Thank you...
Krystl: Bye!
---- They all walk out of the area.
Jirina: I've been waiting for this day for years...and yet, now...
Our victory seems hollow...
Windleaf: I don't think we've won the war yet! Just hang on for a spell.
Stinger: Yeah...in the meantime, this place looks pretty cosy.
Jirina: Your point...?
Stinger: I'm saying we could take a rest here if we wanted to.
Get it?
Jirina: I see. You are right.
Windleaf: Shall we take a breather?
Yes
No.
Guard Post
----------
Setting: The next doorway down from the Lockup Chamber is a Guard Post.
Officer: ...so stick by me, and you'll be rich. Deal?
Guard: You got it, Sir. We're your men.
Stinger: Oooh, isn't that just dandy? Loyalty for sale!
Officer: Rebels!
The filthy Org-Ta dare to show their faces at last!
Guard: Don't worry about them, sire. We'll take care of 'em.
Jirina: Mercenary dogs. Prepare to breathe your last!
---- Battle.
Jirina: So...
The officers ARE up to something.
Stinger: Must be tough to have to buy the loyalty of your own men.
Windleaf: I wonder what the deal is here?
Stinger: Maybe the mine has already been vacated! Maybe this gig is over!
Windleaf: ...
I don't think so.
Stinger: Well...
It might be the case!
---- Check the orange rusted switch.
o------------------------o
| Nasty, old, completely |
| rusted-out switch. It |
| once operated the |
| old mine door. |
o------------------------o
Lock Up Chamber
---------------
Setting: The next door down from the Guard Post is an empty Lock Up Chamber.
Windleaf: Slave quarters... But no slaves...
Jirina: I...lived here for a while...and...oh...
Stinger: What? What's wrong?
Jirina: So many died... My friends... Good people...
It isn't fair...
...
Windleaf: Jirina?
Jirina: Please... I need a moment...
Stinger: Sure...take your time.
Stinger: This ain't good. If she cracks on us we'll never find our way
outta here.
Windleaf: Grow up, Stinger! She was a prisoner here!
She must have seen a lot of people come through here...seen many of
them die in the mines...
Stinger: Yeah, I guess so...
Didn't mean to be uh, insensitive or something...
Windleaf: No, with you it just comes naturally.
Stinger: ...
---- Jirina returns to speak to the join them again.
Jirina: I am ready to continue.
Stinger: Hey... Things'll work out...
Jirina: I know. One way or another. There will be a reckoning.
Windleaf: Um...right. We just want you to know we're in this together.
Stinger: To the end...
Jirina: You are indeed good friends. Thank you.
Stinger: Come on. Let's keep going.
---- They join up again.
Goody Room
----------
Setting: An empty cave with a couple of large crates.
o----------------------o
| Back issues of |
| Spelunker's Monthly. |
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. LEVEL SILVER ONE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: At the bottom of the ladder they arrive at an empty cave
Windleaf: No guards...
Stinger: Good I need a rest.
Jirina: I do not know this section well.
I hope the tip that miner gave us is correct.
Stinger: Me too. If the Sector Captain's the only guy with the key...
Windleaf: And he's not down here...
Jirina: Right. It will be difficult reaching the Gold section.
Stinger: To say the least.
Jirina: Have faith. I believe we can trust the miner.
The information is sleazy enough to be believable.
---- They join up again as a group.
Treasure Room (West)
-------------
Stinger: That's a lotta hexite.
Jirina: Riches beyond belief...
Windleaf: It's pretty.
Jirina: How many have died to reach these lodes?
Stinger: Uh...isn't that a pool of healing waters over there?
Windleaf: Yes! Let's have a drink!
---- o----------------------o
| The soothing waters |
| restore the party! |
o----------------------o
---- This is a save point.
Treasure Room (North 1)
-------------
Stinger: WHOA! Look at all this loot!
Jirina: Ssh! you'll attract attention.
Stinger: Looks like that miner was right.
Windleaf: Someone's built quite a stash here for themselves.
Jirina: Disgusting. A fortune built on blood and pain.
Stinger: Isn't that how all fortunes are made?
Jirina: Perhaps in Apunn-sii. Not in Wyldern.
Stinger: Uh, huh...
Windleaf: Save it for later.
If this loot is here, then the Sector Captain may be close.
Stinger: Right. Let's find out.
---- They join together again.
Treasure Room East
------------------
Stinger: Well, it looks like people WERE working here...
Jirina: Indeed. And then suddenly stopped.
Windleaf: Maybe Hokum's got all the hexite he needs?
Jirina: ...
It's possible...
Stinger: If that's so, it won't be long before he makes a move...
Jirina: A big move. Perhaps his final move.
Windleaf: Gulp.
Stinger: Well!
I'm gonna have a drink of the ole healing waters here and try not to
scream...
Windleaf: Good idea.
Jirina: Very good idea.
o---------------------------------------o
| The healing waters restore the party! |
o---------------------------------------o
Treasure Room North 2
----------------------
Stinger: Jeez...I could retire nicely with all this booty.
WIndleaf: We could buy an island. Lie in the sun all day.
Jirina: Then Hokum's legions would find you and raze your island.
Stinger: (sigh) Yup. Right to the last bobonut tree.
Windealf: Nice while it lasted, huh?
Jirina: You have strange ways in Apunn-sii...
Windleaf: Some are stranger than others...
Stinger: All right, already... Let's get going.
An Old Aquaintance
-------------------
Setting: A cave with a few mining carts and some Darg Org and the Captain
Greevus.
Stinger: Well, well, well. What have we here!
Jirina: Sector Captain Greevus. What a surprise.
Windleaf: You know this man?
Captain: Oh, yes. Jirina and I have... quite a history.
Stinger: This is going to get ugly, I know it.
Jirina: You foul worm...
Captain: Why, Jirina used to shine my boots! Press my uniform! Cook my
food!
Yes, she was a little charmer...but...
...well, I'm not one to kiss an tell... Heh heh heh...
Jirina: Slime! Offal!
Captain: Such vile words you use for me...now.
It wasn't always so...was it?
Stinger: You know, buddy...if I were you, I'd keep my sick mouth shut.
Windleaf: I think you've done enough damage for one lifetime...
Captain: Yes? Is that right?
Three would-be assassins against us. Hmm...
Jirina: She's right, Greevus. It ends now.
Captain: You're right. For you and your friends. Kill them...all three of
them.
---- Battle.
Jirina: At last...vengeance... Though my heart will never be whole...
Windleaf: Are you gonna be okay, Jirina?
Jirina: Yes, and... Thank you.
Stinger: For what?
Jirina: For helping me realise my revenge against...him.
Stinger: Hey, warsister. That's what this is all about.
People helping people flush scum bags like him down the old chute!
Windleaf: Hey, look! I think I see the Silver Key!
---- She stoops to pick it up from the ground.
Windleaf: Bingo!
o--------------------o
| Windleaf finds the |
| Silver Key! |
o--------------------o
Stinger: Good eye, Windleaf. Let's get going.
Jirina: With this, we can enter the Gold level...
We can finish this fight...once and for all.
---- They regroup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. FINDING GOLD ONE: No talking!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. LEVEL GOLD ONE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: After climbing the second ladder up from the river, they arrive at a
small cave with sparkling blue walls.
Jirina: Gold One. We're almost there.
Windleaf Still seems like we've got a lot to do.
Stinger: Can't wait to find a nice soft bed...
Jirina: Rest later. The time to move is now!
Stinger: You remind me of my step-father...
---- They regroup. Check the bedding.
o----------------------o
| Pest-ridden bedding. |
o----------------------o
Crematory
---------
Setting: This area is full of a red light and there are miners carts and a
worker. There is a pile of something with a pitchfork in it.
Stinger: (gag)
Whu...what's th...that...
Jirina: Bodies. They're burning the dead here.
Windleaf: Oh...that pile...I...I'm going to...
Worker: Hey! You can't be in here!
Jirina: We can and we are.
Worker: O...okay... But my boss won't like it!
Jirina: Your superior is the least of your worries now.
Worker: Gulp.
Jirina: When did this begin? This...burning?
Worker: About a week ago... They told us to stop burying the dead.
We aren't allowed to perform death rites...
Jirina: This...this is obscene! The dead are being desecrated!
Worker: At first, no one would work here. Then they started killing
people...
I know the dead curse me... But I took the job so others could
live...
Jirina: Get out. Now.
Worker: But...
Jirina: I will kill you with my bare hands if you stay.
Worker: A...as you wish...
---- He leaves down to the left of the screen.
Stinger: Say! Can we leave now?!
jirina: Yes. I can bear the sight of this no longer.
Windleaf: T...that makes three of us.
Jirina: This will be avenged...I swear it!
---- Go to the left and check the large mound.
o-----------------------------o
| Sickly-sweet smelling mound |
| of...former miners... |
o-----------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. LEVEL GOLD TWO
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gold Two Access Point
----------------------
Setting: A cave with some blue pots and red bedding.
Jirina: So far, so good.
Stinger: End of the line, right?
Jirina: Yes. The Minelord is near.
When he dies, the enemy will have no choice but to withdraw.
Windleaf: I don't get it... Couldn't they just get another person to run
things?
Jirina: No. The Minelord is more than a ruler.
Stinger: Huh?
Jirina: The Minelord ...is needed to process hexite.
It is a creature that refines the hexite ore...in it's organs.
Stinger: You're kidding!
Windleaf: Eewwwww.
Jirina: What now takes days will take years without the Minelord.
Stinger: This is gonna be a big stinky, slimy mess...I just know it.
Jirina: Consider the alternatives. A life of slavery...
...or worse.
Windleaf: We're with you...just tell us these things in advance next time,
okay?
Jirina: Very well.
---- Check the table.
o--------------------------o
| Remnants of a card game. |
o--------------------------o
Executive Suite
---------------
Setting: There are some sleeping bunks in a wall and a couple of people here.
Director: Yes? Can we help you. prisoners?
Stinger: Sure thing. Stop breathing for, oh, 10 minutes or so.
Supervisor:Who's your foreman? Who sent you here?
Director: Watch your tongue!
Jirina: You imbeciles...
Windleaf: We're not slaves!
Director: Well, you're certainly not guards.
Supervisor:Please don't tell me you're ...
...foremen!
Stinger: Get it straight...We're here to shut this place down!
Supervisor:This one's inhaled too many fumes.
Director: I'll get someone up here to take care of this...
Jirina: Stop where you stand.
Supervisor:T...they're serious!
Stinger: Dead serious.
---- The two people turn to talk to each other.
Supervisor:Defend me!
Director: YOU defend ME!
---- Battle.
Jirina: Once, all worker dwellings looked like this.
Clean, comfortable... Warm and livable.
Stinger: Well, those two won't be living in luxury any more.
Windleaf: None of them have a Gold Key. We'll have to keep looking.
Stinger: Terrific.
Well, while we're here... We might as well get a little rest.
Jirina: Hmmm...this place should be safe for a small period.
Windleaf: Fine by me, Shall we rest for a bit?
Yes
No.
o----------------o
| Party restored |
| through sleep! |
o----------------o
Mess Hall
---------
Setting: A room with some dead Orgs, and in a terrible mess. There is blood
on the floor, dripping from hanging meat, broken pink plates, green stuff
spilling out of a large pot, general mayhem.
Stinger: Ugh!
Windleaf: More dead guards?
Jirina: The treachery of the enemy knows no bounds.
Windleaf: It seems like we stepped into the middle of a war...
Jirina: Yes...between factions of Hokum's troops.
Stinger: Looks like the old saying is true...
'No honour among thieves.'
Jirina: Indeed.
Just as it should be.
---- The party joins together again.
o---------------------o
| A moss cooker. |
| The fire underneath |
| has been out for |
| quite some time. |
o---------------------o
o-------------------------o
| Unwashed plate of moss. |
o-------------------------o
GentleOrg's Club
----------------
Setting: A place for Orgs to relax. There are brightly coloured beds and a
central green patterned carpet. There is a dead Org and two females.
Singer: Eeeek!
Stinger: Wow! These two must've killed that guy!
Jirina: Well done, sisters.
Singer: We didn't kill him.
Dancer: He just burped and died!
Singer: Don't hurt us, please!
Windleaf: Relax!
Jirina: We won't hurt you.
Dancer: Y...you mean you're not guards?
Stinger: More like guard removers if you ask me...
Windleaf: Of course we're not guards. We're here o help you.
---- Two guards enter the room.
Dancer: Are they here to help too?
Guard: What the...?
Stinger: Dingbat! Those ARE guards!
Dancer: Sorry! You're all kinda funny lookin' to me!
Stinger: This is nice.
Guard: Assassins! Alert! Alert!
Jirina: We'd better shut him up...
---- Battle.
Singer: That was icky.
Dancer: You're like, so brutal!
Stinger: Oh, for Keerg's sake...
Jirina: Harlots! Front and centre!
Stinger: Hey!
Dancer: We're not 'harlots,' thank you very much. We're entertainers.
Stinger: Yeah, whatever. Just get outta here. Now!
Singer: Huh...?
Jirina: You must leave here. Head for safety.
Dancer: Uh...okay. You...sure you don't want a show?
Stinger: Will it take long?
Windleaf: Stinger!
Jirina: Begone, you fools!
---- The two women leave.
Windleaf: Didn't know you were such a...horndog, Stinger.
Stinger: Lighten up, will ya? There's nothin' wrong with me.
Jirina: Says you. Let's get moving.
---- They join together again.
---- Check the beds.
o----------------------o
| Curiously colourful |
| bedding for a...cave |
| dwelling. |
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Rookery
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A very odd room with dangling orange cords and blood on the floor and
metal plate things lining either side of the pathway.
Stinger: Keerg's blood!
Windleaf: What is this place?
Jirina: I...I do not know. I have never been here.
Stinger: There are...people in those things...
Windleaf: Maybe they're being tortured?
Jirina: Or perhaps this is where Hokum is...cooking up his army?
At any rate, this place smells, and the people are suffering. Time
to put an end to...all of it.
---- They join together again.
Storage
-------
Setting: A storage area with crates and barrels.
---- Check the various things.
o---------------------o
| Old wigs, costumes, |
| jewlry and hats. |
o---------------------o
o------------------------------o
| Tydee-Hex (R) |
| Removes hard to clean |
| stains from ingots of pure |
| Hexite (or your money back)! |
o------------------------------o
o------------------------o
| Kulligann (R) |
| 'Keg-O-Water' |
| Filtered spring water. |
o------------------------o
Guard Post
----------
Setting: A guard room with a red mattress on the floor and some blue bottles.
Stinger: Watch out! There's a guard!
Windleaf: I think he's asleep.
---- Jirina walks forwards to the guard, who is standing still.
Jirina: Pheeeew! He smells rotten.
---- The other two join here.
Stinger: (cough) You got that right!
Windleaf: What's wrong with him? Is he poisoned?
Stinger: Ha ha! Nah. He's just 'rotten drink!'
Binge of a lifetime, I'll wager.
Guard: Mmmzzzz...
G'way... Try'n t'sleep hyar...
Windleaf: I think we can leave this one be.
Jirina: Yes.
Guard: Momma... Gimme s'more moss... Mwuhhum...mmmm...
Stinger: Moss, huh? Sounds delightful. Lots of nutritional value...
Jirina: Moss is delicious. It's what we eat down here. A lot.
Stinger: Look, I'm not slamming it. I mean, up top, some people eat leaves
and stuff.
Jirina: Enough banter about food.
Stinger: Come to think of it, I haven't had a good meal in a long time...
Jirina: We will feed you later. Let us go.
---- Speak to him again.
Jirina: Wonder if he's still drunk...
Guard: Sh...shaddup...sleepin'...
Jirina: Ugh! Still drunk...and worse.
Guard: G'way... Try'n t'sleep hyar...
---- Check the items in the cave.
o--------------------------o
| Empty moss wine bottles. |
o--------------------------o
o------------------------o
| Pest infested bedding. |
o------------------------o
Room of Infernal Machines
-------------------------
Setting: Strange orange pipes and machines are in here, and three Darg
Scientists.
Jirina: You! You did this!
Scientist: Guard! Get rid of this filthy minx.
---- Battle with one Darg Org guard.
Jirina: Explain this. Explain this to me.
Scientist: I doubt your mind could handle the full scope of our work...
Jirina: Talk, NOW, or die!
Scientist: ...but I shall endeavour to put it in layman's terms.
Doctor: This machinery, and the alchemy of our dread lord Hokum...
Stinger: Spit it out, egghead.
Doctor: Very well. The guard you just killed... This is what...made him.
Scientist: This turned a normal org into a better org, an 'org plus' if you
will.
Doctor: One who is stronger, tougher, and of a rather vicious nature.
Scientist: Just outside is a chamber filled with our work.
Doctor: Soon, they will be ready to serve Lord Hokum.
Scientist: Er...after they adjust to their new forms.
Doctor: It's a little...unsettling at first.
Stinger: So, you lock 'em up in holes?
Bet they just love you when they get out.
Doctor: Oh, they hold no grudge. Their minds are more...pliable...easier to
command.
Jirina: You admit responsibility for bringing these freaks to our world?
Scientist: Yes. We follow the lead of Lord Hokum.
Doctor: We remake our people in his image!
Windleaf: You deserve to die...slowly and unpleasantly!
Jirina: Like she said!!!!
Doctor: Heh heh heh. I don't think so.
Scientist: You see, we've been processed, too. And we're not about to throw
our work into the trash heap!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Looks like they were mining more than hexite here...
Jirina: ....
Windleaf: This is awful... I'm so sorry, Jirina...
We've got to do something!
Stinger: We are doing something.
---- Stinger picks up something.
Stinger: And with this Gold Key, we'll be able to do a lot more.
Jirina: Indeed. With this key, we can reach the Minelord.
Stinger: Excellent. Let's go.
---- They join together again.
---- Check the machinery.
o-----------------------------o
| The pipe feels as smooth as |
| skin...as if it were alive. |
o-----------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. GOLD ONE WITH THE GOLD KEY
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------
Ore Processing Chamber
----------------------
Setting: A cavern with pink crates piled high and some dead bodies and a
couple of troops.
Sergeant: That's the last of 'em. Let's go find the Captain...
Guard: Hold up, Sarge. Looks like we missed a few...
Windleaf: Those bodies...
Jirina: They're workers! They've murdered them!
Sergeant: Kill those grunts! We've gotta get outta here!
Stinger: You're not going anywhere, 'Sarge...'
Guard: You heard the Sarge! Let's send 'em to the furnace!
Jirina: Aaaaaaaarrrr!
---- Battle.
Jirina: All dead... The massacre has begun.
Stinger; Take it easy... We stopped 'em here. Right?
Windleaf: The other levels might have a fighting chance, thanks to us.
Jirina: I suppose you are right.
Stinger: We can't save everybody. We're only human...
Jirina: Correction. The two of you are human. I am not.
The gods expect more from the Org-Ta.
Stinger: You gonna go nuts, thinking like that.
Jirina: Worry for yourself. I shall prevail.
Windleaf: Um...we all will...
Jirina: ...
Right...you're right. We all will.
Stinger: Right! What's next?
Jirina: Next...next we finish this. Quickly.
Windleaf: How?
Jirina: See that shaft over there? It's an ore feed from the Minelord's
chamber.
Stinger: So what?
Jirina: If we follow it, it will take us directly to the Minelord...
Stinger: Oh, okay. I get it.
Windelaf: Sounds like our course is clear.
Jirina: Prepare yourselves. Our final battle lies ahead.
Stinger: Let's do this.
-----------------------
The Belly of the Beast!
-----------------------
Setting: A cavern at the end of the blue pipe. There is a large, fat, yellow
and orange creature with three eyes at the top of its head.
Minelord: Ugly animals of flesh and bone...
I do not require feeding. I have gorged on the mineral for too
long...
And the chaos Hokum feeds on has taken its toll as well...
Go! Tell your master I am ill...
Jirina: What?
Minelord: Hokum's greed has taken it's toll...
Soon, I will expire. I relish the thought...
Stinger: That explains why all the guards are leaving...
Jirina: They know things are taking a turn for the worse?
Stinger: Right. Hokum's goons have stuffed this thing to the gills! It's
ready to croak!
Minelord: I...am compelled to eat... The hexite forces me to... It is a
craving I cannot control...
But I am the heart and soul of the mine...
When I dies, the mine will collapse. And I will take as many of
them as I can with me...
You can still escape...
Jirina: Not an option. We're here to end this. To...destroy you before you
can do more harm.
Windleaf: But...it's already dying...
Can't we just leave? Let it die in peace?
Minelord: Peace?! I know no peace! I would slay you all!
If you've come to kill me, then...do your best.
I'd sooner die in battle than sit and slowly rot away!
Jirina: So be it.
Let there be an end to this!
---- Battle.
Jirina: It's over...at last.
Stinger: We...we gotta get outta here. Remember what it said! The whole
place is gonna go!
---- Stinger falls to the ground.
Windleaf: Stinger!
Jirina: Poison gas! Minelord's body...
...filled with it...
Windleaf: Help...uugggh...
---- She staggers and collapses.
Jirina: No...won't let it end...like thisss...
---- She falls as well.
Black screen.
---- Messages appear on screen.
o-----------o
| Hello...? |
o-----------o
o--------------------o
| Ah. |
| Coming to at last. |
o--------------------o
o-----------------o
| On your feet... |
o-----------------o
===============================================================================
17. PAYS'HOM AFTER THE HEXITE MINES 0170
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Old One's Abode
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The three of them are in the Elder's House and Daiglo is with them.
Stinger: Daiglo...?
Daiglo: You remembered!
Good. Gas didn't scramble your brains.
Windleaf: What happened?
Daiglo: Well, as far as I can tell from all the shrieking and grunting...
You three killed the Minelord. In the process, you wound up
flooding his cave with gas.
Said gas made you take a nap.
Stinger: A nap? More like the final sleep...
Daiglo: Stop interrupting.
Stinger: Sorry.
Daiglo: Anyway, the guards went berserk...the workers fought hack...
Etcetera, etcetera. Guess it got really ugly.
A bunch of miners went up to kill Minelord, only to find you.
You were barely alive. They did what they could, and then they got
me.
Windleaf: We owe you our lives. Thank you.
Daiglo: Ah, it was easy spellwork. Needed to shake the dust off of my wand,
anyway.
Stinger: Thanks just the same.
Daiglo: You wanna repay me? Get that sub outta my lake!
Stinger: We'll do our best.
Daiglo: Sure, sure. I gotta go.
Be seeing you.
---- Daiglo leaves.
Stinger: Man...I'm still a little woozy.
Jirina: Let's talk to the villagers. get our bearings... See how things are
going.
Windleaf: Okay... Can we sleep after that?
Stinger: For a week or so?
Jirina: We shall see. Come.
---- They join together again.
Leave the Abode and go back inside to speak to Trat-mal
Trat mal: I have heard the news. The village is alive again. We will not be
taken twice by that sorcerer...
I have advised the villagers to take up arms, and crush that which
would attack us!
It is not our way, but...
...we must survive, and Hokum must not...
Thank you for instilling out people with confidence. Go with the
grace of the gods and goddesses of the rocks.
Jirina: Thank you, Elder. Don't let the villagers give up!
Trat-mai: Fear not! We will prevail! Just as you will, in your hunt for
Hokum...
Travel safe! And good luck...
---- Speak to him again.
Trat-mai: We will protect Pays'Hom... Fear not!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Humble Dwelling
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jirina: Father! You are alive!
Jirin-maj: ...
Jirina: What...what is the matter.
Mother...she... How did she die...?
Jirin-maj:She was beaten to death by one of Hokum's devils. She couldn't work
fast enough... Rested too often...
Jirina: ...
Stinger: I'm sorry, Jirina. So much death all around... it numbs you...
Makes you dead inside...
Jirin-maj: Overworlders. We must thank you. Somehow you were bale to help us
tip the scale in our favour.
You are not unlike the one overworlder I have met. His name was
Keerg.
Jirin-maj: Odd, he was, but intelligent.
Stinger: You met...the Great Keerg?
Jirin-maj: If that is your name for him. He was on a quest. Noble he seemed.
Filled with peace.
Stinger: Where did he go.
Jirin-maj: I know not. He simply headed through town, deeper into Wyldern.
I think he wanted not to be found...to disappear into the depths of
Wyldern.
Windleaf: I can't imagine... Meeting up with a living legend... Teacher of the
one mind... Of universal love and peace...
Jirin-maj: Far cry from what's going on today. He'd just have ended up being
ground under some monster's claws...
Best that he's gone. That he can't see this... He would weep...
Jirina: I must continue on with my friends, father.
Jirin-maj: I know, young one. You must not stop what you have started here.
I'll attend to your mother's memory... I will be here when you are
done.
Jirina: Thank you father. Farewell.
Jirin-maj: My heart is with you. Please take care of each other. These
overworlders need your help. Perhaps you will visit their homes?
Wonderful is the world, and strange are the races that live on it...
Good bye.
---- Speak to him again.
Jirin-maj: Would you like to rest?
Yes
No.
#Select No.
---- Speak to the young girl in the right corner.
Jirin-maj: We will survive. We will have a future! Fight and survive!
Jirin-mak: Sister... You must stay! We are all alone!
Jirina: I know, little one. But not for long.
Take care of your father. You and he can honour our mother.
And remember her...
Jirin-mak: I will be back to live out my days here.
Jirin-mak: We will live to see each other's grandchildren!
So long, sister! Travel safe. The overworlders will protect you.
I know it!
---- Speak to her again.
Jirin-mak: We will keep Pays'Hom free. You'll see!
Setting: The Top of the path.
Jirina: The entrancee to the mines is blocked.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guardhouse
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The building at the top of the village. There are now two people
here.
Officer: Thanks to you we are slowly reclaiming our lives from the brink of
slavery...
We'll do what we can against Hokum...but...I hope he doesn't come
after us.
I mean, we're not really soldiers...just rocksmiths!
Guard: What he means is that we're on the brink of wetting our underwear...
Can't say I'll ever feel safe until Hokum's head is dripping on a
pike...
---- Speak to them both again.
Officer: We'll hold this town. Count on us!
Guard: We're getting stronger all the time. Don't worry about us!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An Angry Family
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The second house on the path to the right of Jirina's house is now
occupied by a family of three.
---- Speak to them all.
Mul-tan: I can't stand it no more! I'm gonna go out and kill me some of
Hokum's chums!
Saw too many die in that mine... A miracle my family survived...
I like miracles...
But now it's my turn to take to arms. Never again...Pays'Hom will
be free, or we'll die fighting!
---- Speak to him again.
Mul-tan: Four cheers for Pays'Hom! Rah. rah. rah. rah!
Mul-tu: Death! Death to Hokum! Ahhhieeeee!!!!
---- Speak to her again.
Mul-tu: Ahhieeeeee!!! Women against Hokum, unite!
Mul-mu: Daddy bought me a pike with a zig-zag blade! I can't wait to gut
one of Hokum's stooges!
---- Speak to him/her? again.
Mul-mu: Gotta get back to sharpening my pike. Don't wanna leave home
without a keen edge!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Torr-tuk's Novelties
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The item shop how has someone behind the counter.
Torr-tuk: Well, well... Foreigners in my store!
Have a look. Might find some dandy souvenirs to take back home to
your loved ones!
---- Show the inventory.
Turr-tuk: Drop by anytime!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Pacifist's Home
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This is at the right of Jirina's home. The family have nothing new
to say. (I started to type this out and thought it sounded familiar. It is
identical to their previous conversation...)
Yam-mar: Oh, Jirina! They are talking about you! You have...changed... So
violent...so angry...
What happened to the sweet girl we used to know?
Jirina: She's gone, Yam-mar. Hokum killed her. This Jirina wants to live.
Yam-mar: As do we all, but...
...do we have to go crazy? The citizens are taking up arms.
They're milling about, shouting.
Groups of kids head off into Wyldern on some grisly, horrible
hunt. This is not good. It is not befitting the townspeople of
Pays'Hom.
Stinger: Times have changed. Look around you!
Yam-mar: And these overworlders... They look like Hokum;s things... Must we
suffer their presence as well?
Jirina: It is their presence that has saved Pays'Hom. And it is time we
all took up the fight.
Evil walks among us now. You cannot sit this one out. It is time
you helped!
Yam-mar: Never. I'll never fight violence with violence!
Stinger: This isn't just violence. It's concentrated evil. And it wants
you dead.
YAm-mar: Well I don't think so. Everything can be discussed.
Windleaf: We've tried. Whatever is out there isn't listening...or isn't
interested in any of us.
Yam-mar: You go your own way now, and leave us in peace. We'll weather this
storm as we see fit...
---- The party regroups. Speak to them all again.
Yam-mar: Leave us in peace.
Yam-fur: Ahhhh! Leave before something awful happens. You're just
encouraging the others to violence. It's disgraceful!
Stop hounding me! Didn't you hear my husband?
Yam-tur: My daddy said not to talk to you. Go away!
Please leave me alone!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Stonecutter
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gan-Tor: I may be rooted to my house, but I have ears! Thank you. Thank
you all for what you've done!
I haven't seen my people this worked up in decades. Mighty
refreshing!
Jirina: Excuse me, I don;t mean to be rude, but you said you cold help us?
Gan'tor: Well, I sort of can... See, it's been a while since I was out and
about.
Say around 80 years...
Just remember this... In Wyldern, all roads lead to the river, or
to the land of the Blue Orgs and the Great Castle...
You must be cautious while on the river...gets a little rough...
Take the right roads, and you'll make it.
Don't, and...well...
...we won't think about that.
Jirina: That's it? We liberated the mines for...that? What kind of a
crackpot are you?
Gan-tor: Well, what choices do I have?
But seriously, young overworlder...
You liberated the mines to save lives... Hundreds of them...
For this we will be eternally in your debt.
I wish I could be more specific, but ...some things you will have
to do on your own.
Jirina: We'll be fine, old man. You stay well. Okay?
Gan-tor: Deal. Take care of your guests, Jirina.
Jirina: I will. So long.
---- Speak to him again.
Gan-tor: I'm rooting for you! Stir it up real good, now!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Militant's House
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jirina: Takyar! You're alive!
Tak-yar: Obviously!
Jirina: The rocks have protected you. Wyldern has favoured you! The
goddesses...
Tak-yar: Nonsense, dear. I simply beat the crap out of my jailer in the
mines!
Let him think I was an old fool. He let his guard down, and the
rest was academic!
These would be the foreigners I've heard about. Overworlders, I
mean.
Welcome, people. You have come to join the fight?
Windleaf: We've been at this for a while, actually.
Tak-yar: Well, we can use your help. I'm setting up a training facility.
I have to whip these rocksmiths into shape. Make them crack skulls
the way they split stones.
Shouldn't be much of a problem.
We'll get things right around here. You carry on and do whatever
you're doing. I know it is the right thing.
Stinger: We're kind of making it up as we go, sir.
Tak-yar: Nonsense! No such thin. That you're being led is no surprise. By
whom...well, that is your concern.
Go now, and get out of my hair. I have fighters to train. I will
bring back the old ways. Wyldern shall be rid of this scourge!
Jirina: So long, old man. We will meet soon enough.
Tak-yar: I have no doubt, dear. Take care of these foreigners. They're
probably lost down here...
Jirina: I will. Good bye. And fight hard. I need a place to come back
to!
Tak-yar: You shall have one, dear. Now, go!
---- Speak to him again, and there is no more conversation.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Temple
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There is no change here. The Priestess will repeat her final
comment.
Priestess: May you survive to hear the laughter of your grandchildren....
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Smithy
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rag-smi: Look, I'm sorry I was rough on you the first time.
I was sick of the slaughter... And sick of being told what to do...
But now I know yours is the only way.
We must fight or die. Better to have one's skull crushed than have
one's spirit enslaved...
Take a look. See if you need anything!
---- Shows the shop inventory.
Rag-smi: Good luck! Drop by anytime!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Shrine of Organ
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This is the hidden room under the arch. Nothing has changed, except
that there are now two Sentries inside, protecting it.
Sentry
Kahr-tu: Don't worry about us! We learned the hard way... Peace is for
sissies!
Sentry
Tier-reg: We'll keep the town safe. You've given us hope! Death to Hokum!
---- Speak to them both again.
Sentry
Tier-reg: We'll clobber whatever they send this way.
Sentry
Kahr-tu: Seriously, you run along and lend a hand elsewhere.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Playground
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This area has changed more than any other! There are five individuals
waiting to be spoken to. From right to left:
Rad-mar: "When three vowels go to town, the middle on pushes the others
down..."
"I" goes before "e" except after "c"...
...unless, of course, "i" floats bleeding in the sae...
Urr...
...no...
...no that's not how they go...
I don't know...
I don't know anymore...
Teacher is gonna be mad at me...
That is if she's still alive!
---- Speak to them again.
Rad-mar: Say, you're not all from around here, are you?
A couple of you look like some things Hokum cooked up...
Thiel-sru: You look funny...
You beat up those bad people like you were warriors, but you look
like...clowns!
Let's see what you really look like!
Take off your scary masks!
---- Speak to her again.
Thiel-sru: Come on! What have you got to hide? Let's see what kind of Orgs
you are!
Thiel-ma: Great gods in the ground! She's back!
Thiel-sru came strolling back into the playground like nothing had
happened.
My heart nearly stopped dead! Thank you! Thank you!
---- Speak to him again.
Thiel-ma: I'd hug you if I weren't so frail!
Wor-ne: Something bad happened to Rad-mar in the mines.
Now all he does is repeat grammar rules we learned in school...
...only he changes 'em a little...
He recites creepy grammar rules now...
---- Speak to him again.
Wor-ne: Thank you for saving us. Now we can play in the playground
forever!
Amba-der: I love this playground! You wouldn't believe how boring the mines
were.
There was plenty of sand toplay in, though.
---- Speak to her again.
Amba-der: I think I'll spend the rest of my life just playing here.
With my buds, of course...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fire Pit
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The same three Org-Ta are at the Fire Pit and they have new things to
say. Speak to them again for an extra comment.
Trahk-ma: Thank you! Thank you!
That tyrant won't be getting the upper hand on us again!
You've shown us the way!
We so take for granted our freedom...
Never again...
Jirt-ra: You light up our lives!
You give us hope to carry on!
Kohl-ta: We thank you. As the keepers of the history of our people, we will
create a new Song about you!
Your deeds will live on in the Great Songs forever!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leaving Pays'Hom
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Once they group heads east on the path out of the village, they are
stopped just before the bridge. Ramac is waiting and blocks the way.
Ramac: Hey! You! War people!
Stinger: I think he means you, girls.
Windleaf: Stop it...this is serious!
Ramac: They just took off! If you hurry, you might catch 'em!
Jirina: Who are you speaking of?
Ramac: Guards! Darglings! They must've been hiding when they heard about
the mine...and the mobs...and...
Stinger: We get the picture. So a couple of guards got away. Big deal.
Jirina: Actually... It may be a bog deal.
Stinger: Huh...?
Jirina: Those guards will undoubtedly return to their garrison. If they
make it...
Ramac: Oh, no. They'll come back...with friends! LOTS of friends!
---- He walks away down the bridge out of the village.
Jirina: We must stop them. Give the locals time to organise...prepare
defenses.
Stinger: Looks like we get to see more of scenic Wyldern, Windleaf.
Windleaf: Sure does. Guess we'd better get moving.
Jirina: Come! We've not a moment to spare!
The garrison lies to the north from Pays'Hom. If we hurry, we can
beat them there.
Stinger: And then what...?
Jirina: We stop them from alerting the Garrison. Permanently.
Stinger: I knew she'd say that. Why did I ask? I KNEW she'd say that...
Windleaf: Come on... Worry about it later!
---- They regroup.
===============================================================================
18. MICHI VILLAGE 0180
===============================================================================
The map north of Pay's Hom has a glyph after crossing the bridge and heading
west.
A severed arm pierced by a bloody dagger.
o-------------------------------o
| Icon representing ancient |
| Wylderian tragedy "The Death |
| of Mr. Wences" |
o-------------------------------o
The next map is where Michi Village is found.
To the left of Michi Village is a glyph of a large lizard with a long tongue.
o-------------------------------o
| Prehistoric region of lizards |
| with prehistoric tongues. |
o-------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. The Village 0181
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The village consists of a peaceful scene of six huts circling a pond
and an Org called Shirz is walking up and down.
Shirz: You better get outta here. I leaned over to pick a boil on my foot
yesterday...
Had to pop it...you know, drain the thick pinkish juice and all...
At any rate, when I straightened up, half the village was dead...
...and the other half was being hauled away by Hokum's Army to work
the mines.
We got us some baaaaad mojo here...
Run, or you might get hauled away too!
---- Speak to him again.
Shirz: Are you lookin' at me?
Am I botherin' you?
Marqu's Shop
------------
Marqu: You want it? You got it!
Best selection of goods in Michi! I guarantee it!
---- Shows inventory.
Marqu: Let's use our items wisely, shall we?
---- Speak to him again.
Marqu: Whatcha need?
Let's never abuse our curatives or elixirs...
Feegus' Hut: Rest and Save
--------------------------
Setting: A couple of mats on the floor.
Feegus: Well, well... Our local heroes!
Hokum's legions will never make us tremble as they once did! We CAN
defeat them!
How about 40 winks? Snooze would do ya good!
Yes
No.
#Select Yes.
Feegus: I'll try to keep things quiet for ya!
---- Speak to him again.
How about 40 winks, heroes? A snooze would do ya good.
#Select No.
Feegus: Well, heroes like you probably don't need much sleep!
Sarif's Shack
------------
Setting: an open fire pit and a long bed/bench are the only things in here.
Sarif: Oh, dear... So many fatalities... So much destruction...
I just hope my boyfriend comes back...
I'll see the world in black and white until he does...
Black and white...ruby red...
Oh, me...oh my...
---- Speak to her again.
Sarif: Oh, lordy, lordy...
Malio's Museum
--------------
Setting: Hardly a museum...just a round stone and a heap of stones.
Mailo: I feel like a load has been lifted from me.
Now, if only my boyfriend would just walk in that door.
He wears the most gorgeous ruby red lipstick...
Oh, I fear for his life...
---- Speak to her again.
Malio: We're waking up! We're taking responsibity!
"Hokum's heroes" won't ever beat us up again!
Pasha's Pad
-----------
Setting: A large round water container with a pipe over it.
Pasha: We have hope now. you gave us that!
Oh, and by the way...
Let me know if you see my husband anywhere.
No one seems to know where he is!
He's average height, average weight, has brown hair and eyes, has
spent his life doing menial labour...
...and like to wear ruby red lipstick.
Keep your eyes peeled. Okay?
Stinger: If we see him, we'll send him your way...
---- Speak to her again.
Pasha: If only I could find my man...
===============================================================================
19. THE GARRISON 0190
===============================================================================
Setting: The woods just before the Garrison. They catch up with three Darg
Org guards.
Jirina: There! There are the cowards we seek!
Guard: Yiiiiiii! We are undone! Flee for your lives!
Windleaf: Not so fast. Your exodus ends now.
Stinger: Hey... What're we waiting for? Let's get 'em, already!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Now what?
Jirina: This isn't enough. Pogras will find out about the Mine soon
enough.
Stinger: So? Aren't the Org-Ta ready for him?
Jirina: No. They are not. Worry not. I have a plan...
---- The screen goes black and then they are in front of the fort.
Stinger: This is some plan... Posing as prisoners to get inside!
Windleaf: How else are we going to get in there?
Jirina: Be silent! If you alert the guards, the plan will be blown.
Stinger: Yeah, yeah...
Jirina: Move out. I shall summon the guard.
---- They move towards to fort entrance.
Jirina: HAIL THE KEEP!
Stinger: Where the hell are the guards!
Windleaf: Sssh!
Jirina: HAIL THE KEEP!
Guard: Whuh? Who dat?
Jirina: Prisoner transfer from the Mine.
A patrol caught these worms trying to free workers there.
Guard: Uhnh=huh. Bring 'em in. We'll fix 'em good!
Jirini: I have orders to turn them over to the General for questioning.
Guard: Uhnh? Take dat up wit' the Cap'n...
Jirina: Right.
Move it, you puny curs!
Stinger: Ow1 Take it easy!
---- They move into the main fort.
Jirina: Just as I suspected. Most of the guards are asleep or on patrol.
Stinger: Good. Should make this easy.
Windleaf: Don't be too sure...
Jirina: Right. Follow my lead. We need to find Pogras...quickly.
---- They join up again. Try to leave the fort.
Jirina: Leaving is not an option. We must rid the world of Pogras!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i Finding Pogras 0191
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Tents
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: there are some lighted tents. The first is a Smithy.
The Smithy
----------
Smith: Whadda you want?
Jirina: Just passing through. Don't let me bother you.
Smith: Huh? You're mighty polite for a Hokumer!
Sniff sniff... Don't smell right, either.
Jirina: Keep your trap shut, or I'll stick my boot in it.
Smith: Better... But still not crude enough.
Jirina: Listen, you...
Smith: Org ta bey?
Jirina: ...
Bey!
Smith: I thought so. Are the Org-Ta preparing to attack?
Jirina: In a manner of speaking. We are here to silence Pogras.
Smith: !!! Are you mad? That's suicidal!
Jirina: Perhaps. The night is not over yet.
Smith: You are insane. Waste of time trying to reason with you.
But I'm not gonna hinder you, either.
Jirina: Thanks.
Smith: May your path end in victory.
Jirina: Long live the Org-Ta.
---- Speak to him again.
Smith: Getting sick of being a slave. Hope you get lucky and kill that
Pogras!
---- Check the item on the ground.
o-----------------o
| Eyelash curler. |
o-----------------o
The Arsenal
-----------
Guard: Gnnnnnh. Don't recognise your smell. Must be new.
Jirina: That's right. In from the Mine.
Guard: Unh. Had Mine duty once.
Walked out with my pockets stuffed with Hexite!
Jirina: That's the only good part. The slaves are dying like flies!
Guard: When the Banori fall, we'll have lots of fresh blood!
Jirina: Any word about the Org-Ta?
Guard: Fah! Those cowards will be gone soon enough.
General Pogras says it's only a matter of time before we find thier
base!
Jirina: Excellent.
Guard: Won't be long'til we go after the Toparri! Snooty little twerps!
Jirina: Well, gotta go. Prisoners to deliver. Slaves to whip.
Guard: Right.
---- Speak to him again.
Guard: Watch out for the General. He's a real grouch at night. They say
he has nightmares...
---- Check the things in the tent.
o-----------------------------o
| Slightly used pair of axes. |
| Available for a prayer! |
o-----------------------------o
o------------------------o
| Finely crafted shot. |
| Suitable for hurling |
| down on your enemy! |
| Buy one, or a complete |
| set! |
o------------------------o
Outside the Tents
-----------------
Setting: in front of the steps there is a cone shaped metal object that looks
like a drill.
Jirina: Wonder what this thing is? Oh well...
Barracks
--------
Setting: There are a couple of beds and an officer is berating a guard.
Officer: I don't care if you're sick! Get this perk-sty cleaned up!
Guard: Gwuh... Yussur.
Officer: What was that? Speak up!
Trooper: YUS SUR!
Officer: Bah! I can't believe my eyes. A shocktrooper with a cold!
Disgusting!
When will I get real troops?
Jirina: Scuse me... I'll be going now.
Officer: Hold it, you! Who are you, anyway?
Jirina: Uh...Sergeant Dulmina, from the Mine. I'm here on prisoner
transfer.
Officer: Hmmm... I see. Well, as you can see, this is not the prison.
Jirina: Yes, sir!
Officer: Well? Clear out, soldier!
Jirina: Yessir!
---- Speak to the both again.
Officer: You're still here...? Get those prisoners delivered, trooper! MOVE
MOVE MOVE!!!
Trooper: Thiss cold suh...suh...
sss... WWAAAAAH_CHUUUUH!
(snuffle) Stinks.
Thiss cold suh...suh...
Empty Tent
----------
Setting: The right hand tent.
Stinger: Whew! This is getting intense!
Windleaf: Hope this place stays empty.
Jirina: We should be fine for now.
Stinger: Yeah...I still want to get this over with.
Jirina: That makes us a pair. Stick with the plan and it will be over
soon.
Stinger: Right...
Sarge's Tent
------------
Setting: The last tent to the right of the opening. This has a chest and a
guard.
Jirina: Excuse me... Wrong tent.
Sarge: You got that right, you malformed excuse for a trooper!
What in Hokum's dark name do you think you're doing in here,
moss-brain?
Jirina: Er...prisoner transfer from the Mine...
Sarge: Does this look like the PRISON to you, soldier?!
Jirina: No, sergeant!
Sarge: Do you have a VISION problem, soldier?!
Jirina: No, sergeant!!
Sarge: THEN DISAPPEAR!!!
Jirina: Yes, sergeant!!!
---- Speak to him again.
Sarge: What...?! You again?
Get lost before I stick you on outhouse duty FOR LIFE!!!
---- Check the items in the tent.
o---------------------------o
| Deekonn Roach Nix (R) |
| (Test on surface first to |
| see if it leaves a stain |
| or mark.) |
o---------------------------o
o--------------------o
| Moss wine bottles. |
| Empty. |
o--------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Filthy bedding strewn with |
| Copious loose hairs... |
o----------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inside the Fort
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Wooden walkways are laid out in various directions.
--------
The Mess
--------
Setting: A round room with a cook pot and cook.
Cook: T...the d...dinner will be r...ready soon, masters. Please don't
punish me!
Jirina: Uh...relax, cook. No one's here to punish you.
Cook: N...no?
Jirina: That' right. Continue with your work.
Cook: V...very well, master. i will make good food for you, yes!
Jirina: Very good, cook.
---- Speak to him again.
Cook: Sweet and sour perksteak tonight, masters! With tanglerice and lake
eel salad!
--------
War Room
--------
Setting: A round room with a table in the centre and a map on the right wall.
they arrive at the top of some steps. There is no one here.
---- Check the chart on the wall by the steps.
o-----------------------------o
| Quarterly Casualty Chart. |
| (All numbers in thousands.) |
o-----------------------------o
Stinger: What is this place?
Jirina: It's a war room.
Windleaf: You mean...people fight each other in here?
Jirina: No, I do not mean that. A war room is a place where officers plan
strategy.
Windleaf: Why don't they call it a planning room, then?
Stinger: Or a strategy room?
Jirina: I do not know. I do not care.
Stinger: Well. Guess that conversation's over.
Windleaf: Guess so.
Jirina: You are correct.
o------------------------o
| Crude map of Wyldern. |
o------------------------o
o--------------------o
| Map of the Realm. |
o--------------------o
---------------
Torture Chamber
---------------
Setting: A room with various instruments of torture and blood on the floor.
Torturer: Uh...hullo.
Jirina: Ugh... A torture chamber.
Torturer: You want I should torture someone, buddy?
Jirina: That won't be necessary.
Torturer: Whew. I'm glad.
Jirina: You are...?
Torturer: Yup. Uh...you seem okay, so don't spread this around.
Jirina: My lips are sealed.
Torturer: I'm terrible at this job. I don't know how half this stuff works.
I mean, the beatings are easy enough...But the gadgets!
Jirina: They do seem tricky.
Torturer: I'm no good at keeping people alive, either. Or askin' questions.
I just get mad, I see red...and then they stop movin'.
Jirina: Perhaps you should get a transfer.
Torturer: Yeah. I took the job cause I hate to march.
Jirina: ...
Torturer: Figured I'd get a good desk job, relax my feet.
But this was the only open job!
Jirina: Well, you could always get work as a mine guard.
Torturer: Yeah...yeah! They don't march much, do they?
Jrina: No. In fact, they don't march at all now.
Torturer: Hey, thanks buddy. I'm gonna transfer tomorrow!
Jirina: Good for you. Maybe I'll see you at the Mine.
Torturer: Right! See ya!
---- Speak to him again.
Torturer: Hey, buddy. Keepin' busy?
---- Check the table.
o-------------------------o
| 'Table of Misfortune.' |
| Use caution when |
| lying down. |
o-------------------------o
---- Inspect the white computer screen to the right of the room.
Jirina: This looks interesting... What is it?
o-------------------------o
| I am a GAS, a Gadgeteer |
| Amusement System. |
o-------------------------o
Jirina: Whoa! It talks!
o--------------------------------o
| Would you like to play a game? |
o--------------------------------o
#Select No.
o---------------o
| You are lame. |
o---------------o
o--------------------------o
| You wouldn't know fun if |
| is bit you on the rump. |
o--------------------------o
o------------------o
| Have a nice day! |
o------------------o
##Select Yes
Excellent.
o---------------------------------------o
| How about "Global Thermonuclear War?" |
o---------------------------------------o
Jirina: That doesn't sound very fun.
Can we play something else?
o------------o
| Certainly. |
o------------o
o--------------------------o
| How about a nice |
| game of Gadget Madness? |
o--------------------------o
Jirina: That sound promising!
Are you sure you want to play?
Yes
No
------------------
Officer's Quarters
------------------
Setting: A room with bunk beds, and officer and a couple of chests.
Officer: Yes...? What is it, trooper?
Jirina: Er...sorry, sir. Wrong room.
Officer: What room are you looking for?
Jirina: I'm to report to the General, sir.
Officer: Oh. He's down the hall.
Just find the maids' room--you can't miss the hammocks--and continue
on into the adjoining room.
Jirina: Er...right. Thank you, sir.
Officer: Carry on, trooper.
Jirina: Yes, sir!
---- Speak to him again.
Officer: Lost again, trooper?
Jirina: Er...that was down the hall, past the maids, right?
Officer: Correct. You need to clean your ears out, trooper!
---------------
Torture Chamber (Revisit)
--------------
Setting: Chains hanging and various instruments of torture, and blood on the
ground.
Torturer: Yeeeeeee! Don't hurt me! I give up!
---------
The Vault
---------
Setting: A room with three chests and two coloured items. There are no
enemies.
Stinger: Whoa! Look at all this stuff!
Windleaf: Where are the guards?
Jirina: I doubt there are any.
They probably fear Pogras so much they wouldn't dare steal from him.
Stinger: Well, I don't fear Pogras... And I have no problem stealin' him
blind!
Windleaf: We should probably focus on our mission here...
Jirina: Yes. Let's get moving.
----------------
Hall of Hammocks
----------------
Setting: A room with six ordinary hammocks, and two female Orgs.
Cerina: Oh, no. Not another one...
Taluta: Have you no heart? The General is bad enough!
Cerina: We are too tired to dance...to sing. For anything.
Jirina: Cerina...? Is that you?
Cerina: That voice...
Jirina: It's me, Jirina. I am in disguise.
Cerina: I should hope so!
What are you doing here? They'll kill you!
Jirina: Perhaps. But not before I kill Pogras!
Cerina: Kill...Pogras?
Taluta: She is mad, sister. She will get us killed too!
Cerina: Be quiet. Jirina is an old friend. She's mean enough to be
Org-Ta!
Jirina: I am Org-Ta. Our people will soon have their vengeance.
Cerina: A woman...in the Org-Ta?!?
Taluta: Feh! The mighty Org-Ta! What good are they?
Jirina: Wait and see. Your doubt will soon be replaced...
Cerina: I believe you, Jirina. I believe in the Org-Ta.
Taluta: I'll believe in anyone that gets me out of here!
Cerina: Pogras lies sleeping in the next chamber...
Taluta: He's drunk...as usual. Strike quickly and no one will know.
Jirina: It will be done. If anyone should come...play dumb.
Cerina: Of course. "The Org-Ta overpowered us."
Taluta: "We are but helpless women."
Cerina: "What good are we against swords?"
Jirina: Very good, sisters. Your liberation is at hand!
Cerina: May your path end in victory, Jirina.
Jirina: Long live the Org-Ta, Cerina.
---- Speak to them again.
Cerina: If you're going to kill Pogras, hurry!
It is almost dawn. The patrols will soon return.
Taluta: Hurry up! I want to get out of here!
----------
Guard Post
----------
Setting: Two guards and swords on the wall of a round empty room.
Guard: Hey, there.
Trooper: Just get in?
Jirina: Yes. I'm here on a prisoner transfer.
Guard: Well, we have an empty cell back there.
Jirina: Excellent. I hear the General himself will interrogate them.
Trooper: Har! That won't take long.
Guard: What's the record? An hour?
Trooper: Yeah. That Banori woman made it an hour before she broke.
Guard: Everyone else usually goes down in minutes. Pain is the key!
Jirina: Yes, I can't wait to see the General doing what he does best!
Guard: No one meaner! It's a hoot, I tell ya!
Jirina: Right. Better get going, I suppose.
Trooper: Take it easy.
---- Speak to them again.
Trooper: Wish we were in the field. Garrison duty is boring!
Guard: You still here? Woulda thought you'd be gone by now.
---- Check the swords on the wall.
o-------------------------o
| Set of duelling blades. |
| Often used by married |
| org couples to settle |
| disputes. |
o-------------------------o
----------
Cell Block
----------
Setting: A large red hole is in the centre of a round area. Cells are set in
the wall.
There is nothing to be done here. The cells are locked and there is no-one
there.
----------------
Command Quarters
----------------
Setting: A round room with two chests and pillows, and Pogras is asleep on a
round bed.
Jirina: There he is... The traitor Pogras.
Stinger: Let's get this over with.
---- He walks closer to Pogras
Windleaf: I-I don't know...I feel bad about this.
Jirina: What?!
Windleaf: In battle...awake...I would have no problem...
Stinger: So he's asleep! He's a monster...
---- Jirina walks forwards and goes up, right next to the bed.
Jirina: Enough. I will end it.
---- Pogras rouses and gets up.
Pogras: Whh-whiiiihh?!?
Jirina: Orgrul's name! He is protected! Some sort of shield!
Pogras: ASSASSINS1 Haaaalllp! GUAAARRRRDS!
Stinger: Oh, great1 Shut him up quick!
Pogras: Not this time, assassin!
Jirina: Nnn...no...
---- Some shiny green stuff appears on the floor of the room under the
feet of the party.
Stinger: R.run...
Windleaf: S-sllleeeeeep...
---- All three of them fall to the ground. A guard enters.
Guard: General! Are you well?
Pogras: Yes, you fool! Where were you? These assassins nearly got me!
Guard: I shall kill them at once!
Pogras: No! Lock them up! Hokum will want to interrogate them.
And when he's done... I shall have my revenge. Whuh hah haaaaah!
---- o--------------------o
| Some time later... |
o--------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Holding Cell
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: All three of the party are laid out on the ground inside a cell.
There are two Gadgeteers in the cell as well.
Lou: They still asleep, Calark?
Calark: Yeah.
Pathetic to look at. Driving me to the brink of despair.
Lou: Cheer up... I've a plan.
I'm bored. It's time we broke out of here.
---- Lou walks to Stinger.
Lou: Hey. Wake up.
---- Stinger gets up.
Stinger: What the...? Gadgeteers...?
Lou: Gold star for the Arkosian!
Windleaf: ...
Gadgeteers?
Here?!
Jirina: Yes. Gadgeteers. The ones who were captured.
Lou: We are about to 'uncapture' ourselves.
You will come with us. Should you wish to, of course.
Windleaf: Let's get outta here!
Stinger: I think she said it all.
Lou: As I expected. Here's the deal.
We, meaning Clark and myself, are going to break this door.
Calark: We are...?
Lou: Yes, you two-bit excuse for a drone! Shape up!
Calark: Uh, yeah, okay.
Lou: Then, you three descendants of lung fishes are going to start
breaking heads.
Jirina: Inaccurate characterisation, but...please go on...
Lou: In all the chaos, Calark and I will get to the 'MOLE.'
Stinger: Is that the contraption we saw in the courtyard?
Lou: It is.
Once in the MOLE, we'll fire it up and get ready to leave this
place.
Stinger: I trust you'll wait for us?
Lou: Look, spawn of Arkose... I might be rude, but I'm not a weasel.
You do your part, and there's a ride out of here for you.
Stinger: When do we start?
Lou: In a little bit. Calark and I have work to do.
Windleaf: Hurry up and wait. I love it...
o----------o
| Later... |
o----------o
Lou: Okay. Break time over. You must now do your part.
Stinger: Relax, stumpy. We're ready, and willing!
Lou: 'Stumpy...?' I shall take that as a compliment.
Okay. Everyone happy? Any nagging anxieties? Frustrations? No?
Then...
...ready...set...GO!
---- The party regroups.
Jirina: We'll see you at the MOLE!
Lou: Don't take too long...
Calark: Kick calabash, kids!
---- They emerge from the cell.
---------------
The Second Cell
---------------
Setting: After picking a level one lock, the party enters the second cell.
There are two Orgs there: one is old and the other a young male.
Kulkas: Wyldin, prepare for battle!
Jirina: That won't be necessary.
Wyldin: Speak for yourself, traitor!
Stinger: Oh, brother...
Jirina: You...dare?
Windleaf: Jirina, they're prisoners. They don't know what's going on.
Kulkas: All I trust are my eyes and my warmates.
And my eyes see two infidels and a traitor!
Wyldin: Hold, warbrother. Seek clarity.
Kulkas: What are you babbling, Wyldin?
Wyldin: They are not attacking. The warsister does not have the look of the
enemy.
Kulkas: It...it is a trick! Sorcery to fool our eyes.
Jirina: Believe as you will. You are now free.
Wyldin: Free...?
Stinger: Yeah. You know... Free...the opposite of 'stuck in a smelly hole.'
Jirina: Come. We have work.
Kulkas: What...where are you going?
Jirina: Where else? To fight the enemy. To escape this place.
Windleaf: If you're smart, you will too.
---- The group leaves. The two in the cell continue to talk.
Kulkas: ...
Wyldin: Well? Let's go!
---- They leave the cell.
--------------
The Third Cell
--------------
Setting: After picking the lock they go inside to find a large brown creature
named Banalau.
Banalau: Has the time come at last?
Stinger: You bet. It's time for you to get out of here!
Whatever you are...
Banalau: I...am a Banori. Who are you people? Why are you here?
Jirina: They are from Apunn-sii. You know what I am. We are here to help
you.
Windleaf: But, we need to be going. Quickly, before the guards arrive!
Banalau: The guards...yes. The filthy creatures that killed my wife...
Jirina: Your time of vengeance is at hand.
Banalau: Yes. Yes, you're right.
These monsters will know the wrath of the Banori!
---- Stinger walks away from the ladder entrance and the Banori leaves.
Stinger: Do they all look like that?
Jirina: The Banori are a fierce, strong people.
Our tribes and clans have fought for dominance many times over the
centuries.
Now our conflicts seem petty next to the threat of Hokum.
Windleaf: Perhaps you can unite against Hokum...work together for a change.
Jirina: Your idea has merit, warsister. But old feuds die hard...
Stinger: Enough social commentary. We gotta move, or this cell's gonna be
our home...
---- They join together and leave.
----------
Guard Post
----------
Setting: The guards are talking as the party approaches the Guard Post.
Guard: You hear somethin'?
Trooper: Naw. Why, you bored? i can go smack a prisoner around to liven
the place up.
Guard: That'll make plenty of noise!
Guard: Yeah! How about that funny lookin' kid with the sissy hair?
Trooper: Yeah. he'll squeal nicely. Specially when i kick him in the
business...
---- Stinger arrives in the guard room.
Guard: Whaaaaa...
He's loose!
Stinger: You were saying? Something about...the business?
Trooper: Heh heh heh. Ooooh, yeah! This gunna be fun!
Guard: There's two of us, and one of you! You're goin' down, kid!
Stinger: I think something's wrong with your math.
---- Jirina and Windleaf arrive.
Guard: Uh, oh.
Trooper: Whadda, you mean, 'uh, oh?!'
It's just a couple of puny creatures and...a slave. Bust their
heads!
Jirina: Grrrrrr... Slave no more, mongrel!
Trooper: Attaaaaaaack!
---- Battle.
Jirina: Pathetic.
Stinger: Let's hope the rest of the way out is this simple.
Windleaf: Is it ever?
Stinger: Well...no. But there's a first time for everything!
Windleaf: (sigh) ...
Jirina: Let's move.
-------------------------
Hall of Hammocks: Revisit
-------------------------
Cerina: Run! Get out before the guards find you!
Taluta: You botched it! They'll probably kill us all!
-----
Vault
-----
Stinger: Whew! Coast is clear in here.
Jirina: For the moment.
Windleaf: She's right! Come on, Stinger!
Stinger: Awww...
-------------------
The Tent Area Again
-------------------
Setting: The party emerges from the fort, ready to face Pogras. He is waiting
for them.
Stinger: Uh, oh...
Windleaf: It's General Pogras!
Pogras: How flattering. You remember my name. Good.
Soon you will be screaming it at the top of your lungs.
Unless...you would like to beg for a mercy killing?
Stinger: Guess again, ugly. This time, you're going down.
Pogras: I'm afraid not! I'm going to kill you, and torture your women!
Your skull will make a fine spittoon!
Jirina: Enough of this!
For the Org-Ta!
For victory!
---- Battle.
Pogras: G...g...glk...
Jirina: Choke on your life blood, traitor!
Stinger: Guys...there's a whole bunch of troops around here...
Jirina: Bring them on!
I am ready! The traitor Pogras is dead at my feet!
Windleaf: Come on, Jirina! We can't beat an army!
Stinger: She's right!
Unless you really want to commit suicide, you'll come along with us!
Jirina: ...
Stinger: Screw this! I'm outta here!
---- Stinger runs towards the steps.
Windleaf: Jirina...!
Why throw it all away now? We still have a war to win.
We need your help...
Jirina: Very well, warsister. I...will come with you.
Stinger: Will you two HURRY UP?!
Windleaf: We're coming!
---- Two Guards suddenly appear outside the left tent.
Stinger: Uh, oh...
Guard: TO ARMS! TO ARMS! INTRUDERS!
Trooper: THEY'VE KILLED THE GENERAL! GET THEM!
---- The three party members run down the steps as the guards follow.
---- There is a sound of an engine and the odd shaped cone to the left
is the source of the noise.
Stinger: I sure hope this thin works...
Windleaf: It'll be a short trip if it doesn't!
Jirina: You want me to get into THAT?!
Now who's being suicidal?!
Windleaf: We don't have time for this! Shut up and get in!
---- The party forms as one and runs to the left.
Officer: They're getting away! ATTACK! ATTACK!
---- The screen goes black.
Stinger: Whew...that was too close.
Lou: It ain't over yet, monkey-boy!
Stinger: What's that supposed to mean?!
Lou: It means we got a LOOTTA dirt to get through!
Jirina: And if we fail...?
Lou: Look at it this way... We'll be buried in style.
Jirina: You had better succeed.
Lou: And if I don't...?
Jirina: You will be the first to die.
Lou: ...
Right. Next stop...Arkose!
FMV of the MOLE!!!
*******************************************************************************
************************* PLEASE INSERT DISC 1 ********************************
******************************************************************************
===============================================================================
20. MAGIC ACADEMY 2 0200
===============================================================================
-----------------
Arrival in Arkose
-----------------
Setting: The Mole is lying on its side in some grass. There are palm trees in
the background. Calark is sleeping, propped up against the Mole
Stinger: Home sweet home!
Jirina: Apunn-sii...
It is... beautiful!
---- She walks away from the Mole.
Lou: Huh...? Where in the filthy grime is Eyre?!?
Stinger: Look...up in the sky!
Lou: I don't see nothin'.
Jirina: It's so bright... My visor barely shields my eyes...
Stinger: Well, if you keep looking, you'll eventually see it up there.
Lou: SACRED POLLEN ALIVE!
They've gone and pulled a Contingency 3...
Terrific...we're stuck here.
Windleaf: Cheer up, Lou. Last time we visited Eyre, things seemed just fine.
Lou: They let YOU in Eyre?!? Now I know they've gone off the deep end!
Stinger: Very funny, laughing boy. If you'll excuse us, we've got business
to attend to.
Lou: See if I care, primate. Go climb a tree or somethin'!
Windleaf: Um...well...as you wish. Thanks for helping us get home...
Lou: Don't mention it, chickie.
Jirina: What will you do now?
Lou: I expect I'm gonna go wake up Calark and get to work on the old
jalopy here.
Never know when I'll need to make another hasty exit...especially
up in this zoo.
Windleaf: Well...good luck... If you need help, stop by the Academy...
Lou: Like I need help from that buncha hacks! Haw!
Jirina: Insufferable worm...
Stinger: C'mon, guys... Let's get to the Academy...
---- Stinger and Jirina walk off screen.
Windleaf: Um...thanks again... So long...
Lou: ...
Ah...hey...
Windleaf: Yes?
Lou: Ah...thanks for helpin' me and Calark out down there...if you ever
need us...uh...heh...
Windleaf: Same to you. Take care, friend.
---- She walks away.
Lou: My, oh my...what a gal!
---- Lou turns to speak to Calark.
Lou: Calark! You chubbed out excuse for a drone!
Yer asleep on yer feet again!
Shape up! We got work to do, ya bum!
---- The screen goes black.
o-----------------------------o
| And so they went, weary and |
| worn, back to the ancient |
| abode of the Magi. |
o-----------------------------o
o--------------------------------o
| Their hearts were light, for |
| they knew they had won a great |
| victory in Wyldern that day. |
o--------------------------------o
o--------------------------------------o
| For a brief moment, they would rest. |
o--------------------------------------o
o------------------------------------o
| They would revel in their success, |
| though their journey had really |
| just begun... |
o------------------------------------o
-----------------
The Magic Academy
-----------------
Setting: At the entrance, outside the Magic Academy. Fessen is waiting.
Fessen: Ah! You made it!
Stinger: You sound surprised.
Windleaf: And a little disappointed...!
Fessen: Nonsense! I'm delighted!
The others have already returned.
Please join them in the Grand Chamber after freshening up in the
guest quarters.
Stinger: Thanks. We'll be right there.
---- They are now in the guest quarters.
Stinger: It's been so long since we've seen our friends.
---- The screen goes black.
-------------------------------
Introductions and a New Mission
-------------------------------
Setting: In the Meeting Room at the Academy. Everyone is there. Harv-5 and
Xero on the left, Stinger and Windleaf in the centre and Clemett and Jirina to
the right.
Helios: The circle is complete. We are all together again! Fortune has
smiled upon us!
Kecelia: And we have some new, powerful allies!
Our momentum is growing. It will be the undoing of the Darg!
Helios: Let's not jump the gun here, although I share your optimism...
First, I would hear from the newcomers, themselves, for that is our
way.
Jirina: I'm Jirina! Org-Ta, and freedom fighter from Pays'Hom, Wyldern.
---- She turns towards Stinger and Windleaf.
Jirina: I saved these tow Arkosians' lives and escorted them here.
Stinger: Now just a darn minute...
Windleaf: Let it go, Stinger. Just give her a chance to talk first.
Jirina: I would join your cause. I offer you my skills as a warrior and
sworn enemy of Hokum.
Helios: We welcome you, Jirina.
And you, Gadgeteer?
Xero: This is Clemett. We found him...
Clemett: Let me speak for myself, Head!
I was sort of stuck in the Ziggurat when those tow stumbled along.
Xero: That's an understatement...
Clemett: Hush!
These two got me out of my bind, and, well, convinced me to tag
along.
Can't say I have anything better to do, and...it's not like we
Gadgeteers don't have a common goal here.
Helios: Welcome, Clemett. We can definitely use your powerful grasp of
machinery and technology.
Cleemtt: Yeah, well...here I am!
Xero; Now that the introductions are over...we have something for you...
Harv-5... The Orb... Hand it to Helios.
---- Harv-5 walks up to Helios.
Harv-5: Here is the object of your desire.
Helios: So as to speak...
Thank you, all. And what a splendid object it is!
But we'll deal with this in a few moments...
First, for you newcomers, I'd like to present Kecelia and myself,
Helios.
We are among the last of the Magi. Welcome!
Kecelia: (ahem)
Helios: Sorry...
Kecelia: You should know that the crisis has worsened while you've been away.
Helios: The Darglings are growing in number and power...
Kecelia: The madness is affecting more and more of Arkose...
It's a mess out there, people. Folks are fearing for their lives...
Helios: The Darg once forgotten, is now on everyone's lips...
In everyone's thoughts...
Thus it is growing stronger... For this is how it propagates...
Kecelia: The danger is now extreme. We need to assemble the final component
of the Spell of Banishment.
Stinger: Well...cough it up. What do we need to do/
Helios: (Cough...hack...)
Stinger: Jeez, Helios... I didn't mean literally...
Helios: I know, boy... Just suffering from a touch of spleen...
Kecelia: He'll be fine...focus!
Helios: We have one component...the Orb. We now need the two final
components.
Kecelia: The blood of a Mage King, and the Essence of Chaos...
Clemett: Why not also add an infinitely hot dot, and that most elusive of
geometric shapes, a square circle?
Helios: (Cough...hack...)
I know these sound impossible...
Kecelia: And obscure...!
Stinger: And downright insane...!
Windleaf: Stinger!
Helios: But they ARE obtainable...
And these final components, when expertly blended, will deliver the
final death stroke to the Darg...
Kecelia: Who will be banished from Arkose forever. Over and out!
Xero: And we shall again be free to live our lives...in peace.
Stinger: Wait a second here. Blood of a Mage King...?
Aren't they all dead?
Helios: Indeed.
Harv-5: And the essence of Chaos...
One cannot distil something from nothing...
Helios: Unless...it already exists.
Please listen. The Essence of Chaos exists. It is somewhere in
Wyldern. This is all we know.
Further, we know that the tincture, what we call Blood of a Mage
King, exists.
Kecelia: It lies in the far-off and ancient kingdom of Metaboline.
Harv-5: (suddenly jumping) I will go to Metaboline! I must go!
Stinger: Gee, Harv-5, get a grip, will ya?
Why are you so fired up about this place, anyway?
Harv-5: It is mandated...in my programming.
Helios: Uh, well, now... Will anyone else accompany our mechanical friend?
Harv-5: Windleaf...
Stinger...
I must ask you.
Will you come with me? On many occasions you have asked me why
I...am like I am.
In Metaboline you will find an answer. As will I. Please...come
with me.
Windleaf: Harv-5...I've never seen you this adamant about anything...
Of course I'll go.
Stinger: Yeah, all right. Count me in.
Just like old times. The boss, the babe, and the buckethead...
Harv-5: Acceptable. May we leave?
Helios: Now hang on a second...
Let's make sure we're approaching this from the best angle.
As I see it, you two have just come from Wyldern, where the Essence
of Chaos is stashed.
You could be of value down there, don't you think?
Stinger: Well...maybe...but what about Harv-5?
Jirina: Be at ease, warbrother.
There are times for tactical decisions...and times for decisions of
the heart.
I am capable of leading any team in Wyldern... I am Org-Ta.
Be it Stinger and Windleaf or the Elder and the...mechanic...we
will succeed
Or we shall die trying.
So, go with your friend. Help him find what he seeks. Wyldern
will lie in capable hands.
Xero; Well! Far be it for me to turn down such a fine leader!
Where you go, good lady...there Von Moon shall follow!
Clemett: Wyldern, eh... That's where this Hokum character is, right?
Helios: Aye, that's true.
Clemett: I need to introduce him to the business end of my gun some day...
Also, I don't know these other people... No offence...
At least I know what the Head can and can't do...
Mostly "can't" do...
Xero: I thank you for that vote of confidence!
Clemett: So, count me in, big gal. Can't let the Head get all the glory!
---- They all turn back to face Helios.
Clemett: So, are we all okay with this, uh...Helios...
Helios: (Cough...cough...)
Kecelia: That was...too easy. Something is not right here...
Helios: Or something is very right. I don't care which. We required haste,
and that is precisely what we got.
Kecelia: The two parties should leave immediately.
Helios: Stinger, Windleaf and harv-5... you must again seek the aid of the
Gadgeteers in Karillon.
Kecelia: They can transport you to Dantyr using the floating city of Eyre.
Helios: There you shall seek out and explore the ancient ruins of Castle
Metaboline.
Kecelia: What you seek IS there. you must have faith...
Stinger: We'll find it... Or your money back...
Kecelia: Eh?
Helios: Forget it, Kecelia. It;s a pop culture thing.
Kecelia: Ah.
Helios: As for the others...
It comes as some surprise that Keerg is alive somewhere in Wyldern.
Stinger: Get outta town!
Helios: We know that he had the Essence of Chaos in his possession when he
was last seen.
Kecelia: He was touting it as a holy relic of some kind...
He either still has it, or knows where it is.
Helios: You will seek him out. You will convince him to hand it over to
you.
Clemett: Just like falling off a log...does anyone happen to have a spare
shovel?
It's a long way to Wyldern...
Stinger: Something better, actually.
Head for Eyre Crater. The Mole Machine we rode up here should
still be there!
Clemett: Now you're talkin', blondie! The right tool for the job!
Helios: So...we're all set. Good luck, all.
We will be here upon your return.
Kecelia: May we all find the strength we need to achieve our goals.
Helios: We will focus our minds and our hearts, for that is our way.
---- The party divides and three go left and three go right.
---- The screen goes black.
o--------------------o
| Meanwhile... |
| In the fortress of |
| Damon Hokum... |
o--------------------o
-------------------------
Damon Hokum and Mannheim
-------------------------
Setting: The same large Hall that was seen before. Mannheim enters the Hall.
Damon Hokum is pacing at the far end.
Damon
Hokum: It's about time. Report!
Mannheim: Milord... Despite considerable effort, the agents of the Magi have
made...some progress...
Damon
Hokum: Progress?!? PROGRESS?!?
What is the meaning of this?!
Mannheim: Do recall, milord... You didn't instruct me to eliminate them...
Damon
Hokum: Yes, yes...never mind that. What have they done?
Mannheim: It would appear that they have begin to collect the relics needed
for the Spell Of Banishment.
Damon
Hokum: Predictable...utterly predictable. Fools... Only a Mage King could
cast that spell!
Mannheim: Still...we should take steps, no?
Damon
Hokum: Mind your place, driveler! Never forget who reigns here...!
Now... How many artefacts have they found?
Mannheim: So far, they have but the Orb and the Codex. Somehow that dimwit
Gamathel managed to hide it from me...
...in spite of the pain...
Damon
Hokum: Sometimes I think you enjoy your work too much...
Mannheim: ...I only live to serve, milord...
At any rate, I believe they are out to recover the Mageblood and
the Essence next.
Damon
Hokum: Now, that is good news. Do they suspect we are on to them?
Mannheim: Doubtful! They plod onward as if fully shrouded in secrecy and
mystery! This is rich!
Damon
Hokum: Excellent. Return to Arkose...see to the operation on Dantyr
personally.
Mannheim: It shall be done.
Damon
Hokum: They got lucky when dealing with that fool Pogras...but they'll
never get past General Venal.
Mannheim: He is most formidable, milord. As vicious as he is greedy...
Damon
Hokum: Yes...but that could be his fatal flaw...
Mannheim: Milord?
Damon
Hokum: Dispatch some of your best commandoes to the northern reaches...
just in case they slip by Venal.
I don't want to contemplate what will happen if they reach the
Toparri...
Mannheim: It will not happen, milord.
Damon
Hokum: See to it that it doesn't. Leave me now...!
---- Mannheim leaves.
Damon
Hokum: They have done well, these fools...
But their crusade ends now...
All things come to those who wait...
Come to me little ones...!
---- The screen goes black.
----------------------
The Division of Labour
----------------------
o-----------------------------------------o
| Which party do you want to play first? |
| |
| Harv-5, Windleaf and Stinger |
| Jirina, Clemett and Xero |
o-----------------------------------------o
===============================================================================
21. RETURN TO WYLDERN 0210
===============================================================================
---------
World Map
---------
There are three green birds upside down and sideways after entering the Eyre
Crater map.
o------------------------o
| Petroglyphs placed to |
| discourage travellers |
| from going to Eyre. |
| For some reason, birds |
| seem to die when they |
| enter this region. |
o------------------------o
-----------
Eyre Crater
-----------
Setting: Eyre Crater and the Mole.
Clemett: Which one of you wants to hold this 'Urn of Order' thing the Magi
gave us?
I don't wanna break...
...it.
Xero: Something wrong, old man?
Clemett: Oh, I'm great. Swell. Just fabulous!
Jirina: Spit it out.
Clemett: That's probably the oldest Mole on Arkose.
These things are brutal when they stall during a dig...
Jirina: Stall... You mean this might stop working before we get to
Wyldern?
Clemett: Yep.
Xero: I don't think we have any choice.
Clemett: We always have a choice.
Jirina: No, we don't. We must enter. Come.
Clemett: It's your funeral...
Jirina: Maybe... But I think not today.
Lou: What's this? A bonehead convention?
Jirina: Then again...perhaps you have a point, mechanic.
Clemett: Great grimy tools of the heavens! LOU?!? This is Lou's machine?
Lou: Well, well, well... What brought you from under your rock, Clemett?
Clemett: You should talk, grease-monkey. At least I got to stay on Arkose...
Jirina: When you two are finished puffing your chests...we need to get to
Wyldern...
Lou: Like I'm gonna take you there...I've got better things to do!
Jirina: Let me put it to you this way.
If you refuse, your 'better things' will consist of being barely
alive after the beating of the century.
Lou: Since you put if that way...fine. Saddle up!
Clemett: Oh, sacred stamen. I must be losing my mind...I can't believe I'm
letting HIM drive...
Xero: Have faith, old man. If Jirina vouches for him, he must be of good
character.
Jirina: Hardly. He's the only available option.
Xero: Bloody hell.
Lou: Come on, already! We got a long trip to make here!
---- Lou walks around to the back of the Mole, followed by Xero.
FMV.
*******************************************************************************
************************* PLEASE INSERT DISC 2 ********************************
******************************************************************************
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. The Garrison 0211
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They are standing next to the Mole by the tents inside the Garrison.
Jirina: We... We are in the Garrison!
Xero: This is bad...?
Jirina: Yes! It is an enemy installation! What was Lou thinking?!?
---- A sentry walks up to them from the left tent.
Sentry: Hold it right there! All of you...don't move!
Clemett: Uh, oh...
Jirina: Curious... This soldier is Org-Ta... Not a Dargling...
Sentry: Your eyes serve you well, warsister. I see you wear the runes of
Org-Ta also.
Clemett: This is a good thing, right?
Sentry: Yes, strange one. It means you will not die today.
Clemett: Oh is that so? Listen, pal...
Jirina: Relax, mechanic. He is right to be proud. He is Org-Ta.
Clemett: Yeah, well...can he bake?
Jirina: ...
I do not think that matters.
Sentry: I have to report for duty...
Jirina: Hold, sentry. I would know how this place came under the control
of the Org-Ta.
Sentry: Recently, General Pogras was assassinated. We think he was killed
by his own men.
Jirina: HA!
Sentry: Did I say something wrong?
Jirina: No...do continue...
Sentry: Once Pogras was dead, the Dargling troops went berserk and fled...
Soon, only a skeleton force remained here...a force we easily
eliminated.
Jirina: I see. This is good news.
Sentry: The Commander's office is within the caves. You should report to
him...
Xero: Capitol thinking, youngster. You've been quite helpful.
Sentry: Any time.
Jirina: Let's find the Commander and get on with this.
---- The party regroups and the Sentry returns to the tent.
---- Attempt to leave the Fort.
Xero: Think we better go see what the Commander wants before we go.
------
Smithy
-----
Setting: The left hand tent.
Smith: Back in business again!
---- Shows inventory.
Smith: May your path end in victory!
-----------
The Arsenal
-----------
Setting: The right hand tent.
Suzana: Greetings, allies. Our selection of weaponry is limited at this
time.
Your donation of Hexite will help us make more.
---- Shows Inventory.
Suzana: Good luck in the field. Long live the Org-Ta!
--------
Barracks
--------
Setting: Top left hand tent.
Henka: Bah! This stinking perk-sty is our barracks?!
Dulka: Beats sleeping in the Tanglewoods.
Henka: Have you no nose, warbrother?
This place isn't fit for rotten stump grubs, let alone Org-Ta
warriors!
Xero: Trust me... There are worse places to sleep.
Dulka: Who asked you? This is a personal matter!
Xero: Uh, okay. Hang in there...
---- Speak to them both again.
Henka: I can't believe no one but me is bothered by this foul stench!
Dulka: Can't wait to attack Tyr Og Nor. I want Hokum's head on a stick!
------------
"Empty Tent"
------------
Setting: Right hand top tent.
Clemett: Greetings.
Junda: Greetings, allies. How goes the war?
Clemett: Same as always. A lot of walking, a lot of waiting...
Merkut: Right! Then...bam! A few moments of sheer terror.
Junda: I love it. The battlerush!
Merkut: Without it, we would not be Org-Ta. We would be hollow.
Clemett: I suppose.
Still...ever wonder what life will be like after the war?
Junda: ...
Merkut: The war will end?
Junda: War never ends. There are only pauses between battles.
Clemett: That's a pretty grim outlook.
Junda: It is our way, ally. We tried to deny it for years.
Merkut: Now we accept it with open arms.
Long live the Org-Ta!
Clemett: (sigh) May we all be victorious!
---- Speak to them again.
Merkut: The Hokumers sacked my town. Enslaved those who wouldn't fight.
I'll bathe in their blood!
Junda: This Hokum... He'll rue the day he enslaved my people!
------------
Sarge's Tent
------------
Setting: Empty tent nearest the entrance to the pathways.
---- Check the weapon on the ground.
o---------------------------o
| Deekonn Roach Nix (R) |
| (Test on surface first to |
| See if it leaves a stain |
| or mark.) |
o---------------------------o
---- Check the bottles.
o--------------------o
| Moss wine bottles. |
| Empty. |
o--------------------o
--------
War Room
--------
Officer: Hello, allies.
Xero: Hello. How goes the war?
Officer: As good as can be expected.
We've driven the enemy from this area, but the Western Front hasn't
budged.
Xero: I see.
Officer: Unless we get some help from the Banori, we're at a standstill over
there.
Xero: Stand your ground... Hokum can't last forever.
Officer: I hope you're right. We don't have the supplies to fight a long
war.
---- Speak to him again.
Officer: Rumour has it that Hokum's pulling back soon! Back to Tyr Og Nor!
Victory may be in our grasp!
----
Mess
----
Cook: The old Cook had to be taken away...
Poor old fellow. His mind was gone.
Clemett: Will he be all right?
Cook: I believe so. He's in a safe, quiet place.
Unfortunately, someone has to cook. I know how, so I drew the
detail.
I am not pleased. I am Org-Ta! I should be in the field.
Clemett: I'm sure they'll send someone to relieve you soon.
Cook: I hope so. I'm not that good of a cook.
My next fight might be with my own warbrothers!
---- Speak to him again.
Cook: Know any good recipes? I'm running out of ideas!
Clemett: Try beans. Anything with beans.
Cook: Works for me.
-----------------
Officers Quarters
-----------------
Setting: There are various bunks and no-one there.
Xero: Looks like an open barracks.
o----------------------o
| Do you want to rest? |
| |
| Yes |
| No |
o----------------------o
##Select No.
Xero: Hmm...guess there's more work to be done. This place will be here
when we need it.
--------------------------------
Vault, Guard Post and Cell Block
--------------------------------
These are all empty.
----------------
Hall of Hammocks
----------------
Setting: The hammocks are the same and Cerina is still there.
Cerina: It's good to see you. The Commander is in his office.
----------------
Command Quarters
----------------
Setting: The room is the same only this time there is a Commander.
Jirina: Commander. We bring a report. I am...
Commander: Ah, yes. Warsister Jirina and our allies from Apunn-sii.
Jirina: You...know of us?
Commander: That I do...and of your great deeds. this base would not be ours
were it not for you.
Jirina: I...see.
Commander: It took great courage to do what you did...slay Pogras in his
lair...
Jirina: Um...well...heh heh...
Commander: The prisoners we rescued when we took the base told of your valour.
I'm impressed.
I'll spare you the annoyance of an award ceremony and give these
to you now, privately.
o------------------------o
| The Commander gives |
| Runes of the Org-Ta to |
| the party |
o------------------------o
Commander: Now that we're officially back in business, you'll find these
helpful when travelling.
Jirina: Many thanks, Commander. I am humbled by your trust and praise.
Clemett: Pardon me for interrupting the praise-fest, but...
Commander: Yes...?
Clemett: How goes the war? We have a mission to complete, and we need some
intel!
Commander: Well...our ranks grow every day. There is a growing confidence
since our victory here.
The darlings stationed here have been routed. Some of them
escaped...
Jirina: No doubt to be hunted and eliminated later, I presume.
Commander: For the most part. However, a few partisans remain...
Xero: Sounds like the situation has changed drastically.
Commander: Indeed.
You mentioned a mission... What can I do for you?
Jirina: We need a boat.
Commander: For what purpose?
Jirina: An artefact we seek is at the end of the river. We must reach it,
quickly.
Commander: I...see. Unfortunately, we haven't a boat available.
Many of them were taken by the enemy when we drove them from here.
Those that remained were destroyed in a fire...during the battle.
Jirina: This is unfortunate. We will lose precious time travelling by
land.
Commander: Be at ease. I shall have a new boat constructed.
Clemett: That's be great, eh. We'd appreciate it.
Commander: It sill take some time. We will make it happen as quick as
possible.
Jirina: Anything we an do to help while we wait?
Commander: Hmm. As a matter of fact...
Clemett: I knew he'd say that. And here I thought we'd get a rest!
Xero: You should live so long, old man.
Commander: The village of Michi has been attacked recently.
Jirina: Let me guess...by the remaining Darglings?
Commander: Correct.
Jirina: Michi...my grandmother was born there.
Unfinished business... We will look into it. At once.
Commander: Very well, warsister. May your path end in victory.
Jirina: Long live the Org-Ta!
---- Speak to him again.
Commander: Greetings, allies. The boat is almost finished. How fares Michi?
Jirina: Michi still has a guerilla problem.
Commander: I see. You must return to battle at once! Those people are
depending on you.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Michi Village 0212
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There are three Darg Orgs running around the village.
Shirz: You gotta help us! We're being attacked left and right by the
hoodlums left over from Hokum's army!
Jirina: They must have been hiding in the forest...probably growing
hungrier and hungrier...
Shirz: Just when we think it's safe to come out...boom! We're attacked
again.
In fact, they've grown so brazen that they just wander around the
town now, looking for things to swipe!
Xero: Why not just throttle 'em! Give 'em a black eye?
Shirz: Yeah, right. Like we have the firepower and people to trample
Hokum's heroes!
We can barely button our flies in the morning...
Uh, no offence, honey.
Jirina: None taken. You need help.
Clemett: Wouldn't mind vaporising a few disgruntled followers of Hokum.
In fact, I'd kind of like that. Let's have at 'em!
Jirina: It's not like we have a lot to do until the boat has been
constructed for us...
Shirz: Now you're talking!
Once again, we'd be most grateful. We just want to have our lives
back again...
---- The party reforms.
---- Speak to him again.
Shirz: Have at 'em!
Visit the Inn
-------------
Feegus: You wanna sleep at the inn? Then sweep up the thugs around town.
Elsewise I ain't got any use for ya, and I don't want ya here.
---- Speak to him again.
Feegus: Get outta my face!
Marqu's Shop
-----------
Marqu: We're outta everything. Those thugs outside are taking everything
that arrives in town!
I'd be might thankful if you used those shiny weapons of yours to
chase 'em away!
---- Speak to him again.
Marqu: You still here? Don't see why. I have nothing to show you!
The Left Three Tents
--------------------
Setting: There is some additional conversation before defeating the Darg Orgs.
Pasha: I give up. It's no use fighting Hokum's hoards...
(Should be: "hordes")
I might as well just throw myself at their feet...let 'em trample me
out of my misery...
Malio: They're out there. I know they are.
They're hunting us. Taking us down one at a time...
Please do something.
Anything!
Kill them!
Kill them!
Jirina: I'll do whatever you want. Just...
Malio: KILL THEM!!
Jirina: We're working on it.
Malio: Not hard enough! Go! Be gone!
---- Speak to her again.
Malio: Kill, kill, kill...
Sarif: Oh, dear... So many fatalities... So much destruction...
Please beat up the bad boys. Please!
--------------------
Defeat the Darg Orgs
--------------------
Setting: There are no more Darg Org's running around. Speak to Shirz.
Shirz: Well, ya did it! If I were any younger, I'd join forces with ya!
Jirina: Just vow to fight Hokum as best you can. Even you can make a
difference!
Sometimes just having a good attitude can save the day!
Shirz: Now I know that it is possible, I'll fight the enemy tooth and nail!
Travel safe, kids!
---- Speak to him again.
Shirz: Now that we know we can stand up to Hokum's ghouls, we feel alive
again!
And just knowing you heroes are around perks up the whole village!
Here's to you!
Marqu's Shop
------------
Marqu: Step right up. Everything's priced to sell!
---- Shows inventory.
Marqu: Let's use our items wisely.
A Humble Inn
------------
Feegus: I'm...sorry about how I treated you a while ago.
I didn't mean it. I as ready to give up. To give in...
At any rate, I'd be proud if you decided to stay here for the
night!
You want some shut eye?
Yes
No.
The Three Huts
--------------
Sarif: I know you're not miracle workers, but...could you keep an eye out
for my ...friend..
He looks, well...average but wears, uh...red lipstick...
Send him my way, or I'll hit the highway... Sob...sob...
---- Speak to her again.
Sarif: Lordy, lordy, lordy..
Malio: You killed them.
You killed them!
They're DEAD!!!
I feel so relieved!
Now, if only my boyfriend would just walk in that door.
He wears the most gorgeous ruby red lipstick...
Oh, I fear for his life...
---- Speak to her again.
Malio: We're waking up! We're taking responsibility!
Hokum's thugs won't ever abuse us again!
Pasha: We have hope now. You gave us that!
Oh, and by the way...
Let me know if you see my husband anywhere.
No one seems to know where he is!
He's average height, average weight, has brown hair and eyes, has
spent his life doing menial labour...
...and like to wear ruby red lipstick.
Keep your eyes peeled. Okay?
Stinger: If we see him, we'll send him your way...
---- Speak to her again.
Pasha: If only I could find my man...
------------------------------------------
Return to the Command Quarters in the Fort
------------------------------------------
Commander: Well met, allies. your boat is ready for travel. How fares Michi?
Jirina: Secure and free, Commander.
Commander: Very good. I wish I had a legion of fighters like you!
The boat is near the river. It's all yours. Good luck.
---- Speak to him again.
Commander: We're taking losses out there, but we're advancing. Time's running
out for Hokum!
===============================================================================
22. BANORI CAVERNS 0220
===============================================================================
---------
The Jetty
---------
Setting: After landing at the jetty in front of the Banori Caverns the group
disembark.
Jirina: Be cautious. DO not make sudden moves. The Banori are extremely
suspicious and warlike.
Clemett: Check.
Xero: But there's no one here!
Kirina: Oh, they are here all right...
Banori: Invaders! ATTACK!
Jirina: Hold! We come in peace. Do not make us hurt you.
Banori: Ha! This Orgess has spirit! She will make a comely slave!
Clemett: Boy, did YOU just say the WRONG thing, friend!
Jirina: Insolent curs! I'll wear your teeth in a necklace!
I'll use your empty skulls to grow herbs!
I'll...!
Xero: Now, hold on... There's been a misunderstanding..
Clemett: Never mind that, Head! These goons want a fight!
Shaman: Quit wasting time! Dashau wants them alive.
Banori: By your command, O Mystical one. Prepare the vapour...
...FIRE!
---- Green vapour surrounds the party.
Jirina: ...ggggnnn...
C...cowarrrddsss...
Clemett: Uh, oh... Head! Run for it!
Xero: ZZZZZZZZZ...
---- Jirina and Xero collapse. Xero's head is upside down.
Clemett: Dandy...
Shaman: Humph. This one' immune to vapour.
Well, if you want a job done right...
Clemett: Gonna be rough doin' that job when you're a corpse...
Shaman: I think not.
Clemett: N...no...fair...
...zzzzzz...
---- Clemett collapses.
Shaman: Take them to Dashau. Judgement awaits.
---- The screen goes black.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Inside the Caverns
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------
A Regal Cavern
--------------
Setting: Inside a cave with a red rug and large red chair. There are gold
ornaments and three Banori, as well as the party members. Dashau, the
leader, is a grey/blue colour and the other two are brown.
Clemett: Nngh... Can't move...
Jirina: Banori venom... Paralyses the muscles. Most effective...
Xero: How bloody rude! We came in peace and...
S'Tarr: SHUT YOUR HOLE, abomination!
Lakkis: You are in the presence of Dashau, and will speak when spoken to!
Jirina: Need I remind you of the 'Pays'hom Accords?'
We have rights as prisoners of war!
Lakkis: No longer. Servants of Hokum are not covered by the Accords.
Xero: Now see here! We're not servants of Hokum!
Dashau: Have you any proof?
Jirina: Search our gear. You'll find we all bear Runes of Org-Ta.
Dashau: Lakkis... See to it.
---- Lakkis leaves the cave.
Jirina: We are defenders of the realm. Positions earned with blood and
pain.
This treatment is an outrage!
Dashau: If you are of Org-Ta, you will have my deepest apologies.
If you are not, I will have S'Tarr disembowel you with a spoon.
Fair enough?
Jirina: As you say.
---- Lakkis returns.
Lakkis: They speak the truth. All three carry the Runes. They are
Org-Ta.
Dashau: That is good enough for me.
S'Tarr: But my liege! They could have taken the Runes from dead bodies!
Dashau: You are young, S'Tarr, so I will forgive that outburst.
Org-Ta runes are blood-linked. None may touch them but the
rightful owner.
Lakkis: Those who do...suffer pain. Even the slightest touch burns.
Trust me... It's rather unpleasant.
S'Tarr: A thousand apologies, liege.
Dashau: It is I who must apologise. Our guests have been poorly treated.
Jirina: We are Org-Ta. We can take worse.
Dashau: So I remember. It was not that long ago that our people were at
war...
Jirina: Indeed.
Dashau: I am pleased to see the Org-Ta walk the land again.
Jirina: I hope we can work together to rid the land of the vile invader.
Dashau: Yes. Hokum. Death to him, and all who follow him!
Jirina: Our goals are one..
Dashau: Are they indeed? Do you seek to slay Hokum?
Xero: Er...after a fashion. We seek an artefact.
Clemett: This artefact will make a...weapon that will rid Hokum of his
power.
Jirina: Without his fangs...claws...
Dashau: ...he will collapse.
Where is this artefact?
Jirina: We believe it to be near the Serene Gardens.
Dashau: Ah. Most unfortunate.
Clemett: Why's that, eh?
Dashau: The river has been clocked. The enemy has erected a fortress upon
the dam.
Lakkis: Passage to the lands of Toparri is blocked.
Dashau: With the fall of Pays'hom to the east, and the enemy to the west,
our time draws short.
Jirina: You are misinformed. Pays'hom stands free.
Dashau: Sacred fathers! This is good news!
Lakkis: The enemy lacks reinforcements. The time to strike is now!
Dashau: We have been preparing a strike for sometime...
Lakkis: Despite their numbers, we mean to assault the enemy fortress.
Dashau: It is our only option... We will not die in our homes.
Xero: This situation sounds a little suicidal to me.
Clemett: I dunno... It won't be so bad if you use siege engines.
Dashau: Siege...engines? Of what do you speak, strange one?
Clemett: Siege weapons! You know... Catapults... Ballista...
Dashau: I am sorry. I do not know of these things.
Jirina: Nor do I.
Clemett: Then it's high time I educated you!
Simply put... Catapults let you throw big heavy things from a great
distance.
Xero: Said 'big heavy things' do tremendous damage when they land.
Clemett: Extremely useful when attacking fixed locations...like a fortress.
Putting one together quickly will be rough...
Dashau: You'll have all the resources you need.
Clemett: Then... I think it can be done!
Dashau: After we assemble this... 'kat ee pult'...will you help us use it?
Clemett: You bet!
Dashau: Excellent. Until the weapon is ready, please... Be our guests.
Jirina: We'd be honoured.
Dashau: Keep checking in with me. When we are ready, we shall strike!
Clemett: Sounds like a plan. Now...give me your best minds. We've got a
catapult to build!
o-------------------------------------o
| After the Catapult Design Meeting...|
o-------------------------------------o
------------------
Outside the Cavern
-------------------
Setting: The party are standing outside one of the caverns. There are ladders
leading up and down to other levels with other caverns.
Clemett: Whew! That was exhausting!
Xero: Think they can make your Catapult, old man?
Clemett: Oh, yeah. They're sharp, these Banori.
Jirina: War is in their blood. They will not fail you.
Clemett: Great. Let's find a place to rest, eh?
---- They join together again. If they try to leave the Caverns.
o-----------------------------o
| We should probably stick |
| with the Banori now. Their |
| fight is ours. |
o-----------------------------o
---- Speak to the Banori at the exit.
Akindau: Hey! You guys are the Org-Ta!
Jirina: That's right.
Akindau: I'm Akindau. I'm gonna be a great warrior like you!
Jirina: Don't be so eager for battle. When it comes, you may not be so
pleased.
Akindau: Yeah, that's what everyone says. (sigh)
I may not get to find out, since I'm still on guard duty.
Jirina: Everyone has a part to play.
Akindau: Well, my part stinks! I'm a warrior, not a prison warden!
I don't know why we hold on to that smelly beast, anyway.
Jirina: Beast...?
Akindau: Yeah... One of Hokum's creatures. They call it...what?
Oh, yeah. A stalker!
Jirina: We'd better check this out.
Akindau: Um...well...I'm not supposed to let you in...
Jirina: Don't worry. We're Org-Ta. We can handle it.
Akindau: Okay...but if you get caught, I don't know you!
Jirina: Right.
---- Speak to him again.
Akindau: I hate guard duty!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Right Hand Caverns
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
Murta's Inn
-----------
Setting: The cavern at the bottom right. One Banori is present and there is a
cave to the right with the swop place.
Murta: Well, now! Been some time since there's been an Org in here!
Jirina: Is there a problem?
Murta: Not with you, war-sister. Your money's as good as any Banori's.
It's these...creatures with you that i"m taking issue with.
Jirina: Know, war-sister, that these "creatures" are my brothers...
Murta: They...are Org-Ta? Is that allowed?
Jirina: It is. Or do you forget the tale of Grisnil?
Murta: Ah. Yes. The 'Banori-who-fought-as-Org'. I stand corrected.
My apologies, war-brothers. Welcome to my rest-place.
Clemett: Glad to be here.
Xero: Oh, quite. The decor is smashing!
Murta: Will you be staying? The cost is 100 Hexite.
Yes
No.
---- Whatever you choose, there is no response. Speak again.
Murta: Greetings, allies of Banori. Will you be staying?
The cost is 100 Hexite...Goes directly to the war effort!
-----------
A Residence
-----------
Setting: The cavern above the Inn. There are two Banori and a table and
chairs and a wardrobe.
Palla: Husband! Intruders!
Ludda: Right you are, dear. Battle pattern 4!
Jirina: Hold! Peace!
Ludd: Dearest...did you hear? An Org...said the word 'peace'?
Palla: I heard! Be wary... It may be a trick.
Jirina: It is not. We are Org-Ta. We speak truthfully.
Ludd: Well, there you are! The legendary Org-Ta... And in our cave!
Palla: Honoured Mothers! I wish I had time to clean up!
Jirina: Truly, things have changed among the Banori...
Xero: They remind me of Karillonians.
Ludd: Can I get anyone a beverage?
Clemett: That'd be great, eh. Got any of that nightshine?
Ludd: Isn't it a little early for that?
Clemett: I'm on Arkose time, eh. It's night up there.
Ludd: Arkose...?
Jirina: My brothers are from Apunn'sii.
Palla: Apunn'sii...oh, I wish I studied my Org harder!
Ludd: It means "above the sky", dear. The so-called 'outer world' of
myth.
Palla: Well, dear, I hate to tell you, but the myth looks pretty real!
Ludd: You said it, honey.
Xero: Are you sure they're not Karillonians in a costume?
Jirina: Be quiet, Head.
Ludd: Well! Visitors! Make yourself at home!
---- Speak to them again.
Palla: I sure am glad you people are out there! I can't abide warfare!
Ludd: Boy, I sure hope this war ends soon! Darned bad for business!
---- Check the pot on the fire.
o------------------------o
| Pot of red fruit soup. |
| Smells BAD! |
o------------------------o
----------------
Dimnaak's Grotto
----------------
Setting: A cave with a nice turquoise chair a cooking pot and desk. There is
one Banori.
Dimnaak: So! The Org-Ta have come to torment tired old Dimnaak!
Jirina: You are mistaken. It is not our way to torment old people.
Dimnaak: Heh! You might think twice about that if you knew anything about
my past!
Jirina: Oh?
Dimnaak: There was a time when my name was spoken in whispers! Fearsome was
I...so long ago.
Jirina: Dimnaak... Yes...I remember now... My father spoke of you.
You were called Apunn'dri... Death from above.
Dimnaak: Indeed! That I was...
Jirina: You are fortunate the Accords are in effect.
Dimnaak: Oh?
Jirina: Were they not, I would slaughter you where you stand.
Dimnaak: Down, girl! I tell you of my past, and you hold your hate in
check.
Dimnaak: Come visit me again. We can share tales of glory, yes?
Clemett: Take is easy, old one. She may not be able to bridle her hate
forever, eh?
---- Speak to him again.
Dimnaak: Make a wood-carving! It'll last longer!
Ghouls! Leave an old man alone!
---- Check the cooking pot, large urn and desk.
o-----------------------------o
|Chamber pot/cooking vessel. |
| (They do things differently |
| down here.) |
o-----------------------------o
o--------------------o
| Umbrella stand. |
| mainly decorative. |
o--------------------o
o-----------------o
| The Banori Book |
| of Slavedom |
o-----------------o
--------------
Venna's Cavern
--------------
Setting: A well furnished cavern with bed, bright red armchair and pictures on
the walls. Venna is grey and old.
Venna: My, my, my. The bones were right.
Xero: Bones...?
Venna: From breakfast. I did a divination on 'em afterwards.
Xero: I see. And what did they tell you?
Venna: "Curious people from other lands will visit you today."
Clemett: Sure they did, old girl. And the cheese told you our names!
Venna: Actually my son took care of that. You've met him...Dashau.
Jirina: Then...you would be the Warmother, Venna.
Vanna: That's right, warsister. I see someone taught you well. You know
our ways.
Jirina: My father fought in the wards. He had a deep respect for the
Banori.
Venna: Knew your father...or, rather, knew of him.
Jirin-maj was his name. He gave my generals fits. Cunning and
fierce he was...
Jirina: You honour my family with your praise, Warmother.
Venna: It is deserved. I'm glad you're on our side!
Jirina: It is a sensible choice. Divided, we would all perish.
Venna: Indeed.
So...Clemett, is it? My son tells me you have given us a great new
weapon.
Clemett: That's right, er...Warmother.
Xero: If all goes according to plan, it'll help your troops rout the
enemy!
Venna: Good to hear. You two have good hearts. This isn't your war, yet
you join in without flinching.
Xero: Well, Warmother... When it gets down to it, the fight against Hokum
is one we all share.
Honour demands that we all do our part.
Venna: Yes... Well, you've things to tend to. May your path end in
victory!
Jirina: May success be yours, Warmother.
---- The party regroups. Speak to her again.
Venna: United, our two worlds cannot fall. Victory over Hokum shall be
ours!
---- Check the urn and bed.
o---------------------o
| Sacred ashes to the |
| fore bearers. |
o---------------------o
o--------------------------o
| Fine example of a Banori |
| stone bed (covered with |
| hand-knitted spread). |
o--------------------------o
--------------
Pelikoko's Pad
--------------
Setting: The top left cave which only has a pot and a table and a stool.
There is another inner cave where the party finds a War Glyph.
Pelikoko: Hello, hello! Who's this in my home?
Jirina: Pardon the intrusion. We are visitors...
Pelikoko: Big ones, too! Well, except for the floating...head, right?
You are a head, aren't you? And...are you alive?
Xero: Yes to both questions.
Pelikoko: Good! I'm not going senile, after all.
Now...I know an Orgress when I see one...but you, mister...
Clemett: I am a Gadgeteer.
Pelikoko: Gadge-whose?
Jirina: He is from Apunn-sii, elder.
Pelikoko: Really? I'll be damned! My old mum, rest her soul, used to tell
tales of that place.
Never thought I'd see the day.
Clemett: Well, who knows? Maybe some time you can visit us up above!
Pelikoko: There's a notion! Though, I believe there's an army out there that
sees things otherwise...
Jirina: Worry not about that rabble. Their time is going to come.
Pelikoko: Heh! Let's hope it's a bad time, yes?
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Pelikoko: Sure like that idea about going to Apunn-sii... That I do...
Jirina: A War Glyph...
Clemett: Come again?
Jirina: This is a Glyph of Worldmight. Of Orgish origin, no less.
Xero: Is that what you call an Earth Charm down here in Wyldern?
Jirina: Hmph! Yes.
We have respect for such items. We do not give them such...
frivolous names.
Clemett: Hey...why don't we call them 'War Charms' and be happy?
Xero: ...
Jirina: ...
Clemett: Okay, bad idea. Let's grab 'em and move on.
o-------------------------------o
| Earth Twitch Attack unlocked. |
o-------------------------------o
---- Check the desk and shelves, for the book title and urns.
o--------------------o
|The NEW Art of War. |
o--------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Ashes of those killed in |
| battle. These bring power |
| and positive mojo to the |
| house of Pelikoko. |
o----------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Left Hand Caverns
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
Merchant
--------
Setting: The shop on the ground level. There are four Banori in here and some
weapons and barrels and red fruit on tables.
Dezz: Sacred Fathers and Honoured Mothers!
The end has came! Our cowardly leaders have caved in. The enemy
is upon us!
Well, so be it. Get ready to die, creatures!
Clemett: Real genius we got here, eh?
Jirina: He had better realise the error of his ways soon...
Or I will educate him.
Xero: Best to settle down, lad. The lady is a harsh tutor.
Dezz: Wait a minute... You mean you're not invaders?
Jirina: No, you puny, yapping waste of flesh! We are Org-Ta!
Dezz: Psst... Fellas... That's good, right?
Clemett: That's good.
Jirina: Buffoon!
Dezz: Please don't let her kill me.
Clemett: Go easy, big gal. He can't help it if he's ignorant.
Jirina: Feh!
Xero: I say, merchant... What are you selling today?
Dezz: Huh...? Oh! Yeah! Take a look...
---- Shows inventory.
Dezz: Uh, long like to you. Heh heh. Nice Org...heh heh heh...
---- Speak to him again.
Dezz: Best goods in the land! The Org-Ta shop here...
It's gotta be good!
---- Shows inventory.
Dezz: Got to love a wartime economy!
Gellan: My sight may be gone, but my wares are still second to none!
---- Shows inventory.
Gellan: Thank you for your consideration.
---- Speak to the Banoris standing at the right and left.
Kimil: Peaceful greetings to the Org-Ta.
Jirina: And to you, merchant. It is pleasing to see respect.
Kimil: Those who walk war's path are my best customers. Respect is
essential if I am to prosper.
Xero: Well spoken, madam.
Kimil: Madam...?
Jirina: It is a title of respect among their kind, merchant.
Kimil: I am honoured.
Clemett: Hey...this is high-quality work, eh?
Jirina: Indeed. The Banori are skilled weaponsmiths.
Kimil: A family tradition. Eight generations have made the tools of war
with pride.
Clemett: It shows! Check this out, guys...
---- Kimil shows her inventory.
Kimil: May your path end in victory!
---- Speak to her again.
Kimil: May you find wares that please you, followers of war's path.
Mekon: Sa'Boooosht! What kind of things do you bring here, Org?
Jirina: Mind your manners, little man. These men are Org-Ta.
Mekon: Org-Ta, you say? Ah! Good! Welcome, men of battle!
Clemett: It's nice to be loved.
Xero: Indeed.
Mekon: You'll not find finer armour anywhere...
Jirina: Is that so?
Mekon: Er...anywhere else in the Caverns! Yes...heh heh. Come! See for
yourself!
---- Shows inventory.
Mekon: May your life be long and successful!
---- Speak to him again.
Mekon: Step up! Look 'em over! Best armour to be found!
Come back soon!
-----------------
Tustra's Cavehome
------------------
Setting: A well-furnished, but messy cave with tables, cupboards, rugs and a
red rocking chair.
T'ustra: Hello. You must be the Org-Ta everyone's talking about.
Jirina: I must be.
T'ustra: I wish you success. Slay as many of them as you can.
Xero: Er...well...if it comes to that, certainly.
Jirina: Are you a war-sister?
T'ustra: No. My husband... My husband follows your path. May he sit in
darkness at the centre of the world forever!
Jirina: Did he leave you a...widow?
T'ustra: No. he hasn't the honour. Instead, he betrayed us all.
His name is Venal... I expect you shall see his treachery soon
enough!
Jirina: Venal. One of Hokum's generals.
T'ustra: Yes, the accursed wretch! To think I shared a bed with him! It
sickens me.
Both of our sons have died in battle, in their attempts to clear
our family name.
Now there is only me...dishonoured and alone.
Jirina: ...
Have faith, sister. Peace may find you yet.
T'ustra: Perhaps. I wish you success.
---- The group reforms. Check the urn and chair.
o--------------------------o
| Urn containing the mixed |
| ashes of the sacred |
| fore bearers. |
o--------------------------o
o-------------------------o
| Wildwood medicated |
| rocking chair. |
| Use once a day for |
| maximum stress release. |
o-------------------------o
--------------
Storage Grotto
-------------
Setting: A cave with various pots and crates and ladders stored.
Talma: Hail, to those who revere warfare in all its glory!
Jirina: Hail to you!
Talma: General Vakkis told me to let you stock up. But not too much!
Jirina: Thanks. We appreciate it.
Talma: Hey, I'm glad to have someone to talk to!
It gets boring guarding a bunch of junk!
---- Speak again.
Telma: Nice to see you.
o--------------------------o
| Sacred stretchers... |
| For carrying the remains |
| of those who have fallen |
| in battle. |
o--------------------------o
---------------------
Top Left Unnamed Cave
---------------------
Setting: There is a large monster behind some bars and two Banori.
Morgul: Hey! What are you guys doing in here?
Furgrim: This area's off-limits.
Xero: UHNDRASH'S SOILED UNDERGARMENTS ALIVE!
They've corralled a Stalker!
Clemett: Why haven't you killed it?
Morgul: We're finding out what makes it tick.
Furgrim: We're creating new poisons...better venom...
Clemett: And you're testing them on IT? isn't that a little morbid?!
Morgul: Your weak stomach is of no concern to us!
Fugrim: It's only fair! haven't you heard what they've done to our
people?!
---- The Stalker growls.
Morgul: Look! It's awake!
Furgrim: Give it another shot. That'll shut it up.
---- Suddenly the monster breaks through the gates and advances.
Morgul: What the...!
Furgrim: It's LOOOOOOOOSE! Run for your lives!
Morgul: Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaalp!
---- The two Banori run away.
Xero: Oh, this is just bloody fantastic!
Clemett: Figures. These things follow us wherever we go, eh?
Jirina: Shut up and fight! We've civilians to protect!
For the Org-Ta!
For Victory!
Clemett: For the hell of it...!
---- Battle.
Clemett: Gaaaahk! I'll never get over how bad these things STINK!
Xero: N...nor shall...I...(cough)
Jirina: Reeks like an ambulatory morgue...whew!
Clemett: Let's get...outta here, eh?
---- The party regroups.
------------------------
A Regal Cavern Revisited.
------------------------
Return to Dashau before Killing the Stalker
-------------------------------------------
Dashau: Construction on the Catapult has begun. The troops make ready.
Soon, we will attack!
In the meantime, feel free to meet my people. Get to know the
Banori well...for soon you will fight for them!
---- Speak to the other two Banori.
S'Tarr: You may be Org-Ta, but when battle comes...
The glory will belong to the Banori!
Jirina: You're a poet and didn't know it, S'Tarr...
Lakkis: This...catapult of yours. Dashau believes in it. It had better
work.
Should it fail, I will find and kill you myself.
---- Check the things in the room.
o---------------------------o
| The regal cider goblet... |
o---------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Books, every one of which |
| is about some aspect |
| of warfare... |
o---------------------------o
Return after killing the Stalker
--------------------------------
S'Taa: Bah! In killing that...beast, you're only finishing work I
started!
Jirina: Is that so?
S'Tarr: It is! It was I who hunted it... Captured it. The kill should
have been mine!
Lakkis: Thank you for ridding us of that foul creature. I trust you are
all intact?
---- Talk to the Guard at the entrance to the caverns.
Akindau: Wow! you guys kicked that thing's hump!
I wish I could've got a hit in!
Dashau: Allies of the Banori! The time draws near.
The Catapult is ready. My troops are eager for battle. Are you
ready to attack?
Yes
No.
#Select No.
Dashau: I see. Prepare yourselves. Collect your supplies. Return to me
when you are ready.
##Select Yes.
Dashau: Then let us strike! Good luck to you!
DEATH TO THE FORCES OF HOKUM!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. The Catapult 0222
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
Catapult
--------
Setting: The fort walls have been broken and the three party members are
standing on a small hill looking at the destruction.
Clemett: Woooo-haaaa! We did it!
Jirina: Truly amazing... This weapon has demolished the fortress...ended
the blockade!
Xero: Looks like we've done our part.
Clemett: It's like I always tell you, Head...science has it's uses!
Xero: I'll give you that, old man.
Jirina: Hold... I hear something...
Clemett: I don't hear anything...
Xero: Wait...there!
Jirina: Scatter! Something comes from above!
---- They move and look to the left as a red winged figure comes into
view and lands.
Jirina: General Venal, I presume.
General
Venal: That's correct, you Orgish piece of offal!
This infernal machine may have won the battle...but for you, the
war ends...
Here and now!
Clemett: Buddy, you just said the magic words.
Jirina: Indeed. This battle did not feel complete until this moment.
Cleansing through combat...I shall feel the enemy's throat under my
boot!
General
Venal: Come, Orgess... Come and we shall see whose boot does the crushing!
Xero: Traitorous vermin! you sold your people for power...
Now you shall reap the benefits of the damned!
---- Battle.
Jirina: Ahhh... Another tyrant falls to the righteous.
Victory for the Org-Ta!
Xero: Don't shout that too TOO loud, dear girl...the Banori are around,
after all...
Clemett: Yeah...they might not take too kindly to us taking credit for
winning their war.
Jirina: Humph! The Banori would be under the yoke of Hokum were it not for
us...
...but I shall honour your request. LEt them wallow in their
hollow victory.
Xero: That's the spirit...I think...
Jirina: The spirits of the dead...They all know the true story.
Clemett: Yeah, and they, like us are gonna keep their mouths shut about it!
Jirina: For now...
Xero: Er...quite. What say we join our Banori allies?
Clemett: Yeah! There's bound to be a victory celebration soon!
Jirina: As you wish.
o-----------------------------o
| After a considerable amount |
| of partying... |
o-----------------------------o
--------------
A Regal Cavern
--------------
Setting: The three are inside the Regal Cavern. There are no Banori.
Clemett: Uuhhhhgh. My pounding head...
Xero: Ditto... For some reason I see to be especially susceptible to the
effects of such beverages.
Clemett: Well...you are a tad light in the body mass department...
Jirina: I tried to warn you both. Banori cider is...potent.
Clemett: Sure tastes food, though.
Xero: You should know...you drank four punchbowls full of the stuff...
Jirina: Says the man who floated in a cider keg all night.
---- Dashau appears infront of his chair.
Dashau: Greetings, noble allies!
Clemett: There you are. We were beginning to think you might not make it.
Dashau: Nonsense! It takes more than revelry to slow the scion of the
Banori King!
Jirina: Humph!
Clemett: We're glad we could do you part here, Dashau...but...
Xero: We do need to move on. Our mission demands it.
Dashau: Ah, yes. i wish you luck, friends.
The lands of the Toparri are not to be travelled lightly.
Xero: We'll be ready. So much depends on it...
Clemett: The least of which is our lives, eh Head?
Dashau: Travel swift and strike true, my friends. Know that we are in your
debt... We shall never forget you.
Xero: Likewise. Good luck to you Dashau.
---- Speak to him again.
Dashau: With their defeat at the Blockade the enemy's forces begin to
collapse. Soon, victory will be ours!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Banori Tanglewoods 0223
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------
Banori Trading Post
-------------------
Setting: This is a cave situated at the river bend. There are many odd items.
Gunther: Hail and well met, brave warriors!
Jirina: Hello to you too.
Gunther: Lemme guess, your here 'cause of the strange goings on upriver,
ain'tcha?
Jirina: Well, we...
Gunther: It's those damned Toparri, or my name is Keerg!
Jirna: ...were hoping for...
Gunther: They're up to no good, as usual. Gotta keep close tabs on that
bunch, for sure.
Jirian: ...some supplies...
Gunther: I hear it's some kinda cult up there. Betcha they even dance
nekkid around fires, too!
Clemett: Thanks for the informations, but...
Gunther: So are you going to yak my ear off all day, or do you want to buy
something?
Yes
No
#Select No.
Gunther: Go on then, get your butts outta here. I'm a busy man.
What can I do yer for?
---- Shows inventory.
Gunther: Thanks again!
---------
World Map
---------
Further on from the Trading Post, and south of the landing on the left bank of
the river, there is the grey head of large mole.
o----------------------------o
| Caution! |
| Limb snapping 'weremoles' |
| abound. Use caution. |
o----------------------------o
------------------
Banori Tanglewoods
------------------
Setting: Inside the woods.
Clemett: Well...end of the line.
Xero: At least as far as river travel's concerned.
Jirina: This is where it gets interesting.
Clemett: Oh? How's that, eh?
Jirina: We are in Toparri country. This land is theirs.
Xero: Are the Toparri not a peaceful people?
Jirina: They are believed to be pacifists.
Clemett: So what's the problem?
Jirina: They have...ways of discouraging unwanted guests.
---- There is silence and then someone walks forwards from the left.
Joleno: Be at ease, children of the world. You are most welcome here.
Clemett: What?! I didn't hear him coming!
Xero: Be careful! Don't make nay sudden moves!
Jirina: It...it's a Toparri...
Clemett: It is?
Jirina: Show some respect!
---- She turns and bends one knee.
Clemett: (grumble...mutter)
---- He does the same.
Xero: Er...
Ah...
I have no knees...
Joleno: Rise, all. This is not necessary.
I bring warm greetings to the travellers from above, from the
Toparri people.
Xero: Thank you. It's an honour to meet you, sir.
Joleno: I have come to help you find what you seek.
Clemett: You have? How do you know what we're looking for, eh?
Joleno: Irrelevant. We know, and wish to help. There is nothing more to
say.
Xero: Well... We welcome any assistance you can give...mister...?
Joleno: I am called Joleno. I shall be your guide.
Jirina: G...guide...?
Joleno: Yes, daughter of the Org. Your guide...within the Serene Gardens.
Jirina: No one...not of the Toparri...has ever been inside the Gardens...
Joleno: Know that you are welcome there. Come. The answers you seek lie
within the Gardens.
Clemett: I got a bad feeling about this.
Xero: Hush, old man! This is most fortuitous! The Toparri will make
powerful allies.
Clemett: I hope you're right, Head...
Jirina: We're going...into the Gardens. We are truly blessed, brothers.
Joleno: Come, children. Time passes... We have much to do.
---- They all walk off the screen to the left.
Joleno: Here, within the Gardens, you shall gaze upon the face of the
divine!
Commune. (He waves his arms in the air.)
Mingle.
Speak with the Toparri, for they shall be your guides.
---- Speak to him again.
Joleno: I suggest that you speak with the Lorekeeper.
His dwelling is to the far right, at the edge of the grove.
---- The party is free to walk into the Serene Gardens.
===============================================================================
23. THE SERENE GARDENS 0230
===============================================================================
------------
The Sentinel
-----------
Setting: A large round hut with a tree at the centre and red mushrooms growing
out of the floor.
Rohal: Well met, warriors. I am Rohal of the Toparri.
Xero: Interesting...I thought all your people had names that started with
the letter "J"?
Rohal: Rohal is not my name. It is a title...
It means "Sentinel."
Jirina: You are a guard?
Rohal: I am a warrior. The only one within the gardens.
It is my duty to watch...to be alert for danger.
Clemett: Must be a stressful job with all the leaf-munchers wandering around
here.
Rohal: It can be a burden.
As a sentinel, I a the last resort.
Jirina: Before...
Roahl: Before violence. Extreme violence.
Should all other options fail, I will take action to defend my
race.
I shall unleash a fury and power unseen...the power of nature gone
mad...
Xero: Gods above...
Rohal: Should I perform my dread duty, few on this planet would survive.
And they would all be Toparri...
The first to live...the last survivors.
Jirina: First...and last. The Endgame...
Clemett: So that's why you jokers aren't getting involved!
If you did...BOOM! There goes Arkose!
Rohal: There would be no "boom," but yes, that is essentially correct.
You must defeat Keerg.
Should you fail... It will only be a matter of time...before I
strike.
Clemett: Mother Stamen in the First Garden...
Rohal: Pray for the world... Should you hear my warcry, it will be the
last thing you are aware of...
Clemett: Don't worry about it, eh. You won't be doin' any screaming anytime
soon.
Jirina: On my honour...we will succeed.
Rohal: May your enemies tremble!
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Rohal: I fear Keerg and the Essence are almost one.
------
Jihen
-----
Setting: Jihen is standing on the path in the Gardens.
Jihen: Warm feelings, friends.
Clemett: 'Zat a question or a statement?
Jihen: Neither. It is our way of greeting.
Say...is that the Urn of Order I'm sensing?
Xero: Er...yes, it is.
Jihen: Ah. Then you would be looking for the Essence.
Jirina: That's correct.
Clemett: How d'jya know, eh?
Jihen: I know because I created the Urn.
Xero: YOU made the Urn?! I thought a Mage King...
Jihen: Heh heh. I'm afraid not.
I was one of the Toparri who went to Apunn-sii during the Great
War.
Xero: So, they were true after all...
The tales of strange Arkosians, coming to fight the war...
Jihen: Hardly strange! We advised and helped the Kings during the crisis.
The Urn was y contribution.
Clemett: It's a fine piece of work. I've never seen anything like it.
Jihen: Well, it had to be stout...considering it's purpose.
Never thought I'd see it again...
Xero: Here's hoping this is the last time you do!
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Jihen: Take good care of the Urn. It's tough...but it can be broken!
------------
Jimor's Home
------------
Setting: A round house with a tree growing in the centre and many groups of
red capped mushrooms.
Jimor: Enter freely. Peace be with you all!
Enjoy the life energy of our village!
Xero: Er...thank you.
Jimor: I am Landkeeper. I commune with those within and...without.
You would ask a question?
Jirina: Uh, yes. What can you tell us of the Essence?
Jimor: It's not far.
It stabs and boils and screams and melts...
It is not of this land.
Clemett: Could you narrow that down a little?
Jimor: It is in the hands of a monster, named Keerg.
Xero: Keerg...! I'd hope that the Magi were wrong...
Jimor: You know this monster?
Xero: Only his name. He was once a "great one" to the people above...a
source of inspiration and a symbol of peace...
Jirina: Sympathy aside...he has something we need...and we are running our
of time.
Clemett: Can you tell us more about the Keerg situation?
Jimor: Well, the creature has claimed a corner of the gardens for itself.
Its selfishness has led to a number of regrettable occurrences.
Xero: Such as...?
Jimor: The slow, painful, destruction of life there. Nothing grows where
the Essence boils...
In so many ways, it..."he" is our opposite.
Jirina: We will stop him.
Jimor: I hope you are right. Stop him before Hokum takes him...stripping
him of all sanity.
The Essence belongs elsewhere. The world requires that it go back.
Clemett: Oh, we're gonna send it back, all right...
...and it ain't gonna be pretty when we do!
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Jimor: Keerg's lost his connection to the land.
This makes him weak to that which has ties to the land.
Use this knowledge well.
------------
Jobae's Home
------------
Setting: A round building with a red floor and bright red large tree. There
is a pale blue pool and pink and white large drops hanging from the ceiling.
Jobae is obviously female.
Jobae: Welcome to my humble abode, friends.
Xero: It's quite a wonderful place!
Clemett: Everything's organic! It's completely no-tech!
Jirina: Perfection...
Clemett: More like purgatory! How does anything get done?
Jobae: With our hands... Our wills...
What you might call "magic"...
Clemett: Magic's just another kind of science to me.
Xero: Perhaps you're right...
...but you can't deny the power and elegance here!
Jobae: I am certain I world be just as uneasy in your world, friend
Clemett!
Clemett: I ain't really your "friend," and yes, that's an understatement.
Jobae: We're at opposite ends of the spectrum, you and I.
The others lie somewhere in between us.
Perhaps, in time, we'll get to know each other, to savoir each
other's cultures.
Clemett: Yeah, whatever.
Jobae: I would await such a time.
Clemett: Well, don't hold your breath. We got a lot to do first!
Jobae: May the great spirit protect us all!
Clemett: You said it, pal!
---- The party regroups. Speak to her again.
Jobae: Keerg's is a mind in turmoil.
Recall that water wears away the mighty mountain...be flexible and
never give up.
------------
Jakir's Home
------------
Setting: There is a round pool in the centre and three black and pale green
trees that appear to hold up the roof. At the back of the room is a table
with three white stones on it. Jakir is standing alone.
Jakir: Howdy.
Clemett: Head, did you hear that? Someone said "Howdy...!"
No psychobabble...
No new-age junk...
Just..."Howdy!"
Jakir: Ha! I imagine our mannerisms must be strange to you, Gadgeteer.
Jakir: g'Hi! j'Hul na b'Rin, t'Almmn.
Xero: What?!
Clemett: H...he just said "Hello! Pleased to meet you, esteemed Builder."
It's...a greeting in...in my native tongue.
Jakir: Yes! I am fluent in every language spoken on this world...
...and a few that have long since been forgotten.
Part of my duty is to understand and interact with other races.
It has very nearly been the death of me...
But, enough about me. I'm sure you have questions!
Jirina: Well...we're wondering what you can tell us about the Essence...
Jakir: It is severed flesh from the Darg itself.
Xero: Gods undone!
Jakir: It has two uses.
For the Darg, it is a way of controlling others.
He who holds the Essence is in constant contact with the Darg...
under its dark power.
Through such a vessel, the Darg is capable of manipulating events
in our world.
Clemett: Sounds most unpleasant.
Xero: What is the other use...?
Jakir: Because it is a part of the Darg, it is a crucial element of the
Spell of Banishment.
The Essence focuses the spell...
...becoming a conduit for the other mystic energies. Through it,
the bad mojo reaches the Darg.
Jirina: It would constitute a vital part of the spell...
Clemett: The "vital-est!"
Xero: Do you know where the Essence is?
Jakir: Yes. It is in the hands of a man named Keerg.
Clemett: Keerg...? There's that name again!
Jakir: Keerg has consumed, and has been consumed by the Essence for
decades.
Through him, the Darg has established a foothold in our Gardens.
The Essence is slowly killing the land...rotting the plants,
leeching the soil of life.
It is an attack on us. for without the land, we are
empty...hollow...powerless.
Xero: Tactically, a sound move. The Darg means to eliminate what it sees
as a great threat.
Yes. We can only blame ourselves, though.
We found Keerg years ago, blind, mad and near death.
Clemett: Should've put the dog down...
Jakir: Alas, that is not our way. We nurtured him...removed the Essence
from him...
This restored his health...but his mind was gone.
Without the Essence, he was a blank...without thought.
Jirina: I take it something went wrong.
Jakir: Yes. The Darg's other thrall, Hokum, reached out to Keerg's empty
mind.
Hokum seized control of Keerg and led him like a puppet, to the
Essence.
Clemett: This is pretty.
Jakir: Keerg, under Hokum's control, made contact once more with the
Essence...and that was it.
Now under direct control of the Darg, Keerg fled to a dark corner
of the Gardens.
A place where our power is weak...where the Darg could reach him and
bolster his strength.
Xero: Surely you could have struck back...captured him?
Our way is that of non-violence. We...could not take direct
action.
Jirina: Looks like our path is clear. We must meet this Keerg.
Clemett: Point us in the right direction and we'll clean up your mess!
Jirina: Isn't that a little harsh!
Cleemtt: Anyone who can't get his hands blood to save his own neck gets no
respect from me!
We'll take care of Keerg, don't you worry...
Jakir: You remind me of Nagruk... So fiery...eager to spill blood to prove
a point.
I hope you understand one day...
Clemett: Stuff it, leaf-lover! We've got work to do, eh.
Xero: Er...we do, indeed. Please excuse us, sir.
---- They join together again. Speak to him again.
Jakir: Be sure to avoid lengthy contact with the Essence lest you suffer
Keerg's fate!
---------
Sanctuary
---------
Setting: An inn, with many orange trees holding up the roof.
Jirina: The plants... They're magnificent...
Clemett: Yeah, a true leaf-muncher's nirvana.
Xero: You're being rude...
Jenjo: I take no offence. This is a place of wonders.
A symbol of our symbiosis with nature.
We've decided that this shall be your "space" while you are here.
Clemett: Our "space...?"
Janjo: Yes. When you need to be alone, or among your peers.
A place of rest, and reflection.
Xero: Rather like an Inn, old man.
Clemett: Ah! I get it...
Jirina: Thank you, honoured one. It is a great kindness you share with us.
Janjo: Would you like to rest?
Yes
No
#Select No
Jinjo: So be it. Come back whenever you need refreshment.
Janjo: Your smiles are contagious. See how the plants glow?
Clemett: That's because of us?
Janko: But of course. They sense and respond to your moods.
Clemett: ...
Continue
Save
Quit
##Select Yes. And she leaves, and then returns the next day.
Janjo: Greetings. I trust your time here was refreshing?
Clemett: Yes, quite. Thank you.
---- Now they can save or quit or continue.
---- Speak to her again. Select No.
So be it. This abode shall be here for you, when you need it.
---------------
The Sacred Area
---------------
Setting: this is an open place surrounded with red flat mushrooms and large
thick trees that look a bit like rocks. Jowal is standing in the middle. He
seems to be a child.
Jowal: Joy! Joy Joy!
Clemett: Huh...?
Jowal: New feeling. Pleasure from meeting strange beings!
Xero: I think this one is unaccustomed to speaking...
Jowal: Confusion...mass of conflicting impulses...how can you survive?
No matter! I celebrate your life energy!
jirna: A...as we do yours. Friend.
Jowal: Org Female. Magewarrior. Gadgeteer.
Share all...my things are your things! Enjoy! Take!
Clemett: Thanks a lot, eh?
Some of the stuff around here looks fascinating!
Jowal: Give...take all! Or some!
Xero: You're most gracious, sir.
Clemett: Hope he never goes into business, eh!
Joawl: Verbal intercourse pleasing. Talk again! Please return!
jirina: Thanks...um...we'd like to talk with you again soon, too...
Clemett: Reminds me of a podling.
Xero: Podling...?
Clemett: Er...slang for "baby" back home.
Xero: Your babies...talk in such a fashion?
Clemett: Sure. Don't all babies talk like that?
jirina: Not where I come form. Early worlds are often garbled nonsense.
Clemett: You've got to be kidding!
Jirina: I assure you I am not.
Clemett: How in the grime do you understand 'em or put 'em to work?
Jirijan: It's more a matter of intuition than understanding
Clemett: Sounds like a nasty bucket of frustration to me.
Xero: Perhaps we should go and discuss this over supper...some other day!
---- The group reforms. Speak to him again.
Jowal: Contented feeling. Induced by arrival of friendly beings.
===============================================================================
24. KEERG"S CAMP 0240
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Inside the Camp 0241
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------
The Village Centre
------------------
Setting: There are is a Banori and an Org standing near a small cirle of
stones. The area is surrounded with half a dozen round huts.
Jirina: I do not like this place. it feels wrong.
Clemett: Well, the Toparri told us to be ready for anything.
Xero: Those two can't be the only ones here.
Jirina: They may be hiding in the huts, waiting to ambush us.
---- A priest in bright red robes approaches.
Priest: Hello! It's so very nice to see you! At last!
Clemett: Tell me this doesn't smell fishy...
Priest: Relax, friend. No one here will harm you.
Jirina: If that is the case, you will turn over the Essence of Chaos.
Immediately.
Priest: Certainly! All in good time!
Xero: Just...like that?
Priest: Why not? I'm afraid you've been misled about us, sir.
We're not your enemies. We want to help!
Clemett: Uh, huh...
Preist: Come. Let me show you our village. you will se our intentions are
pure.
Jirina: Proceed.
Priest: Most kind of you! Come...
---- The party regroups and automatically follows the Priest on a tour.
----------------------
Keerg's Daughters' Hut
----------------------
Setting: There are three persons in a hut. One is Banori and two are Darg..
Priest: This is the home of Keerg's Daughters.
Daughter: Hello, friends.
Clemett: Daughters? Must have had different mothers...
Daughter: Hee hee! You misunderstand
Daughter: We are his daughters in spirit only.
Clemett: I stand corrected.
Priest: The Daughters are healers, menders of soul and body.
Daughter: Come to us should you need...anything.
---- They leave and go in the next hut.
Priest: This is the communal area. We gather here to share experiences...to
become one.
Clemett: To become one of...what.
Priest: Through the master's teachings, we can be of one mind, one spirit.
It's a kind of joining...
It is glorious!
---- They leave and go inside the next hut.
----------------
New Arrivals' Hut
----------------
Setting:
Priest: This, should you choose to stay with is, will be your hut.
It is where new arrivals stay, to get accustomed to our ways.
Clemett: Right.
---- They go out to the main area.
Priest: The tour is almost over, friends. Just a bit more to see.
Clemett: Lead on.
Priest: Indeed. Here we go.
---- They walk across to the far right of the village and emerge at a
strange place where there is a hole in the ground and red light.
------------------------
An Unnatural Phenomenom
-----------------------
Setting: A gaping red hole in the ground is surrounded with red rocks.
Xero: Gods above.......or below!
Jirina: What IS that stuff?!
Priest: It is the way... The manifestation of all that is good...
Clemett: You're off your rocker, eh?
Priest: Oh, no. I'm just peachy.
And, soon, all my problems will be gone!
Seize them! Push them against the Rift!
The Chaos Matter will bind them! Tame them!
Clemett: What took ya so long?!
Jirina: Tell me you haven't been converted by these oafs!
Clemett: No! I meant...
...it's about time we broke a few heads.
Xero: I quite agree. Let's get to it!
---- Battle.
Xero: The Essence is nearby.
Jirina: Yes. I feel it too.
Clemett: Goody for you two.
Let's go get it and return to civilisation!
This place is giving me a headache!
---- They regroup.
----------------
The Main Village
----------------
Setting: the open centre of the village again.
---- Speak to the Banori and Darg that are standing near the stones.
Clemett: Can you speak?
Acolyte: OHHHHMMMMMMM...
Clemett: This is going nowhere fast.
Acolyte OHHHMMMMMMMM...
OHHHHMMMMMMM...
Clemett: At least she isn't picking a fight.
Clemett: Hello?
Disciple: Domusomeusremus
Ozzy wozzyrozzy
Ramalamadindon
Clemett: Come again...?
Disciple: Hoodahaddaheeda
Mamma jammaramma
Dinalinndonn
Clemett: Lost cause...
--------
The Cage
--------
Setting: There is a large cage to the left of the hut circle. A Darg Banori is
trapped inside.
Clemett: Looks like they've started a zoo here.
Darg
Banori: Let me out...I beg of you!
Clemett: Let you out? You're kidding, right?
D. Banori: Nnnooo... Let meee ouuuuut!!!
Clemett: I don't think so.
D. Banori: They're going to put me in the rift! Into the bad place!!!
Clemett: Why would they do that?
D. Banori: To make me like them. Stupid...happy...devoted...
Clemett: Can't say as I'd wish that on anyone...
But, you are the enemy....
D. Banori: Against them, we are all allies. Please?
I will not attack. I promisssssse.
Clemett: I'll think about it.
Wish I could help. Don't have the key to this lock, though.
D. Banori: Find it, cretins! Er...I mean "friends!"
---- Speak to him again.
D. Banori: Please, please! Let me go!
Clemett: Hmm... I need to think about this.
Wish I could help. Don't have the key to this lock, though.
D. Banori: Find it, idiots! Er...I mean, please?!
-------------------
Return with the Key
-------------------
D. Banori: Please, please! Let me go!
Clemett: Hmm... I need to think about this.
o----------------------------------o
| Use the Cell key to let them go? |
| Yes |
| No |
o----------------------------------o
#Select No
Clemett: Sorry. You allied with these poeple. Suffer your fate.
D. Banori: A plaaaaague on yourrr houuuuusssse!
##Select Yes.
Clemett: All right shut up. You better not betray me...
D> Banori: Hurrrrrry! Someone may commmme!
---- The door opens.
D. Banori: Frrreeeeedom!
Aooouuuueeeheeheehee...!
---- He walks away.
Cleemtt: You're welcome! Ingrate!
------------
The Sentinel
------------
Setting: Two Dargs and one Banori are in a hut with bloody swords on the walls.
Clemett: Oops...Wrong turn...
Sentinel: The infidels are here, brothers! Let the ground be stained with
their lifeblood!
Clemett: You might want to rethink that line of thought.
Sentinel: We will offer their hearts as tribute to Keerg!
Clemett: One track minds... What a terrible waste.
Sentinel: In Keerg's name we strike as one!
---- Battle.
Clemett: Nice guys... Real friendly, easy going...
Xero: This is some operation. Zealots, all working to serve Keerg....
Jirina: Do not be deceived.
These zealots all serve the same master...the same master Keerg
serves.
Clemett: Hokum?
Xero: Hokum...or the Darg he worships.
Jirina: These creatures are weak. They are puppets.
Clemett: Well, then we need to find the puppeteer!
Jirina: Ha ha ha! Well put, metal-smith.
Xero: I say. Gadgeteer... I believe that's the first time I've heard her
laugh.
Clemett: Kinda sounded like gravel breaking, didn't it?
Jirina: Enough mindless jests. We've an artefact to recover.
Clemett: I knew the moment wouldn't last long...
---- The party regroups.
-----------------
Priest's Quarters
-----------------
Setting: The first hut on the left contains the priest and two females and a
small statue and sleeping rolls.
Priest: Infidels! They must be purged!
Daughter 1:We hear and we obey.
Daughter 2:They will not defile you with their unclean touch.
Clemett: Last chance. Surrender or...
Daughter 1:We already have...surrendered.
Daughter 2:...to the one pure love!
Priest: Enough chatter! Attack, daughters! Kill! Main! Protect!
---- Battle with two banshees.
Priest: N...nooooooooooooooo...
Keerg protect me! Save me from the infidels!
Clemett: Give it a rest, chump. You're over and done with.
Jirina: At least have the courage to accept defeat with honour.
Priest: S...stay away! Don't touch me! Don't pollute me!
Clemett: What a loser.
Jirina: He must be bound and silenced.
Priest: Nooo!
Jirina: He could still cause trouble. Grab him, quickly!
Priest: Yeeeeeiiiiiiarrr!
---- He collapses.
Xero: What the...?
Jirina: Clemett!
Clemett: Don't look at me, eh! I didn't do that!!!
Xero: Nor did I, so don't even ask.
Jirina: Well, someone did!
Clemett: Hmmm...suppose this Keerg fella did it?
Xero: Possibly... We'd better tread lightly from here on.
Jirina: Agreed.
---- The group reforms. Check the bedroll in the hut.
o--------------------o
| Common prayer mat |
| stuffed with moss. |
o--------------------o
---- Check the statue.
o-----------------------o
| Likeness of Keerg the |
| Redeemer. |
o-----------------------o
----------------
A Sacred Chamber
----------------
Setting: The three daughters are here. One Banori and two Darg Orgs.
Daughter: They are not of the one...
Daughter: They are the 'other!'
Daughter: We must cleanse. We must expunge...
Clemett: Now, hold it. If you're thinking about fighting, stop.
You'll only get hurt.
Daughter: We must repel.
Clemett: Uh, oh...
---- Battle.
CLemett: What were those things?!
Xero: They reeked of chaos... Their spells were charged with it.
Jirina: I think we should expect more of this.
Clemett: Right. Chaos or not... They bleed and they die. That's all I need
to know!
Xero: Er...right.
Jirina: Save it for battle, Gadgeteer.
---- They join together again.
---- Check the lamp
o-------------------------o
| Mineral oil lamp. |
| Emits mystic vapours... |
o-------------------------o
---------------
Worship Chamber
---------------
Setting: This hut is empty.
o---------------------o
| Dried moss gruel. |
| The staple of these |
| people... |
o---------------------o
----------------
A Sacred Chamber
----------------
Setting: This hut is also empty. There are various urns and large pots.
o-------------------------o
| Votive urns. |
| For things religious... |
| For the joining... |
o-------------------------o
------------------
Meditation Chamber
------------------
Setting: This hut has three Dargs and a protrait of Keerg with a rainbow on
one wall between two pillars.
Clemett: Now what?
Magi 1 Greetings, infidels.
Magi 2: We are the Magi of Keerg.
Clemett: Everyone has Magi these days...
Magi 3 A humourous jest. We know of the Magi you serve.
Magi 1: You are misguided. You serve a great evil.
Magi 2: Now is your chance to repent. Serve us...our masters...
Magi 3: Through us you shall find redemption.
Clemett: I don't think so.
Magi 1: You are deluded!
Magi 2: We cannot convert you. You are lost to us.
Magi 3: It is up to us to show you the way. To instruct you...
Clemett: You could surrender...
Magi 1: If we were mere mortals, we would have done just that!
Magi 2 But we are more than that. We are strong. We are of Keerg.
Magi 3: You have defiled our shrine! You must be expunged!
Clemett: Suit yourselves...
---- Battle.
Xero: We need to shut this place down.
Too many more like it, and the world will be crawling with twisted
zealots...
CLemett: Or worse.
Jirina: It is sickening.
This type of mindless servitude...this is what Hokum seeks for us.
Clemett: I heard a saying once...'Live free or die'... Reminds me of you,
sweetheart!
Jirina: Do not call me 'sweetheart!'
That is a sound philosophy, however. Where did you hear it?
Clemett: Ah...some backwater place. Name escapes me...
Xero: Let's get moving...
If Keerg is monitoring his minions, he could get a fix on us...
Clemett: Ah. Right.
---- They join up again.
--------------
Keerg's Shrine
--------------
Setting: They are on a large rock platform inside a cave with red lava showing
through the rocks. There is a man dressed in white, who has a black moustache
and red ringed eyes. There is also a flying red insect thing and an enemy
dressed in blue.
Xero: This must be him. The "Great Keerg."
Clemett: Doesn't look so much like an icon of virtue, eh?
Jirina: Do not take him lightly. His power is strong. He was once a great
man...
Keerg: Lo! Demons everywhere... Why must you torment me so?
Clemett: This guy's higher than a kite.
Look, you! Cough up the Essence or you'll wish we were mere
demons!!
Xero: We know you have it. The Mages said so!
Keerg: Ah! So that's what you're after!
The Magi were wise... Sending fools who knwe so little of me....
...or my new abilities.
Jirina: All I know is that you are the enemy.
You and your kind have brought strife and pain to my world.
Keerg: We have only revealed the true nature of all things. The veil has
been removed!
Call it what you will, "entropy" or "chaos," it is all around us,
and in us.
We channel it, and are shaped by it!
Xero: If you ahve even a shred of decency left, you'll hand over the
Essence to us.
Keerg: Oh, I'm afraid I haven't been plagued by even a shread of decency
in, oh a good many years!
What's more, without the glorious Essence, I am nothing...
literally.
The Toparri...they've ruined me! They denied me that which I
depended on for too long...
It was all I could do so sit in thier filthy gardens drooling the
time away....
Then, I was saved! It came out of the blue! It was a miracle!
Jirina: We are not interested in your foolish stories!
Keerg: Oh, but you should be...
You see, it chose me. Purified my spirit! Brought back my mind!
And soon it will claim you, too!
Clemett: That's where you're wrong, you screwball.
Hard to believe the whole overworld reveres you. Wait 'til they
hear the truth!
Xero: Give us the Essence...or we'll have to take it from you.
Keerg: I don't think so.
Devor! Eyegore!
Pain. Give them pain... We must teaach them our ways!
Deliver them, broken and lifeless, to my feet. I will use their
remains as my meditation cushion.
---- Battle.
Keerg: (Cough...) So, the new heroes...
...win...
Aaaaa... Pain...unbearable...
...but things sem clearer...
I am free at last!!!
Take...what you have come for...
---- He begins to stagger.
Keerg: I wish I had never laid eyes on it... (Cough...hack...)
---- A blue light shines and he collapses and disappears. A blue item is
left on the ground.
Jirina: He's gone.
Xero: Gods above...we're so close... The Essence of Chaos!
Jirina: Keerg...meant a lot to the people of Arkose.
Xero: Yes, and I'm thinking it shouldn't be up to us to let everyone know
what happened to the poor fellow.
Jirina: There is no need to destroy his...legacy.
Xero: Indeed. Our lips must remain sealed, dear girl.
Jirina: Agreed.
---- Xero goes to pick up the blue item.
o------------------------------o
| Party finds Keerg's Essence. |
o------------------------------o
Clemett: Careful with that! Stuff is pure evil!
Xero: Relax old man. The Toparri and the Magi are anything but poor
teachers.
The Essence is secure in the case.
Jirina: Good. Let's get out of here, before his zealots come to harass us.
---- The party regroups. They leave the cave using the ladder.
--------------
The Camp Again
--------------
Setting: The main area is now littered with bodies.
Clemett: By the Immaculate Stamen! Looks like a massacre!
Xero; What... How...
Jirina: Perhaps the Toparri...?
Clemett: No way, sweetheart! The flower-eaters don't "do" violence!
Jirina: Then perhaps it was suicide. Mass suicide.
Xero: Hmm...perhaps.
The priest mentioned that they could "become of one mind and
spirit," remember?
Clemett: Yeah...he said that. You don't think...?
Jirina: They must have been "joined" when Keerg died...
Xero: Perhaps to feed him strength...
...to keep him alive...
To help him kill us.
Jirina: And they failed. As a result...they all perished as one.
Clemett: That's creepy, eh.
Jirina: We can exploit this weakness!
If Hokum uses these zealots in the field, we'll know how to defeat
them.
Xero: Do you ever think about things in a non-military way?
Jirina: I am Org-Ta. War is life. Warfare reveals all.
Xero: Wars end, you know.
Jirina: Not in our experience.
Clemett: Hey, I don't know about you two, but I'd like to get the "hot potato
of doom' here back to the Magi!
I mean, do you want to wind up like old Keerg back there?
Jirina: No. Let's move.
Clemett: Now you're talking.
---- The group reforms. Check the huts again and there are bloody bodies
in them all.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Return to Arkose 0242
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return to the Toparri and visit each one for additional comments.
Rohal: You have won. The balance has shifted. But darkness is still
falling.
The hellion must be slain before the dawn can come.
Jihen: I see the Urn's holding up nicely...
Praises be to the great spirits!
Jimor: Your work is good. The land will mend... Harmony shall return.
Jowal: Excitement! Friendly visitors! Joy joy joy!
Jobae: One person's jar of Chaos is another person's ticket to Order...
Just don't remove the lid until you're ready to handle it!
Jakir: Your deed...were necessary. I regret it, but it is true.
May Keerg be at peace...at last.
-----------------
The Garrison Fort
-----------------
Setting: Lou is waiting next to the Mole by the tents.
Lou: Well, well... If it ain't the bigshot hee-roes!
Clemett: Go swivel on a multimode phase distorter!
Lou: Keep it up, grime-weasel!
Xero: Gentlemen, gentlemen! Such squabbling is so out of place on a day
like today!
Lou: What is the Head goin' on about now?!
Jirina: Keerg has fallen.
Lou: Goody for you, honey. I'm thrilled, really.
Jirina: Wretched little man...
Clemett: Hey, knucklehead... This piece of junk earthworthy yet?
Lou: Does this look like one of YOUR creations?!? Of COURSE it's
ready!!!
Xero: Jolly good! We never doubted you for a moment!
Clemett: Speak for yourself, Head.
Lou: Yeah, and I suppose you soldier monkeys want a ride back to Arkose
now?
Yes
No
#Select: Yes
Lou: That figures. I'd love to say no, but the big chick will hurt me...
Jirina: Without question.
Lou: Right. Admit it, honey...you're crazy about me!
Jirina: GRRRRRRRRRRRRRR...
Lou: !!!
Alright, alright! Get in, let's go already!
FMV of the MOLE
##Select: No.
Lou: Then disappear, scumbags! I got business to tend to!
---- Speak to him again.
Lou: By the Petals of Phorak! What now?!
Is it time to take you pathetic primates back to Arkose?
Yes
No.
###Select: No
Lou: One of these days... I'm tellin' ya... Grr...
####Selec: Yes.
Lou: Great! Gettin' tired of this hole, anyway. Always 'Org-Ta' this
and 'honour' that!
Let's make tracks!
FMV of the MOLE.
*******************************************************************************
************************* PLEASE INSERT DISC 1 ********************************
******************************************************************************
-----------
Eyre Crater
-----------
Clemett: Oh, sacred pollen be praised! We made it!
WE'RE ALIVE!
Jirina: Calm yourself, mechanic.
Xero: Go easy on the lad, Jirina. I rather agree that it was a harrowing
ride!
Jirina: For some, I suppose.
---- Lou and Calark appear from the back of the Mole and join the group.
Lou: I've got good news and bad news for you bent sprockets.
Clemett: Swell. Give us the good news...and watch who you call a sprocket,
socket-head!
Lou: Who you callin' a socket-head, lube-jockey? Why, I oughtta...
Jirina: Stop your squealing and relate your news...quickly!
Lou: Or what?
Jirina: Prepare to experience life with your hind end much closer to your
shoulders.
Lou: ...
Oh...uh...heh heh. Right...
Xero: You have such a way with him, Jirina.
Jirina: One of my many talents.
Lou: Okay...the good news. The MOLE isn't going to explode any time
soon.
Clemett: !!!
What's the BAD news?
Lou: Ah...well, the MOLE isn't going anywhere any time soon either.
Xero: Oh, dear.
Lou: So, if you plan on going back to Wyldern, you're gonna need to find
another route...
Clemett: Terrific. How soon can you get this deathtrap working again?
Lou: Ah...heh heh... Well...
Jirina: That long, eh?
Lou: Yeah...since Fathercity, er, Eyre left, we have no parts supply.
No parts, no repairs...
Xero: Couldn't we get help from some of the local blacksmiths?
Loou: BWAH HAH HAAAAAH!
You expect me to let some... PRIMATE...work on MY machine?1?
Get real, Head!
Xero: Well, you don't have to get snippy about it...
Clemett: Fine. Whatever. We've got bigger issues to deal with.
Lou: I figured as much.
Xero: Thanks for your help, Lou. We really should be going.
Lou: Yeah, yeah...see ya in the funny papaers, kids.
Jirina: Take care. May your path end in victory.
Lou: Yeah...you too, sister.
Calark: Farewell, everybody!
---- The group reforms and walks away.
Lou: All right, Calark... Let's get to work!
Calark: I wish we were heading off to lend a hand somewhere.
Lou: That makes one of us...
Now get to it, grease for brains! We're burnin' daylight here!
Calark: Imagine you on a battlefield! Ha!
That tickles the old funny bone!
Lou: Grrrrr...
---- End of scene.
===============================================================================
25. KARILLON AGAIN! 0250
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. The Journey 0251
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------
Gogarin Keep
------------
Setting: The back gateway has a kinght in armour waiting under the raised
portcullis.
Sir George:Halt!
What business have you here?
Stinger: We were just passing through.
Windleaf: It's wonderful to see the kinghts back again!
Sir George:Wonderful, indeed. We have much work to do. So many have died.
Harv-5: There has been death.
Sir Geaorge:That about sums it up, uh, mister mechanical man.
Stinger: Well, good luck to you!
Sir George:Fare thee well!
---- Speak to him agian.
Sir George: Hail and well met, fellow warriors!
Stinger: Greetings, Sir Kinight.
Sir George: Is evil still afoot?
Stinger: We're afraid so.
Sir Goerge: Very well. Carry on.
--------------------------
The Door to Cresent Valley
--------------------------
Sir Thomas:Just look at my armoury!
It has been ravaged by that...that...rabble!
Everything is out of place.
Without order, and uniformity, you end up with anarchy!
Stinger: Can we help you, sir?
Sir Thomas:Eh? You must be the work detail Sergeant Hulka promised me!
Well, then, hop to it! Time's a-wasting!
The swords go over there, and the mail goes here.
Stinger: Sorry, sir. But we're not here to clean up.
We're just passing through.
Sir Thomas:Blast! Well then, off you go. This is no place for goldbrickers.
Shoo!
I've got work to do! No time for idle chit-chat.
Stinger: Sorry!
------------------
The Main Courtyard
------------------
Setting: There is a group do fice soldiers in the courtyard.
Sgt. Hulka:You maggots listen up, and listen up good!
I am your drill instructor. My name is Hulka. You will call me
"Sergeant Hulka."
IS THAT CLEAR?!?
Recruits: Sir, yes, Sir!
Sgt> Hulka:WHAT! Did...you...just...call...me..."sir"?!?
I am a Sergeant. I WORK for a living!
This is how it's gonna be, you slimy pukes.
There is no Keerg! There is no mommy!
There is only me. I am Keerg. I am mommy.
Any of you momma's sweet little things want some milk and cookies?
Recruits: Okay, Sergeant Hulka!
Sgt. Hulka:WHAT?!? Who said that? Jenkins, drop and give me 100! NOW! NOW!
NOW!
---- Jenkins is doing sit-ups.
Anyone else want to join Jenkins here?
---- There is silence.
Sgt. Hulka:I didn't think so!
---- He notices the party standing in the corner of the courtyard.
Sgt. Hulka:What are YOU three doing?
Come to join my little tea party?
WELL?!? Speak up, boy! I CAN"T HEAR YOU!
Stinger: Ummm...no sir?
Sgt. Hulka:!!!
You just called me "sir"! Drop and give me 50!
Stinger: 50 what, sir?
Sgt. Hulka:AARGH!
You said it agian! You're getting on my nerves, boy!
That'll cost you another 50, punk!
Windleaf: We're friends of Sir Geaorge.
We didn't mean to interrupt your class.
Sgt. Hulka:Well, why didn't you say so in the first place?
I woulda baked you a cake!
Now get your sorry butts off my parade ground before I...
Stinger: Testy, isn't he?
Sgt. Hulka:Boy, don't make me come over there!
My size 14 boot will be a very poor fit between your buttocks!
NOW MOVE!
Windleaf: You made a friend...
Stinger: I thought he rather liked me...
Sgt.Hulka: Ok, you sad sacks1 Today we're gonna go for a little walk.
25 miles in full field gear!
Recruits: (GROAN!)
Sgt. Hulka:Heh, heh, heh...
---- They all leave the courtyard by the front exit.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Revisit 0252
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Gates
---------
Stinger: Karillon. It seems so long since we first arrived.
Windleaf: That's so true!
Stinger: Seems like a dream sometines.
Alaan: Greetings, heroes of Karillon!
Stinger: Is that what we're called now?
Benj: Among other things...
Alaan: Shut up!
Windleaf: Nice to see you too, Benj.
Alaan: Been a while. What brings you back?
Stinger: Need to see the Council... You know...big stuff.
Alaan: I'll be surprsied when it isn't...I'll send a page to them.
Stinger: Thanks, man.
---- The party regroups. Speak to them again.
Benj: Sure glad I haven't caught the Madnes!
Alaan: Keep up the good work.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oldtowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Namm: You ever wonder what happens when you die?
Stinger: Er...not really.
Namm: Don't start. I did, and now I can't think of anything else.
Lilga: The way people are dyin' off, I should find a real job in no time!
----------
The Temple
----------
Setting: the priest is not there and the place seems emptier.
Micah: Greetings, heroes.
Stinger: Hey there...where is everyone?
Micah: The plague...the madness. So many have passed on...
Windleaf: I'm so sorry...
Micah: It is difficult, but I strive to accept the burden life presents.
Stinger: We can relate to that...
Micah: Of that I am certain.
Windleaf: Well...we should be going...
Micah: Peace be with you, friends.
---- Speak to her again.
Micah: For many, time grows short. We pray for an end...however it should
come.
Otis: Hokum calls you mean things. I try not to listen. Then he yells.
Rosco: I'm scared, man. I need a hug.
---- Stinger hugs him!
Thanks. I'm not so scared anymore.
-------------
Clara's House
-------------
Clara: Oh dear oh dear oh. Think the floor is melting. Melt melt melt!
Stinger: Oh, no. The madness...
--------------------
Chambermaid's House
-------------------
Zed: Maaaaaaaaammma!
Mamma's gone!
Windleaf: Oh no! What happened?
Zed: She went all creepy... Then she ran away!
Ned: She doesn't love us anymore!
o----------------o
| BWWWAAAAAAAAH! |
| HUWWWAAAAAHH! |
o----------------o
Windleaf: There, there...it'll be okay...
Stinger: Who's taking care of you?
Zed: T-the Cap'n...
He's a mean old goober!
Stinger: Ho ho. Bet you don't say that to his face!
Ned: N-no...
Windleaf: The Captain is a good man. He'll take good care of you.
Zed: If he don't kill us first!
Stinger: Well, behave and he won't!
Zed: O-okay...
Ned: I still want Mamma back...
---- Speak to them again.
Ned: I think you smell.
Zed: My brother is a doof!
---- Go upstairs to speak to Dewitt.
Dewitt: I think Zed and Ned are losing it.
-----------------
The Blue Door Pub
-----------------
Becker: Hey! Duff! Look who it is!
Stinger: All right, all right... I missed you guys too.
Becker: Goody fer you, dingbat! I was talkin' about the robot!
Stinger: !!!
Harv-5: Greetings and salutations.
Duffy: Uh, yeah. Well met there, Robot.
Leif: Ole Duffy's been plumb lonesome for you, wood-boy. Har har har!
McKee: Oh, yeah! I seen him in back, painting up a keg to look like you!
Duffy: Shut yer pie hole, you! I did no such thing!
Becker: I think Duff wants to adopt him! Ha ha ha!
Duffy: All I said was that he done right by the city, that's all!
Man's got a right to change his mind on things!
Harv-5: Well, I am glad to be welcome here.
May your bouts of intoxication be pleasant and vomit-free.
Stinger: Er...heh heh heh. That's a little joke, fellas. Good ole robot
humour!
o--------------o
| HAR HAR HAR! |
o--------------o
Duffy: Robot humour! Ho ho ho!
Leif: Vomit-free! Ha ha ha! I'm dyin'!!!
Donaghue: I don't get it.
Windleaf: (whew) Good save, Stinger.
Stinger: Thanks.
We'd better get the funny guy outta here before he gets in trouble.
Harv-5: I concur.
---- The party re-groups. Speak to them all again.
McKee: Things are getting ugly round here.
Leif: The militia keeps taking over our caravans. I don't like it at all!
Donaghue: Humph! Heroes! You wanna see a real man? Look no further!
I'm the local rasslin' champeen! Ain't no one who can beat me!
you buyin' the drinks?
Stinger: Er...no.
Donaghue: Then g'wan! I'm busy!
Becker: I saw Eyre when it docked! Wow!
I've changed my mind about flying machines!
--------------
The Guardhouse
--------------
Setting: The place is as usual, except one person is missing.
Stinger: Hey, troops.
Xavier: Greetings, heroes.
Stinger: Man, everyone's calling us that now!
Ziggy: WHAT'S ALL THAT RACKET OUT THERE?!
Windleaf: Let me guess. Behind on the cleaning?
Xavier: Worse thatn ever. Since Yuri got the madness, I can't keep up.
Stinger: Yuri's sick?
Xavier: Nuttier than a feggle tree. Thinks he is King Fanoma.
Windleaf: Oh, my.
Xavier: Runs around saying "Surf's up!" all the time. Sad...
Ziggy: Don't make me put you on report, trooper!
Xavier: Duty calls...
Stinger: Take it easy...when you can.
---- The group reforms. Talk to them both.
Ziggy: Heroes or not... QUIT PESTERING MY TROOPS!
Xavier: I might make Sergeant when I'm 110.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Middletowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------
Guild Hall
----------
Carpenter: I'm telling you, we need to do something!
Mason: Ssh! Junior members!
Stinger: What's going on?
Carpenter: Er...nothing to worry about, m'boy!
Jeweler: Not at all! Relax!
Mason: Life is great!
Plumber: Yeah! No chance of the Council closing Hightowne at all! Nope!
Jeweler: Idiot!
Mason: I told you we should have left her out of the loop!
Plumber: Sorry...
Windleaf: You can't be serious. Why would the Council shut down Hightowne?
Carpenter: They thing they can quarantine themselves...
Mason: Keep things safe through isolation...fools!
Plumber: The Sages have said there's no plague...that what's happening is
mystic in nature...
Jeweler: But will they listen? Humph! I've seen dung with more sense!
Windleaf: Ewwww.
Stinger: Well, what're you guys gonna do about it?
Mason: Us?!
Stinger: Sure...everyone knows the Guild calls the shots around here...
Jeweler: Er...
Stinger: Am I wrong? When you guys go on strike, the city shuts down!
Plumber: Kid's got a point...
Stinger: Why don't you rattle their cage a little? Get 'em to look at things
your way?
Carpenter: Capitol thinking, boy!
Mason: I knew young blood was a good idea!
Jeweler: We'll get right on that!
Stinger: Good luck!
---- The party re-groups. Speak to them all again.
Mason: I tell you, if they close off Hightowne, it'll mean war!
Jeweler: All the deaths... Bad for business!
Carpenter: Seems like all I make these days are coffins...
Plumber: If it gets to war, I'm gonna take a vacation!
------------------
State Nursing Home
------------------
Setting: George is, of course, no longer here.
Ole Moon: Don'tcha hate it when the boss monster is a big blob with
tentacles?
Durned pain in the rump, them bosses are!
Nurse: Hello there!
----------------
Grishame's House
----------------
Grishame: Greetings! Ready for another installment?
Stinger: Are we ever!
Grishame: Let's do it, then!
---- Black screen.
Windleaf: ...Jirina, Clemett, and Xero are off to Wyldern again. Pretty
amazing, huh?
Grishame: I'll say.
Here's your money... This story's worth every penny!
o---------------------o
| 1000 gold received! |
o---------------------o
Grishame: Drop by when you return from the Ruins!
Stinger: See you then.
---- Speak to him again.
Grishame: Check back with me from time to time!
--------------
Hall of Wisdom
--------------
High Sage: Greetings.
Stinger: Wait till you get our latest reports!
You guys will be writing all day and night for a week!
Geelee: Ooooooh! Intense writing sessions!
Alif: It's what we were born for!
Nepear: I'll get the quills!
High Sage: Heh heh heh. You seem to have excited my acolytes.
Stinger: Sorry about that.
High Sage: Be at ease. They're quite fond of you, actually.
They're excited to be a part of a new legend.
Windleaf: Oh, goodness. I wouldn't go that far...
High Sage: Think back on your recent accomplishments.
Would you consider them ordinary in any sense of the word?
Windleaf: Er...not really.
High Sage: I rest my case, dear.
Stinger: Legends...us. Who would've thought it?
---- They join up again. Talk to the Sages.
Nepear: History in the making, before my eyes!
Alif: The things I learn from your adventures!
Geelee: I'll bet people begin to name their children after you soon!
High Sage: You've done very well. We're all proud of you here!
--------------
Captain Willis
--------------
Willis: We may need to reinstate the draft soon. I'll do my best to keeo
you out of that!
We need you out there more than in here on guard duty.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hightowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
City Park
---------
Stinger: Been a while since we've been here, huh?
Windleaf: Yes. I wonder if those annoying mimes are still around?
Harv-5: If they are, we shall give them something to make noise about.
Stinger: Settle down, big feller!
Harv-5: I am sorry. I do not appreciate the corruption of miming.
It is a gentle art, and they defile it.
Windleaf: Why, Harv-5... Defending art... That's so...deep.
Stinger: Just when you think you know him...boom. He goes in another
direction!
Kisa: Greetings, hipsters. Hear the latest?
Stinger: No, we've been out of town.
Kisa: Dig this. The Man is gonna bring back the draft! What a stone-cold
drag!
Lydia: Painting's on hold. I've been making protest banners!
The council's oppression must end!
--------------------
The Diva's Residence
--------------------
Setting: The Diva is alone this time.
The Diva: Cruel fates! How cold you take him? Drive Karl to madness?
I am dead inside. I shall never sing again...
----------------
The Whyte's Home
----------------
Setting: The place appears empty except for Humphries.
Humphries: Why, hello there.
Stinger: Hey, Humphries. Where's the man?
Humphries: Who? Whyte?
Stinger: Who else, dingbat? Of course I mean Whyte!
Humphries: Dead as a door-nail. Wife, too.
Windleaf: You...didn't kill them did you?
Humphries: No, believe it or not. The madness took them! The whole lot of
them!
Stinger: Wow...that's too bad.
Humphries: If you say so. I'm rather happy...and rich.
Windleaf: You are?
Humphries: That's right. They left me everything in their will.
Stinger: Are you kidding?
Humphries: Absolutely not. I am now one of the wealthiest men in Karillon.
Maybe I'll run for the Council! Ha!
Stinger: Hmm...hope you fare better at being rich than the Whytes did...
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Humphries: You know...I think I'll hire me a maid. Yes. A maid would be
nice!
-------------------
The Council Offices
-------------------
Setting: There are only three council members this time.
Mayor: Welcome, heroes. it's been a while.
Brady: Yes, indeed. It's nice to see Harv-5 again.
Harv-5: Thank you, councilman. I have missed Karillon in my time away.
Willis: What brings you to us today, Stinger?
High Sage: The page we received said it was a most urgent matter.
Stinger: And it is!
Windleaf: I'm afraid we need to ring the bells again.
Brady: Afraid...? Why do you say that?
Windleaf: Well...not everyone likes the Gadgeteers here in Karillon.
I'm worried that seeing them around again could cause panic.
Willis: You let us handle that. If they're needed, we'll call them. it's
that simple.
Brady: Indeed! Superstition won't get in the way of progress!
Mayor: Very well. Guard!
---- The guard arrives.
Guard: Yes, your honour?
Mayor: Ring the bells!
Guard: By your command, mayor!
---- The guard leaves.
Mayor: I'm hearing no bells.
Stinger: Oh, man... Not again!
Willis: I've had that tower under watch constantly! No one could have
broken it!
Brady: Goodness...
---- The bells ring!
Windleaf: Whew!
Stinger: Muuuuuch better.
Willis: There's a relief!
Mayor: Brady...you'd better make sure the docking platform is ready and
able.
Brady: At once, Mayor!
Stinger: I suppose we should hurry up and wait, right?
Brady: Afraid so. Keep checking in at the Docking Platform.
Windleaf: We will.
Brady: They shouldn't be long!
---- Black screen and the party are left alone in the Council Offices.
Windleaf: Let's get supplies... Relax... Lose our worries for a bit.
Stinger: Lets.
---- They regroup and leave the Council Offices.
--------------------
The Docking Platform
--------------------
Setting: At the Platform.
Brady: Should be here any time now!
Guard Can't wait to see Eyre again!
Setting: After waiting a while and walking up to the platform.
Guard: Look!
Brady: Here she comes. Majestic and proud...
---- FMV of Eyre arriving.
Stinger: So... Old Liam wouldn't come up this time, eh?
Brady: Afraid not. He's too terrified of the Gadgeteers.
Windleaf: I can't figure out why. They're our allies...
Harv-5: Some people cannot accept change.
Brady: That's for sure.
You wouldn't believe what I've had to go through to get Hightowne
built!
Mervin: To Stinger and Windleaf, I offer greetings.
Stinger: Hey, Mervin. Looks like your social skills have improved.
Mervin: I am a quick learner.
Windleaf: It's nice to see you again, Mervin.
Mervin: Pleased I am as well.
The Elder Makers will see you now.
---- Brady rushes forward to speak to Mervin.
Brady: Er...excuse me...Mervin, was it?
Mervin: Brady of Karillon. What do you want?
Brady: Well...I'd like to meet with he Makers as well.
Mervin: Denied. Your needs are not mission-critical.
Brady: But...
Mervin: Decision is final. Step back.
Stinger: Sorry, Brady. Maybe next time?
Harv-5: Eyre...
Mervin: Stinger. Windleaf. Harvester Unit. Accompany me, please.
---- Mervin begins to walk back into Eyre.
Windleaf: Well, Harv-5... You finally get to go home! Aren't you excited?
Harv-5: Negative. For some reason... I feel...trepidation. Uncertainty...
Stinger: Why, Windleaf... Our pal has the jitters.
Windleaf: Stop tormenting him! It's been a long time. This place is like his
mother...or something.
Harv-5: I will manage. Your concern is appreciated, Windleaf.
Stinger: C'mon...we better get in there, before Mervin has a tantrum.
---- They join up as a group and walk forwards into Eyre.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Revisit Eyre 0253
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 3: Habitat
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------
Hall of the Elder Makers
-------------------------
Mervin: Humans Windleaf, Stinger and ad Harvester Unit, Makers.
Einn: Thank you Mervin. You may return to class now.
---- Mervin leaves.
Stinger: He's grown up a bit, hasn't he?
Bel: Indeed. He's the best in this class.
Windleaf: So he told us.
Gali: As a reward, he was allowed to greet you again.
Einn: He was quite excited. He's fond of you.
Stinger: Really? Wow...kind of like having a nephew...
Bel: I see you brought the Harvester unit along this time.
Stinger: We sure did. Although, he's a little bashful...
Windleaf: Stinger!
---- Harv-5 walks up to the left hand Gadgeteer, Gali, and kneels.
Harv-5: Greetings most high. I am honoured to be in your presence, Makers.
Gali: Rise, Harv-5. We are proud to receive you in Eyre.
You have performed well. We relinquish all claims. You are a free
unit.
Harv-5: Free...?
Einn: Yes. No longer property. Your destiny is yours to choose.
Gali: Though, we hope you spend some time with us here.
Harv-5: I would like that.
However, my mission for the Magi...for the world...takes precedence.
Bel; We understand. We would be surprised if you chose otherwise.
Einn: Speaking of the mission...
Gali: Yes. What is your need?
Stinger: Well, we've had a lot of success so far.
Windleaf: The Orb of the Heavens has been recovered.
Harv-5: A team has been sent to Wyldern to recover the Essence of Chaos.
Bel: Yes. With the MOLE vehicle, we understand.
Stinger: Yeah, well...
Lou and Calark wanted to help out, so...
Einn: Be at ease. They chose wisely.
Stinger: Anyway, we need to get to Metaboline, out on Dantyr.
Gali: Understood.
The journey is a considerable one, but within our range.
Einn: Eyre is at your service, heroes.
Bel: We shall depart when you are ready.
Stinger: We appreciate it, Makers.
Gali: Report to the Bridge when you are ready to depart.
Windleaf: Understood. Thank you Makers.
---- The group join together again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 5: Recreation
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------
The Main Floor
--------------
Jerry: Folks like you give me hope for the future!
Dean: Nice to see you. Glad you're alive!
----------------------
Eyre Bed and Breakfast
----------------------
Setting: In the morning Harv-5 is seen moving in a strange way from side to
side, standing on one foot. Stinger pops up out of his bed hole.
Stinger: Harv-5, what in Keerg's cranium is wrong with you?
---- Windleaf pops up out of her hole. Harv-5 stops moving.
Harv-5: There has been......a malfunction...
Stinger: Hard to tell...
Harv-5: Does your insult give you joy?
Stinger: No! And that wasn't an insult!
It's just that, well, you're a pretty tough nut to crack.
Harv-5: Explain.
Stinger: Come on, Windleaf. Jump in anytime...!
Windleaf: Well, you ARE a bit of a puzzle...
Harv-5: Specify, please, which part if puzzling you.
Windleaf: I guess I'd have to say the fact that a gardening appliance can
fight as well as you do.
That's puzzling!
Harv-5: That is easy.
Arkosians fight frequently. The causes and nature of these fights
know no limits.
I watch.
I learn.
I attempt to...emulate Arkosian behaviour.
Windleaf: No, it's not that... I could swear that you already have
that"behaviour" down pat...
Harv-5: I am...of Gadgeteer design and manufacture.
The Gadgeteers have enabled certain functions in me that are causing
your...mental dysfunction.
I am but a machine.
However...
Stinger: Ah! Here it comes!
Harv-5: I must admit to experiencing conflicting...states of being from time
to time.
Such was the case a moment ago.
Windleaf: You're with friends, Harv-5...
...keep talking.
Harv-5: I believe I have access...to memories I have not directly
experienced.
Stinger: Come again?!
Harv-5: I was created from what you might call, "spare parts"...
...of..."junk."
One of my organic modules, a kind of memory storage device, was
"harvested" from another piece of equipment.
It was not completely erased...
Stinger: So you're...alive?
Harv-5: I contain certain biotech components.
I can "die."
But this does not make me a true biological organism...
Windleaf: Do you remember when to where you were made?
Harv-5: Negative. My own memory begins upon my delivery to a farm in
Barleygrove.
Stinger: You said your "own memory." What else do you remember?
Harv-5: I can..."remember" being part of an immense ship navigating through
space, carrying many passengers.
Stinger: ...go on...!
Harv-5: These passengers are fleeing some kind of enemy, which is in hot
pursuit.
I cannot see the enemy.
Stinger: Keerg's blood...
Harv-5: I "remember"...thinking in a certain way...
...and causing the technologies at my command to punch a hole in
space.
I remember entering the hole, and sealing it behind me...
What a curious...sensation.
I can perceive space around me.
Clusters of sensors and instruments are my "ears" and "eyes."
I see stars dying... and stars being born...
The universe feels alive...immense...
My final "memory" is of Arkose, from space. The Gadgeteers are
waiting for something.
I do not know if it is something good, or evil.
They are modifying their starship in some way... They are agitated.
Stinger: Why? What's happening?
Harv-5: I do not...remember. The data corrupts at that point.
Though I am of their making, I know little of my creators. They
are an enigma to me.
Stinger: Hoo boy... I don't know, Harv-5...
Windleaf: And I thought people were complicated...
Stinger: Still, we have bigger chickens to pluck. We'll have to straighten
you out later!
Harv-5: Your assistance will not be required.
My self-diagnostics are running as we speak.
Stinger: Yeah, well... Long may they run...
Windleaf: Let's go!
---- The party joins together. You can Continue, Save or Quit.
------------------
The Equipment Deck
------------------
Scotty: Oh, no you don't! You lost one vehicle! You'll not get another!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 4. Work Area
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
Workshop
--------
Setting: The three blue dressed Gadgeteers are present as before.
Stinger:
Derek: Humans perform well. Have merit. Admit mistake in judgement.
David: Working on new system. Inspired by MOLE vehicle. Will make new
submersible. Find your language difficult!
Nigel: My cannons are online. I was promoted. Am now Chief of Gunnery.
-------
The Lab
-------
Setting: As before.
Dominick: My electronic bagpipes are coming along well.
They will provide hours of joy and fun for the young ones.
Stinger:
Troy: I will not show my robot to the others. They would not understand.
She ...is...mine...
Daniel: No one takes me seriously. I will show them.
One day hatchlings will read about my sense of design and scope of
vision!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Floor 1: Instrument Tower
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nothing new.
Grover: Man-y things to see. This know I. Yes.
---------------
Floor 2: Bridge
---------------
Wallace: Welcome aboard, heroes. Are you ready to depart?
Yes
No.
#Select No.
Wallace: As you wish. Please inform us when you are ready.
##Select Yes.
Wallace: Very well!
Navigator1 Set a course for Dantyr.
Helm! Release docking clamps.
Helm! Ahead, one quarter ion thrust!
FMV of Eyre departing from Karillon. Then of crossing the sea.
---- A message appears.
o--------o
| Alert! |
| Alert! |
o--------o
---- There is an alarm!
o----------------------o
| Nav systems failing! |
| Engines cutting out! |
o----------------------o
o------------------o
| Crash stations! |
| Crash stations! |
o------------------o
FMV of Eyre crashing into the sea!
Setting: Only Stinger and Wallace are left standing!
Stinger: Wh...what happened?
Wallace: This is not good...
We...pushed her too far. Weren't ready to stay aloft so long...
Stinger: Now what? Are we sinking?!?
Wallace; Not if I have anything to say about it!
Helm! Helm!
Stinger: Looks like he's out...
Wallace: Very well... Mister Stinger... Take the helm!
Stinger: Aye, Commodore.
---- Stinger takes the helm.
Wallace: You should see an emerald button with a red centre.
Stinger: I see it!
Wallace: Press it, please.
Stinger: Aye, Commodore.
What'd I just do?
Wallace: You've deployed Aquatic Mode.
Stinger: Is that good.
Wallace: Yes. We'll be safe now.
---- Windleaf recovers.
Windleaf: Ooooh. What...
---- Harv-5 recovers.
Harv-5: Systems functional. Damage nominal.
Wallace: Attention all units! Assume Damage Control stations!
Mister Stinger! You're relieved. Thank you for your assistance.
Stinger: Well, it was fun while it lasted.
Windleaf: What was?
Stinger: Piloting Eyre...
Wallace: Please clear the Bridge. We've a lot of work to do to reach Chiore!
Stinger: Right.
---- He moves to the side of the area.
Wallace: All right, people. We've got a job to do! Move it!
---- Screen goes black.
o----------o
| Later... |
o----------o
Wallace: All stations have reported in. Ready!
Stinger: Hope this works...
Wallace: Navigator! Plot course for Chiore!
Helm! Ahead one-quarter ion thrust!
Short FMV of Eyre moving to the port on Dantyr.
Wallace: Well, we've limped the old girl to Chiore.
Stinger: Whew! Thanks, Commodore.
Wallace: No thanks are necessary. It is our duty.
Stinger: We'd better get ready to go.
Wallace: A sound plan. We'll be repairing Eyre while you're away.
Stinger: Good luck!
Wallace: Same to you.
---- The conversation ends.
===============================================================================
26. DANTYR 0260
===============================================================================
----------------
Skyway to Chiore
----------------
Setting: The group is standing on a deck having just emerged from Eyre. they
are in front of the Skyway to Chiore.
Windleaf: Goodness! Another skyway!
Stinger: These things are everywhere!
Havrv-5: Such is the Gadgeteer way. Perfect a device and mass-produce for
all.
Operator: Hello there! I must say, you don't look like Gadgeteers.
Stinger: We're not. We're just travelling with them.
Operator: Ah! Well... Welcome to Chiore all the same!
Windleaf: Thank you. We were just commenting on your Skyway here.
Operator: Pretty impressive, eh? Better than that one in Karillon by far!
Stinger: We take your word for it.
Operator: ... Suit yourself.
I get tired of boasting about ti, anyway.
Stinger: (whew)
Operator: So! Ready to take a ride to Chiore?
Yes
No
#Select Yes.
Operator: All aboard! Keep your hands inside the cab!
##Select No
Operator: Have it your way, pal.
---- Go back to the Skyway.
Operator: Who's ready for a Skyway ride?
We are!
Not us.
#Select: Not us!
Operator: The customer is always right!
##Select We are!
Hop on, everyone!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Chiore O261
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: At the exit from the Skyway. There is a large building to the right
with many multi-paned glass windows.
Stinger: So this is Chiore! Pretty impressive!
Windleaf: Indeed it is! Quite modern, too.
Stinger: Yeah...looks like the Gadgeteers get around, huh?
Harv-5: In more ways than one. We're fortunate they got us here.
Stinger: Don't remind me...I thought we were goners when Eyre started to go
down.
Windleaf: Um...topic change?
Stinger: Sure thing...you pick!
Windleaf: Okay...hmm. I've heard there's something called the 'Deep Forest
Sea' here...
Stinger: Yep! Sure is!
Windleaf: What an odd name. Is it because the water's green?
Stinger: Ha ha ha!
Harv-5: Not exactly...
Windleaf: What's that supposed to mean?
Harv-5: The Deep Forest Sea is a local phenomenon. It refers to the canopy
of a very old rain forest in central Dantyr.
The canopy is so dense that it can support the weight of light
sailing vessels.
Strangely, the trees possess a unique enchantment...one that
compels their leaves to act as waves.
WIndleaf: You're fibbing! You must be!
Ships sailing on the leaves of trees?!?
Stinger: Harv-5 is many things, but he's not a fibber. It's true!
Harv-5: Indeed. The Deep Forest Sea is a legacy of the last Mage-King.
Legend has it that he cast the enchantment upon the trees as a...
Windleaf: Yes...?
Harv-5: As a...wedding gift...
Windleaf: How sweet!
Stinger: You okay, barrel-belly?
Harv-5: I...I am uncertain. Somehow, I know that the legend is true...
I cannot explain, but I know it to be truth. Intriguing...
Stinger: Ah...right, Harv-5. Let's put down the pipe and move on, eh?
Windleaf: Quit teasing, Stinger! You know he has visions sometimes!
Stinger: He probably has termites, too! I don't take that seriously!
Windleaf: (sigh) Never mind. Let's explore the city!
---- They join up as a group.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gilded Lion Hotel
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Inside the first large building in the town. The foyer is large and
elegant.
Clerk: Hello! Welcome to the Gilded Lion Hotel. We have two suites
available today. The Standard suite, and the Penthouse!
The Standard is 500 gold a night. The Penthouse is 2000 gold a
night.
Will you be checking in?
We'll take the Standard room.
Give us the Penthouse!
No, thanks!
#Select Penthouse.
Watch Stinger as he walks all the way to the room. In the morning...
o-------------------------------------o
| Party receives complimentary gifts. |
o-------------------------------------o
Stinger: Fegglenuts! What a nice gift!
o-----------------o
| Party received: |
| Fegglenut |
| Fegglenut |
| Fegglenut |
| Fegglenut |
| Fegglenut |
o-----------------o
##Select Standard Room
No gift and no comments!
---- Check the table in the room.
o-------------------------o
| Feggelching game board. |
o-------------------------o
---------------
Penthouse Suite
---------------
Setting: A huge room with a huge bed with purple sheets .
Stinger: If I die, bury me in this bed.
---- Check the picture.
o-------------------------------------o
| 'Navigating the Forest Canopy,' |
| signed by the artist, Robi Bowmilk. |
o-------------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Sotted Sailor's Saloon
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A small bar is in the corner of the room and there are a couple of
table and three customers. A picture of a sailing ship is above the door.
Cyrus: Hail, travellers!
Stinger: Hi, there.
Cyrus: Ye'd be in from the' Gadgeteer ship, then?
Harv-5: Correct.
Ishmael: Strangest sight I've ever seen, that boat! Big, too!
Stinger: Well, it is a town...
Cyrus: A seagoin' town?!? Th' devil ye say!
Harv-5: Eyre is fully functional in any environment...Land, sea, air, or
space.
Fletcher: Space...?
Stinger: Never mind, man. Your brain'll hurt if you think about it too much.
Cyrus: So! Gadgeteer sailors! What brings ye to Chiore?
Stinger: We're here to resupply...for the most part.
Cyrus: Oh? And the rest?
Stinger: A small group of us would like to travel to Metaboline while we're
here.
Windleaf: We're interested in examining the ruins. Scientific studies, you
see.
Cyrus: ...
Er...right. Well, ye'll find no skipper here that'll take ye to
that place!
Harv-5: Oh? Why is that?
Cyrus: Are ye daft? Th' place is cursed!
Stinger: Oh, come on! A big guy like you, afraid of a ghost story?
Cyrus: Ghost story, nothin' Tis the truth! Ships that go there never
come back!
Fletcher: He speaks the truth, strangers.
Ishmael: Aye! The place is damned for all eternity!
Doctor
Smee: I daresay you'll find no crew willing to travel to that forsaken
isle, friends. Not under the Baron's banner, anyway.
Stinger: Humph! Thanks for nothing.
Cyrus: Don't take it so bad, laddie. Have a grog, forget about it!
---- The group reforms. Speak to them all again.
-----------
Doctor Smee
-----------
Doctor
Smee: Greetings, sailors.
Stinger: Hello.
Doctor
Smee You know... If the Gadgeteers were to side with the Baron, this
conflict could end soon!
Stinger: Is that so?
Doctor
Smee: Oh, to be certain, I'd like that. I'm so weary of battle...
Each fight gets more desperate... The losses more telling. Many
young men and women are dying because of it.
Both sides are adamant. nether will give an inch. Each fight...is
to the death.
Stinger: I'm sorry to hear that.
Doctor
Smee: Well...if you're really sorry, you'll talk your Captain into helping
us end it!
Stinger: We'll...see what we can do. We want an end to this as much as you
do.
Doctor
Smee: Oh, I doubt that... But, I appreciate the notion just the same!
---- Speak to him again.
Doctor
Smee: Terrible thing, war. Before this, all I had to tend to were seasick
sailors...
-----
Cyrus
-----
Cyrus: Pour ye a grog?
Stinger: Sure thing!
Cyrus: Here ye go!
Stinger: Gaaah! What is this?
Cyrus: It's...er...near-Grog.
Stinger: Near-Grog?!? What does that mean?
Cyrus: Baron's orders. No sailors are to be gettin' drunk an' disorderly!
Those who do get twenny lashes!
Stinger: I...see.
Cyrus: So, outta respect fer the customers, I only serve this here
near-Grog. No liquor in it, y'see.
Stinger: Can't imagine that's too popular.
Cyrus: Sssh! Still yet tongue! If'n the Baron hears ye criticisin' his
rules, ye'll swing fer sure!
Stinger: Oh. Right. Sorry.
Cyrus: Grin an' bear it. We all do!
---- Talk to him again.
Cyrus: Don't s'pose ye'd like a ...near-Grog?
Stinger: No, thanks.
Cyrus: I figgered as much. Durn rules!
--------
Fletcher
--------
Fletcher: Hello there.
Stinger: Greetings.
Fletcher: So...you want to go to Metaboline?
Stinger: That's right. There's important research to be done there.
Fletcher: I see.
Stinger: And you? What's your story?
Fletcher: I'm first mate on one of the Baron's frigates. The BSS Gigantic.
Stinger: Sounds like a fine ship.
Fletcher: Aye. Too bad we've been pressed into war duty.
Stinger: Oh?
Fletcher: I've lost 10 men in the last week. The pirates fight like devils.
I fear this will end poorly... For us all.
Stinger: Well, hopefully a settlement will come soon.
Fletcher: I hope you're right, friend. The longer this goes...the higher the
threat of mutiny becomes.
Stinger: Mutiny...?
Fletcher: Aye. A dirty word, to be certain...but one that could soon be
heard. On all sides.
We're not fighters, most of us. We're sailors. And we're sick of
war...
Stinger: Aren't you worried about the Baron, talking like that?
Fletcher: I suppose I'll take my chances.
Stinger: Good luck!
---- Speak to him again.
Fletcher: Have a care, should you sail without the Baron's banner. Chances
are you'll taste his wrath!
-------
Ishmael
-------
Ishmael: Can't say as I've met any Gadgeteer sailors before.
Stinger: The pleasure's ours.
Ishmael: If you say so.
Stinger: So...how's life working for the Baron?
Ishmael: Oh...wonderful. Super. Swell. Couldn't be better.
Stinger: I...see.
Ishmael: No, you'll not hear a complaint that could get me beaten half to
death come from me.
Nosirree. No complaints at all.
---- Speak to him again.
Ishmael: I wish the pirates would just give up. Life'd be simpler!
---- Check the corner of the room.
o---------------------------------o
| Let's use this spittoon wisely. |
| Please wipe the walls if'n ya |
| miss yer aim... |
| The Management |
o---------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Armoury
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There are three huge round furnaces to the right and a few weapons on
the back wall.
Merrier: Well met, strangers. Nice to see some customers.
Stinger: Yeah? How's that?
Merrier: Business has been pretty slow lately. Haven't seen a caravan for
weeks.
Stinger: Guess the news hasn't spread, then
Merrier: What news is that?
Windleaf: Well... Many places have been attacked by a powerful enemy.
Stinger: Port Lochane and Old Gubrath have been sacked.
Merrier: That'd explain the lack of caravans, then. What's bein' done about
it?
Stinger: Well, folks in Karillon are working with the Gadgeteers and the
Magi...
Windleaf: Progress has been made... But the enemy is strong.
Merrier: Uh, huh. Well, just so you know...
Things ain't so great around here, either.
Stinger; How so?
Merrier: Haven't you noticed? The damned Treebaron's puttin' the crush on
anyone who won't play his way?
Everyone's gettin' scared. Rumour has it he's got a bunch of
mercenaries to help him out.
Harv-5: Hmm... This bodes not well.
Merrier: You said a mouthful, robot! I heard the Baron sank another frigate
the other day. Anyone who rebels...boom!
Somethin's got to be done, and soon.
Stinger: I wouldn't worry about that. We've been to a lot of places.
Things are bad, but people are stepping up to do their part.
Merrier: That's the first good news I've heard from you!
I'm guessin' you three are 'people that have stepped up'... right?
Windleaf: Good guess.
Merrier: You'll get no trouble from me... Though I'd stay clear of the
Baron's men!
Stinger: Thanks for the advice.
Merrier: It's on the house.
These wares, though... They'll cost ya! I'll give ya a good deal,
though.
---- Shows inventory.
Merrier: Good luck to ya!
---- Speak to him again.
Merrier: Nice of you to drop in. See anything you like?
See you later!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pappy' Kipps
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A very bright shop that has two huge pictures of Pappy Kip on the
walls and a flashing sign for Feggelnuts.
Pappy Kipp:Howdy-hi, there! Come on in, friends!
---- They walk forwards to speak with him.
Stinger: Hey! You're the guy on the sign!
Pappy Kipp:The one and only! Pappy G. Kipp... The G stands for Grand!
Windleaf: I've never seen so many different kinds of nuts...
Pappy Kipp:You'll have to go to an asylum to see more, my dear!
Harv-5: Considering the state of affairs, that was a joke in poor taste/
Pappy Kipp:Lighten up, my robotic friend! Have faith! This, like gas, sahll
pass! Ha ha ha!
Stinger: So...Pappy. I have two questions...
Why do you call 'em "feggelnuts" when everyone else calls 'em
fegglenuts"?
And...are you the madman who started this whole fegglenut craze?
Pappy Kipp:My own special trademark lad. Feggelnuts brand fegglenuts!
But no one else want to buy into my brand.
Go figure!
As for the second question, truer words haven't been spoken, m'boy!
I started it all!
For years, no one would come out Dantyr way. Everyone was afraid.
Windleaf: Why was that?
Pappy Kipp:Why, the Metaboline curse, of course! Haha! Superstitious
nonsense!
It takes more than ghost stories to scare off ole Pappy Kipp,
though!
Stinger: I'll bet.
Pappy Kipp:I found me a bunch of stout souls brave enough to make the trip,
and the rest was history!
We found a few locals out here... Rebels, outcasts, dreamers...
people that came to find a place for themselves, curse or not.
And, it so happened, they shared a local treat with us!
Fegglenuts!
Stinger: So that's how it happened.
Pappy Kipp:Yep! The minute I ate a Fegglenut, I knew I was on to somethin'!
I took 'em back to Karillon, and POW! Instant hit! People
couldn't get enough of 'em!
Yessir, I'm blessed!
Windleaf: Thank you for sharing your tale with us, sir.
Pappy Kipp:Think nothin' of it, m'dear! but...don't take my word for it.
Check out my wares for yourself!
---- Shows inventory.
Pappy Kipp:Thank ya kindly for stoppin' by, kids.
---- Speak to him again
Pappy Kipp:Howdy-hi, there! Step up, friends. Check out our selection!
Y'all be sure and come back now...ya hear?
---- Check the displays.
o----------------------o
| Grade 'J' Feggelnuts |
o----------------------o
o----------------------o
| Grade 'N' Feggelnuts |
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Cat's Claw
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A room with a large red ball of yarn and a couple of cats. The
entrance to the place is shaped like an open cat's mouth.
Stinger: That's the second biggest ball of yarn I have ever seen...
---- Check the picture on the wall.
o---------------------------------o
| Callie, cat extraordinaire! ' |
| Painted by Priscilla Preentice, |
| the original cat woman. |
o---------------------------------o
---- Speak to the woman in the far corner.
Katrina: Well, hello there! Welcome to the Cat's Claw.
Stinger: Howdy, ma'am. Nice place you have here...
Windleaf: I see you're a cat lover!
Katrina: Well, I've found that pets make the workplace a little more
agreeable.
Some of the sailors complain... But I think it's because they're
trying to be macho.
Windleaf: Hmm...macho... Wouldn't know anyone with that particular problem!
Stinger: Hardy har har... Keep it up Windleaf...
Harv-5: What are your animals called?
Katrina: Tigerlily and Callie. Go ahead and pet them if you want!
---- Harv-5 walks across and bends to stroke a cat.
Windleaf: Isn't that cure, Stinger?
Stinger: You betcha...
Katrina: Hmm... I think the young master here, would rather look at some
merchandise!
---- Shows inventory.
Katrina: Thank you kindly for stopping in!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pirates Hangout
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A bar with a three people and a dart board. The place looks a bit
rough as there is something broken on the floor.
Stinger: Well...hopefully on the these guys can help us get to Metaboline.
Windleaf: Indeed.
McFarlane: Pardon me... Did you say 'Metaboline'?
Stinger: Yeah... Don't tell me you're afraid of it too!
Pann: Afraid...? Of an island? Har! Did ye hear that, Jacques?
Green
Jacques: Aye. That I did, lad.
Stinger: Well? Are you or aren't you?
Green
Jacques: This boy's got fire in him, eh? Reminds me of someone...
Pann: Yeah...fire and guts. Gotta have guts if he wants to go to Devil's
Island!
Terri: That, or a screw loose! Ha ha ha!
Stinger: Great. A pub full of harlequins.
Green
Jacques: This poor kid has dropped his funny bone somewhere! All right...
In answer to your question... No. We're not afraid of that place...
or any other thing!
Pann: Certainly not a scrap of a boy with a big mouth!
Terri: And a tiny sword! Har har har...
Stinger: Great! You're not afraid. So...you'll take us there?
Green
Jacques: Sure thing... For a price.
Stinger: How much?
Green
Jacques: 3000 gold, up front!
Whaddya say, boy?
It's a deal!
We can't afford that!
#Select It's a deal!
Green
Jacques: Right then! Meet us at the docks when you're ready to sail!
##Select We can't afford that!
Green
Jacques: Hmm... Can't afford it, eh?
Stinger: No!
Green
Jacques: How bad do you want to get there?
Stinger: Real bad...
Green
Jacques: Tell you what. You can work your way there.
Stinger: Work...?
Green
Jacques: That's right. I'm a little short-handed. Had a bit of
...'Treebaron' trouble recently.
Stinger: I...see.
Green
Jacques: Work on my ship, defend it if necessary, and we'll drop ye off when
we get there. Deal?
Stinger: It's a deal.
Green
Jacques: Fine! Settle your affairs and report to the ship when you're ready.
---- The party reforms. Speak to everyone again.
Terri: You guys are crazy to sign up with Jacques!
Stinger: If you say so. Could we get a drink?
Terri: What, you think I'm a barmaid? Ha1 I'm a sailor, same as everyone
else here!
Get yer own dang drink!
Stinger: Sorry...
Terri: That you are. And you'll be sorrier if you make a crack like that
again!
---- Speak to her again.
Terri: Good luck out there. You're gonna need it against the Baron!
Green
Jacques: Things'll be rough out there... You can thank the Baron for that!
Stinger: We can handle ourselves.
Green
Jacques: Har! Let's hope so.
---- Speak to him again.
Green
Jacques: Whoever said "A pirate's life for me" was a stark raving loony!
The hours stink, the food's lousy, and the pay...
Okay, the pay's nice. but everything else rots!
Pann: You know, by sailin' with us, you've just became outlaws.
Stinger: That's the chance we'll have to take.
Pann: Guts! I love it! Glad to have ya!
--- Speak to him again.
Pann: I hope you're good in a fight, cause there's a good chance we'll
find one out there.
McFarlane: Oy1 Not much to offer today, thanks to the dirty Treebaron!
Stinger: What?
McFarlane: That barnacle eater sank the frigate carryin' a shipment of goods
heading my way!
Stinger: Why?
McFarlane: Simple! The ship wasn't flyin' his colours!
Anything not under Treebaron colours is deemed a pirate ship and
sank!
Stinger: And people are putting up with this?
McFarlane: Heh. Most people are...
Not us, eh lads.
o--------o
| NEVER! |
o--------o
Stinger: Sounds good to me.
---- Speak to him again.
McFarlane: I tell ya, you're braver than me! I don't fancy being on a ship
that's a target for the Baron.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return to Eyre
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The party go back to Eyre while still in Chiore. Mervin is at the
entrance.
Mervin: Greetings to the Heroes.
Stinger: Hello, Mervin.
Mervin: Repairs are still underway. Entry is prohibited.
Stinger: But...
Mervin: You know me.
Stinger: Right. No buts.
---- They cannot get inside and Mervin will not say any more.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Dockside: Setting Sail
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: At the bottom of the steps is the wooden dock with a large ship
waiting. Pann and Green Jaques are standing on the jetty.
Pann: Hey, skipper! Look who's here!
Green
Jacques: Welcome aboard.
Stinger: Good lookin' ship you have here.
Green
Jacques: Ah, yes. The Hasty Exit is her name. One well earned, to be
certain!
Windleaf: I gather she's a fast ship.
Pann: None faster, miss!
Harv-5: Excellent. Speed is essential. We must reach Metaboline as soon
as possible.
Green
Jaques: Don't you worry, laddie. This old girl won't let you down!
Stinger: Glad to hear it.
Green
Jacques: So...
Ready to set sail?
Yes
No.
#Select No.
Green
Jaques: Well, then! Get a move on!
##Select Yes.
Green
Jaques: Excellent!
Mr Pann!
Pann: Yes, sir!
Green
Jaques: Make ready for the Deep Forest Sea!
Pann: Aye, aye cap'n!
---- FMV of the ship sailing out over the forest and then a cut scene of
it on the map, sailing north from Chiore,
---- Past Verne Island and nearly at Voltaire and a black ship attacks.
----------
The Attack
----------
Setting: The party and Green Jaques are on the ship's deck.
Stinger: What the... Who the heck's shooting at us?!
Green
Jacques: It's the Dauntless!
Harv-5: A pirate vessel?
Green
Jacques: Hardly!
It's the damned Treebaron! He's got us pinned! We're sittin'
ducks!
---- There is the sound of a shot.
Windleaf: Look out!
---- More cannon shot and the ship shakes.
Green
Jacques: Well, this rots...
We're goin' down for sure!
Stinger: NOW what?!
Green
Jacques: We're high atop the forest floor. The canopy will sustain your
weight if you find a scrap of the ship to hang onto.
Better yet, make your way to one of the lifeboats.
Whatever you do, make sure you don't fall from the canopy!
If you do, there's no telling how far you'll fall...
...and there's no knowing what will be waiting to greet you down
below.
There's lots of critters with teeth down there...
Stinger: Beautiful...
Green
Jaques: Now, head for the far side of the boat, and look for an intact
lifeboat!
Good luck, and may Keerg's pearly-whites be grinning down upon you
this day!
---- FMV of the ship sinking and the three of them in a lifeboat.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Voltaire Island 0262
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o-------------------o
| Sometime later... |
o-------------------o
---------
The Beach
---------
Setting: On a beach with many trees in the background.
Stinger: Of all the bum luck!
Who's idea was it to hitch a ride on that garbage scow, anyway?
Windleaf: Harv-5, I think Stinger still has some canopy leaves or something
lodged between his ears.
Would you please hold him upside down while I slap the stuff loose?
Harv-5: My pleasure. There will be...justice.
Stinger: Back off, Harv-5! And Windleaf, I don't need your lip right now!
Windleaf: Well, what splendid ideas do you have to get us off of this island?
Stinger: Keerg's blood, why me? Why did I have to get stuck here with you
two?
Next time, why don't you two go down with the ship, and I'll be the
sole survivor?
Windleaf: We should be so lucky...
Harv-5: Going down with the ship would not be prudent.
Stinger: No, but it would put an end to all this nonsense!
Windleaf: Fine. Sit there and feel sorry for yourself.
It won't change he fact that we're stranded here.
Harv-5: I would suggest we get moving. Otherwise, we will be easy targets
for a Dauntless shore party.
Windleaf: He's right, you know... We're in no condition to fight right now...
Stinger: Who died and put Harv-5 in charge?
I'm staying right here until I'm good and ready to go!
Windleaf: (sigh) Do what you want, Stinger. Come on, Harv-5, let's take a
look around and see what we can find.
Harv-5: Affirmative.
---- The two of them walk away to the right.
Stinger: Hey, where do you think you're going! Don't you think we should
stick together?
I mean, for all we know this place could be full of hostile savages!
You know...safety in numbers and all that?!
Windleaf: Listen to him, Harv-5...!
It would appear that "Mister Leavemealone" wants to tag along...
Should we let him?
Harv-5: For once Stinger is correct. We should not divide ourselves until
we ascertain whether it is safe to do so.
Windleaf: All right, then. Stinger, you may accompany us. But please stop
your whining.
Stinger: All right...so I got upset! I'm just doing the best I can, okay?!
---- He walks to join the others.
Windleaf: We forgive you... I think...
Harv-5: Hopefully, we will have ample time for whining at a later date.
Stinger: Stuff it, Harv-5.
---- They join up as one group. Walk up the beach to the north.
Stinger: People, we could walk around on this island for days and not find
anything!
Windleaf: Stinger, what did I tell you about your whining?
Your constant spewing will be the death of us all, one day!
Stinger: Look, I'm getting sick of your attitude. You think you're so much
better than me, but...
Harv-5: Silence! I detect a foreign presence.
Stinger: Well we are in a foreign place for Keerg's sake!
Windleaf: Sssssh! Shut up already!
---- A person approaches from the right.
Navigator: !!!
Stinger: Look!
Windleaf: We see her, okay?
Stinger: Let's grab her before she gets away, come on!
---- The person runs off up the path.
Windleaf: Such elegant subtlety... Yes, you continue to be a surprise,
Stinger.
I'm sure most girls fall under your spell just like that one did,
no?
Stinger: You couldn't get a date with a Bulrazor's butt!
Harv-5: You must stop this childish argument. The "strange one" is getting
away.
She has left behind her calling card.
Stinger: Come again?
Harv-5: Her tracks. We can follow her.
Stinger: Oh. Right.
Windleaf: Enough already. Let's go.
---- The party regroups. They walk up the track and go right.
Stinger: Wait! Come back!
---- They follow a twisting path.
Stinger: Where in Keerg's nostrils did she go?
Windleaf: As far away from you as she could get, no doubt!
Stinger: Enough with the verbal abuse, already! Just drop it!
And...
Hey...what the hell is that stench? It's like rotting flesh, but
worse!
Harv-5: This area is alive with fungi. They propagate by releasing their
spores into the air...
---- There is the growl of a monster.
Windleaf: I think there are other ...things around here, too...
Stinger: What was your first clue?
Windleaf: Oh, give me strength...
Don't tell me you're going to carry that grudge forever...
Stinger: Maybe...
Windleaf: You're so...!
Look, let's just turn our attention to where that 'person' went,
okay?!
Stinger: Fine by me...
---- They join up again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Hive Village
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
First Hut
---------
Setting: The round hive has two fearsome masks on the wall and two cabinets
full of spears. There are two curved chairs.
Fritz: A slaver! Aiiieeeeee!
Stinger: Whoa... hold on there chief!
Angus: Fritz, alert the Elders. Sound the siren!
Stinger: Hey, we're only here to find some help!
Our ship was attacked...we had to ride the wreckage ashore...
Angus: Sure. And you were just passing by, eh?
Stinger: There was a woman...we followed her this way.
Angus: Ah, a scout. She'll be of no help to you.
Fritz: Sorry, pal. No offence, but Topsiders are all the same. Can't
trust 'em.
You'll need to speak with the Elders if you're looking for...help.
Meanwhile, we'll be keeping a close eye on ya. Enjoy your stay!
Stinger: Thanks for the hospitality.
---- Speak to them again.
Angus: What now? This isn't the bloody tourist association. Beat it!
Fritz: You'll be Topsider kebab if you don't get lost, pal.
-----------
Bird's Nest
-----------
Setting: A very large nest is at the end of the left walkway. There is a huge
egg inside it.
Stinger: One can almost smell the bacon frying...and the coffee brewing...
----------
Second Hut
----------
Setting: A large pot is on a fire pit in the centre of the hive. There is a
table and bunk beds and the same two chairs and a mask on the wall.
Joi: Aiiieee! Slavers! I didn't hear the siren!
Stinger: (Oh for Keerg's sake...) We're not Slavers.
Windleaf: We didn't mean to startle you.
Harv-5: Please explain. What is a Slaver?
Joi: The spineless cowards! They attack in the night...or the day...or
whenever!
We;'e been raided three times in the last month. No one's gotten
much peace around here lately.
Windleaf: That's horrible! What do they want with your people?
Joi: The Dendrokin harness the morphic field of trees.
Stinger: ???
Joi: The Treebaron and his greedy rogues have enslaved our people to
guide their ships.
Stinger: Guide their ships?
Joi: Those who have the skill can guide ships faster and safer than any
Topsider.
Those who don't prove their skill are sent to his shipyards!
Only ast week they captured poor Jalez.
Stinger: The lout! I knew he had some kind of advantage.
Joi: Ah, but you look like you need a good meal. Care for some
Needlespitter stew?
Stinger: Thanks. It smells...uh, delicious, but we wouldn't want to impose.
Windleaf: Yes, we really must be going. Thanks!
---- The group reforms. Speak to Joi again.
Joi: Ah, poor Jalez.
---------
Third Hut
---------
Setting: There is a fire pit and two chairs and a bunk bed in here.
Jobarif: Doesn't anyone knock around here anymore?
Stinger: We're looking for the Elders.
Jobarif: The Elders? They're not much help. Best fend for yourselves around
here.
---- Speak to her again.
Jobarif: I've for fires to tend to and screamin' kids to look after. Better
clear out of here.
---------------------------
Hut between the two Ladders
---------------------------
Setting: This hut is is similar to the first one, with spears in a cupboard
and a mask and two chairs.
Glut: How did you slimes get past the front post?
Stinger: We were graciously invited to stay in your fine model village.
---- Speak to him again.
Glut: Move any closer and you'll be pulling back a stump.
Now, invite yourselves outta here.
Zoin; Best be on your way or you'll be pickin' your teeth up off the
ground.
Stinger: We'll be making tracks out of here soon enough.
---- Speak again.
Zoin: You'll be main' tracks in yer shorts when I git through with ya!
Scram!
---- Check the chair by the door.
o----------------------------o
| Hand-carved 'mung' chair. |
| Improves the circulation. |
o---------------------------o
--------------------------
Down the Right Hand Ladder
--------------------------
Setting: Down the right hand ladder to the grass again. There are two white
rabbits.
Stinger: These seem harmless enough, but...who knows? Maybe they strip
flesh off bones in nothing flat. better keep moving...
-------------------------
Down the left hand ladder.
-------------------------
Setting: There are two hives, one is small and the other larger.
-------------
Small Beehive
-------------
Setting: There are two children and a child's cart on the ground and various
play things.
Mika: Are you our new babysitter?
Stinger: Er, no, sorry.
Tobi: Oh. Know any good jokes?
Stinger: Sorry, fresh out.
Mika: I've got a good one. Wanna hear it?
o---------------------------------o
| Want to hear a really bad joke? |
| Yes |
| No |
o---------------------------------o
#Select No.
Stinger: Hey, I think your mum is calling you!
Mika: Wait, I've got another one!
Stinger: You had better not give up your day job, kid.
##Select Yes. {What else? Heh.}
Mika: Knock knock.
Stinger: (Sigh...) Who's there?
Mika: Tree.
Stinger: Tree who?
Mika: Tree idiots in my room! Ha, ha, ha...!
Stinger: Oh dear!
o---------------------------------o
| Can you stand another one? |
| Yes |
| No |
o---------------------------------o
---- Select Yes.
Tobi: Why did the Treebaron get mad at the Forest?
Stinger: I don't know. Why?
Tobi: 'Cause it doused him with a canopy...
Get it? a "can 'o pee!" Ha, ha...whoohoo...!
Stinger: Charming...
Hey, I think you're mum is calling you!
Mika: Wait I've got another one!
Stinger: You had better not give up your day job, kid.
---- Speak to them both again.
Tobi: You smell funny. You need a bath!
Mika: Mum said we have to go eat now.
-------------
Large Beehive
-------------
Setting: There are three bunk beds and an old lady.
Jess: Ah, visitors! Care to stay at our fine inn?
Stinger: You call this an Inn? How much?
Jess: That'll be...hmm...what was it...ahhh...
Ah, yes! One gold piece, please! I know that's a lot these days,
but...
Stinger: That's quite all right.
Jess: Want to stay?
Yes
No
#Select No
Jess: Suit yourself.
---- The Sentry enters.
Sentry: The Elders will see you now.
#Select Yes
Sentry: The Elders will see you now.
-----------
By the Pond
-----------
Setting: In the open next to a pool where an orange fish is jumping and there
are two elders standing between the trunks of two large trees.
Galeb: Ah, our Guests.
Stinger: Thanks for making us feel so welcome.
Maret: Please understand. We are cautious with strangers.
---- Windleaf moves to stand facing the pool.
Windleaf: I've seen something very similar to this before. I feel its energy.
Galeb: It's a source of untold power. We were named Guardians of the Mana
in return for helping the Three Trees.
Harv-5: Did I hear you correctly? You hold an alliance with...trees?
Maret: Yes. Long ago we lived among the Toparri.
This lasted until the Great Rebellion, led by the infamous Nagruk.
Galeb: Many died in the rebellion. For his part in the bloodshed Nagruk
was turned to stone.
We fled to the tunnels.
Maret: We survived in the tunnels, biding our time.
After years in hiding, we emerged here, under the Great Canopy...
and amidst the Trees!
Galeb: The Trees have given us a home and nurtured our morphic powers.
Windleaf: Morphic powers...?
Maret: Each living thing has a field within and around it.
We know how to control this energy.
Galeb: This power was granted to us by the Three Trees, so that we might
be able to eke out our existence here under the Canopy...
Without this power, our village would be overrun by the natural
processes of the Forest.
Maret: Then...the Topsiders arrived. They discovered this gift and began
their experiments.
Stinger: Huh? What experiments?
Maret: Varley's men capture our people and take them to a prison...
Galeb: There they are tested for morphic abilities. If they pass, they
are forced to work as Navigators.
Maret: Varley has manned his fleet of ships with a Navigator at the helm
of each vessel.
Those of us who show minimal abilities are sent to work at the
shipyards.
Galeb: There are only a few Dendrokin left with morphic ability.
Unless we put a stop to the raids, our village will be absorbed
back into the forest...as will we...
Stinger: I've got my own bone to pick with Varley. He won't get away with
this!
Maret: We are not warriors. We need your help to stop the raids.
Galeb: What little defences we have are no match for Varley's men.
Maret: Alert! Run! Hide! The nets! THE NETS!!!!!
---- The screen goes black.
---------
The Glade
---------
Setting: The group are now at the glade. There are two Slavers, and standing
between them is Mannheim!
Slaver: The village is over there Lord Mannheim. It's full of Navigators!
Mannheim: Yessss...and there are some celebrity guests as well!
Stinger: You again!
Harv-5: Mannheim. I am not surprised. Such devilry was bound to attract
you.
Windleaf: This is Mannheim?! I was expecting someone...taller...more
intimidating.
Mannheim: The fair Windleaf! We meet at last...
Windleaf: I wish I could say this was a pleasure.
Mannheim: And so witty, too...!
Lord Hokum will have his work cut out for him when it comes time
to...train you.
Stinger: I think I've heard enough. The last time we met, you ran off like
a whipped dog.
Gonna be a man and stick around this time?
Mannheim: Oh...most definitely. You picked the wrong man to insult, whelp.
Seize them...take them alive...
---- Battle.
Mannheim: How utterly irritating! Don't you people know how difficult it is
to find good lackeys?
I spend weeks training them, and poof! You kill them in moments!
Stinger: I weep for you.
Mannheim: Phaugh! This is tedious! Enjoy the sleep of the damned!
Stinger: Not...again... (cough...choke...)
----------
The Prison
----------
Setting: The screen goes black and a new screen shows Mannheim speaking to a
lackey inside a prison.
Mannheim: Keep an eye on them, lackey. Should they escape...
Sailor: They'll not get by me, sir!
Mannheim: I hope not...For your sake.
---- Mannheim leaves.
Sailor: (gulp)
-----------------------
Captain Varley's Office
-----------------------
Setting: A large nautical looking room with a desk, telescope and rescue ring.
Captain
Varley Ah...Lord Mannheim. I see you've brought in some interesting
guests.
Mannheim: Most certainly. See to it that they are closely watched.
Captain
Varley: Are you joking? They're rabble! What threat are they to the
Barony?
Mannheim: You...dare to question me, lackey?
Captain
Varley: Er...ah...No, milord...it's just that...
Mannheim: Think less, obey more. It suits you.
That 'rabble', as you so delicately put it, have cut a swath
through our troops across Arkose!
Captain
Varley: I...I had no idea...
Mannheim: When an original idea enters that hollow blob you call a head, I
shall be truly impressed.
Captain
Varley: Er...as you say, milord.
Mannheim: Quite right. Now then...to business.
I have a most cunning solution to your little 'pirate'
dilemma...listen closely...
---- The screen goes black and Stinger enters escorted by two guards.
Mannheim has gone.
Captain
Varley: Thank you, guards. You're dismissed.
Sailor: Aye, aye, sir!
---- The guards leave.
Captain
Varley: Good day, uh...Stinger, isn't it?
Stinger: That's right. Who the hell are you?
Captain
Varley; ... Amazing...
Stinger: Your name is Amazing? Wow...what were YOUR parents smoking?
Captain
Varley: Don't be insolent, boy. I've had men killed for less.
I am baron Sedgwick Varley, lord of Dantyr.
Stigner: So you're this "Treebaron" I've been hearing about?
Captain
Varley: The same.
Stinger: Thought you'd be taller...
Captain
Varley: I'll get to the point.
Lord Mannheim has graciously agreed to turn you over to my custody.
Stinger: What a pal.
Captain
Varley: You'll find me a much more...lenient master than he, I'm certain.
Stinger: What's this 'master' garbage? I'm no one's slave!
Captain
Varley: Oh, I disagree. You are mine. Bought and sold.
And you will do my bidding...or...well...
Let's say the outcome will be most unpleasant.
Stinger: What does that mean?
Captain
Varley: It means I'll hand the girl and the machine over to Lord
Mannheim...and his tender mercies.
You, I'll have beaten to death and fed to my dogs.
Stinger: Gee, I always get the best prize...
Captain
Varley: On the other hand... If you co-operate...
Stinger: Yeah?
Captain
Varley: I shall release the girl and the robot...free to do as they please.
Stinger: I suppose I have your 'word as a gentleman' on that?
Captain
Varley: But of course!
Stigner: I also suppose I have no choice...so...what the hell do you want
from me?
Captain
Varley: Simple. You're quite the killer...so I want you to kill an enemy
of mine.
The so-called "Pirate King." I grow tired of his little acts of
rebellion.
I recently discovered his lair...I shall deliver you to it...then
retrieve you when your work is done.
Stinger: Why don't you kill him yourself? Afraid?
Captain
Varley: Hardly. It's a matter of...image, really.
If I kill him, I'm a tyrant...he's a martyr.
If you kill him, however... It's a case of one piece of filth
fighting another.
Stinger: "No honour among thieves..." Right. You're a piece of work,
Varley...
Captain
Varley: So I am told.
What will it be, then?
Join me and live...
Or take the 'big plunge..." It's that simple.
Stinger: ...
You've got a deal, Varley. Keerg help you if you cross me.
Captain
Varley: Heh heh heh. The same goes for you, my young assassin.
Guards!
---- The guards return.
Captain
Varley: Please escort Mister Stinger to his quarters on the Dauntless.
Stigner: Dauntless...?
Captain
Varley: We set sail at dawn, assassin. I suggest you get some rest.
Wouldn't want to imperil your friends, would you? Heh heh heh...
---- The guards take Stinger away. Mannheim appears in some smoke.
Captain
Varley: Lord Mannheim... Is that truly necessary? Everyone else uses the
door...
Mannheim: I'm not everyone else. Mind your tone or you shall discover how
unique I am...
Captain
Varley: Er...yes, milord.
Mannheim: So... What do you think of our new slave?
Captain
Varley: Uncanny... The resemblance...the attitude...
Mannheim: Yes, it's quite remarkable. I do love irony...especially in such a
dark form.
Captain
Varley: Do you think he'll succeed?
Mannheim: Perhaps. If he fails, I expect you to finish the task.
Captain
Varley: And if he keeps his part of the bargain?
Mannheim: Then he will join his friends in the service of Lord Hokum...
Either way, we win.
Captain
Varley: As you say, milord...
Mannheim: I have business to tend to. See to it that this matter is wrapped
up when I return.
Captain
Varley: Yes, milord.
Mannheim: And watch those prisoners! Especially the girl! She's quite
dangerous.
Captain
Varley: Yes, milord. They're in good hands.
Mannheim: Hands...yes. Hands. Fail me, and I'll cut yours off...
---- Mannheim disappears in a puff of smoke.
Captain
Varley: (cough cough) Jackass...
---- Screen goes black.
o----------------------o
| Several days later...|
o----------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Petit Island 0263
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------
Petit Island
-----------
Setting: Stinger is on a jetty. There is a small red island with a few bare
trees and huts scattered between them. He moves onto the island.
Stinger: Lovely place...
There's a guy here doing the right thing...fighting Varley...
And me...I have to kill him...
Chances are Varley's gonna double-cross me one way or the other.
Could my luck get any worse? (sigh)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beth's Shack
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A shop with baskets and things on shelves. There are many small
pictures on the back wall.
Beth: Greetings, stranger... You one of the new recruits?
Stinger: Recruits...? Uh...yeah, that's right.
Beth: You certainly dress like a newbie. Nice sword, though.
Stinger: Gee, that's swell.
Beth: Oh don't pout about it! You're going to get a lot worse from the
crew!
Stinger: I suppose...
Beth: So...you gonna stand around all day?
Stinger: Huh...?
Beth: Most guys come in here to buy something or ask me out.
Stinger: !!!
Beth: So...what's it going to be, new guy?
Stinger: Uh...heh heh...I'll take a look at your wares...
Beth: That's what you think!
Stinger: (blush)
Beth: Step up and check it out, chief.
---- Shows the shop inventory.
Beth: Well, thanks for stopping by, big fella.
Do come again.
---- Speak to her again.
Beth: You again, huh? Hmm...
Stinger: ...
Uh...hi. Still got those goods?
Beth: Right... here are the goods...again.
Come back soon... Hee hee!
---- Check the baskets and shelves.
o------------------------------o
| Grasses, barks and various |
| healing unguents and salves. |
o------------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Odd pictures of...sheep... |
| Decorate the back wall. |
o----------------------------o
------------
Main Village
-----------
Setting: There is a central blue pool and four huts circled around it.
Stinger: (Figures...a place like this...perfect hideout for pirates...)
(This {Pirate King loser's bound to be in one the these shacks...)
(Might as well get started. Can't imagine Varley's gonna wait
around forever...)
(Why does this crap always happen to me?!?)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Petit Inn
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There is a large bed with a white cover, a large pot and a simple
wooden chair. There is dark skinned girl dressed in bright colours.
Kona: Hello there. You must be one of the new crewmen.
Stinger: Yep. Crewman Stinger, that's me!
Kona: What an...interesting name you have, sir.
Stinger: Thanks. What's yours?
Kona: I am called Kona. This is my Inn.
Stinger: It's a nice place.
Kona: Thank you. I suppose you'd like to reserve a bed?
Stinger: Uh...sure. how much?
Kona: Ah...you haven't been briefed yet!
Lodging is free to the crew. It's the least we can do to help them
fight Varley.
Stinger: Varley...
Kona: Yes. He razed our beautiful island because we wouldn't pay for
his...protection.
We've rebuilt...but the trees are gone forever.
Stinger: Sorry to hear that.
Kona: It's sad...but the Captain says we shall have our revenge...some
day.
Stinger: ...
Kona: Anyway...feel free to make yourself at home!
Stinger: Thanks.
Kona: Would you like to rest now?
Yes
No
#Select Yes.
##Select No.
Kona: Your bed's here when you need it.
---- Check the things in the room: a collection of logs and the pot.
o-------------------------o
| Jungle juggling set. |
| Made of palm hardwood. |
o-------------------------o
o----------------------------------o
| Filled with brackish rain water. |
o----------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kemo's Bistro
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A wooden hut with a couple of neat tables and chairs and shelves with
pots and plates, a sink and a stove. Kemo is a sturdy dark-skinned man.
Kemo: Hey there, bwah! you my new dishwasher?
Stinger: Hell, no! Do I look like a dishwasher?
Kemo: Ho ho ho! You don' wanna know what I think you look like, bwah!
Stinger: Then keep it to yourself, smart guy!
Kemo: Oh, yeah. That I will, bwah.
Stinger: (sniff, sniff) What's that cooking?
Kemo: Oh...just some o' my barbecued ribs...
Stinger: Sounds good! Gimme some.
Kemo: Oh, no no, bwah. You far too frail for Kemo's ribs!
Stinger: I'll be the judge of that. Serve 'em up, pronto.
Kemo: It's your funeral, bwah. Here you go.
Stinger: (Smack, smack) Mmm...those're pretty good ribs...
Kemo: Oh, that's a fact, bwah. No one cooks the ribs better than Kemo.
Stinger: Kinda...spicy...though.......
Kemo: Spicy you say, bwah? Hmm...
Stinger: Y-yeah...hoo...whoa...
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
---- He starts running up and down the hut.
Stinger: W....w....wuh..
Kemo: You need some water then, bwah?
Stinger: Y...yuh...yahhh...
Kemo: Comin' right up, bwah. Here you go...
Stinger: Hooooooooooooooooo!
Damn, that stuff is HOT! Whadda you put in it?!?
Kemo: That's Kemo's secret, bwah.
Stinger: Yeesh! Thought I was gonna die!
Kemo: You do better than i thought with the sauce, bwah. You ain't so
frail after all!
Stinger: Thanks a heap...Think I'm gonna go die now.
Kemo: Ho ho ho! Another satisfied customer!
---- Speak to him again.
Kemo: How do, bwah! You ready for some more o' Kemo's ribs?
Stinger: No thanks... I've faced death enough lately.
---- Check the sink.
o------------------------------o
| Clean hands are happy hands! |
| Always use plenty of soap! |
o------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Massage Parlour (no name to the hut in the game)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There is a large whit sheeted table and half a dozen red chairs.
There is a pair of white boots by the table and a girl in bright clothes.
Kimber: Hello there.
Stinger: Hi.
Kimber: Ready for a massage?
Stinger: Uh...
Kimber: Well...?
Stinger: Uh...yeah...I suppose...
Kimber: Well...you'll need to lose most of those clothes.
Stinger: !!!
Kimber: Hmm...you've never had a massage before, have you?
Stinger: Nope...
Kimber: Sure you want one now?
Yes
No
#Select: Yes
Kimber: Okay... Here we go...
---- The screen goes black.
Kimber: Just relax...
Stinger: ...
Kimber: Almost done... Just a little joint work...
Stinger: ...
Kimber: Just a little more...
o-----------------o
| Party refreshed |
| from massage! |
o-----------------o
---- Screen lights up again, and Stinger stretches his arms.
Stinger: Wow...
Kimber: Feel better?
Stinger: Sure do!
Thought you were foing to snap my spine there for a minute though.
Kimber: Hee hee hee! Well, try not to be such a baby next time.
Stinger: (blush)
Kimber: Take care, now.
o----------o
| Continue |
| Save |
| Quit |
o---------o
---- Check the boots.
o---------------------------o
| Naugahyde boots made from |
| Wild Petit Island naugas! |
o---------------------------o
---- Check the bottle on the small table.
o----------------------------------o
| Frontal Lobotomate (R) |
| Your friendly spirit with punch! |
| Caution: Flammable! |
o----------------------------------o
---- Check the chairs
o-------------------------------------o
| 6 stern chairs for 6 stern friends. |
o-------------------------------------o
---- Check the white table
o----------------------------o
| Book jacket reads: |
| The Allure of High Fashion |
| By Alli Kat Press |
| Karillon |
o----------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Petit Lodge
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A large wooden hut with bright lamps and three red arm chairs. There
are three people, one of whom is Green Jacques.
Stinger: Which one of you is the loser that calls himself the Pirate King?
Riley: What's it to you, squab?
Green
Jacques: Stinger...? thought you were dead, boy!
Stinger: Same here...and the day ain't over yet...
Green
Jacques: What...? What're you up do?
Stinger: I asked you all a question. Who's the Pirate King?
Captain
Pyke: That's be me...
Stinger: Sorry about this...but it's time for you to die!
Riley: Assassin! Get him!!!
Green
Jacques: Hold on! There must be an explanation!
Stinger: I got no choice, old man!
For my friends to live, you gotta die! So come on and fight!
---- Riley walks across the room to stand in front of Captain Pyke.
Riley: Over my dead body, Varleystooge! Take another step and you'll be
bleedin'!
Stinger: Have it your way, moron...
Captain
Pyke: Enough!!! This is my fight!
Stinger: About time... Step aside, loser... Let the old man go out
fighting...
Riley: Grrr...
Captain
Pyke: Stand down, mister. That's an order.
Riley: But, captain...
Green J: You heard the captain, Riley. Stand down!
---- Riley moves back.
C. Pyke: Look me in the eye, boy. Yes, I thought so.
Can't you see?
Stinger: I see a man who's about to die. Talkin' ain't gonna save you!
C. Pyke: Put the rage aside. Look...closely.
Stinger: ...
What are you, some kind of a New Age religious nut?
C. Pyke: My name is Erik Pyke. And...unless I'm mistaken, you're...
...my son...
Green J: I knew there was somethin' familiar about that boy...
Stinger: WHAT!!!
Nice try old man.
My dad died at sea!
C. Pyke: So that's what your mother told you!
Ah, Arinae... So quick to deny the truth...
Stinger: How...how do you know...my mother's name...?
Riley: Are ya deaf? He's your father! Why wouldn't he know her name?
Stinger: When I want your opinion, I'll beat it out of you...
C. Pyke: Keerg's blood... Varley sent my own son to kill me...
Stinger: So what. So you know my mum's name...doesn't mean you're my dad...
C. Pyke: You were born in 436, in the spring, in Karillon. We moved to Port
Lochane a year later.
You caught pneumonia on the way. If we hadn't met that healer in
Enclaan, you probably would have died.
Your mother's maiden name is Baum.
You're exactly 9 years younger than your cousin, Brink.
Stinger: This...this can't be happening...it's like some dumb fairy
tale...only worse...!
C. Pyke: Your first word was 'deadbeat', which is what your mother often
used to call me...
...too often...
How much more of this am I gonna have to dredge up?
Stinger: Shut up! Just shut up, okay! Just shut up...
C. Pyke: How else could I know these things...?
I'm telling you, I'm your father...
Stinger: You...you couldn't...you can't be...
You died...
And I've spent a lot of time cursing your sorry ass...
You left me alone...us alone. Why didn't you send word back?
C. Pyke: Who says I didn't? Look, I'll admit it, I wasn't your mum's
favourite person in the world...
I made soem mistakes...
I'm not proud of what I did... But I listened to her.
I did as she asked...as she demanded, and stayed away. It wasn't
easy, boy. You'll never know...
Stinger: Well...now you have another problem.
Varley's sent me...
He's bound to send someone else if I don't turn up with your head
in a knapsack.
Green J.: Boy's got a point, Erik. It may be time to put an end to this once
and for all.
C. Pyke: Jacques...we're not ready to battle the Baron's fleet. Attacking
now would be suicide.
Stinger: You don't need to hit the fleet.
C. Pyke; Kid...s...son, you don't understand. The fleet enforces his rule.
It has to be destroyed if we're to take him down.
Stinger: What if you were to kill him? Wouldn't that do the same thing?
C. Pyke: He never leaves Treeside... Hence the need to deal with the fleet.
Stinger: I've got news for you "pop." He HAS left Treeside.
He's on a boat out there, waiting for a signal from me.
Green J: Whaaaaaaat?!? Varley's left the roost?!?
Riley: The dogson must think he's got us licked!
C. Pyke: His arrogance may be his undoing...how many escorts does he have?
Stinger: None. it's just one ship, the Dauntless.
Green J: The same damn ship that sunk the Hasty Exit! Idiot!
C. Pyke: It's risky...he might have something up his sleeve here. This
could be a trap...
Stinger: So what? This guy's gotta go down! Fight now, or wait until he
comes for you in force!
Green J.: It's time, Erik. Time we stood up to him. Time we put things
right.
C. Pyke: ...
Mister Riley...ready the crew.
Riley: Aye, aye sir!
---- Riley leaves the hut.
C. Pyke: We've got some planning to do, Jacques...son...
Stinger: Let's get to it then...
---- Stinger walks up to Pyke and they begin to talk.
o----------o
| Later... |
o----------o
---- They are all in the hut.
C. Pyke: ...so, that's it. We send the signal to pick up Stinger, then when
he moves in...
Riley: POW! We come around and let him have it! I love a good ambush!
C. Pyke: Kid...son... This is bound to be dangerous. You should stay here.
Stinger: Are you nuts?! I've got my own score to settle with this guy!
I'm going.
Green J.: Like father...
C. Pyke: Shut up, Jacques... All right, boy. You're in.
Stinger: Damn right I am!
C. Pyke: Get yourself squared away then report back here when you're good
to go.
Stinger: Don't worry about me, old man. I'm ready to go NOW!
C. Pyke: He gets that from his mother.
Green J.: Oh, to be certain! Not a bit like his old man. No, not at all.
C. Pyke: Stuff it, Jacques.
---- The conversation stops. Check the chairs.
o---------------------------o
| Naugahyde chair made from |
| Wild Petit Island naugas! |
o---------------------------o
---- Speak to them all again.
Green J.: Glad you survived the wreck of the Hasty Exit, Stinger.
Stinger: That makes us a pair How'd you make it?
Green J.: Dumb luck...clung to some debris stuck in the canopy...they left me
for dead.
Stinger: Lucky you... My friends and I just had to push our way to shore...
Green J.: Ah, your friends...you say Varley has them?
Stinger: Yeah...told me he'd turn them over to an enemy of mine if I didn't
do a job for him.
Green J.: Blackmail's always ugly, boy. Keep your chin up! We'll thwart the
fool yet!
Stinger: Hope you're right...
---- Speak to him again.
Green J.: Good luck out there. I'll be here, setting up the "bait" as it
were.
Riley: Hope you fight as good as you talk, kid.
C. Pyke: So...kid. There's so much we need to catch up on...
Stinger: One thing at a time. We need to deal with Varley first...
C. Pyke: As you say...
You...ready to go?
Stinger: I was born ready.
C. Pyke: Stop talking like an advertisement.
This is going to be dangerous.
We'll be taking the Sea Hawk...
Stinger: Your ship?
C. Pyke: That's right. Try not to embarrass me in front of my crew!
Stinger: Don't worry, old man. I can fight just fine.
C. Pyke: We'll soon see.
Stinger: Try and keep up, okay? Wouldn't want you looking bad in front of
the crew!
C. Pyke: Touche'! Let's go, lad!
---- Screen goes black and now they are on the deck of the ship.
Stinger: Hope Varley's as stupid as he looks...
C. Pyke: He'll take the bait. He's been waiting a long time for this.
Riley: I can see the smoke from the signal fire...we'll know soon enough!
Look there! Off the starboard bow!
Stinger: It's a ship, all right!
C. Pyke: Varley's colours... Got to be the Dauntless.
Stinger: Let's do this!
C. Pyke: Mister Riley... Set an intercept course. Full speed!
Riley: Aye, aye sir!
----- FMV of the ships and the pirates attacking.
C. Pyke: All right, boy! Time for you to show what you're made of!
Stinger: Ready when you are, old man!
C. Pyke: Let's do it, then.
Stinger: Let's!
C. Pyke: To the Dauntless! Let's board that bucket and scuttle it!
Stinger: And her captain with it!
o-------------------------------o
| Captain Pyke joins the party! |
o-------------------------------o
---- Stinger and Captain Pyke are on a ship's deck facing three enemies.
C. Pyke: Looks like Varley sent boys to do a man's job.
Stinger: If they're smart, they'll jump overboard.
Sailor: Kill them! FOr the Baron!
C. Pyke: So much for smart.
---- Battle.
C. Pyke: So much for that riff-raff!
Stinger: Don't get cocky, Pyke! This tub's crawling with goons!
---- Three more battle sailors approach.
Stinger: See what I mean?!
C. Pyke: Show some backbone, son. Forget these losers. It's their skipper
we want!
Ensign: You'll have to kill us first!
C. Pyke: Oh, well, in that case...
---- Battle.
C. Pyke: Hustle, son! We must be close!
Stinger: Hope so...
---- Captain Varley walks up to them.
C. Varley: Well, well. The pariah returns at last!
C. Pyke: Varley... I've been waiting for this.
C. Varley: No more than I.
Stinger: That makes three of us.
C. Varley: Ah, yes. The boy with the sassy mouth.
You must get that from your mother because your Daddy's just a
spineless loser!
Stinger: Leave my mother out of this, dogson...
C. Varley: Well, from what I hear, there's not much left of her, anyway, right
boy?
C. Pyke: Enough talk. You've sent too many people to early graves. your
reign stops here and now, "Baron".
C. Varley: As you wish.
---- Battle.
C. Pyke: At last...justice...revenge...satisfaction...
Stinger: It's over, Varley. And so is your little empire.
C. Varley: N...never...(groan)
C. Pyke: Deluded fool...
Go get something to carry this jackal on, son. He'll live to stand
trial.
Stinger: What?! I say we pitch him overboard, into the canopy! Let the
beasties chew on him!
C. Pyke: Do as I say, boy! He must face trial, else we're no batter than he.
Stinger: All right... I'm going...
---- Stinger starts to walk away off the ship deck. Pyke and Varley are
facing each other on the deck.
C. Varley: Who is... laughing now, fool...
C. Pyke: Eh...?
C. Varley: Join me...
...in deaaaattthhh...
---- Varley stabs Pyke and collapses to the ground.
C. Pyke: Aaaaagh!
---- Pyke begins to fall backwards and Stinger rushes to him.
Stinger: Pyke! D...dad!!!
C. Pyke: Uuuugh... Stupid of me...careless...
Got me with a...dagger. Poison...
Stinger: Hold on! Gotta have a potion or something to heal...
C. Pyke: Not...going to...happen, son...there ain't no magic wand you can
wave over me...
And I'm not much for those...(cough)
...mystic arts, anyway...
Stinger: Stop being stupid...I do this stuff all the time...
---- A pause while Riley returns.
Riley: Captain!
Stinger: Riley!!! you got a healing potion?
Riley: Well, yeah, I think so...I like to hedge my bets, you know...
Stinger: Don't just stand there! Give it to me, moron! He's dying here!
Riley: Right!
Stinger: Hold on, dad...! There! This should do the trick!
C. Pyke: Uurggghh...(groan)
Stinger: See? Told ya!
C. Pyke: Guess...you did...at that...
Stinger: Gimme a hand, Riley. We gotta get him outta here!
---- Black screen.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back on Petit Island
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: At the far east end of the island Riley and Stinger are talking.
Riley: Hey! Stinger!
Just got back from the safehouse...
Stinger: How safe is safe?
Riley: Don't worry. Varley's men will never find him. Jacques'll see to
that.
Stinger: How's...er, the captain doing, anyway?
Riley: He'll be okay... eventually.
Whatever Varley hit him with was pretty wicked. He's lucky to be
alive.
Stinger: I know I should go see him...but I'm not ready to deal with all of
that.
Riley: He's sleepin' now, anyway...
Stinger: Just as well. Someday I'll come back and visit...I guess I need to
hear his side of the story.
Riley: That's your business, kid. But I do need to tell you that he give
me an order before he went to sleep.
Stinger: Yeah?
Riley: He told me that you that unfinished business...
Stinger: That's right...
Riley: ...and that effective immediately, you'd be the captain of the Sea
Hawk...
Stinger: You're joking!
Riley: Nope.
Stinger: Wow...my own ship at last!
Riley: Hey now...until the Captain's on his feet, you hear!
Stinger: Right...right.
Riley: I'll be in the Lodge. Come and get me when you're ready to go...
Captain.
---- Riley walks away.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revisiting In Petit Island (Stinger)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beth: Well, if it ain't the blonde god himself!
See anything that tickles your fancy, sailor?
---- Shows the inventory.
Beth: Keep up the good work!
Kona: Hello, Captain. Congratulations on your victory.
Would you like to relax before returning to your vessel?
Yes
No
Kemo: Hey there, bwah. Good job with dat Treebaron!
You're gonna make a good captain yet!
Massage: Sorry, closed for vacation.
The Petit Lodge
---------------
Riley: Ready to set sail, Captain?
Yes
No
#Select No.
Riley: Let me know when you are.
##Select Yes.
Riley: Very good, sir.
We'll be standing by!
---- Screen goes blank and switches to the ship. It is next to Petit
Island.
===============================================================================
27. DANTYR BY SHIP 0270
===============================================================================
There is a big purple sea snake in the first map area south of Petit Island.
o-----------------------------o
| Canopy Snake. |
| Can grow to reach |
| 2 stone throws in length. |
| Often hinders passage of |
| vessels through the canopy. |
| Exercise extreme caution! |
o-----------------------------o
The map to the south of this one has a life ring, with looks like a duck,
outside Chiore.
o----------------------------o
| Deep Forest Sea life ring. |
| If found grab a hold and |
| pull to rescue the tree- |
| farer who has dropped |
| through the canopy |
o----------------------------o
To the north west of Chiore is a blue and pink three headed monster.
o----------------------------o
| WARNING!!! |
| Quarantined area. |
| Deadly creature infects |
| travellers, consuming |
| their inner organs before |
| exiting via the stomach. |
o----------------------------o
Up through the arrow to the northwest map and between Verne and Voltaire
Islands is a pale brown serpent.
o-----------------------------o
| Embodiment of a hangover. |
| Ancient treefarer's symbol. |
o-----------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Treeside 0271
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
The Dock
--------
Setting: The ship has docked and Stinger is on a wooden dock with two
companions.
Stinger: Okay, boys... Let's shut this place down!
Riley: Aye, Captain!
---- Riley and two sailors group around Stinger.
Stinger; I'm going to need a diversion.
Riley: We'll raid the armoury... That oughtta rattle their cage!
Stinger: Sounds good. I'm off to the jailhouse...
Riley: Good luck, captain.
Stinger: You too!
---- They all leave the dock and Stinger is shown alone in front of a row
of buildings at dusk.
---- Return to the Docks and check out the sign at the far end.
o-------------------------------o
| Welcome to Treeside! |
| --Dock Rules-- |
| No horseplay, no splashing, |
| no spitting on the dock, |
| no running, no duelling, no |
| unauthorised parties, no open |
| containers, no littering, no |
| loitering, no questions, no |
| time for a summer friend. |
o-------------------------------o
---- Go down the jetty and speak to the pirate.
Pirate: Attention on deck!
Stinger: As you were.
Pirate: Are we leaving without your friends, sir?
Stinger: Er...no. No, we're not. I'm...ah...just checkin' in.
Pirate: All's secure here, sir. Don't worry about us. Go get your friends!
Stinger: !!!
Pirate: Er...just a suggestion, sir.
Stinger: That's fine. It's a good one. Carry on!
Pirate: Aye, aye SIR!
---- Speak to him again.
Pirate: All's clear, sir.
Shouldn't ye be breakin' your friends outta jail...sir?
---------
The Town
--------
The First doorway
-----------------
o----------------------o
| The inn is closed... |
o----------------------o
The Second doorway
------------------
o----------------------o
| The pub is closed... |
o----------------------o
The Third Doorway
-----------------
o----------------------o
| Brianna's Store is |
| closed for business. |
o----------------------o
------------
To the Manor
------------
Setting: There is a large manor up double steps. Between the steps is a
statue.
---- Try to go up the steps.
Stinger: Varley's manor...
No doubt Mannheim's up there...waiting for me.
As much as I want him dead...
I gotta make sure that Windleaf is alive...
--------------------
The Back End of Town
--------------------
Setting: There is one open doorway and then a grey forbidding building that is
obviously the prison.
o-----------------------o
| The shop is closed... |
o-----------------------o
-----------
The Armoury
-----------
Setting: Between the purple closed door and the prison this hidden door leads
to the forge and two pirates, Cherie and another, unnamed one.
Cherie: All's secure here, Captain!
Stinger: Good work.
Cherie: Caught 'em napping. They never knew what hit 'em!
Stinger: Excellent... Quite a stash they had here, huh?
Cherie: Aye...
Stinger: Well...uh... Hold the fort, okay? I gotta spring my friends from
jail!
Cherie: Aye, aye, sir!
---- Speak to her again.
Cherie: All's clear, sir.
Shouldn't ye be breakin' your friends outta jail...sir?
---- Check the cannon to the right.
o--------------------------o
| Slightly used cannon and |
| assorted shot. Cheap! |
o--------------------------o
---- Check the pictures.
o---------------------------------o
| 'Pirate Dream Suite.' |
| An exhibition of fine paintings |
| by the retired murderer and |
| plunderer, One-Eyed Jack. |
o---------------------------------o
---------------------
Treeside Penitentiary
---------------------
Setting: Inside the prison Harv-5 and Windleaf are visible through the bars of
the cell. Two sailor guards are talking.
Sailor: You hear somethin'?
Sailor: Yeah...had beans for lunch. Sorry bout that.
Sailor: No, no! Not that... Sounded like a fight!
Sailor: Uh...nope. Didn't hear anything like that.
---- Suddenly Stinger appears from the left.
Sailor: Holy...! It's that kid with the funny hair!
Windleaf: Stinger!
Stinger: Be with ya in a minute, Windleaf...
Gotta deal with these two dogsons first!
Sailor: Get 'im!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Hold on, guys. One unlocked cell comin' up1
---- Stinger picks a Level 1 lock.
Windleaf: Where have you been?!
Stinger: Long story...no time for talk...we gotta stop Mannheim.
Harv-5: Mannheim...? He is still here?
Stinger: So the tale goes... But knowing him, not for long!
Windleaf: Where is he?!
Stinger: Varley's mansion would be my guess...place crawling with guards!
Windleaf: Lead the way...
Stinger: Yeah...um...Windleaf?
Windleaf: Yes?
Stinger: Glad you're still alive.
Windleaf: ... Same here...
Stinger: And...uh...that goes for you too, Harv-5.
Harv-5: The feeling is mutual. You are my friend.
Windleaf: Awwww! That was so nice, Harv-5!
Stinger: I'll hug him later... Let's go!
---- They join up as a party again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Treeside with Windleaf and Harv-5
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------
The Armoury
-----------
Cherie: Attention on deck!
Stinger: Uh...as you were.
Cherie: Armoury secure, SIR!
Stinger: Very good...uh... Carry on.
Cherie: Aye, aye SIR!
Windleaf: Sir...? Why is he calling you sir?
Stinger: Cause I'm the captain of a ship now!
Windleaf: You're kidding.
Stinger: I'm dead serious... I'll explain later...
Windleaf: This ought to be good.
Stinger: Hey...uh... We gotta go. Keep this place secure, okay?
Cherie: Aye, aye SIR!
Stinger: Let's go.
Windleaf: Captain Stinger... Oh, my...
Stinger: Today, Windleaf! C'mon!
---- The party regroups. Speak to Cherie again.
Cherie: All's fine here. Have ye found the rascal Mannheim yet?
Stinger: Er...no.
Cherie: With all due respect... Get moving!
---------
The Docks
---------
Pirate: Attention on deck!
Stinger: As you were.
Pirate: I see you found your friends. Welcome aboard.
Windleaf: Thank you... Wow...
Stinger: She's nice, huh?
Windleaf: Yes...beautiful...
Pirate: What are your orders, sir?
Stinger: Keep an eye out for Lord Mannheim...
If you see him...blast him.
Pirate: he'll not get by us, sir!
Stinger: Excellent. We're gonna go look for him. Carry on.
Pirate: Aye, aye sir!
---- Speak to him again.
Pirate: All's fine here. No sign of Lord Mannheim.
Stinger: He's tricky... Stay sharp!
Pirate: Aye...that we will!
------------
To the Manor
------------
Setting: They start to go up the steps to the Manor, and stop to talk.
Stinger: There it is...Varley's mansion.
Windelaf: He sure thought highly of himself, didn't he?
Stinger: That's for sure.
Varley was Mannheim's toady. If he's here...he'll be up there...
Harv-5: A sound hypothesis. Let us investigate it.
---- The screen goes black and they are now in front of the manor
entrance. There are two sailors guarding it.
Stinger: Okay, losers... There's two ways this can go.
Sailor: W-which are...?
Windleaf: You can flee...
Sailor: Or....
Stinger: You can get your butt kicked up between your shoulder blades.
---- One sailor turns as if to speak to the other.
Stinger: Well, guys?
---- The other one runs off shouting...
Sailor: Yiiiiiiiiiii!!
---- The second one runs off shouting...
Sailor: Whaaaaaaaaa!
Harv-5: There's something we don't see every day.
Windleaf: Wish it happened more often...
Stinger: Come on, guys. Mannheim's GOTTA be in here! Why else would there
be guards?
---------
The Foyer
---------
Setting: A large room with an orange rug and green lighting. There are three
sailor guards.
Sailor: Hold it right there, pirates!
Stinger: There's two ways this can go, losers.
Sailor: Right. you can die quiet, or you can die screaming.
Windleaf: So much for sensible enemies...
---- Battle.
Stinger: C'mon! Varley's office is down the hall!
Windleaf: I'm anxious to get even with Mannheim for putting is in that cell.
Stinger: Not as anxious as me...
---- They join up again.
------------
Manor Office
------------
Setting: This is the room where Varley and Mannheim discussed what to do about
Stinger. There is a desk and chair and carious items of nautical interest.
Stinger: Curse Mannheim!
He got away again! When is this gonna end?
Windelaf: Sooner than later...that's my guess...
Stinger: Yeah, I know...
Windleaf: thanks for coming back.
Stinger: What, are you joking? Did you even have a doubt?
Look, as much as I want to put Mannheim down....
...I still know what's important.
We've made it this far, and I'm not going to turn my back on my
friends!
Windleaf: We never doubted you'd be back. When we're out of here, you have to
tell us what happened!
Stinger: No sweat...but you probably won't believe me.
Harv-5: Civil unrest is imminent in Treeside, now that the Baron is dead.
We must leave immediately. There will be chaos. There will be...
Stinger: Yeah, yeah...we know the rest.
Windleaf: As usual, Harv-5 is right...
Stinger: I suppose so.
Harv-5: Come. We must egress.
---- The group join together again. Check the bookcase.
o------------------------------o
| Assorted 'treefaring' texts, |
| charts and logs. |
o------------------------------o
-------------
Armoury Again
-------------
Setting: There is no one here.
Stinger: Deserted... Let's get out before that changes!
---------
The Docks
---------
Stinger: Can't believe he got away AGAIN...
Windleaf: We'll get him... Don't worry.
Harv-5: Ones such as he are doomed to fail. One day. he'll make a mistake.
Stinger: And we'll be there. I can't wait...
Pirate: Shall we set sail, sir?
Yes
No
#Select No
Pirate: Very well, sir.
##Select Yes.
Pirate: Aye, aye sir!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Verne Island
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The island has one large metal looking building and some metal "chambers" to
the left. Check these.
o-------------------------------o
| Stasis chambers with built-in |
| Autocatalytic functions. |
o-------------------------------o
------
Inside
------
Setting: A large room with many gadgets.
Nikola: Greetings! What an eclectic and diverse group you are.
Have you come to pay homage to the great Verne?
Stinger: I'm not gonna pay anything to anyone!
Windleaf: Stinger!
I'm sorry, sir. We don't know who Verne is.
Perhaps you could enlighten us?
Nikola: Oh...how unusual... Well of course, miss!
Verne was THE greatest Gadgeteer to ever live!
He created countless devices! He worked on all the greatest
Gadgeteer projects, he...
Stinger: Oh, THAT Verne!
Sure, I've heard of him. Didn't Harv-5 tell us about him?
Windleaf: Neat! Can't we take a look at some of these things?
Nikola: Young lady, PLEASE, this is a shrine, not a showroom!
Stigner: Wow! This is too fine! I gotta check out some of your wares!
Nikola: Do NOT touch anything without first asking.
AARGH!
You are driving me crazy! Out! Out with you at once!
Go downstairs and other Albert! He loves visitors.
Windleaf: Sorry. Who's Albert?
Stinger: Or WHAT is Albert?
Nikola: You'll see... Now scoot ! Shoo! Begone!
Stinger: He's an odd sort. Shall we?
---- They join up and speak to him again.
Nikola: Is it true? Eyre is once again mobile?
Stinger: That's right, old-timer.
Nikola: Verne be praised!
It's about time they for off their duffs!
----- Check the metal thing to the left of Nikola.
o------------------------o
| Automated pool sweeper |
| and yard raker. |
o------------------------o
---- Check the table behind Nikola.
o-------------------------------------o
| Table features crucible tongs, |
| an adiabatic power supply, calcined |
| plaster molds and candy wrappers. |
o-------------------------------------o
-------------
Down the lift
-------------
Setting: A room with many machine type objects and another Gadgeteer.
Albert: M=EC squared...? No, that not it!
Stinger: Pardon?
Albert: C=ME squared? Blast! That's not it!
Stinger: Koo-koo...
Albert: It's a formula I'm working on.
Three letters, an equal sign and a tiny little super script '2' will
allow me to harness the power of the universe!
Trouble is...I can't remember the proper order!
By the way...What do you think you're doing here?
Did Nikola send you?
Stinger: Yes, he did. He said you were a loser... In a manner of speaking...
Albert: That Nikola, he's always been jealous of me!
I was always more popular with the ladies than he.
I'm MUCH smarter, and better-looking to boot!
Windleaf: Well, you ARE pretty good-looking...
Stinger: !!!
Albert: Heh, heh...still got it!
Windealf: I like you. You seem like a sweet old man.
Albert: Well, thank you, lassie! If I were 50 years younger, you and I
coulda painted the town red...what there is of it, that is...
Windleaf: Why thank you, Albert!
Stinger: Oh, for the love of Keerg!
Albert: What's wrong, pup, can't run with the big dogs? Heh, heh...
Stinger: Arf...
---- They join up again. Speak to him once more.
Albert: Hey, sweet thing! You wanna go dancin' with me?
Windleaf: Another time, perhaps?
Albert: Suit yourself.
You know where to find me!
---- Check a large machine on the left wall.
Stinger: Wow...a Gadgio Shack 8000!
I remember when these things used to be REALLY big.
Now look how small they are!
This one only takes up half a wall...
---- Check the metal barrel/robot.
Stinger: Looks like a Harv-5 prototype...
I wonder what happens if I press this button...
o------------------------------------o
| Warning! Warning! Meteor shower! |
o------------------------------------o
Stinger: Huh?
o------------------o
| Danger! Danger! |
o------------------o
o-----------------o
| I'll be back... |
o-----------------o
Stinger: W...where are you going?
o------------------------o
| Stay out of...trouble. |
o------------------------o
Stinger: !!! Definitely time to go...
---- Check a glass container of green goo, and a table music machine.
o-----------------------------o
| Left-over goo from a long- |
| forgotten movie starring |
| more of the same... |
o-----------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| A Yanafa (R) multi-voice, |
| polyphonic synth. |
o---------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Gadget Madness 0273
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----- Check out the purple thing in the bottom corner.
Stinger: This looks interesting. What is it?
o-------------------------o
| I am a GAS, a Gadgeteer |
| Amusement System. |
o-------------------------o
Stinger: Whoa! It talks!
o--------------------------------o
| Would you like to play a game? |
o--------------------------------o
Yes
No
#Select No.
o---------------o
| You are lame. |
o---------------o
o--------------------------o
| You wouldn't know fun if |
| it bit you on the rump. |
o--------------------------o
o------------------o
| Have a nice day! |
o------------------o
##Select Yes.
o------------o
| Excellent. |
o------------o
o---------------------o
| How about "Global |
| Thermonuclear War?" |
o---------------------o
Stinger: That doesn't sound very fun.
Can we play something else?
o------------o
| Certainly. |
o------------o
o-------------------------o
| How about a nice |
| game of Gadget Madness? |
o-------------------------o
Stinger: That sounds promising!
o--------------------------------o
| Are you sure you want to play? |
o--------------------------------o
Yes
No
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. Gadget Madness Part Three 0274
(Pandora's Cauldron)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------
Pandora's Cauldron
------------------
After completing the third and final part of the Gadget Madness game there is
the option to use the item that is acquired: the Pandora's Cauldron.
This is a description of some of what happens and what is said. There is no
text on screen and some of the words are indistinct.
The screen shakes and goes small and odd and the large grey metal cauldron is
shown with green liquid inside and bats around it. It is suspended in space,
and then it drops on the ground and a bat goes inside it .
It turns red and explodes and then a voice over begins as scenes of THE END
are shown. The voice is a male American voice of doom.
" Time is running out for planet earth."
" You do you know that bad girls go to hell."
" The life of dreams begin to disappear"
" Time is running out..for the planet earth."
After many images and more words of doom, planet earth is shown with a line of
light like a wire going from it and then it explodes and the sky is coloured
black/grey.
GAME OVER appears on a black screen.
Then the words: "insert coin" flash on the screen.
Press X and there is nothing!
Just the small sound of a light being switched off, and a black screen.
And that is IT...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
v. Revisits 0275
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
These revisits are with the whole party, or can be done later after Metaboline.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return Visit to Petit Island
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------
Petit Island
------------
Beth: Well, well, well. Look who's back in town...Captain Stinger!
Stinger: Er...hello...
Beth: Hey, honey... Quite a catch you have there! He's some kinda man!
Windleaf: He's some kinda...something, I suppose!
Beth: You bet! Everyone's talking about how he rubbed out Varley!
Windleaf: He is notorious, isn't he?
Beth: Oh, I'll say...Spittin' image of his papa, too.
Er...anyway...feel free to check out the products...
---- Shows inventory.
Beth: Take care, now...Captain.
---------
Petit Inn
---------
Kona: Hello, Captain. It's good to see you.
Stinger: News travels fast, doesn't it?
Kona: Our is a small island, sir.
Windleaf: Small but friendly.
Kona: Yes, ma'am.
Windleaf: Um...you're Fanoman, aren't you?
Kona: Yes, ma'am. I as wondering the same about you...
Windleaf: I'd heard that some of our people had made it to this land...
Kona: Yes. There was a storm...some of my ancestors were separated from
the main fleet.
They made it to this place...a place of emerald wonders.
Widnaelf: It's certainly very pretty.
Kona: What became of the rest of our people?
Windleaf: You...you don't know?
Kona: Only rumours...
Windleaf: They made it to the lands of Khelest, and settled in a place they
called Enclaan.
Kona: It must be very pretty!
Windleaf: Um...yes...well, it was...before Hokum attacked.
Kona: Goodness!
Windealf: Little remains...so, you can see why I'm happy to see another
Fanoman...
Kona: You'll always be welcome here, ma'am...
Windleaf: Please...call me Windleaf.
Kona: Travel safely Windleaf.
Stinger: Wow...looks like I'm not the only one to find a piece of my past
here!
Windleaf: Strange, isn't it?
Kona: Petit is a magical place, my friends.
Where are my manners? You must be tired. Would you like to rest?
Yes
No.
#Select No.
Kona: There's always a place for you here.
---- Speak to her again.
Kona: Hello there. It's nice to see you.
Would you like to rest?
-------------
Kemo's Bistro
-------------
Kemo: How do, bwah! I see you brought a find wahini with you!
Windleaf: Er...hello...
Stinger: Yeah...
Kemo: Who's ready for some ribs?
Windleaf: Oooooooh! Is that Camawii sauce I smell!
Kemo: Oh, yes yes, miss! Best Camawii sauce in the land!
Windleaf: Hmm...I'll be the judge of that. I make a pretty mean Camawii sauce
myself!
Kemo: Oh, reaaaaaaally? Well, well, miss! Step up and taste! You see
who's best!
Stinger: This ought to be interesting.
Windealf: Hmm...(smack smack)
Stinger: Well...?
Kemo: Yes, yes?
Windleaf: It's pretty good...could use some more rooda chillies, though.
Roma: Bah! Too many rooda chillies, the sauce she melt the pot, miss!
You crazy girl!
Windleaf: Get a stronger pot, old timer.
Excuse me.
Stinger: Man, I guess! You belch louder than my uncle Mikhail!
Windleaf: Hee hee!
---- The party joins together again. Speak to Kemo again.
Kemo: Hey there! Good to see you again! Ribs are still in the smoker.
Come back later...if you dare! Ho ho ho!
-------------
Massage Place
-------------
Kimber: Hello there.
Stinger: Greetings.
Windleaf: Wow! This reminds me so much of the Spas back home!
Kimber: Good memories, I hope!
Windleaf: Oh, yes! Nothing like a good massage!
Stinger: ...
Kimber: Would you like one now?
Yes
No
#Select Yes.
---- The screen goes black as the messages are shown.
Kimber: Everyone get comfortable.
Windleaf: Won't you need some help?
Kimber: Oh, no. I'm THAT good.
Stinger: !!!
Kimber: Here we go...
o-----------------o
| Party refreshed |
| from massage! |
o-----------------o
Windleaf: Ahhh...that was nice.
Stinger: Except for the cracking bones. Ooooh...
Kimber: You okay?
Stinger: Sure...just a funny sound, you know?
Windleaf: Oh, don't be such a baby.
Stinger: ...
Kimber: Come back soon!
---- Party regroups. Speak to her again.
Kimber: Hello again. Ready for a massage?
#Select Yes.
Kimber Everyone relax.
This won't hurt a bit...
Feeling better?
Stinger: Much! Thank you!
Kimber: Don't mention it.
===============================================================================
28. METABOLAS 0280
===============================================================================
---------
The Beach
---------
Setting: They arrive at Metabolas Island and there are two huge statues.
Stinger: Check out those statues!
Windleaf: They're magnificent... So old...
Harv-5: King Metabolas IV and his Queen...
Stinger: Huh?
Harv-5: Founders of the first Metabolinean dynasty. Perhaps the greatest
rulers of all time...
Windleaf: Did...did you know them?
Harv-5: I knew of them. They were before my time.
Stinger: So is everything else here, Harv-5!
Harv-5: Correct. It still does not explain my...attachment to them. My
feelings...of kinship...
Stinger: Whoa. Kinship?! You're a robot...
How can you be related to long-dead HUMAN kings?
Harv-5: Strange, isn't it?
As of late, my mind has been filled with thoughts of this place.
The closer we got, the clearer the thoughts became.
I would get to these ruins. Soon.
I feel a need... to understand.
Windleaf: Well... That's what we're here for.
Stinger: Yeah... Let's go... This is one mystery I want to see solved!
---- They join as a group again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Up the Mountain 0281
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: They arrive at the top of the mountain and stop to llok at the lava
stretching ahead.
Windleaf: In the name of the Magi!
Stinger: This definitely wasn't in the plan... That's molten lava down there!
Windleaf: There's a path leading to the ruins, though... Almost as if
someone...wants us to go there.
Stinger: Well, find. Let's go! Come on, Harv-5!
---- There is a long pause and no-one moves or speaks.
Stinger: Hey! Harv-5! Bolthead! Come on!
Harv-5: ...
Windleaf: Harv-5...?
Harv-5: What villainy is this? Who dares soil the sacred land of
Metbolas?!
Stinger: Uh, oh...
Harv-5: Let it be known that such treacherous deeds will not go unpunished!
The ground will be stained with the dark blood of the infidel!
This I swear!
---- Another long pause.
Stinger: Uh...Windleaf... I think Harv-5's checked out of the Inn here...
Windleaf: Harv-5...? Are you okay? Harv-5?
Harv-5: Be at ease. All will be well soon, friends.
Let us purge yon bolthole of evil, that we may rest our souls and
sing songs as valour!
Stinger: Oh, yeah. He's nuttier than a Feggle tree.
Windleaf: This must have something to do with his visions.
Stinger: Yeah, or he's got the robot version of shadowmadness!
Windleaf: I...I don't think so, Stinger. This is different...
Stinger: Well, keep an eye on him. He might decide we're 'infidels' and lop
our heads off!
Harv-5: Come, good companions! The battle of righteousness awaits!
Stinger: Yeah, yeah...
Windleaf: Oh, my...
---- They regroup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. The Lava Pathways 0282
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: At the far end of the pathways the group stops at the entrance to a
cave in a grey mass of rock. At least, that is what it appears to be, though
the shape is strange. Lava is bubbling on either side.
Stinger: I don't like this. Where are all the ruins we're supposed to be
searching?
Windleaf: This...thing is probably right on top of them.
Harv-5: This is a abomination. It must be eliminated. We have much work
to do.
Stinger: Speak for yourself. Me, I say we get out of here.
Windleaf: That's a bit out of character, isn't it, Stinger?
Stinger: Yeah...well... Sometimes ya gotta be flexible...
Especially when you're being baited by someone...or something.
This is an obvious trap!
Harv-5: We have seen worse. We must press on.
Stinger: Keerg's breath, harv-5! If you're so eager to die, then go on
ahead!
Windleaf: Look...Stinger... I...have the same sense of foreboding that you
do....
But I also know we have to do this...and so do you...
Stinger: ...
Right.
One last time.
But when we're done here, the Magi can find a new servant. I've
had it...
Windleaf: Let's...cross that bridge when we get to it. Okay?
Stinger: We'll see...anyway, let's get this over with.
---- They regroup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. The Caves 0283
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: After traversing the spiral stairways they enter a red cavern. This
is the Fire Stalker's Lair. He is a large bird like monster standing on tow
legs and with a tail.
Harv-5: Have a care, brave allies!
The Stalker is dangerous when cornered. Gird your loins for battle
most fierce!
Windleaf: Um...whatever you say...
Harv-5: 'Tis queer that its dark master is not afoot as well! Methinks a
beast such as this is too dim-witted to work alone.
Stinger: Its master must've flown the coop and left Dummy here to harass us.
---- The Fire Stalker turns around to face them.
Fire
Stalker: Dummy...master?! Of all the unmitigated gall! I must speak to my
underlings about this.
I gave strict instructions nor to allow riff-raff into the lair.
Confound those servants!
Stinger: Whoa! It talks!
Fire
Stalker: Of course I speak, you unwashed poltroon!
Though, I confess I've an extreme distaste for your crude language.
Stinger: Yeah? Well I have a distaste for your smell, let alone your looks!
Fire
Stalker: Always the same... Every crusade, there's some foul-mouthed wretch
with delusions of grandeur.
Stinger: Breath like yours, and you call ME foul-mouthed? Get a clue!
Fire
Stalker: Sigh. I had hoped to avoid violence today, but your behaviour
demands a good thrashing.
Let's be done with this, shall we? En garde!
Windleaf: If you're intelligent, then you realise that there are other
options besides combat.
Fire
Stalker: Now THIS is refreshing! One of you vile primates actually wants to
be rational!
Very well, I'll play this once. Vacate the premises immediately and
I shall not pursue.
Windleaf: Not exactly the option I wished to discuss.
Fire
Stalker: You certainly don't mean to propose that I leave...do you?
Windleaf: I do. By now, you must have heard of us. Of our power.
Fire
Stalker: Oh, yes. You've fought well. But all quests must end...
Windleaf: We've killed many of your allies...your kind.
Fire
Stalker: Mmmm...yes. You've thinned our herd of the rank amateurs and
weaklings.
Rather gracious of you, now that I ponder it.
Windleaf: We will kill you too if you stand against us.
Fire
Stalker: Phwaugh?!? Fwa hwa hwaah!
Oh, I like you, Windleaf! The rumours are true! You ARE fearless!
No, I'm afraid I must defend my post.
Honour and duty and all that. You understand, yes?
Harv-5: All too well, vile creature! Despite your noble words, you are a
sworn enemy.
To battle! To the death!
Stinger: Now you're talking!
Windleaf: You had your chance...
Fire
Stalker: And you, yours. Let us end this!
---- Battle.
Stinger: That's that! This is gettin' way too easy!
Windleaf: Enough mindless boasting. We need to go now...
Stinger: Why? We haven't searched the ruins yet!
Windleaf: No time... We have to go!
Stinger: What's the big deal?!
Windleaf: The Stalker was maintaining this place...keeping it intact with its
will and powers.
Harv-5: And now that it's dead...
Stinger: Oh, crap. This whole place is gonna blow!
Windleaf: Right! RUN!!!
---- They escape the caves to the entrance.
Stinger: Made it!
---- He turns to face the entrance as he realises the others are not with
him.
Stinger: Harv-5! Windleaf! Come on! Hurry up!!!
---- Windleaf dashes out of the cave.
Stinger: Where's Harv-5?!
Windleaf: He was...right...behind me...
Stinger: Harv-5! Hurry up!
---- The shaking and sound of explosions continues and then...
Windleaf: Oh...oh, NO...!
Stinger: We gotta go! This place is gonna blow!
Windleaf: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Harv-5!!!
---- They both run back inside the cave. The screen goes black.
Stinger: LOOK OUT!!!
Windleaf: AAAIIIIEEE!!!
---- There is the scene of a huge explosion viewed from the place where
they first saw the lava pathways. A castle surrounded with green
appears!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. Metaboline Castle 0284
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------
The Courtyard Garden
--------------------
Setting: A grassy area with a path going down. There are walls circling the
place. Stinger and Windleaf are on lying on the grass. There are some parts
of...Harv-5, and a pink sparkling item.
Stinger: Keerg's Passion... Wh...what... Where...
Windleaf: Oooooh... Lungs...on fire... (Hack...cough)
Stinger: (cough) Aacch...feel like I ate a lump of coal...
Windleaf: At...least...(cough...hack) we're all alive...
Stinger: Wait a second... Are you sure...?
This...isn't the ruins, Windleaf...
I...I don't know where we are...
Maybe we finally bought the farm...
Windleaf: Don't be...silly... We're still alive...
Otherwise...we wouldn't be in this much pain... (Cough)
Stinger: ...I suppose...
---- He pauses.
Stinger: Hey...wait a minute... Where's Harv-5?
Windleaf: Harv-5? Harv-5!
---- They both move to look for Harv-5, and see what remains...
Windleaf: Harv-5!!!
---- She runs over to the things that are lying on the ground.
Stinger: Oh...oh, no... He was right on my heels...!
---- He joins Windleaf to look at the things on the grass.
Windleaf: He's dead...I can feel it...(sniff)
Stinger: Let's not jump to conclusions.
He's probably around here somewhere... The question is where...
Windleaf: I don't think so, Stinger.
He's gone... These parts are...all that's left.
Stinger: Well...we can rebuild him... Clemett can do it! Right?
Windleaf: I...I don't know...I mean...there's not much left of him...
I can't believe it... After all this... After all we've gone
through.
Stinger: I thought something...or someone was watching over all of us...
protecting us...
---- Windleaf notices the pink sparkle.
Windleaf: W...what's this...?
---- She picks it up.
o-------------------------o
| Found Mysterious Stone! |
o-------------------------o
Stinger: Is it a jewel?
Windleaf: I don't think so...it feels...like something else.
Stinger: Spit it out! Now is not the time to be mysterious!
Windleaf: Stinger...this stone... It...I think...
I think it contains a soul...the soul of Harv-5...
Stinger: Soul...? But he was a robot!
Windleaf: Come on Stinger! He was more than that and you know it!
Even the Gadgeteers thought there was something odd about him...
This stone...somehow...it has captured the essence of Harv-5.
We owe it to him to try and bring him back.
Stinger: Yeah... The Gadgeteers will know a way... They, or the Magi...
Windleaf: Or both.
---- Stinger picks up Harv-5's hat from the bits of feet and whatever...
o---------------------o
| Found Harv-5's Hat! |
o---------------------o
Stinger: Rest easy, buddy. We'll get you back in the saddle soon!
---- They join together and a guard emerges from the building.
Guard: You there! Halt!
Stinger: Uh, oh... Here comes trouble.
---- Two more individuals approach. A peasant and a lady, both with
lilac coloured faces.
Windleaf: We mean you no harm.
Guard: Silence!
You are no doubt in league with the Darg!
Peasant: Kill 'em where they stand!
Courtier: Er...let' not be hasty, here, Guard...
Guard: Silence!
The King shall judge them!
Stinger: King...? What king?
Courtier: Why, good king Metabolas XIV of course.
Who should be arriving momentarily...!
Windleaf: Um...I don't think so.
The last Mage King died centuries ago.
Guard: Halt that tongue! We'll have none of your Darg-o-babble, Darglings!
Stinger: Listen, you...
You call me a Dargling once more, and you'll do it through broken
teeth!
Peasant: Fight, fight!
Courtier: Settle down, peasant...or I'll have you flogged!
Peasant: Settling down, milady.
Guard: You two...come with me! Now!
Stinger: I'm doin' no such thing.
Windleaf: Stinger...I think we should go along with him.
Stinger: What for...?
Windleaf: Because I think we've found Castle Metaboline...
Stinger: Like, THE Castle Metaboline?!
The castle whose ancient ruins we were just searching?
Courtier: You young woman is correct, Sir...uh, Knight.
Our guards are true of heart and light of patience. I suggest you
go with him.
Stinger: All right...I'll go. But this is getting sillier by the minute.
Guard: Save it for Her Majesty, the Queen loudmouth!
Move it!
---- They leave the garden area.
-------------------
The Queen's Chamber
-------------------
Setting: Stinger and Windleaf are next seen in a red room with two thrones and
a large wall hanging. There are various people and the guard.
Guard: Your Majesty! These prisoners were caught in the courtyard.
Jester: Prisoners? More like circus clowns in those outfits!
Castellan: Good work, soldier.
Did they attack> Cause any damage?
Guard; No, milord. The man was...belligerent, but otherwise...they came
peacefully.
Queen
Estrella: Ahem.
I am Estrella, Queen of Metaboline. You will explain yourselves,
strangers.
Stinger: Um...Well, your Highness...it's like this.
You...these people, this place...have been missing for over four
hundred years.
Jester: And they think MY jokes are bad!
Windleaf: We were exploring the ruins of what we thought was this
castle...when...
Stinger: The island blew up...I thought we were goners for sure, but...here
we are.
Castellan: This is a bit hard to believe, stranger.
Our last memory was of our good King, racing out to do battle with
the Darg.
Stinger: You've got some catching up to do, pal...
Castellan: Speak when you are spoken to, prisoner!
Queen E.: Enough...Let there be silence.
Though I am strong in augury, I can also peer into the past...
I shall find the information we seek...
Stinger: Keerg's teeth...
Windleaf: She's a Mage Queen...
Queen E.: I'm travelling back... Back though the aether of time...
I see a great struggle... My husband...
There is a maelstrom... In the sky... The Darg...pulled into it...
being torn apart as it goes...
It lashes out...
One final, brutal act... It is gone... My husband...falls.
Castellan: No...it cannot be...
Queen E.: He...is dying... Though...pleased that we are away...
He despairs... For he is far from the soil of his home...
Stinger: This...is unreal...
Queen E.: He realises his time is short... And that we must return...no matter
what.
Into a jewel he places a spell... A spell of returning...
Windleaf: A jewel...
Queen E.: He enchants it so...it will restore us when placed on this native
soil...here...
With his final energy, he casts this spell...and falls.
Castellan: This is a dark day...
Queen E.: The stone is lost for years. In time...it falls into the hands of
a tinkerer...an artisan.
The artisan is called...Gadgeteer.
Stinger: No way...
Windleaf: Oh, my...
Queen E.: This man...uses the stone's energies...to give life to a...wooden
man.
Windleaf: Harv-5! She's talking about Harv-5!
---- The Castellan walks across the room to speak directly to the Queen.
Castellan: Your Majesty!
Queen E.: I...am well...
The last I saw...was your friend's fall into the inferno...
Windleaf: Oh...oh, Harv-5!
---- Stinger turns to speak to Windleaf.
Stinger: That stone you found... That's the one in the vision...
The one that brought this place back.
Windleaf: That stone gave Harv-5 life...made him human...
Queen E.: In dying, he saved the lives of many Metabolians.
We owe him...and you...a great debt!
Windleaf: But it won't bring him back! It won't change that he's dead!
Queen E.: No. Nor will it bring back my husband...
His life-force, mingled with mystic power, charged that jewel...
made it what it was.
Stinger: Whoa...hey! Windleaf...remember how funny Harv-5 was acting near
the end?
Windleaf: Y-yes...what of it?
Stinger: I...I think that wasn't Harv-5 talking then...
I think it was the king.
Windleaf: You mean...
Queen E.: Yes...the soul of your friend and of my husband...were one and the
same.
Stinger: Oh, man...
Windleaf: It would explain a lot...his mood swings...visions of this place...
Stinger: Harv-5 was a reincarnated Mage-King?!
Queen E.: And now he is gone. I have lost him again...
Stinger: You are us both, lady...
Queen E.: Castellan. Please show our guests to suitable quarters.
Castellan: It will be done, majesty. Come with me...er...
---- He turns to speak to Stinger and Windleaf.
Castellan: Your names, please?
Stinger: You can call me Stinger.
Windleaf: I am Windleaf.
Castellan: A pleasure. Please forgive the misunderstanding.
Stinger: No worries... it's been a real weird day for all of us...
Castellan: Er...as you say... Please follow me.
---- They leave the chamber.
--------------
Guest Chambers
--------------
Setting: The two are with the Castellan in a large bedroom with three grand
beds and rugs and pictures. All the beds have rich red covers.
Castellan: Here you are. Make yourselves comfortable.
Stinger: Thanks...
Castellan: It's the least we can do.
---- He leaves.
Windleaf: Oh, Stinger...I feel so useless...
Stinger: We'll think of something...
Windleaf: What are we going to do? Harv-5 is dead, and we're just sitting
here...
Stinger: I dunno... We need to talk to that Queen again...
Maybe ...well, maybe she has the artefact...
Windleaf: The Blood of a Mage King? How? She was separated from her husband
when he died!
Stinger: I don't know, okay? Maybe...he kept some around for...good luck or
something!
Cut me some slack! I'm not sure what we're gonna do, okay?! Just
stop wigging out!
Windleaf: I'm not "wigging out..." I'm upset . I'm angry.
If that disturbs you, then...just ignore me!
Stinger: Look, why don't we start with a snooze. We're both dead tired...
Then we can take a look around.
Windleaf: Now you're making sense.
---- They sleep and then: Save/Continue/Quit
Stinger: Let's get to it!
---- They join together. Check the left picture.
o-------------------------o
| Picture of the Queen's |
| nephew's, father's son. |
o-------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Courtyard
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The grassy area where they first arrived.
Peasant: Hey, I got a wise an' kids! Leave me alone! I ain't done nothin'
to you!
Guard: You may have the Queen's approval, but I'm still watchin' you!
Courtier: Well, I'm glad every thing straightened out for you.
Public hangings are SO disgusting!
----------
The Market
----------
Setting: The north of the courtyard. There are some market carts.
Clayton: Greetings, strangers.
Afraid my selections' a little limited...but that's war!
Stinger:
---- Shows inventory.
Clayton: Thanks for droppin' by!
Kelly: Sold most of my goods to the army, strangers.
Ah, but I still have a few choice items!
---- Shows inventory.
Kelly: Bring your money back any time!
Pip: Step up, folks. Finest weapons in the realm! None sharper or
stronger!
Come see what makes Metaboline's army feared across the globe!
---- Shows inventory.
Pip: Spread the word! Pip makes the best weapons around.
------------
The Barracks
------------
Setting: The building behind the first set of the cart. There are three bunk
beds and a couple of guards.
Vernon: Head's up!
Pat: Those aren't Darglings. Relax.
Vernon: Just a little jumpy, that's all.
Stinger: These guys aren't much older than we are!
Windleaf: When has age had anything to do with this war?
Vernon: Right...what she said!
Stinger: You two guys ever seen any action?
Pat: Uh...in training...
Vernon: Killed me plenty of birds. Wild game, too!
Stinger: Yeah, well... The things out there aren't as easy to bag as a buck
or a pheasant.
Pat: It'll take more thna that to scare us, Khelestran.
Vernon: You're not dealing with Uhndrashi or Tulians here, ya know!
Pat: Metabolinians never quit! And we don't lose, either!
Stinger: Oh, brother... Have you got a lot to learn!
Pat: Hey, you... Keep it up and you and I are gonna tangle.
Vernon: Don't think I'll stand around and watch, either.
Stinger: Settle down, pal...
Wouldn't want that pretty armour of yours to get all dirty...
Windleaf: Hey...the war's raging out there, not in here!
Vernon: Yeah, she's right. Let's cool it!
Pat: You're lucky your girl stepped in, chum...
Stinger: Yeah, I suppose so. Otherwise I'd be fishin' my boot out of you...
Windleaf: Stinger! Stop egging him on!
Stinger: Right... See ya around...
---- They regroup. Speak to them again.
Pat: We didn't start the war, but we're gonna finish it!
Vernon: Khelestra may have numbers, but no one fights like a Metabolinian!
---- Check boxes at the end of the beds.
o-----------------------------o
| Foot locker contains: |
| Folded pressed socks, |
| Shirts and pants, pictures, |
| shoes, underwear, nose |
| rings and...a magazine... |
o-----------------------------o
o-----------------------------o
| Foot locker contains: |
| Sporting equipment, comb, |
| brush, medicines, childhood |
| mememtos and a tin of |
| soda crackers. |
o-----------------------------o
o----------------------o
| Footlocker is empty. |
o----------------------o
o-----------------------------------o
| Footlocker contains soap, |
| maps, paper and pens, comb |
| with hair stuck in it, toothbrush |
| and a few novels. |
o-----------------------------------o
-----------------
Blacksmith's Shop
-----------------
Setting: Down the green path to the right of the carts is the blacksmith.
There are some weapons on the wall.
Gramps: If you folks are lookin' for armour, you come to the right place.
Metaboline steel's the finest kind. Very little around that can
pierce it!
---- Shows inventory.
Gramps: Never mind the rest. Come here for the best!
---- Check the shield on the wall.
o-----------------------------------o
| Wax demo weapons. |
| 'We can make you some just |
| like these in less than a jiffy!' |
o-----------------------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inside the Castle
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------
The Ladies' Room
-----------------
Setting: A large room with many baskets and brightly coloured rugs. There are
two women here.
Robyn: Why, hello there.
Kristyne: Greetings.
Stinger: Hey there, ladies. Have you seen the Queen lately?
Robyn: Surely not, milord. Is there anything...I...can do for you?
Stinger: Well, now that you mention it...
---- Windleaf takes a step back and slaps him across the face.
Stinger: Ow!
Windleaf: If you see the Queen, please tell her that we are looking for her.
Robyn: Certainly, milady.
Windleaf: We'll be going now.
Stinger: Bye.
Kristyne: Do come again...both of you.
---- They exit the room. Go back in and speak to them both again.
Kristyne: You dress oddly...for nobility.
Robyn: It's so very nice to see you again!
-------------
Jester's Room
-------------
Setting: A room with a red carpet and many things on the walls: a shield,
bright coloured costumes and green and red shoes and various jester's things.
Jester: Well, well! It's the harbringers of joy and earthly delights!
Stinger: That supposed to be funny?
Jester: It is what it is, beefcake.
Windleaf: He said "beefcake!" Hee hee hee!
Jester: Observe! Someone's laughing!
Stinger: Don't flatter yourself. She'd laugh at a pile of rocks.
Jester: Where DID you two find your costumes, anyway?
I mean, I look like this because it's part of my job!
But you two...
Windleaf: You'll find that we're dressed in clothes that are quite
typical...for this era.
Jester: Oh, yeah? What do jesters wear nowadays?
Stinger: Suits, mostly. And ties.
Jester: I don't get it...but, oh well!
I've got 400 years of nonsense to catch up on.
---- Speak to him again.
Jester: I'm a buffoon, not a fighter!
----------------
Castellan's Room
----------------
Setting: This room is to the left of the Guest Quarters. There is a large bed
and cupboards and a high backed blue chair.
Castellan: Greetings. Sir and Lady.
How can I be of service?
Stinger: We need to speak to the Queen. It's important.
Castellan: That won't be possible. The Queen is in mourning.
Windleaf: You don't understand. We were sent here to find a missing artefact.
She may be the only one who can help us.
Castellan: That's all well and good, but until she is finished...
Stinger: ...{missed this...to add later}
Castellan: Mind your tone. Hero or not...
Windleaf: You mentioned you were fighting the Darg.
Castellan: Yes. What of it?
Windleaf: Your King died while defeating it.
But the Darg didn't die. It's here again...
Castellan: That's not possible...!
Windleaf: Wrong. And if our mission fails, nothing will be able to stop it.
Castellan: I...see.
Stinger; Think you can help us now?
Castellan: It will be...uncomfortable...but I will speak on your behalf.
Windleaf: Thank you.
---- They regroup. Speak to him again.
Castellan: The Queen is suffering...but she must help you if she can...
--------------
Griffon's Room
--------------
Setting: This is obviously the young Prince's room. There are lots of
pictures on the wall, childish ones, and a bed with a multicoloured cover and
a bright rug.
Prince
Griffon: Hello. Are you my new playmates?
Windleaf: Um...no. We're visitors.
Prince
Griffon: Hmm. A Khelestran and a Fanoman... You've come a long way!
Windleaf: Wow...our people haven't been called 'Fanomans' since the Great
Exodus...
Prince
Griffon: Exodus? Whatever do you mean?
Windleaf: Ah...well...it's a long story...
Prince
Griffon: You must tell me! I do love stories!
Windleaf: Well...a long time ago, the homeland of my people was...hit by a
great tidal wave.
Stinger: Really?
Windleaf: Ssh! But it wasn't an ordinary wave...the waters were poisoned.
Prince
Griffon: Go on!
Windleaf: Soon nothing would grow on the island...so the survivors made a
great many boats.
They took as many supplies as they could carry, and sailed across
the great sea.
Stinger: I never knew about this...
Windleaf: Many people died on the journey. But my people were determined to
live!
Prince
Griffon: What happened?!
Windleaf: They eventually found land... A great, vast place, filled with trees
and animals.
They chose this place to settle down and build a new life for
themselves.
They named their new home Enclaan, which means "great bounty."
Stinger: Wow.
Windleaf: And so, the people of Fanoma became the people of Enclaan.
Prince
Griffon: What a fanciful tale! But, you are fibbing, you know.
I've met King Fanoma. He's a jolly old man with a big belly!
He laughs like the thunder, and gives me sweets!
His kingdom is just fine!
Stinger: Um...right you are, Prince!
Windleaf: What...?
Stinger: Windleaf may be a fibber, but she tells good stories, right?
Prince
Griffon: I'll say!
Stinger: We need to talk with your mother now.
Prince
Griffon: Oh, I understand. Affairs of state and all that!
Do come again! Tell more tales!
Windleaf: Maybe then I'll tell about the fall of King Khelest!
Prince
Griffon: I can't wait! He's a mean old stinker!
Papa says he'll get what's what if he keeps talking smart!
Windleaf: He's not the only one...
Stinger: Uh...yeah. We better go...
---- The party reforms. Check the sword on the floor.
o--------------------------o
| The actual sword of |
| Zeener, Mage priestess. |
o--------------------------o
--------------------
The Queen's Chambers
--------------------
Setting: There is a very grand four-poster bed and three mirrors and a
chambermaid.
Chambermaid: King's name! Who are you?
Windleaf: We're looking for the Queen.
Chambermaid: Well, this is her bedchamber...but you're not allowed!
Only the royal may enter!
Stinger: How does that explain you, then?
Chambermaid: er...well...I'm the maid!
Only me, and the royals, can be here!
Stinger: Whatever...
Windleaf: Look, we need to speak with the Queen. Can you tell us where she
is?
Chambermaid: Certainly not! Even if I knew, I wouldn't tell!
Her majesty's affairs are her business...not yours!
Stinger: Gee, you've been real helpful.
Chambermaid: Bah! G'way...before I summon a guard!
---- The party regroups.
------------------------
Chamber of the Mage King
------------------------
Setting: A large room full of many shelves and alchemy items.
---- Check the various items.
o------------------------------o
| Chakra balancing tinctures. |
| Good for what ails ya... |
o------------------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Chemicals, placed well out |
| of reach of the hands of |
| youngsters. |
o----------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| Pot-belly mage stove. |
| Vaporises most materials. |
o---------------------------o
---- Check the spilled red liquid on the floor.
o-------------------------o
| An unknown tincture... |
o-------------------------o
Queen
Estrella: You've come at a bad time, warriors.
WIndleaf: Your Majesty...please forgive our intrusion...
Stinger: We mean no disrespect.
Queen
Estrella: I know... You are here on a guest for the Mages, yes?
Stinger: Yes...! How did you know?
Queen
Estrella: It was all in my vision...
...I saw enough to know of you...and our common enemy, the Darg.
Windleaf: Yes...it is attacking our world again. So many have died...
Queen
Estrella: What can I do to help you?
Stinger: The Magi sent us to find ...the blood of a Mage King...
Windleaf: They said...it could be found here, perhaps in a vault?
Queen
Estrella: What you seek was a component for the Spell of Banishment.
My husband was one of the Spell's authors...and the only person to
cast it.
The blood you seek came from his veins...
...and has died with him.
Windleaf: Ho boy... What a day...
Queen
Estrella: I gather that there are no more Mage Kings...?
Windleaf: That is correct...
Queen
Estrella: Then you have failed...
Stinger: What about you, Your Highness?
Aren't you the ruler of Metaboline now? The Mage Queen?
Windleaf: Maybe we can use your blood!
Queen
Estrella: I'm afraid not. I am not of royal blood...that attribute resided in
my husband, Metabolas.
Stinger: But you're the closest thing we have!
Queen
Estrella: You might as well use your own blood then, young man...
---- At this point the Prince enters...bouncing in.
Prince
Griffon: Mommy?
Queen
Estrella: Not now, young one.
P. Griffon:Mommy? When will Papa be home? He promised to teach me a fireball
spell!
---- He bounces up to the Queen.
Queen
Estrella: The blood of a Mage King...
...my son...
...the crown prince of Metaboline...
...and heir to the throne!
Stinger: Keerg's tears! Are you thinking what I'm thinking?
P. Griffon:Mummy? Did you hear me?
Queen
Estrella: Yes, my son... I heard you...
Stinger: I think we've found our Mage King...
Queen
Estrella: Yes...though he hasn't yet received the Rite of Succession...
There are arrangements to be made...procedures, ceremonies...
Windleaf: We understand, Majesty.
Queen
Estrella: You will get what you have come for, my friends.
P. Griffon:What's wrong, mum?
Queen
Estrella: It's...a long story, Griffon...
---- The screen goes black.
o--------------------o
| Some time later... |
o--------------------o
--------------------
The Audience Chamber
--------------------
Setting: In the audience chamber the Queen and Prince are talking to Stinger
and Windleaf.
Queen
Estrella: Here is the precious item you seek, friends. Guard it well...
o--------------------o
| Received the Blood |
| of a Mage King. |
o--------------------o
Queen
Estrella: All is in order, then?
Windleaf: Yes, majesty. I believe so.
Stinger: How are you felling, Prince...er, King...
P. Griffon:I am well, thank you. It didn't hurt...much.
In the future, please address me as 'Your Majesty.'
...unless no one's around. Then call me Griffon!
Queen
Estrella: Ahem.
P.Griffon: Sorry, mum.
Queen
Estrella: He is now formally known as King Metabolas XV...
Stinger: Right...
You'll make a great king, majesty.
P. Griffon:Thanks!
Queen
Estrella: You are most gracious and kind, my lord.
P. Griffon:Tell them about the knighting!
Queen
Estrella: Ah. My son has decreed that the tow of you are Defenders of the
Realm.
As such, you shall be addressed as Sir and Lady when you are among
Metabolinians.
Stinger: It's an honour... Wow...
I'm a knight...
Windleaf: Thank you so much, majesty!
P. Griffon:Don't let me down! I expect to hear tales of your great deeds and
heroism!
Stinger: We'll do our best, majesty.
Queen
Estrella: Of that, we have no doubt.
Good speed to you, heroes. Our best wishes are with you.
Stinger: So long.
Windleaf: Goodbye.
---- The party regroups. Speak to them again.
Queen
Estrella: Greetings, heroes.
King
Metabolas
XV: Nice to see you again. How fares the quest?
Windleaf: We've made progress...but there's still much to do.
Queen
Estrella: Good luck in your travels. Our thoughts and good wishes will be
with you.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revisits (before Leaving)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------
Courtyard and Barracks
----------------------
Guard: Looks like we had a misunderstanding.
Stinger: No hard feelings.
Guard: None here, either. Good luck on your quest.
Peasant: Man, I'm just the Gong Farmer, okay? Leave me be!
Windleaf: Gong...farmer?!
Peasant: I clean the castle sewers, okay? It's not glamorous but it pays the
bills!
Windleaf: Ugh. Right. Carry on...
Courtier: May your travels go smoothly!
Vernon: When the war's over the glory will be ours!
Pat: Now that we're back, this war's as good as won!
-----------
Ladies Room
-----------
Robyn: I hear you'll be leaving us soon. Such a pity...
Kristyne: I hope your time amongst us was...pleasant.
-------------
Jester's Room
-------------
Jester: Next time you're about to get killed, wet your pants.
The enemy might laugh so hard you can get away.
It has worked for me!
----------------
Castellan's Room
----------------
Castellan: Good luck on your quest, brave ones.
--------------
Griffon's Room
--------------
P. Griffon: I never thought I'd be King this soon...but I'll do my best!
That's what papa would want.
--------------------
The Queen's Chambers
--------------------
Queen
Estrella: I shall do my best to rule Metaboline, until my son is fit for the
throne.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
v. The Return Journey 0285
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No scripted events.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vi. Treeside 0286
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------
White Monkey Inn
-----------------
Setting: the hallway of the inn. There is a round desk in the corner and a
chair and table.
Honeywell: Welcome to the White Monkey Inn!
The money's in the till... It's right here...
No need to get nasty, now...
Stinger: Settle down, buddy.
Windleaf: We need to do something about our image...
Honeywell: Aren't you Stinger? Scourge of the Deep Forest Sea?
Stinger: (sigh) yeah, I'm Stinger. bue I'm not a pirate! I'm an honest ship
captain!
Honeywell: Sure you are. And I'm Pappy Kipp.
Stinger: Oh, yeah? Why don't you shove a fegglenut up your...
Windleaf: Stinger!
Stinger: Sorry...
Honeywell: Well, pirate or not, you got rid of Varley. That's good enough for
me.
Windleaf: Thank you...
Honeywell: Care for a room? Only 200 gold!
Yes
No
#Select Yes
Honeywell: No jumping on the beds. No fishing from your window. No smoking in
the room.
And... no mimes.
Windleaf: No...mimes?
Honeywell: Sorry. Can't abide 'em.
Windleaf: Er...right.
---- They go upstairs. Check the table.
o--------------------------o
| Board game called |
| 'High Frustration' often |
| played in these parts. |
| (game in progress, do |
| not touch!) |
o--------------------------o
Downstairs check the picture next to the counter.
o---------------------------o
| The enigmatic and curious |
| Captain White Money. |
| Artist unknown. |
o---------------------------o
-------
The Pub
-------
Setting: The bar has a plain green carpet, tables and chairs and a corner
curved serving counter. There is a fire in the grate and two pictures of
ships. Hans is the barman.
Stinger: Wow. Lots of green here.
Jim: Heh. You noticed?
Windleaf: It's pretty.
Hans: Well, the Baron wanted it that way...though I think we'll keep it.
Windleaf: Oh, I would! Maybe add some ferns...a few flowers...
Stinger: In a PUB?!? You can be such a ditz sometimes!
Windleaf: I'll have you know the pub in Enclaan had ferns and flowers.
Jim: Remind me not to go to Enclaan to drink.
Hans: Got it.
Windleaf: Don't worry...no one's going to drink in Enclaan.
Jim: Huh? Why's that? Town go dry?
Stinger: Town got blown up, actually...
Hans: Oh. Sorry. We didn't know...
Windleaf: It's fine...I brought it up.
Hans: (whew) I was worried for a bit. You all have a reputation...
Stinger: Don't believe every thing you hear...we're really nice people.
Windleaf: For a pair of pirates, that is.
Stinger: (sigh)
Windleaf: Hee hee hee!
---- They regroup. Speak to everyone.
Jim: Business has been slow since the Baron fell.
Things'll pick up once folks realise it's safe to live here again!
Hans What'll it be, folks?
Something smooth
Something strong
Something good
Milk
---- (Change Pointman and the responses are the same)
#Select Something smooth.
Hans: How about a Queen Tulia?
Windleaf: Sounds fine.
Hans: 25 gold, please.
Windleaf: Mmm! That's tasty.
Hans: It's the Fegglenut syrup. Secret ingredient! (wink)
##Select Something strong.
Hans: One Screaming Mime, coming up.
That'll be 40 gold.
Windleaf: !!!
Whaaaaaaaaaa±!
Hans: Heh heh heh. You wanted something strong...
Windleaf: That...could definitely make a mime scream.
Hans: Sure could.
###Select: Something good.
Hans: I know just what you need. Faerie Dew!
Stinger: Sounds good to me.
Hans: 20 gold please.
Stinger: That's pretty good!
####Select:Milk
Hans: Milk...? Heh heh heh...
Stinger: Is there a problem?
Hans: Oh, no...no. No problem at all. (snicker)
Here's your Milk.
Stinger: Hey! It's good for you.
Hans: Sorry. We have no cookies. (chuckle)
Stinger: Keep it up, smart guy...
---- Check the tables.
o--------------------------o
| Typical grungy pub booth |
| with names and assorted |
| curses carved into the |
| table top. |
o--------------------------o
o---------------------------------o
| Curiously spotless fireplace... |
o---------------------------------o
--------
The Shop
--------
Setting: A room with various barrels and cabinets. The shopkeeper is a young
fair woman.
Brianna: Oooh! Pirates! In my store! How thrilling!
Windleaf: Um...we're not exactly pirates.
Brinana: Perhaps. But you're not exactly normal citizens either!
Windleaf: Ha ha! You've got a point.
Stinger: Nice place you have here.
Brianna: All the nicer since you cleared the vermin out of town. Ugh!
No more of the Baron's louts coming in demanding things on credit!
Windleaf: Glad to be of service.
Brianna: If there's anything you'd like... Let me know!
---- Shows inventory.
Brianna: Good luck to you... Stop by any time!
---- Check the right hand corner.
o----------------------------o
| Soft-serve pudding. |
| In green and red flavours. |
o----------------------------o
---- Revisit.
Brianna: Come in, come in! Look around! Shopping is good for the soul!
My doors are always open to you, friends.
---------------
The Weapon Shop
---------------
Setting: Chains across the roof space and wooden shields arranged on a shelf
suggest this is a weapon shop.
Tugger: Captain Stinger, I presume.
Stinger: That's right.
Tugger: Congratulations on your victory over Baron Varley. Most
impressive!
Stinger: Thanks...
Tugger: You'll be happy to know that many young swordsmen are switching to
your style of blade!
Windleaf: Really?
Tugger: Oh, yes. All the young rogues and dandies aspire to be like the
"Pirate Prince!"
Stinger: Oh, for...
Tugger: It's inevitable, old man. Once you're on top, you're bound to be
idolised.
Windleaf: Hee hee! Poor Stinger.
Stinger: Thanks for the news.
Tugger: No problem. Thanks for stopping in!
Care to buy anything?
---- Shows inventory.
Tugger: My business will boom once the local toughs find out you shopped
here!
---- Speak to him again.
Tugger: The famous heroes of Dantyr! Welcome!
Do come again!
---- Check the notice behind the door.
o------------------------------o
| No: |
| Running with knives, swords, |
| daggers or scissors. |
| The Management |
o------------------------------o
---- Check the shields.
o------------------------o
| Disposable balsa wood |
| shields. |
o------------------------o
-----------
The Armoury
-----------
Setting: This is the place where the party met up at the night prison raid.
There is a forge and now an armourer.
Kirby: Hello, there... What can I do for you?
---- Shows inventory.
Kirby: Good day to you!
===============================================================================
29. MAGIC ACADEMY 3 0290
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Return to the Magic Academy
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------
Chiore
------
Setting: Revisits to various locations in Chiore after getting the Quest item.
Pirates Hangout
---------------
Terri: Hoorah! The war's over! Long live the Free Traders!
McFarlane: Here's to the Free Traders! Long may they prosper!
The Sotted Sailors Saloon
-------------------------
Doctor Snee: At last! The war has ended! No more battle scars...No more
deaths.
Here's to peace! Long may it last!
Fletcher: So, the war is over. At last...I can rest easy.
Been pretty busy since the peace. Captain retired...I.m in charge
now. I love it!
Ishmael: Varley's dead, and I'm a happy man because of it! Dirty rotten
scoundrel! Hope he burns in hell!
Hope the pirates...er, Free Traders go easy on me. I need a job!
Cyrus: Stay up and have a nice warm grog!
Stinger: Is it that...near-Grog!
Cyrus: Heck, no! Tis th' real thang! Here! On th' house!
Stinger: (cough)
Cyrus: That's put hair on the soles of yer feet!
---- Speak to him again.
Cyrus: Have a grog?
Stinger: Er...no thanks. Got to keep my head clear!
Cyrus: Suit yerself!
----
Eyre
----
Entrance
--------
Mervin: Greetings to the Heroes.
Stinger: Hello, Mervin.
Mervin: We are ready to depart.
Stinger: That's good to hear.
Mervin: Report to the Bridge when you are ready to leave.
Stinger: Thanks. We will.
Bridge
------
Wallace: Greetings, Heroes. Ready to depart?
Yes
No
#Select No
Wallace: You know the drill. Report here when you're ready.
##Select Yes.
Wallace: Very well. Helm! Release the docking clamps!
How about it, mister. Care to take us out?
Stinger: You better believe it! Navigator, set a course for...
Cut scene of Eyre sailing back to Kheslestra and stopping at Anglerville.
Wallace: Here we are! Come back here when you're ready to leave!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Magic Academy
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FMV of two flying enemies firing flames at the window of the Academy.
Setting: Stinger and Windleaf approach the ruined Academy.
Stinger: Hokum... First he takes Harv-5... And now the Magi...
Windleaf: It's hopeless... It's over...
Helios: (Cough...cough)
Stinger: Helios. Where are you?
Helios: Over here, near the entrance...
---- They run to the ruins to find Helios on the ground in a pool of
blood.
Helios: H...Hokum... He was laughing... Unmistakable voice...
Stinger: Save your energy. We'll go get help!
Helios: Too late for that. Listen...listen to what I have to say...
I haven't much time...
===============================================================================
PLEASE INSERT DISC 2
(if Jirina's group are still in Wyldern)
===============================================================================
==============
Jirina's Group
==============
-------------
Magic Academy (After completing Stinger and Windleaf's mission.
-------------
Scene of two flying monsters firing flames at the Academy.
Jirina: Over there! It's Stinger and Windleaf!
Xero: Let's go lend a hand! Or whatever...
---- They rush forwards to find Helios in the ground with Stinger and
Windleaf close to him.
======================
BOTH GROUPS AND HELIOS
======================
Helios: They broke the seal on the Tunnel...between the Worlds.
Attacked...in force...
Knew we ...should have blown South Cartoff Island off the face of
the world...
Stinger: It's over...
Helios: (Cough...gag...)
Clemett: What a waste of time and eneregy...
Xero: Everything we just did was for maught...
Jirina: There will be no Spell of Banishment...
Stinger: Keerg's bloody soul!
Of COURSE there ain't gonna be no spell! Everything's been trashed
...they've looted the place!
Helios: (Cough...) No...not...correct...
Damon's troops...did not find what they sought. Only...the Codex
was lost.
The elements of the spell are still ours...Orb is safe with the
Sages in Karillon.
Windleaf: But without the Codex, we won't know the proper incantations and
rites!
Helios: Hush! (cough cough)
I wasn't born yesterday, girl!
I took precautions...(Cough...)
Had a backup plan...
Stinger: I knew old "Hellraiser" Helios wouldn't let us down!
Helios: Seek an ancient carved Tablet in Castle Metaboline. Estrella will
know of it...
Stinger: Oh man...Metaboline again...I hate that place...
Windleaf: The Tablet...it has the information we need?
Helios: Not...(cough)...quite.
Clemett: Why did I know he'd say that?
Helios: You...must also retrieve the Scroll of Silence...
Xero: Where does it lie, old master?
Helios: In...in...
WHUAAAGGGH! (Cough cough cough) Uuuuuurghh...
Ar...ar...Artelier. Scroll's in...Artelier.
Scroll...tablet...artefacts. All...all y...you need...to cast the
Spell...
You must go...to Tyr Og Nor. Face the Darg at the place where ti si
the strongest.
Strike swiftly...and with conviction...in your hearts...
The world believes in you...my children...as do I...
...You can do this...(Gasp...choke...)
Xero: Helios...HELIOS...!
---- Helios sits up one last time...
Helios: ....
---- Then he drops back to the ground and stops moving.
Windleaf: He's dead.
Stinger: We...we have to finihse this... We were too close...it was all
coming together... We can't just quit...
Xero: Who said anything about quitting?
That is exactly what Hokum wants.
The man told us what we needed to do, didn't he?
Clemett: Right. The Head and I will leave for Artelier. They know us
there...
Xero: We'll go back to Bene-Brokul... The Windtravellers will surely aid
us again!
Stinger: The rest of us will drop by Karillon to pick up the Orb from the
Sages.
Then we can continue on to Metaboline in Eyre...
Jirina: The plan is sound.
The extra person going to Karillon can help safeguard all the
artefacts the group will be carrying.
Stinger: Let's reunite in Eyre when we have the stuff we need. She'll be
docked at Chiore.
Xero: Agreed...but...how are we to get to Wyldern once we've got what we
need?
Clemett: Yeah...the Mole's finished. Sub's history, too.
Stinger: You heard Helios... The monsters are oming to Arkose through this
"Tunnel between Worlds" thing.
If they can use it, we can use it, too!
Once we're all in Eyre. we'll sail to the South Cartoff Island and
get down to business.
Xero: Right!
Clemett: OK, then. See you in Eyre, kid. Should only take us a few days.
Windleaf: Take care, you two.
Stinger: All right, already! Let's get going!
---- The screen goes black.
o--------------------------o
| Meanwhile.... |
| In distant Tyr Og Nor... |
o--------------------------o
------------
Hokum's Hall
------------
Setting: Damon Hokum is alone in the large green hall with the central pool and
large throne. He is at the far end of the room.
Damon
Hokum: It begins...
Each side in pain. Each side bleeding.
Each side thirsty for vengeance...
---- He paces from left to right.
Hokum: How many souls must I harvest before you give up?!
Legions fall, forts crumble, bodies burn...but their march continues.
---- He walks up facing the screen.
Hokum: But there is blood on their hands... And the Darg venom lives deep
within all of them...
They spread the contagion as they march along!
---- He continues to walk closer.
Hokum: They are not strong enough to create the antivenom!
Their deaths will teach the others a lesson in futility...
It shall be the final nail in this world's 'coffin...'
---- He walks to centre screen this side of the pool and faces the front.
Hokum: The Power will possess this world then...
And I will reign supreme...
The party splits in two.
===============================================================================
30. KARILLON AND DANTYR 0300
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Return to Karillon 0301
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------
Gogarin Keep
------------
Sir George: Hail and well met, fellow warriors!
Jirina: Greetings, Sir Knight.
Sir George: Is evil still afoot?
Jirina: We're afraid so.
Sir George: Very well. Carry on!
--------------
Entrance Gates
--------------
Alaan: Hey, Stinger. Windleaf...
Benj: Whoa! Who's that with ya?
Windleaf: This is Jirina. She's from...
Stinger: Out of town.
Alaan: Welcome to Karillon, good lady.
Jirina: Thank you. I am honoured to be in such a place.
Benj: Hey! You got a sister?
Alaan: Shut up, Benj.
Jirina: I have three sisters. Why do you ask?
Benj: Oh...nothing. Heh heh. Just curious...
Stinger: We should probably get going. Gotta talk to the Council right away.
Alaan: Er...that's not gonna be possible, Stinger.
Stinger: What?!
Alaan: The Council sealed off Hightowne a week ago.
Benj: Yeah, with them all in it!
Alaan: Well, except for the Captain.
Windleaf: Why did they do that?!
Alaan: Council Order 118. "Due to the extent of the plague known as
Shadow Madness...
...the district of Hightowne is seceding from the rest of Karillon
until such time as the plague expires."
Stinger: That's just...
Benj: Insane?
Stinger: Yeah...
Alaan: That's what we think, too.
The Captain's ready to go up there and kick some sense into them,
but...
We're a little short on manpower these days...even with the draft.
Stinger: The draft?!?
Alaan: Yeah. We're under martial law. Every able-bodied citizen is up for
the draft.
Stinger: Keerg's teeth! Got any more good news?
Alaan: Not really, no.
Windleaf: Are the Sages still around?
Alaan: Yeah, far as I know.
Windleaf: Whew. They should be able to help us.
Alaan: Good luck. I'll let the sector watch know you're here.
Benj: Good call. Otherwise, they might draft ya... Or arrest ya...
Stinger: Swell... Thanks, guys.
Alaan: Don't mention it.
---- The group reforms. Speak to them again.
Alaan: I hope things settle down soon. My wife's pregnant again!
Benj: Can't believe I haven't been promoted yet.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oldtowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------
The Temple
----------
Setting: There are two Guards at the front of the Temple.
Stinger: Hey! Where are the monks?
Ossar: They have...passed on. The city is taking care of things here now.
Windleaf: Goodness! When did this happen?
Namm: Not long ago... 'Bout a couple of weeks... Right before I got
drafted.
Stinger: Oh man.
Ossar: The place isn't much of a sanctuary any more...more like a
sanitarium.
Namm: Only for the ones we can catch...and that don't try and kill us.
Windleaf: It's that bad...?
Ossar: I'm afraid so. Oldtowne has been hit hard. It gets
rough...especially at night...
Namm: Most people lock themselves up...some...some never come back out.
Ossar: I hope this rumour of a cure is true...otherwise, we're done for.
Windleaf: It is true. Help will be coming soon.
Stinger: Count on it.
Ossar: Best news I've heard in weeks...
Namm: Ditto! Can't get here soon enough, though!
Stinger: Hang in there...
---- The party regroups. Speak to the three people at the back.
Lily: ...
Otis: Qwert?
Stinger: What?
Otis: Yuiop! Qwert yuoip!
Stinger: Right...
Rosco: toestoestoestoestoes
nosenosenosenose
hoshoshoshos
-----------------------
The Chambermaid's House
-----------------------
Setting: All three children are dressed exactly the same, with red tops and
blue trousers.
Zed: Hey look! More soldiers!
Ned: And they have a pet monster!
Zed: She's scary lookin'!
Windleaf: Children! That's not very nice!
Jirina: Be at ease. If they offend me, I shall snap their necks like dry
twigs.
Zed: !!!
Ned: !!!
Stinger: Uh, Jirina...
Jirina: In my homeland, insolent children are dunked in honey and tied up
near beehives.
If they continue to misbehave, they are used as fishing bait.
Zed: Y-you're f-fibbing!
Ned: Y-yeah! J-just trying to scare us!
Jirina: I do not know you. Why should I care if you are frightened or not?
I merely seek to educate you...sniff...sniff...
Stinger: Now you did it.
Zed: Ned messed his pants.
Ned: Did not! YOU did!
Zed: Did not!
Ned: Did!
Jirina: QUIET!
Zed: ...
Ned: ...
Jirina: Better. We will go now.
---- The group reforms. Speak to them again.
Ned: I want my mamma!
Zed: Please don't tell the Captain I've been bad.
---- Go upstairs and speak to Dewitt.
Dewitt: The Captain and I make toy soldiers together. It's neat!
----------
Guardhouse
----------
Setting: There are more people here this time.
Xavier: Get this place cleaned up, recruits!
Stinger: What, they let you do the yelling now, Xavier?
Xavier: Stinger! Windleaf! Good to see you!
Who's your very good looking...exotic...tall friend?
Jirina: I am Jirina of the Org-Ta.
Xavier: A pleasure, madam.
Stinger: Man...they'll let anyone in the Gurad these days.
I mean, really...The Dung Merchant?!?
Xavier: Hey, Stinky does his part. Best outhouse digger in the Guard!
Stinger: Figures.
Xavier: Seriously, man... We had to draft these guys to get a skeleton crew.
Windleaf: We heard. The madness...
Xavier: Yeah...even got old Ziggy.
Needless to say we could use your help.
Stinger: Wish I could...but...you know...
Xavier: Yeah. We all do our part.
Stinger: Take care, man.
Xavier: You too.
---- They regroup. Speak to everyone.
Xavier: I finally make Sergeant, and my first thought was "This barracks is
filthy!"
Dung
Merchant: I thought being in the army would get me out of shovelling. WRONG!
Dane: I don't know what's worse. Going insane or being in the army...
Traylor: First I get drafted. Then my dang wife takes over the store.
Soon I'll be broke or dead...or both!
-----------------
The Blue Door Pub
-----------------
Setting: All the customers are in the Guard uniform.
McKee: I knew it! I just KNEW they'd draft me! Never mind my bum leg! I
must be cursed!
Becker: Militia like stinks! Bad pay, hard work, and poor food!
Donaghue: The militia's gone t'pot now that we got all these draftees!
Ain't none of 'em half the man I am! Har!
Leif: I can't believe they drafted me! I have flat feet!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Middletowne New Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------
Guild Hall
----------
Setting: Same as before.
Mason: Great Khelest's Ghost!
Jeweler: What in the...
Stinger: Settle down, guys! Jirina isn't the enemy!
Plumber: You gotta understand, Stinger. Things have been ugly lately...
nerves are short.
Carpenter: You can't just walk in with an...alien...like that!
Jirina: Humph! I see your people are not as accepting as mine!
Stinger: As I recall, you were ready to kill us when we first met...
Windleaf: Right...
Jirina: As you say. I stand corrected.
Mason: Er...miss Jirina, is it? You must forgive our manners. Welcome to
the Guild Hall.
Jirina: Thank you. It is nice to see that some things transcend the worlds.
Jeweler: Really?
Jirina: Yes. The Guilds of Wyldern were a force to be reckoned with...
Until the rise of Hokum, that is.
Carpenter: Hmph. On that count, our worlds are the same.
Plumber: I'll say! This war has crippled Karillon.
Stinger: I hear Hightwone went ahead and closed the doors.
Mason: Yes, the infernal morons! We tried to talk sense into them, and
they ignored us.
Carpenter: For all the good it'll do. The militia is preparing to retake
Hightowne as we speak.
Stinger: That's gonna get ugly.
Mason: Well...yes. But there's bound to be repairs needed!
Carpenter: Yes! Quite a bit, I'll wager...
Jeweler: Plenty of medals to hand out, too!
Jirina: They're Guildsmen, all right. Always with an eye on profit!
Mason: But of course dear woman! We are businessmen, after all!
Stinger: Tch. Some things never change!
---- They regroup. Speak to them all again.
Mason: Civil war in Karillon... Disgusting... But profitable!
Jeweler: I can't wait to make "War's End" commemorative figurines!
Carpenter: Catapults, ballistas... Gotta love a wartime economy!
Plumber: I'm surprised I haven't been drafted yet.
------------------
State Nursing Home
------------------
Ole Moon: I 'member when a fella could get by with a sword four feet long.
Nowadays, the durn swords are at least eight feet long! It's
insanity!
Nurse: It's odd... The madness seems to avoid the elderly...
Senile
Valkyrie: Where's my chakram? I can't fight evil without it!
Insane
Mage: Teachers can be poor learners.
(As before)
----------------
Grishame's House
----------------
Grishame: Keerg's sainted mother! I thought I'd never see you again!
Stinger: That makes us a pair...
Grishame: This must be Jirina. A pleasure to meet you!
Jirina: Ah. The scribe. I have heard of you. You are chronicling our
adventures.
Grishame: Famous, even in Wyldern! I love it!
Let's begin with you, Jirina. I'd love to hear your tales!
---- The screen goes black.
Jirina: And that was that. Keerg is no more.
Grishame: (gulp) Such a tragic end...
Stinger: Yeah...why don't you leave that out?
Grishame: But of course. Let's let his legend remain pure...
Windleaf: A good idea.
Grishame: So...off to Metaboline once more, eh?
Stinger: Yep.
Grishame: I'm thinking of having a boat built and going there myself!
Windleaf: Really?
Grishame: Yes! I'd love to interview the Metaboline Queen! What a story
she'll have!
Stinger: Not a bad idea... Maybe you can ride on my ship to get there.
Grishame: I'd be honoured.
Jirina: Speaking of travelling...
Stinger: Right...gotta go.
Grishame: Oh...don't forget your money!
o---------------------o
| 1000 gold received! |
o---------------------o
Windleaf: Thanks! See you later!
Grishame: You'd better! This story needs an ending...
Preferably a happy one! Those sell better!
---- The party regroups. Speak to him again.
Grishame: Good luck, folks!
--------------
Hall of Wisdom
--------------
Setting: As before.
High Sage: By the first book! I'm so glad to see you!
Geelee: Look!
Alif: Is it...? Can it be...?
Nepear: It is! It's an ORG!!!
Jirina: Orgran preserve me...
Geelee: Is it true, ma'am? Can you see in the dark?
Alif: Is your gestation period 13 months in length.
Nepaer: Do you practice bigamy, or polygamy?
Jirina: ...
High Sage: Acolytes! Show some restraint!
High Sage: We are not mere reporters, seeking a juicy story to sell papers.
We are SAGES! True masters of information!
And as such, we are obligated to be professional at all times!
Jirina: It's quite all right, elder. They are...zealous in their pursuit
of knowledge.
My mother follows Wisdom's Path. She gets just as excited when new
knowledge comes her way.
High Sage: Perhaps someday we can meet. The wisdom we could share...
Stinger: Yeah...speaking of sharing...
High Sage: Yes, O impatient one?
Stinger: We...uh...need to collect the Orb from you guys.
High Sage: Oh...oh, no...
Windleaf: I am afraid the Magi...have fallen.
High Sage: This is a dark day. A moment of silence, please.
---- There is silence for a few seconds.
High Sage: Thank you, all.
Stinger: Helios told us about the backup plan...before he died.
High Sage: Of course. Professional to the end...
Here is the Orb. Guard it well.
o------------------o
| Received the Orb |
| of the Heavens! |
o------------------o
Stinger: Thanks. We will!
High Sage: I presume you will be seeking the Tablet and Scroll as well?
Windleaf: Just the tablet...The others will collect the Scroll.
High Sage: To quote Orgran...May your journey end in victory.
Jirina: Long live the Org-Ta...
Stinger: Long live Karillon.
---- The party regroups. Speak to them all again.
High Sage: Dark as it may seem, I feel the end is near... A good end...
Nepear: The things you've done...and you're not much older than I am!
Wow!
Alif: Some time you must listen to the songs I have written about you!
Geelee: I must tell you... Some of your exploits are terrifying!
--------------
Captain Willis
--------------
Willis: Stinger... Windleaf...
Stinger: Captain.
Windleaf: This is...
Willis: The woman from Wyldern. I've been briefed. Hello, miss...?
Jirina: I am called Jirina>
Willis: Sounds like a proud name. A fighter's name.
Jirina: It is. you are a man of insight.
Stinger: Uh...yeah.
Windleaf: News travels fast, Captain. We just arrived, and you knew about
Jirina and her origins.
Willis: I have sentries all over. The one who brought this report on you
is an ex-Sage. He filled in the blanks.
Jirina: Organisation and efficiency. I respect these qualities. You run
your military well.
Willis: Thank you... Fine praise, indeed.
Stinger: So...Captain... We hear the Council's been busy lately...
Willis: Yes...the fools think their quarantine will save them from the
madness.
Windleaf: Fear and stupidity often walk hand in hand.
Willis: Indeed. And now...it has come to civil war.
Stinger: That's bad...real bad.
Willis: It is necessary. Hightowne is a valuable part of Karillon...for
many reasons.
Being able to summon Eyre is one big reason.
High ground is another. If the REAL enemy should come...we will
need it.
Finally...if Karillon is to make a final stand...it should do so
united.
Stinger: I can respect that...
Windleaf: Hopefully a peaceful solution will come before combat is necessary.
Willis: The sands are running our on that option...but I agree with you.
Invading Hightowne isn't my idea of a good time.
Stinger: Well...as much as I'd like to stay and help...
Willis: Understood. Your work is crucial. Without it, all may be lost.
I know you'll do your best. I hope to see you soon.
Stinger: Same here. Good luck, Captain.
---- The group joins together. Speak to him again.
Willis: We're in it deep, but I realise you're needed out there.
Good luck...heroes. Don't let us down!
------
Skyway
------
Attendant: Sorry, folks. The Skyway has been shut down. No more trips!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back to Eyre
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------
The Bridge
----------
Wallace: Greetings, Heroes. I understand we'll be making the trip to Dantyr
again.
Stinger: That's right, Commodore.
Walllace: Well, we'll not be flying this time. One crash is enough!
Jirina: The city...can fly?
Wallace: It COULD fly, yes. It may yet again. But not today!
Jirina: Yet another wonder of Apunn-sii...
Wallace: You are from Wyldern, yes?
Jirina: Correct. I am Jirina of the Org-Ta Warclan.
Wallace: Sounds like a fine band of fighters. Welcome aboard.
Jirina: Thank you, Commodore.
Wallace: Are you ready to depart, heroes?
Yes
No
#Select No.
Wallace: Very well. Report here when you are.
##Select Yes.
Wallace: Helm! Prepare for the open sea.
Navigator! Plot course for Dantyr.
Helm! Ahead, cruise speed!
Scene of Eyre saling back to Dantyr.
Wallace: Here we are! Come back here when you're ready to leave!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Return to Dantyr 0302
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is no new dialogue until the party reaches Metaboline.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metaboline Castle
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
Courtyard
---------
Setting: The grassy courtyard.
Guard: Peace be with you, travellers!
Stinger: Hello there.
Courtier: Sir Stinger. Lady Windleaf...and...a guest.
Jirina: I am called Jirina.
Coutrier: A pleasure, milady.
Windleaf: It's nice to be back. This place is so pretty! Peaceful...
Courtier: Prettier still now that you are with us, milady.
Stinger: Uh...yeah. Hey, is the Queen busy?
Courtier: I do not know. I expect she {is} holding court at this time.
Stinger: Thanks.
Courtier: Don't mention it.
It's the least I can do for defenders of the realm.
---- The party regroups. Speak to everyone again.
Courtier: Welcome back!
Guard: Welcome back, allies.
Peasant: Quest all you want, just leave me out of it!
--------
Barracks
--------
Vernon: Can't believe it...another 12 hour shift!
Pat: Those monsters...I don't know where they come from but they sure do
come...
Stinger: How's it goin', guys?
Vernon: Humph...Mister Bigshot from Khelest is back.
Pat: Yeah...but the King vouches for him, so he's okay in my book.
Vernon: A mere technicality...
Windleaf: It sounds like you are pulling lots of patrol duty lately.
Vernon: Yeah...monsters must be breedin' like bunnies...
Pat: Seems like for every one we kill. four more take it's place.
Vernon: Good practice, though! I'm runnin' outta room on my hit for kill
notches!
Pat: Me too!
Stinger: Believe me... Pretty soon you'll stop counting...
Vernon: No way! We got a bet going on!
Pat: Most kills at the end of the week drinks free!
Jirina: Ahhh... The young warrior spirit! Reminds me of home...
Vernon: We've heard about Orgs. In fact...we might be sending a legion down
to help out!
Jirina: You'll be welcomed. We need all the swords we can muster
Pat: Well, if we come, you can rest easy!
Pat: Each Metabolinian is worth a dozen other men!
Jirina: Oh? Is that so?
Vernon: That's right, sister. We're the best!
Jirina: You'd better be. Otherwise, you'll become the choice meal for
Hokum's dogs...
Stinger: Ha!
Windleaf: I think we better go. It's starting to get deep in here...
---- The party regroups. Speak to them both again.
Pat: Wyldern or bust!
Vernon: Can't wait to go to Wyldern! I wanna see how tough these Orgs are!
----------------
Audience Chamber
----------------
Setting: The large red room with two thrones. Queen Estrella and King
Metabolas XV are waiting.
King M.: Sir Stinger. Lady Windleaf. It is good to see you again.
Queen E.: Who is your companion?
Windleaf: This is Jirina, from the land of Wyldern.
Queen E.: Wyldern...my late husband journeyed there once...he spoke highly of
the people within.
King M.: Are you an emissary of the Org Empire?
Jirina: That empire has since fallen, majesty.
I serve the Org-Ta, an order of warriors sworn to protect the land.
King M.: A female knight! How interesting! We should get some of those!
Queen E.: Ah...yes. What brings you to Metaboline, my friends?
Windleaf: We need the Tablet the Magi left in your care, majesty.
King M.: The Magi suspected their days were numbered.
Queen E.: I shall lament their passing...They were kindred spirits.
Stinger: Everything's okay, right?
King M.: But of course! Why wouldn't it be?
Queen E.: I've kept the Tablet on my person...the safest place within the
castle. Here you are.
o-----------------------o
| Earned the Metaboline |
| Tablet. |
o-----------------------o
Stinger: We'll guard it with our lives, majesty.
King M.: Is the time near? For the final assault, I mean?
Windleaf: Very close, majesty. Most of the enemy has been routed.
Jirina: With luck, this information will let us deliver the death stroke.
Queen E.: You will be in our thoughts...and hearts.
King M.: Good speed and luck to you!
---- The party regroups. Speak to them both again.
Queen E.: Travel safely...I would see you again.
King M.: When this is done... Come stay with us. I would hear your tales of
valour and glory!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Dialogue
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Jester's Room
-----------------
Jester: The new King is exhausting me! Juggle this... Tumble that...
That kid's gonna be the death of me yet!
The Ladies Room
---------------
Robyn: I had hoped you would return! Please stay a little longer!
Kristyne: I had a feeling you'd return...call it intuition.
Castellan
---------
Castellan: An honour to see you. Is everything in order?
Stinger: Yes, everything's fine.
Castellan: Fine. Just fine.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eyre Again
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------
Eyre Entrance
-------------
Setting: Mervin is waiting at the entrance to Eyre.
Mervin: Greetings. How goes the mission?
Stinger: Mission accomplished.
Mervin: One moment. Informing the Makers.
...
Very well. Report to the Bridge when you are ready to depart.
Stinger: Thanks, Mervin.
-----------
Inside Eyre
-----------
Setting: Just inside the entrance the party stops to talk.
Stinger: Here we are again...
Windleaf: Yes. It's almost like home.
Jirina: Humph!
Stinger: I wonder if the others have returned?
---- The game switches to the other group if their mission is still in
progress.
===============================================================================
31. BENE BROKUL AND SILTHERIA 0310
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Return to Bene-Brokul 0311
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------
The Well of Sorrows
-------------------
Setting: Three villagers are standing at the well.
Shep: Hey! Ragask! Look who's back!
Ragark: Hail and well met, Xero. Who's your friend?
Xero: This is Clemett, late of Eyre and New Gubrath.
Clemtt: Pleased to meet you, gents.
Shep: Hold everything...that there's a Gadgeteer!
Ragark: Now don't get your britches in a bunch, Shep.
Ragark: If Xero vouches for him, he's okay in my book.
Shep: Yeah...I suppose.
Ragark: What brings you to Bene-Brokul, friends?
Xero: We're in need of the Windtraveller's aid again.
Shep: Well, you're in luck there, pal. Davin's still in town.
Xero: Davin? He's alive?!
Ragark: Sure is...though he almost didn't make it.
Shep: He barely made it back from Siltheria...guess the enemy jumped him
there.
Xero: I suspected as much.
Ragark: Anyhow, he limped that glider back here and drug himself inot town.
Shep: When we found him, he was barely alive...and beatin' hisself up for
leavin' y'all over in the desert.
Xero: Well, all's well that ends well. Where is the lad?
Ragark: Out on the cliffs with the glider...he's fixed it up.
Shep: Keeps talkin' about goin' to look for you fellers, too. He'll
prob'ly be glad to see ya!
Xero: No doubt. We shall have to visit him.
Ragark: Sounds good t'me. Nice to see you back in town.
Shep: Maybe one o'these days you can stick around for a spell!
Xero: I'd be delighted. Here's hoping that day come soon!
Ragark: Aye!
Shep: I'll drink to that!
Clemett: It's unanimous.
---- They regroup. Speak to them again.
Ragark: If you fellers need to stay the ngiht, my barn's avaible as always!
Moira: Thank you so much!
Shep: Make yourself at home, heroes!
-------------------
Meeting Davin Again
-------------------
Setting: Davin is waiting with his Windtraveller on the ledge.
Davin: Can it be...? Do my eyes see truly?
Xero: Davin! How are you, lad?
Davin: Better at the sight of you, sir!
Xero: I hear you had a spot of trouble at the Plateaus...
Davin: Yes. The enemy came in force while you were away. I did my best
to hold the position...
Xero: It's quite all right, dear boy. We fared well thereafter.
Davin: I'm glad for that. They were rather irate when they found you
weren't present.
Clemett: I'll bet.
Davin: How terribly rude of me. I am Davin, glidescout of the
Windtravellers.
Clemett: The name's Clemett. Gadgeteer First Grade.
Davin: A pleasure, sir.
Clemett: So...how'd you get away from Hokum's boys?
Davin: It wasn't easy...they captured me and planned on waiting until you
returned, then ambushing you.
However, they got very drink one evening...and I slipped out of my
bonds and made for the skies.
Xero: You're quite fortunate.
Davin: Yes. Had they been of clear mind, their arrow would have struck
true...instead of grazing me.
After that, I made for home. The winds were kind to me that day...
Xero: We're glad you made it back...but I'm afraid we need your aid once
more.
Davin: You shall have it.
Clemett: This is one brave kid, Head!
Xero: Quite right, old man.
Davin: The glider is ready for use. Shall we depart?
Yes
No
#Select No.
Davin: Very good, sir. I shall remain here until you are ready to take to
the skies.
##Select Yes.
Davin: Excellent, sir! I've been longing for the skies. All aboard!
Xero: Let's go, old man.
Clemett: This ought to be interesting...
Xero: It's breathtaking... Wait and see!
Davin: To the skies!
FMV of the glider.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Return to Artelier 0312
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Uhndrashi Plateaus
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The same landing plateau as before.
Clemett: Whoa! That was one wild ride, boy!
Davin: I am glad you enjoyed it, sir. I've heard your people have a flying
city...perhaps one day I shall visit you there.
Clemett: That'd be fine with me.
Xero: Well, hopefully we won't run into the same troubles as last time,
Davin.
Davin: I sincerely hope so, sir.
Clemett: We'll be quick.
Davin: I shall be here when you return, sir.
Xero: See you then!
Davin: Good travelling, sirs.
---- Speak to him again.
Davin: Greetings, sirs. Have you found what you seek?
Xero: Not just yet, Davin.
Davin: I trust you have your reasons. I shall remain until your mission
here is complete.
--------------------
The Door to Artelier
--------------------
Setting: In front of the dark green door that leads to Artelier.
Clemett: Well, Head... Here we are again!
Xero: The hallowed wonder that is Artelier...ahh.
Clemett: I hope the Loremaid has settled down...
Xero: That reminds me... Just what is going on between you two?
Clemett: Long story...sniff... Sniff...
Xero: I say...I recognise that stench...
Clemett: Yeah...get ready to rumble!
---- The Stalker leaps in from of them coming from the right. It is
shaking as it stands in front of the door, facing the party.
Stalker: (ahem) rrrrrAAAAAAAAAARRRR!
Clemett: rrrrrAAAAAAARRRR...? What kind of roar was that?!?
Stalker: Oh, fudge...it didn't scare you at all?
---- It stops shaking.
Clemett: Are you kidding? You sound like an old woman clearing her throat!
Stalker: Brutal, but fair. Curse it all! I hate this job!
---- He starts jumping up and down in frustration.
Stalker: Darn it! Darn it, darn it, darn it! DARN IT!
Xero: ...
Clemett: Head, did you put something in my coffee?
Xero: No, I'm afraid not.
Stalker: Listen, fellas... I'm really not cut out for this monster stuff.
Clemett: You can say that again.
Stalker: Do we really have to do all this...fighting.
It's so barbaric... Messy, sticky, sweaty... All that grunting and
yelling...
It's no way for a gentleman to carry on!
Xero: I wholeheartedly agree.
Clemett: Well... Now what?
Should we put this thing out of it's misery, or let it go?
Kill it!
Show mercy.
#Select Show mercy.
Stalker: Oh, thank you! You're true gentlemen!
As a token of my esteem, please accept this relic.
o----------------------o
| Stalker gives you an |
| Enigma Blade! |
o----------------------o
I was to use it to commit murderous acts, but...
Clemett: You made the right call there, big fella.
Stalker: Thank you. Now... If you don't mind...
I think I'm going to find a nice quiet field of poppies to roll in.
Xero: Enjoy yourself!
---- The Stalker bounds off to the left.
Clemett: Unbelievable.
Xero: Quite.
---- The party joins together again.
---------------
Revisit Chunnel
---------------
Clemett: The chunnel's choked with rubble. No way to get by.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Artelier
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loreman: Greetings, friends.
Loremaid: Clemett! I'm so happy to see you again!
Clemett: Er...yeah. Hi there...
Loreman: I hope this is a social call...
Xero: Unfortunately not, Loreman. The Magi have fallen.
Loreman: Dear me...
Loremaid: It is quite fortunate they thought of us, then. The Scroll is
secure.
Clemett: That's good news.
Loreman: Loremaid...be a dear and fetch the Scroll of our guests.
Loremaid: Yes, sir.
---- She climbs the ladder and goes to the top left bookshelf.
Xero: So...how have things been since last we met?
Loreman: Well and good. We've not been harassed since.
I feel our remote location has hindered the enemy's advance.
I'm planning on hiring workers to begin restoration on the city.
Clemett: Well, good luck. Seems like everyone's rebuilding their homes these
days.
Loremaid: Here's the Scroll, as you requested!
o--------------------------------------o
| Party receives the Artelier Scroll. |
o--------------------------------------o
Xero: Thank you, dear.
Loremaid: Anything to help a friend of Clemett!
Clemett: ...
Loreman: Will you be...staying long, friends?
Xero: Afraid not. We've got to meet the others soon.
Clemett: Yeah...if we don't get back to the Glider soon, we might miss our
ride to Eyre.
Loremaid: Oh, pooh!
Loreman: Well...our home is yours while you're here.
Clemett: Thanks, Loreman.
---- They regroup. Speak to the two again.
Loremaid: We're at your service here.
Loreman: Stay sharp out there!
Return to Davin
---------------
Davin: Good to see you, sirs. Will we {be} departing now?
#Select Yes.
Davin: Excellent, sir! What is our course?
Xero: Chiore. We'll be meeting the others there.
Clemett: You'll get to see Eyre after all, kid...though she won't be in the
sky.
Davin: I'm sure she' majestic wherever she goes, sir.
Clemett: That's a fact.
Xero: I'm looking forward to seeing Eyre, too.
Davin: To the skies!
Scene of the Windtraveller gliding across the red plateaus and then past
Atelier and across the sea to Dantyr. It crosses each map in turn and takes a
while to get there.
-----------
Inside Eyre
-----------
Setting: The Recreation Area. They are all standing in front of the entrance
to the elevator
Clemett: Ah, Eyre. Home at last.
Davin: Magnificent... The stuff of dreams...
Xero: Truly a testimony to your peoples' ingenuity, old man.
Clemett: Thanks. Head. Let's see if the others are about.
Davin: I shall remain here, sirs.
Clemett: Try not to get lost, kid.
---- Xero and Clemett walk down the concourse towards the exit door.
---------
Exit Door
---------
Setting: The two groups meet up at the exit doorway.
Xero: Glad to see you all.
Windleaf: Were you successful?
Clemett: Sure thing, sweetie. how about you?
Stinger: We got the job done. And don't call me sweetie again!
Clemett: Ha ha! Haven't lost your idiotic sense of humour, eh?!
Jirina: And did you ever really doubt we'd prevail?
Clemett: Not even for a moment, big gal.
Xero: Well...it would seem we have what we need.
Stinger: Yep. I don't know about you guys...but I say we get after Mannheim.
Windleaf: I'm ready.
Jirina: Agreed.
Clemett: Fine by me, eh.
Stinger: Excellent. Let's tell the Commodore to get this crate underway!
---- There is a cut scene as Eyre sails south to South Cartoff Island.
Stinger: Okay. Windleaf, Jirina and I will go scout the place out...see if
Mannheim's around.
Windleaf: Once the coast is clear, we'll come back for the rest of you.
Clemett: Ah...no offence to the big gal, but...I want to go on this one.
Jirina: Eh...? What for?
Clemett: I've got a little grudge to settle with that Mannheim...and...uh...
Windleaf: Yes?
Clemett: I'm...ah...a little uncomfortable here... things aren't real easy
for me now.
Xero: I see...old wounds?
Clemett: Yeah...I mean, everyone's being straight with me...but there's this
vibe...
I still feel like a pariah.
Stinger: Hey, no problem, buddy. Jirina could use the rest anyway.
Jirina: May your path end in victory, warbrother.
Clemett: Thanks, big gal. Let's get going, eh?
Stinger: See you all soon.
---- Stinger, Windleaf and Clemett leave Eyre and are on a wooden jetty.
===============================================================================
32. SOUTH CARTOFF ISLAND 0320
===============================================================================
The group arrives at South Cartoff Island and exit Eyre onto the jetty, in
front of the cliffs.
----------
The Jetty
---------
Setting: The party arrives from Eyre on to a wooden jetty facing some cliffs.
Stinger: South Cartoff Island...
Let's hope Mannheim's long gone...I don't want to spend any more
time here than I have to.
----------------
Under the Arches
----------------
Setting: At the top of the cliff with the arches in the background, the party
meets up with Mannheim.
Mannheim: Ahhh. Greetings, one and all.
Stinger: Okay, guys... Let's finish this punk once and for all!
Clemett: Right with ya, boss. I''m gonna use this guy's skull for a
paperweight!
Mannheim: Oh, those were both good. Especially the part about the
paperweight!
Come now, Windleaf? No outbursts to add? No gushing of bravado?
---- Windleaf walks forward to confront Mannheim.
Windleaf: Murdering wretch... All I have to say to you is prepare to die!
Mannheim: Oh bravo! Bravo!
No offence, boys, but the lady takes the prize! I felt shivers
there, honestly!
Stinger: Enough talk! Shut up and fight!
Mannheim: As you wish, but I didn't come unprepared.
I still have a couple of tricks up my sleeve...
Spot!
---- A large black flying monster appears.
Clemett: What now?
Mannheim: Sic 'em! HAHAHHAHAHAHHAHHAHA!
---- Battle.
Mannheim: I honestly don't believe it. You little imps are most impressive!
Stinger: You're next, pusbag. No more monsters to throw at us. Just us and
you.
Mannheim: No more monsters? Are you daft?
I've got monsters galore to throw at you!
Clemett: He's gonna bug out! Get him!
---- Mannheim starts to run away. He turns for a final comment.
Mannheim: See you in Wyldern... If you dare!
Rover, come!
---- Mannheim disappears into the save and a WingedStalker emerges.
---- Battle.
Windleaf: That cowardly wretch!
Stinger: Relax, Windleaf. We got his number. That's why he runs all the
time. Two-bit punk!
Clemett: Sooner or later, that loser's not gonna have a place to run.
Stinger: You know it.
Windleaf: Let's go get the others. We've got a murderer to catch.
---- The group reforms and are then shown back in Eyre.
--------------
Return to Eyre
--------------
Setting: The party are planning their next move and standing in the Recreation
area.
Stinger: Okay... It's agreed, then.
Windleaf, Jirina and I will form one group.
Xero, you and Clemett will form another.
Jirina: Each group will travel separately through the Tunnel into Wyldern.
We'll rendezous near the exit on the Wyldern side.
Xero: Right. From there, we'll get our bearings and set out toward Tyr
Og Nor.
Clemett: Sounds good to me, eh. Let's get moving!
Windleaf: Everyone be sure and stock up. Once we get down there, we'll be in
enemy territory.
Stinger: Right. There won't be a lot of friendly merchants on Hokum's turf.
Clemett: Got it, boss.
Stinger: Let's get some sleep and head out in the morning.
Windleaf: Good luck, everyone.
o--------------------------------o
| Choose your party: |
| Windleaf, Stinger, and Jirina |
| Xero and Clemett |
o--------------------------------o
-----------------
Back on the Jetty
-----------------
Setting: After an automatic rest and chance to save, whichever party is
selected will be shown on the jetty.
Xero: That was a good rest. Time to get busy!
---- The party climbs back up the ladders and enters the cave.
*******************************************************************************
************************* PLEASE INSERT DISC 2 ********************************
******************************************************************************
---------------------
The Tunnel to Wyldern
---------------------
Setting: Inside the Tunnel to Wyldern the group meets up at a place where the
path divides.
Stinger: This is it. From here we begin our assault!
Jirina: The creatures are growing fiercer, but they're no match for us.
Windleaf: We have all we need to crush the Darg and end this for good.
Stinger: We should travel in two parties. It's working good so far.
Clemett: Makes it hard for 'em to know where we are exactly. I like it.
Jirina: There are two roads leading to Tyr Og Nor. The Emperor's Road and
the Merchant's Path.
Each ends at Cyl Og Sul, a city at the base of Tyr Og Nor. We
should meet there.
Xero: Agreed.
Clemett: Sounds pretty easy.
Jirina: Not...exactly.
Stinger: What's that supposed to mean?
Jirina: It means that Hokum's forces have camps guarding both roads that
lead to Tyr Og Nor.
Along the Emperor's Road lies the old Council Building. It used to
be a centre of peace...
Windleaf: And now...?
Jirina: It's...not so peaceful.
Windleaf: Ah.
Clemett: What about the other one...Trader's Road...?
Jirina: Merchant's Path. It is home to a training camp for the Darglings.
Stinger: A bunch of green recruits? Shouldn't pose any problem.
Jirina: They will be led by crack troops...veterans. There lies the
challenge.
Xero: I see... It's never easy, is it?
Jirina: Hokum chose his lair well. Tyr Og Nor was Wyldern's Imperial seat
for centuries.
It never fell to siege, and can be adequately defended...
Clemett: It's about to get a black mark on its record, eh.
Stinger: Right! We'll deal with these army camps when we get to 'em.
Windleaf: Right now, I think we should rest up...prepare for the march.
---- The group rests.
Jirina: I'm ready for anything now.
Stinger: Let's get moving.
Xero: Seems like yesterday...I was a young officer, embarking on my first
sortie.
Now...as then...I'm nervous.
Stinger: Join the club!
Clemett: I think we're all jittery. The important thing is to shake it off
and move on.
Jirina: Wise words. Let us part now...united and strong.
Windleaf: We'll see you at the Crossroads.
o----------------------------------o
| Which party do you want to lead? |
| Windleaf, Stinger, and Jirina |
| Xero and Clemett |
o----------------------------------o
===============================================================================
33. WYLDERN AGAIN 0330
===============================================================================
---- Attempt to go down the tunnel in the centre of the screen.
Stinger: We've got a job to do. I'm not going back up that tunnel until
we've finished it!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Emperor's Road (The Big Mesa)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------
Bottom of the Cliff
-------------------
Setting: They arrive at a path after descending the ladders, and can see the
rock face where, behind the scaffolding, the carving of a face can be seen.
============================
Stinger, Windleaf and Jirina: if they are first.
============================
Stinger: Keerg's teeth!
Windleaf: Now there's a face only a mother could love.
Stinger: Maybe if she were blind...
Jirina: He...has defaced the monument to Emperor Orgran...
I swear, he'll suffer for this!
Windleaf: Talk about egomania! He probably would do the same thing in
Karillon...
Jirina: Fortunately for that proud city, Hokum's march ends here...
When this is done, I will see this atrocity is removed...if I ahve
to do it myself.
---- The party regroups.
---- If Stinger's group approach the Followers of Nagruk area.
Stinger: Wait a minute... This is no council building!!
================
Clemett and Xero: if they are first
================
Clemett: Will ya look at that?
Xero: I've heard of egomania before, but this is absurd!
Clemett: What kind of pompous ass carves a statue of his FACE in the sdie of
a hill?!?
Xero: A very powerful, insane one... One who wants to pick a fight...
Clemett: Yeah?
Xero: Certainly...such an arrogant display is bound to infuriate every
Wyldernian who sees it.
Clemett: You got a point there, Head.
Xero: We'd better get moving... We've a long ways to travel yet.
Clemett: Right. So long, ugly! May all the pigeons in Wyldern use you as a
toilet!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. The Council Building 0332
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
===============================================================================
Stinger's Group: Emperor's Road
===============================================================================
------------
The Entrance
------------
Setting: Outside the main door to the building, they stop to talk.
Jirina: These so-called warriors have no honour. They have defiled the
Council Building.
I will make them pay for thier insolence!
Windleaf: Hey, wait a minute, Jirina. We can't just go charging headlong
into a fight!
We need to think about this for a minute first, OK?
Stinger: Yeah, Jirina, what is it that Xero always says...?
Discretion before valor...soemthing like that...
Jirina: NO! I will not let these swine tarnish thsi noble place any more.
Look at what they have done!
Windleaf: I can see. I'm just saying there might be a lot of them...
Jirina: They are lazy, slothful, uncouth cretins.
We will make a fulll frontalassault and rout them before they have a
chance to organise!
Stinger: Worked in the Mines, Windleaf... These darlings aren't exactly
crack troops.
Windleaf: Who knows what we're up against HERE, though?
We're close to Hokum... He might have elite troops here!
Jirina: Elite troops are not slovenly, ill-kept vermin. This is the work
of rabble, the rank and file.
---- A guard emerges from the door.
Guard: Well, what 'ave we 'ere? A waif and a couple of pretty things!
C'mere, you guttersnipes! There's work to be done.
Stinger: Why is it that everyone thinks we're the hired help?
Guard: Mustn't keep m'lord Mannhein waiting! He's a touch nasty when his
food isn't ready on time.
Jirina: Mannheim?!? Here?
Stinger: Still think we need to wait around Windleaf?
Windleaf: Well...
Jirina: Enough talk. Attack!
Guard: Attack? Huh...?
Stinger: Here we go!
Guard: Oh, no! The Org-Ta! Alarm! Alarm!
---- Battle.
Windleaf: Well, thanks for making up our minds for us, Jirina!
Jirina: They were enemies. It was unavoidable.
Stinger: Let's move before they can get organised!
---- The party regroups.
-------------
Main Entrance
-------------
Setting: Inside the doors there is a small entrance hall with two Darg Org and
blood on the floor and doors. There are three skeletons on the wall.
Jirina: There's only two of them! Quickly!
Guard: Yeah, yeah...quickly! Me boots need a shine!
Trooper: Oy! I outrank you! Do my boots first!
Stinger: What the...?
Guard: Right then, but I gets the pretty one!
Trooper: Oh, no ya don't! I gets to go first AND I gets the pretty one!
Guard: But you always get the best...
Trooper: "Rank hath its privileges." Damon Hokum, 454 PD.
Guard: And he has such a pretty mouth...durn it all!
Stinger: Hold on...did you just say HE has a pretty mouth?!?
Guard: Aye...and such lovely golden hair...sigh...
Windleaf: Hee hee hee! Those are your best features, Stinger...
Jirina: Oh, I agree.
Stinger: Laugh it up, metalhead...Or did you forget they just told us to
shine their boots?
Jirina: ... Wait. You're right. DEATH TO THE OPPRESSOR!
Stinger: Yeah! What she said!
Windleaf: You are a vindictive snipe sometimes, you know that?
Stinger: One of my best features...
---- Battle
Stinger: Eww...can't believe that guy thought I as pretty...
Jirina: It gets mighty lonely in the military.
Windleaf: Speaking from experience...?
Jirina: Don't think I won't hit you because you're a woman...
Stinger: Okay, okay...claws in, eyes forward...focus on the mission, girls...
Jirina: Witch.
Windleaf: Cow.
Stinger: (sigh)
---- The party regroups. Check the skeletons.
Stinger: It's either an oversight on the part of the caretakers here,
or...these 'guys' are some kind of warning...
-------
Hallway
-------
Setting: A short hallway with a grand door that is shut at one end, and two
more Darg Org guards.
Guard: Ah! You louts must be the new servants!
Trooper: Better work harder than the last bunch.
Guard: You may have seen 'em on the way in...they were the ones just
hanging around...
Trooper: Har, har, har! yer the best, Durek!
"Hanging around!" Har, har, har!
---- Stinger turns to talk to the other two.
Stinger: (Hang on guys, I think this bunch is drink!)
Jirina: (Let's try to bluff our way past them.)
Guard: Oy! Hope to it, you dogs!
Mannheim is up top, an' he don't like ta be kept waiting!
Trooper: Fetch him some supper, and don't be lollygagging, or it'll be your
hides!
Jirina: Grrrr...
---- Windleaf walks forward to speak.
Windleaf: (Ssh!) Er...Right away, milord!
Guard: Right! Off with ya, then. Get to the kitchen and get busy!
Trooper: Mannheim likes his meat bloody and rare, don'tcha forget that!
Stinger: Right you are, sir! Er...let's go, fellow slaves!
---- They join up and go through the door into a larger hallway.
---------------
Main Ball Room
---------------
Stinger: Suckers!
Jirina: What did I tell you? Dim and gullible!
Windleaf: Don't pat yourself on the back too hard, Jirina. You might damage
your dorsal fin.
Stinger: All right, you in your corner, you in yours.
Jirina: We'll settle this later.
---- They join together again.
----------
Grand Hall
----------
Setting: A hallway with one large door flanked by blueish mushrooms.
o--------------------------o
| Fungi, of the species |
| 'milfetica havacouicus.' |
o--------------------------o
--------------------------------
Hallway at the Top of the Stairs
--------------------------------
Setting: An L shaped hallway with damaged pictures and furniture.
---- Check the pictures and mushrooms
o-----------------------------o
| A map of the picnic grounds |
| in Wyldern. |
o-----------------------------o
o------------------------------o
| A bunch of rotting 'shrooms. |
o------------------------------o
o---------------------------o
| 'Still-life with fungus,' |
| By Dylor Moos |
o---------------------------o
---------
Courtyard
---------
Setting: They are outside in an area with strange plants and some more
buildings to the right.
----- Check the plants.
o---------------------------o
| Curious plant. |
| Requires no nutrients,
| water or lgiht to thrive. |
| Of the species 'raibletum |
| ricues.' |
o---------------------------o
----------------------
Tranquillity Fountain
---------------------
Setting: A large circular green glowing fountain only there is no water.
There is a strange statue in the centre.
Stinger: What an awful place... It's like something from a childhood
nightmare...
----
Lair
----
Setting: A round building with a green monster.
Vrita: KREE!
Where is my food, you pieces of offal?
Or are YOU to provide nourishment for my little ones?
Stinger: Nourishment?!? Can't say I like the sound of that!
Jirina: Creature! Where is your master? We seek Mannheim!
Vrita: KREE! I am the Vrita! I answer to no master!
Stinger: Well, now that we've got that out of the way, where's Mannheim,
dingbat?
Vrita: You talk too much for food! KREE!
Windleaf: She mentioned little ones...
Jirina: What? She has guardians? I cannot see them!
Vrita: Mannheim led you to me. A reward for service. Food for my infants.
I will snap your bones like twigs and feast on your marrow! KREE!
Stinger: Keerg's blood! It's a trap! We fell into a stinking trap!
Windleaf: I TOLD you we should have been more careful!
But oh no, no! No one listens to little Windleaf any more!
Jirina: Cease your whining. An enemy lurks. We must be prepared.
Vrita: KREE!
Windleaf: WHINING?!?! You metal-faced cow! I ought to...
Vrita: KREE! FOOD! Stop this squeaking! It upsets my stomach to hear
you blabber so!
Stinger: Look, ladies... We've got a pregnant...whatever here, about to chow
down on us...
Windleaf: So?
Jirina: What of it?
Stinger: Could you save the cat fight for later? Please?
Jirina: As you say, warbrother.
---- They turn back to face the enemy.
Jirina: Foul one! I will rip your eggs from your womb with my bare hands!
I will smash them before your eyes as you lay dying!
Vrita: KREE! KREE!
Stinger: That's more like it...
---- Windleaf turns to face Jirina again.
Windleaf: Jirina!
Don't you know how animals are when you threaten their children?
They fight with even greater ferocity!
Jirina: Precisely! I would expect no less from an enemy.
Let her die angry, my name upon her hateful lips! For the Org=Ta!
Vrita: KREE!
---- Battle.
Stinger: I swear, you two are gonna get us killed some day!
Windelaef: US two?!? What about you, mister "frontal assault"?
Stinger: Hey, that was her idea. I just went along with it!
Windleaf: Oh, so your her little yes-man now, eh?
Stinger: Listen, sister...
Jirina: Both of you...be silent. Please.
Stinger: ...
Windleaf: She said "please"...
Jirina: I feel we have been deceived. I do not believe Mannheim is present.
Stinger: Yeah...me too.
Jirina: If that is so, then he is undoubtedly on his way to his master.
Windleaf: Hokum...
Stinger: We'd better get going. The others might be in Cyl Og Sul by now.
Jirina: If so, they will have secured a haven for us. They are...
resourceful.
Windleaf: Right. Let's get moving.
Stinger: Glad to put that place behind us...now let's get moving.
We've got a date with the others to keep!
---- The party regroups.
---- Try to return to the Council Building.
Stinger: No... We must press on!
===============================================================================
Xero's group, Emperor's Road
===============================================================================
------------
The Entrance
------------
Xero: I say, old man, what manner of ramshackle hovel is this?
Clemett: Well, Jorona said there was a "council building" down here...I
figure this is it.
Looks like the Hokumers trashed the place pretty good, eh?
Xero: Quite. A pity, you know.
The architecture is, I mean was, quite remarkable.
Reminds me of a country pub that served a fine...
Clemett: Stop that, stop that! Always blabbering about "the old days". Bah!
Xero: How decidedly uncouth of you. You really should be a tad more
patient.
Clemett: Got no time for manners, Head.
There'll be time enough for pleasantries after we torch this hole.
---- A guard emerges from the door.
Guard: What the...?
Hokum's liver, just how much hooch did I down last night?
I...I must be seein' things... A flyin' head and a Gadgeteer... Ohh,
I need another drink!
Xero: This old sid is in his cups. Shall we "pour him another"???
Guard: Wha...the head speaks?!?
Ohh, Mannheim'll have my...uh...head...if he finds out there be
talkin' and flyin' heads about!
Clemett: Mannheim's here, eh? ALl the better for us, Head!
Xero: Smashing! Fortune smiles on us once again.
Guard: Bwwuuuuh! Gotta do somethin'! Aaaaaarrgh!
CLemett: Fortune, in this sace has one ugly smile...
---- Battle.
Clemett: We better get moving. Mannheim might bolt if he finds out we're
here.
Xero: Bloody coward that he is... Let's go!
---- They join together again.
-------------
Main Entrance
-------------
Nothing
-------
Hallway
-------
Setting: A short hallway with a grand door that is shut at one end, and tow
more Darg Org guards.
Guard: Ah! You louts must be the new servants!
Trooper: Better work harder than the last bunch.
Guard: You may have seen 'em on the way in...they were the ones just
hanging around...
Trooper: Har, har, har! yer the best, Durek!
"Hanging around!" Har, har, har!
---- Xero turns to talk to Clemett.
Xero: (I say, old man... These fools are smashed too!)
(We needn't muss our hands if we play along with them.)
Clemett: (Okay, Head, but only 'cause I like you...)
Xero: Er, righto! We're ready to serve, sir!
Clemett: That's us, ready to serve...
Guard: Guard: Oy! Hope to it, you dogs!
Mannheim is up top, an' he don't like ta be kept waiting!
Trooper: Fetch him some supper, and don't be lollygagging, or it'll be your
hides!
Clemett: Supper it is! Coming right up!
Xero: We'll give Lord Mannheim a suppoer he'll nver forget!
---- They join up and go through to the next hall.
Clemett: Looks like they fell for it.
Xero: For now...let's hope their wits stay dull...
It won't take much brainpower or them to figure out that you and I
spell "trouble."
Clemett: Hah! Good thing the only brains around here are in our skulls,
then.
Xero: Quite. Let's move out.
---- They join together again.
----
Lair
----
Setting: A round building with a green monster.
Vrita: KREE! I see Mannheim was right after all.
The heroes come to me like moths to a flame.
Xero: Good lord, what in bloody hell is this?
Clemett: She ain't Queen Tulia, that's for sure, Head!
Vrtia: KREE! Your soft, pulpy entrails will make ny little ones very
happy!
I will dine on your gut and make them grow! KREE!
Clemett: Then again, maybe she is a queen, in a weird animalistic sort of
way...
Xero: Quite right. A very pregnant one, at that.
Clemett: Ugh...
Vrita: KREE! The Vrtia needs food! Come! I will eat your eyes and
brains and...
Clemett: Hey! Dingbat!
Vrita: Eh...?
Clemett: We get the point. you're hungry.
---- He raises and drops his arms.
Come here and chew on some of this, if you're so damn hungry!
Xero: Oh, dear... Let the taunting begin...
Vrita: What feast do you offer, fleshbag?
Clemett: Why, my Multicannon, of course! Comes in all sorts of flavours!
Explosive, Armour-Piercing, Burning...
Xero: Oh, Burning! That's a jolly good flavour! Most savoury indeed!
Vrita: I find your babble tedious and boring! I desire sustenance!
Xero: Well, that was rather abrupt. Not much of a witty retort at all!
Clemett: What do {you} expect from a low-rent piece of trash like that, Head?
Vrita: KREE! DIE!
---- Battle.
Xero: I daresay we'ver been had, old man. If Mannheim ever was here, he's
long gone by now.
Clemett: As usual. Let's get out of this dump.
The others are probably already in Cyl Og Sul by now.
Xero: Well, let's hope if they are they've found safe haven.
Clemett: I'll drink to that.
Xero: Glad to put that place behind us...now let's get moving.
We've got a date with the others to keep!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. Cyl Og Sul
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
===============================
Stinger's Group: Emperor's Road
===============================
-----------
The Village
-----------
Setting: They enter the village from a blue lit opening. There are a number
of low buildings.
Stinger: Well, here we are... No sign of the others. (Xero)
---- A child called Bobul approaches the group.
Bobul: Nnnoooooo! Mercy!
Stinger: Settle down... No one's going to hurt you...
Bobul: Tell that to THEM...
---- Two Deathbots walk up from the left and stop in front of the group.
Deathbot: Organics! Bow down before the ones you serve.
Stinger: What the...
Bobul: RUN! They'll kill you if you just stand here!
Deathbot: Failure to comply with orders is a crime. Sentence is 10 years
labour.
Stinger: Where did Hokum get a hold of robots?!
---- Bobul walks to safety behind Jirina.
Bobul: You guys are either tough or stupid...
Deathbot: Continued disobedinece is a crime.
There will be death.
---- Battle.
Stinger: Did you hear what it said? "There will be death."
Bobul: They all say that... Stupid metal bullies...
Thanks! If you're smart, you'll leave now!
---- He runs off.
Stinger: Kid might have a point. But...duty calls.
---- They regroup.
-----------------
Samelon's Saucery
-----------------
Setting: This is what was once a pub, and there is liquor dripping from a
broken bottle and smashed up tables and chairs. There is one blue skinned Org.
Stinger: Somebody or...something...obviously didn't care for this pub...
---- Check the bar area.
o--------------------------o
| The Sauce (R) |
| Finest hooch in the Cyl. |
| Also good as house-hold |
| cleaner and degreaser. |
| (Bottles empty.) |
o--------------------------o
Samalon: Hic! Whasshup?
Stinger: You okay...?
Samalon: Oh jushh fine. Fine...
Doubleplush-good and fine! Hic!
My kegs and bottles are dry as bones...
Stinger: There's more ot life than booze...
Samalon: Eashy for YOU t'shay! Th' only reashon I'm shtill alive is cause o'
the booze!
When Hokumsh boysh figger out I'm dry...I'm a deader fer shure!
Stinger: I...see. I'd find a place to hide!
Samalon: Heh. Where?! Hic! Th' while damn townsh been thrashed!
No...I think I'm goin' down defnedin' whatsh mine.
Those scumbags will know they've been in a fight!
Stinger: ... As you wish.
---- Speak to him again.
Samalon: Won't be long now... For all of ush...
--------------
The Green Exit
--------------
Stinger: Hmm...I'm thinking this goes into Tyr Og Nor.
Best to find the others first. Plenty of time for this later!
---------------------
The Inn at Cyl Og Sul
---------------------
A smashed up inn reception with broken stairs and counter.
Stinger: This...might have been an inn...
Doubt anyone but the rats sleep well here now.
---- Check the broken bed.
Stinger: Mighty appealing looking, this bed...
---------------
The North Tower
---------------
Setting: There are two Darg Orgs having a discussion. The place looks half
trashed with various purple round things on the ground.
Sergeant: ...so I says, "We should be at the front, not guarding a bunch of
dimps!"
Trooper: Right you are, Sarge...eh?
Stinger: Excuse me...? Is the lady of the house present?
---- They turn to face Stinger.
Trooper: Ain't them the spugs from the wanted posters?
Stinger: Ah! Good day madam. Can I interest you in some fine perfume?
Sergeant: It's them, all right. Git 'em! We'll get the bounty!
Trooper: We'll be rich!
Stinger: Perfectly good banter... Wasted on you apes! Sigh!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Great. Now there's a price on our heads.
Every dumb stump of a monster's on the hunt for us now...
-----------
The Village
-----------
Setting: A step to the right of the Tower and Bobul appears from the right
hand building.
Stinger: Getting a little worried...
This town is thick with enemies, and there's still no sign of the
others.
---- Bobul suddenly appears.
Bobul: Hey! You! Psst!
Stinger: It's that kid!
Bobul: Come with me! Hurry before the sentries spot you!
Stinger: Could be a trap...
Bobul: Come on! Hurry!
Stinger: ALl right... If this is a trap...
Bobul: You can kill me first, okay? Now come on!
---- The screen goes black and the party appears inside a church.
-----------
The Chantry
-----------
Setting: A large church with a couple of dead Deathbots, and tumbled pews.
Light comes from a stained glass window.
Tarrach: Thank you, Bobul.
I am Tarrach the priest of this church. Allow me to welcome you.
Stinger: It's good of you to help out...thanks.
Tarrach: It's the least we can do.
Make yourself at home. Rest...from what I hear, you need it.
o----------------o
| Back on top |
| of the Mesa... |
o----------------o
============================
Xero's group, Emperor's Road
============================
ALl the dialogue is identical, except with either Xero or Clemett as pointman.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iv. The Merchant's Path 0334
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Whichever group takes this Path, there is no dialogue on the descent of the Big
Mesa.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
v. The Followers of Nagruk (Merchant's Path)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
===============================================================================
Xero's group, Merchant's Path
===============================================================================
--------------------
Followers of Nagruk
--------------------
Setting: After walking down the Big Mesa and travelling to the right map, Xero
and Clemett arrive at the Camp. A Dar Org Sergeant is berating two recruits.
Xero: (uh oh...)
Sarge: You pansies! Your grandmothers could keep a faster pace!
---- They continue walking away from the party.
Sarge: You sissies are going to be cleaning the latrine with your tongues
when we get back to camp.
---- They continue walking off the screen.
Sarge: When I say move I mean MOVE!
Xero: Hokum's elite forces, no doubt!
--------------
General Nagruk
--------------
Setting: At the end of the long path they find Nagruk with some prisoners and a
soldier at a grassy area.
Nagruk: The woman will do nicely. Take her to the barracks.
This one... Tch tch...kill him.
---- The soldier walks away with one of the prisoners and a scream is
heard.
Xero: You pretentious bloody swine!
Nagruk: Ah, and what have we here?
Arkosians. Come to join the forces?
---- He walks to one side to see the party better.
Nagruk: Or perhaps you will join those who have proven weak.
Clemett: Aye, I'll be seeing you join the ranks of hell!
Nagruk: Ha! I've been to hell, creature. I've taken all it had to give.
I have returned...
CLemett: Don't get too comfortable... You're on your way back!
Xero: A one-way trip, I might add.
Nagruk: Bah! Your skulls yap far too much. Time to silence them!
---- Battle.
Maye: Bless you! I am forever in your debt!
Xero: We're only glad to help. Travel safely.
There may be other Followers in the hills!
---- Maye leaves to the northern path.
Xero: Not much further now...
Let's not keep the others waiting...or Hokum, for that matter!
---- The screen goes black and they are shown on the world map.
---- Attempt to return to the camp.
Xero: Our destiny lies in another place...like Cyl Og Sul...
===============================================================================
Stinger's Group: Emperor's Road
===============================================================================
The dialogue will be the same whenever it is just one person involved, but when
the party divides there are differences.
--------------
General Nagruk
--------------
Setting: At the end of the long path they find Nagruk with two prisoners and a
soldier at a grassy area. There are four heads on poles.
Nagruk: The woman will do nicely. Take her to the barracks.
This one... Tch tch...kill him.
---- The soldier walks away with one of the prisoners and a scream is
heard.
Jirina: You pig!
Nagruk: Ah, and who do we have here?
---- He walks forwward to inspect the two girls who are standing infront
of Stinger. First he checks out Jirina...
Nagruk: You'll make a fine addition to my serving wenches.
Strong bones, I see. Good muscle tone...
We'll need to get rid of that garish face-plate, though. It's a
bit much, I think.
Jirina: It'll be the last thing you see, Toparri mongrel!
Nagruk: And who is this fine young lass?
A little skinny, perhaps. Nothing a few good meals won't fix!
Windleaf: How dare you!
Nagruk: These skulls belonged to liile girls like you who did not hold their
tongues.
Nagruk: Care to join them?
Stinger: Don't count on it, pretty boy!
Nagruk: How cavalier! Come then, O knight! COme and defend thier honour!
Stinger: Come on, girls... let's show plant-boy how we deal with bigmouth
darglings!
---- Battle.
The rest of the talking is the same as before.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
vi. Cyl Og Sul (Merchant's Path)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
===============================================================================
Xero's group, Merchant's Path
===============================================================================
-----------
The Village
-----------
Setting: They arrive at a blue lit southern entrance to the village.
Xero: This is it... Looks pretty deserted.
Let's have a look around.
---- Clemett stands next to Xero and two enemies emerge from the building
opposite.
Xero: Uh, oh... Not as deserted as I thought...
Officer: Look!
Sargeant: It's Xero and the rest!
Xero: They know my name?!
Officer: Bring me their heads! Attack!
Sargeant: By your command! For Hokum!
Xero: Great...
---- Battle.
Xero: Looks like we've made a reputation for ourselves. Let's stay
sharp...
---- They join together again.
--------------
The Millhouse
-------------
Setting: There is a wheel in the middle of a circular room.
Deathbot: Alert. Hostiles in area.
Trooper: It's them! Xero and the posse!
Deathbot: Lethal force is authorised. Terminate all targets. Let there be
death.
Trooper: I'm a' gonna make a necklace outta yet teeth...ears...naughty bits!
Xero: You two don't get out much, do you?
---- Battle.
Xero: Better get moving.
When these two show up missing, the patrols will double...at least.
---- Check the sacks
o------------------------------o
| COS, Inc. |
| Fruit of the Moss (R) |
| High-fiber sort-rolled moss. |
o------------------------------o
-----------
Empty House
----------
Setting: An empty house with broken furniture.
---- Check the ladder or tumbled furniture.
o-------------------------o
| Obvious signs of a |
| nasty brawl...or worse. |
o-------------------------o
-------------------
Remains of a Smithy
-------------------
Setting: The place is in ruins and smoke still shows from a fire. There is an
Org woman there.
Teena: Get away from me!
And here I'd thought I'd seen every stinking monstrosity Hokum had
ever made...
Xero: Relax... We're here to help...
Teena: You're a tad late, then!...
If you haven't noticed, the whole area's been smashed to bits.
Xero: At least you survived!
Teena: Barely. Not gonna tell ya how I did it, though.
Xero: Fair enough.
Teena: Tell me...I've overheard the troopers say that the 'enemy' is
marching on Cyl Og Sul.
Xero: That's right...
Teena: Please tell me you aren't...it?
Xero: Er, not exactly. We're here to finish Hokum.
Teena: ... Did I hear you correctly? Finish Hokum...?
Xero: That's right.
Teena: Hahahahahaha!
I've heard it all now.
Xero: At least you're smiling...
Teena: Yes...and for that I'll do you a favour.
I was a smith before Hokum decided to turn the town into a crater.
Take these... You'll need them!
o-------------------o
| Received weapons! |
o-------------------o
Xero: Thank you...
Teena: Thank me by putting as many of those into the heads of as many of
Hokum's men as you can.
Xero: We'll do our best.
---- Speak to her again.
Teena: Hello. I've no more goodies, I'm afraid. No more war toys.
All I have are prayers...for your success.
-----------
South Tower
----------
Setting: A table, chair and bed are here, and an Org called Paladin.
Paladin: So! You've finally found me!
Are you prepared to meet your maker, Darglings?
Xero: Take it easy. We're not with the enemy...
My name;s Xero. This is...
Paladin: Xero, did you say?
Xero: Yes...
Paladin: Say no more. Your name is on the lips of every trooper around...
yours, and your friends.
Xero: Is that so?
Paladin: Indeed. You're quite infamous, my friend.
Hokum has a bounty on your heads. 1000 Hexite and climbing.
Xero: Each...or altogether?
Paladin: Each! I'm offended, actually. They only want 500 for me.
Xero: Who are you?
Paladin: I am Ribon, Paladin of House Hagwitra.
These ruins used to be my home...
Xero: Are there more like you around?
Paladin: A few. We hide in the ruins...attacking when possible.
It is ...cowardly, but effective.
Xero: Well, as long as you're thinning the head, we're not going to
criticise your technique!
Paladin: Ha! Well said, friend.
What brings you to the City of Sorrows?
Xero: We're here to finish off Hokum for good.
Paladin: Oh, really? Hah!
You ARE mad! I've heard the rumours, of course, but I chalked them
up to wishful thinking...
Xero: Mad or not, we're going to do it.
Paladin: I see. Myself, I'm thinking of leaving.
You made it in...I can make it out. hook up with the Banori,
perhaps.
Xero: They can use the help. Lord Dashau will probably strike soon...
Paladin: Good! I work better in an army than alone...
Xero: Good luck, Ribon.
May your path end in victory, friends!
---- He leaves the building.
Xero: Too bad...we could use someone with local knowledge.
---------
Laboratory
----------
Setting: There are some shelves dripping green liquid and Myssa, a female
scientist.
Myssa: Steaming piles of dung!
Xero: Hmm. Been called worse...
Myssa: Wait a minute... You aren't Hokumers...
Xero: That's right.
Myssa: Great! Are you a vanguard? Are the rumours true? Are the Banori
and Org-Ta coming?
Xero: Yes...and no.
Myssa: Yes to which?
Xero: Yes, the rumours are true. No, we're not the vanguard...not
officially, anyway.
Myssa: So you're scouts, then.
Xero: More like assassins.
Myssa: Come again?
Xero: Never mind... Probably better you don't know.
Myssa: Works for me.
Xero: What about you?
Myssa: I'm a scientist... Well, I was...
My comrades and I made a stand...
We made a rather nice cannon and fired it at Tyr Og Nor a few dozen
times.
Xero: And...?
Myssa: We made a lot of noise and debris, and Hokum sent a few hundred
...things down to stop us.
I played dead and managed to get away.
Xero: At least you tried! You lived. You can fight again.
Myssa: Oh, yeah. Little me against a demigod.
Xero: That's not stopping us.
Myssa: ... Right. Well, that's your problem. I'm outta here.
Xero: I'd think about that. The streets are crawling with...things.
Myssa: Ah. Them. Right. Good point.
I think I'll slip out when it's safer.
Xero: Excellent idea.
---- Speak to her again. And check the shelves.
Myssa: Hope I can hold out until the Banori get here.
o-----------------------o
| Chemicals-in-a-mess. |
| Highly reactive. |
| Do not ingest. |
o-----------------------o
-----------
The Village
-----------
Setting: Move towards the larger red building (the church, in fact).
Xero: This town's a mess!
Hope the others are here...otherwise...
---- A small figure appears in the yellow light from the red building.
Raina: Psst! Hey!
Xero: Huh...?
Raina: Di'nt you hear me? I said PSSSSSST!
Xero: We heard... Just a little surprised...
Raina: Sorry... You gotta come in here!
Xero: Come again...?
Raina: Hurry, before the metal men come!
Xero: Good idea... The metal men are no fun.
Raina: I'll say! Come on!
---- The screen goes black and the party are now inside the church.
===============================================================================
Stinger's Group: Merchant's Path
===============================================================================
Apart from the fact that when the guards mention names they say "Stinger"
instead of "Xero" all the dialogue is the same.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Chantry: Friends Reunited!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: There are a couple of broken deathbots on the floor and an altar at
the far end. Tarrach is waiting for them.
Tarrach: Greetings, gentle beings.
I am Tarrach, the priest of this church. I bid you welcome.
Xero: Thanks for letting us in here... we could use a safe haven.
Tarrach: Indeed.
You are not the only ones.
Xero: Oh?
Tarrach: Yes. There are others present in need of shelter. I believe you
know them...
---- The screen goes black and now all the group are in the church.
Stinger: So...we all made it. Excellent!
Windleaf: We have Tarrach to thank for this safe haven.
Tarrach: Think nothing of it, friends. Our home is yours.
Jirina: Now that we're all here...we need to plan our attack.
Stinger: I've been waitin' for this for a long time.
Xero: As have I. There shall finally be a reckoning!
Windleaf: Let's not get too hasty. We still need to deal with Hokum...
Clemett: And Mannheim... Not to mention about a zillion monsters...
Jirina: We'll manage.
Stinger: Our first step will be getting into Tyr Og Nor...
Tarrach: Er...excuse me...
---- They all turn to face him where is he standing in front of the an
altar.
Windleaf: Yes?
Tarrach: I believe I can be of service.
I am often called upon to perform...burial 'rituals' within the
fortress.
Digging mass graves is more like it...
Jirina: You are familiar with it's layout, then?
Tarrach: Only the lower levels...Hokum won't allow outsiders past mid-point.
However...there's someone here who knows a way into the upper
levels.
Xero: That is...?
Tarrach: Raina.
Clemett: That little girl?!
Tarrach: Yes. She was once one of Hokum's favourites.
She escaped through the...er...toilet shaft.
It runs the length of Tyr Og Nor.
Stinger: Getting a kid through there is one thing. We're a little larger...
Tarrach: It's quite large...big enough for a child, a tight fit for an adult.
Clemett: You been in there?
Tarrach: Yes...I had to fetch Bobul from it once. He...was going to go after
Hokum himself.
Xero: You're kidding!
Tarrach: I'm afraid not. I caught him on the fourth level, knife in his
teeth, covered in...grime.
Clemett: I love this kid...
Tarrach: Needless to say, I managed to squeeze into the shaft and drag a
squirming child out of it.
Stinger: It's just insane enough to work...
I mean, who the hell around here wants to get INTO that place?
Tarrach: Very few, I assure you.
Clemett: Great. So we'll all just crawl in through the sewer...
Jirina: No. Staying together is a bad idea.
Clemett: It is?!
Jirina: Yes. They are bound to expect...something. Troops are looking for
us.
Stinger: You're right. They know we're coming...
Windleaf: They just don't know when...or how.
Xero: We must confuse them... Disrupt their plans...
Jirina: If one group were to enter the lower level, they could create a
distraction...
Stinger: While the other group sneaks up to the top levels and takes care of
business.
Xero: It's risky...but what hasn't been so far?
Tarrach: I believe I can help with getting into the lower level.
I have yet to make my weekly rounds to minister to the sick and
dead.
Jirina: The Decoy group can enter with the priest, then.
Stinger: Sounds good...now...who wants to do what?
Clemett: It only takes a couple of us to stir up trouble down below.
Jirina: We'll need our heaviest hitters to take out Hokum.
Stinger: Yeah...well, that ain't me. i;m just a guy with a sword...
Jirina: Sensible.
Clemett: Yeah...and I'm not the best against magic...
Jirina: Very well. I, Xero, and Windleaf will strike at Hokum.
Jirina: Clemett and Stinger will act as decoys.
Stinger: Me and Clemett...? Causing trouble...?
I reckon we can handle that just fine!
Clemett: More than that... It'll be a pleasure!
Jirina: It's settled. Let;s get some rest...
---- The screen goes black.
o-----------o
| Later... |
o-----------o
Xero: Hokum's bound to have guards...
Jirina: We may need to use trickery...pretend to surrender in order to get
close to him.
Xero: Hmm...too risky...they might just kill us on the spot...
---- Windleaf walks up to Clemett.
Clemett: Can't sleep, eh?
Windleaf: No... Too many nightmares...
CLemett: I can imagine.
Windleaf: What are you working on?
Clemett: This beat-up deathbot... It's of Gadgeteer design.
Windleaf: I wondered about that.
Clemett: Stand and Murph were probably responsible...before they bought the
farm.
Anyway...this one's not in bad shape...I might be able to fix it...
Windleaf: Um...that doesn't sound too safe...what if it attacks us?
Clemett: Well, it might... Bio-tech programming never was my specialty.
Windleaf: I have an idea!
Clemett: Go on...
Windleaf: What if you had a guaranteed chance of success?
Clemett: A mother-chip that wasn't programmed to kill us? Sure, that'd be
dandy...
But, as you can see, there aren't any of those here.
Windleaf: Yes there is. One. Right here.
Clemett: Looks like some kind of a power crystal... Where'd you get this?
Windleaf: It's Harv-5. Or, what's left of him.
Clemett: Put the bottle down, honey!
Windleaf: Urrrg! it was what they used to power him in the first place! What
gave him a personality, a soul...
That soul is still in there. Barely...but it's there.
Clemett: Magic...interfacing with tech...I dunno, girl...
Windleaf: Please try. I can help!
Clemett: Why not? Let's get started...
---- The screen goes black and now they are all standing around watching
Clemett.
Clemett: Well...here we go.
Jirina: Stand ready. If it reverts to it's original ways we'll all...
Stinger: We know the drill, Jirina.
Windleaf: Please...please let this work...
Clemett: On three...
One...
Stinger: Two...
Windleaf: Three!
---- Nothing happens.
Stinger: Aw, gods below!
Clemett: This isn't right. It should work!
Xero: You did your best, old man...
Jirina: Let's put this behind us... We need to be strong for what lies
ahead.
Windleaf: So...disappointing... Just wanted Harv-5 back too badly...
---- They turn their backs on the robot and then it moves, and first sits
up, and touches the rim of the hat, and then stands up wearing
Harv-5's straw hat!
Harv-5: Where...
o-----o
| !!! |
o-----o
---- They all turn back to see Harv-5.
Harv-5: Where...am I?
Stinger: Harv-5?! Is that you?
Windleaf: Are you...you know...I mean, is it you?
Harv-5: Indeed.
I am in a new body, though I retain my original programming and
memory core.
Some structural improvements it would seem, as well.
Clemett: He's Harv-5, alright!
Xero: Welcome back from the dead!
Jirina: Unbelievable.
Windleaf: I'm so happy to see you! I thought you were gone forever!
Harv-5: I remember an explosion...Searing heat...
Stinger: It's a long story, buddy.
Harv-5: They usually are. I trust we were successful.
Windleaf: Yes...thanks to you!
Harv-5: I am pleased.
Jirina: Well...we need to adjust our strategy somewhat...
Xero: I do believe fortune is smiling on us!
Harv-5: Whatever is needed of me, I am ready to assist.
---- The screen goes black.
o-----------------------------o
| After a lot of planning... |
o-----------------------------o
Jirina: So, it's settled.
Xero: Each team will have a balance of power and experience.
Stinger: Windleaf, Harv-5, and I will go for Hokum.
Jirina: Clemett, Xero, and I will enter the lower fortress with the priest.
Xero: Once inside, we will act as...decoys.
Clemett: We'll stick around as long as we can, then head back here.
Stinger: As will we, afterwards...
Windleaf: Good luck, everyone.
Harv-5: This plan seems risky, but I cannot come up with a satisfactory
replacement.
Stinger: Let's just hope lady luck will favour us today!
Jirina: May our path, all of our paths, end in victory!
---- The screen goes black and the choice of party appears.
o---------------------------------------o
| Your party must split up now. |
| Which team do you want to play first? |
| |
| Jirina, Clemett and Xero |
| Stinger, Windleaf and Harv-5 |
o---------------------------------------o
Stinger: Let's get busy!
---- Stinger's party regroups.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bromwell's Shop
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A building with broken walls and stuff all over the place.
Bromwell: Hhhheeeehhhhhhhh. Heh. Heh heh.
Stinger: You...all right, stranger?
Bromwell: Right as rain...
It might not look like it, but this is a store.
Welcome to Bromwell's Fine Goods!
Stinger: Excuse me, Sir, but...your store's trashed...
Bromwell: The name's Bromwell, gentle being! Of the Cyl Og Qar Bromwells,
mind you!
Stinger: ...
Bromwell: Finest goods in Wyldern for 13 generations!
Bromwell: See for yourself! Guaranteed quality!
---- Shows inventory.
Bromwell: There! You see? Nothing finer to be found!
---- Speak to him again.
Bromwell: Welcome to Bromwells! Please pardon the mess. We're remodelling!
Do come again.
===============================================================================
34. TYR OG NOR 0340
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. Jirina's Route 0341
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------
The Green Doorway
-----------------
Setting: The lower exit in Cyr Og Sul.
Clemett: Here it is. The gateway to Tyr Og Nor. Last chance to get
prepared!
Ready to go?
Yes
No.
#Select No.
Clemett: Let's look around. See if we can find some supplies...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First Level
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------
Green Sewer Area
----------------
Setting: A huge area where an unpleasant green light suffuses everything.
Clemett: Ugh. Stinks!
Fitting odour for Hokum's home...
Let's do this!
---- The group splits up to talk.
Tarrach: Well, my friends. This is as far as I go.
Jirina: Many thanks, priest. We are in your debt.
Tarrach: You've dark work to do, children of war's path. I leave you to it.
Clemett: Thanks. You'd better hustle...it's bound to get messy quick.
Tarrach: Accept only victory!
Xero: The mighty Tyr Og Nor...
Jirina: War's path has led me here...
I will make sure I do not waste my visit!
Clemett: I can get behind that notion. It's like I've said before...
I plan on dying boots on, gun blazing , and a smile on my face!
Xero: In many ways, this brings a sens of closure to a fight I started
centuries ago.
I'm eager to wrap this up for good.
Jirina: It's been an honour, war brothers. Let's show these mongrels how
war is waged!
---- They join together.
----------
The Office
----------
Setting: A room with a desk and chair and some shelves.
Boss: What the...? Who are you an' what are you doin' in MY office?!?
Jirina: You...you are not changed! You serve...willingly!
Boss: For that you get a gold star on your forehead, moron!
Jirina: Stinking traitor!
Boss: I don't have to listen to this, cave-trash!
Clemett: Oh, heck no. Why don't you do something stupid instead?
Boss: Hey! Batboy! What am I payin' you for? Make these clowns
dead...fast!
Xero: There you go. That's the answer!
Guard: Intruderssss! Now you ssshall tassste my wraaaath!
Clemett: Does it come in chocolate flavour? That's the best. eh.
Guard: Er...ehhhh...?
Boss: Hey! Brain dead! KILL 'EM, ALREADY!
---- Battle.
Boss: S...stay away from me!
Clemett: Not so tough without your pet creature, eh?
Jirina: I should cave your skull in, traitor.
Boss: I...I didn't have a choice! H...he needs some of us... Needs us to
run things!
The ones that he...changes...they got no head for figure...technical
stuff.
All they can do is fight!
Xero: Humph!
Clemett: So Hokum surrounds himself with idiots? Why should you help him?
Boss: Money...power...privilege...at first.
Then he found my family... Brought 'em here.
Jirina: He didn't kill them?
Boss: No...kept 'em here... Said they'd be safe... But when I tried to
run...
He killed my ma. Threatened to do the rest, too.
So I stay...I do what he says... Or else...they pay.
Jirina: Where are they now?
Boss: I...in the back room...over there...
Jirina: Get them.
---- He leaves the room and brings his wife and child back.
Clemett: Looks like he was telling the truth, eh.
Boss: This is my wife and kid. They're all I have left...
Jirina: Get out. Run. you'll only have this one chance.
Take them and get as far from here as you can.
Boss: You heard her! Go! Git!
---- His wife and child leave.
Jirina: Know this. If you should betray us...
We will hunt you down and kill you. No matter where you are.
Boss: I...I understand...I won't say a word!
Xero: See to it that you don't
Clemett: Get lost, scumbag...before we regret our kindness.
---- Boss leaves.
Clemett: I'm surprised, sweetcheeks. I thought you'd waste that loser.
Jirina: Don't call me sweetcheeks!
At any rate, such a wretch will pay for his crimes for the restof
his life.
Why shorten his pain?
Xero: Er...quite right.
Clemett: Brr. Remind me never to get on your bad side.
Jirina: If I need to remind you, it will be too late.
---- They regroup. Check the table and shelves.
o----------------------------o
| Work area. Table includes |
| calculating device, |
| writing instruments and |
| paper. |
o----------------------------o
Clemett: No. I'm not gonna do it. This just isn't the time to be reading
books.
---------
Safe Room
---------
Setting: Storage room situated to the left of the Office.
Clemett: Looks like the boss had quite a stash built up.
Xero: Hmm... Most of this is food...supplies...
Jirina: How long do you think he kept his family hidden here?
Xero: Hard to say... Months? Perhaps a year.
Clemett: Must have been tough for them...living here, in the middle of this
hellhole.
Jirina: We can use some of these things. Stock up...then move out.
Clemett: Hey...check this out... Some sort of key... Of a kind I don't
recognise...
o-------------------------------o
| Clemett finds the Master Key! |
o-------------------------------o
Xero: Hopefully this goes to a lock we need to open...
Clemett: Y'know...this place is pretty well seculded.
Feel like taking a break?
Yes
No
#Select Yes.
---- Check the crates and barrels.
o-------------------------o
| Almost empty food crate |
o-------------------------o
o--------------------o
| Almost empty water |
| barrels... |
o--------------------o
o----------------------------o
| Portable crate with handle |
| was obviously used to |
| transport food-stuffs. |
o----------------------------o
-------------
Guard Station
-------------
Setting: Two Orgs are talking in a room with a fire burning in the grate.
(One of them is drunk.) There are a table and chairs and some lockers. There
are also two Banori.
Guard: I don't care where you sleep so long as it ain't in here!
This is our space!
Trooper: We haaaave been asssssigned to thisss duty.
We willll have ssspace...one waaay or the otherrr.
Guard: That a threat...hih?
Clemett: Oh, don't mind us, girls. This sounds real important!
---- The two turn to see the party.
Trooper: Freeeezzze! You arrrre underrr arrrressst!
Clemett: That took FOREVER to spit out!
You should stick to things like "Kill!" and "Die!"
Guard: Ha ha ha! The rebel scum is right! Ha ha ha!
You shocktroops sure make lousy guards! Ho ho!
Trooper: Sssshhhhut yourrr hole, Org!
Xero: Oh, dear. Dissension in the ranks!
Trooper: Accurrrssed foesss! Preeeparre to die!
Jirina: Much better...!
---- Battle.
Jirina: With this kind of disorganisation and dissent...
...it's wonder Hokum has made it as far as he has.
Xero: The 'darlings' of my day were decidedly more efficient.
Clemett: 'Talk less, fight more,' I always say...
Jirina: Since when have you ever shut your mouth, even for a second?
Clemett: Since now! We have a diversion to make!
---- They join up again. Check the lockers and other things.
o--------------------------o
| Ripe-smelling lockers. |
| Apparently the guards |
| are not in the habit of |
| washing their codpieces, |
| etc. |
o--------------------------o
o------------------------o
| Obviously some kind of |
| torture-device. |
o------------------------o
---- Check the fire.
Clemett: Ouch!
---
Pub
---
Setting: A room with tables covered with goblets, barrels, and shelves. There
are a couple of Banori and a Darg Org guard.
Sergeant: Well, boys...I gots ta git back on duty.
Bartender: Take 'er easy, Sarge.
Trooper: Giiiive me anotherrrr. I thirrrssst!
Bartender: Keep yet wings on...eh?
Clemett: Looky here!
A bunch of pug-ugly goons with "kill me" tattooed on their
foreheads!
Guard: You'll pay for that one, smart arse!
Sergeant: By my warts! 'Tis them rebels th' Emp'ror wants so bad!
Xero: Ah, fame!
Jirina: You puny jackals have had your last ale!
Bartender: Hey! Take it outside, you hooligans! I just mended the place up
again!
Trooper: Hisssssssssssss! Attaaaaaaack!
Bartender: Noooo!
---- Battle.
Bartender: Oh, this will never do...
Jirina: You are not...brainwashed. You are normal?!
Bartender: Yeah, what of it?
Jirina: You sicken me... Willingly working for these monsters...
Bartender: Beats being wormfood, sister!
Clemett: I can put this cretin down, big gal...one shot...
Jirina: Bah! Save your shots for warriors...this one's not worth it.
Xero: Let's get moving...
---- They join up again. Speak to the Bartender.
Bartender: Back again to torment me?
Clemett: Answer my questions and you'll live.
Bartender: Ask away.
Clemett: Where can we find the largest number of enemy troops in here?
Bartender: That's easy... Level three...
Clemett: Which is where?
Bartender: Two floors up. It's where all the grunts live.
Past that, it's all Hokum territory.
Him and his senior staff live up on Level 4 up.
Clemett: Most generous of you. You will live.
Bartender: Whew...
Clemett: If you're wise, you'll get out of here.
Bartender: What, and get killed by the Banori? I know they're comin'!
Think I'll take my chances here!
Clemett: Suit yourself.
---- Speak to him again.
Bartender: You rebels are out of your heads...er...
I mean that in a nice way, of course...heh heh.
---- Check the barrels.
o---------------------o
| Green and red fruit |
| cider. 130 proof. |
o---------------------o
-------
Doorway
-------
Clemett: This better work, or we'll have to get creative...
o----------------------------------o
| The Master Key unlocks the door! |
o----------------------------------o
Clemett: Whew. We don't have time for creativity...
Xero: This level was pretty light on guards.
Jirina: Indeed. Our diversion hasn't been terribly significant...
Clemett: Well, then it looks like we need to rattle a few more cages!
---- He turns back to speak to them both.
Clemett: Shall we?
Xero: Jolly good. Let's continue our little walkabout!
Jirina: I've always wanted to visit this place. Why not?
---- They group together again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Second Area
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A large area with walkways above a lower level.
Xero: Gods above! What manner of place is this?!
Jirina: A place of pain... A place without hope.
Clemett: Hokum's kind of place... Let's shut it down.
---- They regroup. They climb down the ladder.
Clemett: Well, now we know where the noise is comin' from.
Xero: This is no time for jokes, old man.
Jirina: It's like the Hexite Mine...
Xero: Eh? What is?
Jirina: They had such torture pits there as well.
They made the...changed ones there .
Clemett: You think this is the same thing?
Jirina: I-I don't know. It could be...
Xero: It could also be a cruel prison.
CLemett: I'm not sure we should find out...
On one hand, we could find a bunch of hurtin' people...
Xero: The other, a legion of bloodthirsty enemies.
Jirina: In any event, we would be ill-prepared to deal with the situation.
For now...we must turn our backs...
Xero: I know this is hard for you...
Jirina: Worry not for me. I will find strength in this...
Strength to use against those who make such a place.
Clemett: Amen, sister. Let's get outta here...
---- The party joins together again.
-----------------------------
Torture Cells: Left Side Area
-----------------------------
Setting: Two guards are beating up a prisoner who is lying on the ground.
Guard: Get up, dog... Get up or the beating continues!
Jirina: KALEN!
Guard: Huh...?
Clemett: You know one of these guys?
Jirina: GET AWAY FROM HIM!
Clemett: Take that as a "yes"...
---- Battle
Jirina: Lie still, my brother. Your wounds are serious. Let us help...
Clemett: He's your brother? Whoa...
Xero: We can fix this in no time.
---- Xero cast a healing spell.
---- Kalen stands up.
Kalen: Uuuuh... My thanks to you...
Xero: Are you well...?
Kalen: Well enough. Who are you, stranger? Why are you here?
Clemett: We're with your sis, eh. We're here to put things right.
Kalen: Hah! You talk strange, but you have the bearing of a warrior.
Jirina: They are Org-Ta, Kalen...as I am.
Kalen: I always knew you'd follow my path, Jirina... Bloodsister
...warsister.
Jirina: The Org-Ta are strong, brother. Our time of vengeance is at hand.
Kalen: Ahhh... Long have I waited...
Jirina: We thought you were dead.
Kalen: Wished I was at times. They worked us harder here... Nothing like
the mines...
A man dropped, he was food for the creatures. No remorse...no
relief.
Xero: That time has passed. Now there will be a reckoning!
Kalen: I like this one. Even without a body, he's worth a legion of
Hokumers!
Clemett: He talks more than a legion does, too.
Xero: Humph!
Kalen: There are others below. Some will fight.
Jirina: Excellent.
Xero: I hate to mention this...but...the mission...
Kalen: Ah. The call of duty. Worry not.
I am Org-Ta. I shall manage.
Clemett: He's your brother, all right.
Kalen: You press on, allies. I shall free the workers...
We shall bring hell to the enemy!
Jirina: May your path end on victory, brother.
Kalen: Hah! LONG LIVE THE ORG-TA!!!
---- Kalen leaves and the group joins together again.
----------
Empty Room
----------
Setting: Apart from a small trough of possibly stinking water, there is
nothing but a few bits of old machinery in this room.
Clemett: Place looks pretty quiet.
Want to rest for a bit?
Yes
No
#Select Yes.
--------------
The Green Door
--------------
Setting: The group stop to talk in front of the half cirle green door at the
far end of this large area.
Clemett: Oh, for...! Another one of these special locks...
---- He turns his back on the door.
Clemett: Let's get outta here.
---- He starts to walk away.
Jirina: Wait...
We may have missed one of the guards.
Xero: Bloody hell! Here we go again...
---- Suddenly Mannheim appears in front of the door.
Mannheim: Looking for this?
Terribly sorry I couldn't met you at the door...
Xero: Oh, don't let it worry you, old man. We let ourselves in.
Mannheim: So I see.
This place has always had a vermin problem...tch!
Clemett: Hey, hornhead! Got a question for you!
Mannheim: Whatever do you want sweet boy?
Clemett: Just wonderin'...
You gonna run on us when we kick your ass this time?
Xero: Or will you stay and fight like a man for once in your misbegotten
existence?
Mannheim: Oh, my my ... After such a gracious invitation...how can I refuse?
Your pathetic crusade ends now. I'm going to kill you AND your
little friends upstairs...
Jirina: What?!
Mannheim: Oh, please. You think you're so clever!
I know all! And...
When I'm done with you, I plan on killing that vermin Hokum too!
Xero: Treacherous wretch! Some things never change!
Mannheim: When I'm emperor, I'll show this world what pain is all about!
People will think Hokum kindly in comparison to me!
Clemett: You gotta go through us first, bigmouth! Let's get it on!
Mannheim: Oooooh...let's!
---- Battle.
Mannheim: Eerrrrgh... You...filth! It can't end this way!
Xero: This should've happened long ago, traitor. Give my regards to the
gods!
Mannheim: Fah! MY LIFE...
---- The ground shakes.
Jirina: Did you hear something?
Mannheim: IS NOT YOURS TO TAKE...
---- There is another shaking and rumbling sound.
Clemett: ...uh oh...
Mannheim: ...OR GIVE!
---- Another shake and noise.
Xero: Run!
---- They run to the edge of the floor away from Mannheim, who explodes,
leaving behind his body, though his head survives and disappears.
Clemett: AAAAAAAGGGGGH!
Jirina: What a pathetic wretch.
Clemett: I HATE IT WHEN HE DOES THAT!
Xero: !!! Oh...oh my...
Clemett: What's the matter, Head? You hurt?
Xero: Oh, no, no...Quite the opposite, old man.
Xero: At long last... I shall be whole once more!
Jirina: Eh...? What is he babbling about?
Clemett: You got me, big gal.
---- Xero walks over to Mannheim's body and there is a flash of light
and he stands as a whole person.
Clemett: Yiiiiiiiii!
Jirina: What trickery is this?
Xero: Relax, dear girl. It's me!
Clemett: You...put your head on Mannheim's body...
Xero: And why not, old man? It IS my body, after all.
Clemett: You gotta be kidding.
Xero: I am quite serious. Mannheim, like myself, was a Magewarrior.
Both of our bodies were artificial...only our heads are of flesh and
blood.
Clemett: Right...but how does that explain him having YOUR body?
Xero: Ah, yes. That.
You see...both of us were punished by our king long ago.
Him for treason... Myself for...cowardice.
Jirina: I find THAT hard to believe.
Xero: It's a long story...
Suffice it to say that the penalty for our crimes was beheading...
Clemett: Eeww.
Xero: Once beheaded, we were imprisoned...for a year and a day.
The kingdom fell to the Darg during that time. We were forgotten.
Jirina: How...gruesome.
Xero: Somehow...Mannheim was revived before me...
My guess is that his body was destroyed...but mine was not.
Clemett: So Hornhead took your bod, and left you to rot... Typical.
Xero: So it would seem. But now...all is right!
...except for these rotting clothes.
If you'll pardon me one moment.
---- The screen goes black for a few seconds. Xero then appears wearing
purple and red clothes.
Xero: There. I am whole again!
Jirina: And rather dashing, I must say.
Xero: Oh, my dear... If I were but a century younger...
Clemett: Yeah, yeah, yeah... You got the key, Head?
Xero: Indeed I do, old man.
Clemett: Then let's use it and move out!
If Mannheim knows about us...then Hokum does too.
Jirina: You're right! We must help the others...somehow.
Xero: Right! Let's go!
---- Xero walks to the door and unlocks it.
o-----------------------o
| The door is unlocked! |
o-----------------------o
Xero: Tally ho!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Garden Room: The Core
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A large area with grass and benches and a central pond. They arrive
from the right.
Clemett: I don't believe my eyes! This place is...
Xero: Beautiful...
Jirina: The Core... Once a marketplace renowned in Wyldern.
A garden surrounded by stone yet full and lush.
It was the pride of Emperor Orgran...
Clemett: Well, he had a lot to be proud of!
Xero: Well, it may look peaceful here...
Clemett: Right! Let's keep our eyes open, eh.
---- They join together again.
---------------------
North Treasure Rooms
--------------------
Setting: Two treasure rooms. One with no enemies, the second with some.
Clemett: Hoody hoo! We hit the jackpot!
Jirina: Indeed...this is old Imperial guard issue gear. Highest quality...
Xero: I thought the Banori made the best armour in Wyldern...
Jirina: Humph! If you call sticking spikes on everything "the best"...
The Banori are crude and vicious. this armour... Aaahh...
Clemett: I think someone's in love, Head.
Jirina: Elegant...sleek...each piece a thing of beauty...
They don't make it like this any more...
Clemett: Right, right... So put some on, already!
Jirina: Hee hee! I feel almost...giddy.
Xero: Giddy?!
Jirina: Like a schoolgirl...
Clemett: Give me strength... The way to her heart is armour...
Jirina: Don't take my word for it! Put some on and see!
---- They join up again.
-----------
Second Room
-----------
Trooper: ...so, the Banori starts squeaking about losing!
I says "Cough up the hex, or you're gonna taste steel!" and he
starts bawling!
Officer: Har har har! I knew the Banori were all talk!
Guard: I dunno. I heard the Banori got some new weapon...
Officer: Yeah?
Guard: Yeah. It throws rocks!
Trooper: Ooooooh! So do I, you wormy git! What kinda weapon is dat!
Guard: This one throws rocks as big as a hut!
They used it to wipe out the river blockade, I hear!
Officer: That's propaganda, mush-for-brains...
---- The party separates and Clemett walks forwards.
Clemett: Really now? Is that so?
Xero: Hmm...I seem to recall bashing that fort to splinters with the
catapult!
Jirina: The troops within ran squealing from the ruins, only to get filled
with Banori arrows.
Guard: See! I TOLD YA!
Trooper: You dimwit! It's the enemy you're agreeing with!
Officer: Don't just stand there...attack!
---- Battle with two of the three.
Guard: Er...heh heh...I give up!
Jirina: You...surrender?
Guard: Oh, yeah! I heard of you guys. I ain't as stupid as I look!
I heard about the Garrison... The blockade... You guys are devils!
Xero: I've seen it all. A dargling with sense.
Jirina: What are we to do with him?
Clemett: I'll handle it.
Hey... Look out behind you!
---- The guard turns around and Clemett hits him over the head.
Clemett: Sleep it off, dummy. If you're lucky, you'll wake up in a nice
cell.
Jirina: If you're not lucky, you'll wind up in a Banori cell...
Xero: I still shiver at the thought of that creature they were torturing!
Jirina: Experimenting. They were experimenting then.
Banori torture is far more brutal...
Xero: Ah.
Clemett: Ugh. On that pleasant thought...
---- They regroup.
--------------------
South Treasure Rooms
--------------------
Clemett: Say, now... Someone's gonna have a real nice party...
Jirina: Most of this is of Imperial design...
From a time when my people weren't so...nice.
Clemett: There was a time when you people were WORSE?!
Jirina: You're as funny as a gaping head wound. I'm being serious.
Clemett: So was I.
Xero: Er...please enlighten us, dear.
Jirina: We haven't been seeing a lot of this quality of weapon...so far.
We can assume that the elite troops will be carrying such weapons.
Clemett: Yeah, so?
Jirina: So these weapons are often enchanted...and capable of inflicting
most grievous damage.
Xero: I see...this is good to know...
Clemett: Until they show up with guns, I'm not worried! Let's go!
Jirina: Humph! You can be so arrogant sometimes, mechanic!
Xero: Some of this stuff might be useful...grab what you can...
---- They regroup.
-----------
Second Room
-----------
Setting: Tumbled and broken furniture and three Banori are in this room.
Trooper: Hhhate thisss placcce! Thhhrasssh it!
Officer: Ssssettle down, idiot. We mussst ssssleep here. Clean thissss up!
Trooper: Bah! Therrrre isss a ssslave. Let IT clean up!
---- The party show themselves.
Clemett: Guess again, eh. We're not the cleaners.
Xero: We're not slaves, either.
Trooper: Then you willll be foooooood! Raaaaaah!
Jirina: This food bites back, vermin!
---- Battle.
Jirina: Apparently Hokum's frontline troops don't like guard duty...
Xero: They'll like fighting our allies even less.
Clemett: Looks like there's some goods here. Let's stock up and beat feet...
---- The party regroups.
------------------
The Left Exit Arch
------------------
Setting: As the group start to walk up the steps, Jirina will call a halt.
Jirina: Hold.
Clemett: What's up?
Jirina: There is writing on this arch...Imperial Org...
Xero: Can you read it?
Jirina: A little... It's something to do with an exit... Hmm...
"Beyond this Arch lies the Emperor's Domain."
Xero: Sounds awfully important!
Jirina: It is...
In Imperial times, Tyr Og Nor was divided into two sections.
The first, where we are, was for the commoners.
Clemett: The other was for the upper crust, right?
Jirina: Correct. No doubt Hokum has taken it over now...
Xero: He has declared himself emperor after all.
CLemett: So what are you getting at?
Jirina: Mannheim mentioned he knew of our raid.
CLemett: Right...
Jirina: If we are to aid our friends...the way to do so is through this
arch.
CLemett: Ah! Finally!
Xero: They could be in dire trouble by mow...
Jirina: Especially since Mannheim got away.
CLemett: Right! So what are we waitin' for? Let's go!
---- They regroup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Tunnels
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------
South Control Room
------------------
Setting: The control room in the south part of the tunnels. There are two
machines with red dials on one wall and two Darg Orgs..
Clemett: Well, what are you little scamps up to?
Tech: Oh no! They found us!
Scientist: Shut up and shoot, idiot!
---- Battle. Xero is looking at a collection of six wheels on the wall.
Xero: This is interesting.
Clemett: Some of this is out stuff...mixed with stuff I don't recognise
Jirina: That would be Science Cult work.
Xero: Another group of enemies?
Jirina: No...actually, they're a leftover of the Empire.
A group dedicated to science rather than magic...
Clemett: I like 'em already... Hmm... This stuff is bizarre...
Xero: What is it's purpose?
Clemett: Seems to link up to a security system of some kind...somewhere...
I'll be grimed if I can tell you what the rest does...
Jirina: Deal with the known now. The unknown will have its day later...
Clemett: Right. One less deathtrap is fine by me!
---- He walks to the wheels and turns one.
Clemett: That outta do it...I think.
Jirina: You think?
Clemett: Hey, like I said... This stuff's weird!
Xero: Guess we'll take our chances, old man.
---- They regroup.
------------------
North Control Room
------------------
Setting: There are four wheels on the wall and some other bits of machinery.
Clemett: Gadgets, gadgets everywhere! I feel like a podling again!
Xero: Any idea as to their purpose?
Clemett: P-R42 valves...a class A Yoder-Wave generator...and a Binary Phase
Inducer...hmm...
It's either a deathtrap control system or an expresso machine.
Xero: How droll. Please be serious.
Clemett: I am being serious! This stuff has a wide range of uses, y'know!
Jirina: Never mind its function. It's bound to be important. Disable
it...whatever it is.
Clemett: Er...heh heh. I'll do what I can...but some of this tech is beyond
me.
Jirina: Meaning...?
Clemett: I might not disable anything...
Jirina: What?
Clemett: I might turn up the intensity...speed...rate of fire...
Jirina: Is there any way you can be sure?
Clemett: Oh, yeah. Good old fashioned Scientific Method.
Xero: Which is...?
Clemett: Step one--Observe. I see these levers over here.
Step two--Hypothesis. I believe these will turn off the deathtraps.
---- He goes to the left hand wheel on the wall and turns it.
Clemett: Now comes the fun part.
Xero: And that is...?
Clemett: Step three--Experiment. We test my hypothesis.
Jirina: How?
Clemett: By going out and checking things out, of course!
Xero: Oh, dear.
Clemett: That'll bring us to step four--Conclusion. Either I'm right, or I'm
wrong.
Xero: Why do I think I won't like step four?
Clemett: Don't be such an old woman, Head!
I'm hardly ever wrong...
---- They regroup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mannheim' Head
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
The Hall
--------
Setting: This is a huge hall with steps leading down in front and a entrance
hole in the back wall.
Clemett: Step four--Conclusion!
Xero: Which is...?
Clemett: That I'm a raging genius, eh! We're all alive, aren't we?!
Jirina: We haven't reached the end of the hall yet...genius.
Clemett: ...
Jirina: The experiment is still in progress...
Xero: And you wonder why I disdain science...
Clemett: You can both get stuffed...grr...
---- They regroup.
--------------
Down the steps
--------------
Setting: A small empty room. But the floor is heaped with ore that nearly
covers a couple of barrels.
Clemett: Wuh-wuh-wuh...
Xero: Zounds!
Clemett: Look at all this hexite! The things we could make...
Jirina: Control yourself, mechanic. This is depleted hexite. It's almost
worthless.
Clemett: Huh?!?
Jirina: See the dull sheen? That means it's been depleted. Spent...on who
knows what.
Xero: I'll wager it's been used on implements of doom...more weapons for
Hokum's war machine.
Jirina: That's a sound bet.
Clemett: Well...looks like there's some useful loot in here, too. Let's
stock up and move on.
Jirina: Right.
---- They join up again.
--------------
The Quiet Room
--------------
Setting: There is a room with a central pool and a few boxes and beds.
Xero: Hmm...nice and quiet in here.
Jirina: As it should be. This i an Eresh-Gha.
Clemett: That doesn't sound very peaceful to me.
Jirina: Hmph. Erseh-Gha means "Rest with the Gods."
One comes to this place to heal and gain peace of mind. This is
sacred ground.
Clemett: Hmm...I'm surprised the darglings haven't trashed it.
Jirina: As am I...it is most peculiar.
Xero: What is the pool for?
Jirina: Those are healing waters. Drink of them and you shall be
restored...
Clemett: I like the sound of that!
Xero: As do I.
---- They walk to the pool.
o------------------------o
| The cool, clear waters |
| restore the party. |
o------------------------o
-------------
The Main Hall
-------------
Setting: They stop again for a chat near the large circle that is faintly
etched in the floor.
Clemett: Well...this is the place.
Jirina: Perhaps the runes are wrong...this does not look like a portal.
Xero: Could it be hidden? Walled off?
---- There is a noise and some light and Mannheim's head appears in the
centre of the circle.
Mannheim: Howdiddly ho, friends!
Clemett: Aargh...this is as bad as it gets!
Mannheim: Why, I dare say it could get a lot worse.
Allow me to demonstrate!
"Dark forces, horrific majesty. Bring some brutish fiends to me!
I COMMAND IT!"
---- Two Hexite Golems appear.
Xero: Rather poor poetry, chap...
Mannheim: KILL THEM!!!!
---- Battle.
Jirina: You will have to do better than that.
Mannheim: Nuts! Well...okay, let's see here...
"I tire of this boastful talker, what I need is the might of a
STALKER! I COMMAND IT!"
---- A winged stalker appears.
Jirina: Now we will see who is the boastful one...
---- Battle.
Mannheim: You have accomplished the impossible...
Many now have faith in you...
Your memory lives on in the hearts and minds of the souls you have
touched along the way...
You have damaged my dark liege...they do not fear him anymore...
You must die...
You must die horribly.
So that the world can know what cowards you really are!
---- Battle.
Xero: Dead...he's finally dead.
Clemett: I don't know...I think that guy has more lives than a cat!
Jirina: Cats have multiple souls?
Clemett: Ergh! you're worse than Harv-5 sometimes!
Jirina: You said it, I didn't.
Xero: Heh heh heh. If I may interrupt...?
Clemett: What's on your mind, Head?
Xero: The head's dead, old man. I'm whole again, remember?
Clemett: Whatever...
Xero: We seem to be at an impasse here. We have no idea how to advance.
Clemett: Don't be so sure. I...I think this is a Matrans disc.
Jirina: Explain.
Clemett: Matrans...short for "matter transport".
It's Gadgeteer tech. Probably got it from Stan and Murph...
They were just nuts enough to screw with bad sci like this.
Jirina: What does it do?
Clemett: What, "Matter transport" isn't simple enough for you?!
Jirina: ...
Clemett: (sigh) Okay... you put stuff on the bog circle in the floor...
Hit a switch somewhere...and POOF...the stuff goes somewhere else...
Jirina: Where? Limbo? Hell?
CLemett: Give me strength... No! The other end of the circuit...er...
tunnel...path.
Know what I mean?
Jirina: I think os. It's a little like a summoning circle...
Xero: Very close, dear. Only it's a travelling circle!
Jirina: Ah! One stands in the circle and mystically travels to another
circle!
Clemett: Yeah... Whatever works for you.
Jirina: So...what do we meed to do?
Clemett: Well...guess we gotta find the magic button. This could take a
while....
o------------------o
| Meanwhile, back |
| in Cyl Og Sul... |
o------------------o
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. Stinger's Route 0342
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stinger: Let's get busy!
-------------------
Entering Tyr Og Nor
------------------
Stinger: Here it is. The gateway to Tyr Og Nor. Last chance to get
prepared!
Ready to go?
Yes
No
# Select No
Stinger: Let's look around. See if we can find some supplies...
Stinger: This is looking like it goes into lower Tyr Og Nor...
Isn't that where Xero, Clemett, and Jirina are going?
We'd better find another way...
##Select Yes.
---- They enter the sewers.
----------
The Sewers
----------
Setting: The start of the sewers.
Stinger: Bleeeeeah!
Windleaf: (cough) I know... It stinks... Let's just...go...
Harv-5: We are no alone in here...be cautious.
Stigner: Some...someone actually LIVES...in here?
Harv-5: Many "someones". Let us advance...quickly.
---------------
The Slaves Room
---------------
Setting: Three people and four troughs of waste water and pipes dripping green
and blue stuff.
Slave: So, I tell Markus..."Watch out for Waas!" "He's simple!
He'll fall in!"
Worker: Aaah! Look! Killers!
Harv-5: Be at ease. We mean no harm.
Foreman: What're the weapons for, then.
Stinger: Oh, those. They're for bad people.
Slave: Um...are we bad people?
Windleaf: No...
Slave: Whew.
Worker: What are you doing here...and, uh, why did you come in through the
sewers?
Stinger: You ask too many questions.
Worker: Right you are , sir!
Windleaf: Let's just say we're here to put your boss out of business.
Slave: The foreman? What'd he do?
Foreman: No, moron! The BOG Boss! Hokum!
Slave: Oh....
Stinger: You guys mind if we do that?
Worker: Oh, yeah. We just love processing sewers and waste.
Foreman: Yeah. Please don't kill our murdering scumbag of a master, sir.
Stinger: Everyone's a comedian...
Windleaf: If anyone; asks...
Foreman: You were never here.
Worker: Who?
Stinger: Right. Have fun, boys...
---- They regroup. Speak to everyone again.
Foreman: Give 'em one for us, eh?
Worker: Hope you're done before the shift ends...
My back's killin' me!
Slave: You guys have a better health plan than the Boss?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Green Machine Room
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: A huge area with many machines and steps leading up the centre.
Stinger: Whoa!
Windleaf: It's like a twisted version of Eyre...
Harv-5: Interesting that you mention that, WIndleaf.
Windleaf: Oh? Why?
Harv-5: This is Gadgeteer technology. Those are generators...
Stinger: How'd they get this down here?
Harv-5: I suspect the involvement of Stanley and Murphy...
Stinger: Wonder what they're up to?
Harv-5: I cannot say. Whatever it may be, it requires a lot of power.
Windleaf: I hope we don't find out... Technology in the wrong hands...
Stinger: Ugh! Nuff said! Let's go.
---------------
Left Side Room
---------------
Setting: Empty except for some odd bits of machinery, including a work bench,
and perhaps a drill. Distinctly unsettling.
Stinger: What in the world...?
Windleaf: That smell..it's like Enclaan...burning...
Harv-5: More Gadgeteer technology...
Stinger: Jirina mentioned experiments...the way they make those dargling
troopers...
Windleaf: They might be doing the same here...or worse...
Harv: If that's so, the area is of import to Hokum.
It will not be unoccupied for long.
Stinger: Right...let's move.
----------------------
South Central Entrance
----------------------
---- Attempt to go down to the south room
Stinger: This looks like it goes to the lower levels where Xero, Clemett and
Jirina are acting as decoys for us...
Better stay up here...
----------------------
South Right Empty Room
----------------------
Setting: There is a bed and a desk in this neat room.
Stinger: No one around... Good.
Windleaf: This place...so tidy...
Harv-5: Perhaps the home of...a Gadgeteer...
Stinger: I dunno...how many Gadgeteers do you know that sleep in a bed?
Havr-5: Clemett, for one.
Stinger: Figures...
Windleaf: Let's hope we're wrong. I don't want to fight a corrupt
Gadgeteer...
Harv-5: I can't recommend the experience. They were surprisingly vicious...
Stinger: Thanks for the update. Let's go before whoever it is gets back.
---- They regroup. Check the book on the table.
Stinger: Looks like a diary...Read it?
Yes
No
#Select No, and nothing happens and it cannot be read at all.
##Select Yes.
o--------------------------------------o
| War Journal Entry 242 |
| Imperial Inquisitor Dacen reporting. |
o--------------------------------------o
----- Read the whole diary.
Stinger: Hmm...I think we know what those generators are for now...
These freaks must be stopped!
-----------------
Experimental Room
-----------------
Setting: There is a scientist, a rack and a nasty looking chair with
restraints. A Toparri woman is in a cage, obviously awaiting experimentation.
Assistant: Hello there. Here to help with the experiment?
Stinger: Huh...?
Assistant: Ah, they do make you dumb these days, don't they?
Deathbot! State your purpose!
Harv-5: If you are addressing me, my purpose is to stop creatures such as
you!
Assistant: Wait a moment... You aren't servants of Hokum...
Windleaf: Bright boy... Don't make any sudden moves.
Jajac: Please! Help me! He's a butcher!
Assistant: I am a scientist, you pagan hussy! Get it right!
Stinger: Your operation is over, pal. There's two ways we can do this...
Assistant: How droll. I didn't get to this position by being soft!
Time to shut YOU down, ingrate!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Can't believe he thought he could take all three of us...
Jajac: Help...please help me...
Windleaf: We'll get you out in a second! Stinger...
---- He opens the cage door.
Stinger: Come on out...I won't hurt you...
Jajac: T-thank you...
Windleaf: Will you be all right?
Jajac: I believe so...
Stinger: What went on here?
Jajac: Torture...that man, and his master...they...they...
Windleaf: It's okay...
Jajac: They killed my lifemate...burned him alive...
Watched...to see how long he'd last...took notes...
I am lost...
Windleaf: You'll be okay...
Jajac: What am I to do now? Where can I go?
Stinger: Leave this room... Go down the hall, to the end. Enter the lower
entrance.
Harv-5: It will be unpleasant...but there is a way out there.
Jajac: No. There is no way out. Jidea is gone. I must join him.
...
---- She falls forward to the floor.
Stinger: What the...?
Windleaf: I'll handle this!
---- She dashes over to the fallen Jajac.
Stinger: What happened?! Windleaf?
Windleaf: I...I didn't do it! I couldn't cast the spell in time!
Harv-5: It ...was suicide. Self-destruction.
Stinger: No...why? Why did she do that?
Windleaf: You heard... Her mate... She couldn't live...without him...
Stinger: Oh, man... There's always a choice!
Harv-5: Perhaps not for Toparri. They...are not human...
Stinger: All I know is that a couple of lives were ruined here...
And I'm gonna ruin the idiot that's responsible!
YOU HEAR ME, HOKUM?! YOU'RE GONNA DIE!
Windleaf: Stinger! Be quiet!
Harv-5: Do not make us restrain you. Ours is a mission of stealth...
Stinger: Dammit, Windleaf...this just eats at me...
Windleaf: I know...I understand...
But you need to be strong. People are depending on you. People you
care about.
People...who love you.
Stinger: Like...you?
Windleaf: Like me...
---- She turns to Harv-5 who has been waiting at the door.
Harv-5: It seems quiet...I believe we can advance.
Stinger: Oh, we're gonna advnace alright, pal...
---- He moves away from the body of Jajac.
Stinger: Right up to Hokum's door...then through it...and anyone who gets in
our way.
---- They join together again.
----------
Empty Room
----------
Setting: The left hand room at the top of the steps has beds and some storage
boxes.
Stinger: Man...this is too easy.
Harv-5: I concur. Reisistance is unusually light.
Windleaf: It's almost as if...
Stinger: What?
Windleaf: They're letting us move...watching us...testing us...
Harv-5: A distinct possibility. Hokum is not without resources of
intellect.
Stinger: Yeah, well if you're watchin' now...if you can hear me...
Get ready to burn! We're comin' for you! You and your master!
Windleaf: (ahem)
Stinger: Well...just figured it needed to be said.
Windleaf: Save it for when you meet him face to face. It'll feel much better
then.
Harv-5: He will no doubt tremble in fear when you assault his character in
person.
Stinger: You two live to bust my chops, don't you?
Shut up...don't answer that!
Windleaf: Hee hee hee!
Harv-5: I laugh.
Stinger: Grrrrr...
---- They regroup.
---------
War Room
--------
Setting: The central room at the top of the steps has two large maps laid out
on a table.
Windleaf: What a peculiar place this is!
Harv-5: It is a war room.
Stinger: Hey look! Little toy soldiers! Maps of Arkose...and I guess this
one's Wyldern,
Harv-5: I suspect these represent the forces of Hokum...and of our allies.
Windleaf: Which ones are ours?
Harv-5: I cannot be certain. There seems to be a majority of one type,
though.
Stinger: That'd be our type, haybrains.
Look up by the Banori caves...and here at the Garrison. We're
winning!
Harv-5: Pardon me for being dead. I was unaware of these advances.
Windleaf: He's right, Stinger.
We didn't find out about the Garrison and such until we got back
from Metabolas. Harv-5 was...not with us, then.
Stinger: Aw, man!
The one time I have one up on Harv-5, and you have to spoil it!
Harv-5: You have a long life ahead of you, Stinger. The odds are with you.
You may, someday, outwit me. Have faith.
Stinger: Why, you cast-iron...
Windleaf: Boys! Enough! Time to go!
Stinger: One of these days, she's not gonna be around to protect you...
Harv-5: True. I will endeavour not to damage your body or pride too much
when that occurs.
Windleaf: Don't make me blast you...
Stinger: We're comin'! Relax!
---------
Rest Room
---------
Setting: There are some neat bunk beds in this room.
Stinger: Hellooo? Anyone at home?
Windleaf: Stinger, you dingbat! Get serious!
Stinger: Did you just call me a dingbat?
Windleaf: Yes...and I'll call you worse if you don't settle down.
Stinger: I must be rubbin' off on you...
Harv-5: A condition you must remedy, Windleaf.
One human with behaviour patterns like Stinger is quite enough.
Stinger: And to think we could have left you shut off...
Harv-5: This area is far too orderly for darglings.
Stinger: You thinkin' what I'm thinkin'?
Windleaf: Perhaps Hokum has lackeys who haven't been turned...
Harv-5: Quite likely. Darglings aren't known for their intellectual
prowess.
Stinger: Sounds like we have some traitors in the house...
Windleaf: If that's so...They picked the wrong side.
Stinger: Amen to that, sister!
Harv-5: This area is secure... Well, enough to accommodate a brief rest
period.
Stinger: Your point?
Harv-5: Our journey has been long. Fatigue is a factor for humans. Peak
condition is optimal for what lies ahead.
Windleaf: I think he's saying we can take a break here if need to.
Stinger: Oh.
You wanna take a break?
Yes
No
#Select Yes.
o-----------------------o
| The party is restored |
| through sleep |
o-----------------------o
------------------------
Hallway beyond War Room
-----------------------
Setting: All three doorways lead to and empty hallway with stairs going up
ahead.
Windleaf: How starnge... It's not all...technical here.
Stinger: Looks like the way to the next floor. Good.
Harv-5: Sniff...
Stinger: Somethin' in your nose?
Harv-5: Yes...a familiar odour...
---- Grimsmeer emerges from the doorway.
Stinger: Gaaah! you got that right, Harv-5! It's the king of odour!
Grimsmeer: Inhale deeply, worm!
---- He breaks wind, noisily and deliberately.
Grimsmeer: It will be the last scent you enjoy!
Windleaf: I seriously doubt that... Especially the enjoying part!
Grimsmeer: Oh, and the female takes her shot!
I still owe you for that fight at the Keep, witch!
Windleaf: You ran off before we could finish, you little coward!
Grimsmeer: No more running, honey. I pulled everyone back. You three are mine
and mine alone!
Stinger: I'm touched.
Let's kick this stinky little punk into next week, guys...
---- Battle.
Stinger: Damn...that was tough... HE was tough...
Windleaf: I know... And he...fought to the end...
Harv-5: Hokum may have had a hand in that...
Grimsmeer may have feared the penalty for failure more than us...
Stinger: Yeah...
Still think he doesn't know we're here?
Windleaf: It's seeming less likely... We may be marching into a trap...
Harv-5: Perhpas. But it may be necessary.
Stinger: Maybe. I don't care. I want him, and I want him dead.
The longer we wait, the more people die at his hand. My decision's
made...
Windleaf: As is mine. We started together. We'll end the same.
Harv-5: Agreed.
---- They regroup.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Living Quarters Area
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: This large area has three paths leading upwards and there are round
green rooms lining the outer paths.
Windleaf: Brr... it's cold in here.
Harv-5: We must be close to the summit of the mountain.
Stinger: You're probably right... You know what that means?
Harv-5: We're almost to Hokum.
Stinger: Exactly. Let's get dangerous.
---- They regroup.
-------------
The Exit Door
-------------
Setting: They stop to talk at the door at the far end of the area.
Stinger: I...think it's a door...
Guardian: Beyond lies the chamber of the Emperor.
Windleaf: It talks!
Guardian: Without the keys...none shall pass.
Stinger: You sure?
Guardian: I stand resolute. I cannot be swayed.
Stinger: Worth a shot...
Harv-5: Let us search. The keys it requires may be within this level.
---- They regroup. Speak to the door again.
Guardian: You are wasting energy. I will not let you through. Not without
the keys of the Empire.
Stinger: I hate talking doors...
-------------------
The Left Side Rooms
-------------------
-----------
Dining Room
-----------
Setting: The first room on the left contains a large black table and 11 purple
dining chairs.
Stinger: Dinner's ready!
Windleaf: So it would seem...
Harv-5: But where are the guests?
Stinger: Who cares? I'm hungry, and I'm here!
Windleaf: (sigh)
---- They join up again.
-------------
Torture Room
------------
Setting: This is a torture room with stocks and a rack and chair similar to
the last room but this time a woman (with red lipsticked mouth and blue painted
eyes) is in charge, and a Darg Org is kneeling in front of her.
Domina: You are filth, Inquisitor. You have committed foul deeds. You must
be punished.
Stinger: Hmm...reminds me of Jirina...
Dacen: Yes, mistress! I must be punished!
Windleaf: Today's your lucky day, then.
---- Domina turns around to speak to the group.
Domina: I don't know how you think you are...but he's mine!
No one hands out punishment here but ME!
Windleaf: Times change, sister.
Domina: I'll beat the insolence out of you, girl!
Stinger: This oughtta be good...
---- Battle.
Stinger: All right, buddy... I take it you're going along quietly.
Dacen: Oooooh...
---- He collapses, head first, on the floor.
Stinger: Is he..?
---- Windleaf gets closer to check.
Windleaf: No...he's okay. I think he fainted.
Stinger: Pathetic...
Windleaf: A-ha! I found this, though!
o--------------------o
| Windleaf finds the |
| Empress Key! |
o--------------------o
Windleaf: It's carved in the shape of a woman...how strange!
Stinger: Goes with the territory. Leave fainting boy where he lies...we got
better things to do.
-------------
Leisure Room
-------------
Setting: There are two Darg Org fighters and a girl is standing in the centre
of a circular platform that is surrounded with small lights.
Colonel: So, you think this new weapon will handle the Toparri?
Major: The Inquisitor thinks so. SO does the Emperor. Who am I to argue?
Colonel: Harumph. I think it needs more testing...
Stinger: I think we should test it on you losers...
Major: Gaah! The Lethal Three!
Stinger: "Lethal Three"?!
Windleaf: What's that supposed to mean?
Colonel: It means you three mongrels have made it to the top of the most
wanted list.
Stinger: The top? Higher than Jirina and the the others? Excellent!
Harv-5: We'll never hear the end of this, Windleaf.
Windleaf: (sigh)
Stinger: So...you two gonna be smart, or are you gonna try and right?
Colonel: What a pompous little ass! He thinks he can take out two of Hokum;s
elite!
Major: Ha ha ha! We'll see how smart he is after a week in the labour pit!
---- Battle.
Dancer: Um...please don't kill me...
Stinger: Don't worry about it, honey. How'd you get down here, anyway?
Dancer: My troupe was captured by monsters...they hauled us down here...
I don't think I'll ever be able to look in a mirror any more...
Windleaf: Find someplace safe. Hide...quickly!
Dancer: Uh...okay...thanks...I think...
---- She walks away down the lighted platform.
Stinger: She was kinda cute for a Siltherian...
---- Windleaf turns around and slaps Stinger on the face.
Stinger: Ow! Kidding! I was kidding!
Windleaf: Sure you were... Pig!
Harv-5: I don't know. I think she needed exercise and a better diet.
Windleaf: Not you, too!
Harv-5: Excuse me. It just...slipped out.
Stinger: Uh, huh...right.
Windleaf: Let's go!
----------------
Right Side Rooms
----------------
-------------
Maiden's Room
-------------
Setting: Two females are in a room with many rugs and cushions on the floor.
Windleaf: Hello, ladies... I hope they haven't treated you poorly here...
Maiden: Oh, no, sister! We've been well-cared for...
Dancer: You are a comely one... You should join us...
Windleaf: Er...no thanks. I'm quite happy...
Maiden: Happy? Being an enemy of the state?
Windleaf: What...?
Dancer: Oh, yes... We know who you are...
Maiden: You...and your delicious boyfriend...mmmm!
Stinger: Oh, Harv-5! I think she likes you!
Harv-5: It would never work. A robot like me and a woman like her...
Maiden: Last chance, Windleaf. Join us...or we'll turn you over to Hokum...
Windleaf: Not going to happen, sister.
Dancer: Oh, pooh. Looks like we'll have to beat some sense into you!
---- Battle.
Stinger: I dunno, Windleaf... You might have passed up a prime opportunity!
Windleaf: Oh, shut up!
Harv-5: Do you really think she liked me?
Stinger: Oh, sure.
Girls just go nuts for metal bumpkins with big goggle eyes!
Harv-5: The creators will be pleased.
They never intended me yo be a sex symbol.
Windleaf: Hee hee hee! Work it, Harv-5!
Stinger: Oh, please... Let's go...
---- They regroup.
--------------
The Pool Room
-------------
Setting: There are a number of pools of blue water.
Stinger: Well now! This looks nice!
Windleaf: It reminds me of the spa...in Enclaan...
Stinger: Hmm...
Hey, Windleaf...wanna take a bath?
Windleaf: Stinger!!! (blush) Are you insane?!
Stinger: Oh, come on! It'll be fun!
Harv-5 won't look...will you?
Harv-5: Your modesty is the last thing on my mind...
Stinger: Er...right... So, anyway... Whadda you say, Windleaf?
---- Windleaf slaps Stinger hard.
Stinger: Hey! That hurt!
Windleaf: Let's just keep our focus on our task, okay?
Stinger: Ow...that's what I get for trying to lighten the mood...
Harv-5: You're lucky she didn't drown you.
Stinger: Yeah...I suppose.
---- He leaps into the air with both arms outstretched.
Windleaf: Come along, Harv-5. You too, Stinger...
Stinger: Yeah, whatever... But we really could use a quick one!
Windleaf: Catch a clue! I'm not interested in that! At least, not now!
Stinger: Not what I mean! Some of these pools aren't just for bathing in...
Windleaf: All right...I'm listening. I'm warning you, though. If you get
fresh again...
Stinger: Yeah, yeah... "There will be death."
Windleaf: Exactly!
Harv-5: I should patent that statement.
Stinger: Okay, both of you... Settle down!
These tubs are filled with healing waters. Just like in the Hexite
Mine!
Windleaf: Ahhhhhh! I see! Okay! No beating for you!
Stinger: Swell...
Windleaf: Let's have some before we move out!
---- They join up and walk towards one of the pools.
o---------------------------------------o
| The healing waters restore the party! |
o---------------------------------------o
---------------
Massage Parlour
---------------
Setting: There are three massage tables in the room and a couple of hostesses
and two Darg soldiers.
Hostess: Hello there. Please be seated. I'll be with you shortly.
Stinger: Um...
Hostess: Don't be bashful! We're all professionals here.
Captain: Wait your turn, youngster!
Brigadier: Right! Follow the chain of command, you!
Captain: Officer's privilege, eh, Brigadier? Ho ho ho!
---- The Hostess turns to speak to the Dargs.
Hostess: Now, boys... Don't make me cranky!
Captain: Yes, ma'am!
Brigadier: Oh...and get that deathbot out of here!
Windleaf: They...they think we're on their side...
Stinger: Doesn't surprise me... Varley was in league with 'em...
Harv-5: Makes you wonder who else on Arkose was in league with Hokum...
Captain: Hey! What's all this babble, then?
Hostess: I...believe we have unwanted guests, Captain.
Brigadier: You're the hostess! Get rid of them!
Hostess: As you wish...
Stinger: Took ya long enough...
---- Battle.
Brigadier: Now...let's not be hasty...young man... Heh heh heh...
Stinger: Shaddup.
Captain: All our gear... Money... It's in that chest...
Stinger: Yeah?
Captain: It's all yours... Just let us live...
Stinger: Keep an eye on 'em, guys. I'll check out the chest.
---- He walks to the chest.
o----------------------o
| Stinger finds a fine |
| stash of loot! |
o----------------------o
Stinger: Interesting key you got here, boys.
---- The Brigadier raises his arms in the air in a gesture of despair.
Brigadier: Oh, no! The Emperor Key!
Captain: Uh...heh heh... Yes, it sure is!
Brigadier: Hokum will kill us if they keep that!
Captain: Er...they'll kill us if we don't let them have it...
Brigadier: Bah! Act like a soldier, you fool!
Windleaf: Uh, oh...
---- Battle.
Stinger: These guys were loaded! I wonder how long their operation has been
goin' on?
Windleaf: Who cares... It's over now.
Harv-5: Hokum's use of shapeshifters is of interest.
Stinger: Yeah?
Harv-5: Yes. It means we must be careful who we trust...
Windleaf: Oh?
Harv-5: Anyone we meet may be one of his doppelgangers in disguise...
Stinger: Good thinking...
---- They join together again.
-----------------------------
Door Guardian: With Both Keys
-----------------------------
Guardian: That wasn't so hard, now was it?
Stinger: Jackass of a door...just open up and let us in!
Guardian: You'd be mischievous too if you had my job.
Windleaf: Hee hee hee!
Stinger: Well? We have the keys!
Guardian: Oh, those things. Trinkets!
I just wanted you to deal with some of this trash that hangs around.
I figured it was a fair trade.
Stinger: Do you hear this guy? Unbelievable!
Guardian: Don't have a fit. Here...
---- The door opens.
Stinger: Thank you.
Guardian: Uurr elllumm.
Stinger: What?!
Guardian: I said, "You're welcome."
Stinger: Oh...
Let's go, guys...before he changes his mind.
===============================================================================
TYR OG NOR 6
===============================================================================
--------------
Small Hallway
--------------
Setting: Once through the door they are in a small room with three exits.
Windleaf: Oooooh....
Stinger: You okay?
Windleaf: Give me a moment...
Harv-5: Hokum...he must be near...
Windleaf: He...is... This place is charged with his power...
His...and the Darg's...
Harv-5: At last.
Stinger: Hokum...
---- They join together again.
---------
East Room
---------
Setting: There are three Deathbots in a room with tables and other furniture.
Stinger: Hey, look Harv-5! It's your ugly cousins! Rusty, Greasy, and
Broke!
Harv-5: They are the poor cousins. Mass-production has led to poor
quality.
Deathbot
Leader: Traitor to your kind! you will be retooled.... Remade in the
master's image!
Stinger: That sounds nasty... Retooled...
Windleaf: Quite clowning! These things are killers!
Harv-5: They offend me. Let there be death... Machine death....
---- Battle.
Stinger: Dang, Harv-5... I get the feeling you don't like these guys.
Harv-5: They are perversions of science.
Robots should coexist with the living...not oppress them.
Windleaf: That could be said about Magi as well...
Stinger: My mum had a saying...
"No matter how hard we try, bad seeds get planted in every garden."
"Sooner or later," she'd say, "it's time to pull the weeds."
Harv-5: Your mother was most wise.
---- They join together again.
---------
West Room
---------
Setting: This is a library, with a large long green table and a bookshelf.
Hokum's library.
Windleaf: The library of Hokum...
Stinger: Bet the Codex is in here.
Harv-5: The Natragor Codex?
Stinger: Oh, yeah. You were out to lunch when that happened.
Windleaf: I am almost afraid to look at these books...
Who knows what foul subjects they might cover?
Stinger: I'll bet they have god pictures in 'em...
Windleaf: Don't joke about things like that!
Stinger: Okay, I'll talk about Harv-5 and his hat, then...
Harv-5: What's with you and my hat, anyway?
Windleaf: Oh, don't get him started! Let's go!
---- They join up again.
----------
Large Hall
----------
Setting: A large hall with a central red carpet leading to a large throne like
chair.
Windleaf: What a mess! And that smell! Ugh!
Stinger: This must be Grimsmeer's love nest...
Harv-5: Enough banter... The enemy is upon us.
---- Three Deathbots walk forwards from a doorway at the far end.
Stinger: Hi, kids! Can Damon come out and play?
Gunnybot: Insolent cur! I'll shred the flesh from your bones for that!
Windleaf: My, isn't he touchy? That was mild for Stinger!
Stinger: No kidding!
Hey! Bolts for brains!
What's the penalty for calling you a two-bit Harv-5 wannabe?
Gunnybot: Taunt as you like, boy. You'll be screaming soon enough...
Lancebot: This babble irritates me!
Deathbot: Let there be death!
Harv-5: Obviously, we're dealing with amateurs.
They do not realise the tactical value of taunting the enemy.
Stinger: Yeeeaaah! Let's show 'em how it's done!
Windleaf: You're in our way. Disappear or we'll move you...
Stinger: And you won't like that. Count on it.
Lancebot: For the Emperor... ATTACK!
---- Battle.
Stinger: Whew... Those guys were tough!
Windleaf: We must be so close...
Harv-5: The sands of time are running out...
Stinger: Yeah...for Hokum.
--------------
The Inner Room
--------------
Setting: This room is in chaos with blood and mess.
Stinger: Aaaaah!
Windleaf: Oh...over there... On the...chains...
---- She walks over to inspect something bloody in the corner.
Windleaf: It's been...chewed on... Oh, man...
Harv-5: The lair of Hokum. Steel yourselves.
What lies beyond...may be equally unpleasant.
---- Stinger walks over to join Windleaf and now you can see half a body
hanging from chains and dripping blood into a large bowl on the
floor.
Stinger: Hey...
Windleaf: Stinger... I feel sick... Can't think straight...
Stinger: Come on, now... You gotta work through this, girl.
Harv-5: You are strong, Windleaf. Your power is needed.
Stinger and I cannot take Hokum alone.
Windleaf: ...
Stinger: You still with us?
Windleaf: To...to the end... You know that...
Harv-5: The end is near. Take strength in that.
Stinger: Let's find him...
---- They regroup. Check the bloody bowl.
Stinger: The den of the beast... We must be cautious.
------------------
Damon Hokum's Hall
------------------
Setting: A large hall with a central pool and large throne. Damon Hokum is
there as usual.
Stinger: There he is! Get the son of a...
---- He dashes towards Hokum.
Damon
Hokum: What? No taunts? No outbursts of bravado?
Windleaf: Monster! Murdering wretch!
D. Hokum: I'm so disappointed. After all my work to be a good host...
Stinger: What are you talkin' about?
D. Hokum: Oh, come now! Do you honestly think you caught me by surprise,
Grover?
Windleaf: Grover?!?
D. Hokum: His given name...
How many mothers do you know that would name a child "Stinger"?
Stinger: Like "Damon"is a prize-winning name! Jackass!
D. Hokum: Tch. I let you people in here! I want you here!
Harv-5: You are truly insane. Surely you know we mean to kill you.
D. Hokum: And you...what to call you? Metabolas isn't exactly correct
anymore...
And Harv-5...please... I wouldn't call a dog such a ridiculous
name.
Harv-5: It matters not. Our relationship will be short and painful...
for you, at least.
D. Hokum: So vicious you are! Ahhh ha ha ha!
See what I have made you! Perfect little killers! Bloodthirsty,
hard, and cold!
Windleaf: Arrogant filth! It figures you'd take credit for our good deeds...
Hokum: GOOD DEEDS?!? My child...you are vile! You've slaughtered LEGIONS
of living things!
You and your friends have carved a bloody swath through the world!
Stinger: Twist is all you want. We've done what needed to be done to stop
you.
D. Hokum: Wrong again. You CAN"T stop me. I'm already done!
My task was to weaken the world...to make it ready for the Darg.
And I'm done.
Windleaf: What...?
D. Hokum: Look around you. The war has left Wyldern gutted...barely alive.
And on Arkose... The madness has turned the place into a graveyard.
Which was the plan from the beginning!
Harv-5: Damage has been done. Nothing is permanent. Healing
...rebuilding...
D. Hokum: Will...never...HAPPEN! Don't you get it? It's OVER!
There are no Mage Kings! There's no Keerg to ride to the rescue!
Stinger: That's where you're wrong. We're here...and you're goin' down.
D. Hokum: Okay...I'll try again. I've been guiding you, from afar. Testing
you.
When the Darg arrives, a new dynasty begins.
And, a dynasty needs kings. Kings...and queens.
Windleaf: You must be joking.
D. Hokum: Hardly, I see proud Jirina...as ruler of Wyldern.
The glorious past she admires...realised and enforced by her hand.
Windleaf: She'd die before she'd join you!
D. Hokum: Would she...?
And Clemett...dirty, crazed, warhungry Clemett...
He'll gladly storm Eyre... Take it and turn it into a factory of
dreams...
Dark, black, violent dreams!
Harv-5: I see the path your mind is upon. You would see me...what? Ruling
Metaboline?
D. Hokum: Certainly! Karillon for Stinger...Siltheria for Xero...
And for Windleaf...dear, dear Windleaf...
Windleaf: I suppose you think I'll be your Queen.
D. Hokum: Don't flatter yourself, dear...I shan't limit myself to ONE mate...
No, for you , Windleaf, I see a position as the head of a new
Academy...
The trainer of the elite... A new breed of magewarrior... A superior
breed...
Windleaf: To continue your corruption of magic? Never!
D. Hokum: All of this...resistance...will soon pass.
I've forged you well. It won't take much to steer you to my way of
thinking.
A little push... A slight tug... And you will all be mine.
Stinger: Are you finished?
D. Hokum: Sigh...
I suppose you will continue to pursue this foolish notion of
'defeating' me until I put you down, so...
---- He turns his back on them.
D. Hokum: Come on, then. Show me the fruit of my labours.
---- He turns to face them again.
D. Hokum: Show me what good little warriors you are!
---- Battle.
D. Hokum: aaaAAAaaagh...
ffor me... It endsss...uuugh...NO...
---- He collapses to the floor and then struggles again to speak.
D. Hokum: M..master...why have...you forsaken...mee...
Stinger: So much for the master plan...Damon.
Windleaf: We did it... He's gone... He's really gone!
We did it!!!
Harv-5: So it would appear...
Stinger: No way, buddy. He's gone for good!
Windleaf: And soon...very soon... The Darg will join him.
Stinger: Let's get out of here... Go find the others.
Harv-5: If they survived...
Windleaf: Harv-5! Stop being so negative!
Harv-5: Until all threat is gone... I shall remain vigilant. My guard up.
Stinger: Probably not a bad idea... We still need to find the others and cast
that spell...
Windleaf: We better get started, then!
===============================================================================
35. END GAME 0350
===============================================================================
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
i. The Summit 0351
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
Reunion
-------
Setting: Jirina's group enter Damon's hall.
Clemett: Get started doin' what?
Stinger: Hey! you're alive!
Jirina: You expected otherwise?
Harv-5: There seems to be more of Xero than there was when we last met.
Windleaf: I'll say!
Xero; I liberated my body form Mannheim.
Poor fellow lost his head over it, I'm afraid.
Stinger: Heh. Looks like we got rid of all our old pals.
Clemett: You mean...Hokum's ...
Windleaf: That's right. Hokum is no more.
Jirina: Praise Organ... We are saved.
Clemett: HOOOOEEEEEE! I wish I could've got a shot in!
Xero: This has been a great day, my friends!
It has seen the end of Mannheim and Hokum...and will soon see the
end of the Darg.
Harv-5: Yes. Let us not forget the true power behind our enemies...
Jirina: The Darg...it's here, isn't it? Watching us...
Xero: Yes. I can sense it...lingering...very much like a shadow...
Windleaf: It'll be with us wherever we go within this place. Such is its
power.
Jirina: Now that Hokum is gone, it will seek new lackeys...
Stinger: So? Let's cast the spell and get rid of it, before it can get away
from here!
Windleaf: It's not that easy. The spell...it will take some preparation...
Xero: Indeed...
Stinger: Well, this isn't exactly the Karillon Inn, folks.
CLemett: Yeah...what troops are left are gonna be fightin' mad, now that
their boss is dead.
Harv-5: We have a difficult decision to make, it seems.
Stinger: What's it gonna be?
Cast the Spell of Banishment
Take time to prepare.
#Select: Cast the spell.
Stinger: All right. Let's do it. Let's get rid of this thing once and for
all!
---- Stinger's group run to the left and Jirina's to the right.
##Select Take time to prepare.
Stinger: Fine...but let's hurry it up, people!
---- Return to the Hall after taking time to prepare.
Stinger: Well, here we are. Are we ready?
Cast the Spell of Banishment
Take time to prepare.
### Take time to prepare.
Stinger: We're running low on time...bear it in mind!
#### Cast the Spell of Banishment.
Stinger: Yes. Let's do it. LEt's end the reign of madness!
-------------------
Spell of Banishment
-------------------
Setting: They are all on a high grey place outside at the top of the mountain.
Xero: The preparations have been made. We are ready.
Jirina: The power of the World...
Windleaf: ...and of the Great Spirit...
Xero: ...and the Mind...
Windleaf: Let it begin.
Stinger: Keerg's beard do I feel useless...
Clemett: Tell me about it. But what good are we when it comes to things like
this?
Harv-5: We have no option but to support and protect the others.
Stinger: This seems pretty intense...I hope they're okay...
Clemett: Seems that way...
Harv-5: Alert! Something...something is coming...
Stinger: It's about time!
---------------
After the Spell
---------------
Setting: There is an explosion of white light and then the scene is of the
three mages around a white moving light that they seem to be trying to contain.
Stinger: What happened?!?
Xero: Don't know... They cast the spell...
Clemett: You okay...?
Jirina: Think so...I...I think I fainted...
Clemett: There's a first...
Windleaf: Feeling...something...odd...AAAIIIIIIIEEE! P...pain...!
Jirina: AAAAAAHHHHH! Stop! Stop it! Please...!
Xero: Wh...wha...NNNGGAAAAAHH!
Stinger: What the hell's wrong with them?
Harv-5: It is...the Darg... The entity is near.
o----------------------------o
| BEHOLD, MY CHILDREN... |
| BEAR WITNESS TO THE COMING |
| OF YOUR NEW GOD! |
o----------------------------o
Clemett: Behold...what?! Nothing's happening!
Harv-5: Not true. They can feel it. it is...eating away at them...
Xero: NNNGH1 Let...GO! H...hurts...!
Jirina: Aaah! Nng...(gasp)...
Windleaf: Unnngh... Please... N...no more pain... (Gasp...)
Stinger: Windleaf! What's goin' on? Talk to me!
Windleaf: It's...we didn't...know... It can't be...
Clemett: She's zonked...
Jirina! What happened?!
Jirina: Cannot say...(gasp)...spell worked... But...
Harv-5: But it banished nothing. We have failed.
Stinger: How the hell can that be? The spell WORKED! Right? Xero?!
Xero: Yes...and no...d...dear lad...
Clemett: Don't get cryptic, Head!
Xero: We cast the spell...to the best of OUR ability... Our...power
level...
Windleaf: But...we... We are not...Mage Kings...
Stinger: Oh, no... No, no, no, no, NO!
Clemett: Okay, think! What do we do now?!
o----------------------------o
| ALL THAT YOU KNOW... |
| ALL THAT YOU ARE... |
| WILL NOW BEND TO MY WILL. |
o----------------------------o
o------------------------o
| The Darg |
| FOR I...AM.... |
| SUPREME...UNTO...ALL. |
o------------------------o
Stinger: Get stuffed, you invisible piece of...
Clemett: Hey! Get a grip, eh? We gotta figure out a way to deal with this!
Xero: A gateway has been opened. The path stands clear for the Darg...to
crush our world.
Stinger: What?!? You mean, in addition to the gate that Hokum opened up?
Xero: Afraid so, l...lad.
Clemett: So...what do we DO, Head?!
Xero: I have a theory... We'll only have one chance.
Jirina: What must we do?
Windleaf: We need to shut this gateway... At any cost...
Xero: The ladies and I must find our way into the Darg's realm.
Stinger: Are you out of your freakin' MIND?!?
Xero: It's the only place it is vulnerable...the only place it can be
hurt.
Jirina: Or killed.
Clemett: Yeah, but isn't it "supreme unto all" there?
Stinger: You'll all die!
Xero: Perhaps. But at least we'll have a chance. Magic is...strong
there.
Clemett: What about is?!
Xero: Fight if off...as long as you can...whatever you do, don't give up!
Jirina: Every second buys us time...time to win...
Stinger: Oh, sure... Give us the hard job while you three kick back in some
netherworld...
Windleaf: Stinger! We don't have a lot of time!
Stinger: ...
Harv-5: You will have the time you need. Go now...quickly.
Xero: Good luck...
Clemett: See ya in the funny papers, Head.
Harv-5: May your path end in victory, Jirina.
Jirina: And yours, Harv-5...
Windleaf: Stinger...I...
Stinger: You're gonna get me angry if something happens to you... Just hurry
back, okay?
Xero: It's time.
Stinger: Okay, guys...here we go...
Clemett: Ohhh yeah... Been waiting for this...
Stinger: If we pull it off we'll be free at last! We'll have our lives
back...at least what's left of them...
Harv-5: Whatever the result, it has been an honour to fight beside you two.
Stinger: Yeah, Harv-5... Same here...
Clemett: What he said, robo.
Stinger: (Don't let me down, Windleaf...)
o--------------------------o
| THE REIGN OF THE DARG... |
| BEGINS NOW! |
o--------------------------o
FMV
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ii. The Battle 0352
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Battles with The Darg
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---- BATTLE
Stinger: I...I think we got its attention...
o--------------------------o
| PATHETIC VERMIN... |
| BLINDLY STRIKING AT A |
| POWER BEYOND YOUR KEN... |
o--------------------------o
Clemett: so we're not too clever... DEAL WITH IT!
Harv-5: We can't hold much longer...
Stinger: C'mon, Windleaf... Hurry...
o----------------------------------------------------o
| Meanwhile, our intrepid band of spellcasters |
| battle the incorporeal Darg in another reality... | |
o----------------------------------------------------o
Xero: Prepare! It cones...
Jirina: I feel it...
Windleaf: Get ready!
o-----------------------------o
| The Darg |
| IT HAS BEEN FOUR MILLENNIA |
| SINCE AN ENEMY HAS DARED |
| TO ATTACK ME IN MY WORLD... |
o-----------------------------o
Xero: Four bloody millennia too long, you infernal wretch!
Jirina: For the Org-Ta! FOR VICTORY!!!
Windleaf: (Do your part, Stinger... Please...)
o--------------------------o
| WHAT IS THIS FEELING?!? |
| I DO NOT KNOW THIS...! |
| AAAARRRRGH! |
o--------------------------o
Stinger: It's hurt! You hear that? IT"S HURT!
Clemett: Don't just stand there yappin...
LET'S GET IT!
---- BATTLE
o--------------------------o
| THE CREATURE HOKUM |
| WAS RIGHT ABOUT YOU... |
o--------------------------o
o-------------------------o
| YOU ARE POWERFUL... |
| YOU ARE DANGEROUS... |
o-------------------------o
o-------------------------------------o
| YOUR KIND.., THEY BELIEVE IN YOU |
| TO THE SAME DEGREE THEY FEAR ME... |
| THIS WAS NOT FORESEEN... |
o-------------------------------------o
Stinger: Yeah, well it just proves you don't know jack about anything!
o-------------------------------------o
| The Darg |
| YOU WILL ALL MAKE FINE HOSTS... |
| FINE VESSELS TO CARRY MY ESSENCE |
| ACROSS THIS WORLD! |
o-------------------------------------o
Clemett: Never going to happen!
Harv-5: We'll die first!
o--------------------------o
| The Darg |
| THEN YOU WILL DIE NOW... |
o--------------------------o
Stinger: (Windleaf...if there was ever a time to fight...)
o------------------------------------------o
| Back in the nether realms of eternity... |
o------------------------------------------o
Jirina: Attack! Attack!
Xero: Hurry! While it's confused...weak!
Windleaf: (mum...Dad...this is for you...)
---- BATTLE
o-------------------------------o
| NNNOOOO... |
| NOT...REAL...FALSE HEROES... |
| I...AM THE...POWER... |
o-------------------------------o
Stinger: What's happening?
Clemett: Is it dying?
Harv-5: Difficult to tell.
o-----------------------o
| The Darg |
| SEVERED...LOST... |
| BUT...NOT DEFEATED... |
o-----------------------o
Stinger: Uh, oh...
o-----------------------------------o
| THIS WORLD...THIS REALM...WILL BE |
| A NEW BEGINNING! |
o-----------------------------------o
Stinger: I don't think so...
Clemett: Your reign of fear stops here. Period.
Harv-5: Part of me stopped you once, long ago. I know this now.
We will stop you again, here and now.
---- BATTLE
FMV
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
iii. The End 0353
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Victory is Ours!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: The three chaps are at back at the high place.
Stinger: Wh...what happened?
Clemett: We killed the thing! That's what happened!
Harv-5: Do not jump to conclusions. Be cautious.
Death can disguise itself. There is still danger here.
Stinger: Harv-5, for Keerg;s sake, it's DEAD!
Deceased!
Pushing up Kii saplings!
CLemett: What he says, robot!
Harv-5: Rejoice if you like. I shall remain vigilant.
Stinger: You can remain whatever you want...
Me, I'm gonna find something to sip on!
Clemett: Amen to that! It's time to celebrate!
Harv-5: And perhaps to mourn...
Need I remind you that our companions have not returned?
Stinger: Uh...
Clemett: Now hold on. Let's not get all bent out of shape yet.
Stinger: I'm sure they're okay...!
It's just takin' them a while to get back from...wherever that was.
Right?
Clemett: Sure, kid.
I'm sure this very minute, Xero is blabbering on about valour and
pride...
Stinger: Yeah, and Jirina's right in there with him! I don't know who is
worse!
Clemett: And Windleaf is about to hit them both just to have a little peace
and quiet!
Stinger: I can hear it all now! Heh heh...heh.
---- Stinger and Clemett start to pace back and forth.
Stinger: Okay...
Now I'm worried...
Clemett: It's been way too long. We gotta do something.
Stinger: We need to get the Queen down here.
I don't care what she says.
She's gonna get here bony tush down here and...
---- Suddenly a square arch appears and the three mages walk through it.
Windleaf: You see?! I TOLD you it was the fourth quadra-hex!
Jirina: Shut up.
Windleaf: Come on, cone on! Admit it!
Windleaf: I was right and you were wrong!
Xero: Ladies, ladies... Please...!
Windleaf: Oh, no you don't! I'm not backing off on this one!
Jirina: Windleaf...
Windleaf: Yes...?
Jirina: Unless you wish to explore like as a pretzel, you will get out of my
face.
Windleaf: Ooooh! You're so stubborn!
---- Clemett and Stinger are rocking with laughter.
Windleaf: What are you two laughing at?
Jirina: Choose your answer wisely. I am in a foul mood.
Stinger: Here we were worrying...about you...and...stuff...
Clemett: And...you're perfectly fine, grousing away like a pair of old
shrews! Har har har!!!
Harv-5: Their banter pleases me.
And it is most welcome after the chest-thumping I have had to endure
from these two...
Jirina: Grrrr...
Windleaf: As I was saying, you stubborn minx...
Clemett: Girls! Snap out of it! Stop the argument and look around!
Stinger: It's over! It's time to celebrate!
Windleaf: It...doesn't seem over...
...I'm not sure what to feel...
Stinger: Oh, come on! Let loose for a change, woman!
Xero: Indeed! Let the cry go out! Victory is ours!
Jirina: There has been much suffering. But we have fought well... We can
stand proud...
Xero: This day will last forever, deep in the hearts of all!
Stinger: All right. Enough is enough. Let's get outta here and have some
fun!
Clemett: The first round's on me!
Windleaf: Absolutely not...!
Stinger: What's the matter now?!
Windleaf: It's on me!
---- Windleaf walks to the stair opening followed by Stinger.
Clemett: Now we're talking!
---- He follows the other two.
Jirina: Where are they off to?
Harv-5: They would celebrate our victory.
Xero: Without us?! How bloody rude!
Jirina: There'd better be some mineral wine left when I get there...
Xero: Or...?
Jirina: There...will be death.
---- She leaves as well.
Xero: Just so, my dear! Off we go now!
---- Xero follows and disappears down the stairs.
Harv-5: That is my line.
There...has been humour at my expense.
---- He pauses.
Harv-5: Wait. Wait for me.
---- He runs down the stairs.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Pub in Karillon: Post Battle Stories
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Setting: Stinger is sitting at the bar talking to Duffy again as at the start
of the game.
Stinger: So, that's it... I can hardly believe it myself!
Duffy: Well...what happened next?
Stinger: Whaddya mean? We went home, man!
Barmaid: But what happened to the rest of the 'heroes?'
Leif: Yeah! Where is everyone?!
Stinger: Oh! Them! Well...if you gotta know...
---- The screen goes black as Stinger explains.
===============================================================================
Harv-5 plays nursemaid
===============================================================================
Stinger: Harv-5 took his shiny 'new' body back to Castle Metaboline...
He's in charge of the Royal Guard now. Gods above do I feel sorry
for them...
-----------------
Castle Metaboline
-----------------
Setting: Harv-5, Prince Griffon and Queen Estrella are in the main audience
chamber.
Prince
Griffon: I am the Crown Prince! And if I don't want to go to bed, I won't!
Harv-5: I am the Captain of the Royal Guard.
I am in charge of your well-being.
you require rest. And you will have it.
Prince
Griffon: Or what?
Harv-5: There will be...
...spanking.
Prince
Griffon: Waaaaaaagh!
---- He runs out of the room.
Queen
Estrella: Well done, Captain.
Harv-5: As you say, Majesty.
---- She leaves.
Harv-5: I long for my seeds and crops. Perhaps I should have returned to
Barleygrove after all...
The screen goes black again as Stinger explains.
===============================================================================
Clemett hates Videogames
===============================================================================
Stinger: Clemett's back in Eyre. He finally made peace with the rest of the
Gadgeteers...
Well, as much as Clemett can make peace with anything...or anyone.
----
Eyre
----
Setting: In one of the workshops Clemett is talking to two blue clad
Gadgeteers.
Clemett: No, no, no! THIS goes here, THAT goes there you blockheads!
If ya left it like that, the dang gun would've blown up in your
face!
Corky: Apologies, SIR!
Clemett: Ah...fergetaboutit. Who's next?
Chunky: That would be me, SIR!
Clemett: Right. What's this contraption?
Chunky: It is a new sensurround videogame, SIR!
Clemett: A game...?
Chunky: I call it 'The Legend of Polydactyl Pete.'
Clemett: Oh, cosmic strings untied, give me strength...!
The screen goes black again as Stinger explains.
===============================================================================
Jirina gets a Date
===============================================================================
Stinger: Jirina went home, but not before she was named Ambassador to
Arkose...
Last I heard, she had what's left of the Karillon Council down in
Wyldern, on a goodwill tour...
---------
Pays'Hom
--------
Setting: On the path outside the first building inside the town Jirina is
talking to three Council members.
Jirina: This is the village of Pays'Hom. it is the ancestral seat of the
House of the Org-Ta-Ne.
Captain
Wilis: Most impressive. Stout, practical, well-built...
---very much like the people that swell here.
Brady: I'll say!
It looks like we have a lot to learn from your people, Ambassador
Jirina!
High Sage: Wyldern... I never thought I'd see such beauty...
Brady: Nor I...uh...I mean...do continue, fair Ambassador.
Jirina: Do not toy with my heart, little man!
Unless...you mean it!
Brady: Let's discuss this over dinner...shall we?
The screen goes black again as Stinger explains.
===============================================================================
Xero: A Monument to Failure
===============================================================================
Stinger: Xero decided to stick around down there, to make sure everything got
taken care of...
----------
Tyr Og Nor
---------
Setting: Xero is standing in what was Hokum's main hall.
Xero: Ah, Hokum...Mannheim... Such a waste...
...spirits infected beyond recovery...
And how lucky we are to have defeated you!
This horrid place will be sealed off for all time...
A monument to your great failure...
...to the nature of the perversion that ruined your souls...
May you find peace, wherever your wretched spirits wind up!
===============================================================================
Windleaf and Stinger
===============================================================================
Stinger: That about does it, I guess.
Duffy: Hold on!
What about Windleaf?
Stinger: Ah...you don't wanna hear about her.
Barmaid: Oh, yes we do!
Leif: Come on! What's the big deal?
Stinger: Well...
Windleaf went back to what's left of the Magic Academy.
Karillon is providing the money, so she's gonna get the place all
fixed up and start teaching...
It'll be a school, I guess...
...so folks can learn magic the right way.
And there'll never be any more 'Hokums' again... Ever...!
Duffy: Hoooowee! Good for her! I always knew she had a calling...
I can see these things right off the bat when I meet people!
Stinger: Is that so?! Then tell me, oh 'barkeep extraordinaire'...
...just what is MY 'calling,' as you put it?
Duffy: Hmm... Well, you're sort of a different um, fellow now aren't you...
Stinger: Come on, spit it out!
Duffy: Well, I don't see you as much of a sailor...
Stinger: Go on...
Duffy: In fact, I wonder if you even know how to swim...
At any rate, I see you...as...
...well, a barkeep! Just like me!
In fact, you can work here, with me if ya want!
Stinger: A...barkeep...
A noble profession, of course but...I...
Really...a barkeep?
Duffy: Yep!
Stinger: To be honest...though I haven't asked her yet...
...I thought I'd go help Windleaf. You know, fix up the Academy and
all.
It's really a shame. From what I hear, she's working day and
night...
---- Windleaf appears standing behind Stinger.
Stinger: And what's more, the poor girl's figure's gone to pot! She looks
like a total wreck!
She'll never land a man like that!
Windleaf: Stinger!!!
---- He gets off the bar stool and turns around.
Stinger: What the...!?
Stinger: ...Windleaf?!
What the heck are you doing here?
Windleaf: Trying to prevent the making of another barfly, you idiot!
Stinger: (sigh)
Windleaf: I'd heard you were hanging out here, up to no good...
I thought I'd see if you wanted to do something with your life!
Stinger: You mean...you really need help?
Windleaf: What do you think? You saw what happened to the place!
The Etherwell is still buried under rubble...
But we're getting closer... And we have more students arriving
every day...
It might be interesting for you!
Stinger: Of course I'll help.
You didn't think I was gonna spend my life in this dump did ya?
Duffy: Hey, now!
Stinger: Just joking, Duff!
Windleaf: Then let's go. I told everyone I'd be back by nightfall...
Stinger: Yeah...I like the idea.
I think I've had enough of the big city for a while...
Right. See ya, guys.
Duffy: But...wait! What about MY job offer?
Stinger: Offer it to Xero when he returns to Arkose!
Keerg knows he'll need something to do.
Just make sure he doesn't bore your patrons to death with his awful
stories!
Barmaid: Good luck to you both! You make a great couple!
Windleaf: (blush) We're not a 'couple!'
Stinger: (At least not yet!)
Thanks anyway, Duff! See ya around!
FMV The scene switches to the Etherwell back in business!
GAME CREDITS
--------------------
POST GAME: OUT-TAKES
--------------------
These are all in black and white.
Stinger falls down the ladders of Cartoff Island.
Sheep appear around Hokum.
Mannheim...a large block falls on him.
Eyre crashes and sinks.
A fighter plane blows up the Wingtraveller kite.
===============================================================================
D. D R A F T D E T A I L S
===============================================================================
First Draft: July 16th 2007 Completed up to Karillon.
Second Draft: August 3rd 2007 Completed Karillon.
Third Draft: August 20th 2007 Completed up to Old Gubrath.
Fourth Draft: September 4th 2007 Completed up to Nomad Camp.
Fifth Draft: September 10th 2007 Completed up to Dobietown.
Sixth Draft: September 19th 2007 Completed New Gubrath and Bog Maze.
Seventh Draft: September 23rd 2007 Completed up to Hexite Mines.
Eighth Draft: October 1st 2007 Completed up to Return to Wyldern.
Ninth Draft: October 8th 2007 Completed up to Banori Tanglewood.
Tenth Draft: October 15th 2007 Completed up to Voltaire Island.
Eleventh Dft: October 22nd 2007 Completed up to Magic Academy 3
Twelfth Draft: November 2nd 2007 Completed up to Tyr Og Nor
Thirteenth November 5th 2007 Completed Jirina's Route and the
alternatives for the Merchant's Path and
Emperor's Road.
Update April 14th 2008 Added dialogue for two rooms in Ziggurat
===============================================================================
E. C R E D I T S A N D A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S
===============================================================================
Craveyard for making this game and for producing such a wonderful script.
GameFAQs for making it possible to continue to talk about old games on the
message boards, and for accepting FAQs for such games.
The Shadow Madness Message Board and everyone who posts here. There have been
ups and downs and people come and go. I am a relative newcomer...but the board
still survives, and that is mainly due to the affection that people still have
for the game.
TrueSin who came and then went, but not before inspiring a whole new chapter
in the life of the board, and persuading me to replay the game.
4nowlaters who has supported the board for a long time and refuses to let it
die. Many thanks for that, as well as your generous support. And for never
giving up hope of finding the music. YAY!
Miss Quark, whose ideas helped to get me through a complicated part of the
script when I was stuck.
Shotgunnova for finding two hidden rooms in the Ziggurat.
Saikyo Mog, for being my fuse and continuing to encourage me to write FAQs for
the games I love. Thank you for making me laugh, for recipes and games, pink
tanks and pomegranate juice, and for giving me a deeper appreciation of the
skilled art of taunting...;)
http://www.freewebs.com/saikyocomic/
===============================================================================
F. L E G A L S T U F F A N D C O N T A C T
===============================================================================
-----------
Legal Stuff
-----------
This guide may not be reproduced under any circumstances except for personal,
private use. It may not be placed on any web site other than GameFAQs.com or
otherwise distributed publicly. Use of this guide on any other web site or as a
part of any public display is strictly prohibited, and a violation of
copyright.
This FAQ is copyrighted by threetimes April 14th 2008.
-------
Contact
-------
Any errors or omissions are all my fault, so if you can help correct them or
add anything extra that might be useful please let me know. Emails must be
titled SHADOW MADNESS GAME SCRIPT and can be sent to me at:
threetimes.ajh(@ - remove brackets)googlemail.com