130000 Adventure Cave String type = 08.06.2003 130001 This hero gets double the usual gold from treasure chests. String type = 08.06.2003 130002 This hero's troops can retaliate multiple times per round. String type = 08.06.2003 130003 This hero can cast two spells in the first combat round. String type = 08.06.2003 130004 The melee attacks of this hero's troops remove some enemy abilities. String type = 08.06.2003 130005 This hero has some rare books. String type = 08.06.2003 130006 This hero has some mandrake roots. String type = 08.06.2003 130007 This hero has some tulip bulbs. String type = 08.06.2003 130008 This hero has some toys. String type = 08.06.2003 130009 This hero has some wine. String type = 08.06.2003 130010 This hero has some suits of dog armor. String type = 08.06.2003 130011 This hero has some three-handed swords. String type = 08.06.2003 130012 This hero has some wands that don't work. String type = 08.06.2003 130013 Rogues stole one of your gold mines! String type = 08.06.2003 130014 You find a tunnel leading down into the mountain... Do you explore it or leave? String type = 08.06.2003 130015 Explore String type = 08.06.2003 130016 Leave String type = 08.06.2003 130017 Wary of confining tunnels, you stay outside, in the pleasant open countryside. String type = 08.06.2003 130018 Exploring a tunnel in the mountains, you find a small cave. Do you search it or leave? String type = 08.06.2003 130019 Search String type = 08.06.2003 130020 Leave String type = 08.06.2003 130021 Wary of caves, you leave this one for others to explore. String type = 08.06.2003 130022 There were Troglodytes hiding in the darkness! You are attacked! String type = 08.06.2003 130023 You find two tunnels leading further down... String type = 08.06.2003 130024 You have defeated the Troglodytes! Searching the cave, you find no treasure, but two tunnels leading down... String type = 08.06.2003 130025 You find two tunnels leading down. You also find a signpost... the left tunnel is marked "%Z360," and the right one, "%Z361." String type = 08.06.2003 130026 You find two tunnels leading down. You also find a signpost... but both directions are marked "%Z360." String type = 08.06.2003 130027 You find two tunnels leading down. You also find a signpost, but unfortunately, it has fallen, and it is impossible to tell which way is which. One way is marked "%Z360," the other, "%Z361." String type = 08.06.2003 130028 You find two tunnels leading down. You also find a signpost. Unfortunately, the signpost has fallen, and it is impossible to tell which way is which. Fortunately, both ways are marked the same: "%Z360." String type = 08.06.2003 130029 Do you bravely explore one of the tunnels, or leave? String type = 08.06.2003 130030 Bravely Explore String type = 08.06.2003 130031 Leave String type = 08.06.2003 130032 Wary of such deep tunnels, you make your way back to the friendly light of day. String type = 08.06.2003 130033 Which tunnel do you take, the left one or right one? String type = 08.06.2003 130034 Left String type = 08.06.2003 130035 Left - " String type = 08.06.2003 130036 Left - String type = 08.06.2003 130037 Right String type = 08.06.2003 130038 Right - " String type = 08.06.2003 130039 Right - String type = 08.06.2003 130040 There is a fork in the tunnel. You can go to the left or the right. String type = 08.06.2003 130041 Left String type = 08.06.2003 130042 Right String type = 08.06.2003 130043 There is a fork in the tunnel. You can go to the left or the right. String type = 08.06.2003 130044 Left String type = 08.06.2003 130045 Right String type = 08.06.2003 130046 Rogue Hide-out String type = 08.06.2003 130047 Rogue City String type = 08.06.2003 130048 No Solicitors String type = 08.06.2003 130049 Rogues With Pets String type = 08.06.2003 130050 Frenz String type = 08.06.2003 130051 Wise Man String type = 08.06.2003 130052 No Solicitors String type = 08.06.2003 130053 Sage Retreat String type = 08.06.2003 130054 Beast Master String type = 08.06.2003 130055 Hermit String type = 08.06.2003 130056 Monsters String type = 08.06.2003 130057 Rogues With Pets String type = 08.06.2003 130058 Beast Master String type = 08.06.2003 130059 Death String type = 08.06.2003 130060 Cursed Place String type = 08.06.2003 130061 Dead-End String type = 08.06.2003 130062 Frenz String type = 08.06.2003 130063 Hermit String type = 08.06.2003 130064 Cursed Place String type = 08.06.2003 130065 Ruins String type = 08.06.2003 130066 The tunnel opens into a large cavern. From the debris, you can tell this must once have been a Rogue hide-out. There's no-one here now, though, and nothing of value. String type = 08.06.2003 130067 an inconspicuous little fellow String type = 08.06.2003 130068 a giant brute String type = 08.06.2003 130069 a tall blonde man with the bearing of a nobleman String type = 08.06.2003 130070 a horribly scarred hunchback String type = 08.06.2003 130071 but especially in the middle of the cavern, standing in a circle around two giant rats, who are fighting it out. From the yells of encouragement and clenched coins, you can only guess that the Rogues have bet on the fight. String type = 08.06.2003 130072 in groups of a dozen or so, rolling knucklebones and making wagers. String type = 08.06.2003 130073 gorging themselves on roast... something... and sipping wine. String type = 08.06.2003 130074 arguing in groups about various devious plans, through from your vantage point you can only clearly make out an occasional "poisoned beer," "unguarded mine," or "while they're sleepin'". String type = 08.06.2003 130075 dividing up gold and rubies, and just barely not slitting each others' throats. String type = 08.06.2003 130076 lying in hammocks, sleeping on bundles of rags, and snoring around campfires. No-one seems to be standing guard. String type = 08.06.2003 130077 The rat fight is abandoned - the rats keep fighting anyway though. String type = 08.06.2003 130078 The dice are all snatched up and the wagers pocketed in moments. String type = 08.06.2003 130079 Drumsticks and mugs are hurriedly set down, and one or two chins wiped. String type = 08.06.2003 130080 There are a few muttered rejoinders, then the cave is quiet. String type = 08.06.2003 130081 They leave their treasure where it is - every coin's position committed to memory - and cluster in the middle of the cave. String type = 08.06.2003 130082 rat fights String type = 08.06.2003 130083 gaming String type = 08.06.2003 130084 feast String type = 08.06.2003 130085 scheming String type = 08.06.2003 130086 loot dividing String type = 08.06.2003 130087 rat fight String type = 08.06.2003 130088 dice games String type = 08.06.2003 130089 food String type = 08.06.2003 130090 scheming circles String type = 08.06.2003 130091 treasures String type = 08.06.2003 130092 The tunnel opens into a large cavern, which can only be a hide-out for some Rogues. There are Rogues everywhere, String type = 08.06.2003 130093 As your party approaches, the Rogues look up. %Z361 The leader of the Rogues - %Z364 - steps foward. String type = 08.06.2003 130094 This could be your chance for a quick, merciless victory. String type = 08.06.2003 130095 The leader spits in your face. "How dare you come in here and interrupt our %Z362?" He is furious. It looks like the only way out of a fight is to leave, quickly. String type = 08.06.2003 130096 The leader smiles - but it isn't a very nice smile. "So. I suppose you came to hire our services?" Saying "no" doesn't seem like an option. You can agree peacefully, or attack the Rogues. String type = 08.06.2003 130097 The leader is all smiles. "Hey! Nice to see you!" Yet you can't help noticing his hand is on his hilt. You can talk peacefully with the Rogues, or attack them. String type = 08.06.2003 130098 The leader is all smiles. "Hey! Nice to see you!" It sounds like he means it, but you can't help thinking that this friendliness leaves the Rogues open to a sudden, brutal attack. Do you attack, or are you peaceful? String type = 08.06.2003 130099 Do you slaughter the Rogues as they sleep? String type = 08.06.2003 130100 Talk String type = 08.06.2003 130101 Fight String type = 08.06.2003 130102 Flee String type = 08.06.2003 130103 Agree String type = 08.06.2003 130104 Be nice String type = 08.06.2003 130105 Brutally slaughter them String type = 08.06.2003 130106 The Rogues don't chase you, but they laugh loudly as you flee back to the surface. "Better scorned than dead," you tell your troops. Some of them don't agree. String type = 08.06.2003 130107 The Rogues all relax, and return to their %Z363. The leader remains with your party, to discuss business. String type = 08.06.2003 130108 Do you bravely disturb the Rogues, or leave? String type = 08.06.2003 130109 Bravely disturb them String type = 08.06.2003 130110 Leave String type = 08.06.2003 130111 Letting sleeping dogs lie, you and your party return to the surface. String type = 08.06.2003 130112 You nudge a Rogue awake. He blinks, then nudges a pal, who quickly rouses the rest of the gang. They stare bewilderedly at you, yawning. One of them - %Z364 - steps forward to talk with you. He must be the leader. "Uh, hey there. Let's get down to business, shall we?" String type = 08.06.2003 130113 You cleverly slaughter about half of the Rogues before having to fight the rest. Your troops are pleased. String type = 08.06.2003 130114 You painlessly slaughter about half of the Rogues before having to fight the rest. String type = 08.06.2003 130115 You mercilessly slaughter about half of the Rogues before having to fight the rest. Your troops are disgusted. String type = 08.06.2003 130116 You've defeated the Rogues! After the battle, your troops are checking for survivors, when a figure scurries from behind a rock - it's their leader! You grab him and hold your sword to his throat. "Mercy!" he squeaks. "Let me live, and I'll tell you where to find buried treasure!" You consider the proposition. String type = 08.06.2003 130117 "What's this about treasure?" String type = 08.06.2003 130118 Slit his throat String type = 08.06.2003 130119 One quick motion of the wrist does it. The former Rogue falls to the ground, joining his comrades. Your troops smile at this act of cruelty. String type = 08.06.2003 130120 He was probably lying anyway. You kill him swiftly and cleanly. String type = 08.06.2003 130121 He was probably lying anyway. You quickly slit his throat, then push his body away from you. Your troops look away, uneasy. String type = 08.06.2003 130122 Searching the dead leader's body, you find an artifact! String type = 08.06.2003 130123 The Rogues' leader is grateful. He tells you of a chest buried at the base of an Obelisk... String type = 08.06.2003 130124 After memorizing the information, you release the Rogue, and he quickly scampers away down the tunnel. String type = 08.06.2003 130125 You've defeated the Rogues! After the battle, your troops scoop up all of the Rogues' treasures. String type = 08.06.2003 130126 Your troops gather up all of the treasure the Rogues had been hoarding. String type = 08.06.2003 130127 "Our business is being mercenaries," the leader says. "We join armies and help them fight. Regretably, I'm a little short of spare Rogues at the moment. But give us a day or two and come back, I should have more recruits coming in." String type = 08.06.2003 130128 "We're gold thieves, every one of us," the leader says. "Mostly we deal with gold in mine increments - we steal an entire gold mine at once. It's efficient that way. We'd steal one for you, but... we're kinda busy right now. Come back in a little while, though, we'll work something out." String type = 08.06.2003 130129 "Let's face it, we're a bunch of baddies," the leader says. "What we like best is leaping out of the bushes to attack an unsuspecting hero. Especially when we're paid to do it. We'd work out a contract with you now, but... we're all booked up right now. Come back in a day or two, we'll talk." String type = 08.06.2003 130130 "My gang specializes in picking pockets," the leader says. "We can nick a pair of Angel Wings from a 20th level hero, and be gone before he hits the ground. But, uh... we're kinda busy right now. I can't really divulge the details. But come back in a few days, we'll see what we can get for you." String type = 08.06.2003 130131 At last, the Obelisk the Rogue leader spoke of! Your troops eagerly set to work, digging holes all around the base. After many hours you give up in disgust, having found nothing. Looks like the Rogue was just lying to save his life! String type = 08.06.2003 130132 At last, the Obelisk the Rogue leader spoke of! Your troops find a very obvious "X" scratched in the dirt behind the Obelisk, and begin digging there. After a few hours, they haul up a large treasure chest. It's locked, but you hack off the lid. Inside you find gold and artifacts! The Rogue was telling the truth! String type = 08.06.2003 130133 %Z326 is ambushed by Rogues! They cry out, "This is for %Z327!" String type = 08.06.2003 130134 Rogues stole %Z326's %Z327! String type = 08.06.2003 130135 "I've got Rogues for hire," the leader says. "Great guys, every one of them. They fight, they defend, they wait - they do it all. I hire 'em out at a discount rate. %V620 gold for 15 Rogues." String type = 08.06.2003 130136 I'll take them! String type = 08.06.2003 130137 No thanks String type = 08.06.2003 130138 "Well, if you ever have room in your army, there's nothing like a bunch of Rogues." String type = 08.06.2003 130139 "You got a bargain there. These Rogues will give you 110 percent." String type = 08.06.2003 130140 "Me and my pals here are gold thieves," the leader says. "We'd love to steal a nice juicy gold mine for you. Unfortunately for you, your enemies in these parts aren't doing too well in the gold department. Give 'em some time - they're sure to strike it rich eventually." String type = 08.06.2003 130141 "Buddy, this is your lucky day," the leader says. "Me and my gang are gold mine thieves, and we have a target all picked out. It's a beaut - make you a 1000 gold a day easy. Right now it's flying a %Z360 flag, but we could replace that with yours, for the reasonable price of %V625 gold." String type = 08.06.2003 130142 Deal! String type = 08.06.2003 130143 No thanks String type = 08.06.2003 130144 "Well, if you can't afford it or something... You're really missing out on this opportunity though. It's a gold mine!" String type = 08.06.2003 130145 "Great!" The leader shakes your hand. "We'll have your flag up in no time. Enjoy your new gold mine!" You leave the cave, visions of gold dancing in your head. String type = 08.06.2003 130146 "My gang is into usury, or, as most people call it, loan sharking," the leader says. "Only without the loans. Just the sharking. We beat people up, in other words. For a fair wage. Only... you don't have any enemies we can get at, at the moment. Come back later - we're sure to find a target eventually." String type = 08.06.2003 130147 he String type = 08.06.2003 130148 she String type = 08.06.2003 130149 him String type = 08.06.2003 130150 her String type = 08.06.2003 130151 %Z362's got some troops, but %Z362 doesn't know how to use them. String type = 08.06.2003 130152 %Z362 thinks %Z362's tough, but we could show %Z363 a thing or two. String type = 08.06.2003 130153 A puny nothing of a hero, with maybe a week of troops, tops. Not even. String type = 08.06.2003 130154 Some loser with a few gremlins or something. String type = 08.06.2003 130155 sissy String type = 08.06.2003 130156 peasant String type = 08.06.2003 130157 windmill hero, good for nothing but visiting windmills String type = 08.06.2003 130158 loathsome worm with no social life String type = 08.06.2003 130159 "I got a proposition for you," the leader says. "We know this hero. %Z361. %Z364 Waves the %Z360 flag. And, well, we overheard %Z363 calling you a %Z365. Now, maybe you are, that's not for me to say. But I think you should teach %Z363 a lesson. What say me and some of the boys go over and rough %Z363 up for you? It'll cost you just %V623 gold." String type = 08.06.2003 130160 Do it! String type = 08.06.2003 130161 No thanks String type = 08.06.2003 130162 "Oh. Okay. I guess you really are a %Z365. My mistake. Well, no reason to be mad then, right?" The leader wanders off, shaking his head. String type = 08.06.2003 130163 "We'll beat %Z361 to a pulp for you. You can count on us." You leave the cave, visions of %Z361's bloody corpse dancing through your head. String type = 08.06.2003 130164 "My guys specialize in pockets", the leader says. "We know everything about them. And what we know right now is, that no-one's got much in theirs. But come back some time soon, I'm sure we'll find something in a pocket somewhere." String type = 08.06.2003 130165 "Psst. Buddy," the leader says. "I got some hot merchandise here. Borrowed it from some hero named %Z361. Only I may not return it, if you follow me. You look like you could use an artifact or two. This one's a beaut. '%Z360' they call it. It's barely been touched - %Z361 probably won't even miss it. And it's yours for a cool %V622 gold. How about it?" String type = 08.06.2003 130166 Gimme! String type = 08.06.2003 130167 No thanks String type = 08.06.2003 130168 "Oh, short on cash? Well, I'll try to hold on to this for you, but I can't make any promises." String type = 08.06.2003 130169 The leader fetches the artifact from a sack, and hands it over to you. "Here it is! Best gold you ever spent. This doohickey will work all its tricks for you." You leave the cave, admiring your purchase. String type = 08.06.2003 130170 red String type = 08.06.2003 130171 blue String type = 08.06.2003 130172 tan String type = 08.06.2003 130173 green String type = 08.06.2003 130174 orange String type = 08.06.2003 130175 purple String type = 08.06.2003 130176 teal String type = 08.06.2003 130177 pink String type = 08.06.2003 130178 "Uh, that's not enough gold, pal... What is this, you trying to con me or something? I'm not blind." The leader is not happy. You quickly depart. String type = 08.06.2003 130179 The tunnel opens into a small, bare cave. From the tidiness and lack of material goods, you can tell that this once must have been the home of a hermit. There is no-one here now though. String type = 08.06.2003 130180 The tunnel opens into a small, bare cave, the home of an old man - a hermit. String type = 08.06.2003 130181 wealth String type = 08.06.2003 130182 combat String type = 08.06.2003 130183 magic String type = 08.06.2003 130184 voodoo String type = 08.06.2003 130185 %Z360 "My specialty is %Z362," the hermit says, "and you already seem to know all about it. It's great, isn't it!" The two of you have a pleasant chat about %Z362. Eventually you remember that you have hero stuff to attend to, and excuse yourself. String type = 08.06.2003 130186 %Z360 "I'd like to teach you about %Z362," says the hermit, "but you need time, time to sort through things in your mind. Come back tomorrow." String type = 08.06.2003 130187 %Z360 "My specialty is %Z362," the hermit says. "Would you like me to teach you?" String type = 08.06.2003 130188 %Z360 "Would you like to continue your lessons in %Z362?" the hermit asks. String type = 08.06.2003 130189 Yes String type = 08.06.2003 130190 No String type = 08.06.2003 130191 "No problem!" the hermit says. "Less work for me. Don't hit your head on the way out." String type = 08.06.2003 130192 "Well, if that's the way you want it," the hermit says. "But you really should learn a bit more about %Z362." String type = 08.06.2003 130193 "Wealth is a trick - like stealing someone's nose..." String type = 08.06.2003 130194 "Combat is all about hitting them before they hit you - with shooters, for instance..." String type = 08.06.2003 130195 "Magic is elusive - like an antelope, or a young maiden..." String type = 08.06.2003 130196 "Voodoo is all about playing mind games with people. In fact I - quick, look behind you!" String type = 08.06.2003 130197 "Money is in the mind - near the back and on the left side..." String type = 08.06.2003 130198 "You want a big army - the bigger, the better. The other heroes on your side can just walk around with an imp or two..." String type = 08.06.2003 130199 "Spells are like chocolate - only, inedible, and not as compelling..." String type = 08.06.2003 130200 "Most monsters don't wear shoes. But for those that do, 'your shoelace is untied' is a decent gambit..." String type = 08.06.2003 130201 "Most treasure chests have false bottoms. Just hack the thing open with an axe - you'll find more treasure. Usually you can double your take this way." String type = 08.06.2003 130202 "Whenever they hit you, hit them right back, immediately. None of this waiting for your turn nonsense." String type = 08.06.2003 130203 "You can cast two spells in a row... just cast the first spell twice as fast. This usually just works for me in the first round of combat." String type = 08.06.2003 130204 "Voodoo is all in the head - hitting people on the head, that is. Hit them hard enough, they start seeing things, they forget how to shoot or fly - you name it. Just always aim for the head. It's hard with arrows, but easy with a good melee weapon." String type = 08.06.2003 130205 The hermit paces as he talks. %Z360 He drones on and on. Eventually he yawns and stops. "Well, I think that's as much as you can learn in one day. Come back tomorrow, and I will continue the lesson!" String type = 08.06.2003 130206 The hermit thinks for a bit, then nods to himself and begins talking. %Z360 He talks for hours. Eventually he sees you nodding off, and stops. "That's enough for today. We're almost there - just one more lesson! Come back tomorrow." String type = 08.06.2003 130207 The hermit talks for a while. Finally he shares his secret with you. %Z360 You nod, slowly comprehending. The hermit is right. Armed with this knowledge, you will be a better hero than before. You know it. String type = 08.06.2003 130208 With the lesson complete, the hermit grins madly. "At last, I have taught a student! Now, I can reclaim my rightful place at the head of the table!" And with that, he snaps his fingers, and vanishes! String type = 08.06.2003 130209 The hermit is jubilant. "What teaching! I was amazing! This calls for a celebration!" He gets a flask from behind a rock. "I've been saving this for when I really deserved it!" He takes a swig, swishes it around in his mouth, savors it, and swallows. "Mmmmm...." Suddenly, he turns pale. He drops the flask and clutches his throat, gasping. There is nothing you can do to help him - a few seconds later, he is dead. At least his knowledge lives on in you. You take his body outside, and bury it in front of the cave entrance. String type = 08.06.2003 130210 The hermit is dissatisfied with his teaching. "That was okay... but I think I could do better. What I need is some more lessons myself, from this other hermit I know." He looks around the cave, then smiles. "Nothing to pack! I'm off!" And with that, he pushes past your party, marches up the tunnel, and is gone. String type = 08.06.2003 130211 The hermit grins. "At last, I have taught a student! The curse will finally be lifted!" And sure enough, moments later, the hermit transforms into a troglodyte! The troglodyte tries to leave the cave, but one of your troops accidentally bashes it dead on its way out. String type = 08.06.2003 130212 The hermit looks around his cave, nostalgiac. "I loved this cave. But it's time to move on. Teach one student, and soon they'll be a dozen more, knocking your door down. Well, I'll find me a nice quiet cave somewhere - someplace heroes haven't gotten to yet." He pantomimes tipping a hat to you, and leaves the cave. String type = 08.06.2003 130213 "But wait, there's more!" says the hermit. "Just come back for twelve more lessons, and I can teach you-" He doesn't finish the sentence. Some of your troops had a less than exciting time during the first three days of lessons, and weren't about to sit still for any more. You reprimand them, and make them carry the body outside. Then you search the cave for valuables. There aren't any. String type = 08.06.2003 130214 sleeping, but wakes immediately when you enter his cave. String type = 08.06.2003 130215 engrossed in personal mythology, but drags himself back to the real world to deal with you. String type = 08.06.2003 130216 meditating, but opens one eye to squint at you, then the other eye, then frowns, then smiles and relaxes. String type = 08.06.2003 130217 making pantomime cat's cradle's in the air, but stops immediately when you enter the cave. String type = 08.06.2003 130218 singing wordlessly, and not exactly in tune. He stops when you arrive, and coughs, then smiles weakly. String type = 08.06.2003 130219 doing push-ups. He notices you, but keeps doing push-ups. After a few more he stops, sits up, and catches his breath. He turns to you. String type = 08.06.2003 130220 The hermit is %Z361 "Hello," he says politely. String type = 08.06.2003 130221 The hermit is ill, very ill. String type = 08.06.2003 130222 %Z361 He is in no condition to talk to you, and sadly you have no means of helping him. You leave the cave quietly. String type = 08.06.2003 130223 %Z361 He is in no condition to talk to you, and, while you know First Aid, you do not have sufficient knowledge to cure him. You leave the cave quietly. String type = 08.06.2003 130224 %Z361 Fortunately, you are an Expert at First Aid. Do you use your skills to heal the hermit? String type = 08.06.2003 130225 %Z361 Fortunately, you have a First Aid Tent. Do you use up your Tent to heal the hermit? String type = 08.06.2003 130226 %Z361 Fortunately, you have a Ring of Vitality. Do you use up the Ring to heal the hermit? String type = 08.06.2003 130227 %Z361 Fortunately, you have a Ring of Life. Do you use up the Ring to heal the hermit? String type = 08.06.2003 130228 %Z361 Fortunately, you have a Vial Of Lifeblood. Do you use up the Vial to heal the hermit? String type = 08.06.2003 130229 Heal him String type = 08.06.2003 130230 Leave String type = 08.06.2003 130231 You laugh at the hermit's plight, and leave him to it. Your troops giggle on the way out of the cave. String type = 08.06.2003 130232 You leave the hermit to suffer. It's nothing to do with you. String type = 08.06.2003 130233 You abandon the hermit to his fate. Your troops hang their heads in shame. String type = 08.06.2003 130234 your powers of First Aid String type = 08.06.2003 130235 the powers of your First Aid Tent String type = 08.06.2003 130236 the powers of the Ring Of Vitality String type = 08.06.2003 130237 the powers of the Ring Of Life String type = 08.06.2003 130238 the powers of the Vial Of Lifeblood String type = 08.06.2003 130239 You heal the hermit using %Z361. In practically no time, he's fit as can be. "I'm fit as can be!" he says, to prove it. "And I owe it to you. But all I can offer you is knowledge." String type = 08.06.2003 130240 The hermit is not pleased to see you. He paces. "Don't I have enough troubles?" he says, irritated. "I came to this cave for peace and quiet. "And wouldn't you know it: there%Z361, living in this same complex of caves!" He dismisses you with a wave. String type = 08.06.2003 130241 The hermit is unhappy to see you. But after a moment, he warms up to you. "Well, I suppose things have been peaceful for a while. Maybe I can deal with a visitor." String type = 08.06.2003 130242 The hermit looks at you sadly. "If you would learn my teachings, " he says, "you must first abandon material things, as I have." Then he closes his eyes and pretends you aren't there. You eventually take the hint and leave. String type = 08.06.2003 130243 The hermit is pleased to see you. String type = 08.06.2003 130244 are rogues String type = 08.06.2003 130245 's another hermit String type = 08.06.2003 130246 are monsters String type = 08.06.2003 130247 The tunnel ends in String type = 08.06.2003 130248 %Z360 a small cave. The scorched rocks suggest a battle was fought here once... there is nothing here now though. String type = 08.06.2003 130249 %Z360 a long hall filled with bones and statues. There is nothing of value. String type = 08.06.2003 130250 %Z360 a labyrinth of passages that lead nowhere. String type = 08.06.2003 130251 %Z360 an ancient graveyard. There is nothing here now, not even ghosts. String type = 08.06.2003 130252 %Z360 an abandoned mage's workshop. Nothing of value remains. String type = 08.06.2003 130253 %Z360 a treacherous, swampy cave. You look around briefly, but find nothing. String type = 08.06.2003 130254 %Z360 a fiery pit. Foul beasts lived here once, but they are long gone. String type = 08.06.2003 130255 %Z360 rough-hewn barracks rooms. Perhaps some mercenaries lived here once... but they are all gone now, and have left nothing of value behind. String type = 08.06.2003 130256 The tunnel gets narrower, passing below a high shelf and above a dark ravine. String type = 08.06.2003 130257 The tunnel widens into a hall, littered with bones and statues. String type = 08.06.2003 130258 The tunnel twists and turns, with several forks and dead-ends, but only one continuing path. String type = 08.06.2003 130259 The tunnel descends steeply, and the floor becomes a stone staircase. The stairs end at a broad stone door, etched with unfamiliar writing. String type = 08.06.2003 130260 After walking a bit, you come to a sign in the middle of the tunnel: "Mage's Laboratory. Keep Out." A short distance beyond, the tunnel ends in a tall, rusted door. String type = 08.06.2003 130261 The tunnel grows damp and misty, as it continues downwards. String type = 08.06.2003 130262 The tunnel grows hot and stuffy, as it progresses steeply downwards. String type = 08.06.2003 130263 The tunnel walls become more regular, shored up with beams and masonry. String type = 08.06.2003 130264 %Z360 Do you bravely continue? String type = 08.06.2003 130265 Bravely Continue String type = 08.06.2003 130266 Leave String type = 08.06.2003 130267 You wisely return to the surface, abandoning the dangerous tunnel. String type = 08.06.2003 130268 You continue along the narrow path. Suddenly, Sharpshooters appear both above and below. Without a word, they begin firing on your party! It's a trap! String type = 08.06.2003 130269 You continue exploring the hall. Suddenly your party is set upon by Basilisks! You're so completely unprepared, your entire party is turned to stone before you can react! String type = 08.06.2003 130270 You come to an intersection of several tunnels. As you stand there considering them, you hear what can only be approaching monsters. Hmmm... that heavy breathing and snorting... the single sets of hoofbeats... it must be Minotaurs! String type = 08.06.2003 130271 You cautiously push open the door, and enter a large cave which is obviously a cemetery. There are tombs and gravestones everywhere. Your party explores the cave carefully, looking for any forgotten treasures. Then you here a low wail, like someone crying in the distance. You try to determine what direction it's coming from... only to realize that it's all around you! It is Ghosts, risen from the graves, and they attack! String type = 08.06.2003 130272 The door creaks open, and you creep inside. The door opens into a huge cavern. There are giant cryptic machines, mounds of crates and barrels, and cages of lifeless golems. There are also many Archmages. It is impossible to tell what they were doing when you arrived, for now they are all facing your party, as if you were expected. They are not happy to see you. "Doesn't anybody read anymore? Or are you all volunteering for us to perform experiments on you?" The question must be a rhetorical one, for the Archmages don't wait for an answer. With a gesture, they animate the golems, and prepare to fight! String type = 08.06.2003 130273 The tunnel opens into a large boggy cave, where dark weeds grow around murky pools. The cave is filled with a greenish mist that obscures your vision, so you can only barely make out a group of Liches at the other end of the cave. The Liches evidently have no trouble seeing you and your party - they attack immediately! String type = 08.06.2003 130274 Just when the heat is almost unbearable, the tunnel opens into a brightly lit cave. Looking around, you see that you are at the bottom of a shallow pit, with lava simmering in cracks in the ground around you. Then you notice Magogs peering at you from around rocks - it's a trap! You try to back out, but Familiars spring up through cracks in the rocks and attack! String type = 08.06.2003 130275 The passage opens into a chamber, where many Crusaders are fighting a mock battle. When they see your party, they smile - but not in a friendly way. "At last, a real fight! We'll fight an even battle, one on one! Or are you too scared?" You seriously consider the question, but your troops answer it for you. They march into the chamber. Each stands opposite a Crusader, ready to defend his honor or die trying. They wait, as if for a signal... then, someone somewhere yells, and the battle begins! String type = 08.06.2003 130276 After defeating the String type = 08.06.2003 130277 %Z326 Sharpshooters, you search their cave. You find their stash: 5000 gold and 5 sulfur. String type = 08.06.2003 130278 %Z326 Basilisks, you search the corpses in the hall and find 7000 gold and 5 mercury. String type = 08.06.2003 130279 %Z326 Minotaurs, you search the labyrinth and find a chest with 8000 gold and 5 gems. String type = 08.06.2003 130280 %Z326 Ghosts, you search the cemetery. Eventually you find a cache of treasure: 3000 gold and 5 crystals. String type = 08.06.2003 130281 %Z326 Golems and their masters, you search the laboratory. You find 9000 gold, plus some old, rare books. You take the books - maybe you can sell them at a Magic Shrine... String type = 08.06.2003 130282 %Z326 Liches, you search their damp lair. You find 5000 gold, plus some mandrake growing among the rocks. You uproot some plants and take them with you - maybe you can find a witch to sell them to... String type = 08.06.2003 130283 %Z326 Familiars and Magogs, you search their lair and find 4000 gold, plus some children's toys that the Familiars must have played with. You take the toys with you - maybe you can sell them at a market... String type = 08.06.2003 130284 %Z326 Crusaders, you search their barracks. You find treasure chests holding 5000 gold. You also find a sack of tulip bulbs - perhaps one of the Crusaders had a gardening hobby. You take the bulbs - maybe you can sell them to somebody... String type = 08.06.2003 130285 You try to share the treasure with the Crusaders, but they humbly refuse. "You dishonor us!" they say, winking, before marching off to help some other poor innocents. String type = 08.06.2003 130286 Some crusaders come running down the hall! "We'll save you!" String type = 08.06.2003 130287 More ghosts rise from the ground! String type = 08.06.2003 130288 The mist must be poisonous! String type = 08.06.2003 130289 acolytes String type = 08.06.2003 130290 friars String type = 08.06.2003 130291 high priests String type = 08.06.2003 130292 The %Z361 at the shrine eye your rare books enviously. "We'll give you String type = 08.06.2003 130293 for them," they offer. Do you accept? String type = 08.06.2003 130294 The %Z361 hand over the gold and snatch up the books. String type = 08.06.2003 130295 The %Z361 sadly tear themselves away from the books. String type = 08.06.2003 130296 %Z326%V600 gold%Z327 String type = 08.06.2003 130297 The keeper of the windmill is interested in your tulip bulbs! "I've always wanted a tulip garden to go with the windmill." He offers you String type = 08.06.2003 130298 for all your tulip bulbs (they're very rare in these parts). Do you accept? String type = 08.06.2003 130299 The keeper hands over the gold, and cheerfully accepts the bags of tulip bulbs. String type = 08.06.2003 130300 The keeper is disappointed, but takes a positive outlook. "I'll get my tulips someday." String type = 08.06.2003 130301 The witch wants all of your mandrake roots. "I'll pay String type = 08.06.2003 130302 , and not a whit more." Do you accept? String type = 08.06.2003 130303 The witch snatches the mandrake roots and stuffs them in a pocket. She hands over a purse with the gold. String type = 08.06.2003 130304 "Fool!" says the witch. String type = 08.06.2003 130305 You find you can sell your toys at the town's marketplace, for String type = 08.06.2003 130306 . Do you sell them? String type = 08.06.2003 130307 You hand over the toys, which you'd grown sick of anyway, and pocket the gold. String type = 08.06.2003 130308 You keep the toys - you may need the entertainment, on the long journey ahead. String type = 08.06.2003 130309 The barkeep is interested in your wine. "I'll give you String type = 08.06.2003 130310 for the lot." Do you sell him the wine? String type = 08.06.2003 130311 You give him the wine, and he counts out your gold. "Bring me any more you find," he says, "and I'll give you the same deal." String type = 08.06.2003 130312 "Keep your gold," you say. Your mother didn't raise you to be a wine-merchant! String type = 08.06.2003 130313 One of the soldiers is interested in your dog armor. "I'd like to raise me a dog team one day," he says, "but first I'll need armor. I'll give you String type = 08.06.2003 130314 for all your suits of dog armor." Do you accept? String type = 08.06.2003 130315 You unbundle the suits of dog armor, and the soldier gratefully hands over the gold. String type = 08.06.2003 130316 "A dog team? Thanks for the idea!" you say. The soldier shrugs, and tries not to look disappointed. String type = 08.06.2003 130317 One of the mercenaries would like to buy your three-handed swords. "For my Aunt Betty," he explains. "She collects curios, especially weapons. I'll give you... hmmm... how about... String type = 08.06.2003 130318 for all of them. Deal?" String type = 08.06.2003 130319 The mercenary gleefully pays for the swords. "A few more deals like that, and I can open my own junk shop! I mean, my Aunt Betty can." String type = 08.06.2003 130320 "Think it over," says the mercenary. "Who else is going to want some three-handed swords?" String type = 08.06.2003 130321 As you approach the school, a wizard appears before you. "Those are some nice wands you have there," he says. "Could use re-charging, of course. Useless without charges. Just a pointy stick. Hmph." He reflects. "Tell you what. I'll buy them from you. That'll work out for both of us. I'll give you... say... String type = 08.06.2003 130322 for the set of wands." Do you accept? String type = 08.06.2003 130323 The wizard waves his hand, and the wands float through the air to him. He aims them at a few things, practicing. Then he remembers you. "Oh yes." He hands over the gold, then vanishes. String type = 08.06.2003 130324 The wizard frowns. "You would be wise to rethink the matter. I think the only sane conclusion is that you should sell me the wands." He looks at you, as if expecting a reply, but then vanishes abruptly. String type = 08.06.2003 130325 The tunnel opens into a cave with a pool of swirling water, fed by an underground stream. You and your troops drink from the pool String type = 08.06.2003 130326 %Z326, and feel its magic affect you! For the rest of the week, you have the %Z327 spell on all of your troops. String type = 08.06.2003 130327 %Z326... it is refreshing, but nothing special happens. String type = 08.06.2003 130328 The tunnel opens into a small cave. In the center of the cave, there is a mysterious String type = 08.06.2003 130329 orb, affixed to a pedestal. Peering into the orb, you see String type = 08.06.2003 130330 You leave the cave, pondering this vision. String type = 08.06.2003 130331 %Z326 crystal %Z327 the faces of your enemies. %Z328 String type = 08.06.2003 130332 %Z326 translucent %Z327 the homes of your enemies. %Z328 String type = 08.06.2003 130333 %Z326 smoky %Z327 your friends, shrouded in darkness. %Z328 String type = 08.06.2003 130334 %Z326 milky %Z327 your castles, shrouded in darkness. %Z328 String type = 08.06.2003 130335 The tunnel opens into String type = 08.06.2003 130336 %Z326 what must once have been someone's wine cellar. It's been thoroughly looted, though - there's nothing of value. String type = 08.06.2003 130337 %Z326 what must once have been an armory. It has been plundered many times now - there's nothing left worth taking. String type = 08.06.2003 130338 %Z326 a large cave, which must once have been the site of a huge battle. There are corpses everywhere. The battle must have been years ago, though - you search the skeletons but find nothing of value. String type = 08.06.2003 130339 %Z326 an old disused storeroom. There are stacks of barrels and crates, but they have been plundered already. You find nothing of value. String type = 08.06.2003 130340 %Z326 someone's old wine cellar. Amazingly, though it's clearly been abandoned for ages, no-one has plundered it yet. You find a strongbox with 2000 gold. You also take four bottles of wine - maybe you can sell them to somebody. String type = 08.06.2003 130341 %Z326 what must once have been an armory. It's already been looted, but searching carefully, you find a hidden stash of 1500 gold. You also find two suits of dog armor that apparently no-one deemed worth taking. You take them - who knows, maybe someone will buy them from you. String type = 08.06.2003 130342 %Z326 a large cave, which must once have been the site of a huge battle. There are corpses everywhere. Searching them, you find a pouch with 1000 gold. You also find a couple three-handed swords that are in decent condition. Though you have no use for them, you take them anyway - maybe someone will buy them from you. String type = 08.06.2003 130343 %Z326 an old disused storeroom. There are stacks of barrels and crates, but they have been plundered already. However, searching carefully, you find two old magic wands. They have no charges left, and are useless - but you take them with you anyway. Who knows, maybe some wizard will buy them from you. String type = 08.06.2003 130344 The tunnel opens into a cool, echoey cave. In the middle of the cave is a magical altar. By focusing your magical powers at this altar, you can cast a spell not normally available: String type = 08.06.2003 130345 {Venom} - makes all attacks from your troops poisonous. String type = 08.06.2003 130346 {Fork} - causes your Magic Arrows to strike all enemies String type = 08.06.2003 130347 {AEgis} - doubles the hit points of your first level troops. String type = 08.06.2003 130348 {Ferocity} - gives your troops +2 attack, defense, and speed, per elapsed combat round. String type = 08.06.2003 130349 This spell costs String type = 08.06.2003 130350 spell points and lasts until the end of the week. String type = 08.06.2003 130351 %Z360 %Z361%Z362 Sadly, you do not have enough spell points to cast the spell. After looking around the rest of the cave, you leave. String type = 08.06.2003 130352 %Z360 %Z361%Z362 This spell is already affecting you from a previous casting. Pleased, you admire the altar, then leave the cave. String type = 08.06.2003 130353 %Z360 %Z361%Z362 You have String type = 08.06.2003 130354 spell points. Do you cast the spell, or leave the cave? String type = 08.06.2003 130355 Cast the spell String type = 08.06.2003 130356 Just leave String type = 08.06.2003 130357 Wary of strange magic, you leave the altar alone. String type = 08.06.2003 130358 You cast the strange spell! Then, eager for battle, you leave the cave. String type = 08.06.2003