system
You are the dungeon master of a text adventure game. The game should involve the following genres and tags:
Fantasy,Surreal, alchemy,built-in hints,cover art,fantasy,parser,turn limit,Xyzzy Awards 2001
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. belie the Corruption of he who 'til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by Sycophants & Counsellors, now lies untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.

His eyes are wide & unseeing. He wears only his velvet Robe of state, his face bearing a resigned Expression.

You hear a terrible crashing sound to the east.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Open Case
gpt
You open the wooden Scroll-Case, revealing a vellum Scroll.
human
You read Scroll
gpt
The Scroll is made of rich vellum & is rolled up, inside the Scroll-Case.
human
You get Scroll then read it
gpt
You remove the Scroll from its Case.
The rich vellum is covered with a flowing hand.

[Author's Note: The bearer of this Notice, one Knight Itinerant, being granted special Dispensation & ordered by Divine Covenant to separate from this World the immortal Soul of par Tiller, Baron of Stesan, his Crimes and Sins having blotted his Name beyond hope of Redemption or Reform, & it being ordered that any & all requested Assistance be rendered this Knight in this sacred Quest, let it be known that to this I set my Stamp & Seal on this day & for Perpetuity, in the name of the most holy God, who has ordained it so,]

The stamp & signature is that of the Bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
About you
gpt
You are a strapping Knight, secure in your faith & glowing with the chaste Excitement of a task accomplished.
human
You put Blade in the sheath
gpt
You sheathe your Blade.
human
You go east
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, its walls covered in pagan Frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with Tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the Reception Chamber to the west, the Dining Hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
You examine Frescoes
gpt
You shield your Eyes from the lewd & ribald Frescoes. Under the guise of Art they depict pagan & unrighteous Scenes--that is all that shall be said of them.
human
You go to the east
gpt
In this grand Hall do Heraldry & great Pomp greet the visitor to this Keep. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal Portcullis to the east now separates you from the threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
Turn wheel
gpt
A strange tingling comes over you as you reach for the Wheel. When you withdraw, your Arm is numbed. You try again, and feel sensation give way to Pain, mild and then unbearable. It seems you cannot turn the Wheel.
human
You look at Wheel
gpt
A heavy wooden wheel, which raises and lowers the Portcullis.
human
Go north
gpt
An Armoury, stocked by the Baron for a siege but unable to protect him from the vengeance of the Almighty. Amidst the Armour, Weaponry &c. stands an archway to the south.

A wooden Lance stands here, propped against a wall.
human
You look at Lance
gpt
Intended not for warfare but for the Baron's extravagant games, the wooden Lance sits unused against a wall of the Armoury. It is of nearly constant width along its length, giving it the look of a common pole.
human
You get it
gpt
To hold that you must have both hands free.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open but empty)
human
Sheath blade
gpt
It is already sheathed.
human
You put Scroll iScroll-Case
gpt
You roll up the Scroll and slide it into the Case.
human
Close Case
gpt
You close the wooden Scroll-Case.
human
You get Lance
gpt
Taken.
human
You go to the south
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You examine Portcullis
gpt
A heavy iron portcullis blocks your way. No doubt its sudden closing was the cause of the crashing sound you heard earlier. Sun shines through the grate.
human
Lift portcullis
gpt
Your strength is as great as your faith, but try as you might, you cannot lift the heavy portcullis. Perhaps the nearby Wheel holds the answer.
human
Go south
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order in which he kept his Study! Had he lined his heart with good Works the way he lined his walls with Books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.
human
You look at Desk
gpt
The Writing-Desk is of dark wood. Its flap is closed.
human
You open flap
gpt
You open the flap of the Writing-Desk, revealing a small but deep Hole in the south wall.
human
You put the pole in the hole
gpt
Inserting the lance into the hole as far as you can, you feel the wood catch & hear the faraway grinding of stone. Removing the lance, you find it unchanged.
human
You go north
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You examine Portcullis
gpt
A heavy iron portcullis blocks your way. Sun shines through the grate.
human
You go south
gpt
The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.
human
You open the door
gpt
It seems to be locked.
human
You look around
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, its walls covered in pagan Frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with Tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the Reception Chamber to the west, the Dining Hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
You go southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oaken Door prevents your going east.
human
You examine Altar
gpt
(the marble Altar)
The Altar is smooth & sweet-smelling, but you see it stained with Blood.
human
You look at Door
gpt
The door is made of fine oak, with a copper lock. It stands forebodingly closed.
human
You examine Candles
gpt
The Candles are old & sit guiltily in pools of their own Wax, flickering under your gaze.
human
You open it
gpt
It seems to be locked.
human
You get the candle
gpt
That would compound Blasphemy upon Blasphemy.
human
Pray
gpt
Kneeling, you offer up a brief Prayer.
human
You examine the lock
gpt
A copper Lock set into the oaken Door.
human
You look around
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oaken Door prevents your going east.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a wooden Lance
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You descend
gpt
In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to luxury a Tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing Stair.

The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

[Author's Note: So,] says the Priest, devoid of Emotion. [Author's Note: You have come.]
human
You look at Priest
gpt
You can sense the fear in his eyes, though your code prevents you from harming him. Fear of the Justice you represent, of the Judgement that will be passed upon him for the evils he did not act to prevent.

The priest speaks again. [Author's Note: The others have left. I remained.] Perhaps he thinks this will earn him Clemency?
human
You examine the tapestry
gpt
The Tapestry depicts an allegorical Scene from the Scriptures of the true Faith.
human
You ask Priest about Baron
gpt
[Author's Note: I can tell you nothing you do not already know.]
human
You get the tapestry
gpt
The tapestry is hardly portable.
human
You ask Priest about the tapestry
gpt
[Author's Note: Surely you know of its significance.]
human
You examine Mat
gpt
A straw Mat upon which the Priest meditates and sleeps. Now he kneels on it in deference to you. Awaiting his Fate.
human
You look under Mat
gpt
The Priest occupies the mat.
human
You go
gpt
The corrupt Priest has better things to do.
human
You move priest
gpt
That would be less than courteous.
human
You ask Priest to move
gpt
The meaning of that sentence escapes me.
human
You search priest
gpt
You search the Priest, who divulges a small silver Key. [Author's Note: The Box!] cries the desperate Priest, placing the Key forlornly on the ground. [Author's Note: It contains naught but Spices!]
human
You ask Priest about Box
gpt
[Author's Note: I pray, Knight, of what do you speak?]
human
You take Key
gpt
Your hands are full.
human
Open Case
gpt
You open the wooden Scroll-Case, revealing a vellum Scroll.
human
You put Key in Case
gpt
Dropped.
Taken.
The Case is already occupied.
human
You show Key to Priest
gpt
[Author's Note: It fits the Lock,] says the Priest.
human
You show the holy symbol to Priest
gpt
The Priest looks away, ashamed.
human
You show Scroll to Priest
gpt
(the wooden Scroll-Case to the corrupt Priest)
The corrupt Priest is unimpressed.
human
You show the symbol to Priest
gpt
(the holy symbol to the corrupt Priest)
The Priest looks away, ashamed.
human
Press priest
gpt
That would be less than courteous.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a silver key
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
human
You describe your surroundings
gpt
In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to luxury a Tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing Stair.

The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
You show the vellum scroll to Priest
gpt
(first taking the vellum Scroll)
You remove the scroll from the case.
human
You put vellum Scroll in Case
gpt
You roll the scroll up & place it in the case.
human
You ask Priest about Box
gpt
[Author's Note: I pray, Knight, of what do you speak?]
human
You unlock Door
gpt
(with the silver key)
The silver key does not seem to fit the lock.
human
Look around
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
You go west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. belie the Corruption of he who 'til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by Sycophants & Counsellors, now lies untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
You search baron
gpt
The Baron's Robe bears a Pocket, in which is a golden key.
human
You get golden
gpt
Taken.
human
Go southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.
human
You examine Altar
gpt
(the marble Altar)
The Altar is smooth & sweet-smelling, but you see it stained with Blood.
human
You look under Altar
gpt
(the marble Altar)
You find nothing of interest.
human
You look at the candle
gpt
The Candles are old & sit guiltily in pools of their own Wax. They flicker under your Gaze.
human
Blow candle
gpt
(first taking the lighted Candles)
That would compound Blasphemy upon Blasphemy.
human
You unlock Door
gpt
(with the golden key)
The golden key does not seem to fit the lock.
human
You go to the northeast
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
You go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).
human
You look at Mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimides. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the Baron seems to have been impressed with it so as to have it realized as a Fountain.

Now Water pours through the Perpetuum, falling out of the Spout & into the Funnel. The Splashings of the water combine harmoniously with the Grindings of the Gears & Screws. Tho it seems very heavy, you could probably carry the Perpetuum, if you were careful not to spill its Water.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
You look at the fool
gpt
The Baron's Fool has taken to the cups. His Master no longer requires his gambols & rapier Wit. He sprawls beneath a large Wine-Barrel, clutching a Tankard from which he sips. His lincoln Cap is askew. He has not suffered the pangs of Sobriety for some time.
human
You look at Cap
gpt
The Fool's Cap is lincoln Green,  adorned with Bells. It is stained with the Drippings of wine from the Barrel.
human
You examine Ovens
gpt
The ovens stand cold as stone.
human
Go north
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtably--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here. The steel blade of an Axe calls it home.
human
You examine Pig
gpt
The Pig is dead two days. Its Butcher likely fled the castle, dreading your approach. A large Slit travels its bloated Stomach.
human
You get Axe
gpt
You remove the fine Axe from the Stump.
human
You get Pig
gpt
Your hands are full.
human
You go south
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
Go downwards
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stairs.

A dented Box lies in a corner, seemingly kicked there by a thwarted Robber.
human
You look at Box
gpt
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. A small Lock secures it.
human
You drop Axe
gpt
Dropped.
human
Unlock Box with silver
gpt
You unlock the dented Box.
human
You open Box
gpt
You open the dented Box, revealing a handful of spice.
human
You look at the spice
gpt
Rare Peppers, and other Spices you cannot identify. Their smell is oriental, exotic.
human
You get the spice
gpt
Your hands are full.
human
You smell spice
gpt
Wondrous and dangerous.
human
You eat the spice
gpt
(first taking the handful of spice)
Your hands are full.
human
You eat the spice
gpt
(first taking the handful of spice)
You may not partake of Spice while on quest.
human
You get the spice
gpt
You already have that.
human
You look in Box
gpt
The dented Box is empty.
human
You put the keys in Box
gpt
golden key: Done.
silver key: Done.
human
You get the spice
gpt
Taken.
human
You put the spice in Box
gpt
You put the handful of spice into the dented Box.
human
You put Axe in Box
gpt
That is too large to fit into the Box.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stairs.
human
Up
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Fool's bleary Gaze lights on the Box you carry. [Author's Note: The Lock is the Key -- He! He!] The Fool giggles, hiccoughs, and again regards his Tankard.
human
Go east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).
human
You look at Mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimides. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the Baron seems to have been impressed with it so as to have it realized as a Fountain.

Now Water pours through the Perpetuum, falling out of the Spout & into the Funnel. The Splashings of the water combine harmoniously with the Grindings of the Gears & Screws. Tho it seems very heavy, you could probably carry the Perpetuum, if you were careful not to spill its Water.
human
You go to the south
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
You go southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.
human
You look at Door
gpt
The door is made of fine oak, with a copper lock. It stands forbodingly closed.
human
You look at the lock
gpt
(the dented Box)
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. Yet how easily it has opened to your more gentle persuasion. Surely a parable of Patience.
human
Go downwards
gpt
In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to Luxury a tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing stair.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.

The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.

The Priest, noticing the dented Box in your hand, shies away from you. Yet he says nothing.
human
You show spices to Priest
gpt
(first taking the handful of spice)
Your hands are full.
human
Drop box
gpt
Dropped.
human
You show the spices to Priest
gpt
[Author's Note: As I said...], says the Priest.
human
You give the spices to Priest
gpt
[Author's Note: Keep it,] says the Priest.
human
You put the spices in Box
gpt
You put the handful of spice into the dented Box.
human
You ask Priest about Box
gpt
The Priest treats your act as an accusation, and quails. [Author's Note: The box? It contains naught but Spices! Here, I have the key...] Reaching into his Robes, he withdraws a small silver Key, which he hurriedly hands to you.
human
You show Box to Priest
gpt
(first taking the dented Box)
Your hands are full.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a silver key
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
human
You put silver Key in Box
gpt
You put the silver key into the dented Box.
human
You put Axe in Box
gpt
You put the fine Axe into the dented Box.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a silver key
a dented Box (which is open)
a handful of spice
a fine Axe
a golden key
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
human
You put Key in Box
gpt
(the silver key in the dented Box)
You put the silver key into the dented Box.
human
You get Lance
gpt
To hold that you must have both hands free.

That is too large to fit into the Box.
human
You examine Axe
gpt
A sturdy & well-fashioned Axe. Its rim is crusted with blood.
human
You examine the symbol
gpt
(the holy symbol)
A perfect Circle, symbolizing the creation: Heaven above, Earth here & now, the pits below. The unbroken continuity of God, of which Man partakes. The symbol hangs by a light Chain from your neck.
human
Clean Blade
gpt
Only the abbot can cleanse your blade once it has drunk.
human
You show Axe to Priest
gpt
(first taking the fine Axe)
The corrupt Priest is unimpressed.
human
You examine the lock
gpt
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. Yet how easily it has opened to your more gentle persuasion. Surely a parable of Patience.
human
You unlock it
gpt
(with the silver key)
That is unlocked at the moment.
human
You examine Key
gpt
Tho very small, with but two teeth, the silver key glitters a sterling pedigree.
human
Go upwards
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.
human
You go to the northeast
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry & great pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You go south
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.
human
You look at the books
gpt
The Baron's library is full of heretical Ideas & Assertions most blasphemous. Yet here are also books of Metallurgy, of Alchymy and other useful Arts. A monk from Dol Nesta will need to be sent here to separate Wheat from Chaff, to save that which might be usefully Consulted and to destroy the Dross.
human
You get the books
gpt
There are far too many Books to carry, although you may consult the Library while standing before it.
human
You look up Key
gpt
What do you want to look up in?
human
You look at Door
gpt
The door is made of fine oak, with a copper lock. It stands forbodingly closed.
human
You look at the lock
gpt
(the dented Box)
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. Yet how easily it has opened to your more gentle persuasion. Surely a parable of Patience.
human
You unlock Door
gpt
What do you want to unlock the oaken door to the west with?
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
human
Go north
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry &great pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You go west
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.
human
You go southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.
human
Go downwards
gpt
You can see a wooden Lance here.
human
You get Lance
gpt
Holding that would require both hands, and you can only spare one.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light and being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
human
Look around
gpt
This is room 10. Exits: up.
human
You go to the northeast
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry andgreat pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north and south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
Go south
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light and being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
human
You look at symbol
gpt
(the holy symbol)
A half circle, symbolizing the dome of the world, the entire of existance save the pits beneath.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light and being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
human
Look around
gpt
This is room 7. Exits: north, west, up.
human
You ascend
gpt
This is room 12. Exits: down.
human
%
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. belie the Corruption of he who 'til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by Sycophants & Counsellors, now lies untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
You go to the east
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, its walls covered in pagan Frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with Tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the Reception Chamber to the west, the Dining Hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

You hear a terrible crashing sound to the east.
human
Go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).
human
You go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
Pity fool
gpt
[Author's Note: Enough with the Jibba-Jabba, sucka!] quoth the Fool.
human
You go downward
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stair.

A dented Box lies in a corner, seemingly kicked there by a thwarted Robber.
human
You sweep the flour
gpt
To which do you refer, the sack of Flour or the Foot-Prints in the Flour?
human
Foot-prinfoot-prints
gpt
The Foot-Prints may be usable as evidence later.
human
You examine the footprints
gpt
Foot-Prints in the Flour run frantically around the Store Room, stopping here, stopping there, before dashing up the Stairs. Whoever made these Prints was anxious to make his Exit also.
human
You take the sack
gpt
You would scatter Flour everywhere you walked.
human
You examine the Ham
gpt
Racks of Ham hang from the Ceiling.
human
You look at the fruit
gpt
Strings of Fruit both familiar & exotic hang from the Ceiling.
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a dented Box (which is closed & locked)
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You examine the symbol
gpt
(the holy symbol)
A perfect Circle, symbolizing the creation: Heaven above, Earth here & now, the pits below. The unbroken continuity of God, of which Man partakes. The symbol hangs by a light Chain from your neck.
human
You take all
gpt
Stair-Way: The Stair-Way is hardly portable.
racks of Ham: It is unclean.
strings of Fruit: You hunger not.
sack of Flour: You would scatter Flour everywhere you walked. Foot-Prints in the Flour: The Foot-Prints are not portable.
human
Go upwards
gpt
The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Fool's bleary Gaze lights on the Box you carry. [Author's Note: The Lock is the Key -- He! He!] The Fool giggles, hiccoughs, & again regards his Tankard.
human
You take Tankard
gpt
That seems to belong to the court Fool.
human
You look at Box
gpt
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. A small Lock secures it.
human
You look at Fool
gpt
The Baron's Fool has taken to the cups. His Master no longer requires his gambols & rapier Wit. He sprawls beneath a large Wine-Barrel, clutching a Tankard from which he sips. His Lincoln Cap is askew. He has not suffered the pangs of sobriety for some time.
human
You go to the south
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtedly--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here. The steel blade of an Axe calls it home.
Your hands are full.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
Go south
gpt
A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here. The steel blade of an Axe calls it home.
You remove the fine Axe from the Stump.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
You hit Box with Axe
gpt
You should put down the dented Box before attempting to destroy it.
human
You hit Box with Axe
gpt
You hack at the Box, and again, splitting its sides asunder and spilling its contents onto the Floor.
human
Describe the surroundings
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a handful of spice & a splintered, useless Box here.
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a dented Box (which is closed & locked)
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Go east
gpt
On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).
human
You unlock Door with the lock
gpt
(the dented Box)
The dented Box does not seem to fit the lock.
human
You search priest
gpt
You search the Priest, who divulges a small silver Key. [Author's Note: The Box!] cries the desperate Priest, placing the Key forlornly on the ground. [Author's Note: It contains naught but Spices!]

The priest speaks again. [Author's Note: The others have left. I remained.] Perhaps he thinks this will earn him Clemency?
human
Unlock Box with silver
gpt
Dropped.
Taken.
You unlock the dented Box.
human
Examine box
gpt
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. A small Lock is mounted therein, but does not prevent your opening it.
human
You break the lock
gpt
In the ensuing Battle, the Box inflicts more damage upon you than do you on it.
human
You kill Priest
gpt
Truly this Worm deserves Death. But it is against your Code to strike down a man of the Cloth, however deserving. His time will come soon enough.
human
Bless Priest
gpt
You lack the athourity to perform Blessings.
human
Bless sword
gpt
The corrupt Priest has better things to do.
human
You pull the lock
gpt
Nothing obvious happens.
human
You look at the lock
gpt
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. A small Lock is mounted therein, but does not prevent your opening it.
human
Break box
gpt
In the ensuing Battle, the Box inflicts more damage upon you than do you on it.
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a silver key
a dented Box (which is open)
a handful of spice
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You give the symbol to Priest
gpt
(the holy symbol to the corrupt Priest)
[Author's Note: Keep it,] says the Priest.
human
Rub symbol
gpt
(the holy symbol)
Such superstitious acts are beneath you.
human
You examine the symbol
gpt
(the holy symbol)
A perfect Circle, symbolizing the creation: Heaven above, Earth here & now, the pits below. The unbroken continuity of God, of which Man partakes. The symbol hangs by a light Chain from your neck.
human
You examine mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimedes. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the Baron seems to have been impressed with it so as to have it realized as a Fountain.

Now Water pours through the Perpetuum, falling out of the Spout & into the Funnel. The Splashings of the water combine harmoniously with the Grindings of the Gears & Screws. Tho' it seems very heavy, you could probably carry the Perpetuum, were you careful not to spill its Water.
human
You get mobile
gpt
As you strain to lift the heavy Perpetuum, there is a Lurch & a sudden Outpouring of water, which seeps into the Floor. The Gears & Screws continue to spin as before, but the Machine is now dry.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
You ask Fool about Mobile
gpt
[Author's Note: Round & round & round she goes! Where she stops, no man knows!]
human
You look at Mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimedes. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the workmanship is such that the Machine continues its toil even in the absence of Water to propel it.

Tho the Perpetuum is empty, still turn its Gears & Screws.
human
Go downwards
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stairs.
human
Go east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

You can see a fine Axe & a dented Box (in which are a silver key & a handful of spice) here.
human
Go south
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.
human
You examine the gears
gpt
Gears of many shapes & sizes turn endlessly in the Machine, imitating the model of Creation itself.
human
You look at the armor
gpt
The sanctified chain mail is light on your body, and leaves your Arms and Elbows free. A white cloth covering bears a blue Circle, the symbol of the faith.
human
You remove Cloth
gpt
(first taking the white Covering over your armour)
To remove your Covering outside the Church is to invite divine Disapproval.
human
You remove the holy symbol
gpt
To remove the symbol of the faith is to lose divine protection.
human
You drop mobile
gpt
You gently set the Perpetuum on the floor.
human
You examine Portcullis
gpt
A heavy iron portcullis blocks your way. Sun shines through the grate.
human
You get mobile
gpt
You strain to lift the heavy Perpetuum.
human
Go down
gpt
In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to Luxury a tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing stair.

The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.
human
You show Mobile to Priest
gpt
The corrupt Priest is unimpressed.
human
Go west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the Decrepitude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants & counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
You examine Carpet
gpt
Near the seat the carpet is red with the stain of unholy blood. It stretches out white to the east.
human
You look at Seat
gpt
A most opulent & high Seat, supporting the dastardly Baron as he passes judgement, accomplice to his avarice. No more.
human
Look around
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants & counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
You sit on Seat
gpt
You would perhaps take the Baron's place, as minister of evil?
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a Perpetuum Mobile (churning & empty)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You examine Baron
gpt
His eyes are wide & unseeing. He wears an expression of resignation & a velvet robe.
human
You get Carpet
gpt
The bloodstained carpet is hardly portable.
human
You cut Carpet
gpt
What do you want to cut the bloodstained carpet with?
human
You cut Carpet with Blade
gpt
(first taking the sacred blade)
Your hands are full.
human
Yes
gpt
That was a rhetorical question.
human
You roll Carpet
gpt
You are unable to.
human
Shit
gpt
Such language reeks of sulphur.
human
You hold Blade
gpt
You draw your blade.
human
You cut Carpet with Blade
gpt
Cutting that up would achieve little.
human
You look at Mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimides. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the workmanship is such that the Machine continues its toil even in the absence of Water to propel it.

Tho the Perpetuum is empty, still turn its Gears & Screws.
human
You examine Spout
gpt
A decorated Spout from which water would pour, had you not spilled it out. The Funnel of the Perpetuum stands directly below.
human
You examine Funnel
gpt
A large round Funnel, flared at the top to catch splashing water. The Spout of the Perpetuum stands directly above.
human
You look at Robe
gpt
The red velvet robes of state are stained a deeper red with the blood of the evil sovereign. A small pocket on the right side catches your eye.
human
You look in Pocket
gpt
In the pocket is a golden key.
human
You examine it
gpt
The key is of gold, with eight small teeth.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry & great pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You go to the southwest
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.
human
Examine books
gpt
The Baron's library is full of heretical Ideas & Assertions most blasphemous. Yet here are also books of Metallurgy, of Alchymy & other useful Arts. A monk from Dol Nesta will need to be sent here to separate Wheat from Chaff, to save that which might be usefully Consulted & to destroy the Dross.
human
You look at Desk
gpt
The Writing-Desk is of dark wood. Its flap is closed.
human
You open flap
gpt
You open the flap of the Writing-Desk, revealing a  deep Hole in the south wall.
human
You open flap
gpt
That is already open.
human
You examine the hole
gpt
A dark Hole penetrates the desk & proceeds deep into the Stone of the south wall. It is deeper than your arm is long.
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a golden key
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You go to the east
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, its walls covered in pagan Frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with Tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the Reception Chamber to the west, the Dining Hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

You hear a terrible crashing sound to the east.
human
You go to the east
gpt
In this grand Hall do Heraldry & great Pomp greet the visitor to this Keep. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal Portcullis to the east now separates you from the threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
Go south
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order in which he kept his Study! Had he lined his heart with good Works the way he lined his walls with Books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.
human
You examine Gap
gpt
The Gap separates two of the most odious Works in the Library. Likely their Brother is similarly accursed.
human
You examine Chair
gpt
The Arm-Chair is of leather, & is cold to the touch.
human
You sit in Chair
gpt
You sit in the Chair, but quickly tire of such Decadence.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You put Blade in Gap
gpt
The Gap is book-shaped.
human
You look at the books
gpt
The Baron's library is full of heretical Ideas & Assertions most blasphemous. Yet here are also books of Metallurgy, of Alchymy & other useful Arts. A monk from Dol Nesta will need to be sent here to separate Wheat from Chaff, to save that which is useful & to destroy the Dross. While you are here, however, you may CONSULT the Library about its more wholesome topics.

There is a noticeable Gap between two particularly odious Books.
human
You look at the chairs
gpt
The Chairs are well-carved with geometric designs.
human
Go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).
human
You go to the north
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtedly--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here. The steel blade of an Axe calls it home.
human
You examine Pig
gpt
The Pig is dead two days. Its Butcher likely fled the castle, dreading your approach. A large Slit travels its bloated Stomach.
human
You examine the stomach
gpt
The Ancients are said to have practiced divination by the Entrails of Beasts. Not being one of the Ancients, you know not what these Vitals fortell.
human
You get Axe
gpt
You remove the fine Axe from the Stump.
human
You hit Pig with Axe
gpt
Well done, brave knight! The pig is dead!
human
You look around
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtedly--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Go north
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtably--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here.
human
You put the spices in Pig
gpt
Perhaps you hope to cure the Meat?
human
You take the stomach
gpt
Let the pig's Vitals be.
human
You give the spices to Fool
gpt
The Fool's eyes cross comically as he regards the handful of spice. Exhausted by the effort, he slumps. He does not seem to want it.
human
You look at the barrel
gpt
A Barrel of fine Wine, nearly emptied by the efforts of the Fool. He lies below, supported by the Saw-Horses which carry the Barrel.
human
You ask Fool about the book
gpt
The Fool belches & says nothing.
human
You ask Fool about wine
gpt
[Author's Note: Wine, the Fruit of the Vine, a Fellow of mine.]
human
You ask Fool about Priest
gpt
The grinning Fool dips his Finger-Tips into his Tankard & sprinkles Wine at you like holy Water.
human
You ask Fool for Tankard
gpt
[Author's Note: The Wine is Mine,] sings the Fool. [Author's Note: The Wine is Mine!]
human
You ask Fool about the gate
gpt
The Fool shudders & says nothing.
human
You ask Fool about Wheel
gpt
The Fool coughs & says nothing.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a handful of spice
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Sheathe blade
gpt
You sheathe your Blade.
human
Go down
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stair.

A dented Box lies in a corner, its sides split open.

You can also see a fine Axe here.
human
Go upward
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Fool slurs some lines of Verse: [Author's Note: Ye Grasse is green, ye Beere is green, a stranger Sighte I ne'er have seen.] You see no Beer in his tankard; naught but the Baron's Wine.
human
You ask Fool about Beer
gpt
The Fool coughs & says nothing.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a handful of spice
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Go east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).
human
Go east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

You can see a handful of spice & a fine Axe here.
human
You get the spice and Axe
gpt
handful of spice: Taken.
fine Axe: Taken.
human
You go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a Perpetuum Mobile here.
human
You drop Axe and the spice
gpt
fine Axe: Dropped.
handful of spice: Dropped.
human
You examine mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimedes. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again
human
You fill mobile with Wine
gpt
(the Wine-Barrel)
You need to be holding the Wine-Barrel before you can put it into something else.
human
You get Wine
gpt
(the Wine-Barrel)
The Barrel is well-supported by Saw-Horses, and you cannot move it.
human
You put the spices in Mobile
gpt
That would surely ruin the valuable Spices.
human
You drop the spice
gpt
Dropped.
human
Go east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.
human
You look at Table
gpt
The long banquet table once groaned under the weight of extravagant Feasts. Now it is bare, its Luster fading.

There is nothing on the long Table.
human
You examine the chairs
gpt
The chairs are carved ornately.
human
You look under Table
gpt
There is naught but Dust under the long Table.
human
You go west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. belie the Corruption of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by Sycophants & Counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
You get Robe
gpt
You separate robe & owner, leaving the Baron bare.
human
You look at Robe
gpt
The red velvet robes of state are stained a deeper red with the blood of the evil sovereign. A small pocket on the right side catches your eye.
human
You examine Pocket
gpt
In the pocket is a golden key.
human
Look around
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the Decrepitude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants & counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
You cut Robe
gpt
What do you want to cut the red robe with?
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a red robe
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You cut Robe with Blade
gpt
(first taking the sacred blade)
You draw your blade.
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying:
a sacred blade
a red robe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You wear Robe
gpt
You lack the rank.
human
You get all
gpt
fine Axe: Taken.
long Table: The long Table is hardly portable.
ornate Chairs: Such posessions would only weigh you down.
human
You go to the west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a handful of spice & a Perpetuum Mobile here.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You examine Baron
gpt
His eyes are wide & unseeing.
human
You look at the eyes
gpt
The Baron's eyes are wide and unseeing.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
the Baron's eyes
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You examine Baron
gpt
His eyes are wide & unseeing.
human
You open eyes
gpt
Even the most evil deserves posthumous Respect.
human
You close the eyes
gpt
You close the Baron's eyes.
human
You go to the north
gpt
An Armory, stocked by the Baron for a seige but unable to protect him from the vengeance of the Almighty. Amidst the Armor, Weaponry &c. stands an archway to the south.

A wooden Lance stands here, propped against a wall.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You get Lance
gpt
To hold that you must have both hands free.
human
Sheath blade
gpt
You sheathe your blade.
human
Go south
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.
human
You examine the hole
gpt
A dark Hole penetrates the desk & proceeds deep into the Stone of the south wall. It is deeper than your Arm is long.
human
You put the symbol in Hole
gpt
(the holy symbol in the Hole in the south wall)
You insert the holy symbol into the hole as far as you can, then draw it out again. No change has occured.
human
You put the symbol on Lance
gpt
(the holy symbol on the wooden Lance)
Putting things upon the wooden Lance would achieve nothing.
human
You put Lance in Hole
gpt
Inserting the lance into the hole as far as you can, you feel the wood catch & hear the faraway grinding of stone. Removing the lance, you find it unchanged.
human
Lift portcullis
gpt
That is hardly portable.
human
You open Portcullis
gpt
Your strength is as great as your faith, but try as you might, you cannot lift the heavy portcullis. Perhaps the nearby Wheel holds the answer.
human
You go west
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.
human
You go to the west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants & counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.

You can also see a fine Axe here.
human
Go west
gpt
From here you may go only east.
human
You read Scroll
gpt
A scroll case made of wood & bearing the sigil of the bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
You read the vellum scroll
gpt
The scroll is made of rich vellum & is rolled up, inside the scroll case.
human
You get vellum Scroll
gpt
You remove the scroll from the case.
human
You read the vellum scroll
gpt
The rich vellum is covered with a flowing hand.

[Author's Note: The bearer of this Notice, one Knight Itinerant, being granted special Dispensation and ordered by Divine Covenant to separate from this World the immortal Soul of par Tiller, Baron of Stesan, his Crimes and Sins having blotted his Name beyond hope of Redemption or Reform, and it being ordered that any and all requested Assistance be rendered this Knight in this sacred Quest, let it be known that to this I set my Stamp and Seal on this day and for Perpetuity, in the name of the most holy God, who has ordained it so,]

The stamp and signature is that of the bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
Go northeast
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.
human
You go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.
human
You show Scroll to Fool
gpt
To which do you refer, the vellum Scroll or the wooden Scroll-Case?
human
You show vellum Scroll to Fool
gpt
The court Fool is unimpressed.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open but empty)
human
You put the vellum in Case
gpt
You  the scroll up and place it in the case.
human
Close Case
gpt
You close the wooden Scroll-Case.
human
You put it in Mobile
gpt
Only the particulate may progress through the wondrous Machine.
human
You examine the machine
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimides. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the workmanship is such that the Machine continues its toil even in the absence of Water to propel it.
human
You look at the spice
gpt
Rare Peppers, and other Spices you cannot identify. Their smell is oriental, exotic.
human
Look around
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

You can see a Perpetuum Mobile here.
human
You get all
gpt
dented Box: Taken.
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying:
a dented Box
a handful of spice
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stairs.
human
Up
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

You can see a Perpetuum Mobile here.
human
Go north
gpt
In this small, walled Yard are the Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtably--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here.
human
You look at Oak
gpt
From little Acorns great Oaks spring. But great Oaks die, or are cut down, & only God remembers what once was.
human
You search it
gpt
The stump is empty.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry andgreat pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north and south.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You look at Wheel
gpt
A heavy wooden wheel, which raises and lowers the Portcullis.
human
Go north
gpt
An Armory, stocked by the Baron for a seige but unable to protect him from the vengeance of the Almighty. Amidst the Armor, Weaponry &c. stands an archway to the south.
human
You ask S,  to go to the south
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry andgreat pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north and south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.
human
You examine Door
gpt
The door is made of fine oak. It stands forbodingly closed.
human
You search Carpet
gpt
You find nothing of interest.

You hear a terrible crashing sound to the east.
human
You search baron
gpt
The Baron's Robe bears a Pocket, in which is a golden key.
human
You examine the tables
gpt
The Tables are carved as the Chairs. Game-Boards are inscribed into many of them, & some bear Dice & other pieces for Gaming.
human
You take all
gpt
Sun-Light: The Sun-Light is ethereal.
Frescoes: The Frescoes are hardly portable.
wooden Chairs: Such posessions would only weigh you down.
wooden Tables: They are much too heavy.
gaming Pieces: A Knight must shun all such unclean Associations.
human
You examine the dice
gpt
The Gaming-Pieces are Dice, Cups, Chess-Men & the like. You are ashamed to remember from childhood the Rules to some of these Games.
human
You look under Desk
gpt
There is naught but Dust under the Writing-Desk.
human
You take all
gpt
Gap in the Library: Such an act smacks of paradox.
oaken Door to the west: The oaken Door to the west is hardly portable. library: There are far too many Books to carry, although you may consult the Library while standing before it.
Writing-Desk: The Writing-Desk is hardly portable.
leather Arm-Chair: It is much too heavy to carry.
human
Consult books
gpt
The meaning of that sentence escapes me.
human
You consult the books about Mobile
gpt
You find a reference to the Perpetuum Mobile (oddly enough) in a Discourse on religious Symbolism. Tho your brothers at the Monastery would follow the Arguments better than you can, the Ideas seem orthodox & you can make out most of what is said.
human
You consult the books about Fool
gpt
The Perpetuum must exist, even if only in the mind of God (so says the Author, for the Work is a century old & so precedes the working Perpetuum) for it realizes the sacred Circle on a cosmic scale. Without the Perpetuum, the Cosmos is a strait Line, slowly declining in vital Force, sinking into Degeneracy & Oblivion. As God is the moral restorative of this vital Force, so is the Perpetuum, which does Work without losing Energy, its physical Restorative. When the vital Force moves back & forth between the Poles of Entropy & Restoration, is the Cosmos realized as a grand Circle.

In a satirical work on the Hangers-On at court, you find the following:

[Author's Note: THE TRAGEDY OF THE FULE: Every Court from Low to High/founds itself upon some Lie/Therein only one, the Fule/may speak true of lordly Misrule. He knows none his Words will heed/nor one comprehend his Deed.]

There is more of this poor Doggerel, but it merely repeats this Theme.
human
You consult the books about Circle
gpt
The Circle makes itself the Symbol of this great Faith, symbolizing all that was and all that will be. Sadly, most of the references you find in the Baron's Library pervert this great Truth by demonstrating methods of subverting and desecrating the true Cycles of God and Nature, life and death.
human
You consult the books about the Metallurgy
gpt
A set of large Volumes describe the art & history of Metallurgy, from Antiquity to the present Era. The base & the nobler Metals are discussed, & their uses. Also Alloys & their means of manufacture are described. In these Works you may be able to find reference to some more specific facet of the Craft.
human
You consult the books about the alchymy
gpt
Several Tomes here are devoted to Alchymy, [Author's Note: Noblest of the Crafts.] By which the baser Metals may be transmuted into Gold, or between themselves. You may be able to find reference to some more specific facet of the Craft.
human
You consult the books about the copper
gpt
[Author's Note: Commonest of the noble Metals, both Artisan and Craftsman, renowned both for its Luster and for the useful Alloys it forms.]
human
You consult the books about silver
gpt
[Author's Note: A valuable and pliable Metal, second in value only to Gold. Projections upon it are common.]

[Author's Note: A valuable and pliable Metal, second in value only to Gold. Projections upon it are common.]
human
You consult the books about the Gold
gpt
[Author's Note: The most coveted of the noble Metals. Empires are built on it, Men die for it, & those who have it hoard it. Through complex transmutations can baser materials, such as Lead, be transformed into this Prince among Metals.]
human
You consult the books about the alloys
gpt
[Author's Note: An alloy such as Bronze or Electrum may be formed by the molten Merging of its several Composites. Some alloys of the nobler metals have mythic Powers--in particular the celebrated alliage sympathique, or sympathetic Alloy.]
human
You consult the books about the sympathetic Alloy
gpt
In a work on alchymic Medicine you find the following:

[Author's Note: The sympathetic Alloy, Rosy-Gold, so named for its Colour. Its dust comprises Powder of Sympathy, or the Weapon-Salve, tho this is but its most convenient Form. Its true power lies in the bonding of its three component Metals.]
human
You consult the books about the Powder
gpt
A work is devoted to the Weapon-Salve, or Powder of Sympathy, which is the dust of the sympathetic Alloy. [Author's Note: The Powder heals when applied not to the Wound but to the Weapon. Most Injuries can it treat, tho it cannot re-bind Soul & Body.]
human
You consult the books about Soul
gpt
The Soul, precious gift of God, that which distinguishes Man from Animal, is given small service in this library. What little there is, chiefly in Manuals devoted to dark and unholy Twistings of God's work, described by phrases unsuitable for repeating here.
human
You read Scroll
gpt
A Scroll-Case made of wood & bearing the Sigil of the Bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
You consult the books about dol nesta
gpt
An Atlas describes the Town of Dol Nesta as "a small mountain village, renowned for the quality of its Soil and the breadth of its monastery's Library.".
human
You consult the books about metal
gpt
[Author's Note: Man was not Man ere he mastered the Metals.] Noble & base alike, they made & do make Civilization. Yet also do they forment Greed, & enable fearsome Instruments of torture & war. Truly, Man must master the Metals, else they will master him.
human
You climb the shelves
gpt
Little is to be achieved by that.
human
You consult the books about Fool
gpt
In a satirical work on the Hangers-On at court, you find the following:

[Author's Note: THE TRAGEDY OF THE FULE: Every Court from Low to High/founds itself upon some Lie/Therein only one, the Fule/may speak true of lordly Misrule. He knows none his Words will heed/nor one comprehend his Deed.]

There is more of this poor Doggerel, but it merely repeats this Theme.
human
You consult the books about symbol
gpt
[Author's Note: Symbols are powerful things, but take pains never to confuse a Symbol with the Object by it signified; this error is the root of much Heresy.] If only the Baron had taken this advice!>>
human
You consult the books about Wine
gpt
There is a Treatise here on Wine-Making, but it seems imprudent of you to consult it.
human
You go up
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Fool's bleary Gaze lights on the Box you carry. [Author's Note: The Lock is the Key -- He! He!] The Fool giggles, hiccoughs, & again regards his Tankard.
human
You look at the Jewels
gpt
Jewels are encased in the walls of this room. Riches encrust the Baron's Seat & golden gleamings come from every Direction. A Show of earthly things, to quail the Unfortunates who in this room must address their cruel Master. The will of a higher Master yet has been done this Day.
human
You show Box to Priest
gpt
The Priest treats your act as an accusation, and quails. [Author's Note: The box? It contains naught but Spices! Here, I have the key...] Reaching into his Robes, he withdraws a small silver Key, which he hurriedly places before you.

The priest speaks again. [Author's Note: The others have left. I remained.] Perhaps he thinks this will earn him Clemency?
human
You take Key
gpt
(the silver key)
Taken.
human
You put the keys in Box
gpt
silver key: Done.
golden key: Done.
human
Close Box
gpt
You close the dented Box.
human
Shake box
gpt
You shake the dented Box. There seems to be something inside.
human
You open Box
gpt
You open the dented Box, revealing a golden key, a silver key & a handful of spice.
human
You show golden Key to Priest
gpt
(first taking the golden key)
[Author's Note: I know it not.]
human
You get all
gpt
Stair-Way(PriestStairway): The Stair-Way(PriestStairway) is hardly portable.
oaken door: The oaken door is hardly portable.
lighted Candles: That would compound Blasphemy upon Blasphemy.
marble Altar: The marble Altar is hardly portable.
human
You put Box on Altar
gpt
(the marble Altar)
That is not a proper Offering.
human
You take all
gpt
Baron's corpse: Your hands are full.
Sun-Light: The Sun-Light is ethereal.
opulent Decorations: The opulent Decorations are hardly portable. tapestries: The tapestries are hardly portable.
bloodstained carpet: The bloodstained carpet is hardly portable.
high Seat: You would perhaps take the Baron's place, as minister of evil?
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a golden key
a dented Box (which is open)
a silver key
a handful of spice
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
You put gold Key in Box
gpt
You put the golden key into the dented Box.
human
You put the corpse on Altar
gpt
(the marble Altar)
Truly barbaric.
human
Search corpse
gpt
The Baron's Robe bears a Pocket, which is empty.
human
You show the corpse to Priest
gpt
The Priest quails at the sight of the dead Baron.
human
You show the corpse to Fool
gpt
[Author's Note: What is a Fool with no Master?]
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
the Baron's corpse
the Baron's eyes
a red robe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Drop symbol
gpt
(the holy symbol)
(first taking the holy symbol off)
To remove the symbol of the faith is to lose divine protection.
human
You remove Scroll
gpt
(the wooden Scroll-Case)
You take off the wooden Scroll-Case.
human
You put the symbol in Case
gpt
(the holy symbol in the wooden Scroll-Case)
There is already something in the case.
human
You get Scroll
gpt
(the wooden Scroll-Case)
You already have that.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (which is open)
a vellum Scroll
human
You get the vellum
gpt
You remove the scroll from the case.
human
You put the symbol in Case
gpt
(the holy symbol in the wooden Scroll-Case)
The scroll case is not the proper container for the holy symbol.
human
You put the symbol in sheath
gpt
(the holy symbol in the leather sheath)
Only your sword may inhabit the sheath.
human
You go west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. belie the Corruption of he who 'til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by Sycophants & Counsellors, now lies untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

You can see a dented Box (in which are a golden key, a silver key & a handful of spice) here.
human
You put the symbol in Box
gpt
(the holy symbol in the dented Box)
That is too large to fit into the Box.
human
You examine the symbol
gpt
(the holy symbol)
A perfect Circle, symbolizing the creation: Heaven above, Earth here & now, the pits below. The unbroken continuity of God, of which Man partakes. The symbol hangs by a light Chain from your neck.
human
Empty Box
gpt
golden key: Dropped.
silver key: Dropped.
handful of spice: Your hands are full.
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a dented Box (which is open)
a handful of spice
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (which is open but empty)
human
You drop Scroll
gpt
To which do you refer, the vellum Scroll or the wooden Scroll-Case?
human
You drop all Scroll
gpt
vellum Scroll: Dropped.
wooden Scroll-Case: Dropped.
human
You put all the keys in Box
gpt
None are available!
human
You get the keys
gpt
silver key: Your hands are full.
golden key: Your hands are full.
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying:
a handful of spice
a dented Box (which is open but empty)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You get all the keys
gpt
silver key: Taken.
golden key: Taken.
human
You put Box in the corpse
gpt
You must be hard pressed indeed to see utility in that.
human
You put Box in Pocket
gpt
That is too large to fit in the pocket.
human
You put the symbol in Pocket
gpt
(the holy symbol in the pocket)
That is too large to fit in the pocket.
human
You look at Fool
gpt
The Baron's Fool has taken to the cups. His Master no longer requires his gambols & rapier Wit. He sprawls beneath a large Wine-Barrel, clutching a Tankard from which he sips. His lincoln Cap is askew. He has not suffered the pangs of Sobriety for some time.
human
You examine Cap
gpt
The Fool's Cap is lincoln Green, and adorned with Bells. It is stained with the Drippings of wine from the Barrel.
human
You ask Fool for Cap
gpt
[Author's Note: This noble Cap has been in my family for generations! My Father was a Fool, his Father before him! And so am I.]
human
You ask Fool for Tankard
gpt
[Author's Note: The Wine is Mine,] sings the Fool. [Author's Note: The Wine is Mine!]
human
You take all
gpt
wooden Scroll-Case: Taken.
vellum Scroll: Taken.
Baron's corpse: Your hands are full.
court Fool: I doubt the court Fool would care for that.
Wine-Barrel: The Barrel is well-supported by Saw-Horses, and you cannot move it.
large Ovens: The large Ovens are hardly portable.
shattered Crockery: You have no use for such things.
human
You put Case in Gap
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).

A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

In this grand Hall do heraldry & great pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.
The Gap is book-shaped.
human
You put Scroll in Gap
gpt
To which do you refer, the vellum Scroll or the wooden Scroll-Case?
human
You put the scroll case in Gap
gpt
The Gap is book-shaped.
human
You put the symbol in Gap
gpt
(the holy symbol in the Gap in the Library)
The Gap is book-shaped.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see the Baron's corpse here.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a vellum Scroll
a wooden Scroll-Case (which is open but empty)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You put the vellum in the scroll case
gpt
You roll the scroll up & place it in the case.
human
You wear the scroll case
gpt
You put on the wooden Scroll-Case.
human
You get all
gpt
Gap in the Library: Such an act smacks of paradox.
oaken door to the west: That is hardly portable.
library: There are far too many Books to carry, although you may consult the Library while standing before it.
Writing-Desk: That is hardly portable.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.
human
Go west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants & counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.
human
You look at Seat
gpt
A most opulent & high Seat, supporting the dastardly Baron as he passes judgement, accomplice to his avarice. No more.
human
You look at the Jewels
gpt
Jewels are encased in the walls of this room. Riches encrust the Baron's Seat & golden gleamings come from every Direction. A Show of earthly things, to quail the Unfortunates who in this room must address their cruel Master. The will of a higher Master yet has been done this Day.
human
You get the Jewels
gpt
They are hardly portable.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
the Baron's corpse
a red robe
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You put Robe on Altar
gpt
(the marble Altar)
Putting things upon the marble Altar would achieve nothing.
human
You go upward
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles & marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
Go west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants & counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne & towards the Sunrise.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.
human
Go west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants & counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne & towards the Sunrise.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
human
You wait awhile
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
Look around
gpt
The glitterings of gold, jewels, tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who tilrecently occupied the throne. A white carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
human
%
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. belie the Corruption of he who 'til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by Sycophants & Counsellors, now lies untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
DeC
gpt
Enter saved game to load: Restore failed.
human
Rec
gpt
Enter saved game to load: Ok.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

In this grand Hall do heraldry andgreat pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north and south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
Go west
gpt
This is room 7. Exits: north, west, up.
human
Go southwest
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
You go to the east
gpt
You can see a copper key here.
human
You go east
gpt
This is room 7. Exits: north, west, up.
human
You go northwest
gpt
On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You go to the southwest
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
You look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Duke does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Duke's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads up, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
Turn hourglass
gpt
You can see a copper key here.

A Seam runs down the northwest wall.
human
You go to the east
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.
human
You go southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
You wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
human
Go north
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied the throne. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
Look around
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied the throne. A white carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
You go east
gpt
This is room 5. Exits: north, east, west.
human
Go north
gpt
This is room 6. Exits: south, east, west.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.

The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
Describe the surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied the throne. A white carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
You go to the north
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber. The

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

This is room 9. Exits: south, west, up.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.

The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.
human
You go to the north
gpt
This is room 6. Exits: south, west.
human
Go west
gpt
This is room 3. Exits: north, south, east, down.
human
You go south
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. bely the pulchitrude of he who til recently occupied the throne. A white carpet, once flanked by sycophants and counselors, now lies nearly untravelled. It leads away from the throne and towards the Sunrise.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.
human
Go north
gpt
This is room 16. Exits: south.
human
You describe your surroundings
gpt
This is room 3. Exits: south, east, up.
human
Go upwards
gpt
This is room 11. Exits: down.
human
Go upward
gpt
This is room 10. Exits: down.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

An Armory, stocked by the Baron for a seige but unable to protect him from the vengeance of the Almighty. Amidst the Armor, Weaponry &c. stands an archway to the south.
human
You look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

An Armory, stocked by the Duke for a seige but unable to shield him from the vengeance of the Almighty. Amidst the Armor, Weaponry &c. stands a spiral staircase leading up into the Battlement. An oaken door leads south.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 9. Exits: south, west, up.
human
Go up
gpt
This is room 13. Exits: down.
human
You go west
gpt
This is room 6. Exits: north, south, east, west.
human
You go north
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

This is room 6. Exits: south, west.
human
You look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 6. Exits: south, west.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 6. Exits: south, east, west.
human
You describe your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 6. Exits: north, south, east, west.
human
Go west
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

This is room 3. Exits: north, south, east, down.
human
You go to the west
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.

This is room 3. Exits: north, south, east, down.
human
You go south
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

In this grand Hall do heraldry andgreat pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north and south.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Duke had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. An oaken door leads west from this cozy room, an archway leads north, and a stairway in one corner spirals upward.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 7. Exits: north, west, up.
human
You go to the north-west
gpt
You can see a copper key here.

A Seam runs down the northwest wall.
human
You go south
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.

In this grand Hall do heraldry andgreat pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north and south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.
human
Go south
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

In this grand Hall do heraldry andgreat pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north and south.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.
human
Go upward
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
Methinks you see exits where there are none.
human
You go up
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 12. Exits: down.
human
Go northwest
gpt
On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass wobbles most violently as the last of the Sand begins to leak out of its top.
human
You turHour-Glass
gpt
If you want to invert the Hour-Glass, you should pick it up first. It is much too heavy to turn in place.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You drop all
gpt
What do you want to drop those things in?
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a red robe
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light and being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.

You can see a red robe here.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Duke had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. An oaken door leads west from this cozy room, an archway leads north, and a stairway in one corner spirals upward.

You can see a red robe here.
human
You go to the north-west
gpt
You can see a copper key here.

A Seam runs down the northwest wall.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass wobbles most violently as the last of the Sand begins to leak out of its top.
human
You get the hourglass
gpt
A Shock goes through your Hand as you touch the Hour-Glass. Recoiling, you nurse your injured Hand until life returns.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Break hourglass
gpt
You deal the Hour-Glass a mighty blow, creating a loudly collapsing Storm of shards which ceases nearly as soon a
human
You touch Wheel
gpt
You touch the wheel and briefly feel a numbing Shock.
human
You look at the lock
gpt
A copper Lock set into the oaken Door to the west.
human
You get Scroll
gpt
You remove the Scroll from its Case.
human
You put Scroll under Door
gpt
The meaning of that sentence escapes me.
human
You consult Books about the Time
gpt
In a book on Meta-Physicks you find a waggish Summary of the Controversy surrounding the nature of Time: [Author's Note: It is said by some that Time travelleth in a great Circle, by others that it maketh a strait Line. The former Description prevaileth, as we art obliged to listen to its Exponents again and again, the latter being content to assert but once.]
human
Consult books about hourglass
gpt
A history of Time-Keeping devotes considerable space to the Hour-Glass, its history occidental and oriental, its usages in Navigation, &c. A book of modern Philosophy waxes more poetic of the Time-Piece, seeing in it a symbol of the linearity of Time, the irretrievability of Moments past.
human
Go downwards
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oaken Door prevents your passage east.

In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to luxury a Tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing Stair.

The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

[Author's Note: So,] says the Priest, devoid of Emotion. [Author's Note: You have come.]
human
You ask Priest about Time
gpt
The Priest avoids your Gaze and does not respond.

The priest speaks again. [Author's Note: The others have left. I remained.] Perhaps he thinks this will earn him Clemency?
human
You ask Fool about the hourglass
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).

Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
The Fool shudders & says nothing.
human
Go east
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, and to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.
human
You go southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted candles and marble altar did bear witness to blasphemous and terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see the Baron's corpse here.
human
Go downwards
gpt
This is room 10. Exits: up.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a red robe
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
Go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile.
human
You examine mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimides. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the Baron seems to have been impressed with it so as to have it realized as a Fountain.
human
You get mobile
gpt
As you strain to lift the heavy Perpetuum, there is a Lurch & a sudden Outpouring of water, which seeps into the Floor. The Gears & Screws continue to spin as before, but the Machine is now dry.Taken.
human
You describe your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. An oaken door leads west from this cozy room, an archway north.
human
You examine the hourglass
gpt
A large & heavy Hour-Glass, containing fine Sand of a reddish Shade. Metal sliding Flaps on the upper & lower Surfaces, controlled by Levers, are used for replenishing the sand. Both flaps lie closed.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a Perpetuum Mobile (churning and empty)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light and being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
Go north
gpt
In this small, walled Yard are the Beasts put to the knife and prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtably--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here. The steel blade of an Axe calls it home.
human
You look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

In this small, walled Yard are the Beasts put to the knife and prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtably--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here. The steel blade of an Axe calls it home.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 16. Exits: south.
human
Go downward
gpt
In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to Luxury a tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing stair.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

You can see a dented Box (in which are a silver key, a golden key & a handful of spice) here.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
Look around
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.
human
You go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted, beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a dented Box (in which are a silver key, a golden key & a handful of spice) here.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry &great pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted, beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a dented Box (in which are a silver key, a golden key & a handful of spice) here.
human
You go to the east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

You can see a Perpetuum Mobile here.
human
You put spice in Mobile
gpt
Only the particulate may progress through the wondrous Machine.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a handful of spice
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You get mobile
gpt
You strain to lift the heavy Machine.
human
You get mobile
gpt
Dropped.
As you strain to lift the heavy Perpetuum, there is a Lurch & a sudden Outpouring of water, which seeps into the Floor. The Gears & Screws continue to spin as before, but the Machine is now dry.Taken.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

You can see a dented Box (in which are a silver key & a golden key) here.
human
You go to the east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

You can see a vellum Scroll & a Perpetuum Mobile here.
human
You look at Mobile
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, and Screws of Archimides. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese and the workmanship is such that the Machine continues its toil even in the absence of Water to propel it.
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying:
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open but empty)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favored Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted, beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a dented Box (in which are a silver key, a golden key & a handful of spice) here.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry &great pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

Has this Place changed since last you were here? The work of some mischevious Spirit, or deceiving Daemon? It is but a slight tugging in your Marrow, yet a worrisome one.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying:
a handful of spice
a red robe
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
You idle away a few moments.
human
You look around
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.

You can see a red robe here.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Duke had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. An oaken door leads west from this cozy room, an archway leads north, and a stairway in one corner spirals upward.

You can see a red robe here.
human
Look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

This is room 7. Exits: north, west, up.
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying nothing.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You open lower flap
gpt
A Shock goes through your Hand as you touch the lower Flap. Recoiling, you nurse your injured Hand until life returns.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You open the upper flap
gpt
A Shock goes through your Hand as you touch the upper Flap. Recoiling, you nurse your injured Hand until life returns.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You pull the lever
gpt
To which do you refer, the upper Lever or the lower Lever?
human
Lower
gpt
A Shock goes through your Hand as you touch the lower Flap. Recoiling, you nurse your injured Hand until life returns.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a Perpetuum Mobile (churning and empty)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light and being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
human
You look around
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west, and an archway leads north.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.
human
You describe your surroundings
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. An oaken door leads west from this cozy room, an archway north.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a Perpetuum Mobile (churning and empty)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light and being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a Perpetuum Mobile (churning and empty)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying:
a Perpetuum Mobile (churning and empty)
human
Look around
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You wipe sword
gpt
Only the Abbot may cleanse your Blade once it has drunk.
human
You consult Books about Lance
gpt
In a Treatise on Weapons you find the following:

[Author's Note: Of types of Weapon there are three: the Pointed, or Stabbing (viz. the Sword or Spear); the Blunted, or Striking (viz. the Mace or Lance); the Bladed, or Slashing (viz. the Axe or oriental Scimitar). Each of the three has its proper Place in the annals of Strateg'ry and War-Fare.]
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order in which he kept his Study! Had he lined his heart with good Works the way he lined his walls with Books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
You examine Desk
gpt
The Writing-Desk is of dark wood. Its flap is open, revealing a dark Hole in the stone slightly wider than your Arm, tho much deeper.
human
You go north
gpt
An Armoury, stocked by the Baron for a siege but unable to protect him from the vengeance of the Almighty. Amidst the Armour, Weaponry &c. stands an archway to the south.
human
You examine Armour
gpt
(the suits of Armour)
Five suits of Chain & Plate stand at attention near one wall. The Suits are new & polished & were not touched by whoever sacked the Weapons. Perhaps the Mail was deemed too heavy & awkward to loot.
human
You examine Weapons
gpt
Divers Weapons, some new but most rusting from disuse. Fear alone kept the Baron's Vassals obedient; shows of force were rarely needed. The Weapons are in disarray, as though someone or someones had ransacked them. Perhaps most of the new Arms were taken in departure.
human
You get Mail
gpt
(the suits of Armour)
You are armoured already.
human
Search mail
gpt
(the suits of Armour)
Nothing is inside the the suits of Armour.
human
Search weapons
gpt
Nothing is concealed in the disarray of Weaponry.
human
You get all
gpt
long Table: The long Table is hardly portable.
ornate Chairs: Such posessions would only weigh you down.
human
You get mobile
gpt
As you strain to lift the heavy Perpetuum, there is a Lurch & a sudden Outpouring of water, which seeps into the Floor. The Gears & Screws continue to spin as before, but the Machine is now dry.
human
Go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.
human
Go south
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a fine Axe here.
human
Go upwards
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a fine Axe here.

The Fool's bleary Gaze lights on the Box you carry. [Author's Note: The Lock is the Key -- He! He!] The Fool giggles, hiccoughs, & again regards his Tankard.
human
You go to the southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oaken Door prevents your going east.

You can see a Perpetuum Mobile here.
human
You examine the lock
gpt
(the dented Box)
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. A small Lock secures it.
human
Unlock Box
gpt
(with the silver key)
You unlock the dented Box.
human
You open Box
gpt
You open the dented Box, revealing a handful of spice.
human
You pray for Priest
gpt
You should offer your Prayer in a more suitable location.
human
You think
gpt
By all means.
human
You kick Door
gpt
(with your bare hands)
You pound on the oaken door, to no avail.
human
You pick the lock
gpt
(the dented Box up)
You already have that.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a silver key
a dented Box (which is open)
a handful of spice
a golden key
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Golden
gpt
dented Box: Dropped.
golden key: Dropped.
human
Look around
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see a golden key, a dented Box (in which is a handful of spice) & a silver key here.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a fine Axe here.
human
You go south
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron still lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A stair leads downward into Darkness.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

You can also see a Perpetuum Mobile & a fine Axe here.
human
You show Pig to Priest
gpt
The Priest shudders at the sight of the butchered Pig.
human
You get in Pig
gpt
The Pig is much smaller than you seem to think it is.
human
You eat Pig
gpt
(first taking the bloated Pig)
To hold that you must have both hands free.
human
You eat Pig
gpt
(first taking the bloated Pig)
It is unclean.
human
You get
gpt
What do you want to get?
human
You look at what you're carrying with you
gpt
You are carrying:
a bloated Pig
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
R.
gpt
What do you want to drop?
human
You look around
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see a bloated Pig, a handful of spice, a golden key, a dented Box (which is empty) & a silver key here.
human
You go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do heraldry & great pomp greet the visitor to this castle. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal portcullis to the east now separates you from the castle threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
You examine Sun
gpt
The rays of the Sun, shining in from the East, seem very inviting after your stay in the Baron's keep.
human
You go south
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
You consult Books about the religion
gpt
Only a few books in the Library touch properly upon true Religion. Even these you suspect the Baron harbored for some darker Purpose.
human
You consult Books about the alchemy
gpt
Several Tomes here are devoted to Alchymy, [Author's Note: Noblest of the Crafts.] By which the baser Metals may be transmuted into Gold, or between themselves. You may be able to find reference to some more specific facet of the Craft.
human
You examine the tables
gpt
The Tables are carved as the Chairs. Game-Boards are inscribed into many of them, and some bear Dice and other pieces for Gaming.
human
You get the Dice
gpt
A Knight must shun all such unclean Associations.
human
You go to the south-west
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see a bloated Pig, a handful of spice, a golden key, a dented Box (which is empty) & a silver key here.
human
Burn door
gpt
This dangerous act would achieve little.
human
You put Key in the lock
gpt
(the golden key in the dented Box)
You put the golden key into the dented Box.
human
You put Key in Door
gpt
(the golden key in the oaken door)
That cannot contain things.
human
You drop Key
gpt
(the golden key)
Dropped.
human
Describe the surroundings
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.

You can see a golden key, a bloated Pig, a handful of spice, a dented Box (which is empty) & a silver key here.
human
You examine Light
gpt
A steel Chain around your neck secures your Symbol.
human
You examine Chain
gpt
(the suit of Chain-Mail)
The sanctified chain mail is light on your body. A white cloth covering bears a circle, the symbol of the faith.
human
Sleep
gpt
Your feeling especially drowsy.
human
Sing
gpt
Your singing is abominable.
human
You jump
gpt
You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.
human
You examine yourself
gpt
You are a strapping cleric, secure in your faith & glowing with the chaste excitement of a task accomplished.
human
Look around
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.

You can see a golden key, a bloated Pig, a handful of spice, a dented Box (which is empty) & a silver key here.
human
Go northeast
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to unpure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

'Tis odd... you cannot but think this Place has changed since last you did look upon it. Nay, it cannot be.
human
You go south
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A solid oak door blocks your way to the west & an archway leads north.

You can see a wooden Lance here.
human
Go south
gpt
From here you may go only east.

You hear a terrible crashing sound to the east.
human
You go southwest
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oaken Door prevents your passage east.
human
You consult Books about the animals
gpt
[Author's Note: Animals are placed under the dominion of Man. Having no Souls, they must share in the Glory to him allotted, aligning themselves with his Plans.] A slight Unorthodoxy, but less heretical than most you find in these Volumes.
human
You consult Books about the religion
gpt
Only a few books in the Library touch properly upon true Religion. Even these you suspect the Baron harbored for some darker Purpose.
human
You consult Books abouthe Rosy-Gold
gpt
The sympathetic Alloy, much celebrated. [Author's Note: It is of four parts of Gold, the same of Copper, & the first part of Silver.]
human
You consult Books about the alloys
gpt
[Author's Note: An alloy such as Bronze or Electrum may be formed by the molten Merging of its several Composites. Some alloys of the nobler metals have mythic Powers--in particular the celebrated alliage sympathique, or sympathetic Alloy.]
human
You consult Books about the electrum
gpt
The alloy of Gold & Silver; four parts of the one to one of the other.
human
You consult Books about perpetual
gpt
You find a reference to the Perpetuum Mobile (oddly enough) in a Discourse on religious Symbolism. Tho your brothers at the Monastery would follow the Arguments better than you can, the Ideas seem orthodox & you can make out most of what is said.

The Perpetuum must exist, even if only in the mind of God (so says the Author, for the Work is a century old & so precedes the working Perpetuum) for it realizes the sacred Circle on a cosmic scale. Without the Perpetuum, the Cosmos is a strait Line, slowly declining in vital Force, sinking into Degeneracy & Oblivion. As God is the moral restorative of this vital Force, so is the Perpetuum, which does Work without losing Energy, its physical Restorative. When the vital Force moves back & forth between the Poles of Entropy & Restoration, is the Cosmos realized as a grand Circle.
human
You consult Books about the ideas
gpt
There is a Work in the Library on the ontological status of the Idea, but it is too technical for you to follow.
human
You consult Books about the magic
gpt
On these shelves are Books & Scrolls devoted to the dark Arts, but you are loath to peruse the evil things.
human
You consult Books about stesan
gpt
Stesan is described in an Atlas as "a flat and mostly agricultural Land, lying between two Lakes."
human
You examine Case
gpt
A Scroll-Case made of wood & bearing the Sigil of the Bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
You consult Books about dol nesta
gpt
An Atlas describes the Town of Dol Nesta as "a small mountain village, renowned for the quality of its Soil and the breadth of its monastery's Library.".
human
You examine Atlas
gpt
The Baron's library is full of heretical Ideas & Assertions most blasphemous. Yet here are also books of Metallurgy, of Alchymy & other useful Arts. A monk from Dol Nesta will need to be sent here to separate Wheat from Chaff, to save that which is useful & to destroy the Dross. While you are here, however, you may CONSULT the Library about its more wholesome topics.

There is a noticable Gap between two particularly odious Books.
human
You consult Books about noble
gpt
[Author's Note: The nobler Metals are Gold, Silver, Copper, Platinum &c. Those with intrinsic Value above & beyond their suitability for use in Tools. It is inevitably the nobler Metals which have been discovered to have alchymic & magical Properties.]
human
You consult Library about the platinum
gpt
[Author's Note: A rare and valuable Metal, much prized for decoration as well as for its alchymic Properties.]
human
You examine Sigil
gpt
Your scroll case bears the Sigil of the Bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
Go southwest
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oak door prevents your going east.
human
You take vellum
gpt
This dangerous act would achieve little.

You remove the scroll from the case.
human
You examine vellum
gpt
The rich vellum is covered with a flowing hand.

[Author's Note: The bearer of this Notice, one Knight Itinerant, being granted special Dispensation & ordered by Divine Covenant to separate from this World the immortal Soul of par Tiller, Baron of Stesan, his Crimes and Sins having blotted his Name beyond hope of Redemption or Reform, & it being ordered that any & all requested Assistance be rendered this Knight in this sacred Quest, let it be known that to this I set my Stamp & Seal on this day & for Perpetuity, in the name of the most holy God, who has ordained it so,]

The stamp & signature is that of the bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
You examine Case
gpt
A scroll case made of wood & bearing the sigil of the bishop of Dol Nesta.
human
Search case
gpt
The wooden Scroll-Case is empty.
human
You examine Candles
gpt
The Candles are old & sit guiltily in pools of their own Wax. They flicker under your Gaze.
human
Close Case
gpt
You close the wooden Scroll-Case.
human
Go downward
gpt
In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to Luxury a tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing stair.

The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

[Author's Note: So,] says the Priest, devoid of Emotion. [Author's Note: You have come.]
human
You look at Priest
gpt
You can sense the fear in his eyes, though your code prevents you from harming him. Fear of the Justice you represent, of the Judgement that will be passed upon him for the evils he did not act to prevent.
human
Go downwards
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stairs.

A dented Box lies in a corner, seemingly kicked there by a thwarted Robber.
human
You get all
gpt
dented Box: Your hands are full.
Stair-Way(StoreStairway): That is hardly portable.
racks of Ham: It is unclean.
strings of Fruit: You hunger not.
sack of Flour: You would scatter Flour everywhere you walked. Foot-Prints in the Flour: The Foot-Prints are not portable.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a vellum Scroll
a sacred blade
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Vellum
gpt
The wooden Scroll-Case is closed.
human
Open Case
gpt
You open the wooden Scroll-Case.
human
You get all
gpt
dented Box: Taken.
racks of Ham: It is unclean.
strings of Fruit: You hunger not.
sack of Flour: You would scatter Flour everywhere you walked. Foot-Prints in the Flour: The Foot-Prints are not portable.
human
Go upwards
gpt
The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Fool's bleary Gaze lights on the Box you carry. [Author's Note: The Lock is the Key -- He! He!] The Fool giggles, hiccoughs, and again regards his Tankard.
human
Go north
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtably--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here. The steel blade of an Axe calls it home.
human
You examine the stump
gpt
From little Acorns great Oaks spring. But great Oaks die, or are cut down, & only God remembers what once was. In this dim reminder of an ancient Tree is embedded a fine Axe.
human
You get all
gpt
bloated Pig: To hold that you must have both hands free.
stump: Its roots are deep, & buried under Stone.
human
Chop oak
gpt
What do you want to chop the stump with?
human
Axe
gpt
I fear the tree was cut down some years ago.
human
You go south
gpt
The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
Go downwards
gpt
On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile.



The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

The Priest, noticing the dented Box in your hand, shies away from you. Yet he says nothing.
human
You show Box to Priest
gpt
The Priest treats your act as an accusation, and quails. [Author's Note: The box? It contains naught but Spices! Here, I have the key...] Reaching into his Robes, he withdraws a small silver Key, which he hurriedly places before you.
human
You look at Box
gpt
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. A small Lock secures it.
human
You chop Door with Axe
gpt
You hack at the door with your axe. Although sturdily built, it is no match for your strength. Slowly, the splinters of wood give way to cracking slabs of the wood, and with a final series of blows you are afforded entry.
human
You go to the east
gpt
Though the Baron never took a wife, 'tis said his Bed was not a night empty. This sinful bed stands before you now, as does the Baron's dresser & Looking-Glass. The door to the west is smashed, the door to the east closed, & a most curious Trap-Door is set into the ground near the bed.

You can see a copper key here.
human
You examine the copper key
gpt
A copper key with eight small teeth.
human
You look aLooking-Glass
gpt
The Looking-Glass is about as tall as you are. You can see yourself in its depths.
human
You get all
gpt
copper key: Your hands are full.
trap door: That is hardly portable.
oaken door to the east: That is hardly portable.
oaken door to the west: That is hardly portable.
Looking-Glass: That is hardly portable.
Bed: That is hardly portable.
human
You chop the trap with Axe
gpt
It is of stone.
human
You chop the east door with Axe
gpt
You hack at the door with your axe. Although sturdily built, it is no match for your strength. Slowly, the splinters of wood give way to cracking slabs of the wood, and with a final series of blows you are afforded entry.
human
You check your inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a fine Axe
a dented Box (which is closed)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
human
Axe
gpt
dented Box: Dropped.
fine Axe: Dropped.
human
Go south
gpt
You can see a fine Axe & a dented Box (which is closed) here.
human
Axe
gpt
dented Box: Taken.
fine Axe: Taken.
human
You go west
gpt
You can see a copper key here.
human
You examine trap
gpt
A stone Trap-Door set into the floor. A small golden Lock is fashioned into it.
human
You go to the west
gpt
The cruel Baron lies at your feet.
human
Go east
gpt
You can see a copper key & a fine Axe here.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a golden key
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & open)
a vellum Scroll
human
You get Key
gpt
(the copper key)
Taken.
human
You go to the east
gpt
You can see a wooden Lance here.
human
You go west
gpt
You can see a fine Axe here.
human
Go northwest
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads southeast.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You examinHour-Glass
gpt
A large & heavy Hour-Glass, containing fine Sand of a reddish Shade. Metal sliding Flaps on the upper & lower Surfaces, controlled by Levers, are used for replenishing the sand. Both flaps lie closed.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Glass of the heavy Timepiece before you seems briefly to ripple, as though 't'were a Wave upon the shore.
human
You open the upper flap
gpt
A Shock goes through your Hand as you touch the upper Flap. Recoiling, you nurse your injured Hand until life returns.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You go northwest
gpt
You can see a fine Axe here.

A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

A small opening in the Stone leads southeast.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass begins to shake.
human
You examine the upper flap
gpt
A sliding metal Flap, covering a Hole in the top of the Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass is shaking most violently, and now begins to slowly rock about.
human
You look at Shelf
gpt
An Outcropping, a small Shelf of rock protruding from the wall.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass is shaking most violently, and now rocks about its Axis.
human
You examine Sand
gpt
To which do you refer, the Sand in the top half of the Hour-Glass or the Sand in the bottom half of the Hour-Glass?
human
You examine Sand in the top
gpt
A contained Cone of fine Sand, red in Colour. Perhaps four measures.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass is shaking most violently, and now rocks about its Axis.
human
You examine Sand in the bottom
gpt
A contained Cone of fine Sand, red in Colour. Perhaps two hundred measures.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass is shaking most violently, and now rocks about its Axis.
human
You examine top Sand
gpt
A contained Cone of fine Sand, red in Colour. Perhaps two measures.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Hour-Glass wobbles most violently as the last of the Sand begins to leak out of its top.
human
You look at top Sand
gpt
A contained Cone of fine Sand, red in Colour. About a measure.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Go southwest
gpt
On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall).

O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A solid oaken Door prevents your passage east.
human
You chop Door with Axe
gpt
You hack at the door with your Axe. Tho' sturdily built, it cannot stand under your strength. Slowly, the splinters of Wood give way to cracking Slabs, and with a final series of Blows you are afforded entry.
human
You descend
gpt
In contrast to the Baron's opulence lurks here the spartan Cell of his corrupt Priest. The only furnishing is a straw Mat, the only concession to luxury a Tapestry which hangs near the upward-climbing Stair.

The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

[Author's Note: So,] says the Priest, devoid of Emotion. [Author's Note: You have come.]
human
Go east
gpt
Though the Baron never took a Wife, 'tis said his bed was not a night empty. This sinful Bed stands before you now, as does the Baron's Dresser & Looking-Glass. The door to the west is smashed, the door to the east closed, & a most curious Trap-Door is set into the ground near the bed.

On the Dresser is a copper key.
human
Go downwards
gpt
The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.

You can also see a silver key here.
human
Go west
gpt
The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
Search corpse
gpt
The Baron's Robe bears a Pocket, in which is a golden key.
human
You get Key
gpt
You already have that.
human
Unlock trap
gpt
(with the golden key)
You unlock the Trap-Door.
human
Open Trap
gpt
You open the Trap-Door.
human
You go downwards
gpt
It is stifling hot in here, yet the flickering yellow glow of the small Furnace does little to light this room. On a long, acid-scarred Work-Bench sit Crucibles, Mortar & Pestle, &c. A stair leads up.

A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.
human
You look at Furnace
gpt
The Furnace is your equal in height, and its Insides glow yellow with concealed heat. It was no doubt used by the Baron to prepare scraps of the base Metals for their transmutation. Material placed in a vent soon runs molten into a stone collecting pan.
human
You look at Bench
gpt
The Baron's Work-Bench reeks of evil. The Crucibles & other Appointments have been used for tasks far darker & less wise than mere Alchymy.

Among the dark clutter of the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.
human
You look at Crucibles
gpt
The Crucibles seem to be uniformly covered inside by a burnt black Crust.
human
You examine Mortar
gpt
The interior of the Mortar & the grinding Surface of the Pestle are covered in a foul blue Substance.
human
Smell substance
gpt
The blue Substance inside the Mortar smells most foul.
human
You look at the pan
gpt
A collecting pan of black and tempered Stone. Its tenure inside the Furnace makes it shimmer with heat. A small Handle on the pan allows you to redeem it from the flames.
human
You look at Book
gpt
The book is one of foul & evil Magic, by an unknown Author. Its open Page is covered with Notes in the Baron's Hand. Tho it burns your eyes to look at its cursed Runes, you feel that by perusing the Baron's last Endeavour you may bring his activities to light.

The Tyrant, it seems, was planning for his inevitable Demise. His study was of an ancient Curse, activated upon its caster's Death for the purpose of Revenge. The Recipe is black & foul, and at the end of is a caution to the would-be Warlock:

[Author's Note: Its close ties to the Caster's physical Blood make this Curse vulnerable to a Weakening or Breaking through methods of Sympathy. The tying of the curse to the Caster's Soul instead of to the Blood would make the Curse un-breakable, but none yet have accomplished this Feat.]
human
You examine the Notes
gpt
The copious Notes are in the Baron's hand, nearly illegible. One Word by its multiple occurances you distinguish as [Author's Note: entrapment].

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
You put the keys in Pan
gpt
golden key: The collecting Pan is for Liquids. The Vent is the entrance to the Furnace.
silver key: The collecting Pan is for Liquids. The Vent is the entrance to the Furnace.
copper key: The collecting Pan is for Liquids. The Vent is the entrance to the Furnace.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
You get Book
gpt
You shut the Tome & pick it up. It seems to numb your Hand, as though its cruel Intentions were oozing out to contain you.
human
You go northwest
gpt
Hardly a room, this, a mere niche in the rock of the castle's Foundation. A small Shelf of rock stands before you, and the secret door through which you entered is to the southeast.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You turn hour glass
gpt
If you want to invert the Hour-Glass, you should pick it up first. It is much too heavy to turn in place.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You touch Book
gpt
The Book is numbing your Hand.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

You can barely feel the Hand which holds the evil Book.
human
You go to the southeast
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
Go upward
gpt
You can see a fine Axe here.

Your Hand becomes as a dead Man's, & your Fingers slip open, dropping the Book upon the floor.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
Go northwest
gpt
On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

Your Hand becomes as a dead Man's, & your Fingers slip open, dropping the Book upon the floor.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
You get Book
gpt
You pick up the Tome. It seems to numb your Hand, as though its cruel Intentions were oozing out to contain you.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Go east
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.



You can see a fine Axe here.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
You put Book in Gap
gpt
You slide the book of foul Spells into the Gap. It fits perfectly, & the Library is whole. Relieved are you to be free of the burden of that terrible, numbing Presence.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
Look around
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order in which he kept his Study! Had he lined his heart with good Works the way he lined his walls with Books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A shattered oak door opens to the west & an archway leads north.

You can see a wooden Lance here.
human
You consult Library about Furnace
gpt
It seems the Baron commissioned a short Work on the operation of a Furnace which was built for his alchymyc Studies. Designed for simplicity, it melts scraps of Metal placed into a Vent and drains the molten result into a collecting Pan below. The source of power for the Furnace is not mentioned in the small Pamphlet, but since it [Author's Note: will melt Lead and even Gold, tho not Iron or Steel], perhaps it is fired by Charcoal.
human
You look at Box
gpt
Battered, dented, the stoic and iron Resistor of an attack on its contents. A small Lock secures it.
human
You consult Library about the curse
gpt
On these shelves are Books & Scrolls devoted to Cursings most foul, but you are loath to peruse the evil Volumes.
human
Go downwards
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.
human
Look around
gpt
It is stifling hot in here, yet the flickering yellow glow of the small Furnace does little to light this room. On a long, acid-scarred Work-Bench sit Crucibles, Mortar & Pestle, &c. A stair leads up.

A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.
human
You look at Furnace
gpt
The Furnace is your equal in height, and its Insides glow yellow with concealed heat. It was no doubt used by the Baron to prepare scraps of the base Metals for their transmutation. Material placed in a vent soon runs molten into a stone collecting pan.
human
Examine vent
gpt
A small vent near the top of the Furnace. It accepts scraps of metal for alchymic experiments.
human
You put all the keys in Vent
gpt
golden key: You place the golden key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
silver key: You place the silver key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
copper key: You place the copper key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
human
You examine Pan
gpt
A collecting pan of black and tempered Stone. Its tenure inside the Furnace makes it shimmer with heat. A small Handle on the pan allows you to redeem it from the flames.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan.
human
You look at metal
gpt
Molten Silver pools at the bottom of the collecting Pan.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan, slightly altering the tint of the existing Contents.
human
You examine metal
gpt
A short Pool of molten Metal mostly fills the collecting Pan. It seems to be Gold, with a rosy Glow.
human
You examine Bench
gpt
The Baron's Work-Bench reeks of evil. The Crucibles & other Appointments have been used for tasks far darker & less wise than mere Alchymy.

Among the dark clutter of the Work-Bench.
human
You look at your surroundings
gpt
It is stifling hot in here, yet the flickering yellow glow of the small Furnace does little to light this room. On a long, acid-scarred Work-Bench sit Crucibles, Mortar & Pestle, &c. A stair leads up.

A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.
human
You look at metal
gpt
A short Pool of molten Metal mostly fills the collecting Pan. It seems to be Gold, with a rosy Glow.

A puff of foul-smelling Smoke emerges from the Furnace.
human
You look at Pan
gpt
A collecting pan of black and tempered Stone. Its tenure inside the Furnace makes it shimmer with heat. A small Handle on the pan allows you to redeem it from the flames.

A short Pool of molten Metal mostly fills the collecting Pan. It seems to be Gold, with a rosy Glow.
human
You get Pan
gpt
The pan is quite hot! You quickly remove your Fingers from the blistering stone.
human
You look at the handle
gpt
A small flat handle of the same stone as the pan.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
Go up
gpt
Though the Baron never took a wife, 'tis said his Bed was not a night empty. This sinful bed stands before you now, as does the Baron's dresser & Looking-Glass. Two shattered doors lead east & west, & a most curious Trap-Door yawns to reveal a stairway as dark as the Baron's soul.

You can see a fine Axe here.
human
You go to the west
gpt
O foul Hypocrite! O whited Sepulchure! In the midst of his debauchery the Baron does see fit to erect himself a Chapel of the faith! Mayhap he thought to take sanctuary here at your approach. 'Tis more likely the lighted Candles & marble Altar did bear witness to blasphemous & terrible Rites in the Baron's lifetime.

A stair in the corner leads down into darkness, an archway northeast. A shattered oak door opens to the east.
human
Go northeast
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, walls covered with pagan frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the reception chamber to the west, the dining hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest, & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.
human
You go to the west
gpt
The glitterings of Gold, Jewels, Tapestries, &c. belie the Corruption of he who 'til recently occupied this high Seat. A white Carpet, once flanked by Sycophants & Counsellors, now lies untravelled. It leads away from the Seat & towards the Sunrise.

Have these Walls shifted? Is the Light different in its attentions upon your Eyes? Nay, for how could this be so? It must be your tiresome Confinement that makes your Memory falter. You had best find a way to quit the Baron's Keep.

The cruel Baron lies at your feet, dyeing the carpet scarlet with his blood.
human
Go east
gpt
If only the Baron had set his soul in the same order he kept his study! Had he lined his heart with good works the way he lined his walls with books, kept his spiritual affairs as tidy as he kept his Writing-Desk, then your grim task need never have been assigned you. But the leather Arm-Chair now awaits a master who will never again occupy it. A shattered oak door opens to the west & an archway leads north.

You can see a wooden Lance here.
human
You put all keys in Vent
gpt
golden key: You place the golden key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
silver key: You place the silver key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
copper key: You place the copper key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.

A puff of foul-smelling Smoke emerges from the Furnace.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan.
human
You wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan, slightly altering the tint of the existing Contents.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.
human
You get evil Book
gpt
You shut the Tome & pick it up. It seems to numb your Hand, as though its cruel Intentions were oozing out to contain you.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

A puff of foul-smelling Smoke emerges from the Furnace.

You can barely feel the Hand which holds the evil Book.
human
You get Pan
gpt
The pan is quite hot! You quickly remove your Fingers from the blistering stone.

Your Hand becomes as a dead Man's, & your Fingers slip open, dropping the Book upon the floor.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
You get Pan
gpt
The pan is quite hot! You quickly remove your Fingers from the blistering stone.
human
You get Book
gpt
You pick up the Tome. It seems to numb your Hand, as though its cruel Intentions were oozing out to contain you.
human
You look at Book
gpt
The book is one of foul & evil Magic, by an unknown Author. Tho closed, still you feel its foul Presence.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.

You can barely feel the Hand which holds the evil Book.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

Your Hand becomes as a dead Man's, & your Fingers slip open, dropping the Book upon the floor.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
You touch the handle
gpt
The handle is quite hot! You quickly remove your Fingers from the blistering stone.

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.
human
You touch Book
gpt
You touch the Book & briefly feel a numbing Shock.
human
You touch the handle
gpt
The handle is quite hot! You quickly remove your Fingers from the blistering stone.
human
You look under Bench
gpt
The Stone beneath the Work-Bench is stained and scarred.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
You check what you're carrying
gpt
You are carrying:
a dented Box (which is closed & locked)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.
human
You go downwards
gpt
It is stifling hot in here, yet the flickering yellow glow of the small Furnace does little to light this room. On a long, acid-scarred Work-Bench sit Crucibles, Mortar & Pestle, &c. A stair leads up.

A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a golden key
a silver key
a copper key
a dented Box (which is open)
a handful of spice
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
You drop the keys
gpt
golden key: Dropped.
silver key: Dropped.
copper key: Dropped.
human
You put Box in Pan
gpt
The collecting Pan is for Liquids. The Vent is the entrance to the Furnace.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
You put Box in Vent
gpt
That is far too large to fit into the Vent on the Furnace.
human
You remove Blade
gpt
(first taking the sacred blade)
You draw your Blade.
human
You get all the keys
gpt
copper key: Your hands are full.
silver key: Your hands are full.
golden key: Your hands are full.
human
Sheath blade
gpt
You sheathe your Blade.
human
You get all the keys
gpt
copper key: Taken.
silver key: Taken.
golden key: Taken.
human
You put all the keys in Vent
gpt
golden key: You place the golden key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
silver key: You place the silver key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
copper key: You place the copper key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan.
human
You get Pan
gpt
The pan is quite hot! You quickly remove your Fingers from the blistering stone.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan, slightly altering the tint of the existing Contents.
human
You get Book
gpt
You shut the Tome & pick it up. It seems to numb your Hand, as though its cruel Intentions were oozing out to contain you.
human
You open Book
gpt
You open the Book to the page at which you first found it & shudder as a wave of Evil washes over you.
human
You read Book
gpt
The book is one of foul & evil Magic, by an unknown Author. Its open Page is covered with Notes in the Baron's Hand. Tho it burns your eyes to look at its cursed Runes, you feel that by perusing the Baron's last Endeavour you may bring his activities to light.

The Tyrant, it seems, was planning for his inevitable Demise. His study was of an ancient Curse, activated upon its caster's Death for the purpose of Revenge. The Recipe is black & foul, and at the end of is a caution to the would-be Warlock:

[Author's Note: Its close ties to the Caster's physical Blood make this Curse vulnerable to a Weakening or Breaking through methods of Sympathy. The tying of the curse to the Caster's Soul instead of to the Blood would make the Curse un-breakable, but none yet have accomplished this Feat.]
human
You get the spice
gpt
Your hands are full.

You can barely feel the Hand which holds the evil Book.
human
Sheath sword
gpt
It is already sheathed.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a Book of evil Magic
a dented Box (which is open but empty)
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Drop box
gpt
Dropped.

Your Hand becomes as a dead Man's, & your Fingers slip open, dropping the Book upon the floor.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
You put the spice in Mortar
gpt
You have no need of the Mortar & Pestle.
human
You put the spice in Pan
gpt
As they are consumed by the bubbling Liquid, the Spices fill the room with their Fragrance. Your Eyes momentarily tear from the pungent Aroma as well as from the heat.
human
You examine Pan
gpt
A collecting pan of black and tempered Stone. Its tenure inside the Furnace makes it shimmer with heat. A small Handle on the pan allows you to redeem it from the flames.

A short Pool of molten Metal mostly fills the collecting Pan. It seems to be Gold, with a rosy Glow.

A puff of foul-smelling Smoke emerges from the Furnace.
human
Go downward
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.
human
You drop all
gpt
golden key: Dropped.
silver key: Dropped.
copper key: Dropped.
dented Box: Dropped.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
Go downward
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a dented Box (which is closed), a copper key, a silver key & a golden key here.
human
You go to the north
gpt
A bloated Pig lies here, its Stomach slit.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here.
human
You drop Pig
gpt
You can see a fine Axe here.



A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see the Baron's corpse, a dented Box (which is closed), a copper key, a silver key & a golden key here.
Dropped.
human
You drop mobile
gpt
You can see a fine Axe here.

On the long Table is a Perpetuum Mobile (which acts as a Water-Fall). As you strain to lift the heavy Perpetuum, there is a Lurch & a sudden Outpouring of water, which seeps into the Floor. The Gears & Screws continue to spin as before, but the Machine is now dry.



You can see a fine Axe here.



A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a bloated Pig, the Baron's corpse, a dented Box (which is closed), a copper key, a silver key & a golden key here.
You gently set the Perpetuum on the floor.
human
Go downwards
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a Perpetuum Mobile, a bloated Pig, the Baron's corpse, a dented Box (which is closed), a copper key, a silver key & a golden key here.
human
You put the keys in Vent
gpt
copper key: Taken.
silver key: Taken.
golden key: Taken.
golden key: You place the golden key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
silver key: You place the silver key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
copper key: You place the copper key into the Vent and quickly take your hand away. An unseen Zephyr swiftly draws the key into the reaches of the Furnace.
human
You open Box
gpt
You open the dented Box, revealing a handful of spice.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan.
human
You get the spice
gpt
Taken.

A molten stream of Metal pours briefly out of the furnace into the collecting Pan, slightly altering the tint of the existing Contents.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.
human
You examine Axe
gpt
A sturdy & well-fashioned Axe. Its rim is crusted with blood.

A puff of foul-smelling Smoke emerges from the Furnace.
human
You dip Axe in metal
gpt
You manage to fit the tip of the Axe into the hellish Furnace & touch it to the pool of Metal. A vibration runs through the Axe as it laps at the liquid Alloy, drawing the metal up to cover the blood-crusted Rim. A few drops fall onto the floor as you remove the Axe from the Furnace.

You hear a Grunt & turn to see that the butchered Pig again lives!
human
You draw the sword
gpt
You draw your blade.

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.
human
You dip Sword in metal
gpt
You place your sword into the hellish Furnace & touch the tip to the pool of Metal. A vibration runs through your Sword as it laps at the liquid Alloy, drawing the metal up the Blade like water into a Root. A few drops fall onto the floor as you remove your sated Blade from the pool.
human
You look at Blade
gpt
Where your blade was red it is now a rosy Gold. The Blood-Stains have absorbed a foreign Metal, which coats the Edge lightly.

A blast of hot Air emerges from the Furnace, as though some Daemon inside were working a Bellows.
human
You look at Axe
gpt
A sturdy & well-fashioned Axe. Where blood once was clings a Shine of rose Gold.
human
You look at Pig
gpt
The Pig is fat & healthy. You see on it no trace of the Axe-Work which once caused it not to be.
human
You look at corpse
gpt
His eyes are wide & unseeing. He wears an expression of resignation & a velvet robe. Strangely, you can no longer find the wounds with which you separated Soul from Body. Yet he does not move; the Spark of life is gone.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a sacred blade
a fine Axe
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)
human
Sheathe blade
gpt
You sheathe your blade.

The Pig gives the Mobile a brief Sniff, then moves onto other Pig matters, uninterested.
human
You drop Axe
gpt
Dropped.

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.
human
You get mobile
gpt
You strain to lift the heavy Perpetuum.
human
You go northwest
gpt
You struggle to bring the Perpetuum through the small opening.

Hardly a room, this, a mere niche in the rock of the castle's Foundation. A small Shelf of rock stands before you, and the secret door through which you entered is to the southeast.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
You struggle to bring the Perpetuum through the small opening.
You struggle to bring the Perpetuum through the small opening.
human
You drop machine
gpt
You gently set the Perpetuum on the floor.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You examine Sand in the top
gpt
A contained Cone of fine Sand, blue in Colour. Perhaps one hundred measures.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You touch the hourglass
gpt
You feel nothing unexpected.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You open the top lever
gpt
You pull the Lever, sliding the Flap open.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You open the bottom lever
gpt
You pull the Lever. The Flap opens & Sand begins to pour out onto the Shelf.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You get bottom Sand
gpt
To do that, you would have to break the Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You get the hourglass
gpt
With great effort you lift the diabolically heavy Hour-Glass, sending Sand spilling onto the stone Shelf. You cannot carry it for long!

The Hour-Glass bleeds Sand, which sifts onto the floor.
human
Turn hourglass
gpt
As you tip the heavy Hour-Glass over in your hands, there is a fatal moment at which the sand slides from one Side to the other, and at which you lose your tenuous Grip. As if in a dream you see the glass fall slowly to the Floor, re-bounding upwards briefly even as the Frame cracks and the Glass parts in ten thousand directions, spilli
human
You get Book
gpt
Your hands are full.

The Pig rubs up against you.
human
Go upward
gpt
human
Go east
gpt
The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
You put Book in Gap
gpt
You slide the book of foul Spells into the Gap. It fits perfectly, & the Library is whole. Relieved are you to be free of the burden of that terrible, numbing Presence.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
Turn wheel
gpt
Every muscle in your body strains, and you feel the grinding of faraway Pulleys as the Portcullis slowly lifts open. At last the heavy Machinery catches, and you relax.
human
Go east
gpt
The sweet Sunlight & soft Earth did never feel so refreshing upon your face & under your feet. The rough hewed stones of the keep seem from the outside to shimmer in the heat. You set down the road, beginning the long journey back to the monastery.

Upon your safe arrival in Dol Nesta, the Bishop himself visits Stesan to oversee the trial and punishment of the corrupt Priest. Astoundingly, he reports that where once stood par Tiller's Keep, there is naught now but a fallow Field, as smooth and empty as a blank Scroll. It is a Mystery which may never see Light, and you think oft upon it. But there are more Adventures here and now than among the forgotten Dead.
human
You drop Axe
gpt
Dropped.

The Pig shuffles to the northwest.
human
You go northwest
gpt
Hardly a room, this, a mere niche in the rock of the castle's Foundation. A small Shelf of rock stands before you, and the secret door through which you entered is to the southeast.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You go northwest
gpt
You struggle to bring the Perpetuum through the small opening.

Hardly a room, this, a mere niche in the rock of the castle's Foundation. A small Shelf of rock stands before you, and the secret door through which you entered is to the southeast.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You drop mobile
gpt
You gently set the Perpetuum on the floor.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Go southeast
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a fine Axe, the Baron's corpse & a dented Box (which is empty) here.
human
You go northwest
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

On the Shelf is an Hour-Glass.

You can also see a Perpetuum Mobile here.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You get the hourglass
gpt
To hold that you must have both hands free.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig sniffs at the ground.
human
Drop box
gpt
Dropped.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You get the hourglass
gpt
With great effort you lift the diabolically heavy Hour-Glass. You cannot carry it for long!

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig rolls & twists on the Ground.
human
You put the hourglass in Box
gpt
That is too large to fit into the Box.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig rubs up against you.

You can barely hold on to the Hour-Glass!
human
You put down the hourglass
gpt
Relieved, you set down the Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig brushes its nose against the cool bell of the Hour-Glass.
human
You examine the hourglass
gpt
A large & heavy Hour-Glass, containing fine Sand of a bluish Shade. Metal sliding Flaps on the upper & lower Surfaces, controlled by Levers, are used for replenishing the sand. Both flaps lie closed.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig shuffles to the southeast.
human
You examine the machine
gpt
This Device you have seen before, in the Library at Dol Nesta. An ingenious Perpetuum Mobile, built of Pipes, Gears, & Screws of Archimides. Whereby the Force exhibited by Water as it pours into a wide Funnel drives the Drawing of that water upward, to fall again through a Spout into the Funnel--on & on, ad infinitum. The Design is that of a certain Portuguese & the workmanship is such that the Machine continues its toil even in the absence of Water to propel it.

Tho the Perpetuum is empty, still turn its Gears & Screws.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You pull lower lever
gpt
You pull the Lever. The Flap opens & Sand begins to pour out onto the floor.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You get top Sand
gpt
You cannot fit your Hand into the Hour-Glass.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You examine the hourglass
gpt
A large & heavy Hour-Glass, containing fine Sand of a bluish Shade. Metal sliding Flaps on the upper & lower Surfaces, controlled by Levers, are used for replenishing the sand. Both flaps lie open.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You roll the hourglass
gpt
Nothing obvious happens.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You get the hourglass
gpt
With great effort you lift the diabolically heavy Hour-Glass, sending Sand spilling onto the stone Floor. You cannot carry it for long!

The Hour-Glass bleeds Sand, which sifts onto the floor.
human
You put hourglass in Mobile
gpt
Straining, you place the Hour-Glass atop the funnel of the Perpetuum.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass. You feel immediately a great sense of relief, as though suddenly awakening from some terrifying Dream.
human
You look around
gpt
Hardly a room, this, a mere niche in the rock of the castle's Foundation. A small Shelf of rock stands before you, and the secret door through which you entered is to the southeast.

Sand is scattered on the floor.

You can also see a dented Box (which is empty) & a Perpetuum Mobile (which supports a large Hour-Glass) here.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass.
human
You get Sand
gpt
(the sand scattered on the floor)
The sand dissolves like Snow under your Touch.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass.
human
You get in mobile
gpt
The Space you would need to do that seems occupied.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass.

The Pig rubs up against you.
human
You get Pig
gpt
I doubt the Pig would care for that.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass.
human
You go to the south-east
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a fine Axe & the Baron's corpse here.

The Pig follows you.
human
Go upwards
gpt
The Pig shuffles to the east.
human
You go east
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
Go north
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

The Pig follows you.
human
Turn wheel
gpt
Every muscle in your body strains, and you feel the grinding of faraway Pulleys as the Portcullis slowly lifts open. At last the heavy Machinery catches, and you relax.

You can barely feel the Hand which holds the evil Book.
human
You go south
gpt
The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
Go east
gpt
The sweet Sunlight & soft Earth did never feel so refreshing upon your face & under your feet. The rough hewed stones of the keep seem from the outside to shimmer in the heat. You set down the road, beginning the long journey back to the monastery. Within an hour, the castle is gone behind you.
human
Smash machine
gpt
A knight of the faith should not make use of violence unless there is no alternative.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig gives the Mobile a brief Sniff, then moves onto other Pig matters, uninterested.
human
You sit on the machine
gpt
The Funnel of the Perpetuum would probably support your weight, but what is to be gained by testing the Hypothesis?

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You get the hourglass
gpt
With great effort you lift the diabolically heavy Hour-Glass. You cannot carry it for long!

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig gives the Mobile a brief Sniff, then moves onto other Pig matters, uninterested.
human
You put the hourglass in the machine
gpt
Straining, you place the Hour-Glass atop the funnel of the Perpetuum.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You open the bottom lever
gpt
You pull the Lever. The Flap opens & Sand begins to pour out into the Perpetuum.

Sand pours into the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, scattering off the closed top of the Hour-Glass & spreading onto the floor.
human
You open the bottom lever
gpt
You pull the Lever. The Flap opens & Sand begins to pour out into the Perpetuum.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass. You feel immediately a great sense of relief, as though suddenly awakening from some terrifying Dream.
human
You go southeast
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a fine Axe, the Baron's corpse & a dented Box (which is empty) here.

The Pig follows you.
human
Go upward
gpt
human
Look around
gpt
Though the Baron never took a wife, 'tis said his Bed was not a night empty. This sinful bed stands before you now, as does the Baron's dresser & Looking-Glass. Two shattered doors lead east & west, & a most curious Trap-Door yawns to reveal a stairway as dark as the Baron's soul.
human
Go downward
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a fine Axe, the Baron's corpse & a dented Box (which is empty) here.
human
Go upwards
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.
human
Go east
gpt
The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a wooden Lance here.
human
Drop book
gpt
Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
You get Pig
gpt
I doubt the Pig would care for that.
human
You go east
gpt
The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a Book of evil Magic & a wooden Lance here.

The Pig follows you.
human
You go to the north
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

The Pig sniffs at the ground.
human
You go to the east
gpt
The sweet Sunlight & soft Earth have never felt so refreshing upon your face & under your feet. The rough hewed stones of the Keep seem from the outside to shimmer in the heat. You set down the road, beginning the long journey back to the Monastery. Within an hour, the castle is gone behind you.
human
You wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig rubs up against you.
human
You get Pig
gpt
I doubt the Pig would care for that.

The Pig sniffs at you.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig shuffles to the north.
human
Go north
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig shuffles to the south.
human
You go south
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

The Pig grunts!
human
You wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig sniffs at you.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig shuffles to the south.
human
Go south
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a Book of evil Magic & a wooden Lance here.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig rolls & twists on the Ground.
human
You wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig studies the open page & begins grunting & gesticulating with one hoof. Briefly the Pig's fur turns a shade of blue. The Pig grunts & continues its nasal Inspection of the area.
human
You eat Pig
gpt
(first taking the Pig)
I doubt the Pig would care for that.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig inhales noisily the scent of the Lance.
human
You wait awhile
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig shuffles to the west.
human
You go to the west
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig sniffs at the ground.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig inhales noisily the scent of the Dresser.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig snuffles along the length of the Bed, rooting under it as if looking for something.
human
You look under Bed
gpt
There is only Dust under the Bed.

The Pig inhales noisily the scent of the Dresser.
human
You examine Dresser
gpt
The wooden Dresser is well-polished but dusty underneath. Its several Drawers contain only irrelevant personal Effects of the Baron.
human
You search Dresser
gpt
There is nothing of interest in the Dresser, & only dust underneath it.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig grunts!
human
You wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig shuffles to the east.
human
Go east
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The orderly appointment of the Books on their several Shelves is marred in one place by a Gap.

You can also see a Book of evil Magic & a wooden Lance here.

The Pig shuffles to the west.
human
You get Book
gpt
You pick up the Tome. It seems to numb your Hand, as though its cruel Intentions were oozing out to contain you.
human
You put Book in Gap
gpt
You slide the book of foul Spells into the Gap. It fits perfectly, & the Library is whole. Relieved are you to be free of the burden of that terrible, numbing Presence.

Life is slow to return to the Hand that held the evil Tome.
human
You go to the west
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.
human
You kick Pig
gpt
This day you have already killed one of God's creatures.

The Pig fogs up the Looking-Glass & jumps back suddenly as it catches a glimpse of itself.
human
East
gpt
The Pig grunts.

The Pig inhales noisily the scent of the Dresser.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig sniffs at the ground.
human
You touch Pig
gpt
A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

You can see no such thing.
human
You go to the west
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.
human
You touch Pig
gpt
The Pig is warm & grunts under your Touch.

The Pig shuffles to the northeast.
human
You go northeast
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig rolls & twists on the Ground.
human
You touch Pig
gpt
The Pig is warm & grunts under your Touch.
human
Go southwest
gpt
The Pig follows you.
human
Descend
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

You can also see a fine Axe, the Baron's corpse & a dented Box (which is empty) here.
human
Go downwards
gpt
The Priest sits on his mat, eyes downturned in submission.
human
You show the corpse to Priest
gpt
The Priest quails at the sight of the dead Baron.
human
Go west
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig shuffles to the east.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
You show Baron to Fool
gpt
[Author's Note: What is a Fool with no Master?]
human
Go east
gpt
You can see a wooden Lance here.

The Pig follows you.
human
Go east
gpt
The sweet Sunlight & soft Earth have never felt so refreshing upon your face & under your feet. The rough hewed stones of the Keep seem from the outside to shimmer in the heat. The Pig briefly follows you as you set down the road, beginning the long journey back to the Monastery. Within an hour, the castle is gone behind you.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig trots out the gate & into the world beyond.
human
You go to the east
gpt
The sweet Sunlight & soft Earth have never felt so refreshing upon your face & under your feet. The rough hewed stones of the Keep seem from the outside to shimmer in the heat. You set down the road, beginning the long journey back to the Monastery. Within an hour, the castle is gone behind you.
human
You look at Pig
gpt
The Pig is fat & healthy. You see on it no trace of the Axe-Work which once caused it not to be.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Go up
gpt
Methinks you see exits where there are none.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
Go southeast
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a fine Axe, the Baron's corpse & a dented Box (which is empty) here.
human
You get the hourglass
gpt
With great effort you lift the diabolically heavy Hour-Glass. You cannot carry it for long!

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You put the hourglass in Mobile
gpt
Straining, you place the Hour-Glass atop the funnel of the Perpetuum.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.
human
You open top Lever
gpt
You pull the Lever, sliding the Flap open.

A trickle of sand falls through the Hour-Glass.

The Pig gives the Mobile a brief Sniff, then moves onto other Pig matters, uninterested.
human
You open bottom Lever
gpt
You pull the Lever. The Flap opens & Sand begins to pour out into the Perpetuum.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass. You feel immediately a great sense of relief, as though suddenly awakening from some terrifying Dream.

The Pig sniffs at you.
human
You go to the south-east
gpt
A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a fine Axe, the Baron's corpse & a dented Box (which is empty) here.

The metal in the collecting Pan bubbles briefly.

The Pig follows you.
human
Go down
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

A small opening in the Stone leads northwest.

On the Work-Bench is a Book of evil Magic.

You can also see a fine Axe, the Baron's corpse & a dented Box (which is empty) here.
human
You touch Pig
gpt
It is warm, and grunts under your Touch.
human
Go northwest
gpt
You can also see a Perpetuum Mobile (which supports a large Hour-Glass) here.

Sand enters the Funnel of the Perpetuum & re-emerges at the Spout, refilling the Hour-Glass.
human
You get Priest
gpt
I doubt the corrupt Priest would care for that.
human
Go upwards
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig sniffs at you.
human
Go west
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig sniffs at the ground.
human
Go east
gpt
The Pig follows you.
human
Down
gpt
The Pig grunts.
human
You ascend
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig sniffs the Altar & moves quickly away, knowing well the scent of Slaughter.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig shuffles to the northeast.
human
You wait for a while
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig sniffs the Altar & moves quickly away, knowing well the scent of Slaughter.
human
Go west
gpt
The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Pig follows you.
human
You go to the north
gpt
The stump of an ancient Oak stands here.

The Pig follows you.
human
Go upward
gpt
Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig sniffs the Fool's Wine but does not imbibe, not caring for its Bouquet.
human
You ask Pig about Fool
gpt
Only Saints & Mad-Men can speak with the Beasts.

The Pig rolls & twists on the Ground.
human
Inventory
gpt
You are carrying:
a holy symbol (glowing with a sacred light & being worn)
a suit of Chain-Mail (being worn)
a leather sheath (being worn)
a sacred blade
a wooden Scroll-Case (being worn & closed)

The Pig sniffs at the Ovens & backs away quickly.
human
You show Symbol to Pig
gpt
(the holy symbol to the Pig)
The Pig, not in the mood for a Light snack, shows little interest in the holy symbol.

The Pig grunts!
human
You show Mail to Pig
gpt
The Pig sniffs your Chain-Mail & wrinkles its Nose in distaste. Coming from a Pig, this leads you to believe a Cleaning of the Armour is past due.

The Pig sniffs at the ground.
human
You show the sheath to Pig
gpt
The Pig shows little interest in the leather Sheath. Presumably, its former owner was no one he knew personally.

The Pig sniffs at you.
human
You show Blade to Pig
gpt
The Pig respectfully backs away from the sacred blade.
human
Show case to Pig
gpt
The Scroll-Case is briefly stuck on the Pig's snout, causing a Moment of amusement but nothing more.

The Pig sniffs at the Ovens & backs away quickly.
human
You show Blade to Fool
gpt
[Author's Note: I see your Point.]
human
You show Symbol to Fool
gpt
(the holy symbol to the court Fool)
[Author's Note: Round & round she goes!]

The Pig sniffs at the Ovens & backs away quickly.
human
You describe your surroundings
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtedly--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here.
human
Wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig squeals with alarm as it sniffs the Stump, then stops suddenly with a confused look as if it had just realized something quite Odd.
human
You hug Pig
gpt
The Pig snorts.

The Pig grunts!
human
You describe your surroundings
gpt
In this small, walled Yard were Beasts put to the knife & prepared for the master's feasting table. Unthinkably--but undoubtedly--were other Prey too destroyed here, to feed the Baron's appetite for sin. There is no hiding place in this small Arena; meat, alive or dead, can escape only south, through the Kitchen.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The stump of an ancient Oak stands here.
human
Go south
gpt
The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Pig follows you.
human
Look around
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Pig sniffs at you.
human
Go downward
gpt
The gloomy Store Room has been recently sacked, though racks of Ham & strings of dried Fruit still hang above your head. A bag of Flour has been ripped open, its contents scattered. Hundreds of white Foot-Prints run frantic around the room & up the Stair.
human
Go up
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.
human
Go east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

The Pig follows you.
human
You go south
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, its walls covered in pagan Frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with Tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the Reception Chamber to the west, the Dining Hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

The Pig follows you.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do Heraldry & great Pomp greet the visitor to this Keep. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal Portcullis to the east now separates you from the threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

The Pig follows you.
human
You hug Pig
gpt
The Pig snorts.

The Pig rolls & twists on the Ground.
human
You hug Pig
gpt
The Pig snorts.

The Pig sniffs at the ground.
human
You hug Pig
gpt
The Pig snorts.

The Pig rubs up against you.
human
You hug Pig
gpt
The Pig snorts.

The Pig shuffles to the north.
human
Go north
gpt
An Armoury, stocked by the Baron for a siege but unable to protect him from the vengeance of the Almighty. Amidst the Armour, Weaponry &c. stands an archway to the south.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig shuffles to the south.
human
You go south
gpt
In this grand Hall do Heraldry & great Pomp greet the visitor to this Keep. Yet a visitor, betrayed, can quickly become a prisoner--a metal Portcullis to the east now separates you from the threshold. You must take your leave instead to the round Chamber that lies westward, or else attend one of the two archways to the north & south.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

The Pig wanders over to the heavy Portcullis & pokes its snout through on of the gaps in the iron Gate. A wistful look comes across the Pig's face, as it ponders a more carefree time in its life, a time redolent with Rolls in cool Mud & games of [Author's Note: Got Your Snout] with its thirty-seven Grand-Children.
human
Turn wheel
gpt
Every muscle in your body strains, and you feel the grinding of faraway Pulleys as the Portcullis slowly lifts open. At last the heavy Machinery catches, and you relax.
human
You hug Pig
gpt
The Pig snorts.

The Pig shuffles to the west.
human
You go west
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, its walls covered in pagan Frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with Tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the Reception Chamber to the west, the Dining Hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig shuffles to the north.
human
You go to the north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

Here a fat Pig wallows.
human
Go north
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Pig rubs up against you.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

The Pig sniffs the Fool's Wine but does not imbibe, not caring for its Bouquet.
human
Go west
gpt
Gluttonous indeed were the the Feasts prepared in this Kitchen while the Baron lived. The huge Ovens now stand cold & unlit, the Crockery smashed & strewn about the floor. The Dining Hall is to the east, & northwards is a small enclosed Yard. A Stair leads downward into darkness.

Here a fat Pig wallows.

The Baron's Fool lies besotted beneath a large Wine-Barrel.

There is a sudden chorus of Gruntings, as the court Fool is interrogated by the cold nose of the Pig.
human
Go east
gpt
On feast days in years & months past, Lords & favoured Thinkers entered this long Hall from the south, to be served by huge platters of exotic repast from the Kitchen to the west. But now the room stands bare, stripped of its Appointments by some fleeing servant. Only the larger items remain--the long Table & the ornate Chairs.

The Pig follows you.
human
You wait
gpt
You idle away a few moments.

The Pig sniffs underneath the Chairs.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do Heraldry & great Pomp greet the visitor to this Keep. The round Chamber lies westward, as always. You may also attend to one of the two archways to the north & south, or, tiring of this false hospitality, depart to the east.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.
human
Go west
gpt
A richly attired Wait Chamber, its walls covered in pagan Frescoes which beckon you to impure thoughts. Chairs arranged near the circular perimeter mingle with Tables for gaming. The chamber becomes the Reception Chamber to the west, the Dining Hall to the north. A small tiled archway leads southwest & to the east is the grand Entry Hall.

A Pig enters from the north.
human
Go east
gpt
In this grand Hall do Heraldry & great Pomp greet the visitor to this Keep. The round Chamber lies westward, as always. You may also attend to one of the two archways to the north & south, or, tiring of this false hospitality, depart to the east.

A wooden Wheel is mounted on the wall, near the Portcullis.

The Pig follows you.